NCIS: Origins season 2 episode 7 recap: Cliff Wheeler faces personal and professional turmoil

NCIS: Origins season 2 continues to shine a light on the complexities of Navy NCIS agent Leroy Jethro Gibbs' early career. NCIS: Origins season 2 episode 7, titled, Crazy Little Thing Called Love, first aired on December 2, 2025, following a brief break due to the Thanksgiving holiday.

The show depicts Gibbs and his ragged squad of NIS agents' struggles with murder investigations and personal concerns in the early years of their careers. One of Cliff Wheeler's most profound emotional developments begins this episode.

Disclaimer: The following article contains spoilers from NCIS: Origins season 2 episode 7. Reader’s discretion is required.

This episode explores Cliff Wheeler's personal life, including loneliness, a hidden affair, and a convoluted Marine murder investigation. A blackout adds creepy ambiance to the investigative narrative, which explores the protagonists' emotional and psychological issues.

The episode explores Wheeler’s vulnerabilities, which have been hinted at but never fully explored until now. From his strained relationship with his wife to his secret relationship with Noah Oakley, Wheeler's life is about to spiral in an unexpected direction.

Cliff faces personal and professional turmoil while investigating the murder of a Marine. As the case unravels, so do the secrets of those around him, forcing him to confront his own hidden truths.

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The discovery of Natasha’s murder in NCIS: Origins season 2 episode 7

A detailed recap of NCIS: Origins season 2 episode 7 (Image via CBS)

The episode begins with the discovery of Natasha’s body, which was originally believed to have been the victim of a cougar attack. However, three stab wounds on her body indicate foul play. The team's investigation leads them to uncover Natasha’s recent involvement in a top-secret mission, which adds further complexity to the case.

While the "Cougar Crazies" – a group of animal rights activists – initially complicate matters with their protests, the team uncovers a crucial piece of evidence: a ceremonial coin belonging to Lt. Col. Casey Montgomery, a high-ranking officer. This discovery opens a new line of questioning, revealing that Natasha had been in contact with him just before her death.

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Cliff Wheeler's personal struggles

A detailed recap of NCIS: Origins season 2 episode 7 (Image via CBS)

Wheeler's personal life unravels during the probe. The episode explores his emotions and his strained marriage to Shelly, who is poised to divorce him. The revelation that his wife is aware of his romance with FBI Detective Noah Oakley deepens Wheeler's inner turmoil.

He faces challenges at work and in the military, notably during a time when homosexuality was stigmatized and might lead to dismissal under the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy.

His difficult job adds to Wheeler's loneliness. From his agents requesting his approval on cases to his personal issues with Shelly, he is overwhelmed. Despite his professional obligations, Wheeler is clearly struggling with his emotions and seeking solace in his secret affair with Oakley.

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The tension between Lala and Vera

A detailed recap of NCIS: Origins season 2 episode 7 (Image via CBS)

Meanwhile, tensions arise between Lala and Vera. Vera confesses that she applied for a joint task force position in Washington, D.C., a revelation that catches Lala off guard. Lala, feeling betrayed and left out, struggles with the news. She feels that Vera should have confided in her earlier, and their friendship begins to deteriorate.

However, by the end of the episode, the two manage to reconcile, with Lala eventually offering Vera a gift basket as a gesture of apology.

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Wheeler’s dilemma regarding Lt. Colonel Montgomery

The crew discovers that Lt. Colonel Montgomery last saw Natasha alive, changing the investigation. Montgomery says he picked her up for her top-secret operation and left her off at home.

The night takes a turn when Montgomery is seen with a man in a motel, suggesting his s*xuality could be used as blackmail. Wheeler, who hides his sexuality, must decide. If he reveals Montgomery's secret, the Colonel could lose his post and pension, which would be heartbreaking.

Mary Jo, who has become a confidante for Wheeler, intervenes and urges him not to report Montgomery. She knows about Wheeler’s affair and understands the emotional toll of hiding one's truth. After an emotional confrontation with Mary Jo, Wheeler ultimately decides not to report Montgomery.

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The arrest of Natasha’s killer

The crew discovers Natasha's murder at the investigation's peak. They find the man who was with Natasha the night she died. He killed Natasha in rage after she rejected his advances. A pen he gave Randy earlier in the episode is the key to his identity. This pen, a "weather pen," is crucial to catching the killer.

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Wheeler finds comfort in Mary Jo

After the events of the day, Wheeler remains upset by the end of the episode, but his friendship with Mary Jo helps alleviate his feelings. He apologizes for his earlier rage and recognizes that she is his true support system.

Wheeler also suggests Noah for the job that Vera had applied for. This is the first step he takes toward admitting that he likes Noah. In the meantime, Lala and Vera make up, and the team continues to work together, even though everyone is dealing with their own problems.

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New episodes of NCIS: Origins season 2 are available to watch on CBS and streaming on Paramount+.