Six Months Later

"Morning, Early Probie! Catch any worms this morning?"

Tim ignored the comment and headed for his desk, dropping his things beside it as he fell into his chair. It was a good day and not even Tony could dampen his mood. He had been officially cleared to return to field duty that day and he couldn't be happier. Sure, he probably could have returned earlier, but they had decided to wait it out another month, make sure there were no problems. They didn't want to give him a gun if his wrist was still out of whack.

"How's the hand?" Ziva asked.

"Itching for a gun."

Tony raised an eyebrow. "Coming from anyone else that would be disturbing."

"Well, I didn't mean it like that," Tim muttered as the implication of his words hit. "I just meant that if I had to spend one more day on desk duty I might just shoot myself."

"Wouldn't be covered by your health coverage," Gibbs said as he walked by. "McGee, I want you down to Ducky so he can sign off on your return."

"Yeah, boss, just as soon as I check my e-mail, I'll run down."

Tim clicked on his computer and quickly logged on. Aside from the general office memos, spam mail, and a reminder from Abby that they were all collecting money for Agent Yeats' retirement party, there was one from someone by the name of katdoc. Intrigued, Tim scanned it for viruses and, certain it was safe, clicked on it:

Tim,

Sorry it's been so long since we spoke. I guess we both got busy with real life. I'm back in Ethiopia and working hard. I still have nightmares about that night, but the kids help. They give me hope.

I hope you're healing well. Nick said you should be back to field duty any day now. I guess you wouldn't be interested in coming out here for a week or so. I only ask because we're trying to get better computers here and I know you're a whiz with those. Also, a television was donated and we promised the kids we'd get it up as soon as possible. But don't let that sway your decision ;)

Not sure if he mentioned it, but Nick is dating again. Her name is Faye Wagner and she's an image consultant he hired to promote him and the company. She seems nice, but maybe, if you have the chance, you could give her background a quick look, just to make sure. Nick doesn't need to know.

Anyway, I just wanted to get in touch with you and make sure things are okay with you. I really enjoyed seeing you at Nick's almost-wedding, even if we were almost killed. Thanks for being there for me.

Love,

Kat

Tim blinked a few times as he read the close of her letter. Love? Was that a hint? Or was it meant in a platonic sense? His eyes trailed down below that where he saw this:

PS: Maybe the next time we're in the same town, we could have a date that doesn't end in a car crash?

A small smile appeared on his face as he hit the "reply" button.

Kat,

I think I could spare a week to lend my help. I've never been to Ethiopia…

AN: Thanks to everyone who read! I hope you enjoyed it :)