Chapter 25 Graduate

I don't own Castle

Its now the beginning of June and it has been an incredible six months for the Castles…Always incredible. Since the start of the new year many things have happened, of course there have been many ups and downs but that's what life is all about. The twin baby girls are growing fast to toddlers and are now an extraordinary ten months old. They have grown considerably in size and weight in the past four months alone. Kate and Castle have gotten a good sense of their daughter's personalities over time, although identical the twins are very different in their own unique way. Iris Lanie is a little more reserved, quieter, and a little more serious (for a baby) much like Kate, while the twin Serena Johanna is more energetic, louder, and adventurous like Richard. The twins take away from their parents but remain really similar in many other ways. Both twins like to crawl to places, play games, mimic movements from mom and dad, eat, and communicate to everyone in their own special way. It is also clear that the twins love to spend time and receive attention with everyone in the family. But with each passing day both Kate and Castle wait with much anticipation for the two girls to say their first words and take their first steps. They hope to hear and see these milestones in the coming weeks or months. The girls are growing up so fast.

The Castles oldest boy, Kevin Esposito, is growing up just as fast as his sisters, and recently turned four years old. He is continuing on in the "magic years' and Kate and Castle are trying to hold on to every second of their growing son. The little guy continues to impress his parents and older sister at his imagination with stories and toys. On top of that he is very energetic and talkative with with the neighbor's kids, Sarah Grace, and of course family and extended family. Essentially he is very talkative to everyone he meets. He has gotten better at hand eye coordination, and better at other skills like drawing and a little bit of basic writing Kate has taught him. Although he is growing up really fast, he still likes to ask many "why" questions. Like the twins, Kate and Castle are excited to see their son grow and can't wait to teach him how to read, properly write, and ride a tricycle. Time just seems to fly by.

Outside of the Castle family, the Ryans are preparing for their new arrival. Neither Ryan or Jenny wanted to know the gender of their new baby until the birth. Jenny is very pregnant at 9 months and the due date is fast approaching. Sarah Grace is extremely excited for a little sibling and is extremely hopeful that the new baby will be a little sister for her. She likes to tell her best friend Kevin Esposito Castle just how excited and hopeful she is for the new arrival to her family. But Kevin Ryan being Kevin Ryan is worried about his financial ability to support his family. Jenny isn't worried at all and is rather content with what they have. They have each other and they have a beautiful daughter and a little one on his or her way, what more do they need? Her reassurance and gentleness is quick to calm Ryan down from worry. The Ryans family life is going very well even though Kevin Ryan wants to worry so much.

The Espositos have been doing extremely well in the new year and they are now thinking about moving to a bigger place to have a little more space. Although they have been married for a while there is nothing but progress between them. Everyone at the precinct can see how happy Esposito and Lanie are together. Marriage needs trust, and through all the things that have happened to them they trust each other with everything and anything. They have matured greatly over time and ended up falling in love with each other all over again, and then ended up being happily married. Life may have its downs but when its going up, life is sure sweet.

Richard & Katherine Castle Residence, Bronxville, NY

Another early morning in the beautiful state of New York and another calm and quiet morning in the peaceful neighborhood of Bronxville. But today is far from an ordinary day in the Castle household because today is the day that Alexis finally graduates from college. She took a little longer than expected but Kate and especially Castle didn't mind her taking that much time. Alexis being around the family has been great even though she didn't have to spend that much time with them. Even when she was around a lot she was still able to experience many things as an individual away from the family. But through it all, she always managed to make time for her little brother and baby sisters. Now with this chapter in her life done she is off to start a new one, and her proud father and mother (step) and will back her all the way.

Kate stood in front of the large mirror that hung over the double sink in the master bathroom, finishing getting ready for the partial day at work. She wore a black women's business blazer, matching black business pants, and white women's long sleeve button up collared business shirt with the top two buttons unbuttoned. She just finished her make up so now she is fixing her long elegantly wavy hair in the mirror. She smiled as she ran a hand through her smooth hair while she thought about Alexis' graduation taking place later in the afternoon. She's really excited to see her step-daughter graduate college and couldn't wait to get off work to see her walk. Even though Alexis isn't her biological daughter, she sometimes feel like Alexis is because of everything they have shared and done together. Also, Castle would often consult her on what was happening with Alexis, so it gave her an insight of what was happening between the two. Even before she and Castle were married, she felt a strong bond with Alexis, and Alexis even calls her "mom" which adds to the motherly bonding feeling she feels toward her. Kate was brought back to reality when she suddenly heard a loud crash and laughter coming from the kitchen. She didn't flinch or turn around, but simply smiled and shook her head. Once she finished fixing her hair she turned and left the master bathroom.

Kate walked toward bright kitchen and heard the sound of cartoons playing on the TV. Once she entered the kitchen she gasped when she saw her husband and son with an upside down cereal bowl on the table with milk slowly dripping onto the rug under the table. She saw that both Castle and Kevin Esposito were still in their pajamas, Castle in a grey short sleeve shirt and black sweats, while Kevin Esposito wore light blue matching pajamas. Castle and Kevin Esposito quickly looked at Kate then slowly pointed to one another with blank and innocent stares. Castle said innocently, "Our son did it."

Kevin Esposito looked at his dad then at his mom, "No, daddy did it." He said with a growing smile on his face.

Kate couldn't help but smile as she placed her hands on her hips then leaned to one side, "I don't know who did it, but you're both cleaning it up."

Castle sighed, "Aw."

Kevin Esposito hopped off the chair, "Okie mommy!" He ran to the kitchen sink to try and grab a paper towel, but he was too short to reach it. Castle saw and got up from the table to help his son get a paper towel that was located on the counter next to the sink.

Kate smiled at her two boys then she suddenly felt a nudge against the front of her legs. She looked down and saw Angel rubbing herself against her legs while panting happily. Kate squatted down and petted the dog, "Good morning to you too, Angel." She said as she continued to pet the dog and happily scratching the back of her ears affectionately. She looked into the family room and saw her baby twin daughters playing happily with stuffed animals by the toy box near the coffee table in front of the TV. She stopped petting Angel then stood up and made her way to her daughters with the dog tailing her slowly. She squatted down by her girls and kissed them both on the forehead, "Good morning Serena, good morning Iris. How are my babies doing?" The twins giggled happily and greeted their mother in their own unique baby way. Angel laid down by the twins and watched them diligently while Kate gave the girls attention. Kate laughed, "You two excited to see your big sister graduate today?" She said excitedly in a playful tone to both of them. The girls giggled and waved their toys at her happily. She smiled, "Mommy will be there but she has to go work for a bit but she will be back okay?" The girls giggled and continued to smile. Kate leaned forward and kissed each of them on the head.

Castle just finished cleaning the table when he called out to Kate, "Hey honey, want any breakfast?" Kevin Esposito returned back to the table with a glass of milk his dad just poured for him a moment ago. He turned in his seat so he could watch cartoons from the table.

Kate kissed her daughters again then stood up and walked to her husband by the table, "No, I'm okay but thanks."

Castle smiled, "You sure?"

Kate got to his side and wrapped an arm around him and whispered with a smile, "Our little workout in bed this morning made me get a late start. I'm already going to be late for work."

Castle chuckled, "You didn't seem to mind this morning."

Kate smiled and shook her head, "I just hope I didn't make too much noise."

Castle laughed causing Kevin Esposito to look at his parents with a confused look. Castle chuckled, "I'm sure you're fine."

Kate smiled then slowly brought her husband into a kiss with her free hand. After a moment they broke the kiss and Kate whispered, "Still totally worth it." She kissed him again then checked her watch, "I got to go babe. I'll be back by 11 so we can head out to the graduation together."

Castle smiled, "Sounds good." He pointed to the counter behind him, "But, before you go. I made you nice hot coffee in your favorite thermos on the counter by the coffee maker."

Kate smiled happily, "Thanks, babe." She kissed him again then quickly went to the counter to grab her coffee.

Kevin Esposito cocked his head to the side, "Where is mommy going?"

Castle sat down on the seat next to his son, "She's going to work, big guy."

Kevin Esposito looked confused, "But, I thought we were going to see Lexis today."

Kate got her coffee thermos then made her way back to her son, "Oh we are, honey. Mommy just has to work for a little bit, but I'll be back." Kevin Esposito's shoulders slumped as he fiddled with his cup. Kate ran hand over her son's hair, "Don't worry, honey. I'll be back, so all of us can go see Alexis. I just have to go work for a bit." She squatted down next to him, "I'll be back."

"Okay, mommy." Kevin Esposito smiled. Kate kissed her son on the cheek. She then went to go kiss her daughters on the forehead before she left for work.

As Kate was about to leave the family room and kitchen, she called to her husband, "Rick, can you dress Kevin Esposito and the twins before we go?"

Castle chuckled as she rubbed his son's back, "I'm sure I can manage it."

Kate shook her head and smiled, "And…make sure the kids don't watch cartoons all morning, so we have enough time to dress them."

Castle laughed, "Honey, I got it."

Kate nodded, "Okay then." She smiled, "I love you."

Castle smiled back, "I love you too."

Kevin Esposito waved happily, "I love you too, mommy!" Kate laughed and waved as she left.

Suddenly Iris Lanie started to cry loudly as she let go of her toy. Serena Johanna suddenly decided that she wanted crawl to the dog. Angel lifted her head and watched the baby crawl to her side and lay down beside her. Angel wagged her tail happily as the baby fiddled with her golden colored fur. Castle chuckled, "I got it, honey!" He looked at his son, "Want to help me calm your baby sister?"

Kevin Esposito smiled, "Yes!" The two got up from the table the moment Kate walked back into the family room.

Kate walked over to Iris and bent over and put her hands on her knees and spoke in a gentle motherly tone, "Honey, I'll be right back okay? Mommy is going to go for a bit okay?" The baby continued to cry.

Castle smiled at his wife, "Kate… you're already late as it is. Let us take care of the little one."

Kate sighed, "Right." She walked over and gave Castle one last brief kiss on the lips then gave her son one last kiss on the cheek. "See you two later. Love you!" She said as she walked out.

Castle smiled, "See ya, honey!"

"Bye, mommy!" Kevin Esposito waved excitedly.

Castle sat down next to Iris Lanie then picked her up and rocked her gently side to side as she cried loudly, "Shh." He shooshed gently. "Its okay, Iris. I'm here, your sister is here, and your brother is here. Mommy will be back later. I promise." He said softly but Iris Lanie continued to cry. Kevin Esposito sat down next to his dad and began to help his dad calm his crying sister.

Once Kate put her heels on she opened the garage then made her way out. She had to cut between the Mercedes and the Ferrari that occupied the two car garage to get to the Chevrolet Traverse parked behind the Ferrari. Once she got outside she was surprised from a certain individual walking up the drive way. "Oh! Martha, I didn't know you were coming this early." Kate said surprised as she unlocked the car.

Martha wore a blue blazer with a white collar and ¾ sleeve, deep V-neck line, over a white blouse, and a blue skirt that went past the knees. She smiled at Kate, "Good morning, darling. Going somewhere?"

Kate stopped in front of her car, "Have to go to work for a bit. But, I'll be back before we leave for the ceremony."

Martha smiled, "Great! Alexis will love you being there." She stepped toward Kate and spoke in a softer tone, "Just between you and me. I think its time that you know…" Kate looked confused. Martha smiled warmly, "Alexis sees you as more of a mother than any of Richard's ex wives." She shook her head, "Goodness that sounds terrible saying it like that. What I mean to say is that Alexis sees you as more of a mother to her than anyone else. More than Meredith, her biological mother..." She laughed, "Even more than me. There's a reason she calls you 'mom'."

Kate didn't know what to say because this came out of nowhere, and didn't quite know how to respond, "Not that I'm not thankful for what you just said, Martha. But where is this coming from?"

Martha held a warm smile, "I just think you should know how she really feels about you. She may or may not tell you the in depth reasoning behind it, but I think you should know how highly she feels about you."

Kate smiled, "Thank you, Martha. But, Alexis always had a mother figure with you…"

"I'm her grandmother and I have a different kind of bond with her. You are more like a mother to her because even before you married my son, you have helped her, spent time with her, made her laugh, taught her many things, and took care of her and her father." She laughed, "That's a big one." Kate smiled at the statement. Martha continued and pointed to her firmly but with a smile, "But most importantly. She was able to relate to you and seek guidance from you. Like a proper mother she never had as a child." She smiled, "I hope I'm making sense." She waved her hands, "Goodness, I didn't mean to put you on the spot like this. Its just…"

Kate nodded, "Its fine, Martha. Thank you. This means a lot. It really does."

Martha waved her hands, "I didn't mean to keep you, darling. I'll see you when you get back." She turned and walked toward the open garage.

Kate smiled as she got into the car and started the engine. She didn't know why Martha brought that up but she was glad that she did. It made her happy to know the main reason why Alexis calls her mom. Kate started to back the car out of the driveway to get to work…

12th Precinct, New York City, NY

Kate walked into the precinct as usual with her coffee thermos in one hand and her black work folder in the other. She saw Esposito and Ryan sitting at their respective desks talking to one another with a stack of papers and folders occupying both their desks. Ryan wore a grey suit, white dress shirt, and dark blue tie, and Esposito wore a black polo shirt tucked into dark blue jeans with his badge on a chain around his neck. Ryan spotted Kate first, he straightened in his chair and smiled warmly, "Hey, Captain Castle."

Esposito rotated his office chair so he could face her and nodded, "Yo." He said casually.

Kate stopped next to the white board and smiled at her detectives and friends curiously, "Hey. Anything new?"

Ryan shrugged, "Nah, just talking and doing some paper work." He said with a smile.

Kate chuckled, "Looks more like procrastinating to me."

Esposito leaned back in his chair, "Well, we're on our break."

Kate smiled and shook her head, "How many breaks have you taken so far on those forms?" She saw Ryan and Esposito quietly look at each other. Kate chuckled, "I thought so." She started to walk to her office when Ryan spoke up.

"Hey, isn't Alexis graduating college today?" Ryan asked in an excited tone.

Kate stopped and faced the dynamic duo, "Yeah she is. Her ceremony is this afternoon."

Esposito looked at her curiously, "Aren't you going?"

Kate nodded, "Yeah I am. But I decided that its best to put in a partial day at work before taking off for the ceremony."

Ryan smiled, "In that case…" He quickly opened a drawer in his desk and pulled out a small silver wrapped package and envelope. He stood up and walked over to Kate, "This is for her. From the Ryans."

Kate tucked her folder under the pit of her arm then graciously took the present from Ryan with a smile, "Thanks, Ryan. Alexis will appreciate this."

Ryan nodded then returned to his seat. Esposito put his cell phone on his desk then grabbed a sealed envelope from his desk, "This is from me and Lanie. But she has another thing for her. Lanie said she'll be up in a second." He stood up and handed it to Kate.

Kate smiled, "Alexis will love this. But you guys didn't have to do this."

Ryan nodded, "Yeah, we do."

Esposito nodded, "Alexis is family to us too. Just like Castle and just like you." He said with a warm smile.

Suddenly Lanie came rushing into the room with a small wrapped box and a white envelope. She wore a bright red ¾ sleeve Cardigan Sweater, blue jeans, and black dress shows. She smiled, "Javie told me that you just got here." She carefully handed Kate the box, "This is for Alexis." She smiled, "Tell her we all say congratulations."

Kate smiled, "Thanks, guys. Alexis will really love this."

Esposito chuckled, "I guess we can throw Alexis a party one day."

"Actually, Rick is setting up a surprise party for her next weekend. You're all allowed to come if you want." Kate said happily. Ryan, Esposito, and Lanie all shared happy glances.

Richard & Katherine Castle Residence, Bronxville, NY

Castle and Martha sat comfortably on the couch in the family room while they both happily watched over the kids sitting on the floor in front of them. Kevin Esposito cuddled with his stuffed animal snow leopard while his sisters played with their small stuffed animals next to him as children's cartoons played on the big TV. Angel took it upon herself to lay down on the edge of the carpet of the family room in a way to keep the kids in the room. For a young Golden Retriever, she is not only energetic but very caring to the kids. It made everyone feel good that even the dog can be trusted to take care of the little ones.

Martha shook her head with a bright smile, "I swear. Every time I come by to visit, these kids get bigger and bigger."

Kevin Esposito turned around on the floor, "Am I getting bigger too, Grandma?"

Martha smiled and leaned forward on the couch, "Yes you are. You are growing faster and bigger than your two little sisters." Castle laughed.

Kevin Esposito hugged his stuffed leopard, "Here that, Mr. Leopard? I'm growing." He said excitedly to his toy.

Castle and Martha shared a happy look with each other. Martha leaned over to her son, "The girls are getting pretty big too."

Castle nodded, "Yeah, they are." He chuckled, "Iris and Serena may be twins but they sure are different."

Martha chuckled, "I noticed they act differently, even though they are next to each other everyday." She shrugged, "I think Serena is more like Katherine and Iris is more like you."

Castle looked at her confused, "Really? Nah, we don't think so." He chuckled, "Kate and I say the opposite."

Martha cocked her head to one side as she observed her twin grand daughters for a moment. She nodded, "Huh… I guess we'll see then."

Castle chuckled, "I don't want them to grow up too fast. Soon enough they'll be graduating just like…" He suddenly looked at the clock in realization of the time. It was close to eleven and Kate should be on her way home. Castle jumped up, "Uh oh."

Martha looked confused, "What's wrong, kiddo?"

Castle quickly scooped up his son and the stuffed snow leopard in his arms causing Kevin Esposito to laugh loudly. Castle turned to face his mother, "I need to dress the kids. I promised Kate that the kids won't be down here watching cartoons for too long. I'm supposed to dress them before she gets here." He said quickly. Angel quickly sat up in surprise from the sudden burst of commotion coming from the family.

Martha nodded, "Right, when is she coming home again?"

"She said around eleven." Castle said frantically.

Martha looked at the clock on the wall then looked at the twins, "I'll dress the twins. You dress the big boy."

"Right. Thanks, Mother." Castle said as he rushed out of the family room. He looked at his son, "Don't tell mom, I let you watch cartoons all morning with your sisters, okay?" Kevin Esposito smiled and put a single finger over his lips as he nodded excitedly.

Kate pressed the garage door opener in her car as she pulled into the drive way to park in the usual spot behind the Ferrari. Once she parked the car, she opened the door, grabbed the gifts to Alexis from the 12th Precinct, then stepped out. After closing the car door, she then walked calmly into the garage.

She stepped into the house and called to her family, "Hey, I'm home!" She heard cartoons playing in the family room causing her to cock her head to the side in confusion with a half smile. She could have sworn she told Castle not to have the kids watch cartoons all morning so they had time to get ready. She walked toward the room and saw that it was empty with the TV showing cartoons.

Kate heard Castle call from Kevin Esposito's room, "The kids are almost done getting dressed! Martha is with the twins!" Kate chuckled and shook her head then turned around and placed Alexis' graduation gifts at the center of the dinner table.

She got to the second floor and immediately stopped by Kevin Esposito's room to check up on him. She opened the door and saw her son sitting on the end of his bed in a red and blue striped polo shirt with a white caller, little brown slacks, and white socks. She noticed Castle sitting on a chair next to the bed with a big smile on his face and still dressed in his sleep attire. Kate chuckled, "Did you let the kids watch cartoons all morning?"

Kevin Esposito noticed his mom peeking inside his room. He waved happily, "Hi, mommy!"

Kate smiled, "Hi, sweetie."

Castle shook his head with a smile, "No they didn't. We finished breakfast, cleaned up, spent time with Grandma, then got them dressed." He shrugged, "I just forgot to turn off the TV."

Kate walked into the room, "Uh-huh. Sure." She nodded with a knowing look, "So 'yes', you did let the kids watch cartoons all morning."

Castle put his hands up disarmingly, "No I didn't."

Kate gave a mock serious glare at him then turned her attention to her son, "Kevin, did Daddy let you and your sisters sit in front of the TV all morning?"

Kevin Esposito smiled widely at his mom, "Yup!"

Castle smiled and whispered, "Traitor…"

Kate laughed then kissed her son on the cheek, "That's my boy." She ran her hand through his soft brown hair, "You look very handsome, Kevin."

Kevin Esposito smiled, "Thank you, Mommy!" He opened his arms in a way to signal his mom to pick him up.

Kate happily obliged and picked up her son from his bed with an exaggerated grunt. She smiled, "You're getting heavy. Pretty soon I won't be able to carry you." Kevin Esposito turned and hugged his mom and rested his cheek on her shoulder. Kate kissed her son then spoke up, "Castle, go get dressed so we can get going."

Castle stood up, "I was just about to do that." He smiled, "Mother has the girls."

Kate smiled, "I'll go check on them in a second."

On the couch in the family room, Kate rocked Serena Johanna in her arms next to Martha who rocked Iris Lanie in her arms. Kevin Esposito sat on the floor with his legs crossed as he enjoyed the cartoons playing on the TV. Castle walked into the family room wearing a dark blue suit, white dress shirt underneath, dark silver tie, and nice pair of black dress shoes. Martha smiled at her son, "Goodness darling, you look very handsome and well dressed."

Castle smiled and bowed a little, "Thank you, mother." He chuckled, "Its my daughter's graduation. I have to dress nice."

Kate kissed Serena on the forehead then said, "You look dashing, honey." She said with a warm and loving smile. She hoisted Serena upright and held her under the arm pits then whispered into her daughter's ear, "Doesn't your daddy look nice?" Serena giggled as she waved her hands rapidly.

Kevin Esposito smiled, "You look great, daddy!"

Castle smiled, "Thank you, all. We all look good." He put his hands in his pockets then nodded to the garage, "Now, shall we go? Don't want to be late on Alexis' graduation."

Kevin Esposito jumped up, "I'm ready!"

Kate positioned Serena so she could hold her with one arm so she could use her other hand to turn off the TV with the remote. Martha stood up with Iris in her arms and said, "I can grab the stroller from the closet."

Kate also stood up, "Its okay, Martha. The stroller is still in the trunk of the car."

Castle smiled, "Alright ladies and gentlemen. Lets…" Suddenly Castle's phone rang. He quickly grabbed his phone and answered warmly, "Hello." Kevin Esposito ran toward the door excitedly while Kate and Martha watched Castle curiously.

On the other side of the line is the President of Columbia University, Patrick Hawkins but Castle didn't know that. He spoke on the phone in a rather professional, polite, and yet slightly nervous tone, "Is this Mr. Richard Castle?"

Castle nodded, "Yes it is. Who is that is calling if I may ask?"

Hawkins spoke apologetically, "Sorry to disturb you. I'm sure you want to just relax and enjoy your daughter's graduation." Castle didn't know what to say at that. He felt defensive because he felt someone was watching him. Hawkins continued on the phone, "I'm sorry. I'm Patrick Hawkins, President of Columbia University."

Castle suddenly stood straighter causing his family to look concerned. He nodded, "What can I do for you?"

"This is…rather embarrassing actually. Our commencement speaker was just arrested in the parking lot for embezzlement and fraud." Hawkins took a deep breath, "This is very last minute, and we know all about Alexis because of her standings in this university… and we know your very good reputation as an author and a citizen in New York City…"

Castle spoke up, "You want me to be your commencement speaker?" Kate and Martha shared a confused look.

Hawkins spoke calmly, "In short. Yes. I know we're asking last minute…"

"I'll do it." Castle said without hesitation. This is another opportunity to help Alexis and it is on her big important day. Anything to make this day perfect for her.

"Great! Thank you, Mr. Castle. Please meet me and my staff at the administration building and we will go from there, if you're not here already that is." Hawkins said in relief.

Castle nodded, "I'll be there." He hung up the phone then put it in his pocket.

Kate looked at him curiously, "What's going on, hon?"

Castle chuckled, "You won't believe this…" He paused, "Alexis' school just asked me to be their commencement speaker because their original one was just arrested for embezzlement and fraud."

Martha gasped, "Oh my." Iris started to whimper causing Martha to quickly change her attention to the baby girl. She bounced her gently in her arms, "Its okay, Grandma is here."

Kate cocked her head to the side a little confused, "Wow. Arrested. Not a good thing to happen to Columbia University…"

Castle sighed, "Yeah. I don't even know what to say…"

Kate approached her husband then kissed him on the cheek, "I'm sure you'll figure it out. You are a good talker so I'm sure you can find something to work with." She smiled, "This is great, babe! Alexis will be so surprised and so happy." She said proudly. She bounced on her heels excitedly while carrying Serena, "Now I'm even more excited than before!"

Kevin Esposito called to his parents while he waited by the door to the garage, "Come on! We got to see Lexis!"

Kate kissed her husband on the cheek one last time, "Come on, babe. I'm sure you'll figure something out." She then cuddled with Serena as she walked out of the family room.

Martha smiled at her son as she stopped rocking Iris, "Don't worry, kiddo." She said following Kate out.

Castle sighed to himself, "Oh boy…"

Columbia University, New York City, NY

The massive graduating class filled up the entire quad in front of the tall Alma Mater sculpture and Low Memorial Library, with the equally massive amounts of spectators and families occupying the rear of the graduates on the College Walk path. The podium stood in front of the tall Alma Mater Sculpture while the Faculty, Administrators, Board members, and other important individuals sat on podiums flanking the statue and just in front of the steps to the Low Memorial Library. In front of the podium is a large amount of plants for décor, flags, and banners to celebrate the graduation.

Alexis, in her light blue graduation cap and gown like everyone else, sat next to her friends toward the front of the massive graduating class in front of the podium. The Student Speaker just stepped off the podium and the Commencement Address should start momentarily. A blonde girl next to Alexis leaned toward her and whispered, "The Student Speaker was a joke."

Alexis chuckled silently, "You're telling me. Honestly, I just want this ceremony to end so we can graduate."

Her friend laughed, "Yeah. But this is still pretty exciting."

Alexis smiled, "Never said it wasn't."

Everyone saw President Patrick Hawkins step behind the podium and speak calmly, "Next is our guest Commencement Speaker." There was a slight pause, "I'm proud to present the acclaimed novelist… Richard Castle!" Alexis gasped in surprise at the sound of her father's name while the massive crowd clapped and cheered excitedly. Its clear that there is a large amount of fans of Castle in the graduating class and the spectating crowd.

As the crowd continued to clap, Alexis saw her dad dressed in a nice suit take the podium calmly with a confident smile. She was in complete shock and couldn't believe that her dad is the Commencement speaker for her school. The prestigious Columbia University! Her blonde friend looked at her with a big smile, "Hey, that's your dad!" She covered her mouth, "I love his books."

Alexis smiled proudly and whispered, "That's my dad."

Castle put his hands up to quiet the thundering crowd, "Thank you." The crowd slowly started to get quieter. He smiled and repeated, "Thank you." After a moment the crowd finally fell silent. Castle chuckled on the microphone, "You shouldn't be clapping for me, you should be clapping for yourselves since you finished this long chapter in your life." He said directing his words to the soon to be graduates. The graduating class clapped happily and energetically causing Castle to smile and put his hands up to quiet the crowd again. He laughed, "Give me a moment, then you can all go celebrate. I just hope that my words will find meaning to you all and inspire you to do great things." He smiled, "For those of you who don't know me. I'm Richard Castle, a novelist, an investigator, an aide to the Detectives of the 12th Precinct in this great city… but my most important job and title is a father of four." He scanned the crowd in front of him, "My oldest is among you right now. Her name is Alexis and I'm very, very proud of her." Alexis smiled to herself as her friends looked at her with smiles on their faces. Castle continued, "I just had to get that out of the way since I'm standing here."

Castle paused and took a deep breath, "To this graduating class… Whatever obstacles you face this year, remember that you can get through it. Before you quit, try! Always have the courage to try again because the only way to guarantee failure is to never try at all. Don't let fear of criticism paralyze you and prevent you from doing great things. You only have one life, so try to make the most of it. Today… is your first blank page to your new world. Write a good one. That being said… when writing your own story of your life, don't let anyone else hold the pen. Write your own story and absorb everything you can, Do great things! Dream big things! Do the impossible…" He pointed to the crowd, "Go out and experience… nothing is more expensive than a missed opportunity!" Everyone in the crowd soaked up Castle's words, Alexis smiled happily and even had a tear of joy trickle down her cheek. Castle smiled to the crowd, "Steve Jobs once said that 'The people who are crazy enough to think they can change the world, are the ones who do.'" He nodded and said in a calm and in a charismatic voice, "Now…I invite you…to change the world." Alexis beamed a bright smile full of happiness and pride. The crowd, both graduates and spectators absorbed all his words. Castle smiled, "Congratulations Alexis and congratulations to all graduates." At the last statement the crowd exploded with applause with people cheering excitedly.

In the spectator crowd behind the graduating class, Martha and Kate sat on the chairs while Kevin Esposito sat on Martha's lap and the twins sat in a two seater side by side stroller in front of Kate. Martha spoke above the applause, "Richard, has a way with words."

Kate smiled, "That he does. One of the many reasons why I love him." She saw Kevin Esposito put his hands over his ears with a frown. Kate chuckled, "What's wrong, honey? Too loud?" Kevin Esposito shook his head with his hands still covering his ears. Martha laughed and bounced him on her knees. Kate smiled then focused her attention on her daughters and was surprised what she saw. Her girls were clapping with the crowd. She laughed loudly at the scene.

One after the other, the graduates walked up and shook hands with the faculty, president, and other staff members, then soon enough the graduation ceremony came to a close. Now the graduates excitedly ran back to their friends and loved ones waiting for them in the ocean of people. Alexis was quick to unite with her father at the conclusion of the ceremony. Alexis ran up and hugged her father tightly, "Dad! I can't believe you were the speaker!"

Castle smiled and happily reciprocated the hug tightly, "It's a story for later." He laughed. Tears of joy came down his cheeks, "I'm so proud of you, Alexis. So, so proud."

Alexis held the hug, "Thank you, dad. For everything. For being there." She started to cry tears of joy.

"Always, Alexis. Always."

Alexis let go of her dad with a smile while happy tears came down her cheeks. Castle smiled and wiped the tears away gently with his thumb. Alexis smiled, "Here's to another new chapter."

Castle smiled, "You always wanted to change the world." He placed his hands on her shoulders and gave them a gentle grip, "And it starts right here." Alexis smiled. He gave a warm smile, "Want to go find Gram and mom?" Alexis nodded happily.

As father and daughter walked through the ocean of happy people, Castle had to frequently stop to get his picture taken with people and sign autographs. He also got quite a number of compliments on his speech. For a speech that was literally thought up at the last possible second, he got a pretty good review for it. Eventually they were able to reunite with Martha, Kate, and the kids. Kate immediately snapped a picture of Alexis with a small black digital camera as Alexis rushed to her and hugged her tightly. Martha took hold of the stroller while Kate and Alexis hugged.

Kate smiled as she hugged her step-daughter tightly, "Congratulations, Alexis. I'm so proud of you! Been a long journey."

Alexis beamed happily, "Thank you!" She then spoke quietly into Kate's ear, "Thank you for being a real mother to me, for doing all those small things for me and dad." She paused, "And supporting me…"

Kate released the hug and looked into her eyes with a smile, "You'll always be a daughter to me." She said genuinely.

Martha stepped forward and smiled, "Congratulations, kiddo!"

Alexis turned and hugged her tightly, "Thank you, Gram…" She was about to thank her some more but Martha cut her off.

Martha smiled, "Don't need to thank me anymore, Alexis." She rubbed her back, "You are an incredibly young lady with a bright future to play with." She let go of her, "We just gave you the support you needed, but you did all the hard work yourself."

Alexis smiled, "Thanks, Gram." Suddenly Kevin Esposito charged her causing her to pick him up almost effortlessly.

Kevin Esposito yelled excitedly, "Lexis!" The family laughed.

Alexis smiled, "Hey there big guy!" She chuckled, "You look mighty handsome."

"Yup! Daddy and Mommy told me to look good for you!" Kevin Esposito said happily.

Alexis chuckled, "You certainly do." She heard her little sisters giggle causing her to focus her attention on them. She smiled and carefully squatted down in front of the stroller while still holding her little brother, "How are my perfect little sisters?" The twins time smiled and giggled at the same time.

Kevin Esposito kissed his sister on the cheek, "Congraduations, Lexis!" He said happily. Alexis smiled.

Castle approached Kate and wrapped an around the small of her back, prompting Kate to do the same to him. He smiled as he watched his older daughter interact happily with her siblings and grandmother, "Its perfect. Perfect day."

Kate looked up at her husband, "Nice speech by the way." She said with a smile.

Castle looked at her, "Think so?" He chuckled, "Thought it was a bit rushed."

Kate leaned against him and kissed his cheek, "It was perfect. It motivated me." She said happily, "You have a way with words, you know that?" Castle smiled then they both kissed each other on the lips.

Suddenly a large group of Alexis' graduating friends came by and swarmed her and happily greeted her and the family. Alexis smiled at her friends, "Hey guys!" She looked at Kevin Esposito who had a curious look on his face, "For those of you who don't know, this is my little brother, Kevin Esposito." Alexis' friends all adored him and cooed at him affectionately. Alexis bounced Kevin Esposito in her arms, "Say hi, big guy."

Kevin Esposito waved excitedly, "My sister, graduated." He said proudly causing Alexis' friends to all laugh at the statement.

A dark brown haired girl in cap and gown smiled, "Oh my God! he's so cute!" The other friends nodded in agreement.

Alexis then focused everyone's attention to her baby sisters in the stroller, "And these two little ones, are twins. Iris Lanie and Serena Johanna."

The group of friends quickly crowded the stroller and cooed, admired, and adored the beautiful little baby girls. The twins however didn't take the sudden crowd very well, and started to cry gently. One of Alexis' guy friends, a tall brown haired individual, turned and faced Alexis, "Sorry, Alexis. We didn't mean to."

Alexis still carried her little brother in her arms and smiled at her friends, "its okay. They're still shy when it comes to big crowds."

Martha was quick to happily care for the little girls while the group gave the stroller some space. Kate was about to help Martha when Castle stopped her by saying, "I got it." He said happily.

Kate smiled then focused her attention to her graduate, "Alexis! Can we get pictures of all of you and us?"

Alexis turned and smiled, "Sure, mom."

Before Kate took a picture she said, "By the way. Your friends in the 12th Precinct got you a number of presents for you." She then took the picture. The next few hours were all picture taking with family, friends, and both… and even the occasional autograph for Castle to sign. But nonetheless it's a great day…

Richard & Katherine Castle Residence, Bronxville, NY

Its late in the evening in the Castle household and it's the end of a very eventful day. Martha went to relax in the guest room since she is staying for a few days to throw Alexis a surprise party. The twins were put to bed and were surprisingly quiet in the evening, probably because of all the things going on through out the day. Kevin Esposito was all pooped out after the energetic gathering with Alexis and her friends, and went to sleep pretty early after Castle read him a bed time story.

Kate relaxed quietly on the couch with her back leaning against the arm rest while she read a book. She still wore the same clothes as before but her black blazer was draped neatly over a couch cushion. She heard her husband walking down the stairs and heard him talking on the phone, "No, Alexis I'll be fine, I got a thousand cable channels, got my Xbox..." She saw him walk in with Alexis' gold tassel in one hand and the phone against his ear in the other. Castle stopped and smiled as he spoke on the phone, "And I got Kate. Now, you have fun! I will not worry about you till lunch time tomorrow." He chuckled as he walked over to the coffee table at the center of the family room, "I love you too. Yes, I'll tell her too." He hung up and gently placed the tassel at the center of the coffee table.

Kate closed her book and smiled, "What did she say?" Knowing it was Alexis.

Castle smiled at his wife, "She says she loves you." Kate smiled happily. Although, Alexis didn't directly say it to her, those words still meant a lot. It's the first time she ever heard it from her step-daughter. Castle smiled, "She thinks very highly of you. Hope you know that and I hope you know she looks up to you."

Kate smiled, "I know, honey." She saw his face cringe. She looked confused, "What?"

"I got…the weirdest sense of déjà vu."

Kate laughed, "From what?"

Castle shook his head, "I don't know! I swear I've walked this line before."

Kate laughed as she kicked her feet off the couch and sat up straight and opened her arms, "Come here." She whispered.

Castle obliged and sat down next to his wife. They cuddled for a quiet moment then shared a lasting kiss. Castle broke the kiss and smiled, "Never boring."

Kate giggled, "Never."

Castle looked at the table where the 12th Precinct gifts were, "We should probably hide those for Alexis' surprise party…"

Kate interrupted him, "Babe, worry about the party later." She said seductively as she kissed his lips again.

Sorry it took a while to post. Went snowboarding last week!

Hope you enjoyed.

HAPPY NEW YEAR

Boom. Alexis graduated. Wheew

About Alexis calling Kate, "Mom" and saying "I love you." I just thought its kind of tender. Friend of mine who has a step mom says she loves her all the time and calls her mom. So I Just think its kind of nice to cross that bridge.

From what I've seen (not to piss any of you off), Meredith is pretty annoying. From what I've seen and also read is that Alexis prefers little exposure from her biological mother as possible. Also Meredith seems to be a terrible influence on her… PS She'll be featured some day in a chapter. Herherherher

Martha is a good role model for Alexis, a mother figure, she spends time with her, and supports her, but I always felt (in my mind at least) that Kate unknowingly helped and influenced Alexis in a positive way even before marrying Castle. Alexis does hold Kate in high regard