Chapter 1: Lanie


(Takes place on the same day Castle proposes)

Beckett sat on the cold metal table in the ME's office like she had done countless times before. She would miss doing this. Sure there was always texting, phone calls, and e-mail but it wouldn't be the same as actually showing up.

"Hey," Beckett said when Lanie entered the room.

"Geeze girl, I hate it when you do that." Beckett only smiled. "Okay you're glowing again, why are glowing? Is sex with Castle really that good?"

Beckett blushed and jumped off the table, "It's mind blowing but that's not why I'm here." Beckett turned serious, "Castle proposed."

Lanie's eyes widened. "He what? What did you say?"

Beckett smiled, "I said yes."

"Well of course you said yes, you two have been chasing after each other for four years and then a year of dating. I don't see a ring, he can't be that cheap."

Beckett reached for the chain under her shirt. She then took off the engagement ring where it was side by side with her mothers'. She then placed it on her left ring finger.

Now that Lanie could see it with her own eyes she could no longer hold back her excitement.

"Oh my god Kate, you're engaged! So how does it feel?"

"I don't know surreal, it still hasn't sunk in yet."

"And what did he say about the job? I'm guessing you did tell him right?"

"I did and he's willing to work things out."

"And you're okay with that, doing the whole long distance thing?"

Beckett shook her head and smiled. "He drives me crazy sometimes but I love him Lanie and I can't imagine my life without him," she said using the same words Castle had used an hour ago.

Lanie smiled at Kate and hugged her best friend. "I'm happy for you girl."

"Thanks."


END