Humming happily as he ironed the last corner of the tablecloth, Gibbs glanced over at Timmy who was enthralled with Frosty the Snowman currently playing on television. Turning his attention back toward the glimmering red tablecloth he inspected it for any other wrinkles, touched up a few areas then carefully carried it over to the dining room table. Spreading it out he meticulously measured top to bottom and side-to-side. It was important that everything was perfect. Not only for Tim's sake, but also his own. This celebration was one of new beginnings, traditions and most importantly family. Finally satisfied with the tablecloth he collected the new placemats he'd bought and strategically placed them around the table. He was expecting six guests tonight, eight people in total and allowed plenty of space for everyone to sit comfortably. The Palmers were invited, but after some advice from Ducky they decided to visit Jimmy's mother out of state. Sarah, who hadn't been around Tim since the adoption papers were signed, happily agreed to Gibbs' invitation for Christmas Eve, but was flying out to visit Maggie in Texas the next day. When he'd read Sarah's email he made a mental note to ask how Maggie was doing in regards to her drinking. He really hoped her slip up in the basement along with the stress of Tim's regression hadn't caused her to fall further off the wagon. As much as he hated to admit it, Maggie was Tim's biological mother and it was important that she be clean and sober if she wanted to get to know her little boy.
Gibbs couldn't help but laugh as the sound of giggles echoed through the downstairs. After they'd returned home from the mall that morning Tim was given a timeout for his behavior, eventually falling asleep in Gibbs' arms after a much needed cuddle session. He was glad that Timmy appeared in a much better mood than he'd been in earlier and knew he would have good and bad days. In his mind, the good far outweighed the bad and they'd both have to learn to deal with days like today. He also had a sneaking suspicion that Timmy was cutting another tooth that was likely contributing to his orneriness.
Glancing at his watch he was relieved to see that he still had plenty of time to set the table. He was thankful that his mom had taught him when he was younger and in less than ten minutes he stood back to look at his work. "Looking good," he mumbled, reaching over to straighten one of the wine glasses. Now for the finishing touches. With Jackson's surprise visit Gibbs hadn't had the opportunity to tell the others about Timmy's encounter with Santa. Nevertheless, the pictures spoke louder than words and he decided to leave one at each place setting. Grabbing them off the credenza he chuckled as he flipped through the different photos. There wasn't a single shot that Tim didn't appear terrified and he knew the others would get a hearty laugh out of his reaction. Placing a picture at every setting he clucked his tongue and glanced over the table one last time. That's about as good as it's going to get. Time to check on the prime rib.
Walking into the kitchen he grabbed the oven mitts off the counter and flipped on the oven light. Salivating as he opened the oven door and pulled out the rack he basted each end of the roast with the drippings and shoved it back inside. Satisfied it was cooking properly he walked into the family room just as Frosty was ending.
"Hey kiddo it's time to go upstairs and get cleaned up. The others will be here soon."
Tim shook his head, pointing at the television screen. "Mor mor dada!"
Gibbs sighed; "Sorry not right now. Daddy has to get both of us dressed before our guests start arriving." The toddler's shoulders slumped in defeat as Gibbs bent down to pick him up off the floor. "C'mon kiddo, don't be sad, we have a lot of fun things planned for tonight." Tim squealed when Gibbs lightly tickled his belly as they climbed the stairs to the bedroom. The older man decided he would dress first and turned into his bedroom. Plopping the youngster down on the bed he flipped on the television, allowing Tim to watch while he got ready. Everyone had gotten such a thrill out of father and son's matching outfits at the Admiral's funeral he decided to do it again. Removing a pair of black slacks off the hanger he stripped down and put them on. Next came a red dress shirt and black and red striped tie. As he slipped on his black boots he noticed Tim watching him intently and mumbled, "You're next, kiddo." The little guy nodded, laying back against the fluffy pillows as Gibbs went into the bathroom to freshen up. Once he emerged from the bathroom he fixed his tie and said, "How do I look?"
A smiled formed on the toddler's face and he clapped his hands in approval. "Glad you approve, son, now let's get you ready." Turning off the television he gathered Tim in his arms and carried him down the hall to his bedroom. Flipping on the light he lay him down on the changing table and went to his closet. He'd ironed Tim's clothes a few days ago and now grabbed each item off the hanger. "You're going to look so handsome tonight, my boy." Tim gurgled happily around his thumb, lying contently as Gibbs changed his diaper and removed the rest of his clothing. Slipping a white onesie over his head, Gibbs buttoned it at the crotch and slid on his black dress pants. Pulling Tim into a sitting position he guided his arms through each armhole before buttoning up the front. "Well aren't you a chip off the old block."
The only part of their attire that didn't match was their ties. While Gibbs preferred a traditional tie, Tim was adamant on a bow tie so that he could match his Grandpa Ducky. Gibbs knew the older man would get a kick out of seeing his grandson in a bow tie and after all he'd been through the past month it was the least he could do. Since he'd never worn a bow tie before it took him a few minutes to tie it correctly, but eventually he managed and stood back to admire his work. "Looks good to me, if it's not right then we'll certainly hear about it from Grandpa Ducky."
Gibbs slipped socks and shoes on the little guy and stood him up. Tim wobbled back and forth, using his daddy's shoulders to provide stability. "Doing a great job, Timmy. Let me tuck in your shirt and we'll be ready to go back downstairs." After tucking in the toddler's shirt he sat him back down on the changing table. "I almost forgot we have one more thing to put on you." Reaching into the dresser drawer he pulled out a Santa hat and handed it over to Tim. "You want to wear this tonight?" Tim smiled, attempting to put the hat on by himself. Although he gave it a good effort, Gibbs ended up straightening the hat and tucking some of Tim's curls underneath it. "Now you look ready for Christmas!"
XXX
On their way downstairs the doorbell rang causing Tim to giggle in delight. Gibbs smiled, god he loved to see his son happy and hear him laugh. His little boy's smile could light up a room.
"I wonder who it could be."
"Toey?"
"It's possible although your uncle is hardly on time for anything. If I was to make a guess I would say it's probably your grandpas and Abby."
Unlocking and opening the door he exclaimed "Merry Christmas" to Ducky, Jackson and Abby.
A trio of Merry Christmases was returned almost in unison as Gibbs stepped aside to allow the three to enter. "Looks like everyone has their hands full, is there anything else in the car that needs to come inside?"
"Nope, I think we have everything Gibbs." Abby paused, carefully inspecting the Gibbses outfits. "Oh - my- gosh," she shrieked, "You two look so handsome!"
Tim bounced excitedly in his daddy's arm as the three guests removed their coats and hung them in the closet. Ducky was the first to finish and walked toward his grandson. "Gwapa Duck! Mish u!" Tim squealed, extending his arms out as the older man approached. "Ah there's my dear boy. I have missed you too." Still ensconced in Gibbs' arms the toddler leaned over and wrapped his arms around Ducky's neck. Squeezing tightly as he was enveloped in his grandfather's embrace he whispered, "Lub u."
"I love you too, Timothy."
Gibbs allowed them another moment then cleared his throat as he stepped back, breaking the connection between the two of them. "Duck, did you happen to notice what type of tie Timmy is wearing?"
A huge smile appeared on the older man's face, "I most certainly did, Jethro." He reached up and grabbed each end of the bow to straighten it out. "I'm so honored that my grandson has taken a liking to my type of neckwear." He paused to examine every square inch of Tim's outfit, "I do have to say that it suits the lad quite well."
"Well I want you to know that Timmy was adamant on wearing a bow tie just like his Grandpa Ducky. It was so cute to see him make the association when we were shopping for clothes." Gibbs wrapped his arm around Ducky's shoulder, pulling him close, "We're all so glad you're still here with us."
Jack swallowed the lump in his throat as he watched Leroy and Tim interact with Ducky. Although he was relieved his two boys had a father figure close by he couldn't help but feel jealous of Tim's relationship with Ducky. This had been the first time he'd seen the two interact and realized he had a long way to go before or if ever he'd be that close to Tim.
Abby was bubbling over with excitement as she approached and gave Timmy and Gibbs a kiss on the cheek. "I'm excited for our first Christmas as a family. You two look adorable in your matching outfits."
"Thanks Abs, but what are you talking about? We've spent plenty of holidays together as a family."
"I know, I know, but this year is different. The Christmases we've spent together in the past have been because of work. This year we have a new baby around and it's so much fun to experience Christmas through the eyes of a child. Don't you think?"
Jack smiled, pulling his son and grandson in for a hug. "I believe Abby makes a valid point. Leroy I remember your first Christmas like it was yesterday. It's unlikely Tim will remember, but that's why we'll have to take plenty of photos so he can look back and make fun of our hairstyles or the way we dressed."
"If that's the case he's going to have a field day when it comes to my looks."
Ducky cleared his throat, "All of our looks, Abigail. That's the exciting part about looking back on old photos; we get to see how our styles have evolved over time. Some of us have changed quite significantly and others have not." He put his arm around her shoulder; pulling her toward him, "promise me you'll never change...hmm?"
Gibbs clamped his mouth shut upon hearing Ducky's statement. Although Abby had been working through her jealousy, toning down her excitement and acting like a child there were still plenty of things she could work on.
"I hate to break up this little soiree here in the entryway, but if I don't get these Yorkshire puddings in the oven soon they won't be ready for dinner."
"Oh yeah, Duck, almost forgot you'd planned on cooking them here. By the time you're ready to put them in the oven the roast should be ready to come out. It has to sit for about half an hour before I can start cutting it anyway." Gibbs handed Tim over to Abby, "Why don't you three go into the family room and relax, while I help Ducky in the kitchen." Abby motioned to the insulated bag on the floor near her feet, "Could you bring the asparagus I made into the kitchen until we're ready to eat? You can leave it in the bag, it should remain warm for quite some time."
"No problem. If you two could keep Tim occupied that would be..." Gibbs was interrupted when the doorbell rang. He glanced at his watch and huffed, "It's probably too early to be expecting Tony and Ziva." Flinging the door open he heard Sarah exclaim, "Merry Christmas, Agent Gibbs!"
"Merry Christmas to you too, kiddo." Taking the bags out of her hands, he motioned for her to come in. "It's so good to see you again, Sarah. Hey Timmy look who's here, it's your sister." Abby and Tim hadn't quite made it into the family room when the doorbell rang and now the Goth turned around and headed back toward the door.
"We're so glad you could make it tonight, Sarah!" Abby squealed, pulling the younger woman in for a hug."
"Me too. It feels like an eternity since I've seen all of you." She turned toward Gibbs, wrapping her arms around his neck, "Thanks so much for the invitation. I couldn't imagine not seeing my brother on Christmas."
The older man kissed her on the temple, whispering, "Please call me Gibbs and you know you're more than welcome to visit anytime you want."
Ducky stood at the entryway of the kitchen, his hands covered with sticky goo, "Merry Christmas my dear. You'll have to excuse me from not giving you a proper greeting, however if I don't get these puddings in the oven soon they won't be ready for dinner."
"No worries, Doctor Mallard it's looks as though you're recovering well. Penny told me about what happened to you. I'm glad you came through with flying colors."
"There was no other choice, my dear." The older man winked, "It's good to have you here with us."
Gibbs clasped the younger woman on the shoulder, "I don't think you've ever met my father Jack." Sarah shook her head, waving to the elder Gibbs who had made himself comfortable in one of the chairs. "It's nice to meet you, Jack. I remember Tim mentioning the two of you met during a case in your hometown.
Jack smiled, remembering the case that had brought Leroy back to Stillwater, a catalyst in helping repair their relationship. That was of course until recently when Leroy surprised him with baby Tim. "It's nice to meet you too, dear. Your brother is a special person and he'll always have a place in my heart."
"I think I can speak for everyone when I say Tim has and always will have a special place in all our hearts." Gibbs motioned to the little guy; "After you get reacquainted with your brother feel free to make yourself at home and if you need something don't be afraid to ask."
Sarah nodded, scrutinizing Timmy from head to toe, "You've grown so much since I saw you last, squirt." Gently patting him on the knee she continued, "You look so stylish in your Christmas outfit." Tim blushed, flashing his sister a mostly toothless grin, while practically falling into her arms when she held them out. She peppered his face with kisses, mumbling, "I missed you so much, kid." The toddler giggled and squirmed as Sarah carried him into the family room, stopping to admire the Christmas tree. Noticing several ornaments that looked as if Tim had made them, she clutched one between her fingertips; pulling it closer to see. "Did you make all these pretty decorations, kiddo?"
"Yesh," Tim responded, pointing to another handmade ornament.
"Wow you did such a great job. Did your daddy help you?"
Timmy nodded enthusiastically, "Lub muh dada."
"He's a good daddy, isn't he?"
"Yesh."
Although there was never a doubt in her mind, Sarah was relieved that Tim was finally receiving the type of childhood he should have had decades ago. From only the few minutes she'd been there she could already tell that Gibbs had kept his promise to be the best father Tim could ever have. However, as happy as she was that Tim was still around as a baby, she missed her older brother terribly. A day hadn't passed where she didn't think about him or all the fun times they had together.
The sound of the doorbell roused Sarah from her reverie. "Ooh who do you think that is Timmy?"
"Toey n Zeba!"
"Wow - does he get this excited every time they arrive?"
"Yep, he loves being around the two of them; especially his Uncle Tony." Abby replied, heading toward the door. Gibbs emerged from the kitchen with an apron hung around his neck as she opened the door.
"Merry Christmas!" Tony and Ziva roared, each giving Abby a quick hug before continuing into the house.
"Nice apron, Boss." Tony chuckled, dropping his bags on the floor so he could remove his coat. Tim, Sarah and Jackson gathered in the entryway, ready to exchange pleasantries with the last two arrivals. Following a brief round of hugs, Gibbs and Ziva retreated to the kitchen with Ducky to finish preparing the meal while the others congregated in the family room.
Tim was perched comfortably in his sister's lap when he reached over and tugged on Tony's shirt. "Toey?"
"What's up, kiddo?"
"Pway howsey?"
Tony huffed, "Sorry buddy not right now. Maybe later on after we finish dinner. Besides I don't think your daddy would be too happy if we ruined any of your clothes."
The toddler's bottom lip quivered as tears threatened to fall from his eyes. Sarah protectively wrapped her arms around Tim, pulling him back against her chest. Leaning down she whispered in his ear, "I can't wait to see you play horsey with your Uncle Tony, but it's going to be time to eat soon. How about we ask Abby if she'll take some pictures of us?" Tim sniffled, attempting to turn his body to see Sarah's face. "C'mon it'll be fun. I need some new pictures of the both of us."
"Kay." The youngster sighed dejectedly as Sarah wiped the tears from his eyes. She picked her phone up off the table and motioned in Abby's direction. "Do you mind taking a few shots of me and my baby bro?"
"It would be my pleasure." Abby responded, standing up to take the phone from her. "All right - how about the two of you cuddle together." Tony quickly straightened Tim's bow tie while Sarah turned the toddler to face the camera. She rested her chin on top of Tim's head and they both smiled as Abby took several shots of the both of them. "Aw these are adorable!" Abby gushed as she returned the phone to Sarah.
"Great, now I can save one of these as my wallpaper and whenever I look at my phone I'll get to see Timmy." She flipped through the photos, each one more adorable than the next before deciding on a winner.
"Sarah do you mind if I steal Tim for a couple of pictures?"
"Of course not, Tony. However, before the end of the night I need a picture of you two playing..."
Tony held his hand up to cut her off, "Probably not a good idea to say that in front of..." he cocked his head in Timmy's direction, adding, "I think we've distracted him from that - for now."
"Yeah you're probably right. I forgot that kids are relentless when it comes to something they want."
"You'll learn," Tony chuckled, lifting Tim out of Sarah's lap and into his. "Hey buddy, Uncle Tony wants to take a few pictures with you. Is that okay?" Tim sank back against his chest as Tony wrapped his arms around the youngster's body. Sarah and Abby took several shots of the both of them in different positions until Tim had had enough.
"My turn!" Abby shrieked, plucking Tim out of Tony's lap. Jack startled as Abby's shrill voice echoed throughout the family room. Leaning over he whispered to Tony, "Abby sure has a set of lungs on her, doesn't she?"
"Oh yeah, unfortunately she doesn't seem to realize the effect it has on the rest of us. After working with her for the past decade we've all become quite accustomed to it."
Sarah snapped several photos of the pair posing in front of the Christmas tree. They'd just finished when Gibbs appeared from the kitchen, "I hope you're taking plenty of good photos for Timmy's scrapbook. I'd like to get a few group shots and of course a few of Timmy, Jet and me after dinner. Speaking of which, dinner will be ready in a few minutes."
"It smells delicious Agent Gibbs. I can't wait to try everything."
Gibbs chuckled, gesturing toward Tony, "You have to watch out for this guy. He'll be back for seconds, thirds and possibly even fourths before any of us finish one helping."
"Hey!"
Everyone laughed at Gibbs' comment, knowing that what he said was true. DiNozzo was known to inhale a meal before all of them were even seated at the table. Suddenly Ducky called out from the kitchen, "I think the prime rib is ready to be cut, Jethro."
"Thanks, Duck. Abs and Tony would you two take everyone's drink order and work on those together. There's red and white wine in the fridge, although the red will probably complement the prime rib better. In addition there's coffee, tea, water and I believe even some soda. The wine glasses are on the dining room table, but I have a little surprise that I want everyone to see at the same time. If you could pop the cork on the wine bottles we can pour them once we're ready to be seated. Oh, I also need one of you to make a bottle for Timmy."
"No problem, Boss."
"Who wants to take Timmy?" Abby asked, looking back and forth between Sarah and Jack. The younger woman signaled in Jack's direction, "He hasn't had an opportunity to hold him tonight."
Jack took a deep breath as he glanced over at his son. Gibbs knew the older man was seeking permission and he nodded his approval. He was unsure of Tim's reaction to the situation, but because he hadn't openly objected that was a good sign. Abby had been watching the exchange between the two Gibbses and tickled Tim's tummy, "You want to sit with your Grandpa Jack for a few minutes?"
Tim hesitated at first, looking to his daddy for reassurance. Gibbs stepped closer, whispering in the toddler's ear, "You don't have to sit with Grandpa Jack if you don't want to. However, I think you do and that's okay too, son." Tim's eyes flickered toward the older man and he slowly reached out his arms. Jack flashed a thousand watt smile as he grabbed hold of Timmy, pulling him tight against his chest. The older man savored the moment he'd been waiting for, inhaling Tim's baby scent as he adjusted him in his lap. Gibbs felt a sense of pride overwhelm him as his baby took one step closer toward forgiveness. He watched the pair for a moment, making sure Tim wasn't going to freak out before retreating to the kitchen to finish dinner.
"How about we take a few pictures of the two of you?"
"That would be great, Sarah, thanks."
By the time Sarah had finished taking pictures of Jack and Timmy it was time to eat. Gibbs returned to the family room, gathered the toddler in his arms and motioned for Jack and Sarah to follow him.
"What is the big surprise you have for everybody, Gibbs?"
"Ah I can't tell you that Zeever otherwise it wouldn't be a surprise." He pointed to the stack of plates and continued, "I decided it would be easier to make our plates out here in the kitchen and eat in the dining room. Thank you all for bringing a dish to pass; now let's dig in before it gets cold." Tony was salivating as he impolitely reached around Sarah for a plate. Gibbs noticed his loutishness and gently smacked him on the back of his head. "Were you raised in a barn, DiNozzo? It's always ladies first."
Tony blushed, smiling sheepishly as he backed away from the table. "I'm sorry Sarah; I must have been raised in a barn."
"Back of the line, DiNozzo."
"Fine," The younger man growled, resigned to the fact that Gibbs would make him wait until everyone had been through the line.
Once they'd filled their plates Gibbs led the way into the dining room, "Take a seat wherever you'd like, however I ask you to save a spot next to Timmy for me." As they were taking their seats they noticed the pictures of Timmy with Santa. Everyone laughed as they closely examined the photos of a very unhappy Tim posing with Santa.
"The look on Tim's face is priceless!"
"Wow these are great!"
"It is very clear that he is not happy about meeting Santa."
Gibbs shook his head as he deposited Tim in the highchair and snapped in the tray. "He was excited to meet him, but when it was finally our turn he was terrified. We hit the mall early this morning to pick up a few last minute gifts; Timmy was satisfied saying hello to Santa from afar."
The photos varied slightly and they all passed them around the table as they started eating. Sarah held up one of the photos, "I think I remember seeing a picture similar to this one when Tim was a baby." She paused, "I mean during his first childhood. He looks very similar to how he does now. When I'm down in Texas I'll take a look through all our old photos and see if I can find them."
"That reminds me, Sarah, I have some photos for Maggie and Penny as well. I'll give them to you before you leave."
"I'm sure they'll get a kick out of them as much as we have. That's very nice of you to think of them, Gibbs."
"It's the least I could do." Gibbs had just finished cutting Timmy's dinner and placed the plate in front of him, "Time to eat, sweetie." The toddler smacked his lips together as he picked up a tiny piece of prime rib and stuffed it in his mouth.
"Is it good?"
Timmy responded by immediately inserting another piece in his mouth.
"I'll take that as a yes."
"Mmmmmmmm!" Tony exclaimed, wiggling in happiness as he stuck a piece of prime rib in his own mouth. Mumbling, he add, "My god, Boss, I think you need to quit NCIS and start your own restaurant. The roast has a perfect blend of seasoning to titillate your taste buds."
"Tony is right, Leroy. I knew you could cook mouth-watering steaks, but you took this prime rib to a whole other level."
Ziva nodded, "They are correct, Gibbs. I have never tasted prime rib this succulent before." She patted Ducky on the shoulder, "I must get the recipe for your Yorkshire pudding. It is a wonderful complement to the roast. Everything is delicious."
While they ate they talked about sledding, making a snowman and Timmy's first attempt at a snow angel. Abby explained her failed effort at getting Jet to wear boots, which garnered a few laughs along with Tim's close call with eating yellow snow. Sarah listened carefully, absorbing all the information so that she could tell her mom and Penny about her brother's escapades. Overall, they had a nice time, enjoying each other's company and thankful they were all together. After they'd gone back for seconds and in Tony's case thirds they were all digesting their food when Gibbs stood and raised his glass. Tim looked around the dining room table as the others raised their glasses and grabbed his bottle. Gibbs chuckled, "Apparently Tim doesn't want to be left out of all the fun. I suppose I should have done this before we ate, but I would like to give a toast to all of you for coming tonight." He paused, staring at Timmy for a moment before continuing, "A lot has happened over the past few months; we've been thrown some unexpected curveballs. That hasn't stopped any of you from being there for Tim and me. We love you and thank you."
"Lub u!" Tim unexpectedly added as Gibbs extended and raised his arm higher, "May tonight be the start of many new traditions as a family."
"Here - here..." Tony replied, as they all clanked their glasses together. Tim giggled as everyone acknowledged him with a tap of his bottle.
Tony groaned as he patted his stomach, "I think I'm going to be full for the next couple of days."
"I will believe it when I see it, Tony."
"I can't imagine you turning down either the pumpkin or pecan pie that I made."
"Now that would just be rude of me, Sarah."
"Uh huh that's what I thought." She looked around the table and stood up, "Who wants to help me clean up?"
The others interjected her willingness with a litany of "Absolutely not - you're a guest and go spend time with Timmy." The younger woman threw her hands up in surrender, "Whoa, whoa, whoa I'm perfectly capable of helping." Gibbs realized this might be the perfect time to be alone with Sarah, allowing him to ask questions about Maggie's sobriety and overall general condition.
"Actually Sarah I was wondering if you'd be willing to chat with me in the family room."
"Don't worry about a thing here, Jethro. I think we five adults can handle a little kitchen cleanup."
"Ducky's right, son." Jack flicked his head toward the family room, "You go do what you have to do and we'll supervise the kids."
Sarah stood, refilling her wine glass and asked, "You mind if we take Timmy in there with us? I don't get to see him that often; while I'm here I want to be with him as much as possible."
"No, not at all." Gibbs stood, grabbed the baby wipes off the credenza and proceeded to wipe Timmy's face and hands. When he was done he unsnapped the tray and lifted Timmy out, "Let's go into the family room and play, kiddo."
"Toey? Zeba?"
The little guy whined, reaching out for two of his favorite people. "You'll see everyone in a few minutes, buddy. Right now we're going to hang out with Sarah."