AN: Thanks to Jen for being awesome, as always. I've been out of practice for awhile - I merely hope this doesn't suck.

It was the flick of the red fabric as it moved against her lower legs which caught his attention.

Tony managed to pull his eyes away from the computer screen to truly watch his partner as she finished putting an earring in.

Her hair, curled and slightly shorter than he'd seen recently, seemed to drape and frame her shoulders and her dark tresses enhanced the bright red fabric of her dress.

He let out a low wolf whistle, causing her to turn and throw him a somewhat reluctant smile.

"I thought you were going home," she said.

"Decided to finish this report," he said casually, standing and moving to lean against the front of his desk so he could appraise her openly. "And suddenly I'm very glad I did!"

Ziva reached into her purse, one accessory Tony rarely saw her carry, and pulled out her keys. "I am the same person you were climbing in a dumpster with four hours ago. Just because I'm wearing a new dress does not mean I appreciate being appraised like a shiny new car, Tony." she said softly, trying to rein in her temper. "And if you continue to do so, I will have to remind you how much pain I can cause merely with office-supplies."

He visibly flinched at her words, not accustomed to being reprimanded for openly appreciating her beauty. Their relationship was based on open flirting; it's what they did best. He couldn't help but wonder where this sudden change came from.

Tony cleared his throat. "Who's the lucky guy?" he said, hoping it was a harmless enough question.

She shouldered the purse and regarded him warily. "Damon."

"Werth?"

"Yes."

"You're going out with Werth."

"That is what I said, Tony," she said, rolling her eyes as she turned and started towards the elevator.

"But…"

The ding of the elevator made him blink his gaze back into focus and he watched as she stepped into the car.

She studiously avoided his curious gaze as the doors slid shut.