Chapter 26 Heated
I don't own Castle
Another wonderful month has gone by and everything is just a swinging good time. Although Alexis is fresh out of college, she took an instant look into her next step on either finding a job or getting into grad school. With her experience with a variety of internships and jobs, and the people she knows, she can land any job or grad school she desired. The only problem she is facing is what to do next in her life. She has so many goals in life and so many things she aspires to be; she doesn't know where to start. But nonetheless, her parents are extremely proud of her, and Castle is just happy that Alexis is sticking around a little longer while she figures out what to do. Plus, the kids love her, so its good for her and them that she sticks around for a bit. Both Castle and Kate would emphasize that its okay for her to take time before she advances in life. They would say that she needs to enjoy life too or else there would be a lot of regret in the future. Alexis understood and did her best to follow their advice.
Within the month of Alexis graduating college, the Castles experienced another baby milestone for the twins. Both Iris Lanie and Serena Johanna have finally learned how to walk. While Castle and Kate excitedly taught the girls how to walk one at a time, Alexis video taped and took pictures of the whole experience for memories, and Kevin Esposito sat by his parents and cheered on his sisters as the big brother cheerleader. It was one great a memory watching the little girls taking their first steps. It was so funny and clumsy watching the girls attempt to walk, but at the same time it was so adorable. Although Serena took a little longer to learn how to walk than her twin sister, Serena became even more adventurous than before since learning. She seems to want to get up and walk all the time, which keeps mom, dad, and even Kevin Esposito and Angel on their toes to make sure she doesn't hurt herself. Iris Lanie on the other hand only walks when she has to, like when she has to get a toy from the box or when she plays with the dog. So she doesn't need AS much supervision as Serena, but Angel, the young Golden Retriever, has again proven to be excellent at keeping a constant watchful eye over the kids just in case mom and dad are distracted. The twin girls aren't the best walkers yet so they still need some support and supervision when they walk.
The Castles eldest boy, Kevin Esposito, continues to grow and impress his parents with each passing day. Time is going so fast that Kate and Castle will have to soon discuss the topic of sending their big boy to preschool or not. Things just seem to be happening so fast that its almost hard to believe how big the kids all have gotten.
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Richard & Katherine Castle Residence, Bronxville, NY
The early morning sun beamed its warmth into the peaceful master bedroom of the Castle house like it always did during the summer. Its looking like its going to be just another quiet and peaceful Saturday in the house. The warm morning sun did little to bother Kate sleeping comfortably alone in her big bed. She slept in her usual silver, knee length, V-neck, full slip, and black flower pattern night gown with the bed sheets messily covering only the lower half of her body. She was so deep in sleep that the sun light shining on her didn't seem to bother her slumber. But the feeling of someone sitting on the edge of her side of the bed caused her to finally stir in her sleep.
Kate hummed softly as she slowly opened her eyes and saw the love of her life smiling warmly at her. "Hey…" She said tiredly with a smile.
Castle wore his sleep wear which is a grey shirt and black sweats. He smiled, "Hey…" He said warmly. "You got in late last night. The kids and I missed you." He said warmly.
Kate smiled, "Had to close up the case with the boys last night." She started to gently grab his shirt.
"You catch the killer?" Castle said intrigued.
"Of course we did, babe." Kate said as she tugged lazily on his shirt. "Come here." She whispered.
Castle leaned down and kissed her gently. Kate then cupped his face and deepened the kiss even further which Castle happily reciprocated. After a long kiss, Castle pulled away slowly, "Good morning." He said softly with a smile.
Kate giggled, "Good morning, handsome." Castle sat back up and smiled at his wife. Kate propped herself up on one elbow and wrapped her other arm around Castle. She hummed, "So how was your day yesterday?"
Castle chuckled, "I was being the world's greatest dad the world has ever seen while you and Alexis were out." Kate laughed at his statement. Castle shrugged, "I turned in my latest chapter a few days ago, so I turned to procrastination on the current one like I usually do. Also there's no cases from the P.I. firm that needs my attention…so I was 100% Dad mode yesterday." He shrugged again, "You know. Same old same old."
Kate laughed, "Have fun?"
Castle smiled, "Oh yeah! We always have fun." He said happily. He heard Kate chuckle causing him to ask, "What's so funny?"
Kate shook her head with a big smile, "Its nothing…" She couldn't stop laughing to herself.
Castle nodded, "Uh-huh."
Kate rubbed his back affectionately, "its just you. This. Us." She said in between laughing.
"You lost me." Castle said with a smile.
Kate composed herself, "When you said 'same old same old' it got me thinking." She let out a small laugh, "I remember before I met you, my same old same old was wake up, go to work, solve cases, get pestered by the boys, and go home. A pretty average routine of sameness."
Castle smiled, "Uh. Catching murderers and solving cases is pretty exciting…"
Kate smiled as she continued to rub his back, "let me finish, babe." She chuckled, "When you started coming by the precinct, everything became exciting and new, and everyday was an adventure. When I met you, my life became extraordinary…" She said partially quoting her vow from the wedding that seemed so long ago yet not that distant. She smiled up at him, "Then eventually we got married…and together we embraced each adventurous day." She laughed, "Now that we have kids… Everything is completely new, and the excitement grows and grows with each passing day. Its funny how this is same old same old."
Castle didn't know what to say. He smiled, "Wow…I just wanted to greet you good morning and kiss you… Didn't expect that."
Kate smiled, "Babe, you should've known by now that I'm a woman with many surprises."
"That you do." Castle chuckled. "I still don't know how to actually respond to that."
"That's the first." Kate replied with a chuckle. She spoke softly, "I love you, Rick."
"I love you too." Castle replied instantly. He leaned down and kissed her on the lips gently. After a moment he broke the kiss and smiled, "So did you plan this or was this on the spot?"
Kate didn't answer and just continued to rub his back as she hummed, "What's the plan today since I have the day off."
Castle smiled, "We're going to the red carpet premier of 'Heat Wave' tonight…"
Kate excitedly interrupted him, "Oh yeah! I almost forgot! I'm so excited!" She couldn't help but bounce with excitement, "Got a new dress for this occasion. Never been to a red carpet screening before, AND its my husband's movie!" She said excitedly.
Castle chuckled, "Yup. So someone is coming by to pick us up this afternoon to attend the Red Carpet premier at six at the AMC Loews Lincoln Square 13 theater."
Kate brought him in for a soft kiss. She pulled away gently, "Can't wait."
"Even though Natalie Portman is playing as you." Castle said while laughing.
Kate laughed, "Yes Rick. Even though Natalie Portman is playing as 'me'." She guided her hand across his shoulders, "Are the kids up?" She said changing the subject.
Castle nodded, "They're all up. In fact, I also came up here to tell you that I made breakfast."
"Oh babe, did you…"
Castle interrupted her, "Yeah I blocked off the bottom of the stairs with the baby gate." He smiled, "Alexis is down stairs too, she's keeping an eye on them with Angel." Kate smiled. Castle leaned down and kissed her gently, "Come on. If you hurry up the food will still be warm by the time you get down." With that Castle stood up and left the room with a smile.
Kate kept herself propped up on her elbow as she smiled and watched her husband walk out of the room.
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In the kitchen, the table was already set with pancakes for Castle, Kate, Alexis, and Kevin Esposito while the twins got special oatmeal. When Castle walked into the family room he saw Angel laying on her side on the floor in front of Kevin Esposito and Iris Lanie watching the morning cartoons on the TV. Kevin Esposito wore his favorite light blue sail boat pajamas, and Iris Lanie wore her pink onesie. Castle smiled then looked at the kitchen table and saw Alexis with Serena Johanna on her lap feeding her little sister the oatmeal with a little spoon. He saw the empty highchair next to Alexis at the end of the table. He laughed, "Serena didn't want to sit still in the highchair?"
Alexis looked up at her dad and smiled, "Not even remotely." She still wore her pajamas which consisted of a plain blue short sleeve and red sweats, and Serena wore her typical sky blue onesie.
Castle turned back to Iris Lanie and Kevin Esposito, "Time to eat." He said with a warm smile. He then walked over and picked up Iris Lanie.
Kevin Esposito stood up and asked curiously, "Where's mommy?"
"She's coming, buddy." Castle replied warmly. He walked over to the head of the table and put Iris down in the second highchair next to his seat. He then moved her oatmeal bowl and spoon from the table to her highchair table top so she can feed herself. Technically both the 11-month old girls can feed themselves, but it always turns out messy and chaotic. So in order to occasionally mitigate the mess, Kate, Castle, Alexis, and Martha will sometimes feed the girls.
"Yay! Pancakes!" Kevin Esposito cheered as he hopped onto his seat opposite of Alexis.
Castle watched with a small smile as Iris started eating her oatmeal with her kiddie spoon. He chuckled, give her five minutes' and she'll be eating the oatmeal with her bare hands. He looked up in thought not being able to remember if it was Serena who always wanted to eat with her hands or Iris. Its already hard to distinguish the twins as it is. If it wasn't for the million pairs of onesies Martha made for the twins, everyone would be confused to which girl was witch. Castle snapped back to reality when he saw his son drench his pancakes with syrup. Castle laughed, "Easy on the syrup there buddy. Mom will kill me if you consume that much syrup." Kevin Esposito put the syrup bottle down and smiled in response.
Angel sat down next to Castle's chair and looked up at him with a curious look with her head cocked to the side. Castle nodded, "Oh right, you need your breakfast too." Angel started to pant happily in response.
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Moments later Kate entered the kitchen with her silver and black flower patterned robe tied closed over her matching night gown and her cell in her hand. She smiled, "Good morning." She said cheerfully.
Kevin Esposito swallowed his bite and turned to face his mom, "Good morning, mommy!" He said while waving.
Kate walked over to his son and kissed him on the top of the head, "Good morning, sweetie."
Kevin Esposito pointed to her seat that was next to Castle's, "Mommy, food is ready."
Kate smiled, "I know. I have to greet your sisters first."
Kevin Esposito smiled, "Daddy fed Angel already."
"That's good." She said as she looked over at Castle focusing on Iris feeding herself.
Alexis looked up at Kate, "Morning, Mom." She said while bouncing Serena gently on her lap.
"Good morning, Alexis. Serena not agreeing with the highchair again?" Kate said with a chuckle.
Alexis shook her head, "Sadly no."
Kate chuckled, "She never does." She said as she walked over to her and Serena. She kissed Serena on the cheek, "Good morning, sweetie." She ran a gentle hand over the back of Alexis' shoulders as she walked around her to greet Iris and Castle. Alexis gave a warm smile to Kate in response.
Kate walked over to the head of the table then stood in between Iris' highchair and Castle. She looked at her little girl eating breakfast, "Iris is doing a pretty good job of eating by herself."
Castle nodded, "She is." He chuckled, "But give it a minute and she'll be eating with her hands and food will go everywhere."
Kate laughed, "You sound so cynical all of a sudden." She leaned down and kissed her daughter on the head, "Good morning, Iris."
Castle shrugged, "Just waiting for the baby food storm to rain on my parade."
Suddenly Iris playfully slammed her spoon on her highchair table, "Mama!" She yelled in an excited high pitched voice, catching everyone in surprise.
Kate gasped as a smile slowly grew on her face. Castle smiled widely in surprise at Iris' first word out burst. Kate placed her hand on Castle's shoulder, "Honey, Iris said her first word!" She said excitedly. She excitedly planted a kiss on Iris' cheek rendering a giggle from the little girl.
Castle cheered, "Iris said her first word!" He repeated energetically.
Alexis stopped feeding Serena and gently took her hands and clapped, "Hear that, Serena? Your sister said her first word." Serena just smiled and laughed happily playing along with her big sister.
Kevin Esposito clapped his hands happily, "Can she talk to me now?"
Castle shook his head, "Not yet, but she will eventually. You'll see."
Kevin Esposito smiled as he swallowed another fork full of pancakes. "I can't wait to talk to my baby sisters." He said excitedly.
Kate took out her phone to video Iris, "Iris, can you say 'mama' again?" Iris returned to baby talk for a moment. Kate laughed, "Come on, sweetie. You can do it. Say 'mama'."
Iris looked up at Kate and smiled, "Mama!" She said happily. "Mama!" She said yet again.
Kate laughed happily, "One of our little girls said her first words!" She said excitedly. She put her phone down then kissed her daughter happily on the cheek again. Then she turned and kissed Castle on the cheek, "She said her first word!" She couldn't help but to repeat it. To say that Kate was excited, happy, and proud was a severe understatement.
Castle chuckled, "I know, Kate." He smiled happily. Kate giggled and maneuvered to sit down on her chair at the table in between Castle and Alexis.
Kate waved her hand, "I'm sorry, I'm just super happy that our girls are learning to talk now."
Alexis bounced Serena on her knee gently, "Serena still needs to say her first words." She chuckled, "Your turn, Serena."
Kate turned and tickled Serena, earning a laugh from the baby girl. "She'll say her word soon, now that Iris said it. Serena shouldn't be far behind." Kate smiled happily, "Serena, can you say 'mama'?"
Iris yelled happily, "Mama!" Everyone laughed.
Kate turned to Iris with a warm smile, "Iris, its Serena's turn." Serena only responded in baby talk causing Iris to respond back with her own baby talk, and now suddenly the two twin girls were conversing in twin baby talk. Kate laughed, "I think Serena just needs some more time."
Alexis nodded, "they do a lot together, so I'm sure Serena will learn quickly." She looked down at her sister, "Isn't that right, Serena?" She said playfully causing Serena to giggle in response. "Now, lets finish your food and we can go play again." Alexis said as she picked up the spoon to Serena's oatmeal.
Kevin Esposito frowned, "I wish I can understand them." Castle chuckled at his son's statement.
Castle nodded, "Me too." He leaned toward his son, "I bet they are secretly plotting to enslave you, Alexis, mommy, and me."
Kevin Esposito giggled, "Why is that, Daddy."
"Think about it, son. The twins obviously have the upper hand because we can't understand them see? And they do everything together so they'll mirror each other." Castle said with a smile.
"What do we do, daddy?" Kevin Esposito asked curiously while playing along.
"In order to safe guard…"
Kate laughed, "Alright, that's enough of that you two. Kevin, you know your sisters love you."
Kevin Esposito nodded happily, "Yup. I'm playing along, mommy!"
Castle smiled, "Traitor." He said jokingly. Kevin Esposito smiled at his dad.
Kate chuckled, "I can't wait to tell Martha and my dad about this. They'll be super happy."
Castle quickly pointed to the coffee maker on the counter, "Oh I forgot our coffee on the counter by the coffee maker."
Kate smiled, "Its okay I'll get it, babe." She stood up and made her way to the counter, passing Angel digging into her food in the doggy bowl by the sink. Kate carefully picked up the hot cups of coffee and slowly walked back over to the table, "You know the pediatrician said that its perfectly normal if the twins take a while to develop." She sat back down in her seat and handed Castle one of the cups of coffee.
Castle smiled, "This just means our girls are going to be super smart." He said with a chuckle.
Kate laughed, "She said its perfectly normal IF the twins take a while to develop." She emphasized.
"I like my version better." Castle said under his breath.
Alexis chuckled, "Me too."
Kevin Esposito smiled at his mom, "Me too!" He said excitedly.
Kate laughed, "I never said I didn't like his version." She calmed down then turned to Alexis, "Alexis, what are you doing tonight?"
Alexis smiled excitedly, "Going out with friends to watch the movie premier of 'Heat Wave'." She looked at her curiously, "Why?" She realized what today is, "Oh right. It's the red carpet premier tonight."
Castle smiled, "You never told us if you wanted to come."
Alexis stopped feeding Serena again when she started to look full, "Are you kidding? I'll totally come!" She said excitedly. "It's the red carpet. Never been to one." Serena started to laugh at Alexis' excitement. "I'll reschedule with my friends so I can watch it with them some other time."
Kevin Esposito smiled at his mom, "Can I go?"
Kate looked at him and shook her head and spoke in a gentle tone, "No, I'm sorry, sweetie. I can't let you go. Its too late in the evening for you."
He frowned, "But I want to see the movie too."
Kate smiled reassuringly, "You'll see the movie eventually. I promise."
Kevin Esposito looked at his dad, "Daddy, what does…even-eventu…" He stuttered trying to get the word right.
Castle smiled, "'Eventually' means, at a later time."
Kate leaned forward, "But you will see the movie, I promise."
Kevin Esposito nodded, "Okay, mommy."
"But you can help April watch over your sisters. Can you do that for me?" Kate said with a smile.
Kevin Esposito smiled widely, "Yes!"
"That's my boy." Kate said happily.
Suddenly the bowl of oatmeal on Iris' highchair table top fell onto the rug with a muffled thud and a slop. Kevin Esposito looked down at the mess, "Uh-oh." He said softly.
Castle sighed, "It was only a matter of time…" Sometimes all you can do is just smile. He stood up to get a paper towel to clean up the mess on the floor.
Kate took a bite of her pancakes while she chuckled to herself. Alexis turned and saw Angel now focusing her attention on the spilled oatmeal on the rug, "Uh-oh, Angel sees it."
Castle tore off a few squares of paper towel and saw Angel slurping up the oatmeal. He looked up from the rug and saw Iris Lanie clapping happily at the dog with Kevin Esposito bouncing energetically in his seat. Castle shrugged, "Well, Angel got it covered." He chuckled.
Kate turned and raised an eyebrow, "Rick…" She said in a serious tone and made the look on her face that demanded obedience.
Castle nodded, "Yes dear." He walked over to Angel and took hold of her collar, "Down girl! Down!"
Kate chuckled and rested her chin on her hand as she watched her husband struggle to clean up the mess on the rug while competing with the dog. "Our poor rug." She said jokingly. She saw her son put a big fork load of pancakes into his mouth. "Smaller bites, sweetie." Kate said in a motherly tone. Kevin Esposito hummed and smiled as he slowly chewed his mouthful of pancakes.
Alexis stood up with Serena in her arms, "I think Serena is full."
Kate nodded, "Want me to get the PlaySafe?" The Castles recently got a larger and wider play pen for the twins. The play pen is tan in color, it has 6-panels in order to make a wide hexagonal shape, its light, and it can fold easily so they could tuck it behind the couches. They still have the small one they used for Kevin Esposito when he was still a baby, but they don't use it as much anymore because the twins are more numerous.
Alexis shook her head, "I got it." She said as she walked to the family room.
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It now late in the afternoon and it turned out to be just another lazy Saturday for the most part. Everyone is dressed for the day and spending time together in the quiet family room. The Castles extended the 6-panel PlaySafe gate across the family room so it blocked the kid's ability to leave the room and keep them within supervision. On the couch facing the TV sat Kate leaning her back against the arm rest reading a book on her IPad. She wore a dark blue short sleeve cowl neck top and tight black jeans. Alexis sat on the other end of the couch, reading a hard cover book, and she wore a green V-neck long sleeve chiffon blouse and tight blue jeans. On the floor next to the coffee table, Kevin Esposito was playing with blocks, and wore a red t-shirt with Disney's Baymax on the center and loose blue pants. Playing with the little boy is Castle wearing a blue short sleeve polo shirt and tan pants. Serena and Iris were dressed a little differently this time as they played with their baby toys by the two boys. Iris Lanie wore a similar pink baby onesie like the one she usually wears, but instead it had, "11-month old twin. Older by two minutes" written in dark red on it rather than her name. Serena, like Iris wore a similar sky blue baby onesie with "11-month old twin. Younger by two minutes" written in red on the onesie. Angel on the other hand lay lazily on her side at the foot of the couch in front of Kate.
Kate thoroughly enjoyed these slow and quiet family times they spend together during the day. These times she gets to spend with her family are the best parts of the day to her. She gets to be with her handsome and loving husband, her wonderful red headed daughter, and most importantly her three most important jewels in her life. Her life is extraordinary and in turn her family is as well. She knew all parents think their kids are perfect, but she believes that her kids are the most perfect kids in the world. How could anyone compare? Is what she thought. She is without a doubt biased, but all parents are when it comes to their kids. Kate stopped reading her book on her IPad and lowered it to smile at her kids and husband playing on the floor. Castle definitely is an outstanding father, never afraid to jump right in and play with the kids no matter what it is.
Alexis stopped reading her book as well when she saw Serena stand up on her feet and slowly walk to her little brother and dad. "Uh-oh, Serena is on the move."
Kate smiled, "Hon, looks like Serena-zilla is on her way to smash Kevinopolis."
Kevin Esposito quickly turned around and saw his sister slowly walking toward him with a goofy grin. Castle quickly stood up, "Don't worry, I'll safe guard our city from this colossus." He said earning a laugh from his son. He scooped up his daughter, "Ah! Gotcha!" He yelled playfully earning a loud giggle from Serena. Angel quickly looked over at the commotion and started to wag her tail excitedly.
Iris gently patted her stuffed toy, "Mama!" She yelled happily.
Kate smiled and looked over the coffee table to her daughter, "Mommy is right here, sweetie."
"Mama!" Iris called again with a smile. As Castle bounced Serena playfully in his arms, he curiously glanced over at Iris to see what she was doing. Iris yelled happily, "Mama!" She called yet again.
Castle chuckled, "Now that she said her first word, I bet she will go non stop talking. No stopping it now." He said humorously. Serena smiled at his dad and made funny noises as she planted her hands on her dad's face. Castle kissed her, "Am I right, Serena?" Serena giggled.
"Mama!" Iris yelled happily again as she flung her arms in the air playfully.
"She gets her talkative nature from you, babe." Kate said with a smile.
Alexis chuckled, "That's for sure."
"Hey!" Castle said mock defensively. He looked over at Serena in his arms with a funny grin on his face, "Hey Serena, you think I'm talkative?" Serena started to laugh loudly in response. Castle looked back at his wife and daughter on the couch, "See, she doesn't think so. What do you know." He said with a chuckle.
Kate laughed, "I know quite a lot thank you very much."
Iris giggled with her stuffed animal in her arms, "Mama!" Kate chuckled to herself, not knowing what to do with Iris at the moment. It just seems Iris is just making noise just to make noise and might not actually need her at all.
Kevin Esposito sat up and crossed his legs and looked at his mom curiously, "Mommy."
Kate smiled, "Yes, honey?"
"I think Iris made a stinky." Kevin Esposito said calmly.
Kate put her IPad down and stood up, "Iris needs to change?"
Kevin Esposito nodded, "I think so." Kate navigated her way to Iris to pick her up and see for herself.
Alexis spoke up calmly, "I can change her if need be."
Kate picked up her little one, "I got it Alexis, don't worry." She cautiously took a whiff of the air to see if Iris did use the bathroom in her diaper. Iris giggled as Kate looked at her with a confused expression. "Kevin, your sister didn't make a stinky."
Kevin Esposito shrugged, "I don't know, Mommy."
Iris hugged her mom, "Mama."
Kate patted her back, "Mommy's here." She said with a smile.
Suddenly Serena spoke up catching everyone off guard, "Mama!"
Castle looked at his daughter in surprise, "Serena… did you just…"
Serena smiled and yelled happily, "Mama!"
Castle raised his baby girl in the air, "Serena said her first word!"
Kate smiled and bounced Iris in her arms, "Our girls said their first words!" She said excitedly. She kissed Iris on the cheek, "Iris, Serena said her first word!" Iris planted her hands on Kate's cheek. "You were probably communicating with her weren't you?" Iris only giggled in response.
Castle kissed his baby girl, "Ah! Our girls! Growing up too fast!"
Angel stood up to try and get in on the family moment. Alexis quickly put her book down and called out to the dog, "Angel sit!" The young dog stopped in her tracks but continued to look up at Kate and Castle as she wagged her tail. Alexis spoke up again, "Angel…sit." She commanded yet again. Angel sat down in her place and looked at Alexis curiously with her tongue hanging out. Alexis stood up and walked over to her little brother.
Kevin Esposito looked up at his big sister, "What did Angel do, Lexis?" He held up his arms so he could be picked up by his big sister.
Alexis picked her little brother up with an exaggerated "oof". "Getting heavy, Kevin." She smiled, "I didn't want Angel to destroy your blocks."
Kevin looked down at his blocks, "Its okay. I was done." Alexis smiled at her little brother. "Angel!" He called the dog's name.
Angel quickly moved from her spot and ran through the blocks, destroying Castle's and Kevin Esposito's creation. Kevin Esposito smiled, "Good doggy."
Kate stepped closer to Castle, "Our baby girls."
Castle kissed Serena on the cheek again, "Said their first words!"
Kate turned to Alexis, "Oh Alexis, can you get my phone?" Alexis nodded then turned to the couch with Kevin Esposito still in her arms, and carefully bent down and picked up Kate's phone. She returned to Kate and handed her the phone. Kate smiled, "Thanks, Alexis."
Alexis smiled, "Going to take a video?"
Kate nodded, "Mhmm." She skillfully with one hand put her IPhone on video, "Come on Serena, say your first one." She said excitedly.
Iris yelled happily, "Mama!"
Castle chuckled, "It's Serena's turn, Iris." He said in a playful voice.
Kate chuckled and encouraged her little girl, "Come on Serena."
Serena cringed for a moment like she was trying to focus on how to say the word. Then suddenly, "Mama!" Serena yelled happily.
Kate cooed happily, "Aw! That's my girl!" She positioned herself and her phone in a certain angle so she could video both the twins, "Now, can you both say 'mama'?" Castle chuckled and angled Serena to be right next to Iris.
Iris spoke up first, "Mama!" She yelled excitedly.
Serena soon followed, "Mama!" She called with equal excitement.
Kate lowered her phone, "That's my girls." She kissed both her girls on the cheeks, "I'm so happy…"
Kevin Esposito smiled, "When can they say my name, mommy?"
Alexis chuckled, "Not for a while, buddy."
Kevin Esposito frowned, "Aw."
Kate came over and kissed her son on the head, "They will. You'll see." Iris reached for her brother causing Kevin Esposito to squeeze her hand gently.
Suddenly the door bell rang. Castle quickly reacted, "April can't be here now. Its still early."
Alexis chuckled, "Maybe she likes to spend time with our kids as much as we do."
Kate laughed, "I wouldn't mind that. April is a good girl. If she likes to come by this much that means it gives us more free time." She said humorously.
Castle gently put Serena on the floor, "I'll get the door." He quickly and skillfully hopped the baby gate to get out of the family room.
Serena raised her arms to be picked up again, "Mama!" She looked like she was about to cry.
Kate smiled, "Mommy is right here." Serena started to cry because she wanted to be picked up.
Alexis put her little brother down next to Angel, "Uh-oh. Looks like someone wants to be picked up."
Kate smiled, "Can you pick her up, Alexis?" Angel quickly started to lick Kevin Esposito's face making the little boy giggle and laugh.
Alexis nodded, "That's the plan."
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Castle had a warm smile on his face as he opened the front door without checking the peephole. But his smile soon faded when he saw who was at the door. "Meredith… what are you doing here?" He grunted, "And how did you find my house?"
Meredith Lee Harper, Castle's first ex-wife and biological mother of Alexis, stood at the front door with her typical grin on her face. She wore her long red hair down like she always did since Castle had known her. She wore her typical designer clothing consisting of a fancy long sleeve red blouse, tight designer black pants, and high heels. Additionally, she had over amounts of jewelry and a fancy silver designer handbag hanging on her forearm. Meredith shrugged and smiled, "Hello, Rick." She said in a condescending tone.
Castle shook his head, "What are you doing? Why are you here?" Meredith tried to step in but Castle this time didn't want her entering his home. "Answer the questions." He said sternly.
Meredith smiled smugly, "Rick… what has gotten into you. You haven't been like this before." Castle didn't respond. She smiled, "Come on, we had pretty good flings, right?"
"Its in the past." Castle gave her a cold stare, "Now…answer."
Meredith leaned one hip, "Silly after I found out that you moved, I hired a private investigator to go find you." She chuckled, "Kind of rude you didn't tell me you were moving. Moved my daughter and didn't even tell me."
Castle sighed, "You hired a PI to find me?"
"Yes, I hired a PI to track down the famous and notorious PI , writer, and Cop helper." Meredith send in a funny tone.
"Now what are you doing here?" Castle asked coldly.
Meredith smiled, "I'm here to see my daughter. She graduated college so I have to celebrate with her."
"She graduated over a month ago, and we threw a big party already."
Meredith put a hand on her hip, "No one told me she graduated. I had to find out from my PI guy." She waved her hand, "Oh whatever Rick, she still has to celebrate with me."
"You weren't there when she was little when she needed a mother. You weren't there when she was a teenager, and you weren't there at her high school graduation." Castle scoffed, "so why would you be here now? By the way, my mother is more of a mother figure to her than you were." He flared his arms, "Kate, her stepmom, is more of a mother to her than you ever were."
Meredith put a finger to her lip and said cheekily, "That's right you got married to Detective Kate Beckett. Real gentlemen like of you to miss your own wedding…"
Castle squinted with a cold stare, "Don't change the subject." He lifted his hand and pointed to his wedding ring, "And yes, we still got married. And we're happy here."
"Oh yeah, you also had kids with her. I forgot their names" Meredith kept up her pretentious smile.
"The oldest is a boy, Kevin Esposito, and twin girls are named Iris Lanie and Serena Johanna." Castle responded calmly.
"Kevin Esposito?" Meredith laughed, "Esposito? For a middle name." She laughed again.
"Yeah… Got a problem with that?" Castle replied defensively.
"Does Kate really know you, Rick? Or is she on the outside looking in?" Meredith said with a coy smile.
XXXXXXXXXXX
In the family room Kate still held Iris and Alexis still held Serena while Kevin Esposito was busy playing with the dog on the floor. Kate looked confused, "What's taking your dad so long? Is it April?" She asked curiously.
Alexis shrugged, "I don't know."
"I don't know, but I feel like something is wrong." Kate said concerned. "Alexis, can you see what's up with your dad?" She smiled warmly, "Go ahead and put Serena down. She'll be fine."
Alexis nodded then put her sister down gently on the floor by Kevin Esposito. Alexis smiled, "Kevin, can you watch our sister for me?"
Kevin Esposito smiled, "Yup!" He quickly scooted over so he can play with his little sister and try to keep her from crying because she's no longer being carried. Kate smiled at the two of them.
Alexis climbed over the baby gate to see what's going on at the front door.
XXXXXXXXXX
Meredith chuckled, "I never seen you act so cold to me before. Actually never seen you act like this before at all."
"Lets just say one of us had to wise up eventually... and our last encounter wasn't exactly a good one." Castle said.
Alexis' voice broke the heated situation, "Mom?" She said surprised.
Meredith opened up her arms, "Alexis, my dear!" She tried to come in, but Castle blocked the door again.
Castle shook his head, "I didn't say you can come in." Alexis stopped by her dad's side.
Meredith kept her smile, "I would hug you but your dad won't let me in the house."
Alexis looked up at her dad saw him looking at her biological mother with a cold stare. She knew right away that her dad wasn't happy to see her mother. She looked back at her mother, "What are you doing here?"
Meredith looked up at Castle then back at Alexis, "I came to celebrate your graduation from college." She smiled happily, "I'm going to take you to the red carpet premier of 'Heat Wave' tonight at the AMC Loews Lincoln theater. I'm sure you'd love to go to the red carpet."
Castle grunted in frustration. Alexis knew her dad's pain and she too had her own frustrations with her. She accepted the fact that Meredith is her biological mother but doesn't see her as a real mother figure. She shook her head, "I'm going with my dad and…Kate… to the red carpet tonight." She had to make sure she didn't say "mom" when she referred to Kate because the situation between her dad and her biological mother are fragile enough as it is, so she didn't want to make it worse.
Meredith frowned, "I see…"
Castle spoke up coldly, "You never spent time with her anyway, so why does it matter?"
Alexis looked up at her dad, "Dad…" She said in a concerned tone.
"Don't say that you want to try and make up for lost time because…"
Alexis yanked her dad's arm, "Dad stop. Its okay."
Castle sighed ad frowned, "Sorry, Pumpkin…" He did go over the top a little.
XXXXXXXXX
In the family room, Kate put Iris down on the floor, "Mommy will be right back okay?" Iris rolled on her back and giggled. Kate looked at her son, "Kevin, watch your sisters for me please." She looked at the dog, "You too, Angel." Angel only wagged her tail in response.
Kevin Esposito stopped playing with Serena, "Okay mommy!"
Kate climbed over the baby gate, "Mommy will be right back."
XXXXXXXXX
Castle sighed, "Next time you want to see Alexis. Call her then she'll give me a head up that you're coming. Stop surprising us at home…"
Kate came to the front door and wrapped an arm around Castle, "What's going on?"
Castle shrugged, "Just having a heated conversation with my ex-wife."
Kate didn't initially see Meredith at first, "Ex-wife?"
Meredith, who seemed like she wasn't phased by the cold shoulder Castle gave, continued to smile, "Kate Beckett. So good to see you again."
Kate quickly realized and smiled a disarming smile, "Its Kate Castle now. What can we do for you?"
Meredith smiled, "My apologies Mrs. Castle. I Just wanted to see my daughter."
Kate nodded, "Ah." She looked at Castle, "Babe, the kids want you." She said knowing that Castle is tense and frustrated with Meredith, so she formed an excuse for Castle to get out of the situation.
Castle nodded, "I'll be right there." He turned around and left.
Meredith smiled at Alexis, "Alexis, just let me know when you want to spend time together. My number is the same."
Alexis nodded, "Will do." She said with a bit of sarcasm.
Meredith waved, "Well, I'll hopefully see all of you at the red carpet tonight." She turned and walked away in a pretentious manner.
Kate closed the door and sighed, "Wow."
Alexis nodded, "Yeah."
"She's going to be there tonight?" Kate asked curiously.
"Yeah…" Alexis said calmly.
Kate looked toward the family room and kitchen, "Your dad…"
Alexis interrupted her, "He didn't want to see her…and I don't blame him." Kate just nodded quietly. Alexis smiled at Kate, "lets go… mom." She said emphasizing "mom" as she walked back toward the family room.
Kate smiled, "Right behind you, bud."
XXXXXXXXXXXXX
It was almost time for the driver to come by and pick up the Castles for the red carpet premier of "Heat Wave". Alexis was busy getting ready in her room while both Kate and Castle got ready in the master bedroom. Kate stood in front of the sink fixing her hair, and she wore a beautiful Bariano Ocean of Elegance Navy Blue Maxi Dress. This Navy Blue Georgette starts with a beautiful combination of tank straps with sheer off-the-shoulder straps that support a fitted bodice featuring a plunging sweetheart neckline with elegant fabric details. Additional fabric delicately encircles an empire waistline, while a floor-length skirt with a stunning 31" side slit flows below. Her long hair looked beautiful with its elegant curls making Kate looking like an angel sent from the heavens.
Kate called out to her husband, "Babe, you okay?" She asked curiously because he has been awfully quiet since Meredith showed up at their door step.
Castle walked into the bathroom looking rather dashing in a shiny black suit, white dress shirt, silver tie, and shiny polished black dress shoes. He leaned against the door frame, "Yeah, why?"
Kate looked at him through the mirror, "You seem a lot quieter than usual. Is it because of Meredith?"
Castle smiled, "That obvious huh?"
"I can read you like a book." Kate said with a gentle smile.
Castle chuckled, "That you do." Its true, Kate knew him inside and out. She could even anticipate his movements before he even made them. It was pretty scary how well she knows him sometimes.
Kate smiled, "Well? What's the matter? Alexis told me you never acted so cold to anyone like that before." She said in a calm voice.
Castle shook his head, "Meredith… used a PI to find me."
Kate couldn't help but laugh, "Really?" She turned around and rested her hand on the counter, "Kind of funny how she used a PI to find another PI."
Castle chuckled, "Yeah…" He shook his head and waved his hand, "I don't want to dwell on her anymore. She's history, ancient history." He stood straight and walked toward Kate. When he got to his beautiful wife, he rested his hands on her hips and brought her close to him. Kate automatically rested her arms on their place on his shoulders. He smiled warmly, "She's the past…and you are my present and my future." He kissed her gently, "Our kids… our family… is the present and future. And you will always be in my thoughts and in my heart." He chuckled, "And she'll be a distant memory because she's the person who brought me Alexis."
Kate chuckled, "Did you write this down before or did you just think it up on the spot."
Castle didn't answer and just leaned in to capture her lips again. He pulled away and said astonished, "Wow! You look incredible."
Kate blushed, "Thank you. You don't look so bad yourself."
"Yeah, well I don't need to try to look this handsome."
Kate giggled, "Oh hush." She was about to kiss him again when a knock on their bedroom caused them to separate.
Castle called, "Come in!"
They heard the bedroom door open and Alexis call, "Guys?"
Kate called, "We're in here, bud!"
Alexis stepped into the bathroom looking beautiful in a long black sleeveless figure hugging stretch dress with a square neck exposing her collar bone. The dress showed off her curves and had an open back making her look incredible. Alexis smiled, "April is here. I let her in."
Kate smiled, "perfect."
Castle scanned his daughter up and down with an approving smile, "Alexis! You look beautiful, sweetie. Wow!"
Kate nodded, "Yeah you do! You look gorgeous in that dress."
Alexis smiled, "Thank you. Both of you look incredible too."
Kate smiled, "I don't know about me, but your dad…" She waved her hand like a fan, "If you're dad keeps dressing like that he's going to have to catch me when I swoon."
Castle chuckled, "I don't think they'll will be looking at me tonight." He shrugged, "Two beautiful women on each arm, they won't be looking at me." The trio laughed happily.
Kate did a final check over in the mirror, once she was sure she looked perfect she turned to her family, "Lets head down."
Castle smiled, "Ladies first."
XXXXXXXXX
Moments later the trio walked into the kitchen and adjoining family room. Kate smiled at April sitting cross legged in the family room with the dog and kids surrounding her, "Hi, April." She said cheerfully.
April the young babysitter is a blonde teenager still in high school. She wore a white shirt, skinny jeans, and a pair of black and white converse. She looked up and smiled, "Hi Mr. & Mrs. Castle." She tried to stand up but the twins didn't seem like they wanted her to stand up because they were trying to climb onto her, and Kevin Esposito was busy hugging her from behind with a big grin on his face effectively anchoring her to the floor. Angel didn't help either because she rested her head on her lap as the kids held her down.
Kate chuckled, "You don't need to stand up. The kids don't seem to want you to get up. They really like you." She said as she went to the counter to grab her matching Navy Blue pocketbook.
April smiled at the twins trying to climb on her lap, "And I love them." She chuckled then looked back up at the Castles, "You all look incredible."
Castle nodded, "Thanks, April." He said as he put his hands in his pockets. Alexis simply smiled and stood by her dad's side.
April spoke up, "You're going to the premier of 'Heat Wave' aren't you?" She asked curiously.
Castle nodded, "Better believe we are." He said excitedly.
"I can't wait to see that movie." April said with equal excitement.
Kate walked toward the baby gate blocking off the family room, "Oh, sorry if you wanted to watch the premier tonight. I didn't know." She said genuinely feeling bad.
April waved her hand, "No big, Mrs. Castle. I can always watch it later with my friends. Besides I need money to watch movies and buy snacks." She pointed to the trio, "Just no spoilers when you get back."
Castle chuckled, "Didn't you read the book?"
"Yeah, I did. But… still!" April said with a smile. Everyone laughed.
Kate opened her pocketbook and took out a wad of cash then reached over the gate to April, "Here is the money for tonight."
April graciously took it and smiled, "Thank you, Mrs. Castle. Have fun tonight."
"You too, April." Kate smiled, "So you know the drill?"
April nodded with a smile, "I got it."
Suddenly the door bell rang. Alexis smiled, "Think our driver is here."
Castle waved, "Have fun, April!" He said as he turned for the door.
April laughed, "You too, Mr. Castle."
Kate smiled, "Thanks again for coming over tonight."
"Anytime." April replied.
Kate focused on her kids, "Okay, Mommy, Daddy, and Alexis are going. We'll be back later tonight, okay?"
Kevin Esposito let go of April and sat on his butt, "Bye, Mommy!" He said with a wave. Serena and Iris on the other hand were so focused on April that they didn't know their mommy was leaving. Which is good because there wouldn't be as much crying to start.
XXXXXXXXX
AMC Loews Lincoln Square 13 theater
Its early in the evening and the red carpet premier of "Heat Wave" at AMC Loews Lincoln Square 13 theater is already rocking in full swing. Paparazzi and fans crowded against the gold fence stations and red barrier rope to get a clear view and picture of celebrities and world famous individuals walking down the red carpet. Limousines and VIP cars of all sizes pulled up one by one to the curb to drop off their precious passengers to the awaiting excited crowd. Celebrities of all types came to the premier, and even celebrities who are big fans of the famed Best Selling novelist Richard Castle came just to see the movie adaptation of the book.
A long black limo pulled up to the red carpet and for a very brief moment the crowd silenced as they all anticipated who it was. As soon as the limo passenger door opened, the cameras started snapping and the commotion in the crowd began again. Castle slowly stepped out with his suit jacket unbuttoned to an electric and energetic crowd. As soon as Castle stood straight and buttoned his suit jacket, the fans and paparazzi went ballistic. He fixed his tie with a confident smile as people snapped pictures, called his name, and cheered for him. He turned his head to look back at the limo as Kate slowly stepped out. Kate earned a loud cheer and applause and just as many "Ooh's" and "ahs" as her husband. She swayed her hips then took a step toward her husband. Castle held out his arm causing Kate to link her arm with his. Like Kate, Alexis stepped out in a series of "Ooh's" and "ahs". She stepped closer to her dad with a big warm smile as more pictures were taken and more cheers erupted.
Honestly this is the first time Alexis has been in the major spot light of the paparazzi and her dad's fans. For the longest time she has done her best to distance herself from the limelight so she doesn't get as much public attention as her dad. But this time she decided to put herself out there just this once because this is the red carpet premier of a movie based off her dad's book. She's taking this attention surprisingly well, but she couldn't help but feel a little nervous. She knew Kate was feeling a little nervous too, even though Kate has been in the spotlight with her dad many times.
Castle fixed his tie again then stepped down the path of the red carpet with Alexis walking one pace behind him on his left. As they progressed down the path, Castle stopped to sign autographs on books and take pictures with fans. Fans and paparazzi alike were quick to include the beautiful Castle ladies in pictures and the thousand question game.
The trio made it to the "Heat Wave" back drop in front of a line of paparazzi cameras and fans. They stopped and posed for pictures for what seemed like forever. Alexis looked like she was taking it well with all the camera flashes blinding her. She held her pose and warm smile to the crowd. Kate wrapped her arm around her husband and whispered with a smile, "Do you know what you're doing?"
Castle smiled and whispered, "Not the foggiest idea."
Kate kissed his cheek briefly, "Remember how you said you were still trying to earn that applause? I think you earned it a long time ago."
Castle smile. He wrapped his arms around his wife and his daughter and the trio posed with big smiles. After more photos of the trio, the Castles united with the cast of the movie and their families, and posed with them for a series of large group pictures. It seemed like all they did for the first few hours were posing for pictures. But, after a long series of paparazzi photographs, the group put some distance between them and the paparazzi. The group mingled amongst themselves just in front of the large theater entrance, though there was still lots of paparazzi, fans, and cameras around them. The Castles and the group eventually participated in a series of short interviews from news and entertainment anchors.
Castle made sure to introduce Kate and Alexis to other celebrities when they came by the group. Kate and Alexis are both still relatively new to this type of attention and grouping, but they were taking it extremely well. It shocked Kate and even Alexis on how much famous people Castle knew, and how many famous people are fans of his books. All the celebrities the Castles met were very polite and professional. The cast of the movie were also extremely nice and approachable toward the Castles. Tom Hardy and his wife conversed with Kate after she excitedly commented on all of Tom's movies, "I'm just trying to stay employed." He told her humorously. Kate and Alexis couldn't help but laugh along with the famed actor. It also turned out that Natalie Portman is a fan of Castle's book and she was very excited to get the main role in the movie. The director and the rest of the cast all expressed their desire for a sequel to the movie, and since it's a long series of books anything is possible.
Soon enough the movie was about to begin and everyone made their way into the theater to watch the highly anticipated "Heat Wave" movie.
XXXXXXXXXX
After two hours and thirty minutes the movie was finally over. The film adaptation of "Heat Wave" showed the very essence of the book and captured the mystery, crime, and action of the whole book. The movie stayed true to the book for the most part just like Castle had hoped. The Castles liked it, and even Kate liked how Natalie Portman portrayed Nikki Heat throughout the movie. Everyone in the theater liked it judging by the response at the end of the movie, though the critics will find some way to criticize it like they always do. The two main stars of the movie did a phenomenal job and stole the show, Tom Hardy did an excellent job as Jameson Rook and Natalie Portman did an outstanding job as Nikki Heat. In the end the Castles evening at the red carpet premier was a perfect end for an overall good day.
The Castles walked out of the theater together along with the crowd of people and celebrities to the awaiting paparazzi still standing outside of the theater. Castle smiled as the sound of pictures being taken rang through his ears. He whispered to his family "Ah Paparazzi… this is probably the only time I'll have this many cameras pointed at me."
Kate linked her arm with his, "Faster we get to the limo the faster we'll be away from this." She whispered into his ear, "And we can do something fun at home… something to do with ice." She said seductively.
Castle stopped in his tracks with a seductive look on his face. Her comment about the ice got him thinking. She does have a creative use of ice that drives him crazy. Alexis didn't notice the look, "What's wrong, dad?"
Castle shook his head and looked at his daughter, "What?"
Alexis looked at him confused, "You stopped? What's up?"
Castle shook his head and began walking again, "Nothing, we're good." Kate laughed and Alexis just shook her head.
Suddenly Castle felt his phone vibrate in his pocket. He took his phone out and answered it, "Castle." He said crisply. He paused and a look of shock went across his face.
Kate and Alexis noticed. Alexis look concerned, "Dad?"
Kate automatically felt concerned about the kids, "Is it April?"
Castle nodded, "We'll be right there." He hung up the phone, but before he can speak Kate spoke up first.
"Is it our kids? Are they okay?" She said concerned in full mother mode.
Castle shook his head, "Jenny went into labor."
Kate sighed in relief then tensed again, "Oh…"
"We have to meet the Ryans at the hospital."
Kate nodded, "Right. Lets head to the house first so we can drop Alexis off, so she can watch the kids while we take the car and get to the hospital."
Castle nodded, "I like it."
Alexis nodded, "me too."
Kate tugged on Castle's arm, "Lets get going!"
XXXXXXXXXXXXXX
Hospital Waiting Room
Its late in the evening and it has been hours since Jenny went into labor. In the relatively empty waiting room, Ryan sat uncomfortably on one of the couches with his daughter resting her head on his lap, and the Espositos sat on another couch waiting patiently for news. The TV on the wall played the local news to break the tense silence that generally accompanies hospital waiting rooms.
Sarah Grace whispered, "When's mommy coming out, dad?"
Ryan ran his hand through his daughter's hair, "I don't know. We just have to be patient." He felt his daughter tense. "But I'm sure she's fine. You'll see."
"You promise, dad?"
Ryan tensed. He didn't want to make a promise that was out of his control, and he also didn't want to sound pessimistic. But anything could happen during child birth. Lanie spoke up, "Don't worry Sarah, your mom is in good hands. Trust me and your dad."
Sarah Grace looked at Auntie Lanie and nodded with a smile, "Okay."
Esposito wrapped his arm around Lanie, "These things take time. Just be patient."
Suddenly the news anchor on the TV got everyone's attention, "Earlier was the Red Carpet premier of the much anticipated movie 'Heat Wave' starring Tom Hardy and Natalie Portman. The movie is based off the best selling novel written by New York native author Richard Castle." He smiled, "Christy Andrews was on the red carpet earlier to speak to Richard Castle, his wife Captain of the 12th Precinct Katherine Castle, and Richard's daughter, Alexis Castle."
Esposito smiled, "I can't wait to see that movie. Wish we could've gone to the Red Carpet. Meet all those movie stars." Lanie leaned into him and watched the TV.
Ryan sighed uncomfortably. He just wanted news of his wife and newborn baby. Sarah Grace shot up in her seat and pointed to the TV, "Look Dad, its Uncle Richard and Auntie Kate."
Ryan smiled warmly at her, "Yup. You'll see them later." He rubbed her back.
XXXXXXXXXX
On the TV, Christy Andrews, the anchor at the red carpet premier, smiled at the camera, "I'm here with Richard Castle, Captain Katherine Castle, and Alexis Castle at the AMC Loews Lincoln Square 13 theater." She turned to Castle, "Richard, what can you say about this movie? Are you excited? Any spoilers?"
Castle smiled, "I definitely want to say spoilers, but if you read the book than you already know." He chuckled, "I'm definitely excited, the cast and director put a lot of hard work into making this book come to life, and just from the trailers I can tell that this movie is going to be good. I couldn't make it look better."
"But you consulted for the movie so it could be as true to the book as possible, right?"
"Of course, but I mean the cast and the director do their own thing so they can sell the story in an acting and visual perspective. I just told hardened the details on the story." Castle laughed, "I'm actually really excited. Hollywood made a movie out of my book. That's awesome!" He cheered excitedly.
Christy laughed, "Thank you, Richard. May I ask your wife and daughter some questions?"
Castle nodded, "Please, you don't need my permission, you need theirs." He laughed, "Excuse me." He turned and left the camera.
Christy focused on Kate, "Captain Kate Castle…"
Kate smiled, "Kate's fine."
"Kate, first may I say that you and Alexis look very beautiful. Absolutely stunning."
Kate smiled, "Thank you."
Alexis bowed, "Castle women always have to dress their best."
"That they do." Christy said with a smile. "Kate, may I say that for someone who has three kids you look incredible! How do you stay in that good of shape?"
Kate chuckled, "Workout. A lot." She emphasized. "And eat healthy. I'm still very active in the field so I have to be able to catch the bad guys if the boys can't do it."
XXXXXXXXXXXX
Esposito squinted, "Wow…" Lanie laughed.
Ryan cracked a smile and a chuckle, "Can't believe she said that."
Sarah Grace giggled, "Auntie Kate can out run both of you. I seen it." She said excitedly.
Esposito shook his head, "No she can't."
Lanie smiled, "Yeah she can."
"Who's side are you on?"
Ryan finally laughed, "She's tough. I'll give her that."
Suddenly Kate and Castle entered the waiting room, still dressed in their formal attire. The couple took the limo back then immediately took the car to the hospital. Alexis relieved April from her baby sitting duties so the teenager can go home. Kate smiled reassuringly at Ryan, "Everything okay, Ryan? Any word?"
Ryan turned serious, "No. No word yet."
Castle nodded at the group, "Hey guys." He looked down at Sarah Grace, "Hey there Sarah." He sat down next to Sarah Grace with a warm smile.
Sarah Grace smiled at sat up straight, "Hi, Uncle Rick! Is Kevin here?"
Kate shook her head, "No, he's at home helping watch over his little sisters." She said as she sat down next to Ryan and crossed her leg over the other. She whispered to Ryan, "No word, huh?"
Ryan shook his head, "No word. Can't help but feel worried."
Kate rested a hand on his lap, "Don't worry. This takes time."
Ryan nodded, "I know."
Esposito nodded, "Yo, Kate. Your interview said that you can outrun us." Lanie chuckled to herself.
Kate nodded, "Yeah I can." She said confidently.
"Really…" Esposito with a competitive smile on his face. Lanie shook her head.
"Espo, I can run circles around you with high heels on." Kate said while showing off her tall heels she's currently wearing.
Lanie chuckled, "Its true."
Castle nodded, "Yeah." He looked at Sarah Grace, "Right?"
Sarah Grace raised her hands, "Yeah!"
Esposito sighed, "Wow…"
Castle noticed Ryan slowly tensing. He reassured him, "Ryan, trust me. She's fine."
Ryan nodded, "I'm trying not to worry but…" Suddenly a door opened and a female doctor stepped in. Ryan slowly stood up.
The doctor nodded calmly at him, "Are you Kevin Ryan?"
Ryan nodded, "I am."
The doctor smiled, "You're now a father of a beautiful baby girl." She nodded, "Mrs. Ryan is okay. She's just resting at the moment." Everyone let out a sigh of relief.
Ryan panted heavily in relief. He smiled, "Thank you, Doctor."
Sarah Grace hopped off the couch and looked up at her dad, "Daddy?"
Ryan picked her up happily, "Mommy is okay. You're now a big sister. You got a little sister now."
Sarah Grace smiled, "Yay!"
Ryan looked at the doctor, "Can we see her?"
Doctor smiled, "Of course."
Ryan excitedly walked to the door. The Castles and Espositos slowly joined him.
A good day…
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
Quote from Mass Effect
Quote from a Tom Hardy Interview
SO the reason why I have Tom Hardy as Rook and Natalie Portman as Heat was because I saw a picture on the Google overlord with those two on it, photo shopped to be Castle and Beckett.
I never liked Meredith so I made Castle react coldly to her. I mean… she did barge into his loft with no intention of actually caring for Alexis.
Apologies for grammar and spelling mistakes. Been a hell of a couple of weeks. Will edit more thoroughly later.