Gibbs found Tony sitting on the grass at the park, knees to his chest, arms crossed over them, with his head propped on them. He looked fairly peaceful considering the conversation that had just taken place. Maybe calling Jack had been a good idea after all. Then with Tony who knew. The kid was am master at hiding his true emotions when the need arose. He just hoped that Tony felt comfortable enough with himself and the feelings he was having to share them.

Tony sensed his dad even before the older man sat down beside him. The reassuring scent of wood and something that was uniquely Gibbs enveloped him, letting him know that his dad was not far away.

"Is Jack alright?"

"He's fine. Why wouldn't he be?"

"I kind of um…I said some things that should have been kept to myself. I really didn't mean to tell him so much, it just sort of happened."

Gibbs hid his smile. If his son knew just how small and childlike he sounded he might retreat into himself again. Besides he was well aware that Jackson Gibbs possessed special powers when it came to reading people. Especially Tony. Or himself.

"You didn't do anything wrong, son now or when Kate was killed. We all need someone in our corner, even me. I have you and Dad. And Ducky. You have me, Dad, Ducky, Abby, and heaven knows how many women lined up just waiting for a chance to see your vulnerable side. And no, I do not, nor will I ever blame you or anyone but Ari for Kate's death. Are we clear?"

"Yes."

Tony grinned and laid his head on his dad's shoulder. He thought about the only time he had ever attempted such with his father. He had been quickly and violently shoved away, as if he had the plague. (No pun intended. OK, maybe pun intended.) Gibbs had never shoved him away. He had been the first person to pull him close and offer the comfort he so desperately sought but never realized he needed. The gruff ex marine had given him so much more than a job. He had given him a home. And now a family that actually wanted him.

"I'm sorry. I never meant to be like this."

"Tony, grief is a natural process. It isn't a weakness. I don't care what that bastard told you when your mother died, he was wrong, bud."

With his dad's arms wrapped around him, Tony finally allowed himself to grieve for Kate, for the friendship he lost, and if he was truthful with himself, for his mother.

I know it's short but I wanted to get it finished. U guys deserve an ending. Thank u 4 waiting. Hope this makes up 4 it. My next fic is in the works. It is a Psych story. So look 4 me to post something from that in a few weeks.