Sins of the Father

An NCIS Fanfic.

Abby:

"Tony's lucky. I mean, he still has a father. I wish mine were alive. I'd forgive him for anything."

It was a simple matter of communication. Meaning they didn't have any. Abby had worked for years to perfect her ASL to its highest level. She wanted to clearly express every thought that passed through her head. And the words she picked up from her parents growing up were just not enough. It wasn't like living in a bilingual household. Abby wasn't deaf, so she had to learn English and ASL, neither of which were particularly easy since she couldn't properly practice with her parents.

But despite the difficulties, Abby loved her parents. She got on best with her mom. They could sign for hours. They loved to challenge each other; hold elaborate conversations whilst cooking or any other activity that required hands. To anyone who witnessed the scene, it would seemingly make no sense. Every time they signed flour and other kitchen items were flung into the air. And they would laugh because only they got it. With her mom, it didn't matter that they spoke differently. They understood each other perfectly.

But with her dad, it was different. He was stubborn and difficult. Like Abby herself to a degree. Abby knew he cared deeply for her, but it didn't come across in their interactions. They would converse, and they could understand each other. But he still didn't truly understand her. There were things Abby just couldn't express with her hands.

They fought like any father and daughter. Abby's Goth style and odd interest in death and gore perturbed her father. Then she went away to college, leaving a rift between them.

A rift she never got to heal.

A/N: Finally finished this story. I'm trying something new. I finish a story before I post it, and then I don't have to worry about sporadic updating! So I'll try to post one chapter per day. They are all about the length of the one above.

I'm taking a few privileges with Abby's backstory. I'm not sure what really happened with her and her dad, but the quote is from the show. Not sure of the exact episode.

So I hope you enjoy, and please review! I love to hear your thoughts!

Disclaimer: NCIS is the property of Donald P. Bellisario and Don McGill.