A/N: I should probably have said from the beginning that these are based in no particular order or in any particular season. I have not seen any of the new seasons with Bishop and therefore, at this stage, she will not appear in any of my stories.
Abby may need a bit of a strong hand in this one but there is no character hate or offense intended.

OMG, how long has it been since I last updated this? Over 3 years! Yikes! It was never my intention for it to be so long but real life has thrown some mega curveballs my way. You can thank my internet provider for having a fault today and I needed something to distract me from being ill!

I can't promise when the next update will be but I will try not to leave it another 3 years!

F is for Fire

"Gibbs, Gibbs, Gibbs!"

The Team Leader looked up from his desk as Abby ran, or rather clomped, to his desk, tears streaming down her cheeks as she shouted for him.

"Abs, what's wrong?" he demanded as he got up to meet her and was nearly flattened as she threw herself at him. He wrapped his arms around her.

Tony and Ziva both stood up and moved out from behind their desks, faces creased with worry. Abby could be extremely emotional and sometimes the things that upset her were a little… unique. This didn't look like one of those times. The rest of the bullpen had descended into silence.

"Come on Abs, calm down," Gibbs ran a hand up and down her back trying to soothe her, "Tell me what's wrong."

"Timmy… he's…" she couldn't get any more words out because she erupted into another round of sobs.

"Abby, McGee is at a writer's convention in Philadelphia," Ziva reminded the Goth gently.

Tim had asked for a couple of days leave to be able to attend. His publisher was quite insistent that he actually do some promotional work for his latest book. The team had been a little unnerved when they found out he was writing again but he had changed his focus from writing about NCIS cases to writing fantasy books for teenagers. Tony had naturally spent a good deal of time teasing him about the fact he was writing about Elf Lords and Fairies; Ziva had simply smiled her encouragement and Gibbs… well Gibbs had just given one of his enigmatic half smiles, signed the leave request and gone back to work.

"He's been hurt!" wailed Abby, as if Ziva hadn't spoken.

"Good heavens, whatever is the matter Abigail?" asked Ducky as he approached the team area. He'd received a call from Agent Balboa asking him to come to the bullpen because Abby was hysterical and he was worried she was going to make herself ill.

"Ducky, Timmy's been hurt!"

"Abs, you need to calm down and tell me what's happened. Now!" ordered Gibbs, pushing the distraught woman away from him and holding her by the tops of her arms.

"I was in my lab," she gulped as she tried to speak through her tears, "A news report came on ZNN on the plasma."

"Tony…"

"On it Boss," the SFA grabbed the remote for their plasma and switched it to the news feed for ZNN.

"I didn't notice at first because I had my music on but I caught a picture out of the corner of my eye. It was Timmy!"

Gibbs glanced at Ducky, unsure how to get the information he needed from her because right at that moment she wasn't really making much sense. Then he looked up at the plasma and saw a picture of his agent.

"Turn up the sound."

Tony complied and the whole bullpen heard the report.

"In the early hours of this morning a fire in a downtown hotel in Philadelphia left a building in smouldering ruins, seven people dead and dozens more injured. One of the injured is bestselling author Thom E. Gemcity. He was in town for the Writer's Convention being held at the Pennsylvania Convention Center. Eye witnesses say that Mr Gemcity was helping evacuate the building when a wall collapsed leaving him trapped inside. A spokesperson for the Thomas Jefferson University Hospital has issued a statement advising that Mr Gemcity is in a stable but serious condition…"

Tony switched the plasma off and the bullpen was silent except for the sound of Abby crying. The relative silence was broken by Director Vance, who had been alerted by his assistant that something was going on and had come down the stairs in time to hear the report.

"Agent Gibbs, my office," the Director ordered, "All of your team, the rest of you, back to work please. We'll keep you updated as we find out more on Agent McGee's condition."

A murmur filled the area as agents returned to their work, but discussed the news report, wondering what had actually taken place. McGee was a well-liked member of the agency, so to hear that he'd been injured while off duty was disconcerting at best.

The MCRT, along with Ducky and Abby trooped up to the Director's office, after the ME had called down to Autopsy and requested his assistant's presence as well. A confused Jimmy joined the rest of the team around the Director's conference table. Ducky quickly filled the young man in as the Director waited for his assistant to put a call through to him, having asked her to get him someone at the Philadelphia Police Department.

"Director Vance, this is Captain Duane, how can I help NCIS today?"

"Captain Duane, thank you for taking my call. I have you on speaker with the members of my Major Case Response Team. One of our agents was injured at the hotel fire this morning."

"I'm sorry to hear that Director, I haven't been informed that an NCIS agent was injured. I would have called to notify you had I been aware."

"He was in town for personal reasons and was registered as Thom E. Gemcity…"

"The writer?!"

"That's correct. What can you tell me about the fire?"

"The alarm was raised at approximately two thirty this morning. The hotel has 250 rooms and thanks to the convention they were fully booked, that meant a total of nearly 400 guests. The fire department is still putting out hot spots but some of the guests have reported smelling gas shortly before the alarm was raised. They suspect a faulty gas line but we won't know more for probably a couple of days. Your man…"

"Agent Timothy McGee."

"Agent McGee… hotel records show that he was in a suite on the top floor. Eye witnesses report that he went through helping to clear each of the ten floors. Unfortunately the fire had severely damaged one of the external walls and it collapsed, blocking the fire exit and trapping several people inside, including your Agent McGee. When fire fighters reached the group they were all unconscious. He had no ID on him but one of the EMTs recognised him as Thom E. Gemcity."

"Do you know what his condition is?"

"I have several officers at the hospital, the last update I received all the survivors were being treated for smoke inhalation, various broken bones and burns. I'm sorry I can't give you a specific update on Agent McGee."

"That's alright; the news report said there were seven dead and dozens injured."

"The death toll is actually now ten," the Captain informed them sadly, "As I said the fire department are still putting out hotspots and searching the rubble, though according to the hotel all guests and employees have now been accounted for. There are over a hundred injured; at last count twenty of them are in serious condition; including Agent McGee."

"Is there someone that we can contact at the hospital for an update?"

"The Chief of Staff there is Doctor Frances; she may be able to give you some information."

"Thank you Captain Duane, I appreciate you taking the time to speak to us. I'll let you get back to it."

"If I can be of any further help then please let me know. I hope Agent McGee is OK."

The call ended and Director Vance immediately asked his assistant to see if she could reach Doctor Frances at the Thomas Jefferson University Hospital.

-NCIS-

It had taken longer than any of the NCIS team wanted to locate Doctor Frances but given that TJU Hospital was one of the hospitals closest to the hotel, it was likely that she had been busy with more important things than taking phone calls.

Not unexpectedly she wouldn't give them much information over the phone. Since Tim had been registered as Thom E. Gemcity at the hotel and there was no ID stating that he was Timothy McGee, she had to respect the rules that said she couldn't give out information, especially given the fact that he was somewhat in the public eye. She did confirm that he was stable, though his condition was serious.

The Director hung up after thanking her and stating that he would be sending someone with proof of Tim's true identity as well as contacting his family.

"Leon…"

Vance held up a hand, "I know what you're going to say Jethro. Yes, I will release you, DiNozzo and David to go to Philadelphia. You're working cold cases today and you have this weekend off but I expect you all back in the office Monday."

"What about me?!" demanded Abby.

"I'm sorry Miss Sciuto but you are currently working on evidence from Agent Balboa's case which is time sensitive. I can't release you to go right now."

"But…"

"As soon as you have finished processing the evidence you can go, but not until then," Vance's voice took on a note of steel. He knew this team were close, but Abby didn't work solely for the MCRT and there were other considerations.

"She'll be in no fit state to drive herself two and a half hours Director," Tony stated.

"I understand how difficult this is," Vance told them, "But we have a job to do and I'm sure Agent McGee wouldn't want a case to suffer…"

"We'll wait for you Abs and go when you're done," Gibbs told her.

Abby wasn't the most mature of people at times, especially when her emotions got the best of her, so selfishly she just thanked Gibbs and looked relieved.

Ducky shook his head at the fact that, once again, Timothy was lower on the list, even when injured, than the emotional Goth, "Director, there are no autopsies to be done at the moment, I would very much like to go to Philadelphia."

"I'll stay here just in case an ME is required," Jimmy piped up. He wasn't as close to Tim as he was Tony, but he hated the idea of him being left alone in that hospital and if by volunteering to stay Ducky could go, then that was alright with him.

"Thank you Mr Palmer," Vance smiled at the younger man, relieved that someone was putting McGee's needs first, "Very well Doctor Mallard, you may go. I suggest you take a copy of Agent McGee's personnel file and his medical records as well. Please keep me updated."

"We do not all need to stay and wait for Abby, surely?" asked Ziva, "It will only require one of us to drive her, yes?" the Israeli was not happy at having to wait.

"I need to contact his family, so I suggest you take this discussion elsewhere," ordered Vance.

The others got up to leave and filed out quietly, at least for them and headed for Abby's lab to continue their discussion. Ducky would wait for the outcome as it would be easier to travel together if someone else was going.

-NCIS-

Ducky stood in Abby's lab listening to the discussion going on about whether they should all stay and wait for Abby. He had already made it clear that he was going regardless. Ziva seemed to want to go now, Tony appeared to be torn. He was rather grateful when his cell rang because he was about to tell them all exactly what he thought, which was probably not the best way to go about things.

"Doctor Mallard."

"Ducky, I was wondering if you'd left yet."

"No Director, there is still some… discussion going on."

"I see. Well I was wondering if you could go by Waverley to pick up Agent McGee's sister. Admiral McGee is on an aircraft carrier which happens to be in the middle of a bad storm and his mother is away on some retreat without cell service and I haven't been able to reach Ms Langston."

"I would be happy to collect Sarah and take her with me," replied Ducky, glaring at the still arguing team.

"Thank you Ducky. Please keep me informed once you arrive."

"Of course," Ducky hung up and cleared his throat, getting the attention of the others, "I am going to collect Timothy's personnel and medical files then I am leaving to collect his sister, as his parents and Grandmother are unavailable. When you have finished squabbling like children then please let me know what you decide, because I will wait no longer!" with that said he turned and left.

"I will go with Ducky," Ziva informed the others and hurried to go after him.

"Boss, you should go, I'll wait with Abby."

"No need if Ducky, Ziva and Sarah are going, I can wait."

"What? Boss, come on. Probie needs you."

"He's got his family DiNozzo, he doesn't need me."

"Didn't you hear Ducky say that his parents aren't coming?"

"Sarah will be there. It's not like I'm not going, I'll be there once Abby's done here."

"Unbelievable," muttered Tony. He knew there were times he and Tim didn't get along but his Probie was hurt and he would need the team's support, as would Sarah. The SFA stood up straighter and looked at his boss, "Well I'm not going to wait around then, I'm going with Ducky," he turned on his heel and walked out of the lab.

"DiNozzo!"

"Yeah Boss?" Tony hoped that perhaps Gibbs had changed his mind. It's not that Tony wanted to wait to see McGee but he really thought it would be better for Gibbs to go.

"Call when you know anything."

"Right," he sighed and left.

Abby gave Gibbs a watery smile of thanks and then turned her attention back to the evidence. Gibbs planted a kiss on her temple before disappearing to get some coffee.

-NCIS-

Ducky, Tony, Ziva and Sarah arrived at the hospital having made good time, though Tony had banned Ziva from driving since they needed to make the journey in one piece. They presented themselves at the front desk but Ducky did the talking.

"Hello my dear," the ME smiled at the rather harassed looking lady behind the desk, "I was wondering if you could be of assistance. A friend of mine was brought in following that terrible hotel fire and I would like to get an update on his condition."

"Name?"

"Timothy McGee, but you have him registered as Thom E. Gemcity…"

"Oh for heavens' sake, don't you people ever give up?!" the woman behind the desk threw her hands up in frustration, "I'm going to tell you the same thing I told the other reporters, we can't and won't, give out any information on a patient's condition to anyone but family! No matter how much money you offer!"

"Oh, we're not reporters…"

"A likely story."

"Could you possibly ask Doctor Frances to come and meet with us? We've spoken to her on the phone and explained the situation."

"Doctor Frances has better things to do than talk to reporters! Another statement will be issued in a couple of hours, until then move aside and let people with genuine enquiries through!" The woman turned away from them, ignoring Ducky's protests.

"Let me call Director Vance, perhaps he can get hold of Doctor Frances," suggested Tony.

"A good idea Anthony," agreed Ducky, frustrated at the lack of progress.

Ten minutes later a woman was striding across the atrium. She was probably in her fifties; with dark brown hair with grey streaks running through pulled back in a bun. Her brown eyes searched the area before falling on the small group and approaching.

"Doctor Mallard?"

"Ah, yes," Ducky stood to greet her, "Doctor Frances?"

"Yes. I'm sorry that our receptionist didn't let you through but she's been rather inundated by enquiries about Mr Gemcity's condition and reporters trying to sneak by her. Now Director Vance said you had some files…"

"Of course, here," he handed her both files that he'd brought with him, which included details of his medical proxy, she quickly perused them.

"Everything seems to be in order," she smiled at the group and Ducky quickly introduced them, "Well Doctor Mallard since you're one of Agent McGee's medical proxies I would be happy to talk to you about his condition, as well as his sister of course."

"Anything you have to say to us can be said in front of Ziva and Tony," Sarah informed the doctor.

"Indeed, Sarah is correct, Timothy wouldn't object."

"Very well, let's take this somewhere more private," she led them out of the atrium and through the hospital to her office.

"How is Timothy?"

"Well Doctor Mallard…"

"Please, call me Ducky," the ME smiled.

"Ducky… Agent McGee is currently in ICU. He has some superficial, partial thickness second degree burns on his back and arms but our main concern right now is the smoke inhalation. His airways are congested with soot and his pulmonary system is struggling with the excess carbon monoxide."

Sarah put a hand over her mouth and tried to hold back the tears. Ducky reached over and took her other hand in his and squeezed it, indicating to Doctor Frances that she should go on.

"We currently have Agent McGee…"

"Tim, he likes to be called Tim," Sarah told the doctor through her tears.

Doctor Frances smiled at the younger woman and nodded, "Tim, is currently on a ventilator to help him breathe and we're using bronchodilators to help open up his airway as well as suctioning out the sooty mucus. I know it sounds unpleasant, and it is but it will help with Tim's breathing."

"Can we see him?" asked Tony, his brow furrowed with concern.

"Of course however, only two visitors are allowed at a time."

"We understand," Ducky responded as they all stood up and Doctor Frances led the group out of the room and to the ICU.

-NCIS-

On reaching the ICU, Tony and Ziva stopped at the waiting room while Ducky and Sarah followed Doctor Frances to Tim's room.

The Chief of Staff paused briefly at the nurses' station to explain the situation with their patient having two names and arranged for his chart to be changed to reflect his birth name, she then showed the pair to Tim.

"Remember, he's in stable condition," she reminded them, looking at Sarah, "He's attached to a heart monitor, as well as the ventilator. Tim is young and from what I can tell, healthy prior to this incident, the odds are in his favour."

"Thank you Doctor Frances," Sarah gave her a watery smile, understanding that the doctor was just trying to prepare her for what she was about to see.

The door to one of the cubicles slid open and a nurse stepped out, "Nurse Gemma Alvarez, this is Doctor Mallard and Sarah McGee," she introduced the pair before ushering them into the room and turning to explain to the nurse what had transpired.

Sarah gasped at the sight of her brother. Yes, the doctor had tried to prepare her but she didn't think anything could have prepared her to see Tim like this. There were a couple of bags hanging on a pole, both connected to a needle going into the crook of his right arm. A tube came from his mouth, taped to his skin to hold it in place, to the machine that helped him breathe. The sheet was folded down to his waist, revealing the pads for the heart monitor, which was beeping away quietly in the background, drowned out slightly by the noise of the ventilator. That wasn't what shocked her though, it was how pale Tim was, even in contrast to the white bandages that adorned both his arms and his back in places and the white sheets of his bed. Her brother could almost blend in with his environment, he was so pale.

"Come my dear, take a seat," Ducky gently encouraged the young woman to sit in the chair next to the bed.

"He looks so small," she whispered.

"People often say that when they see a loved one lying in a hospital bed," agreed Ducky, "I believe that it's because we are not used to seeing them in this kind of situation." He picked up the chart and perused the vitals detailed, "He has certainly improved in the last couple of hours, according to this."

"That's good," Sarah carefully took Tim's hand in hers, "You hear that Tim, you're doing well, just keep it up," she used her other hand to smooth his hair from his forehead, grimacing when she felt the soot caught in it, wiping her hand on her jeans.

"Ah yes, they will have cleaned him up as best as they can," informed Ducky, "But given they could not have given him a shower or bath, he's bound to still have the soot and dirt from the fire on his skin."

"He won't like that when he wakes up and you will, won't you Tim? You will wake up." Sarah's eyes filled with tears again.

"Oh, now come on, none of that. I'm sure Timothy wouldn't want you to upset yourself on his account. Why don't we let Tony and Ziva in for a visit and we can go and get something to eat and drink." Ducky could see Sarah was about to protest, "Your brother would want you to take care of yourself Sarah and that means making sure you eat."

"Yeah, OK," she stood up, leaning over Tim's still form, "I'll be back soon," she placed a kiss on his cheek and followed Ducky out.

-NCIS-

"Ducky, I haven't asked before because I just wanted to see my brother but where is Agent Gibbs?"

The ME shifted in his seat, taking a sip of his tea, he knew this question had been coming and had already decided that all he could do is be honest, "Abigail was unable to come, she is working on a case with time sensitive evidence…"

"Gibbs stayed with her," guessed Sarah, a note of anger in her tone.

"She would have been unable to drive herself, she was in quite the state before we left."

"But did it need to be Gibbs who stayed behind? Couldn't Tony or Ziva have driven her?"

"No, it didn't and yes, they could have. Gibbs felt that Timothy would have all the support he needed."

"Tim always tells me how much he respects Agent Gibbs but I don't think that feeling is mutual," huffed Sarah.

"That's not true, Jethro thinks a lot of Timothy…"

"Not enough to be here when my brother needs him though. Abby always comes first, hell, everyone else comes before Tim."

"Sarah, I know Jethro is not good at showing that he cares but he does."

"Abby, Ziva and Tony are treated like his kids, he's always there for them, why is he never there when Tim needs him?! I've lost count of the number of times when he could have used some support or even just a kind word…"

"Timothy has a father and mother that he can turn to. Tony and Ziva do not have mothers and their fathers leave a lot to be desired."

Sarah huffed out a bitter laugh, "No, Tim has parents, doesn't mean he can turn to them."

"What do you mean?"

"Has anyone ever asked Tim about our parents?"

"Well, no, I don't think so. I mean, we didn't know you even existed until that unfortunate incident where you became a suspect in one of the MCRT's cases."

"Tim is a very private person, he likes to think he can protect me from his world by not having me be a part of it," Sarah shook her head in disgust, "I think he thought, if he could just keep me separate from his work…"

"That you would not have to see the darker side of this world?"

"Yeah. He seems to forget we grew up in the same house."

"Sarah, from what you are saying, can I take it that Timothy's upbringing was not as happy as he would have us believe?"

"Look, it's not my place to say but I would suggest not taking everything at face value where Tim's concerned. I know everyone thinks he's a terrible liar but there are certain aspects of his life that he's used to being less than honest about. Now, can we go back upstairs?"

"I'll bear that in mind, my dear. Yes, I'm sure Tony and Ziva could use something to eat as well."

-NCIS-

Tony and Ziva were standing outside Tim's room when Ducky and Sarah returned, "What's wrong?" demanded the younger woman.

"I don't know," Tony sighed and ran his hand through his hair in frustration.

"We were talking quietly and suddenly one of the machines alarmed," replied Ziva.

"Oh my God!"

"Now, Sarah, let us not panic quite yet," Ducky placed an arm over her shoulders and the four stood waiting anxiously for someone to exit the room.

It seemed like hours but it was probably only a few minutes before the door slid open again and a man wearing the standard doctor garb stepped out. He spotted the four people hovering nearby and approached.

"Are you Agent McGee's family?"

"I am Doctor Mallard, his medical proxy, this is his sister Sarah and friends Agent Tony DiNozzo and Agent Ziva David."

"I'm Doctor Banner," the young man saw Tony open his mouth to comment, "Yes, that is really my name, no my first name is not Bruce and I don't turn green when I lose my temper."

"I wasn't going to say a word, I just want to know how Probie… er Agent McGee is."

Ziva looked confused, Sarah rolled her eyes and Ducky gave Tony a knowing look before turning his attention back to the doctor, "Is Timothy alright?"

"He was starting to fight the ventilator, which in turn set off the alarms. I'm sorry, I know that it's frightening when an alarm sounds but I can assure you it's not always a negative thing. We have modified the settings on the ventilator, so that it only activates if Tim fails to take a breath at an expected interval. We're monitoring this closely and if he continues to improve at the current rate, we should be able to take him off the ventilator by morning."

"Really?" Sarah's shoulders sagged with relief.

"Look," Doctor Banner placed a hand on her arm, "Don't get me wrong, this is excellent news and is a good indication of his body starting to recover but I do have to caution you that he is not out of the woods at this stage. This sort of trauma can lead to pneumonia and in his current weakened state it would be difficult for him to fight off the effects. Having said that, the sooner we can get him off the ventilator, the lower the risk of him developing breathing problems. It really is a balancing act but I promise we are watching closely."

"Can we go back in and sit with him?" Sarah asked.

"Absolutely but only two at a time please and if you're asked to leave the room, please do so. It doesn't mean that there is necessarily anything wrong but that the nurses have a job to do and need the space to work," replied Doctor Banner. "If you have any questions, then please have one of the nurses page me."

"Thank you Doctor Banner," Ducky shook the man's hand and turned back to the three young people, "Tony, Ziva, I think you should go to the cafeteria and avail yourselves of their food."

"You mean what passes for food," grumbled Tony, albeit half-heartedly.

"There's a diner across the road, about a block down, that does decent meals at a reasonable price," Nurse Alvarez advised them as she was exiting Tim's room, as she was due her break.

"Thank you, that may be preferable," Ziva glanced at her watch, "Gibbs and Abby should be arriving shortly, perhaps we should suggest they meet us there."

Tony was about to protest but noticed a subtle nod towards Sarah, who had tensed at the mention of the Boss and the Goth, "Great idea my little ninja, we'll see you shortly Ducky, Sarah, we have our cells if anything changes."

"They're not as subtle as they think they are," Sarah rolled her eyes as Tony ushered Ziva quickly away, "They realise I'm not happy with Agent Gibbs and Abby…"

"Yes, my dear, they do and I think it best if they meet them at the diner and allow you time with your brother and maybe allow Abigail to rein in her," he cleared his throat, "Over enthusiasm."

-NCIS-

"But why do we have to meet them at the diner Gibbs, I want to see Timmy!" whined Abby for probably the tenth time in as many minutes.

If it had been anyone else Gibbs would have, at the very least, threatened to eject them from the car but this was Abby, "I've already told you. Sarah and Ducky are with McGee and the doctor is only allowing two people into the room at a time."

"Sarah has had all afternoon with Timmy, it's my turn, I care about him too!"

"Abby!" Gibbs used a stern tone and hoped that somehow he got through to her, "We all care about him but she is his sister and if she wants to be with him right now, then nobody has the right to take that away from her, do you hear me?!"

"Tony and Ziva have seen him too," Abby crossed her arms and pouted as she slid down in her seat.

"You'll get to see him soon but it's been a long drive, I'm in need of a good cup of coffee and we both need to eat. Then and only then, we'll go to the hospital. Do I make myself clear?" Even Gibbs' patience could wear thin with Abby, eventually. "Abs?" he shot her a look before returning his attention to the road, looking for the turning for the hospital parking lot. He would find a space to park and then take Abby to meet Ziva and Tony at the diner, as his SFA's earlier call suggested.

"Fine!" she huffed.

Gibbs was really not looking forward to getting caught between Sarah McGee and a determined Abby Scuito.

-NCIS-

Sarah sat quietly, holding her brother's hand gently in her right, making sure that she was out of the way of the nurses coming and going, as well as not touching any part of Tim where he may have been burned. Ducky was a silent beacon of strength sitting next to her and watching the numbers on the monitors, noticing the tiny improvement and giving an internal sigh of relief that the young man he thought so highly of, was heading in the right direction for recovery.

The relative, respectful silence was shattered by the sound of clomping shoes and a series of other footsteps, sounding like they were hurrying to keep up. Then Ziva's voice drifted through the partially opened sliding door, "Abby! Will you slow down! Sarah and Ducky are with McGee and only two people are allowed in the room."

Honestly, Abby didn't mean to make so much noise, the platform soles of her boots were only loud because she was in a hurry to get to her destination but she was not to be thwarted in her goal to see her Timmy. She called over her shoulder, "You've already seen him, Sarah and Ducky have been with him for hours, now it's my turn!"

The sliding door to Tim's room slid open further and Sarah McGee determinedly closed it behind her, standing in front with her arms crossed.

"Ah crap!" grumbled Tony, placing a hand on Ziva's arm, getting her to halt alongside him, "Better stay back, I think baby McGee is about to go postal!"

Gibbs glared at Tony, as he hurried to keep pace with Abby and hopefully intervene before things could get out of hand. He was just a few short steps behind but it was enough for Abby to reach Sarah and try to go around her.

"What do you think you're doing?" demanded Sarah.

"Going to visit Timmy of course," Abby looked at the younger woman as if she had lost her mind.

"Like Hell you are! Firstly, his name is Tim, T. I. M or Timothy," Sarah spelled out for the Goth, "He is a thirty year old Federal Agent, not a three year old!"

Gibbs stepped up next to Sarah, "Abby didn't mean anything by it," he ignored the Goth and kept his attention on the spitfire that was Tim McGee's little sister in protective mode, "We weren't able to come sooner and Abs would just really like a chance to sit with McGee."

"Oh, now you have time for my brother Agent Gibbs?"

Tony and Ziva both winced at the tone being used to address their Boss and the smug smile on Abby's face as her Silver haired fox stood up for her, as usual.

A throat cleared from behind them as Ducky had left the ICU room as the volume of conversation increased, everyone had been so involved in the train wreck in progress in front of them that they'd not heard the sliding door of Tim's room reopen.

"Sarah, here is not the time or the place for this conversation, my dear."

Taking a deep breath the young woman nodded her agreement with the ME, which Abby mistakenly took as her acquiescence to allow her entrance and started to step around her, she didn't get far because Sarah grabbed her elbow, spun her around and started to march out of the ICU. The diminutive younger woman refusing to let go, no matter how much Abby fought against her.

Ducky simply closed his eyes, taking a deep breath, "Tony, Ziva, why don't you sit with Timothy for a while, Jethro, I think you and I may be needed to prevent World War three from breaking out!"

Gibbs pinched the bridge of his nose before turning to follow the two women with Ducky by his side. Tony and Ziva exchanged glances, torn, just for a moment, between witnessing what was sure to be a potentially explosive standoff between Sarah, Abby and Gibbs or sitting with their injured friend. Common sense won in the end, neither wanting to get caught in the potential cross fire and they slid quietly into Tim's room.

-NCIS-

Once Sarah exited the ICU, she kept going until she reached the waiting area nearby, which was thankfully empty and finally allowed Abby to pull her arm free.

"Just who do you think you are?" spluttered the angry Goth.

"Tim's sister and the one who is going to protect him from the likes of you!" spat back Sarah.

"He doesn't need protecting from me, I love Timmy!"

"TIM! Oh yeah, you love him like puppies!"

"But puppies are cute!"

Sarah clenched her fists at her side, struggling to keep her fiery temper under control, especially in the face of such naiveté coming from someone older than her.

"Sarah," Gibbs took a step forward, entering the fray with some reluctance, "We just want to see for ourselves that Mc… Tim, is alright."

"And you!" Sarah whipped around to face the older man, "You should be ashamed of yourself, always putting somebody else's needs ahead of my brother's!"

"I would never put your brother at risk," protested Gibbs defensively but was cut off by the fuming young woman before he could continue.

"Oh no? How about asking him to wade into a red tagged hot tub without the correct protective equipment? Or having him transport a dog that mauled him just a short time before, by himself! Then allowing her," she shoved her finger in Abby's direction, "To ruin a perfectly good jacket to wrap around the dog Tim had shot in self-defence. She was more worried about the dog than Tim, you were more worried about the case than my brother and making sure your precious Abby got her way, again. I was the one he called after that case to take him to the ER because the bite wounds started bleeding again, I was the one that stayed at his apartment every night helping him through his nightmares, after Abby yet again got her own way and foisted the dog that bit him on Tim." Sarah took a deep breath, "The only reason I didn't take that blasted dog to the pound or to be destroyed myself, was because Tim begged me not to, despite all he was going through. Tony and Ziva aren't perfect, you let Tony get away with far too much immature hazing but Tim takes it all and fights back when he steps over the mark but he shouldn't have to, because you," she placed her finger in Gibbs' chest, "Should be in better control of your people and stop allowing those you consider 'your kids', to walk all over the one you don't. I'm done here, you're not welcome right now. If you want to see Tim, the closest I'll allow is for you to look through the glass door."

Abby stamped her foot, "You can't stop me!"

"Abigail!" admonished Ducky, "That's enough. She's Tim's next of kin and she can."

"Maybe when my brother starts to come at the top of your list of priorities, I'll change my mind, don't hold your breath!" Sarah flicked her long hair over her shoulder and stormed out, away from the ICU, in desperate need of some air as she fought back tears.

Tim had been undervalued by people, including her, all his life. After Tim put the career he loved on the line for her, she swore that she would never again allow anyone, family or friend, to walk all over her brother and would be there whenever he needed her. She knew that he would be unhappy with what she had just done but it was about time that someone dished out some home truths. If there was a chance that Abby and Gibbs would change, even a little, then it would be worth the wrath of her big brother.

-NCIS-

Abby, Gibbs and Ducky watched the young woman practically run away from the ICU, there was a moment of complete and utter silence, until Abby gathered herself.

"She's not going back to the ICU, I'm going to visit Timmy!"

Before she could even take a step, Gibbs grabbed hold of her, "No, you're not…"

"But Gibbs, she's not here to stop us!"

"You will respect her wishes Abby, until Tim can speak for himself, she is entitled to make decisions on his behalf as his next of kin. She's angry enough at us now, if we ignore what she says and she finds out, then seeing Tim at all will be completely off the cards."

"Quite right Jethro."

"Ducky, as his medical proxy, you can overrule her decision, right?"

"Abigail unless there is a medical reason to do so, I will not go against Sarah's wishes. She obviously feels strongly that it is not in Timothy's best interests for either of you to see him at this time. I will escort you to the ICU and pull back the curtains to allow you to see into the room but I will do no more. Perhaps the two of you should think about your actions, both in the past and today." He looked pointedly at Gibbs.

"Duck's right, Abs. Let's go and see Tim, then we can find somewhere for you and I to talk. I want to hear more about what happened with that dog."

Abby opened her mouth to protest but one look at Gibbs' stern countenance ensured that she shut it again quickly and meekly followed the two older men back to the ICU.

They stopped outside of Tim's room, the curtains had been pulled back, so they had a clear view of him through the sliding glass doors. Abby gasped as she saw how pale he was and turned to Gibbs for comfort. It was an automatic response to put his arm around her and provide what she needed at that moment. Gibbs was also shocked by his Agent's appearance, even though Ducky had warned them that he was on a ventilator for the time being and he had suffered burns to both his back and his arms. The Team Leader thought it was just as well that Tim remained unconscious and hopefully blissfully unaware, as he was lying on his back. He hoped that once the younger man woke up they would change his position, second degree burns hurt enough on their own.

They were so absorbed in the sight before them that neither Abby nor Gibbs saw Tony move and approach them, sliding the glass door quietly open before stepping out, Ziva following in his wake.

"Hey Boss, we'll go sit in the waiting room while you visit." Tony told the older man.

"That won't be necessary Anthony," Ducky jumped in to fill the momentarily tense silence, "Sarah has asked…" Abby snorted at the words, receiving a glare from the M.E. "As I was saying, Sarah has asked that both Abby and Gibbs do not visit until Timothy is aware enough to make his own decisions."
"What? Why?" demanded Tony.

"Because I screwed up," Gibbs responded, solemn in both demeanour and words.

Tony and Ziva exchanged glances, Sarah had obviously said something to the man to get him to behave in such a manner, so out of character.

"Gibbs?" Ziva prompted, looking for a more complete answer.

"I let Tim down. It took an ass chewing from a twenty something year old to make me see just how badly." He confessed. "Come on Abs, we've got some talking to do." He steered the Goth away from the ICU room.

"But Gibbs, I want to…"

"Right now it's not about you Abby, it's about Tim. We're going to talk and you are going to give me some honest answers, let's go!" Ordered Gibbs, firmly guiding her out, away from the last place that he wanted to leave but knew he had to get to the bottom of what had been going on, practically right under his nose without him really seeing it.

Tony, Ziva and Ducky watched them walk away, Abby looking back over her shoulder several times before they were out of sight. "Ducky?"

"Anthony, I believe Jethro has finally seen the error of his ways in his treatment of Timothy. I am ashamed that it wasn't me that made him see it but I do believe this is a good thing."

"Sarah really said they could not see Tim?" asked Ziva.

"She did and told him some harsh truths about past treatment of her brother. We all know that Timothy is not perfect, he has made some rash decisions and been arrogant at times but he has always been there if anyone needed him, it is our time to return that care. Perhaps one of you would be so kind as to track down Sarah, she was most upset."

"I'll go," Tony replied.

"I will go," Ziva stated at the same time.

Ducky smiled at their eagerness to be doing something to help, "Why don't you both go. I believe she will be in need of some reassurance."

Tony and Ziva nodded and left the M.E. to go in search of the younger McGee, the least they could do was ensure that she had some support while her brother was healing.

The Scotsman stood and watched them go with a smile before entering Tim's room once more, "Ah Timothy, your sister is a spitfire young man! I wouldn't wish any harm on you but this situation may finally bring the team closer than ever. I for one would be very happy to see you given the same consideration as your team mates. I do wonder what you will make of all the fuss once you wake up, I am sure that you will be most uncomfortable," Ducky chuckled to himself at the thought, "Still it's no more than you deserve and Sarah will certainly calm down once she can speak with you, I am sure. I hope so for Gibbs' and Abigail's sake at least!" The M.E. lowered himself into a chair to watch over Tim as he slumbered on, seemingly blissfully ignorant of the goings on around him.

-NCIS-

Sarah had found a convenient bench sitting just outside the front of the hospital on a patch of lawn. She threw herself down in it and huffed angrily. No, she wasn't perfect but she felt that Gibbs had just dismissed Tim's needs once again, so he could pander to Abby. She didn't necessarily dislike the Goth but she did feel Tim had been letting her get away with too much for far too long. The fact she had to throw a tantrum in order to get Gibbs to even consider taking Abby to task, just made her angry again.

She knew that when she was being investigated for murder that Gibbs had understood Tim's desire to hand in his badge to protect her, rather than protect the agency. He had also made it clear to Sarah that she undervalued her brother greatly. If he could see her doing that, why could he not see that Abby did it too?

"Hello Sarah," Ziva spoke softly, so as not to startle the younger woman.

She wiped her eyes and turned to look at Ziva and Tony, who took a seat either side of her on the bench.

"Hi, I really hope you're not here to try to convince me to let Gibbs and Abby see Tim, because I'm not sorry for what I said."

"No Sarah, we're just here to make sure you're OK," Tony assured her.

"Did Abby take the opportunity of me leaving the ICU to go into see Tim?"

Ziva and Tony shared a look before Tony replied, "Actually, she did try to but Gibbs stopped her and insisted they respect your wishes."

"Really?" Sarah's eyebrows climbed up towards her hairline in surprise.

"Yup, he's taken her somewhere to have a chat with her about things."

"Wow," Sarah was pleasantly surprised, though not enough to change her mind.

"I think you have given Gibbs something to think about, no?"

"I hope so, because I don't think Tim is being treated fairly." Sarah glanced at the pair, "I know you, Tony can go too far with the teasing and the jokes sometimes but I also know you have tried to support Tim in your own unique way. I realise, Ziva, it's easy to get caught up in the joke but maybe just take a minute to think about whether it's really funny or not."

"So you're not going to ban us from seeing Probie?"

Sarah gave Tony a watery smile, knowing Tim had come to accept the nickname, "No, Tony I'm not."

There was a very small sigh of relief from the SFA at the pronouncement and his shoulders relaxed a little.

-NCIS-

Gibbs took Abby to a nearby park he had noticed and pointed at a bench under the shade of a tree, "Sit."

"I'm not a dog Gibbs," huffed Abby.

He simply raised an eyebrow in her direction and she plonked herself down, clearly unhappy with the order.

"Talking of dogs, what went on with Butch?"

"Jethro, I called him Jethro!"

"Yes, you did and I arranged it so you could keep him but you didn't, did you? I knew Tim had the dog but I thought it was an agreement, since he had been looking for one. Did you browbeat him into taking the dog?"

"No." Abby replied without looking Gibbs in the eye.

"Uh huh. Abigail Scuito, I suggest you look at me right now and tell me the truth!" demanded Gibbs.

"My apartment complex wouldn't allow dogs and I knew Tim's would. I took Jethro over and asked Tim to take him, he never said no."

"Not saying no and saying yes are two very different things Abby!"

"He could have said no!"

"Could he? Has he ever said no to you Abby?"

She looked like she was really thinking but Gibbs knew Tim had never and probably would never, say no to Abby.

"No," she replied quietly.

"You knew that going over to his apartment, didn't you? You figured, it's OK, Tim never says no to me and I'll just get him to take the dog in. When he feels better you are going to talk to him about the dog and make sure he is happy to keep him, if he's not, you will help him rehome him. Do I make myself clear?"

"But Gibbs…"

"I said… Do I make myself clear?"

"Yes Gibbs."

"Abby, Tim loves you and you take advantage of that, it's got to stop." Gibbs sighed as he pulled her into him, "You need to stop to consider what might be best for him and not just you."

"I'll try." Abby sniffs and takes a tissue out of her small black bag to wipe her eyes.

"I'm sure there are other incidents where something has happened between you and Tim, why don't you fill me in on the rest…"

Abby nodded and started talking, she told Gibbs about the time she made Tim get her toothbrush from the car, when he was supposed to be guarding her. She admitted that the incident in Mexico was her fault and so on it went, until she was sure she had confessed to even the smallest transgression against Tim.

Gibbs just shook his head, as much at himself as at Abby, how could he have been so blind?

-NCIS-

Tim's return to consciousness is somewhat anticlimactic initially, until he realises he has something stuck in his throat and then an alarm goes off, as his heart monitor picks up the increased heart rate.

Dr Banner was due to remove the ventilator shortly and was not expecting the effects of the sedative to wear off so quickly. His patient obviously did things in his own time, so he was quick to explain about removing the tube and then suit actions to words.

The memory of how he came to be in a hospital bed, hooked up to all sorts of machines was escaping Tim at that moment but Dr Banner drew his attention.

"Hello Tim, I'm Dr Banner, how are you feeling?"

Tim tried to speak but his mouth tasted foul and his throat was scratchy, dry and more than a little sore.

"Here Tim, I'm Gemma, have some water," the nurse held a glass of water up, with a straw and he gratefully took several sips, allowing the cool liquid to soothe his throat, "is that better?" she asked.

"Yeah," he croaked out.

"So, how are you feeling?" repeated Dr Banner.

Tim takes a moment to take stock of all his limbs and realises that his back is starting to hurt and so are his arms. Looking around at the machines he recognises the heart monitor, of course with it's annoying beeping it would be hard not to recognise that, a pulse oximeter on his finger, a nasal cannula for oxygen and of course an IV. Closing his eyes he thinks he'll just allow himself to drift back off to sleep.

"Come on Tim, I need you to stay awake a little bit longer," Dr Banner gently shook his patient.

"Huh?" Tim's eyes blinked open wearily.

"How are you feeling?" Dr Banner asked for the third time, not unused to the disorientation of a patient who has just come to.

After thinking for a moment, Tim replies, "Tired, sore throat, my back and arms hurt." He pauses for breath, "What happened?"

"What do you remember?"

"Mmm, hotel," another pause as he gathers the cobwebs of his thoughts and memories, "Fire?" he asks.

"Yes, there was a fire at the hotel. You suffered from smoke inhalation and second degree burns on your back and arms. If you'll let me give you a thorough check over, we'll see if we can make you more comfortable."

"Mmm 'k." he replies tiredly and just lets them move him where they want for the examination.

When he's finished Dr Banner nods, "You're recovering nicely…"

Tim interrupts him when his throat starts to get a tickly feeling, he tries to clear his throat, hoping that will get rid of it but it doesn't. He starts to cough which triggers an instant reaction of both wanting to throw up and the feeling of not being able to catch his breath.

"You're alright Tim, just try to relax," the doctor earns the best glare that Tim can manage given the circumstances.

Gemma had left the room and reappears again not long after and in her hand is a syringe which she deftly slips into Tim's IV port.

"That will help you get this cough under control," she also disconnects the nasal cannula and places an oxygen mask over Tim's face, much to the patient's disgust but also relief. The cool fresh air starts to ease the tightness in his chest, "Tim, I want you to concentrate on me. Breathe in, breathe out, breathe in, breathe out," Gemma calmly coaches.

As his breathing eases Tim becomes aware of an unpleasant feeling and the look that crosses his face is easily read by the nurse. An emesis bowl appears in no time and the oxygen mask is removed. Tim proceeds to throw up and much to his disgust it's not normal up chuck either, it's black and tarry looking. A few minutes later when the vomiting has passed and the emesis bowl is removed, a sip of water is offered and taken. Tim is shaking with the strain of what he's just been through and at that moment the door to his room slides open and Tony appears. He takes one look at the scene in front of him and goes to his friend's side.

"Hey Probie," Tony offers a faint smile, "Good to see you with the ventilator out but if you don't mind me saying, you don't look so good!"

Gemma replaces the oxygen mask and helps the doctor ease Tim back down, though she raises the head of the bed slightly to make breathing a little easier.

"We're going to need to use suction to help remove some of that mucus Tim," Dr Banner informs him.

Still unable to talk Tim just flaps a hand at him, too tired to argue. Taking that as consent the nurse disappears only to come back a short time later with another syringe, "This is to help you relax while we do the suctioning, it's not particularly pleasant but it will help and hopefully you'll be able to avoid vomiting again." Tim's all for no more vomiting.

"Erm…" Tony hesitates, not sure whether he should be here for this or not.

"You don't have to stay," croaks Tim.

"No, it's fine, better me than Sarah, though really, you could have waited for Ducky to visit!"

"Sarah? Ducky?"

"Yes Probie, everyone is here. Do you want me to stay?"

Tim felt like he may be considered weak if he said yes but he really did just want a familiar face, as he still felt disorientated and unnerved, so he nodded.

"No problemo," replied Tony, hoping that it really wouldn't be.

"Tony," Dr Banner addressed the SFA, "why don't you stand over by the head of the bed on the other side and just talk to Tim," he suggests.

Tony follows his instructions and then starts to talk about movies involving fires, "So, have you ever seen Backdraft…"

To Tim it becomes a familiar cadence and voice in the room, which he finds reassuring as Gemma removes the oxygen mask again and angles Tim's head back slightly.

Dr Banner takes a small plastic tube and he explains to Tim that he is going to insert it through his nose and into his windpipe then he'll use a gentle vacuum to suck out the secretions that are causing him problems. Tim's eyes widen but given his options he figures he's got nothing left to lose. Tony takes his hand and squeezes to let him know he's still there and keeps on talking about the cast of Backdraft, Dr Banner begins.

It's clear neither Tim nor Dr Banner or Gemma take any pleasure from the procedure but Tim is certainly more comfortable afterwards.

"Tomorrow we'll change to postural drainage. Basically you'll be positioned so that the secretions can drain easier, someone then claps you on the back with a cupped hand, obviously avoiding any burned areas," Dr Banner cups his hand to demonstrate, "That will loosen the mucus and you'll be able to cough it up easier and avoid being sick. Still not pleasant but it will likely need to be done for a while."

"Thanks," Tim whispers tiredly.

"Alright let's get you into a better position," with the nurse and Tony's help, they managed to get him so he was lying on his side, with no weight being distributed over his burns. Pillows were used to bolster him where necessary, to stop him from rolling onto the burns inadvertently.

"Get some rest Tim," Dr Banner replaces the nasal cannula this time and Gemma straightens the covers before leaving.

"Sleep, someone will be here when you wake up," instructs Tony, receiving a grateful smile in return.

-NCIS-

The next time Tim woke up, Sarah and Ducky were sitting by him, he licked his dry lips and Sarah quickly bounced up to grab the ever present glass of water and helped him take a drink.

"Thanks," Tim's voice still sounded rough but his throat was beginning to feel better.

"Oh Tim, you had me so worried, when Director Vance called…"

"You didn't drive here on your own," Tim cleared his throat before continuing, "Did you?"

Sarah rolled her eyes, even in a hospital bed, her brother was still trying to protect her, "No," she replied, "I came with Ziva, Tony and Ducky."

Tim's eyes widened, "Did Ziva drive?"

Ducky chuckled, "No lad, Tony drove. How are you feeling?"

"Tired and sore," he replied.

"I'm sure."

"Where are the others?"

"Tony, Ziva, Gibbs and Abby are having lunch," Sarah stated quickly, glancing away, a guilty look on her face.

"Sarah? What did you do?"

"Erm, I might have banned Abby and Gibbs from seeing you," she hesitated before spilling the rest, "I also told them a few home truths about how they treat you."

"Of course you did," sighed Tim.

"Now Timothy, it really wasn't that bad," Ducky quickly jumped in, "Honestly, I think it was something we all needed to hear."

"Ducky…"

"Now then, what has been said cannot be unsaid and I for one am pleased that someone finally opened Jethro's eyes, I'm just sorry it was not me!"

"It's fine Ducky."

"It most certainly is not!" insisted the M.E.

"Can I at least see them now?" Tim glanced at his pair of visitors, "But maybe limit Abby's visit to 10 minutes and no hugs for now."

"I can do that Timothy, let me just step out to call Jethro." Ducky smiled at the siblings as he left.

Sarah sat in her chair, twirling her hair like she had as a child and she was nervous, glancing at Tim through her eyelashes.

"It's OK Sarah, I'm not mad."

"Really?"

"I'm too tired to be mad right now but I reserve the right to bring this subject up again when I feel better."

"OK," Sarah capitulated.

Tim squinted at her, "You gave in far too easily."

"You scared me," she whispered.

"Oh Sarah, come here," he motioned to the bed, aware of his burns and not causing himself any further pain but also that his sister needed comforting.

She lowered the railing on the side of the bed and sat very carefully by her brother's hip, she leaned forward to rest her forehead on his and closed her eyes, trying not to cry.

"Shhh, I'm fine or at least I will be."

"They couldn't get hold of Mom, Dad or Penny and I was so scared…"

"Well we both know Mom and Dad wouldn't have come anyway, Penny will be upset she was unreachable when we needed her though."

"I should try her again," Sarah sighed, pushing herself to sit upright but not before pressing a soft kiss to her brother's forehead.

"Sounds like perfect timing," Tim replied, as they heard the clomp of Abby's platforms.

The door slid open and Abby stepped through, closely followed by Gibbs. The haughty and rather smug look on Abby's face made Tim cringe, as he knew it would not go down well with his little sister.

"Timmy, I knew you'd want to see us once you woke up," she shot Sarah a glare.

"Abby," Gibbs growled a warning, "You know his name is Tim, start using it!"

Sarah's lips twitched in a smile but she said nothing and let Gibbs try to reel the Goth in.

Abby rolled her eyes, "Fine! I knew Tim would want to see me, once he woke up," not including Gibbs this time.

"Abby," Tim gave his own warning, Sarah had been through a lot and Abby did need to accept responsibility for her own actions, even if it made Gibbs mad at him. Sarah was his sister and would always come at the top of his priority list.

"What, it's only natural you would want to see your best friend," she quickly pushed past Sarah to get to the bed.

It was only by sheer willpower and knowing that it would make Tim cross, that Sarah did not grab Abby by her pigtails and drag her back out of the room.

Gibbs could see things were about to get very awkward and Abby was striking her hug pose, despite being told Tim would not be up to that yet. He knew this was his chance to at least start to show Tim he mattered, "Abby, stop!" The Goth carried on toward the bed but Gibbs was quicker and grabbed her before she could pull Tim into a hug, "I said stop! You were explicitly told no hugs and you needed to remain calm, you are not doing either. You're trying to bait Sarah and it's not going to work, so either you approach Tim with the care and respect he deserves, or I march you out of this room myself! What's it going to be?!"

Abby looked over her shoulder at Gibbs, her mouth hanging open a bit in surprise, whilst Sarah tried to hold back a little bit of a grin at seeing Gibbs finally put Tim first.

"Well?" demanded Gibbs.

Abby went almost limp against him and mumbled, "Fine."

"Good," he turned his attention to Tim, "I'm glad to see you doing alright, though Tony filled me in on the procedure you had," he winced in sympathy.

"I'm mainly just really tired, they've given me the good drugs, so not too much pain right now."

"Make sure it stays that way," ordered Gibbs, "Don't follow my example, or Tony's for that matter…"

"Hey!" came a voice from the area outside the room, Tony was obviously waiting to make sure he wasn't needed to help separate Sarah and Abby.

"You follow doctor's orders," Gibbs finished, completely ignoring Tony.

Tim smiled wearily, "I will, I don't think I have the energy to argue."

"Tim, I'm going to go and wait down the hall in the waiting room and try to call Penny again, will you be OK?"

"Yes, Sarah, I'll be fine."

"I won't let things get out of hand again," Gibbs assured her, looking her straight in the eye and Sarah knew that he meant more than just right now. She gave a nod to confirm she understood and then left Abby and Gibbs to their visit.

-NCIS-

Five days later Tim was leaving Thomas Jefferson University Hospital. He spent two days in the ICU thanks to the problems caused by the build-up of mucus, then a further three days to ensure that he could maintain his own oxygen levels. Everyone on the team had been shown how to assist him with the postural drainage so he was being allowed to go home.

Of course that didn't mean his apartment it meant Gibbs' house, much to Tim's surprise.

The team had returned to DC on Sunday night, taking Sarah with them at Tim's insistence, the only one to remain was Ducky and that was with Vance's permission, since Jimmy was more than capable of dealing with any work that came along and if he couldn't, they would call in a favour to cover it.

Ducky was quite pleased to be staying behind, he needed one of the two cars that had been driven to Philadelphia, which meant Gibbs, Ziva, Tony, Sarah and Abby travelling in the same vehicle. He was glad he was not the one who had to deal with that potentially combustible situation!

Tim was discharged with an inhaler to help widen his airway if he got breathless and various prescription drugs and dressings for his burns. All of which Ducky was aware of in case Tim decided not to do as he had been told, which he doubted, considering Tim was getting the whole papa bear routine from Gibbs.

Now he was leaving and Gibbs, with the backing of Ducky and the team, was determined that no foolishness would set back his recovery.

Tim was just grateful that when they arrived at Gibbs' home, it was still standing, since both Sarah and Abby were present. He was then more than a little unnerved by the fact they seemed to have come to some sort of mutual understanding and they were now united in their goal of hen pecking him!

A glance at Gibbs, Tony, Ziva, Ducky and Jimmy showed that he would get no help from them, as the two women set about making him comfortable on Gibbs' sofa. He'd always hoped Abby and Sarah would get along, now he was beginning to wish they wouldn't, as they would be likely to smother him with kindness. He just had to hope if it got too bad Gibbs would step in and chase them out of the house. In the meantime, he enjoyed having the team, his family, around him and knowing he had their full support.