A/N 1/9/13: This is an extended scene to Act 5. I've had to make a few adjustments to the story to try, as much as possible, to reflect the little things that have been written in by the "professional" writers., e.g. Tony never having company at his place, and that he owns a piano. (I have written it as a baby grand, considering that he lives in a small apartment, I don't know what kind of piano they actually showed on TV.)

After completing the number, the audience gave her a standing ovation. As she returned to her table, Tony gave her some positive feedback, "Have you ever considered singing professionally? Our boss has a saying: 'You don't waste good.'"

"I know I'm good," Tali answered, "but I'm also good at, and enjoy, my day job. Guess which one pays better."

"Touché," Tony stated.

"I also know you're pretty good on the ivories."

Tony nearly choked on his drink. "What makes you say that?"

"Come on, you have a baby grand. You don't invest in such a fine instrument without using it." It was true that DiNozzo still had his piano, and that he did play it at times to unwind, but he had never played for his friends, let alone the public. "It's time for you to break out."

"What do you mean?" Ziva asked.

"For starters, if Tony really wants to be there for the mother of his child, time to himself is going to be scarce."

"Are you suggesting that I move in with Ziva?" Tony replied. "What am I going to do with my baby grand?"

"It can stay right where it is," Tali teased. "I know someone who's looking for a place in the DC area, and she'd be more than happy to take over your lease and look after your prized possession."

Oh, boy, Tony thought, this girl has an answer for everything. "You would be willing to do that?"

"I've already taken a new job in DC to be closer to Ziva. This is just the next step."

"I think it's a wonderful idea," Ziva answered. Although she wasn't ready to get married, there was a need burning within her to be closer to her mate.

"Now, as for you, DiNozzo," Tali stated as she slapped the back of his head. "Get out there and show us what you can do."

"Geez, it's bad enough getting slapped by Gibbs," Tony commented. However, he did comply, lest he face the wrath of both David sisters.

Sam the piano player yielded his seat to Tony. "Tali thinks you could be a 'killer,'" he stated.

"Does she now?" Tony answered. "Well, then, I know exactly what to play." As the guest warmed up on the bar's piano, DiNozzo channeled the great Jerry Lee Lewis. He looked as his companion as he began to play Great Ballsof Fire. He kept his eyes locked on Ziva as he began the first verse.

"You shake my nerves and you rattle my brain
Too much love drives a man insane
You broke my will, oh what a thrill
Goodness gracious, great balls of fire"

As Tony completed the song, it was his turn to receive a standing 'O.' "Wow," Tali said. "You dove in head first, and you killed it, all right. You know, if Baby DiNozzo doesn't become a kick-ass NCIS agent, he or she might have a future as a musician."

As Tali and Tony continued to banter, Ziva noticed how Tali had managed to bring the best out of her partner. It was clear that she liked him, and they just 'clicked.' Ziva saw her co-workers at NCIS, especially Tony, as an extended family. Tali had accepted this new family, and they had accepted her.

Finally, when she looked at her partner, Ziva realized that Tony was truly her partner in everything. They were about to start a family of their own, whether they were ready or not. Their logical minds were still uncertain about it, but their hearts and their gut instincts were all in. It would still be a bumpy road, and Ziva planned to take it slow; however, this was a road she does not regret taking.

*foof* *end credits*

Right now, I'm somewhat gainfully employed, and am working on some other projects. However, I have gotten started on the next two stories: "The Art of War" and "The Lady in Red."

And, for those of you that have seen "Shabbat Shalom," I would love to hear feedback on how I can integrate the major events of that story into my own series (which, of course, is now totally A/U). Also, I'm thinking of other pairings besides Tiva.