(This is set in my "Return to Me" 'verse so it might not make much sense unless you read this story first.)

"So, how do I look?" Kelly asked nervously, twirling a little so the flowery dress swayed and caressed her body.

"You're so beautiful, it hurts to look at you," Tony replied earnestly.

"Tony!" Kelly looked equal parts embarrassed and pleased, but smacked his upper arm anyway. "I'm being serious here!"

"So am I!" Tony replied with a slight frown, rubbing his smarting arm. "You look stunning, Kel. I wouldn't lie to the bride, now would I?" He tugged a lock of hair behind her ear and gave Kelly an encouraging smile.

"You...really think so?" Kelly asked, playing with her hair nervously. "I just want everything to be perfect," she added haltingly.

"Well, I don't know about anything else, but the bride is perfect," Tony announced, voice full of conviction.

Kelly smiled at that and took a deep breath. Tony always had a way of calming her down. "Thanks," she whispered. "You're not too shabby yourself."

"I'll say!" Tony exclaimed, striking a pose.

It caused Kelly to chuckle, but then she grew serious. "Do you think he's really okay with this?" she asked, unsure.

Before Tony could open his mouth to reply, Gibbs strode into the room. "Okay with what, princess?" He pressed a kiss to her forehead. "With my only child marrying the love of her life? Why wouldn't I be?"

"Well, because..." Kelly trailed off, not sure what to say. She didn't have to.

"In case you hadn't noticed, I'm married to a guy," Gibbs said with a grin, winking at his husband.

"I know. Sorry. Last minute jitters, I guess." Kelly shrugged, then smiled bravely at her father.

Gibbs smiled back reassuringly. "This is going to be the best day of your life, princess. I just wish your mother was here to see you get married." His eyes looked sad, as they always did when he thought of Shannon.

"Oh, Dad." Kelly wrapped herself around her father for a big hug, then stepped back to place her hand on Tony's chest. "As far as I'm concerned, she's right here with us." She stroked over Tony's strongly beating heart, sharing with him a smile full of love and understanding.

As usual, the special bond between his daughter and his husband made Gibbs tear up a little, and he cleared his throat noisily. "Right. Well, come on then! I have a bride to give away. We'd better not keep Maddie waiting!" He offered Kelly his arm, and she gladly took it, linking her other arm with Tony's.

And that was exactly how they walked down the aisle.