Chapter Text
The front door swung open with a loud smack against the wall.
Duke bolted through the door, tail coming precariously close to knocking things off the small table in his excited rampage. Jenny shook her head, hanging the lead on its designated hook near the front door. A loud bark alerted her that the over excited Great Dane had found what he’d been looking for.
The old Ford truck was a dead giveaway that Jethro was home early.
Jenny dropped her purse on the nearest flat surface, keeping a close eye on Duke as he bolted around the living room, unable to contain his excitement. The trip to the vet had gone better than she had expected. Jethro’s quiet admonishment drew a smile from her.
Doctor Hopper had kept her in the hospital for an additional week, making sure everything was normal before discharging her. Recovery had been slow, she’d been tired and coughing for majority of the first two weeks she’d been back home. Jethro had hovered at the edges of her sanity, his sudden paranoia driving her crazy.
Leon Vance had ordered him back to work two days into her extended hospital stay. Something she realised had slowly put their lives back on track to a semblance of normal. Jethro had eased back into their normal routine. He came home most nights and if she was lucky, she’d see him during his everyday coffee run when the team decided it was time for lunch.
Rounding the corner of the kitchen, she stopped in her tracks. Jethro’s strong fingers wrapped around her biceps, preventing her from running into him. Placing her palms against his chest, she fingered the buttons on his polo shirt.
“You’re home earlier than I expected.”
Jethro cupped the back of her head, rough fingers catching on the soft material of her silk headscarf. Turning her head, he pressed his lips to hers; blue eyes fluttering shut as he kissed her. The breath mint she ate still lingered on her lips. He kissed the tip of her nose, smiling at the soft sigh she let slip.
“Paperwork’s done.” He ran his thumb over her slightly swollen lips, “And DiNozzo couldn’t shut up about the date he had for Valentine’s Day. Sent ‘em home early.”
Jenny touched her fingers to his lips, wiping off the smeared lipstick, “I guess your case dragged him away from more important things.”
“Dragged me away from important things too.” Jethro mumbled against her lips, easily coaxing her into another kiss.
The last few weeks Jenny had noticed Jethro came home earlier, even if he did have a case. The case that had taken him away Valentine’s morning had been the first to keep him at the office without being home somewhere during the day.
After everything they had gone through, she’d picked up on small changes in his behaviour. On the days that he could afford the luxury of sleeping until the alarm woke him, he usually stuck around to eat breakfast with her. Whenever he could manage, he was home at a reasonable hour, pestering Noemi to see what she had made for dinner just before she left.
It had taken her significantly longer to catch on to the subtle changes. Without ever admitting it to anyone, she had been weak the first two weeks she had been back home. Jethro and Noemi had taken turns checking up on her. She’d chalked his presence up to concern. It wasn’t until everything was slowly going back to normal that she realised he was acting different.
Duke crashed into their legs, dropping his chew toy at their feet causing it to let out a squeak.
Jenny pulled away, licking her lips, “I don’t think he’s gonna let you out of his sight for the next few hours.”
Patting Duke’s head softly, she moved away from Jethro, squeezing his fingers. “He turned the house upside down looking for you this weekend.” She grinned as Jethro sat on his haunches, humouring the Great Dane in his favourite game of fetch.
“How’d it go with him?” Jethro scratched behind Duke’s ears.
“He weighs a healthy seventy-two pounds and he’s up to date with his shots. The vet says we should give him some time, and his separation anxiety should resolve. She gave me a few pointers on what to do, hopefully it works.”
Duke’s behavioural problems had started just before she came home from the hospital and Jethro was back at work. Noemi had been around some of the days, but Duke had struggled to cope. She felt bad for how things had turned out and knew Jethro felt guilty too.
Squeezing Jethro’s shoulder, she headed for the coffee machine. The smell of whatever Noemi made for dinner hung in the air causing her stomach to growl.
Green eyes drifted to the kitchen island. The neat file containing her will was still sitting in the middle of the marble top, slowly gathering a thin layer of dust.
They had been avoiding the subject. It was easier to ignore it than discussing the finer details of what would happen when she died. There was nothing technical they had to review, majority of her assets were already going to Jethro in the event of her death. It was the details of what should happen after she died that they were avoiding.
Jethro had cunningly brought work home with him, reviewing case files and occasionally discussing them with her. It wasn’t something unusual. She’d grown used to the odd case file laying around, reminding her of a time her office had consisted of nothing more than Manila folders. But he was bringing home more work than usual. If there was one thing the man hated, it was doing paperwork. Whenever she tried to broach the subject in a subtle way, he buried his nose in a file.
The few nights he didn’t bring an odd file home, he coaxed Duke into playing fetch and sent the Great Dane into a rampage of excitement. The cold February air and the occasional dusting of snow meant the pup still had too much energy from being cooped up in the house.
Jenny let out a slow frustrated breath. Despite everything they had gone through these last few months, getting Jethro to talk was still more painful to him than pulling teeth.
The coffee machine beeped, breaking her out of her thoughts. Filling two mugs, she grabbed the file sitting on the kitchen counter, wiping away the layer of dust. Duke barrelled past her legs and through the back door, chasing after a tennis ball.
Jethro’s sock clad feet were propped up on the ottoman, long legs stretched out in front of him. Duke shot through the door, dropping the ball in his lap. The Great Dane obeyed the quiet command to sit before the ball went flying through the air again.
Handing him one of the cups, Jenny took a seat next to him, the folder resting next to her thigh on the couch. She couldn’t hide the small smile as Duke shot up the stairs and through the door, dropping the tennis ball in Jethro’s lap unceremoniously. The tennis ball went flying, sending the Great Dane charging again.
“If you were younger, you could’ve considered a professional career in baseball.” The tease earned her a light glare, the smile threatening to curl the corners of his lips as the tennis ball was dropped in his lap again.
“Ya sayin’ I’m old?” Jethro tossed the ball half-heartedly as he turned his attention on her, blue eyes glinting in the late afternoon sun.
Jenny grinned at him, aware of the strong fingers taking a hold of her thigh. “You have been for a while, old man.”
Jethro swallowed as her lips brushed against his, a teasing smile dancing in her eyes as she pressed a kiss to the corner of his mouth. He licked his lips. Their Saturday had started out exactly like this, a lazy day fuelled by the ridiculous ‘lovers’ holiday, until his phone rang dragging him away. He’d been forced to bury his needs in order to solve the case.
Cupping the back of her neck, he drew her closer, faintly aware of Duke staring at them from the door. Jethro watched as her pupils dilated, his breathing picking up as her hand slid up his thigh. Prying her coffee cup from her fingers, he placed it with his on the coffee table. The small squeak she let slip drew a smile from him as he pulled her onto his lap.
“This seems familiar.” She purred in his ear, sending his nerve endings into overdrive. He was painfully aware of the heat emanating from her body, the nip of her teeth on his earlobe sending his eyes rolling back in pleasure.
Lifting his hips, he watched through heavy lidded eyes as she easily unbuckled his belt. He knew he was playing right into her hand. Offering up all his control, but he couldn’t find in himself to care as she popped the button on his slacks. He groaned softly as her knuckles brushed against his briefs.
The green tennis ball landed on his lap, a loud bark shattering their moment.
“Duke.” Jethro muttered darkly. It wasn’t the first time the Great Dane ruined the mood.
Jenny dropped her forehead against his, her own breath coming in short gasps against his lips. Pressing her hands against his broad shoulders, she sat up, grabbing the tennis ball and throwing it over her shoulder. Licking her lips, she slid off his lap.
“We’re gonna have to start closing the bedroom door.” Jenny mumbled as Duke pranced back into the living room.
Jethro eyed Duke suspiciously as he stared at them again. The dog seemed to sense the slight hostility towards him, deciding to curl up in his basket instead, he rooted around for another toy.
“Yeah,” Jethro snorted at the scenario. Reaching for their coffee cups, he grinned despite himself as her eyes darted to his unbuttoned slacks.
“We still on for the weekend?” Jenny drew her eyes away, meeting his arrogant blue eyes, aware that her blatant stare simply stroked his ego.
“Barring an international crisis, yeah we’re all set.” Jethro reached for her free hand, stroking her knuckles, “Ya got something else planned?” he couldn’t help the tease.
Jenny rolled her eyes, “No, just have to do some blood work on Thursday. Didn’t know if you were on call or if you were even serious.”
Jethro raised an eyebrow, sitting up. Sipping his coffee, he frowned into the mug, unable to hide the fact that her comment had thrown him off. Glancing at her discreetly, he shrugged nonchalantly, “Just thought we could use some time away. If it makes ya feel any better, consider it as a late Valentines gift.” His tone of voice was almost defensive, trying to hide his embarrassment.
Jenny leaned into him, her nose nudging his cheek, “I didn’t mean it like that. It’s just… We’ve never done this.” She gestured between them, emphasising her point, “We didn’t go away for weekends and we both know that neither of us celebrate Valentines Day.”
Jethro shrugged, not ready to admit that he hadn’t even done it with any of his ex-wives. The closest he ever got to going away was a three-day honeymoon with Diane. Rebecca had been too drunk after their wedding and Stephanie had followed him to Russia a few days after they got married.
It wasn’t something fancy and he didn’t read much into it. He rarely took time off work for something as trivial as a vacation. But after Jenny’s hospitalisation and her lengthy recovery, he thought she’d jump at the opportunity to get away. The small voice of his subconscious eagerly reminded him that he was the one who wanted to get away.
“House has a great view of the ocean.” He tempted her, steering them away from the real topic.
“It’s the middle of February.” Jenny countered.
“Got some ideas to keep warm.” Jethro grinned at her.
Jenny smiled at him, placing her coffee cup on the table, she reached for the file as it lay next to her.
The darkness in his eyes was impossible to miss as she thumbed the edge of the file. Biting her lip, she dropped it in his lap. She felt him stiffen against her side as his cold blue eyes scanned over the first page. He drained his coffee, placing it next to hers.
The calmness in his eyes quickly shifted, his face almost unreadable. Jenny swallowed. The hand holding hers broke their contact, clutching the file firmly, the papers inside wrinkling under the strength of his fingers.
Jethro clenched his teeth, the muscles in his jaw rippling.
He’d been here before, nearly two decades earlier. Shannon had been in tears, nursing a still infant Kelly as they talked about what would happen if he died during deployment. Bile rose in the back of his throat, he swallowed reflexively. He knew this wasn’t any easier on Jenny.
Opening the file, he paged through it slowly, “I really don’t want to talk about this, Jen.” It sounded harsh, but he didn’t see the point in lying to her, she knew him well enough by now.
“I know, it’s not exactly my idea of small talk either, but it’s something we need to discuss.” She brushed her fingers through his hair, resting her hand at the nape of his neck. “It’s not so much the content of it, more what happens after I…”
Jethro glared at the words written in front of him. Her will wasn’t more than a couple of pages, stipulating he was set to inherit almost everything in the event of her death, with the exception of a few other people.
“Yeah,” he muttered hoarsely, “ever thought what would happen if I died first?”
The morbid question took them both by surprise. Jenny’s green eyes were guarded, indicative that she’d thought about it before.
“Everything goes to Ziva.” Jenny gave him a tight smile, “She’s the closest thing I have to family after you.”
Jethro scrubbed a hand over his face. Dropping the file on the coffee table, he buttoned his slacks, grabbing their coffee cups. The dog lifted his head curiously before settling back down.
Resting his hands on the edge of the sink, he stared through the large windows overlooking the front yard. He knew that at some point he would have to come to terms with the prospect of losing her. The last few months had made him more aware of just how fragile her health was. He’d nearly lost her just over a month ago. Losing her wasn’t something he wanted to acknowledge. He never even thought he’d lose his own daughter.
He sensed her behind him, hovering a few feet away. Glancing at her over his shoulder, he dropped his chin, sighing. Finally meeting her gaze, he trudged towards her, running his hands up and down her arms. His anger was irrational and misdirected. There was nothing she could do, and his childish reaction towards her was uncalled for.
Pulling her against his chest, he kissed her forehead, “I’m sorry, Jen.”
Jenny turned her face into the crook of his neck, breathing him in. She’d expected his reaction. Jackson had been the one to reassure her. She’d called him shortly after being discharged, wanting to catch up with him and find out how he was doing. Their conversation had lasted nearly two hours. The older Gibbs had done everything to calm her fears over his son’s reaction.
Jethro had lost so much already, she at least knew where his hostility came from.
“You wanna talk about-” Jethro pursed his lips in frustration, “your funeral?”
Jenny frowned, smoothing her hands over his chest, “After my father died…” She rubbed her forehead, “I didn’t know what he wanted or what his last wishes were. It’s not something people talk about.”
Jethro tilted his head back, staring at the ceiling.
He never knew what kind of funeral Shannon wanted, it had been the last thing on their minds. The thought of burying his little girl had never even crossed his mind. Shannon’s mother had taken care of all the arrangements. Grief had consumed him after he’d received the news.
“You have anything specific in mind?” It pained him to ask the question.
Jenny shook her head, meeting his tormented gaze, “Nothing big, but I’d like to be buried next to my father.”
Jethro nodded, his own will had been amended after the death of his family, stipulating he wanted to be laid to rest with them. He sucked in a deep breath, resting his arms on her shoulders. He studied her closely, wondering how long she’d contemplated her death after being diagnosed. It wasn’t the first time he questioned if the events in Los Angeles had been her way out of everything.
“I’ll try and remember that when I’m ninety.” He chuckled nervously.
Jenny dropped her head against his shoulder, laughing “You sure your memory will still be up to par, old man?”
“Still gonna rock ya world at ninety.”
Jenny threw her head back laughing. Cupping his cheeks, she stroked the soft skin with her thumbs. The look in his eyes was conflicting, his smile barely reached his baby blues. His fingers curled into her jersey, holding her close against him. Gazing at him thoughtfully, she saw his pulse race in his throat.
“What is it, Jethro?” the question came out in a whisper.
He licked his lips, eyes darting from hers down to her lips. He swallowed audibly, it was unlike him to be hesitant or reluctant.
“When you-” he narrowed his eyes, taking a deep breath. “When you decided to pursue Svetlana… You weren’t planning on walking out alive, were you?”
She dropped her hands from his face, lips pressed in a thin line. Taking a calming breath, she stepped away from him. Folding her arms defensively, she leaned against the cabinet across from him. Scuffing her sneakers against the tiles, she studied her shoes for a while.
The patience with which he watched her was infuriating. It was the same patience she had admired as a young agent. He could sit for days, and she suspected even weeks, simply staring at someone. It was the one thing she’d never been willing to discuss, Mike Franks only knew due to his involvement. The only person who truly knew how destructive her life had been after Tony’s near death experience was Melvin.
“My only concern was keeping you safe.”
Jethro narrowed his eyes, “You could’ve done that by telling DiNozzo and Ziva what was going on.”
She should’ve known he was going to interrogate her. Secrets and a shared reluctance to talk had been their downfall. A heavy sigh rushed past her lips. Unresolved anger slowly cropping up inside her. Thinking about the events leading up to Los Angeles always left a bitter taste in her mouth. It had been the precipice of their hostility towards each other, and her poor judgement had sent their volatile relationship hurtling down to earth.
“After La Grenouille, things fell apart.” The words tasted foreign in her mouth, “After working hours, alcohol had been the solution to everything. I started suspecting something was wrong right around the time you questioned me about my health. Ducky was the only person I could trust at the time.”
Jethro shifted across from her, growing visibly uncomfortable.
“After being diagnosed, I didn’t have much hope. It was the early stages of treatment, and the doctors didn’t know whether I would respond to it or not. The survival rate of stage three breast cancer isn’t very high.” Jenny dropped her gaze, “I was in so much pain, I didn’t want to go on.”
She looked up at him, overly aware that she was probably bringing back painful memories of his mother. “I never consciously thought about taking my own life. Not after having my father accused of committing suicide. I knew walking into that diner there was a possibility that only one of us would make it out alive. Mike knew it too. But there were days that… I seriously considered it.”
Jethro tilted his head fractionally, eyes guarded, “What changed?”
Jenny stepped closer to him, reaching out for his hand. She grasped his fingers as he returned the gesture, tracing the calluses on his palms. “Us. If you hadn’t been so insistent on sticking around…” she drew her bottom lip between her teeth, trying to reign in her emotions, “I don’t know if I would’ve made it this far.”
Jethro withdrew his hand from hers, staring into her large emerald eyes brimming with tears. It was the naked truth. He could see the anguish in her eyes. He knew all too well what she’d gone through, understood the decision to end it all. More than anything he understood the suffering of being alone.
Snaking an arm around her waist, he drew her flush against his chest. He felt her shuddering breath against his neck, the moisture seeping through his polo shirt. Cupping the back of her neck, he pressed his nose into her cheek. He felt her slowly calm down, her breathing less erratic. Wiping away a stray tear, he kissed her.
He tasted the saltiness of her tears on her lips. He sensed her pain in the way she nipped at his lower lip, forcing him to give into her need for control. Succumbing willingly, he settled his arms around her waist, holding her tightly against him as she took what she needed from him.
She placed a fluttering of kisses on his lips, before finally resting her forehead against his, eyes closed.
The sound of the tennis ball bouncing on the hardwood floors drew their attention. Duke had dropped it near their feet, icy blue eyes staring up at them.
“Duke.” Jethro sighed patiently.
They both reached down to pet the Great Dane as he leaned against their legs.
The salty sea breeze settled on her lips, the warm winter sun heating her cold toes. Jenny pulled the sleeves of the red USMC hoodie over her cold hands, the floral headscarf did nothing to keep her warm. Jethro was seated behind her on the steps of the small deck, throwing Duke’s tennis ball around the yard. Resting her elbows on his thighs, she leaned back against his chest, soaking up as much of the sun as she could.
They had left before the crack of dawn Friday morning at Jethro’s insistence. Even Duke had been grumpy as they loaded him in the back of the car. They had spent the day familiarising themselves with the coastal city that was Virginia Beach. Work had brought them here several times over the years, but they were usually confined to Norfolk.
The quiet and uninterrupted Saturday was spent lazing around the small beach house. They had nowhere important to be. She’d never seen Jethro this relaxed, hair windswept and his skin sun kissed, the broad smile on his face soft as Duke goofed around.
The Great Dane bolted from one side of the picket fence to the other, barking at a swarm of birds. They hardly seemed fazed as he growled, the tennis ball muffling his threatening barks.
Wrapping his arms around Jenny’s shoulders, Jethro kissed along her jaw, nose pressed against her cheek. She smelled like sunscreen and shea butter. Her body pleasantly warm against his as he slipped his hands lower, coming to rest on her abdomen and pulling her closer.
“Can I interest you in some physical activities?” he whispered in her ear, nipping her earlobe gently.
“Hmm, like last night?” Jenny turned her head, a teasing grin curling her lips.
“Hey!” he pinched her side playfully, “I was tired.”
She laughed as he buried his face in her neck, nipping her pulse point threateningly. Resting his chin on her shoulder, Jethro sighed, hugging her for good measure. Sliding one hand in his jean pocket, he fished for the folded piece of paper.
“Found it in the suitcase this morning while you were making breakfast.” Holding out the paper for her to take, he pressed his cheek against hers, “Thought it was a receipt.”
Jenny held the paper in her hands, running her fingers over the aged creases. Feeling her heart rate accelerate, she unfolded it slowly, immediately recognising her own handwriting. She took a deep breath.
The bucket list stared back at her. It was written on a piece of paper she’d taken from a hotel notepad. In hind sight it almost made her feel stupid. She smiled to herself, watching as Duke trotted around the yard, sniffing curiously along the picket fence. At least she could cross the first one off her list.
“It was a dark couple of weeks.” She turned in Jethro’s grip, leaning against his thigh, meeting his azure gaze. “I actually thought I had thrown it away.”
Jethro massaged her shoulder with one hand, the other resting on her thigh. His eyes scanned over the piece of paper. When he’d found the list, it had almost felt like he was invading her privacy, and he probably did. There weren’t many last wishes written down, but one or two did take him by surprise.
“You want a tattoo?” he asked hoarsely.
“You sound surprised.” Jenny grinned up at him. Jethro would always be traditional and a little reserved when it came to certain things.
“Ya hate needles. Abby says it hurts.” He argued, raising a grey eyebrow.
Jenny shrugged, letting out a quiet breath as she folded the paper again. “I’ve had my fair share of pain. I think I can handle it… one day.”
Jethro kissed her forehead softly, swallowing against the sudden rise of emotions.
Jenny stretched, resting her elbow on his thigh again. She smirked up at him, knowing he was burning to ask her about the last thing she’d written on the piece of paper. She reached for the hand resting on her bent knee, stroking the calluses thoughtfully. “The tattoo is the one you’re focusing on?” she knew she was baiting him.
Jethro narrowed his eyes at her, clearing his throat, “You wanted to get married?”
Pursing her lips, she looked up at him thoughtfully. “I don’t really know.” She didn’t miss the deep frown briefly flashing across his features. “Maybe if my life was different and I hadn’t wasted every available hour at the office. Let’s face it, Jethro, being a workaholic doesn’t leave much room for romance.”
He seemed to consider her reasoning. After three failed marriages, she was confident he knew exactly what she was talking about. Glancing at the piece of paper still between her fingers, she shook her head. “Maybe it was never a bucket list. More a list of things I regretted never doing.”
Jethro let out a puff of air that sounded suspiciously like an agreement. “Think everyone has one of those.”
They sat in silence, the conversation had ruined the lazy Saturday afternoon. Jenny ran her hand thoughtfully over Jethro’s thigh, feeling the strong muscles through his jeans. Slapping his thigh playfully, she stood, holding her hand out to him.
“Wanna go for a walk before the rain comes?” Jenny stretched her arms above her head. The dark clouds were slowly blowing towards them as they watched the ocean.
Jethro nodded, grabbing Duke’s leash where it lay on the picnic table. A sharp whistle had the Great Dane trotting towards them. Clicking the leash safely onto Duke’s collar, they headed for the small gate leading out onto the beach.
The wind was steadily growing colder as they meander closer to the water, staying right on the edge of the surf. Duke barked at the occasional jogger, tail wagging excitedly, nose sniffing curiously at the sand beneath his paws.
Jenny wrapped her arm around Jethro’s waist, snuggling into his warmth. A brawny arm settled around her, a large palm squeezing her hip as he tugged her closer. The wind whipped around them, playing with the tips of her headscarf.
Several beach goers trudged past them, heading back to their homes. A small family walked in their direction, the two kids breaking away from their parents, running at full speed towards them. Duke barked with excitement, tugging at his leash, almost dragging Jethro behind him.
“Daddy, look! It’s a horsey dog!” the little boy jumped with excitement.
Jethro easily regained control of Duke, quietly demanding him to sit. He’d recognised the fear on the young father’s face, knowing he’d been in similar positions before.
“We pet him?” the smallest of the two boys whined, wriggling against his father’s grip.
Scratching behind Duke’s ears, Jethro offered the young father a knowing smile, “He’s well behaved. He won’t bite.”
The two boys raced towards them again, grinding to a halt as Jethro gave them treats to feed Duke. The Great Dane yapped happily at the attention, enjoying the various scratches the boys eagerly bestowed upon him. The whining from the two boys were expected as their mother corralled them back on track to head home.
Picking up their leisure pace, Jenny resumed her position, unable to hide the silly grin on her face. She rarely allowed her thoughts to stray into ideas of ‘what if’, but some days she couldn’t help herself. Watching Jethro interact with children usually sent her down dangerous paths. It was hard not to think about a scenario where it was their kid he doted on. The reminder of Kelly usually shut down those type of thoughts before she could cling to them for too long.
“What ya smiling about?” the curiosity tainted his voice.
Jenny tilted her head back, looking up at him. The surf was dangerously close to their still dry shoes, Duke was seeking shelter behind her as it came closer. The crash of waves filled the silence between them as she tried searching for what to say.
Turning away from him, she coaxed him into picking up their pace again. She sighed, the sound somewhere between wistful and regretful. Licking her dry lips, she broke the heavy silence, “If there’s one thing I truly regret…” she swallowed, “it’s never having kids. If I were younger and not sick, I would’ve considered adopting.”
Jethro tightened his grip on her shoulders, pressing a kiss to her temple. They stopped their slow trek through the sand, the tide was slowly rising and the dark clouds close to making landfall. He swallowed at her words. If she’d asked him, he probably would’ve agreed to have children with her. It was that very reason he’d kept her at arms length during Paris. She’d been too close, too close for him to survive possibly losing her. But here they were, standing on the brink of uncertainty.
“You can still adopt.” He hated how hoarse his voice was, betraying just where his thoughts had wandered.
Jenny gave him a sad smile, “No, I can’t do that to a child. Even if I do go into remission, the chances of the cancer coming back is too great.”
He pulled her into his chest, resting his lips against her forehead, watching the waves crash against the shore. Looking down, he ran a thumb over her soft cheek, “Is that the only thing you really regret?”
Duke was slowly winding his leash around their legs as he chased after broken seashells.
“I think we’ve already established my numerous regrets.” Jenny laughed against his throat, sounding almost shy as she tried to hide her face.
He placed a finger under her chin, coaxing her to look at him. Green eyes sparkled with moisture as he studied her delicate features. Cupping her cheeks in his hands, he nudged his nose against hers. She met his kiss with one of her own, mindful that they were still in public despite being alone.
Jethro stroked her cheeks softly, keeping her close enough to still feel her warm breath on his lips. Her emerald eyes were still dazed from their kiss, her cheeks a soft pink from the cold wind. He smiled at her, trying to move his body closer to hers.
“Marry me, Jenny.”
The sound of laughter was his only answer as she threw her head back, exposing her pale throat. He couldn’t help the grin stealing over his lips. Slipping an arm behind her neck, he felt her rest her head in the crook of his arm, lithe fingers curling in the lapels of his thick jacket.
“No.” Jenny shook her head, “But thank you for trying to fulfil my bucket list.”
Jethro frowned, tightening his grip on her, “Not tryin’ to fulfil anything. I wanna marry ya, tomorrow works for me.”
Jenny shook her head, the laughter still evident in her voice, “No, Jethro. I’m not marrying you tomorrow or even the day after that.”
“Someday?” he nudged his nose against hers again.
Jenny pulled her bottom lip between her teeth, nibbling thoughtfully. She studied his blue eyes, watching as they searched hers for answers. “I’ll make you a promise.”
He simply raised an eyebrow at her.
She slipped her fingers in his hair, combing through the unruly strands, “If I ever go into remission, I will marry you.”
Jethro slipped his other arm around her waist, eyes staring into hers to see if she was playing with him. He pursed his lips, breathing in deeply, “One day, then.” He pulled her in as close as possible, grinning as she tightened her fingers in his hair, “You know I love you, right?”
“I know.”
She kissed him first, tongue teasing his lower lip, enticing him to part his lips. He squeezed his eyes shut, allowing his senses to be consumed by her. He groaned as she brushed her tongue against his, nearly causing his knees to buckle. It always took him by surprise how much he enjoyed it when she was in control.
Small drops of rain forced them apart, their lips smacking softly.
Jethro tugged the hood of the jersey over Jenny’s head, pulling the draw strings as tight as possible. He ignored the murderous glare she shot up at him. He’d rather deal with a moody Jenny than seeing her back in the hospital. Untangling Duke’s leash from around their legs, they headed back to the house.
Jenny moved closer to Jethro, trying to stay warm as the torrent of rain pelted down. Their clothes were slowly getting soaked as they tried to avoid the rising surf. Duke was running ahead of them, tail wagging happily.
The small gate squeaked as Jethro opened it, letting the Great Dane in before he could push them out of the way. Thunder rumbled nearby, lightning cracking somewhere in the distance. Duke bolted for the house, dragging Jethro behind him.
Jenny snickered as she followed closely behind them, listening as Jethro swore under his breath. Closing the glass doors behind them, she pushed the hood off her head, shivering involuntarily. The house was dark, the dying sunset offering little light as the storm consumed it. Feeling along the wall, Jenny flicked the light switch, illuminating the dark open plan living room.
Water dripped from the hoodie, pooling around her equally soaked feet. Peeling the wet material over her head, she shivered again, her thin t-shirt offering little warmth. Tossing one of the beach towels at Jethro, she tried drying off as much as possible.
Jethro shrugged off his jacket, still holding on to Duke’s leash. Patting his own hair dry, he wrapped the towel around the dog, trying to dry him off. “Why don’t ya take a shower? Warm up some.” The red hoodie had offered very little protection against the rain judging by how wet her t-shirt was, his own jacket had been soaked through.
Thunder rumbled close by, rattling the windows of the house. Duke whined, pulling against his leash. Jethro unclipped it from the buckle, standing back as the dog took off towards his basket. Another clap of thunder shook the house, closely followed by a bright flash of lightning.
“You planning on joining me?” Jenny shivered, eager to get out of her wet clothes.
Jethro eyed Duke suspiciously. Backing away slowly, he wrapped an arm around her waist, pressing his lips against her ear, “Last one there has to scrub the other’s back.”
He was well prepared for her pointy elbow as it dug into his stomach. He grinned at the soft cry of triumph as she bolted for the stairs. Closing the distance between them with large strides, he pinched her ass, laughing as she squealed.
She shot up the stairs faster than what he was prepared for. Taking them two at a time, he managed to snake an arm around her waist before she made it to the last step. Burying his nose against her throat, he felt her pulse flutter against his lips. Nipping the tender skin, he sucked gently.
“You play dirty.” He murmured against her throat, enjoying the way she exposed her neck to him. The sultry laugh she awarded him with made his stomach flutter. The cold fingers wrapping around his hands reminding him why exactly he was chasing her.
Jenny bit her lip, trying to muffle the moan Jethro drew from her, his voice low as he whispered promises in her ear. She gasped as his cold fingers slipped inside her jeans, spreading over her lower abdomen, teasing the edge of her panties.
Turning in his arms, she dropped her hands to the button of his jeans, running her fingers over the slight bulge. He groaned, his head lolling back, exposing his throat to her. Taking the opportunity to return the favour, she nipped at his pulse, drawing a low hiss from him.
“Jen…” he moaned as she sucked the sensitive spot.
Touching a finger under her chin, he tilted her face up. Large green eyes staring up at him, pupils dilated. Running his thumb over her lower lip, he leaned closer. He quietly marvelled at how soft she felt against him, her small hands resting easily against his back, tugging him closer. He couldn’t help the contented sigh as she closed the distance between them, her lips soft and pliable against his. He didn’t fight her as she ran the tip of her tongue over his lips. Eagerly accepting her, he groaned as she stroked his tongue with hers.
Duke barked right next to them, causing them to jump apart.
Jethro sighed, pressing his forehead against Jenny’s, “I’ll never win.”
Jenny laughed, reaching down to pet Duke as he leaned against their legs, “He probably heard us.”
Jethro scoffed, glaring at Duke. Hooking a finger in the d-link of his collar, he squeezed Jenny’s fingers, “Go take a shower. Gonna feed him and make sure he’s settled. You’re shivering.”
“I’ll wait for you in the bedroom.” She breathed against his lips, drawing him into another kiss.
Jenny watched as Jethro led Duke back down the stairs, listening as he told the dog what exactly he thought of the interruption.
The storm raged outside the large bay windows, rain hammering against the glass as the wind howled. Jenny tightened her bathrobe. Her skin was still a soft pink from the scalding water, the robe keeping her warm as she stood and watched the storm. Jethro was yet to join her. She’d half expected him to slip in the shower with her after taking Duke downstairs.
Lips pressed against her knuckles, she smiled to herself, unable to help the fluttering in her stomach. Jethro’s impromptu proposal had been as expected as it was unexpected. She had wanted to say yes, but the rational part of her mind had stepped in. Despite his denial she knew the discovery of her bucket list had prompted him. If he could wait until she went into remission, she’d definitely marry him if the offer was still standing. But there was no certainty that she’d ever go into remission.
The sudden feel of Jethro’s warm lips against her neck drew her back to reality.
Moaning softly, she felt him move closer, heat radiating from his warm skin. The feel of his teeth softly scraping the shell of her ear made her lean in to him. Strong arms wrapped around her, drawing her closer. She could feel his erection press into her back and the way his hips jerked at the sudden contact.
Turning in his arms, Jenny drew her bottom lip between her teeth, grinning as Jethro stood in front of her. The purple towel was slung low on his hips, water droplets rolling down his chest, his hair still dripping wet. Settling her hands on his chest, she ran her fingers through the smattering of silver hair, tracing the contours of his muscles.
“Guess I’ll have to think of some other way you can repay me, since I clearly won.”
Jethro grinned down at her, reaching for her hips. He gently tugged her closer, feeling her fingers stilling on his chest. Nudging her cheek with his nose, he lightly brushed his lips over hers, sharing a whispered kiss. Sliding his one hand over her ass, he found the hem of her bathrobe, tracing his fingers over her toned thigh.
“I have some suggestions.” He whispered against her lips, inching his hand higher on her thigh. He could feel her muscles ripple under his touch. Adjusting his grip, he ran his thumb along her inner thigh. She let out an impatient sigh, nails pricking his skin as he backed off.
Running the tips of her fingers over his chest, Jenny watched as Jethro reacted. His abdominal muscles quivered against her palm as she toyed with the edge of his towel, smouldering eyes barely open as he watched. She could tell from his soft panting that he was riding the edge of control, muscles taught as he tried not to relieve the rising anticipation.
Tracing her hands over his hips, she ran her thumb along the strip of hair leading down from his navel. Casually dipping her thumb dangerously low beneath the material of his towel, she brushed the coarse hair hiding underneath. Jethro let out a strangled moan, hips jerking against her and his hands clamping around her wrists.
“You’re the devil.” He grinned as she fluttered her lashes at him innocently. Easily wrapping one hand around her delicate wrists, he reached for the knot keeping her robe snug against her skin.
Jethro swallowed, tongue darting out to lick his lips as the soft material fluttered open. Placing kisses along her throat, he eased the grip he had on her wrists. He groaned softly as she pulled his head closer to her chest. Conscious of her insecurities, he cupped her one breast gently, relieved as she arched against him. Flicking a thumb against the sensitive peak, he closed his mouth over hers as she moaned.
Running his fingers over her collarbone, the robe slipped off her shoulder, revealing her flushed skin. He traced his eyes over the smooth skin, lips eagerly following. She was pliable in his arms, desperately clinging to him as he marked her skin. Rough fingers glided over her stomach, teasing as they nestled between her thighs.
A throaty laugh slipped past her lips, “You’ve always been good with your hands.”
Jethro’s arrogant grin turned into a pleasurable gasp as Jenny undid the towel, exposing his hot skin to the cold air. He strained visibly as she pressed her small hands against his hips. Dropping his forehead to hers, breathing heavily against her lips. He swallowed audibly, warm fingers taking a firm hold of him.
“Jen-” he groaned, her fingers stroking him teasingly.
Grabbing a firm hold of his hips, she steered him towards the bed. The hunger in his blue eyes spurring her on. Easing him down on the bed, Jenny watched with rapt attention as he stretched himself out on his back. Strong thighs rippling as he strained, anticipation clouding his eyes.
The sheets were cool against her hot and sensitised skin. She settled against his side. Jethro snaked an arm underneath her, callused fingers resting idly on her lower back, silently demanding she move closer.
Jenny combed her fingers through his damp silver hair, easily coaxing him to look at her. Heavy lidded blue eyes longed for her, pupils dilating as she eased her leg over his, spreading his thighs. She nipped his earlobe, sending a mixture of pleasurable pain down his spine. His erection twitched, drawing a sultry grin from her.
“You always were quick to respond.” She murmured in his ear, licking at his skittering pulse. His only response was an audible swallow.
Scraping her nails through his chest hair, she traced the firm muscles of his abdomen. Jethro’s breathing was slightly erratic, eyes fluttering open and closed at hazed intervals. She’d always enjoyed having him in this position. He was by no means helpless, previous experience had taught her not to underestimate the idle hand on her back.
Jethro was always in control, of his work, his hobbies, his pleasure. It was a rare occurrence to see him roll over and show his belly. Literally and figuratively. She traced the angry patch of skin marring his side, stirring memories she rarely dwelled on. Blue eyes flicked open, suddenly crystal clear. Strong fingers stilled her movements as his free hand wrapped around her wrist.
The smile he gave her was lazy and warm, sun kissed skin crinkling adoringly. They would always blame themselves for the others injuries.
“You’re soakin’, Jen.” His voice was thick with lust, moving his thigh teasingly between hers.
Jenny pressed her forehead against his, taking his lips in a searing kiss. He was by no means passive. Blunt nails dug into the small of her back as his tongue slipped past her lips. She moaned, grinding her hips against his thigh. Jethro sucked in a sharp breath, letting a groan slip as her hand finally closed around his straining length. He was hot and thick in her palm, chest heaving with effort to regain some control.
“You’re a tease.” He managed another gasp as she started with slow languid strokes.
“Only for you.” Jenny purred in his ear. Circling her thumb around the tip of his erection, she used the moisture she found to her advantage. Hips bucking into her hand, he let out a guttural moan.
She hushed him gently, kissing the corner of his mouth enticingly. He was too enraptured with the exquisite attention to capture her lips. Jenny felt her own breathing pick up, panting softly against his damp skin. He wrapped his free hand around her wrist, squeezing her hand more firmly around him. The steady rhythm of his hips faltered.
“Jen,” he groaned, stilling both their hands, “ya have to stop.”
Jethro gripped her thigh possessively, using the arm beneath her to hoist her on top of him. She sat astride him, the heat between her thighs resting invitingly against his stomach. Smoothing his rough palms over her skin, he grinned as she shivered above him. Inching his fingers higher on her thighs, he didn’t miss the way she held her breath or her teeth sinking into her bottom lip.
Jenny gasped as he ran his thumb over her intimately, sending a shudder up her spine and a soft moan to escape her lips. Reaching for the bedside table, he blindly searched for the lube. The soft pop of the lid opening drew her attention to what he was doing.
Jethro watched with rapt attention as she arched her back, her smooth skin puckering invitingly as his cold fingers slipped knowingly against her. He slipped a cold finger inside her tentatively. Green smouldering eyes looked down at him, causing the pool of fire in the pit of his stomach to intensify.
“You like doing that far too much.” Jenny panted softly, grinding her hips against his cupping palm.
“You love it.” He groaned as she slid down his abdomen, hips flush against his.
Jenny licked her lips, reaching down between them, taking Jethro firmly again. Reaching for the plastic container, she smirked as he gasped when her cold hand closed around him, stroking lazily. “Ready?” she murmured.
An impatient groan was all she needed. Biting her lip, she watched through heavy eyelids as she slowly sank down on him. They moaned together, a week of anticipation slowly accumulating in heat and pleasure. Jenny rocked her hips, her small hands pressing against his firm chest, fingers curling in his chest hair.
Jethro grabbed her hips, lending her some support and easing the strain on her muscles. Smoothing his hands over her abdomen, he felt her muscles contract and quiver, her breathing laboured as she picked up the rhythm. Few positions were comfortable for her, but he had to admit that he enjoyed seeing her like this. Taking pleasure while making sure to give in equal measure.
Clutching her hip again, he slipped his other hand between them. One of her hands joined his, guiding him, he felt his breathing pick up as he simply watched her. Pale skin flushed and sweaty, he listened as she moaned, her hips moving frantically against his.
“Oh! Jethro!” Jenny cried, her muscles clenching.
Groaning, he picked up the pace as she quivered above him. It didn’t take much for him to join her.
Jenny stretched out against him, chest to chest, luxuriating in the feel of his coarse chest hair rubbing against her. Kissing his fluttering pulse, she mewled softly as he met her in a languid kiss. His tongue brushed against the roof of her mouth, causing an unexpected flutter of her abdominal muscles.
“Again?” he was out of breath, placing gentle nipping kisses along her jaw.
“It was a long week.” Jenny laughed, still catching her own breath.
Jethro chuckled deep in his throat. Using his larger frame to his advantage, he flipped their position. Slipping from her heat, they both shuddered. Trailing his lips down her throat, he easily settled between her legs, draping each thigh on his shoulders. Nipping the tender skin of her hip bone, he grinned against her skin as she sucked in a breath.
“Not exactly a back scrub, but I think you’ll like this more.”
Jenny’s loud shout was drowned out by a clap of thunder.
The early winter morning sun slowly rose over Virginia Beach. The heat slowly warmed the bedroom as it filtered through large bay windows. The sound of the waves crashing against the shore filled the peaceful silence. Jenny sighed contentedly as the sky slowly turned brilliant shades of blue and orange.
Jethro was still fast asleep, his head resting on her stomach, an arm curling around her thighs. She combed her fingers through his silky hair, listening to his soft snores. Habit had roused her. It was a rare occurrence for her to be awake before him.
It was strange experiencing this side of Jethro. Life wasn’t always easy between them. Some days it was still hard to cope with the all the side-effects from her treatment. She felt guilty whenever she took out her frustration and anger on him. He was always calm, taking it on the chin and leaving her alone. There were time when a case grated on his nerves, causing him to brood and be generally unpleasant. He usually spent the night at his house, but he always phoned her to say goodnight.
Maybe the prospect of her failing health forced them to be more understanding towards each other. Maybe being older had made them wiser. Whatever it was, a relationship between them would never be easy, but right now… it was damn near perfect.
Jethro twitched against her, arm squeezing her thighs possessively before rolling onto his side. Jenny smoothed her hand down his muscled back, envying him for the heat radiating from him. Finally free, she slipped out of bed. Grabbing one of his clean hoodies, she slipped into it.
The winter sun slowly warmed the kitchen as Jenny moved around. The coffee machine whirred softly in the background, the smell of breakfast filling the air. Duke growled from his spot in the sun, gnawing his chew toy as a stray seagull perched on the picnic table. Scolding the Great Dane gently, Jenny turned her attention back to the last bits of frying bacon.
Duke’s excited bark gave away Jethro’s bleary eyes entrance.
Jenny bit her lip, grinning as Jethro ran a hand through his messy silver hair. Green eyes traced over his large frame. His tanned skin puckered as a cold breeze swept in through the open doors. “I hope you’re hungry.”
Jethro returned her warm grin. Scratching behind Duke’s ear, he trudged around the kitchen island, wrapping his arms around Jenny’s waist. Burying his nose in her neck, he breathed her in, kissing her skittering pulse. Sliding his hands down her hips, he traced his fingers over her bare thighs.
“Will we survive your cooking?”
Jenny smacked his shoulder indignantly, glaring up at him. She laughed as he easily picked her up, the marble top cold against her bare thighs. Drawing him closer and wrapping her legs around his waist, she kissed him. Carding her fingers through his hair, she moaned softly as he kissed her neck. “Mm, I don’t think I’ve done it on a kitchen counter since Paris.”
“Almost did it,” Jethro pulled back, “Ducky walked in. Can’t say I can fulfil ya’ fantasy today, dog’s staring at us.”
Jenny snorted, shooting Duke a sympathetic look, “It does get awkward when he’s staring.” Turning back to Jethro, she smoothed her fingers over his forehead, easing away his glare. “Oh,” she smiled, “I got an interesting call earlier in the week. MacMillan Defence has offered me a very prestigious position.”
Jethro raised an eyebrow, intrigued. He was vaguely aware of the company, a number of NCIS agents and close Marine buddies had been offered a position. “What did you say?”
Jenny shrugged, scratching her nails lightly across his chest. “Told them that my health isn’t what it should be. They said they’d be willing to wait until I’m ready.”
“Sounds promising. So… you considering it?”
“I don’t know how much more sitting around I can do. I haven’t had much of a choice, but I might take them up on their offer.”
Jethro smiled at her reassuringly, having noticed the uncertainty in her voice. It didn’t surprise him that the defence contractor was willing to wait for her. She was good at playing politics and co-ordinating operations. It was only a matter of time before she started feeling like a caged animal.
The coffee machine beeped, breaking their lazy silence.
They worked around each other with practised ease, dishing breakfast and making themselves comfortable on the patio.
Duke trotted around the small yard, chasing away rogue seagulls as they perched on the picket fence. Jethro took the offered tennis ball from the Great Dane, tossing it in a corner for him to chase. He kept a close eye on Jenny. The few days away had been blissful, the colour in her cheeks had finally returned more permanently.
The ringing cellphone drew a sigh from both of them. Sundays on an off-weekend usually meant Jethro was unofficially on the clock. A small divot creased his forehead, the annoying ringtone unfamiliar. “Ya expecting a call, Jen?”
Jenny gave him a quizzical look before recognising that it was her phone, “It’s probably just Noemi.”
He watched her stretch her long pale legs before hurrying up the steps into the kitchen. He openly leered at her, shooting her a bemused grin as rubbed her foot over a well toned calf muscle. They glint in her emerald eyes sending his blood rushing.
The sound of her voice faded as she moved farther in the house, pacing as she listened. Jethro scratched Duke’s soft white coat, petting him gently as he placed his large on his lap. Suddenly alone with his thoughts, he considered the events of yesterday.
He’d sworn off marriage after Stephanie, if only to save himself the cost of legal fees. It had been the spur of the moment. Finding the list of her final wishes had thrown their lives into a strange new focus. He loved her, had always loved her. The promise she’d made him had filled him with excitement and dread, aware that things always had the potential to fall apart.
The excited swoosh of Duke’s tail let him know Jenny had returned.
“Everything okay?” Jethro looked up from petting Duke. The smile faded from his lips, “Jen, what is it?”
He felt his pulse quicken, his knees suddenly weak as he grabbed her arms. She was deathly pale, the stress and trauma she’d been through these last few months finally showing. Looping an arm around her waist, he slip a finger under her chin.
“It was Doctor Geiger,” she swallowed visibly, lips pressed in a thin line, “they want to do more tests.”
“That’s not what’s got you like this.”
Jenny took a deep breath, curling her fingers around his biceps, silently drawing strength from him, “They found abnormalities in my latest blood work. Jethro,” her voice quivered, “I think the cancer is back.”
Jethro’s jaw clenched, gathering Jenny in his arms. Cupping the back of her head, he kissed her forehead tenderly. “Jenny,” he met her watery green eyes, wiping away a stray tear, “you’ll get through this.”
Jenny nodded in numb detachment, unable to fight the sickening feeling in the pit of her stomach.