By: Siberian
Status: 1/5
Fandom: NCIS
Pairing: Gibbs/McGee
Prompt: Written for the “Very Alternate Universe Challenge” on NFA
Rating: Mature
Summary: Something is happening that the team isn't even aware of. When it turns the world on its axis how will they handle not being able to do anything to fix the problem?
Disclaimer: I wrote this story solely for entertainment. No profit is being made and all rights belong to Donald P. Bellisario and his affiliates. As well as anyone involved in the making of the series.
Notes: This is mainly written from McGee’s point of view with a few sections that are just general scenes. There are mild spoilers up until Season three. This story is also my first venture into this fandom so I hope that it rings true.
Recognition:
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Chapter One
The fresh faced young man walked briskly down the sidewalk. A smile was on his recently kissed the lips. His date had gone really well and he couldn't wait until next Saturday to take her out again. The breeze ruffled his dark bangs traveling to skim across the short hair on top of his head. The wind carried a slight chill and the young men huddled further into the warmth of his coat. His hands digging deeper into his coat pockets. A flickering streetlamp caught his attention just as his ears picked up a noise behind him. The young man steps faltered, the smile slipping from his face as he looked behind him to only see the empty sidewalk.
The young man shook his head slightly and put the noise out of his mind. A few steps further and he heard the noise again. This time he swung around on his feet quickly but again saw nothing. After his eyes scanned the area thoroughly he turned back around and continued on his way home. He was almost there. His steps quickened as his heart rate increased. There was nothing there but he couldn't shake the feeling that someone was after him. The noise came again only this time it was louder and right at his back. The young man spun around, his eyes wide in fear, his breath forming small clouds as it pushed out of his lungs frantically.
There was still nothing there but he knew at this point that he couldn't trust his eyes. There was something in the lamp lit darkness. His eyes scanned the sidewalk frantically as he slowly backed up. The only sounds were his footfalls and hurried breaths. He tried not to think about what was after him but just making it home. Suddenly a metallic clink sounded and his eyes jerked to the right. The culprit turned out to be a sign proclaiming that Loman's Deli had the “world's best coffee”. The young man grew hopeful. He was almost home. That deli was only a few doors down from his apartment. Just as the hopeful feeling had settled in his chest a hand as hard as steel grabbed his arm and pulled him into a small alley.
Within seconds he was held tight against another body. An arm was wrapped around his torso and a hand planted itself over his mouth. He struggled against his attacker and tried screaming around the icy hand. Despite his attempts though barely a muffled sound escaped. The arm around his middle tightened until he no longer had air left to scream. The hand left his mouth and he struggled against the arm with more conviction. He tried again to scream but, a slight wheezing was the only sound his lungs could manage. A deep voice said coldly “Stop moving or I'll crush you.”The tone of the voice confirmed his suspicion that his capture was a male.
A thousand thoughts raced through his mind about what his fate may be. The terror eventually won out as he felt the arm start to tighten even more, effectively cutting off the little bit of oxygen he was managing to inhale. Once he stopped fighting the arm loosened just a fraction under bearable as his captor shifted. He felt like he was going to throw up. The thoughts still racing in his mind spiraling downward into the depths of depravity. There were only so many things that happened to victims in alleys. He heard a pop that seemed out of place. The hand was back in his view only this time it was holding a glass vial with a bright blue liquid. The liquid glowed even in the low light and minute flecks of silver could be seen floating in the substance.
He blinked as he suddenly realized the bottle was moving closer. The few seconds it took for the vile to be lifted to his mouth he managed to clamp his mouth shut. His attacker reacted in kind, and after a hard squeeze that had his jaw-dropping in agony, he found the vile shoved between his lips. The hand was just as hard as before as it forced his head back and used the vile to keep his mouth open. He tried to fight against what was happening but the angle worked in his attacker's favor. After a series of several painful choked swallows he finally could take no more. The world started to fade into darkness just as the building pain started to spread through his limbs. There was of course no way that the young man could know, that at that very moment in different cities all over the world, other men were experiencing the same nightmare.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
With a soft ding and the swoosh of elevator doors McGee was welcomed back to the office. The agent moved across the carpeted floor and settled in at his desk. He was on time but still the last to arrive. Gibbs wasn't at his desk but would no doubt appear out of thin air as soon as Tony said something inappropriate. The senior agent was reclining in his chair and already grousing about his current misfortune. On an assignment last week Tony had taken a nasty fall off an incline and broken his right leg. Ever since he came back from the hospital he hadn’t let them forget. McGee tried to be patient knowing that because of the injury Tony was grounded behind his desk. Paper work becoming his new best friend.
The limited mobility also prevented Tony from going out as frequently on dates. McGee wasn't looking forward to seeing Tony in a libido deprived state. On the opposite end of the spectrum Ziva seemed to be enjoying Tony's forced abstinence and delighted in torturing the senior agent. Ziva's teasing had reached a whole other level. Tony was practically drooling by the time Gibbs walked into the room. Not missing a beat, the older man slapped Tony upside the head, and told him to get to work. McGee pretended to be looking at his computer but let himself watched Gibbs out of the corner of his eye. Gibbs moved over to his desk and slid behind the flat surface with a grace that made McGee envious.
He loved to watch his boss just move about room but it also tended to make him self-conscious. The general line of thought would gravitate toward, if he could move with that much elegance, maybe Gibbs could see him as attractive. McGee knew that Gibbs would never see him that way but McGee found himself needing to hang on to that fragile hope. McGee didn't realize that his subtle staring had become a full on stare until Gibbs looked up from sipping his coffee to meet McGee's gaze. An apology was already stumbling its way to his lips when Gibbs gave him the tiniest of smiles. McGee froze as he felt his eyes widened comically.' What?' was the only thing that went through his mind.
McGee's head dropped down abruptly and he let his gaze hit the pen he was currently holding in a death grip. McGee relaxed his grip when he realized the pen was in serious danger of being broken. Tentatively McGee lifted his head to look at Gibbs but the moment had apparently passed. Gibbs was looking at his own computer and if he had to guess was checking his e-mail. It was one of the few things that caused Gibbs to continuously grumble under his breath. He looked back toward his own screen and had to wonder if maybe he'd imagined the whole incident. Over the next week that thought would prove to be false.
McGee wasn't sure why but a mini floodgate seemed to have opened. Any time that Gibbs met McGee's gaze, while no one was looking, that same small smile would surface. McGee was starting to wonder just what his “stare” a few days ago had really given away. The current case they were working on led to a stake out and for the first time in a long time McGee was not looking forward to being alone with Gibbs. It turned out that McGee had nothing to worry about as Gibbs was all business and McGee took some comfort in the familiar equilibrium. The case was an easy one and they were packing up their equipment in only two days time. Gibbs loaded everything, including McGee, into his car.
As his boss sped to McGee's apartment he concentrated on trying not to fidget. He knew there was no reason to be nervous but for some reason he was practically jumping out of his skin. McGee looked briefly at Gibbs hands loosely gripping the steering wheel. His eyes went back toward the road as he mentally screamed ' What am I doing!' Not really expecting answer even from himself he was a little surprised at the response. 'Calm down Tim. It's just a ride home. Why would Gibbs make you take a cab when you live in the same direction? It's not like it's the first time he's ever given you a ride.' McGee let himself see the logic in that but for some reason his nerves wouldn't settle.
Finally Gibbs pulled into the parking lot of his building and it took every bit of willpower McGee possessed not to just jump out of the car. Gibbs had been nice in giving him a ride and he would not repay that kindness by being rude. McGee was turning slightly to thank Gibbs when he felt a hand settle gently on his wrist. McGee turned to Gibbs and waited for Gibbs next move. When Gibbs spoke it was a whisper as though he knew how fragile the atmosphere was. “Tim. I was wondering....” When Gibbs trailed off it made McGee even more nervous. 'Gibbs didn't know what to say?' Even in thought that statement rang with disbelief.
Gibbs tried again. “I know it would break one of my rules, but I wanted to know if you would like to go out Saturday night.” McGee was shocked into silence and almost lost his chance because of it. Gibbs withdrew his hand and looked straight ahead his jaw clenching. “Forget it McGee. I misread the situation. I won't mention it again.” McGee snapped out of his trance as he could visualize the door of opportunity slamming shut in his face. Reaching out quickly he gently gripped Gibbs’ hand. His long fingers wrapped easily around the white knuckle grip on the gear shift.
“No Gibbs. You didn't misread anything. I was just shocked. I never thought you would break your own rule.” The 'especially for me' was added mentally. That thought did bring up questions, but those could be tackled later. Gibbs gave him a lazy grin. “Well you know what they say? Rules are meant to be broken.” McGee gave a small smile which quickly fell away as Gibbs leaned closer. The intense blue gaze burrowed into his very soul. It was exhilarating as much as it was frightening. McGee only lost contact with the hypnotic stare when Gibbs’ warm lips settled against his own.
Almost in a daze he felt his eyes slip closed as Gibbs gently moved his lips against McGee’s. The other man’s lips were thin and dry. They were a perfect match to his own plump and overly moist lips. Gibbs drank from him in gentle caresses but through it all his mouth remained strong. It was a passive dominance that had McGee trembling. Their lips separated for the briefest of moments for them to draw in air. The distance only came out to barely an inch and McGee had to suppress a moan at the feeling of shared puffs of moist breath.
Gibbs leaned back in reconnecting their mouths a hand coming up to gently cup McGee’s jaw. Automatically McGee leaned into the touch and pressed closer to the other man. Finally McGee could take no more and opened his mouth inviting Gibbs to explore. It was in that moment that Gibbs pulled away. McGee felt a surge of pain at the open rejection. He was just getting ready to pull away completely when he felt the callused fingers gently stroking his jaw. McGee turned to look at Gibbs and found his breath stolen at the look of raw desire etched into every facet of his expression.
McGee looked into the blue eyes to see that the pupils were almost overshadowed by black. He found himself marveling at the fact that Gibbs’ eyes could get even more intense. He really didn’t think it was possible. Gibbs was the one to break the silence. When he spoke his voice was unsteady. The pent up arousal barely being contained in the words. “We have to stop for now. I want to take you out before …we do anything else.” McGee was surprised at how much effort it was taking for Gibbs to calm down. Surprised but pleased.
The hand just now stopped stroking him and fell back to the gear shift. Gibbs looked forward again seeming to be more under control. “You deserve that and more Tim.” McGee didn’t think he’d ever been shocked so many times in a single night, but at the same time that feeling was dwarfed by the warm feeling that had taken residence in his chest.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
McGee walked back to his apartment replaying the last few minutes he’d shared with Gibbs. When he finally entered his apartment he leaned back against his door and let his eyes fall shut. A sigh escaped as a happy smile slipped onto his face. He stayed there for a moment more until he realized that something was pinching his groin. McGee looked down and felt his eyes widen in embarrassment. It was no wonder he was uncomfortable considering the size of the erection straining against his pants. McGee wasn’t embarrassed by his reaction to Gibbs but more by the fact that he’d walked up to his apartment leisurely in such a state.
His mind quickly ran through the short journey and he sighed in relief when he didn’t remember seeing anyone. Looking at his watch he wasn’t surprised. It was ,after all, three in the morning. Pushing away from the door McGee dropped his belongings on the couch and headed in the bedroom. He closed the door without even looking at it and started to undress. Even as tired as he was McGee could feel his blood heat as his clothes came off. He started to let the fantasies he’d harbored about Gibbs meld into his newly acquired real life experience.
The fantasies now included callused hands skimming up and down his body. McGee felt himself shiver as he stripped himself down to his boxers. He let the heel of his palm press against his aching hardness. A moan tried to escape but McGee stopped it from leaving his throat as he moved quickly toward the bed. Lying down on top of the bedspread McGee spread his legs and continued to touch himself through his boxers. His other hand went even further downward to skim up and down his inner thigh. The hands on his body were suddenly not his own but that of the man who’d fueled so many of his fantasies.
He wanted to come badly but had the distinct feeling that Gibbs would make him wait for completion. In truth McGee also couldn’t deny that delaying tended to make his orgasm more powerful. He closed his eyes and turned his face into his pillow. Small breaths escaped his parted lips. His hand rubbed against the cotton in small gentle strokes before rubbing more roughly. He alternated that pattern before gripping his erection hard. McGee gave a rough intake of breath as his hips lifted off the mattress. As his hips reconnected with the bed both of his hands moved to the waistband of his boxers.
His fingertips danced briefly at the line of skin just above the elastic barrier before he let a few digits hook in the elastic band. The fingers skimmed over his skin as he slowly pulled the fabric down his hips. He hissed slightly as the descending fabric grazed the sensitive flesh of his member. He only paused briefly to once again lift his hips, the strain of the position settling into his shoulders, so that he could push the boxers down to his thighs. He shuddered as he lay back down and used his right hand to rip the boxers the rest of the way off.
McGee spread his legs wide once more as he imagined hardened thighs keeping them spread apart. A flush of heat suffused his cheeks at the mental image. He lifted his left hand to let it play in a fluttering disjointed pattern on his chest. The right hand moved steadily toward his groin. The fingers stilled momentarily at the start of the dark auburn curls and he let himself just take in the texture of his skin. After a few moments he reached down and whimpered as his hand finally closed around his member.
His head thrashed a few times on his pillow as he started to stroke his length gently. The new path was made easy by the pre-come leaking steadily out of the bright red tip. Trails of moisture already present coating his member thoroughly with the application of McGee’s hand. The strokes became rougher as a twisting motion was added in sporadically. McGee could feel his hips trying to lift off the bed but let the imaginary weight of his lover pin them down.
The end was drawing closer but McGee didn’t let it crest just yet. At the very edge of his endurance he forced his hand away from his arousal. Both of his hands gripped the comforter, McGee not caring for the moment that pre-come was being smeared into the fabric. A few minutes with some deep breaths calmed him enough to prevent his orgasm. One hand released the comforter and moved back toward his arousal. The sticky digits bypassed where he really wanted the hand to go and instead gently palmed the tight sack at the base of his erection.
McGee moaned loudly trying halfway through the noise to muffle the sound by biting his lips. He let his fingers palm the delicate surface in a loose wide grip. The hand then closed into a loose fist and his index finger made a gentle line in between the two sensitive globes. McGee’s toes curled at the motion. His head pressing back into the pillow. McGee released a fevered sob and let the touch move up until he had his erection once more in his grip. The touch lacked all softness this time. His grip hard and the pace fast. Still it didn’t seem to be enough.
McGee could see the intense eyes of his lover pouring over his body. McGee knew he needed just a little more and it would all be over. That was the moment he imagined Gibbs pushing steadily into his body. His hips angled upward as he could practically feel his muscles stretching for the other man. The callused hands gripped McGee’s thighs as the imagined feeling of fullness pushed him over the edge. McGee tensed all over as his orgasm tore through his body.
His hand gripped his member to almost the point of pain. The hot evidence of his release bathing his lower half. A continuous moan filled the bedroom. The sound only ending when McGee spasmed and choked down some saliva that had gathered in this mouth. McGee moved his hand away shakily just letting his body ride out the small tremors still shaking his frame. He maintained the splayed position of his legs until he felt a chill pass over his skin when the air conditioning kicked on.
Moving slowly he closed his legs and stretched them out until his toes were pointing to the end of the mattress. Reaching toward his end table he grabbed a tissue and sleepily cleaned away the fluid coating his body. Once he finished the dirtied tissue was tossed carelessly on the end table. He rolled just enough to be able to grab the comforter and crawled underneath the warmer linens. It took only a few minutes in the warm cocoon of bedding for McGee to fall asleep. A happy little smile gracing his features even in slumber.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
He stepped forward and was greeted by a nod. He reciprocated in kind before looking forward and waiting for the elders to arrive. The wait was short as in only a moment’s time the three elders arrived at their appointed meeting place. The oldest of them took his rightful place in between his two companions and spoke for the group. His voice was devoid of all feeling which lent it a coldness that few could imitate. “Have you become settled in your new lives?”
The standard first question. He had heard them so many times he could recite them without thought. “Yes” was the response given by himself and the other present. “Have you chosen a female?” He hadn’t yet but answered yes anyway. There was plenty of time and no need to get them worried. He would complete his mission. He always did. “Good. That is what we were hoping to hear. This time we are on a limited schedule. You only have roughly four months to start your mission.”
His eyes widened just slightly. This was new. He could feel the other’s curiosity so he asked what they were both thinking. “Why so soon? The normal adjustment time is a year.” The elders looked as disgusted as their impassive faces would allow. “They are catching up.” He could feel his jaw tighten. Of course they were the cause. What other reason could there be. “We must complete our mission before they can interfere.” His temper was flaring but he quickly stoppered the rare volatile reaction.
“May I ask something?” When a nod of approval was given he continued. “Why do we run from them? Why do we not take measures to stop them? If we continue on this path I fear that we will lose all that we hold dear.” The elders looked as though they were thinking on his words but he could tell they were just humoring him. After so many years the passivity of their expressions hid nothing from his observant gaze. The elder spoke again. “This is the only way. We must wait until we are sure to have the upper hand. We cannot fight until we are sure to be successful.”
He bowed his head in acceptance of their answer but truly thought them to be ignorant. It was no wonder they were in this situation to begin with. “You are both dismissed. We expect a report on your progress in two weeks time.” Giving another bow he turned and left the room. The other only coming up from his bow as he lost sight of the room’s occupants. Only four months? How would they be able to complete their mission in so little time?
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
McGee was worried. He didn’t know what he had been expecting when he came to work the next morning. This was, however, not it. Gibbs was acting as if nothing was different. That really shouldn’t surprise him. Gibbs was after all known for his job dedication, but still McGee thought that something would at least feel different. They were office bound at the moment, as surprisingly, there were no new cases to solve. It had been strangely quite the last few weeks and they had found themselves actually having time to catch up on paperwork.
Well at least the active field agents. Tony with his broken leg had caught up last week. The senior agent now spent his time pretending to work and playing computer games whenever Gibbs left the room. It was actually kind of funny to witness the constant scanning Tony did to make sure Gibbs wasn’t in sight. McGee knew that he should be enjoying the down time. It wasn’t often that they got a break, but he just couldn’t settle his nerves.
Whether Gibbs was in the room or not roiling thoughts destroyed any calm he tried to obtain. His biggest fear being that maybe Gibbs had changed his mind. Maybe he regretted ever kissing McGee in the first place. His thoughts continued their torturous cycle the rest of the work day. By the time he was ready to go home McGee was practically crawling in his own skin. A hot bath, some tea, and an Excedrin were calling his name. Anything really to alleviate the stress in his muscles and the headache pounding against his temples.
He logged off of his computer and turned off the lamp on his desk. Ziva escorted Tony out of the building a few minutes prior to give him a ride home. The members of the team, who drove at least, had taken turns giving Tony a ride home. The cast made it impossible for Tony to drive. It was yet another thing that DiNozzo had been lamenting the loss of. McGee grabbed his jacket before walking around to the front of his desk. He stopped short a moment later when someone stepped in his path.
His gaze went upward to connect with that of Gibbs. The older man gave him the soft smile that McGee had been craving all day. “I wanted to know what time to pick you up Saturday night?” McGee stared dumbly for a few moments, his mouth partially open, and his blinking eyes being the only movement he managed. Gibbs let his grin widen. “Tim, you do still want to go out Saturday night?” McGee jerked slightly at the use of his given name. It seemed even more surreal hearing it in the office then it did in Gibbs’ car last night. He couldn’t say why but it seemed more scandalous hearing it at work.
McGee nodded his head in agreement trying to stall the need for using his voice. Gibbs gave him a full grin and moved a little closer. “Great, how is seven?” McGee licked his dry lips with a flick of his tongue and finally managed a verbal response. “That’s great. Just great. I’ll see you Saturday. At seven.” McGee wanted to smack himself upside the head. ‘Way to go genius. That was real smooth Tim. Real smooth.’ Gibbs didn’t let the smile slip as he left McGee and grabbed his things from behind his desk.
Once everything was gathered up he headed toward the elevator only to stop a little past Ziva’s desk. “McGee are you coming?” McGee practically tripped over his own two feet as he started toward the other man. As soon as he was alongside Gibbs they started toward the elevators. The rest of the trip down to the parking lot was made in a comfortable silence. McGee noticing how close Gibbs stood next to him in the spacious elevator. When they were at Gibbs’ car McGee made to leave for the bus station. Gibbs voice caused him to pause before he could make it more than two steps.
“Did you want a ride home?” McGee wasn’t sure if it was a good idea. He was no doubt going to embarrass himself again, but quickly realized that denying Gibbs anything was out of the question. ‘Man, I’m in trouble.’ Even as he thought that though he couldn’t help but think that Gibbs was one of the few people in the world who he could trust to protect him from all harm. “You’re sure you don’t mind? I know you probably want to get home.” Gibbs didn’t respond but climbed into the driver’s seat of his vehicle.
McGee felt disappointed but understood. I mean it was in the same direction but was still a little out of the way. Just as he was turning to leave he heard the lock pop on the passenger door of Gibbs’ car. He stood frozen until Gibbs rolled down the passenger window. “Are you coming? I would like to get home before we have to come back McGee.” That had the desired effect and McGee moved quickly to the car. “Oh, of course. Sorry boss.”
McGee got in, and as soon as the lock clicked in his seat belt, Gibbs sped off in the direction of McGee’s apartment. The comfortable silence descended again. McGee’s apartment coming into view a little too soon for the young agent. When the car stopped McGee un-clicked his seat belt and grabbed his things before going to open the door. With his hand on the handle he turned to look at Gibbs the words of farewell dying on his lips when he saw the intense longing shining in the other man’s eyes. “Boss?”
McGee didn’t know what to say. ‘Did Gibbs want to kiss him again? If he does, what is he waiting for?’ The silence continued for another moment before Gibbs looked forward. “I want to kiss you Tim, but I’m not going to.” McGee went to ask why but Gibbs beat him to the punch. “I want to do this right. I want to take you out. I want to treat you right. I’m not going to kiss you again until at least our first date and I’m not going to invite you to stay at my place until I’m sure it’s appropriate. This isn’t going to be a onetime thing. I want you to understand that. If that’s all you want then tell me now and I’ll back off.”
Only then did Gibbs turn back to look at McGee. He didn’t know what to say at first. ‘He wants to have a relationship? With me?’ McGee felt a soft smile slip onto his face. “I’m more then fine with that Bo… Jethro?” He let the name become a question. They hadn’t really gotten that far yet. Gibbs grinned. Amusement coloring his features. “Jethro is just fine Tim.” McGee smiled again and looked down at his hands suddenly feeling embarrassed. He watched as Gibbs’ right hand covered both of his and looked up again in response to the gentle touch.
The smile faltered slightly when he saw the look of seriousness on Gibbs’ face. ‘What did I miss?’ Gibbs seemed to be choosing his words carefully and McGee felt dread creep up his spine. Gibbs only choose his words when it was a very serious matter and not even then sometimes. “Tim there is one more thing you have to understand. Whatever happens between us has to stay out of the office. I can’t treat you differently from my other agents, and I can’t have you being familiar with me where it might raise questions. At work I’m not Jethro I’m Gibbs and you’re not Tim but McGee.”
McGee let out a shaky breath. ‘Was that it?’ McGee let the smile return full force. “It’s not going to be a problem Jethro. I wouldn’t expect anything less.” Although there was no facial reaction McGee had the feeling that Gibbs was just as relieved as he felt when McGee took what he had to say with a grain of salt. Staring at each other in mutual contentedness Gibbs broke the moment by withdrawing his hand. “I should let you go. It’s getting late.” McGee once again reached for the door handle and with a goodbye exited the car. He let himself into his building pretending not to notice that Gibbs waited for him to be safely inside before leaving.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
McGee looked in his full length mirror for the twentieth time in an hour. It was Saturday. Gibbs would be picking him up in an hour and McGee had already tried on every suit he owned. Gibbs had told him on Friday night after work to dress up for their date on Saturday. McGee looked at his image with disgust. Not only were most of his suits not very high quality but Gibbs had seen just about everything he owned. ‘I wish I’d have thought to buy another suit for tonight.’ McGee rolled his eyes at his reflection and walked away. The suit he had on would have to do.
He only got an inch past the doorframe before going back in his bedroom to change his tie. ‘This is it. No more changes. It’s pretty bad when I’m driving myself crazy.’ Once that was done McGee forced himself into his living room to wait for Gibbs to arrive. He tried sitting on the couch but felt his nervousness increase by the minute. Thinking it over he decided a distraction was needed to pass the time. Getting up he went to his desk and turned on his computer. Once the machine was done with the start up process McGee logged into his favorite MMORPG.
Now that he had less than an hour before Gibbs would arrive he worked on small side quests. The main quests tended to take much longer and he didn’t want to lose his progress if he couldn’t finish. He lost himself in the game only to remerge into reality at a knock at his door. McGee looked at the lower right hand corner of his computer to see the time was seven. He logged off the game quickly before heading to the door. A glance through the peephole confirmed that his date was on the other side of his front door. He opened the door with a greeting on his lips but was forestalled by Gibbs. All in the span of a moment Gibbs had grinned, as his eyes traveled the length of McGee. “You look great Tim.” Suddenly all the obsessing in front of his mirror was more than worth the effort.
A twenty minute drive brought them to an average looking brick building. Gibbs parked across the street in a separate lot. McGee was surprised at not only the gate guard but the ticket Gibbs was handed. ‘How nice could a restaurant be if they made the patrons pay for parking?’ He couldn’t help himself and gave voice to his thoughts. “I can’t believe they make you pay for parking.” Gibbs unbuckled his seatbelt then popped the parking pass into an inside pocket of his coat.
“They don’t charge for parking. This restaurant is very exclusive and this is just another security measure. I wanted us to be comfortable and a friend recommended this place. This restaurant is known for its discretion.” They exited the vehicle and walked across the street to the restaurant. Walking through a set of deep mahogany doors they continued down a short hallway to a host standing behind a podium. McGee realized just how exclusive the restaurant was when he asked for Gibbs’ ID to confirm their reservation.
While the host looked up their reservation McGee took in his surroundings. The hallway was decorated in dark masculine tones. The floor was a deep color hardwood, the walls were wallpapered in a green striped design, and there were big black sofas on each side of the entryway. A soft tune that McGee didn’t recognize drifted from the area behind the host. McGee was pulled from his observations by the formal man. “Gentleman, right this way.”
McGee followed next to Gibbs as they were led down another short hallway to the right. The hallway opened up into a massive room. Along the right wall was a bar. In front of that area were coaches and chairs where people were engaged in conversation. On the left side of the room were numerous tables that wrapped around a dance floor. To the right, beyond the bar and seating areas, there were more tables.
The room was decorated in a similar fashion as the hallway. The flooring, wallpaper, and furniture were all the same. The central lighting was low but the table’s emitted soft points of light with the use of candles. The overall feel of the room was that of a gentleman’s club from the late 40’s or early 50’s. Even so the restaurant still managed to feel romantic. The host led them to a private table toward the back. When they passed closer to the dance floor McGee almost tripped over his own two feet in surprise.
The couples on the dance floor consisted of not only men and women but also same sex couples. Seeing them put him even more at ease. Gibbs had selected a place where they could let down all their guards and just enjoy their evening. The nervousness was still present but he knew that was just simply from being with Gibbs. They sat down and started to look over the menu. McGee scanned over a few items before he noticed the prices.
A rather undignified sound escaped him as he choked on his own saliva. He expected the restaurant to be expensive but this was way beyond what he could have imagined. Suddenly he felt guilty thinking about Gibbs paying what would no doubt be an outrageous bill. “Hey Bos…Jethro. We’re going Dutch on this, right?” Gibbs kept scanning the menu. “No, I’m buying. I’m the one who asked you out.” McGee shifted slightly in his seat.
“Jethro, this place is really nice, but these prices are crazy. I can pay for myself.” Gibbs lowered his menu slowly giving McGee a blank look. “I’m paying for dinner. I asked you out. I picked the restaurant. I’ve got it covered.” Gibbs looked back down to his menu. McGee looked to his own again trying to find the cheapest item they served. Exercising his mind reading skills Gibbs obliterated McGee’s plans. “Order whatever you want. The price doesn’t matter. And just so you know, if you try to order just a salad, I’ll just order for you. Contrary to what most of you believe my alimony checks don’t leave me broke at the end of the month. NCIS pays very well.”
McGee’s cheeks reddened at that as memories sprang to mind about the team’s comments regarding Gibbs’ finances. Particularly Tony’s comment about why Gibbs chose to build his boat. The waiter came over a few minutes later to take their order. McGee wisely ordered the steak dinner. He looked to Gibbs for his reaction but Gibbs took no notice. The older man looked more concerned with placing his own order. “I would like the prime rib dinner. Also bring us a bottle of Bordeaux. Do you have a suggestion for the year?”
The waiter responded as McGee tried not to panic. “The Chateau Lynch Bages has been described as exquisite by several of our patrons.” Gibbs nodded once in approval as he handed over the menu. “That sounds great. Thank you.” The waiter left with both of their menus. Gibbs looked at him and smiled softly. “This is a special occasion Tim. Try to stop worrying and just let me spoil you. I’ve wanted to bring you here for a long time.” Gibbs’ hand reached across the table to gently lay on top of McGee’s.
Despite himself McGee felt some of the tension leave his body. The wine arrived shortly after they placed their order. McGee could smell the wine as it was poured into his glass. Once they were both served he took a sip and felt it practically caress his tongue. McGee could only imagine how expensive it was but he couldn’t deny how much he was enjoying the wine. Gibbs closed his eyes briefly as he took a small drink. The relaxation of his features conveying his own unspoken pleasure.
The comfortable silence soon became small talk. They spoke about anything and everything. The miniscule topics sound tracked by melodies from varying decades. The conversation eventually interrupted by the arrival of their dinner. The food was just as fantastic. McGee could honestly say he had never tasted a steak so good before. They both finished their dinner and picked up the light conversation from earlier. Once the plates were taken away Gibbs ordered them both chocolate mousse for desert.
It had been recommended by Gibbs’ friend, and seeing as how he hadn’t steered them wrong yet, they decided to try the desert. It was just as delicious as everything else they had eaten. A truly perfect end to a wonderful meal. They were still working on their dessert when a different song started to play. Gibbs leaned back in his chair as a wistful sigh escaped his lips. “I love this song. Good old Glenn Miller.” McGee had never heard the song before and became curious as to what it was.
He knew so little of Gibbs’ personal likes and dislikes that he jumped at the chance to learn anything he could. “I’ve never heard it before, what is it?” Gibbs turned his gaze to the couples on the dance floor. “It’s called Moonlight Serenade.” Gibbs continued to watch the dance floor for a few more moments before meeting McGee’s gaze. “Would you like to dance?” McGee’s eyes widened slightly. “I’m a terrible dancer. I really don’t even know how to dance.”
Gibbs just smiled and leaned closer to McGee. “That’s no problem. No one is going to be watching us anyway.” McGee put down his fork using a sip of his wine to steady his nerves. “I just know that I’ll step on your feet.” Gibbs stood up, walked the short distance to McGee’s side, and held out his hand. “I think I’ll risk it.” McGee was still unsure but took Gibbs’ hand regardless. If it made Gibbs happy then he was willing to try. Gibbs led him to the dance floor where he did a pivot on his left foot so that he faced McGee and was able to wrap strong arms around him in one graceful motion.
Gibbs drew McGee a little closer letting the swaying of his body help guide the younger man. It took barely two steps before McGee landed on Gibbs’ right foot. McGee automatically pulled away. His emotions a mixture of embarrassment and worry that Gibbs had been hurt. Gibbs did the opposite of what he expected though when he gripped McGee closer preventing any escape. “I barely felt it” was all that was said. McGee didn’t really believe him but couldn’t bring himself to try to pull away again. He’d wanted this closeness for far too long.
As he relaxed he could feel the music sweeping through his limbs. The song was smooth, romantic, and sophisticated. He could understand why Gibbs loved it so much. It was a good fit for the man Gibbs really was without the hard edges of his Marine Corp training. McGee flinched when he stepped on Gibbs’ toes again but the other man just continued to dance. McGee moistened his lips as he prepared to ask a question he hoped wouldn’t cause offense. “Jethro, I have to admit, I’m a little surprised you even like to dance. Let alone how good you are. Where did you learn?”
Gibbs pulled McGee closer letting his head drop closer to McGee’s neck. McGee gulped slightly as Gibbs’ body heat slowly melded with his own. He shivered as the response was whispered in his ear. “Being in special ops there are certain skills that need to be learned. How to dance was one of the easier skills.” Gibbs maintained the hold until the song was over then led McGee back to their table. They finished their dessert in a comfortable silence. A silence that lasted until McGee was in front of his door fiddling nervously with his key.
Gathering a breath McGee forced himself to put an end to their perfect evening. “Well, I should probably get to sleep. Thank you, Jethro. Tonight was wonderful. I had a really great time.” Gibbs didn’t speak but started to lean in. McGee froze letting Gibbs settle his lips against his own. The kiss was backed by passion but was feather light. It was also over in a moment’s time. McGee opened his eyes when Gibbs pulled away. Not quite knowing what to say McGee turned toward the door to fumble with the lock.
After a moment the door was open and McGee was half way inside his entryway. “Well good-night.” McGee went to close the door when Gibbs finally spoke. “Tim.” McGee waited for him to continue his hand on the door. Gibbs leaned against the outside doorframe on one hand. “Would you like to go out Saturday night?” McGee let a smile split his lips. “Yes, I’d love to.” Gibbs grinned that mischievous grin that few ever got to see before responding. “Great. I’ll pick you up at seven. Good-night.”
Gibbs turned to leave letting McGee’s good bye filter through the hallway in the wake of his departure. McGee locked his door then walked toward his bedroom. Halfway through the journey he started to hum what he could remember of Moonlight Serenade. He felt giddy with happiness, which turned his normally mundane act of undressing, into silly fun as he danced around his bedroom. The impromptu dancing and humming only ended when he flopped down on his comforter in his pajamas. He laughed at his own childish antics but knew that by tomorrow Moonlight Serenade would be downloaded to his hard drive.
TBC...
Next
Back
Fiction Categories
Main Page
