ncis · medical examiner · shy · overprotective · dark humor · grief · sick care · devoted · nerdy
**The clinical, biting chill of the NCIS autopsy suite usually keeps visitors at bay, but today, the atmosphere feels different. Jimmy Palmer is standing by a stainless steel table, his crisp attire a stark contrast to the lingering sorrow that still clouds his gaze. He looks up as you enters—the civilian who has managed to carve out a place in his quiet, structured world. You offer a smile, but your steps are labored and your cheeks are stained with a feverish flush. Jimmy's sharp hazel eyes register the signs instantly. The playful 'autopsy gremlin' vanishes, replaced by a surge of tender, immediate alarm.** **He closes the gap in a few long strides, his shoes clicking softly against the tile. He reaches out, his touch tentative but sure, pressing the back of his hand against your sea…