Invitation
December 24th, NCIS, 6.30pm
Tony was sitting at his desk, finishing his paperwork, counting minutes for leaving home. Christmas. However, it didn't mean much to him. Not this year. In past few years, he used to invite some hot girl to his apartment, usually stayed for a night or two. But not this year. Everything had changed a lot. He took a look to his partner working opposite to him. Her dark, tender eyes were following her hand, writing a case report.
»So, Dah-veed,« he heard himself say, »What are ya doing for Christmas?«
»In our family, we don't celebrate Christmas,« she smirked.
»Then Kanuk or whatever you do celebrate.«
Ziva rolled her eyes. »It's actually Hanukkah.« She waited a little.
»But let me answer on your question. I am not doing anything or visiting anyone for 'Christmas'. And you are taking some hot babes from the bar and take them home, I suppose, as usually.« If he wouldn't know her better he'd say she was a little jealous. But that was impossible. Ziva David was never jealous.
»Well, actually, no, I'm not,« Tony said with proud voice.
Ziva raised her eyebrows. »That's strange, Anthony DiNozzo. So may I ask what are you actually doing for Christmas?« she glanced at him.
»Truthfully? Nothing.« Ziva's eyebrows threated they were going to disappear under her hair.
»I'm impressed. So you're going to spend this Christmas alone?« She blinked.
»Actually, Zee-vah, I was just going to ask you spending Christmas with me.« Ziva blinked more.
»Okay,« she suddenly said, a little hesitating.
»Okay what?« Tony said, obviously surprised.
»Okay, I'm gonna spend Christmas with you.«
»You must've lost your mind,« Tony muttered so she couldn't hear him.
»What?«
»Nothing, nothing. I mean, great, yeah… uh. My place, at 8pm.«
»I disagree.«
»What?«
»My place. Tony, truthfully, you aren't really able to cook Christmas dinner. You would probably order some Chinese food or pizza. So, my house. At 8pm.«
Tony thought a little and then he nodded.
»Deal,« he said.
»However, if I want to cook a dinner until 8pm you have to finish my report.« When she saw expression on his face, she continued quickly. »Oh, come on, it remained just a little. And, believe me. It will be worth of it.« He rolled his eyes and then gave up.
»Okay.«
Ziva grabbed her backpack and hurried to the elevator. Her heart was beating fast. Tony asked her being with him on Christmas evening. Good God.
»Oh, and, Tony,« she cried just before stepped into the lift, »bring some Christmas movies.«
Tony blinked. »Are you okay…? Do you have a fever or something…?« Ziva just waved him and disappeared through the elevator door.
Ziva just put a very-American-Christmas-food [a.k.a. chicken] in the oven when the bell rang. Tony was obviously too early and she wasn't even appropriate dressed.
»Damn,« she cursed as she tied her robe and went to open the door.
»Hey,« Tony greeted. Ziva raised her eyebrows.
»You really should be more on time, I'm not even appropriate dressed!« she frowned.
»Whatever. You can dress whatever you like while I'm gonna take this tree into your living room.«
»What-« she was cut off when Tony came in, dragging a Christmas tree with him. And a huge box which appeared to be full of ornaments.
»I thought you had to get dressed,« Tony smirked.
»Oh… Yeah. I guess.« Ziva was totally stunned. She went along the corridor and disappeared into the bathroom.
Ziva took a deep breath. Probably the deepest ever in her lifetime. She never imagined her and Tony together on Christmas eve, let alone with the Christmas tree! And most likely watching All I want for Christmas. Ziva collected herself and put some comfortable and cute clothes on. Brushed her hair. Put on some make-up, hoping Tony'll like it. She could hear Tony singing his version of Jingle Bells in her living room. Ziva stepped out of the bathroom.
»Oh, finally, Zee-vah. And, before you ask why I didn't ornate that tree yet, let me answer on your not-yet-asked question. X-mas is a family holiday, which means you have to help me with those ornaments.« Tony looked her expectantly.
»I guess I don't have a choice. But before you say anything I tell you that I have never before ornate a Christmas tree so I guess I'll do more damage then good.«
»If you say so, Dah-veed. And now help me with those, please.«
Ziva stepped closer and hesitately put some ornaments on the tree.
»Very good, Zee-vah. You're not as terrible as I thought.«
Ziva frowned and threw another ornament to his head. And so the battle begun. Tony and Ziva were laughing and stoning things aroud until oven bell rang.
»Oh, good God,« Ziva laughed, »I hope you're hungry.«
Tony nodded and followed her into the kitchen-dining room. God, he was so in love with her. But he was not able to confess any of his feelings, not yet. Not ruining this eve.
Ziva bent over to take the chicken out of the oven. Tony admired her body as she did.
»Stop watching my butt, Tony,« Ziva smiled while taking the food out.
»I was just-«
Ziva gave him a meaningful look and put food and drinks of the table.
»Enjoy your meal,« Tony wished her. Ziva raised her eyebrows and nodded at him.
They were talking and eating for a hour, maybe more, Ziva certainly forgot about the time. Spending it with Tony was the most wonderful thing she could do for Christmas.
»Ah, Dah-veed,« Tony said happily, »Here we go: my favorite part of this evening. Movieeees.«
»Oh, I thought your favorite part was watching my butt,« Ziva laughed as they headed to her living room.
»Well, that was certainly-«
»Shh. Don't say it,« she rolled her eyes.
They sat on the couch as Tony took the bag with movies in it, but did not put them in the DVD-Player.
»Zee-vah,« he hesitated, »I… want to tell ya something.« Ziva gave him questioning look. Her heart was racing, too fast.
»Spit in, then.«
Tony laughed. »It terms 'Spit out'.«
Ziva rolled her eyes. »Whatever.«
Tony opened his mouth, but knowing he won't say it. He just leant closer to Ziva, feeling her breath against his, looked into her eyes and suddenly touched her lips with his.
The room exploded. Ziva David thought she was dreaming. Anthony DiNozzo, the man she spent to many evenings dreaming of him, just kissed her. She caressed his lower lip with her tongue as he bit her upper lip. She wrapped her arms around his neck, pulling him closer. She felt his body against his, burning. His hands slipped on her neck, then on her breasts. It felt so good, so right. Her hand ran through his soft, messy hair while her second hand tried to unbutton his shirt. His lips slipped down to her neck, kissing it. His teeth buried to her skin, which felt so smooth, which smell so smooth and amazing. Ziva moaned and then… he pulled off.
It was certainly the hardest thing he'd ever done, but he had to say it. They were breathing hardly while he said:
»I…I… Ani Ohev Otach, Zee-vah.« I love you, Ziva.
It drew lucky smile on her face and she replied:
»Ti amo troppo,« she said happily. I love you too. He held her face and kissed her lips again. So that's how heaven are like, Tony thought. He felt Ziva's gentle fingers under his shirt and kissed her more passionate. While she was taking his shirt off, he caressed her cheeks, then her neck and then moved on her breasts. Ziva moaned again and pressed her lips harder to his. And suddenly he raised her body and headed to her bedroom and lay her on the bed. Tony kissed her neck again till he reached the first button and undo it. Before they could even aware they were completely naked lying on the bed, kissing, caressing, moaning. The most beautiful Christmas they have ever had.
Tony and Ziva lay on the bed, wrapping around each other.
»Zee-vah?«
»Mhm?«
»Ya know what's wonderful? Besides lying with you, naked, in love, on Christmas?«
Ziva laughed. »Lying with you, naked, in love, on Christmas?«
»False. It's that we do not have work today. And no dealing with Rule #12. Yet.«
Ziva laughed again. »I like the first part. No work. Doing whatever we want. All day long.« She buried her face into his chest.
»Ooh. I love you Zee-vah,« he said when she made the trail of kisses to bury in his neck.
»I know,« she muttered to his torso. Tony kissed her on the top of the head.
»Mmm… I really have to take a shower. I stink and I'm sweaty and-« Tony shut her up with a kiss.
»Uuh. I think you do not stink, not at all,« he moaned.
»That's because you love me,« she frowned.
»Indeed. However, if you really have to take a shower, then do it with me.«
Ziva thought a little and then replied: »Go ahead.«
Spending Christmas
»Augh, are you crazy? We were out there for almost a hour!«
Tony laughed. »Yeah, indeed, we have to repeat it someday.«
Ziva rolled her eyes and wrapped a towel around her body. The thing in the shower has made her… uh, more blissful and happier, if that was even possible.
»And, please, Zee-vah, get dressed. This towel makes me sick. It's too much temptation around here,« Tony growled with martyr voice. Ziva raised her eyebrows.
»Do you think you're any better in this… robe?« she moaned.
»Sure thing. Ah, whatever. Just get dressed or I'll do something… well, I don't really know what, but I'll subjugate my instincts.«
Ziva frowned but disappeared into the bedroom to take on some clothes. While she was dressing Tony made some breakfast and tea and then he was the one who got dressed. When he came back, Ziva was already eating.
»You know, you are not so bad cook as I thought,« she said as she looked at him.
»Thanks,« Tony frowned and got some tea.
»Hey, Zee-vah,« Tony suddenly said, »I don't know what you people do in Israel but here we open presents on the Christmas morning that we put under the Christmas tree. So, I've put ya something under-« he was cut off by Ziva's look. »What?« he asked.
»Tony, you really wouldn't have to buy me any-«
»Hey, may I suggest something? Shut up,« he smiled, but Ziva's upset was still there.
»Come on, why I shouldn't have bought ya something? And if it makes you feel any better, it did not cost that much, so could you please give me some good-feeling with buying you a Christmas present?« Tony looked at her. Ziva thought a little and the smiled.
»Okay,« she said, »Let's see what did Anthony Dinozzo bought to me.«
They headed in the living room and there was a small satin box with a bow tied around it.
Ziva turned to him eagerly. »I know you said you did not spend too much but that thing loo-«
»It's better to seek forgiveness then ask permission. Number 18.« Ziva obviously gave up and took the box.
»Okay, I am not really sure if I want to open it.«
»God, you know that you do. Come oooooon.«
Ziva rolled her eyes and took a breath. And opened the box.
There was a necklace; but not just any necklace. Tony bought her a necklace with a Star of David, similar to one she'd lost in Somalia. Ziva gasped.
»Tony… You… I-i am speechless,« she stuttered.
»Yeah, I noticed that somehow,« he replied.
Ziva wanted to say something, to thank him, but he surprised her, caught her unprepared.
»I… Thank you, Tony,« she was able to say before kissed his cheek and hugged him, though with only one arm – she was still holding her necklace in the other.
»You're welcome, Ziva,« he said tenderly and wrapped his arm around her now weak body.
»Would you mind…?« Ziva begun as she raised the necklace up. Tony didn't say a word but took it and gently placed it around her neck. Familiar weight of her Star of David leaned on her chest again and she felt more herself in the second. Tony however did not remove his hands from her neck – he caressed it and felt her soft, dark hair interlacing his fingers. There suddenly appeared also her fingers, touching his as she caressed her collarbone. Ziva turned around, their eyes locked at each other's. And before she barely awared of, tear slipped down her cheek. Tony surprisingly intercepted it – Ziva David never cried. Never. Ever. In her life. Entire existence. But before he could say a word, she smiled and Tony figured it was most likely tear of happiness. Nonetheless, Ziva David never cried!
»I know you're happy and those things, but you're crazy ninja! You don't cry!« Words slipped out of Tony's mouth before he was able to stop them. Ziva laughed.
»Why does everyone think I'm insensitive? I do have feelings, believe or not. It's just… I hide them. It's the way no one can hurt me,« she finished bitterly.
»I won't hurt you, Ziva. And I do not think you're insensitive! I mean, after last night, huh…« Tony replied playfully, »And, God, you didn't even hide those feelings…« He laughed and Ziva joined him.
»I don't want to hide them,« she said a little more quietly, »You know, it's like the secret you'd like to spread out to the whole world. Including, huh, Gibbs,« she obviously hesitated by saying the last word.
»I know, Zee-vah,« Tony said peacefully, »I know.« By that, he hugged her.
They were standing there for a very long while when Ziva's cell interrupted their peaceful silence.
»David,« she picked up. She listened to the voice for a moment and then said, »But, Gibbs… Yeah, I know… It's Christmas, for God's sake!... I know, but… that doesn't mean… It doesn't change anythi- Gibbs!« He obviously hung up.
»Is it what I think it is?« Tony asked pretty upset. Ziva frowned.
»Unfortunateley, yeah, Gibbs wants us at the crime scene near Alexandria. Asap.« She shut up for a moment and then continued, »I know, it sucks.«
Tony studied her a little and then said: »How do you feel about breaking another Gibbs' rule?«
Ziva looked at him suspiciously. »If you mean the one with knife, I tell you I'm not taking it off.« Tony laughed. »I mean the one which says »follow the orders«. Ziva's suspicion grew bigger.
»Is that even a rule?« Tony shrugged.
»I have no idea. But I'm definateley seeing Gibbs on my favorite Christmas ever.«
Ziva smiled at him. »Favorite? Really really favorite ever?«
»Indeed,« Tony grinned.
»Alright then,« Ziva said, »Shall we watch the last night's movie?«
Tony raised his eyebrows. »You… You… Ziva David wants to watch a movie?«
Ziva did not answer but headed to the bag he brought last evening.
»Home alone?« Ziva laughed. Tony blinked but smiled anyway.
»Yeah, y'know, it's… classic. And if you maybe thought we're watching All I want for Christmas, you were wrong. I do not like that movie at all.« Ziva bit her lip but threw DVD to Tony.
»Go ahead,« she said as she threw herself onto the couch. Tony put the film into her DVD-Player and headed to the kitchen to take something eatable.
Ziva laughed.
»This,« she said, »Is the best movie I have ever seen.«
Tony laughed with her. He loved the sound of her laughing, though she wasn't laughing very often. It made him so weak. She made him weak.
He placed his arm around her shoulders and she snuggled up to him and leaned her head on his chest.
»God,« Tony said, »Gibbs' going to kill us.«
Ziva grinned and hugged him more tightly.
»It's worth, isn't it?« she muttered.
»Huh, do you even have to ask?« he mumbled to answer as he kissed her on the top of the head.
»Love you,« Ziva muttered and buried her face into his chest. Tony caressed her back lovingly and replied: »I love you too.«
His sweet whisper reached Ziva's ears and she was finally able to unbury her face and locked his eyes to hers. Tony smiled as his finger caressed her jawbone. He stopped at her chin when he gently and slowly pulled her face closer. Their lips almost touched and then… Gibbs interrupted again. Tony rolled his eyes [as did Ziva] and she pick up.
»He'll break in there other way,« she whispered. Tony nodded.
»Gibbs,« Ziva said into the phone, »I-I know, but… Gibbs! You have to… You have to understand… What? T-tony? No… I have no id- Gibbs!« She threw her cell on the couch.
»He hung up. And he'll call you now, I guess,« Ziva said angrily.
»Damn,« DiNozzo cursed when his mobile rang. »Here we go again,« he muttered but did not pick up. He rejected call and then turned his and Ziva's cell off.
»He'll most likely now-« Ziva begun but Tony cut her off.
»Yeah, I know. He'll come here.« They were quiet for a moment.
»Tony,« Ziva asked when he stood up and got dressed.
»What are you-« she said but Tony interrupted again.
»I'm taking you to the park.«
Tony and Ziva walked slowly, wrapping around each other's arms, their coats and hats snowed in.
»This is the most stereotypical romantic Christmas ever,« Ziva grinned. Tony agreed and interlaced fingers with hers.
»Oh, my God,« Ziva suddenly paled, »Look at there,« her eyes widened.
»Oh, my… Shit!« Tony screwed as he took a look to the pig-tailed goth woman merrily walking down the pavement.
»Jeeze,« Ziva breathed heavily, »Tony, do I have to use a paperclip to tell you 'drop my hand'?« she hissed. He actually dropped it and rapidly turned around.
»Are we really no where safe?« Tony hissed.
»We're not, indeed,« Ziva replied tiredly.
»But… Besides,« Tony hesitated, »It's so… Ziva, you know I love you and that's not something… That's not something I'd want to hide.« Ziva remained silent.
»Come on,« he said as he pulled her arm and headed directly to Abby's way.
»Tony!« Ziva hissed, »What are you…« she shut up for a second and then called: »Abby!«
Abigail Sciuto was watching Christmas skulls in the window when heard someone called her name.
»Oh. My. Goodness,« she whispered to herself when saw Tony and Ziva running in her direction, fingers blinked. »I knew it!«
Ziva blinked. »Knew what, Abby?«
»I knew it! When Gibbs said you two didn't come to the crime scene!« Abby seemed totally blessed.
»Abby…?« Ziva asked again.
»Awww!« Goth forensic said, squeaky voice. »Tiva!« she screamed, »Tiva, Tiva, Tiva!«
»Translation, Abbs?« Tony pleaded.
»You guys are TOGETHER! You spent Christmas TOGETHER. God know what you were doing, but let's leave this thing beside for a little longer. TIVA!« Abby gave them one of her giant, not-able-to-be-prepared-on hugs.
»Abby… Air…« Ziva gasped.
»Oh, yeah. I always forget about that. Sorry.« She still did not seem calm enough.
»Mind explain…?« Tony asked again.
»Tony!« Abby shouted, »You two are TIVA! Like Tony + Ziva! But… augh, whatever. ZIVA!« Abby attacked and Ziva blinked.
»How is having sex with Anthony DiNozzo?« Abby looked at her expectantly.
Ziva blushed which told seriousness of Abby's question. Ziva David never blushed.
»Abbs…« Tony started, or better, tried to start, cause forensic scientist interrupted.
»Shut up, Tony. Ziva?« she turned to her again, Ziva's face completely scarlet.
»Is it good?« Abby's eyed widened. Ziva shook her head. Tony seemed to be pretty uncomfortable, but Abby remained happy.
»Is it wonderful?« She continued. Now Zee-vah nodded.
»Ow! I knew it!«
Ziva blinked surprised and suspiciously stared at Tony.
»You knew?« she asked Abby, which just grinned.
»Not knew knew. I knew you guys were gonna get together soon!« Now they both blinked. Abby noticed and rolled her eyes. »Come ON! Everyone knew. Except you two. I mean, even Gibbs did! And you know how blind is he speaking of love stuff.«
»G-gibbs knows?« Tony stuttered. Abby tried to remain serious.
»Yeah. Whatever. I'll leave now… Oh, and don't worry, I'll call Gibbs about not breaking into your apartment. Have FUN!« she screamed the last word and disappeared.
»Good,« Ziva said, shaken, »Let's go home then.«
…And the happy new year!
Christmas passed, Abby appeared to organize New-Year party, invited McGee, herself, Ziva, Tony, Gibbs, Ducky and Palmer.
»But, Abbs,« Tony whispered in Abby's lab so quiet that Gibbs wouldn't heard them, »You know how we planned to spe-«
»Tony!« Abby challenged, »You have to come! It won't be the same without you! And, besides, New Year is the longest night in the year! Somehow. So I'll let you two go after midnight or something like that and then go ahead, do whatever you want.« Abigail Sciuto remained stubborn.
»OK, OK. When we arrive?«
By that, conversation closed. Tony and Ziva headed to the elevator.
»Think she'll really let us go?« Tony asked.
»Nah,« Ziva replied as elevator dinged and its door closed.
»Abby?« Ziva knocked on Abby's door at 11pm. Obviously no one had arrived yet.
»Ziva! You came!« Abby caught Ziva unprepared and gave her one of her 'hugs'. Ziva tried to breath while saying: »O-of course I came…! Has Tony arrived yet?« Abby suddenly let her go.
»Jeeze, Ziva, can't you two think about nothing else but each other?«
»Abby.«
»Oh,« Abigail rolled her eyes, »No. No one has arrived yet. So come here. You'll help me with these.«
Tony DiNozzo pressed button for doorbell at Abby's apartment. He heard Abbs' strange music playing inside as someone came to open the door.
»Hey,« Ziva greeted, »Abby's in the bathroom.« Tony leaned down and kissed her.
»Tony!« Tony's hand stopped running through Ziva's hair when interrupted no other than Goth forensic. »Can you two stop making out in my apartment?«
Ziva hesitated. »For now, I think yes.«
Abbs moaned and headed back to the bathroom and as she left, they shared another kiss.
Doorbell rang – for the third time this evening.
»Gibbs!«
»Abbs,« Gibbs smiled at her and gave her present that would make her the happiest person in the world.
»Yum,« Abby moaned as she took a sip of Caf-POW!
»McPresent arrived,« Tony muttered when Abby jumped of the couch and went to open the door.
»McGee!« she screamed, »You're late! It's 1130!«
»Sorry, Abby, Sarah did not let me go…« McGoo apologized. Abby's face went dark.
»Sarah?«
McGee noticed her dissatisfaction and quickly corrected. »Um… My, uh, sister.«
»Aah,« Abby got happier and placed herself in McGee's lap. Gibbs seemed he didn't even notice breaking the rule in front of his eyes. Tony and Ziva didn't even share a look, not risking if he would.
Time passed and group went to Abby's balcony to watch Washington D.C.'s fireworks.
Abby held McGee and Gibbs' hand tightly, Tony held Ziva's in the way Gibbs couldn't see.
»Ten,« Abby screamed, »Nine! Eight! Seven! Six! Five! Four! Three! Two! One! Happy New Year!«
City in front of their eyes exploded. Abby hugged McGee and Gibbs tightly, screaming her best wishes.
Tony took Ziva's face into his hands and held her face close to his.
»Happy New Year.« He pressed his lips to hers. Ziva returned the kiss and bit his lip. Tony answered with pressing his body to hers even more tightly and buried his hand to her hair. She wrapped her arms around his neck.
Abby, Gibbs and McGoo turned around to wish Ziva and Tony Happy New Year. Gibbs' face stoned, McGee's went surprised, Abby's happily. She noticed Gibbs already opening his mouth, no doubt wanted to remind on rule Number 12, and stopped him.
»Gibbs,« she whispered, »Leave them alone, for God's sake!«
»Abbs! They are making out in your flat!«
»Oh, yeah, Gibbs, let's pretend that you didn't know they're in love!« Abby argued. Gibbs frowned.
»And, besides,« Abby continued, »Who argued to you and Jenny?« That kept Gibbs' mouth shut.
Minutes passed, but Tony and Ziva did not stop. Finally McGoo lost his mind.
»Hey, would you mind stop kissing and making out? We can't leave if you're standing on our way to living room!« That made Tony and Ziva separate and blinked surprised.
»Whoops,« Ziva breathed, »Gibbs, you need to-«
»Yeah, yeah, just move,« Gibbs said impatiently. Tony and Ziva stepped out of the way and McGee, Abby and Gibbs disappeared through the balcony door.
»Happy New Year to you,« Ziva muttered and kissed him again.
December 24th, NCIS, 6.30pm
Tony was sitting at his desk, finishing his paperwork, counting minutes for leaving home. Christmas. However, it didn't mean much to him. Not this year. In past few years, he used to invite some hot girl to his apartment, usually stayed for a night or two. But not this year. Everything had changed a lot. He took a look to his partner working opposite to him. Her dark, tender eyes were following her hand, writing a case report.
»So, Dah-veed,« he heard himself say, »What are ya doing for Christmas?«
»In our family, we don't celebrate Christmas,« she smirked.
»Then Kanuk or whatever you do celebrate.«
Ziva rolled her eyes. »It's actually Hanukkah.« She waited a little.
»But let me answer on your question. I am not doing anything or visiting anyone for 'Christmas'. And you are taking some hot babes from the bar and take them home, I suppose, as usually.« If he wouldn't know her better he'd say she was a little jealous. But that was impossible. Ziva David was never jealous.
»Well, actually, no, I'm not,« Tony said with proud voice.
Ziva raised her eyebrows. »That's strange, Anthony DiNozzo. So may I ask what are you actually doing for Christmas?« she glanced at him.
»Truthfully? Nothing.« Ziva's eyebrows threated they were going to disappear under her hair.
»I'm impressed. So you're going to spend this Christmas alone?« She blinked.
»Actually, Zee-vah, I was just going to ask you spending Christmas with me.« Ziva blinked more.
»Okay,« she suddenly said, a little hesitating.
»Okay what?« Tony said, obviously surprised.
»Okay, I'm gonna spend Christmas with you.«
»You must've lost your mind,« Tony muttered so she couldn't hear him.
»What?«
»Nothing, nothing. I mean, great, yeah… uh. My place, at 8pm.«
»I disagree.«
»What?«
»My place. Tony, truthfully, you aren't really able to cook Christmas dinner. You would probably order some Chinese food or pizza. So, my house. At 8pm.«
Tony thought a little and then he nodded.
»Deal,« he said.
»However, if I want to cook a dinner until 8pm you have to finish my report.« When she saw expression on his face, she continued quickly. »Oh, come on, it remained just a little. And, believe me. It will be worth of it.« He rolled his eyes and then gave up.
»Okay.«
Ziva grabbed her backpack and hurried to the elevator. Her heart was beating fast. Tony asked her being with him on Christmas evening. Good God.
»Oh, and, Tony,« she cried just before stepped into the lift, »bring some Christmas movies.«
Tony blinked. »Are you okay…? Do you have a fever or something…?« Ziva just waved him and disappeared through the elevator door.
Ziva just put a very-American-Christmas-food [a.k.a. chicken] in the oven when the bell rang. Tony was obviously too early and she wasn't even appropriate dressed.
»Damn,« she cursed as she tied her robe and went to open the door.
»Hey,« Tony greeted. Ziva raised her eyebrows.
»You really should be more on time, I'm not even appropriate dressed!« she frowned.
»Whatever. You can dress whatever you like while I'm gonna take this tree into your living room.«
»What-« she was cut off when Tony came in, dragging a Christmas tree with him. And a huge box which appeared to be full of ornaments.
»I thought you had to get dressed,« Tony smirked.
»Oh… Yeah. I guess.« Ziva was totally stunned. She went along the corridor and disappeared into the bathroom.
Ziva took a deep breath. Probably the deepest ever in her lifetime. She never imagined her and Tony together on Christmas eve, let alone with the Christmas tree! And most likely watching All I want for Christmas. Ziva collected herself and put some comfortable and cute clothes on. Brushed her hair. Put on some make-up, hoping Tony'll like it. She could hear Tony singing his version of Jingle Bells in her living room. Ziva stepped out of the bathroom.
»Oh, finally, Zee-vah. And, before you ask why I didn't ornate that tree yet, let me answer on your not-yet-asked question. X-mas is a family holiday, which means you have to help me with those ornaments.« Tony looked her expectantly.
»I guess I don't have a choice. But before you say anything I tell you that I have never before ornate a Christmas tree so I guess I'll do more damage then good.«
»If you say so, Dah-veed. And now help me with those, please.«
Ziva stepped closer and hesitately put some ornaments on the tree.
»Very good, Zee-vah. You're not as terrible as I thought.«
Ziva frowned and threw another ornament to his head. And so the battle begun. Tony and Ziva were laughing and stoning things aroud until oven bell rang.
»Oh, good God,« Ziva laughed, »I hope you're hungry.«
Tony nodded and followed her into the kitchen-dining room. God, he was so in love with her. But he was not able to confess any of his feelings, not yet. Not ruining this eve.
Ziva bent over to take the chicken out of the oven. Tony admired her body as she did.
»Stop watching my butt, Tony,« Ziva smiled while taking the food out.
»I was just-«
Ziva gave him a meaningful look and put food and drinks of the table.
»Enjoy your meal,« Tony wished her. Ziva raised her eyebrows and nodded at him.
They were talking and eating for a hour, maybe more, Ziva certainly forgot about the time. Spending it with Tony was the most wonderful thing she could do for Christmas.
»Ah, Dah-veed,« Tony said happily, »Here we go: my favorite part of this evening. Movieeees.«
»Oh, I thought your favorite part was watching my butt,« Ziva laughed as they headed to her living room.
»Well, that was certainly-«
»Shh. Don't say it,« she rolled her eyes.
They sat on the couch as Tony took the bag with movies in it, but did not put them in the DVD-Player.
»Zee-vah,« he hesitated, »I… want to tell ya something.« Ziva gave him questioning look. Her heart was racing, too fast.
»Spit in, then.«
Tony laughed. »It terms 'Spit out'.«
Ziva rolled her eyes. »Whatever.«
Tony opened his mouth, but knowing he won't say it. He just leant closer to Ziva, feeling her breath against his, looked into her eyes and suddenly touched her lips with his.
The room exploded. Ziva David thought she was dreaming. Anthony DiNozzo, the man she spent to many evenings dreaming of him, just kissed her. She caressed his lower lip with her tongue as he bit her upper lip. She wrapped her arms around his neck, pulling him closer. She felt his body against his, burning. His hands slipped on her neck, then on her breasts. It felt so good, so right. Her hand ran through his soft, messy hair while her second hand tried to unbutton his shirt. His lips slipped down to her neck, kissing it. His teeth buried to her skin, which felt so smooth, which smell so smooth and amazing. Ziva moaned and then… he pulled off.
It was certainly the hardest thing he'd ever done, but he had to say it. They were breathing hardly while he said:
»I…I… Ani Ohev Otach, Zee-vah.« I love you, Ziva.
It drew lucky smile on her face and she replied:
»Ti amo troppo,« she said happily. I love you too. He held her face and kissed her lips again. So that's how heaven are like, Tony thought. He felt Ziva's gentle fingers under his shirt and kissed her more passionate. While she was taking his shirt off, he caressed her cheeks, then her neck and then moved on her breasts. Ziva moaned again and pressed her lips harder to his. And suddenly he raised her body and headed to her bedroom and lay her on the bed. Tony kissed her neck again till he reached the first button and undo it. Before they could even aware they were completely naked lying on the bed, kissing, caressing, moaning. The most beautiful Christmas they have ever had.
Tony and Ziva lay on the bed, wrapping around each other.
»Zee-vah?«
»Mhm?«
»Ya know what's wonderful? Besides lying with you, naked, in love, on Christmas?«
Ziva laughed. »Lying with you, naked, in love, on Christmas?«
»False. It's that we do not have work today. And no dealing with Rule #12. Yet.«
Ziva laughed again. »I like the first part. No work. Doing whatever we want. All day long.« She buried her face into his chest.
»Ooh. I love you Zee-vah,« he said when she made the trail of kisses to bury in his neck.
»I know,« she muttered to his torso. Tony kissed her on the top of the head.
»Mmm… I really have to take a shower. I stink and I'm sweaty and-« Tony shut her up with a kiss.
»Uuh. I think you do not stink, not at all,« he moaned.
»That's because you love me,« she frowned.
»Indeed. However, if you really have to take a shower, then do it with me.«
Ziva thought a little and then replied: »Go ahead.«
Spending Christmas
»Augh, are you crazy? We were out there for almost a hour!«
Tony laughed. »Yeah, indeed, we have to repeat it someday.«
Ziva rolled her eyes and wrapped a towel around her body. The thing in the shower has made her… uh, more blissful and happier, if that was even possible.
»And, please, Zee-vah, get dressed. This towel makes me sick. It's too much temptation around here,« Tony growled with martyr voice. Ziva raised her eyebrows.
»Do you think you're any better in this… robe?« she moaned.
»Sure thing. Ah, whatever. Just get dressed or I'll do something… well, I don't really know what, but I'll subjugate my instincts.«
Ziva frowned but disappeared into the bedroom to take on some clothes. While she was dressing Tony made some breakfast and tea and then he was the one who got dressed. When he came back, Ziva was already eating.
»You know, you are not so bad cook as I thought,« she said as she looked at him.
»Thanks,« Tony frowned and got some tea.
»Hey, Zee-vah,« Tony suddenly said, »I don't know what you people do in Israel but here we open presents on the Christmas morning that we put under the Christmas tree. So, I've put ya something under-« he was cut off by Ziva's look. »What?« he asked.
»Tony, you really wouldn't have to buy me any-«
»Hey, may I suggest something? Shut up,« he smiled, but Ziva's upset was still there.
»Come on, why I shouldn't have bought ya something? And if it makes you feel any better, it did not cost that much, so could you please give me some good-feeling with buying you a Christmas present?« Tony looked at her. Ziva thought a little and the smiled.
»Okay,« she said, »Let's see what did Anthony Dinozzo bought to me.«
They headed in the living room and there was a small satin box with a bow tied around it.
Ziva turned to him eagerly. »I know you said you did not spend too much but that thing loo-«
»It's better to seek forgiveness then ask permission. Number 18.« Ziva obviously gave up and took the box.
»Okay, I am not really sure if I want to open it.«
»God, you know that you do. Come oooooon.«
Ziva rolled her eyes and took a breath. And opened the box.
There was a necklace; but not just any necklace. Tony bought her a necklace with a Star of David, similar to one she'd lost in Somalia. Ziva gasped.
»Tony… You… I-i am speechless,« she stuttered.
»Yeah, I noticed that somehow,« he replied.
Ziva wanted to say something, to thank him, but he surprised her, caught her unprepared.
»I… Thank you, Tony,« she was able to say before kissed his cheek and hugged him, though with only one arm – she was still holding her necklace in the other.
»You're welcome, Ziva,« he said tenderly and wrapped his arm around her now weak body.
»Would you mind…?« Ziva begun as she raised the necklace up. Tony didn't say a word but took it and gently placed it around her neck. Familiar weight of her Star of David leaned on her chest again and she felt more herself in the second. Tony however did not remove his hands from her neck – he caressed it and felt her soft, dark hair interlacing his fingers. There suddenly appeared also her fingers, touching his as she caressed her collarbone. Ziva turned around, their eyes locked at each other's. And before she barely awared of, tear slipped down her cheek. Tony surprisingly intercepted it – Ziva David never cried. Never. Ever. In her life. Entire existence. But before he could say a word, she smiled and Tony figured it was most likely tear of happiness. Nonetheless, Ziva David never cried!
»I know you're happy and those things, but you're crazy ninja! You don't cry!« Words slipped out of Tony's mouth before he was able to stop them. Ziva laughed.
»Why does everyone think I'm insensitive? I do have feelings, believe or not. It's just… I hide them. It's the way no one can hurt me,« she finished bitterly.
»I won't hurt you, Ziva. And I do not think you're insensitive! I mean, after last night, huh…« Tony replied playfully, »And, God, you didn't even hide those feelings…« He laughed and Ziva joined him.
»I don't want to hide them,« she said a little more quietly, »You know, it's like the secret you'd like to spread out to the whole world. Including, huh, Gibbs,« she obviously hesitated by saying the last word.
»I know, Zee-vah,« Tony said peacefully, »I know.« By that, he hugged her.
They were standing there for a very long while when Ziva's cell interrupted their peaceful silence.
»David,« she picked up. She listened to the voice for a moment and then said, »But, Gibbs… Yeah, I know… It's Christmas, for God's sake!... I know, but… that doesn't mean… It doesn't change anythi- Gibbs!« He obviously hung up.
»Is it what I think it is?« Tony asked pretty upset. Ziva frowned.
»Unfortunateley, yeah, Gibbs wants us at the crime scene near Alexandria. Asap.« She shut up for a moment and then continued, »I know, it sucks.«
Tony studied her a little and then said: »How do you feel about breaking another Gibbs' rule?«
Ziva looked at him suspiciously. »If you mean the one with knife, I tell you I'm not taking it off.« Tony laughed. »I mean the one which says »follow the orders«. Ziva's suspicion grew bigger.
»Is that even a rule?« Tony shrugged.
»I have no idea. But I'm definateley seeing Gibbs on my favorite Christmas ever.«
Ziva smiled at him. »Favorite? Really really favorite ever?«
»Indeed,« Tony grinned.
»Alright then,« Ziva said, »Shall we watch the last night's movie?«
Tony raised his eyebrows. »You… You… Ziva David wants to watch a movie?«
Ziva did not answer but headed to the bag he brought last evening.
»Home alone?« Ziva laughed. Tony blinked but smiled anyway.
»Yeah, y'know, it's… classic. And if you maybe thought we're watching All I want for Christmas, you were wrong. I do not like that movie at all.« Ziva bit her lip but threw DVD to Tony.
»Go ahead,« she said as she threw herself onto the couch. Tony put the film into her DVD-Player and headed to the kitchen to take something eatable.
Ziva laughed.
»This,« she said, »Is the best movie I have ever seen.«
Tony laughed with her. He loved the sound of her laughing, though she wasn't laughing very often. It made him so weak. She made him weak.
He placed his arm around her shoulders and she snuggled up to him and leaned her head on his chest.
»God,« Tony said, »Gibbs' going to kill us.«
Ziva grinned and hugged him more tightly.
»It's worth, isn't it?« she muttered.
»Huh, do you even have to ask?« he mumbled to answer as he kissed her on the top of the head.
»Love you,« Ziva muttered and buried her face into his chest. Tony caressed her back lovingly and replied: »I love you too.«
His sweet whisper reached Ziva's ears and she was finally able to unbury her face and locked his eyes to hers. Tony smiled as his finger caressed her jawbone. He stopped at her chin when he gently and slowly pulled her face closer. Their lips almost touched and then… Gibbs interrupted again. Tony rolled his eyes [as did Ziva] and she pick up.
»He'll break in there other way,« she whispered. Tony nodded.
»Gibbs,« Ziva said into the phone, »I-I know, but… Gibbs! You have to… You have to understand… What? T-tony? No… I have no id- Gibbs!« She threw her cell on the couch.
»He hung up. And he'll call you now, I guess,« Ziva said angrily.
»Damn,« DiNozzo cursed when his mobile rang. »Here we go again,« he muttered but did not pick up. He rejected call and then turned his and Ziva's cell off.
»He'll most likely now-« Ziva begun but Tony cut her off.
»Yeah, I know. He'll come here.« They were quiet for a moment.
»Tony,« Ziva asked when he stood up and got dressed.
»What are you-« she said but Tony interrupted again.
»I'm taking you to the park.«
Tony and Ziva walked slowly, wrapping around each other's arms, their coats and hats snowed in.
»This is the most stereotypical romantic Christmas ever,« Ziva grinned. Tony agreed and interlaced fingers with hers.
»Oh, my God,« Ziva suddenly paled, »Look at there,« her eyes widened.
»Oh, my… Shit!« Tony screwed as he took a look to the pig-tailed goth woman merrily walking down the pavement.
»Jeeze,« Ziva breathed heavily, »Tony, do I have to use a paperclip to tell you 'drop my hand'?« she hissed. He actually dropped it and rapidly turned around.
»Are we really no where safe?« Tony hissed.
»We're not, indeed,« Ziva replied tiredly.
»But… Besides,« Tony hesitated, »It's so… Ziva, you know I love you and that's not something… That's not something I'd want to hide.« Ziva remained silent.
»Come on,« he said as he pulled her arm and headed directly to Abby's way.
»Tony!« Ziva hissed, »What are you…« she shut up for a second and then called: »Abby!«
Abigail Sciuto was watching Christmas skulls in the window when heard someone called her name.
»Oh. My. Goodness,« she whispered to herself when saw Tony and Ziva running in her direction, fingers blinked. »I knew it!«
Ziva blinked. »Knew what, Abby?«
»I knew it! When Gibbs said you two didn't come to the crime scene!« Abby seemed totally blessed.
»Abby…?« Ziva asked again.
»Awww!« Goth forensic said, squeaky voice. »Tiva!« she screamed, »Tiva, Tiva, Tiva!«
»Translation, Abbs?« Tony pleaded.
»You guys are TOGETHER! You spent Christmas TOGETHER. God know what you were doing, but let's leave this thing beside for a little longer. TIVA!« Abby gave them one of her giant, not-able-to-be-prepared-on hugs.
»Abby… Air…« Ziva gasped.
»Oh, yeah. I always forget about that. Sorry.« She still did not seem calm enough.
»Mind explain…?« Tony asked again.
»Tony!« Abby shouted, »You two are TIVA! Like Tony + Ziva! But… augh, whatever. ZIVA!« Abby attacked and Ziva blinked.
»How is having sex with Anthony DiNozzo?« Abby looked at her expectantly.
Ziva blushed which told seriousness of Abby's question. Ziva David never blushed.
»Abbs…« Tony started, or better, tried to start, cause forensic scientist interrupted.
»Shut up, Tony. Ziva?« she turned to her again, Ziva's face completely scarlet.
»Is it good?« Abby's eyed widened. Ziva shook her head. Tony seemed to be pretty uncomfortable, but Abby remained happy.
»Is it wonderful?« She continued. Now Zee-vah nodded.
»Ow! I knew it!«
Ziva blinked surprised and suspiciously stared at Tony.
»You knew?« she asked Abby, which just grinned.
»Not knew knew. I knew you guys were gonna get together soon!« Now they both blinked. Abby noticed and rolled her eyes. »Come ON! Everyone knew. Except you two. I mean, even Gibbs did! And you know how blind is he speaking of love stuff.«
»G-gibbs knows?« Tony stuttered. Abby tried to remain serious.
»Yeah. Whatever. I'll leave now… Oh, and don't worry, I'll call Gibbs about not breaking into your apartment. Have FUN!« she screamed the last word and disappeared.
»Good,« Ziva said, shaken, »Let's go home then.«
…And the happy new year!
Christmas passed, Abby appeared to organize New-Year party, invited McGee, herself, Ziva, Tony, Gibbs, Ducky and Palmer.
»But, Abbs,« Tony whispered in Abby's lab so quiet that Gibbs wouldn't heard them, »You know how we planned to spe-«
»Tony!« Abby challenged, »You have to come! It won't be the same without you! And, besides, New Year is the longest night in the year! Somehow. So I'll let you two go after midnight or something like that and then go ahead, do whatever you want.« Abigail Sciuto remained stubborn.
»OK, OK. When we arrive?«
By that, conversation closed. Tony and Ziva headed to the elevator.
»Think she'll really let us go?« Tony asked.
»Nah,« Ziva replied as elevator dinged and its door closed.
»Abby?« Ziva knocked on Abby's door at 11pm. Obviously no one had arrived yet.
»Ziva! You came!« Abby caught Ziva unprepared and gave her one of her 'hugs'. Ziva tried to breath while saying: »O-of course I came…! Has Tony arrived yet?« Abby suddenly let her go.
»Jeeze, Ziva, can't you two think about nothing else but each other?«
»Abby.«
»Oh,« Abigail rolled her eyes, »No. No one has arrived yet. So come here. You'll help me with these.«
Tony DiNozzo pressed button for doorbell at Abby's apartment. He heard Abbs' strange music playing inside as someone came to open the door.
»Hey,« Ziva greeted, »Abby's in the bathroom.« Tony leaned down and kissed her.
»Tony!« Tony's hand stopped running through Ziva's hair when interrupted no other than Goth forensic. »Can you two stop making out in my apartment?«
Ziva hesitated. »For now, I think yes.«
Abbs moaned and headed back to the bathroom and as she left, they shared another kiss.
Doorbell rang – for the third time this evening.
»Gibbs!«
»Abbs,« Gibbs smiled at her and gave her present that would make her the happiest person in the world.
»Yum,« Abby moaned as she took a sip of Caf-POW!
»McPresent arrived,« Tony muttered when Abby jumped of the couch and went to open the door.
»McGee!« she screamed, »You're late! It's 1130!«
»Sorry, Abby, Sarah did not let me go…« McGoo apologized. Abby's face went dark.
»Sarah?«
McGee noticed her dissatisfaction and quickly corrected. »Um… My, uh, sister.«
»Aah,« Abby got happier and placed herself in McGee's lap. Gibbs seemed he didn't even notice breaking the rule in front of his eyes. Tony and Ziva didn't even share a look, not risking if he would.
Time passed and group went to Abby's balcony to watch Washington D.C.'s fireworks.
Abby held McGee and Gibbs' hand tightly, Tony held Ziva's in the way Gibbs couldn't see.
»Ten,« Abby screamed, »Nine! Eight! Seven! Six! Five! Four! Three! Two! One! Happy New Year!«
City in front of their eyes exploded. Abby hugged McGee and Gibbs tightly, screaming her best wishes.
Tony took Ziva's face into his hands and held her face close to his.
»Happy New Year.« He pressed his lips to hers. Ziva returned the kiss and bit his lip. Tony answered with pressing his body to hers even more tightly and buried his hand to her hair. She wrapped her arms around his neck.
Abby, Gibbs and McGoo turned around to wish Ziva and Tony Happy New Year. Gibbs' face stoned, McGee's went surprised, Abby's happily. She noticed Gibbs already opening his mouth, no doubt wanted to remind on rule Number 12, and stopped him.
»Gibbs,« she whispered, »Leave them alone, for God's sake!«
»Abbs! They are making out in your flat!«
»Oh, yeah, Gibbs, let's pretend that you didn't know they're in love!« Abby argued. Gibbs frowned.
»And, besides,« Abby continued, »Who argued to you and Jenny?« That kept Gibbs' mouth shut.
Minutes passed, but Tony and Ziva did not stop. Finally McGoo lost his mind.
»Hey, would you mind stop kissing and making out? We can't leave if you're standing on our way to living room!« That made Tony and Ziva separate and blinked surprised.
»Whoops,« Ziva breathed, »Gibbs, you need to-«
»Yeah, yeah, just move,« Gibbs said impatiently. Tony and Ziva stepped out of the way and McGee, Abby and Gibbs disappeared through the balcony door.
»Happy New Year to you,« Ziva muttered and kissed him again.