Explanation

"So what do you need to tell me?" Gibbs prompted. He had been surprised when he got home from the agency a few hours ago and found Tony's car in the driveway. Tony usually told him when he was coming home, but he hadn't said anything about this visit. Once inside he found evidence that Tony was in house, but couldn't readily locate his son in the kitchen, or living room, or basement, much less outside playing ball. That meant he was in his bedroom, signalling that he was upset about something.

Tony turned his head so that he could look up at his father, then scooted and rearranged himself some more until he managed to rest his head against his dad's lap.

"I'm flying to Abuela Sunday. I want to spend a few days with her, and I certainly have plenty of vacation days to use."

Gibbs nodded but didn't speak. Tony loved his abuela, and he obviously needed her as much as he needed his father right now.

Tony continued, and sat up. "You know I've liked Peoria, and Baltimore, and that I like being in enforcement. I'm good at police work."

Jethro nodded and rocked them both, but didn't answer.

"Well, it's all been good, but Dad, I want something more. I want another focus, and I want to be closer to home."

Gibbs looked over sharply and studied his son's expression. Tony looked serious, and determined. His jaw was clenched.

"Daddy," he sucked in a breath and plunged, "I want to work as an NCIS agent. I want to do what you do. It's challenging, it's intellectual, and it's teamwork. That's what I want, and I want to be here, in Washington, also. I already talked to the Director, and have gotten the go ahead. But, I won't do any of this without your support, and your blessing, and your permission."

Jethro clarified, "You talked to the director today, Son? I was out on a case most of the day."

Tony nodded, and said, "I know, Dad, but I made an appointment a couple of weeks ago."

"Why didn't you say anything to me?"

"I wanted to tell you after it was over."

"Ok, I think I see. So what happened with the Director?"

"I was offered a position, Dad."

Tony moved quickly and faced his dad, noting the expression of concern on his father's face.

Jethro pulled him over in a hug and whispered, "You have always made me proud to have you for a son, always, Anthony."

Tony nodded against his dad and then pulled back.

"You still haven't given me your permission, Dad."

"Son, if this is what you want to do, you have my blessing. I will always back you- you know that. We don't even need to continue the conversation." He smiled and leaned down to pick up his plate. "Now, I think we need to clean up out here, then head indoors. Don't you want to call Abuela and tell her? She will be proud, as well. For that matter, your grandpa will be just as excited and supportive."

Jethro sat up straight and looked down at Tony. "You never, ever need to doubt that a decision you make will not be up to my standards, Son. I know you won't believe this, but you are a far better man than I, and your own standards are what you need to satisfy."

Tony nodded, taking in his dad's words, "Yes sir-"

The two drifted into silence, and rocked gently for another minute. Finally Jethro stood up and stretched.

"Now, I cooked, so you clean, Anthony. I am heading for the basement." Jethro swept out his arms to indicate the supper remains and Tony groaned out loud.

"Dad, really, you know I hate cleaning the grill. Couldn't we..."

Before he could finish, his father interrupted, "No, we couldn't. Clean up without whining, then join me inside, or come with me now, then get back out here and clean up with a stinging bottom. Which will it be?"

Tony grinned, "Not with you, Dad, not with you..."