Ok so I'm sorry I haven't posted in a little while, but I promise I have a really good reason. I've been going back and forth with something. As I've said, I already have this story finished. Well, I've been considering adding more scenes to make it longer and I started writing some stuff...but after much deliberation I decided to keep the story I had. Everything I wrote just sounded forced if that makes sense. I can't write on a schedule. The only way it turns out good is if I have inspiration and it just comes to me. That is what happened with this story. This is so not where I planned on taking it when I started writing...but it just kind of happened...and I feel like sometimes that makes it better. Also, after the recent episode where she said Meredith not being there had never been a problem...I realize that Alexis wouldn't be upset like she was in the previous chapters and in this one...but hey-this is fiction right? I know it isn't perfect and there are always things I could add or take out or make better, but I'm happy with it how I had it...and I hope you like it too :).
Steph
The first two weeks of Rick's book tour went by fast. Paula was keeping Rick busy with signings and readings and interviews but he and Kate talked every night. They had a few easy open and shut cases at the precinct and Kate had actually been getting home at a reasonable hour. She and Alexis got to hang out a lot—one night they made a new Mongolian Chicken recipe they found online and made their Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip cookies for dessert. Another night Alexis showed her how to make Eggplant Parmesan and Kate introduced her to an ice cream specialty that she had invented during her first year of college, which she called 'Ice Cream Surprise' (vanilla ice cream with crushed up oreos, chocolate syrup, and whipped cream). Kate had been able to duck out of work early a few times to go to some AA meetings with her dad and it seemed like he was doing well—he even came over to have dinner with her and Alexis one night. They hadn't talked more about Kate giving up the case and she was glad that he didn't ask because she still wasn't sure what to do. Nothing new had come up…so things were at a standstill…for the moment anyway. It was finally Friday and Kate and Alexis decided to stay up late and have their chic fic marathon and make brownies. In the middle of their night Alexis started feeling off, but assured Kate she was fine, not wanting to ruin their fun. They continued watching Sixteen Candles and when it was finally 1:00am they went to bed. 3 hours later Kate was startled awake by a loud crash. She heard noise coming from Alexis' room so she quickly got out of bed to check on her.
"Alexis?" she called walking into the girl's room. She saw the light on in the bathroom and when she entered it didn't take her long to discover the cause of the noise. Alexis was leaning over the toilet, white as a ghost, and looking like she was about to pass out and her curling iron and makeup were on the floor—she must have accidently dropped them when she was gripping the counter for balance when she was running to the toilet. "Alexis!" Kate ran to kneel next to her, "Alexis what's wrong?"
Alexis looked up at Kate and took a shaky breath, "Stomach. It really hurts and I can't stop throwing up."
Kate ran a hand over Alexis' forehead and cheek, pushing back her sweat soaked hair, and became alarmed at how hot she was, "Oh sweetie, you're pretty warm. How long have you been getting sick for?"
"Couple hours?"
"Alexis! Why didn't you come wake me?"
"I'm fine Kate, it's just probably just something I ate."
"Alexis we ate the exact same thing."
"Stomach bug then. I'll be fine."
Kate looked at her warily. Something told her this wasn't just a stomach bug but she couldn't quite put her finger on why, "Alexis where does your stomach hurt?" Alexis put her hand over her lower right abdomen. 'Shit' Kate thought. "Is it sharp pains?" Alexis just nodded. "Ok honey I think you may have appendicitis. We need to take you to the hospital."
"No!" Alexis said quickly, "No hospitals Kate, I'll be fine. Please. Just, help me lay back down and I'll sleep it off."
"Alexis…"
"Please Kate."
Kate sighed, "Ok, but if it keeps getting worse we're going." Alexis nodded and Kate grabbed an arm to help her up.
They barely made it to the door when Alexis gripped Kate's hand, "Wait!" she said and urgently turned around and rushed back to the toilet to throw up. Kate was by her side in a second and rubbed a hand up and down her back and held her ponytail back. When they finally made it to the bed Alexis scrunched up in a ball to try and ease the pain, but it wasn't working. Kate laid down beside her and tried to rub a soothing hand up and down her back, hoping she would fall asleep, but not 10 minutes later Alexis was running to the bathroom again.
After another 40 minutes Kate just knew this wasn't a stomach bug. When they finally laid back down she ran a hand over Alexis forehead to check her temperature, "Oh my God! Alexis! You're burning up! The pain is worse, you can't even keep water down, you're getting sick like every 10 minutes…we have to go to the hospital honey." Tears started falling down Alexis's cheeks, "Oh honey, it's gonna be fine."
Alexis shook her head, "I don't want to go to the…Ooowww owww!" Alexis cried scrunching up even more and gripping Kate's hand, "Kate it really really hurts."
"I know baby, that's why we have to go. If it is your appendix and it bursts that is really dangerous."
Alexis' eyes were full of fear as more tears fell, "Kate, I want my dad."
Kate's heart broke for her, "Oh baby, I know, but you're gonna be ok I promise. I'm here ok?" Alexis nodded and Kate squeezed her hand. "Ok, let's go. Where are your shoes?" Alexis pointed to her shoes and Kate quickly got them and put them on her before helping her downstairs. She slipped her shoes on that were by the door and quickly grabbed her keys and purse and they made their way to the hospital.
When they got to the hospital they were quickly taken back. The doctors did some tests and it didn't take long for them to pull the curtain back to give them the results, "Well Ms. Beckett, it looks like your suspicious were correct. It's a good thing you brought her in when you did, it is appendicitis." Kate gripped Alexis' hand, "Fortunately," the doctor continued, "you brought her in before it burst so we'll do surgery right away and you'll be just fine Alexis."
"Right away?" Alexis asked, "But I mean, we can wait for my dad right. We have to call him, he can be here by this afternoon…"
"I'm sorry Alexis," the doctor said regretfully, "But if we wait, your appendix might burst and that lends to a lot of dangerous complications."
"But it's just until this afternoon," Alexis begged and then turned to Kate with tears in her eyes, "Kate please! I can't…I want my dad."
"Oh sweetheart, I know you do." She said stroking her cheek, "but it's too risky to wait Alexis. We'll call him before and you can talk to him ok?"
"Kate…no…"
"Honey we don't have a choice."
Alexis gripped the bed sheets in frustration. Kate sighed and moved from her chair to sit next to Alexis on the bed and bring her into a hug. Alexis started crying more, "I want my dad Kate. I don't want to have surgery without him here. I can't…I want my dad."
The doctor looked at them, "I'll give you guys a minute and go get everything ready ok." Kate nodded as she held Alexis as tight as she could.
After the doctor left Alexis whispered, "I'm scared Kate."
Kate pulled back to look at her, "It's ok to be scared sweetie, but I'm here. I'll walk to the OR with you and I'll be right there when you wake up ok."
"You promise you won't leave?"
"There is nowhere else I would be right now Alexis. Why don't we call your dad ok?" Alexis nodded and Kate reached in her pocket for her cell phone. It was only 5:45am, she knew she would wake him up, but she knew he wouldn't want her to wait. She quickly dialed, still keeping an arm around Alexis.
"Hello" Rick answered groggily.
"Rick…"
"Kate?" He asked confused.
"Yeah, it's me."
She heard him sit up, "What's the matter? Is everything ok?" he said quickly…seemingly more awake.
"We are both ok I promise, but I am at the hospital with Alexis…"
"What?! The hospital?! What happened? Is she ok?" he rushed.
"She is going to be just fine Rick I promise, she has appendicitis."
"Oh my…when did this happen? She has to have surgery right? I don't…I'll get there as fast as I can but…"
"Rick slow down ok. She's fine. She woke up a couple hours ago throwing up and in a lot of pain. It kept getting worse so we came here. They are going to do the surgery right away. Thankfully it hasn't burst yet."
"But I can't be there. God I…"
"I know, Rick, I know. But I'm here, and she'll be fine. She wants to wait for you but…"
"I know, they can't wait, and I don't want them to its too dangerous but…God Kate it's my baby. I want to be there I can't believe...can I talk to her?"
"Of course" she said and gave the phone to Alexis.
"Daddy?"
"Hey pumpkin. How you holding up?"
"Kate's been great. She's taking really good care of me but…but I want you here daddy."
"I wish I was there Alexis and I'm so sorry I'm not. But I am packing up my stuff as we speak and as soon as we hang up I'm getting the first flight there ok. I'll be there in no time."
Alexis let out a shaky breath, "Ok…"
"You're going to be fine Alexis, I promise. This is so routine…all you have to worry about is what kind of ice cream you are going to want."
Alexis gave a small laugh, "Ok dad."
"I love you so much Alexis."
"I love you to dad. And your hurrying?"
"I'm already almost packed pumpkin."
"Ok."
"I'll see you soon Lex."
"Ok bye."
She handed the phone back to Kate, "Hey," she said softly.
"Kate thanks for taking care of my little girl."
"You did not just seriously thank me for this..."
"Right, right, sorry. I just…I'll be there as soon as I can. I'm almost all packed up and then I'll call and get the first flight they have out of here. I'll text you as soon as I have the flight info."
"Ok. And I will text you with constant updates, I promise. She'll be fine Rick; I'll take good care of her."
"I know." Rick said softly, "I know…and there is no one else besides me I'd rather be there with her."
"You go get a flight, I'll text you soon ok?"
"Ok, talk to you soon."
"Ok."
"Oh and Kate?" he said quickly before she could hang up.
"Yeah?"
"I love you."
"Oh Rick...I love you too."
"I'll see you soon."
"Ok see you soon, bye."
"Bye Kate."
Kate hung up the phone and looked at Alexis who had her eyes closed. She ran a hand over her forehead, "Is the pain better with the medicine?" Kate asked softly.
Alexis nodded her head, "Yeah a little. I'm so tired though." She murmured without opening her eyes.
Kate smiled softly, "Just rest honey, I'm not going anywhere."
20 minutes later the doctor came in and Alexis slowly opened her eyes hearing the curtain open. Alexis, we're gonna go ahead and start prepping you for surgery ok?"
Alexis nodded hesitantly, "Kate can stay with me right?"
The doctor smiled, "Of course. She can stay with you until we wheel you through the OR. She can even walk with us to the OR if you want."
"Ok good." Alexis sighed, relieved.
The doctors prepped Alexis for surgery and 30 minutes later they were wheeling her to the OR. Kate was walking beside them holding Alexis' hand. Alexis looked up at her, "I feel kinda loopy."
Kate smiled, "That's normal with what they gave you honey."
"Ok." the doctor said as they reached the OR doors, "this is where we have to say goodbye Alexis."
Kate leaned down and gave Alexis a kiss on the forehead, "I'll see you soon sweetie. I'll be there when you wake up."
"Promise?"
"I promise. Just relax; everything is going to be fine. I love you."
"I love you too Kate. You'll talk to dad?"
Kate nodded, "And he'll be here before you know it."
"Ok. Love you." Alexis said again.
Kate gave her another kiss on the forehead, "I love you baby." Kate nodded at the doctor and with one more squeeze of Alexis' hand they wheeled her into the OR. Kate took out her phone, texting Rick while she walked to the waiting room,
'She just went back into surgery, they said it should be about an hour or so. Know when your flight will be?'
Not even five seconds after she sent the text her phone buzzed; Rick calling. She quickly answered, "She's doing ok, I promise. And they said they would come out and let me know as soon as they were done."
She heard him sigh in relief, "Thank you. I'm actually on my way to the airport now. I couldn't get a flight out until 9:30, which would put me there around 1:00 with the time change and everything…but I'm gonna go wait, maybe there will be something earlier, you never know."
"Yeah. I can't imagine how hard this is Rick but I promise I'm not going to leave her side. And the surgeon is great—he has 20 years of experience, he went to Harvard Med of all places, and he has a great record."
"How do you…" Rick asked confused then it dawned on him, "You called the precinct and had them do a background didn't you ?"
"I…well, he…"
"Kate…"
"Ok, I did but come on Rick—he's going to be cutting her open and it's Alexis and I…I had to make sure he was ok!" Kate defended.
Rick laughed, "I love you Kate."
"Yeah yeah," she mumbled as she sat in one of the chairs, "You think I'm crazy don't you?"
His voice turned serious, "No, I think that is the sweetest thing…I love you."
Kate smiled, "I love you too."
After a few moments of silence Rick spoke up, "Kate, when she…when she said she wanted me there I just, that broke my heart."
Kate sighed, "Mine too. I just feel so helpless Rick. I mean, I'm trying to convince her everything is ok but then she has tears in her eyes and says she just wants her dad and I couldn't give her that and I promised her I'm here and I'm not leaving but it's hard when you have a kid saying they want their dad because nothing can make that better and I can be here but I'm not you and she wants you and…"
Rick could tell she was getting worked up now. She had been strong for Alexis but she was worried about her too, and she had no one else there to talk to, "Hey Kate, its ok. Calm down."
She took a deep breath, "I was just so worried about her Rick. I know she'll be fine and it's just appendicitis but she was in so much pain and she was practically passed out when I found her and then she didn't want to come to the hospital because you weren't with her and I just…"
"Your right Kate," he interrupted, trying to calm her down, "she is going to be fine. And you got her there before anything bad could happen. And you're not me but she loves you, having you there will be enough for her." When she didn't respond Rick asked, "Are you ok?"
Kate let out a small laugh, "I'm supposed to be asking you that. You're the one that's half way across the country when his daughter is having surgery."
"But you're there all alone when she is having surgery."
"Yeah, but she's not my daughter..."
"But she wishes she was" He said quietly, remembering what Alexis had said that night Kate was comforting her and he was eavesdropping.
"I do to." She said and then slapped her hand to her forehead. She said that without thinking! It was the first thing that came to mind and even though it was true she shouldn't have said it. Alexis had a mother. Well, she had a Meredith who was technically her mother, although she didn't act like it-but it was still wrong for her to wish that. She had a mother…she did. She shouldn't have said it, "Oh my…Rick I'm sorry. I shouldn't have…"
"I take it back," he said softly.
"I…what?"
"That is the sweetest thing..."
"But I shouldn't…she…"
"Did you not mean it?"
"What! No! Of course not. I…God, I love her so much Rick you know that and I can't imagine loving my own kids any more than I love her it's just…"
He smiled. Yes, that was definitely the sweetest thing…. "Then what's the problem?"
"I'm not…I'm not her mom Rick. I can't just say things like that…Meredith is her mother.
"But she wants Meredith to be more like you."
"I…but…"
"Kate, do you remember what she said that night?"
"Yes." Did she remember? Was he kidding…that was the most wonderful thing anyone had said to her…of course she remembered.
"She wants you. And after everything that Meredith has done, I want her to have you too."
"Oh Rick I…" What were you supposed to say to that? A million things ran through her mind. "I...it...you know this would make Meredith so furious."
"Good," he replied without missing a beat.
"Rick!" she laughed, but sobered quickly. He wanted her to be a mother to his daughter—wow. "She has me, Rick." She continued softly.
"And I do too, right?" he asked seductively, and she could just hear his smirk over the phone.
"Really? Wow…way to ruin the moment." she said, trying to sound mad but failing as she could hardly stop from laughing. He knew she wasn't mad, this was quickly turning into emotional overload and she needed a little humor, "But just for the record…yes. You most definitely have me. You both do."
He smiled, "I'll give you whatever you want if you say that in front of Meredith." He said excitedly
"Richard!" she laughed again.
"A pony? Ohh…I'll sign all your books! Or what about a home gym?"
"As much as the thought of making Meredith jealous entices me after everything she's done…it might be good if the woman didn't absolutely hate me…at least any more than she already does."
"Kill joy" he muttered.
She laughed again, "Yes, being adult and mature is just so tough."
"You're tellin me." he mumbled and they both laughed. "You ok now." He asked gently after a few moments.
She smiled, "I'm ok. You?"
He sighed, "Yeah. Just anxious to get back. We just pulled up to the airport, text me as soon as they tell you anything."
"You know I will. Let me know if you get an earlier flight."
"Will do. Thanks again." He said sincerely.
"Anytime."
He smiled, "I can't wait to see you. I miss you."
She sighed, "I miss you too. I'll see you soon."
"I love you Kate."
"I love you too." They hung up and she smiled. The 'I love yous' came so easy now that she couldn't help wondering why it was so difficult to say in the first place. She went down to the cafeteria to get a cup of coffee then went back up to the lounge to wait. She sent a text to Javier letting him know what was going and then sent a text to Lanie, saying the same thing, and asking if she could swing by her place and grab her some clothes because she had since realized they rushed out and she was still in pajamas.
It seemed like forever but an hour later the doctor came out. She quickly jumped up to meet him and he met her with a reassuring smile, "Everything went just fine Ms. Beckett. We got her appendix out before it burst and there were no complications."
Kate let out a breath she hadn't realized she'd been holding. It was a routine procedure, she knew that…but it was Alexis. "Thank you so much. When can I see her?"
"Right now. She probably won't wake for another 30-45 minutes but you can sit with her in recovery if you like."
Kate quickly nodded and the doctor led her to Alexis' bed in recovery. When she saw her she smiled—she looked so much better already. They had been giving her fluids so she was less pale, and her face wasn't etched with pain. She turned to the doctor, "She looks so much better."
The doctor nodded, "It's amazing how people perk up once they get an IV. She was severely dehydrated when she came in…so that has made a world of difference right there. I assure you, she is going to be just fine."
Kate's smile got bigger, "Thank you so much Dr. Jones." He smiled and nodded his head before quietly exiting the room. Kate sat in the chair and kissed Alexis' cheek, "Hear that baby, everything went great and you are going to be just fine." She took out her phone to text Rick,
'She's out and in recovery. Everything went perfectly. Still asleep-should wake in about 45 min. She looks so much better.'
She immediately received a reply,
'Thank you so much. Text me when she wakes up. Got an earlier flight, boarding now and be there around noon-layover in Chicago. Give her a kiss for me.'
Kate smiled and leaned down to kiss Alexis' forehead, then text Rick back,
'Will do. That's great-keep us updated. And just did.'
'I will and thanks. Love you.'
'You too'
She put her phone back in her pocket and brushed Alexis' hair back from her forehead, "Your dad will be here soon, and boy is he anxious to see you."
40 minutes later Alexis started to stir. Kate quickly shut the magazine she was reading and grabbed Alexis' hand, "Lex…sweetie can you hear me?"
Alexis slowly opened her eyes, "Kate. Is it over?" she asked groggily.
Kate smiled, "Yeah baby it's over. It's over and everything went perfectly. How are you feeling?"
"Ok. My stomach doesn't hurt anymore and I'm not nauseous." Alexis said, obviously relieved.
"That's great Alexis." Kate said as a nurse walked over to them, seeing she was awake.
"Hi Alexis, how do you feel?"
"I feel ok. I'm not nauseous anymore and my side feels a lot better. I'm just sleepy."
The nurse smiled, "Good, good. And that's normal. You can rest if you want. I'm gonna go get the doctor and we'll get you moved to a room ok?"Alexis nodded closing her eyes.
"Thank you" Kate said to the nurse as she took out her phone to text Rick,
'Lex woke up feeling good. Resting again.'
"Are you texting dad?" Alexis asked tiredly.
"Yeah I am, he just wanted to know when you woke up."
Alexis nodded and closed her eyes again, "Tell him I'm ok and that I love him and can't wait for him to get here."
"Ok I will." Kate said, sending Rick another text,
'She told me to tell you she's ok, she loves you, and can't wait for you to get here.'
30 minutes later Alexis was settled in her own room and had been examined by the doctor. He assured Kate she was doing fine and left so Alexis could sleep.
Alexis woke up an hour later and saw Kate reading, "Kate."
Kate looked over the book and smiled at her, "Hey kid. How you feeling?"
Alexis smiled, "Ok actually. I feel a little sore but I guess what they are giving me is working because the pain isn't to to bad."
"Good," Kate said relieved.
"Yeah, and not having to throw up every five minutes is pretty nice."
Kate gave a soft laugh, "I'll bet." She said and brushed her hair back from Alexis' forehead, "And your fever is down." She said happily.
"Thanks for staying Kate."
"Alexis you couldn't get rid of me right now if you tried."
"Do you know when dad is gonna be here?"
"Yeah around noon. He hasn't text me back yet so I'm guessing he's in the air; he has a layover in Chicago."
"What time is it?"
Kate looked at her watch, "10:00"
"Still a few hours away." Alexis sighed.
Kate looked at Alexis' disappointed face. She hoped what she had to distract her would cheer her up. She smiled as she reached and grabbed the bag next to her, "Yes, but…until then I put together a hospital survival kit…"Alexis eyed her suspiciously and she began pulling out the objects one by one and setting them on the bed beside Alexis, "We have…cards-regular cards, UNO, SkipBo, Phase 10…we also have Mad Libs, word searches, crossword puzzles, and Sudoku. And…." Kate continued grabbing another bag from under her chair, "travel size monopoly, checkers, chess, and my personal favorite, connect four. And for when the doctor says it's ok" Kate went on, "a variety of Gatorades for you to choose from."
By the time Kate was done Alexis had the biggest smile on her face, "Kate this is…how did…?"
Kate shrugged, "I went down and raided the gift shop when you were sleeping; figured we'd need something to entertain ourselves until your dad got here." Truthfully, she knew Alexis would need a distraction, but entertainment was still kosher.
"This is so awesome Kate! Can I have a Gatorade?"
"We'll have to ask the doctor when he comes in ok? I'm not sure yet."
Alexis frowned but shook her head in understanding. Man, she really wanted that fruit punch Gatorade, "So…what game first?" she asked Kate.
"That's up to you."
"Can we work on some crosswords?"
Kate smiled and nodded, grabbing the book and a pen.
30 minutes later the doctor walked in when they were laughing.
"I told you that was right!" Kate said proudly.
"Oh you so didn't know that! It was a guess and you're just happy it fit!" Alexis quipped back before they both started laughing again.
"I like the sound in here," the doctor said to announce himself, smiling at the pair, "How are you feeling Alexis?"
"Can I have a Gatorade?" Alexis asked immediately, to the amusement of both adults who laughed.
"Tell you what, why don't I have a look at everything and then we'll see ok. So, I guess you're feeling ok?" He asked, looking through Alexis' chart.
Alexis nodded, "Yeah. I mean, I feel it and I'm a little sore but it's nothing unbearable so whatever pain medicine you're giving me is working. And I'm not nauseous anymore so that's really nice."
The doctor nodded while beginning his exam, "That's great Alexis."
10 minutes later when he completed his exam he smiled at Alexis, "You still want that Gatorade?"
"Really?" Alexis asked excitedly. The doctor nodded and Alexis eagerly held her hand out to Kate, "The fruit punch please!" Kate laughed and grabbed the fruit punch Gatorade from the bag and opened it before handing it to Alexis.
"Now, take it easy. I know it'll be hard but try not to chug it ok? Small sips." Alexis nodded at the doctor and took a few sips of the Gatorade, "Ok, now everything looks good. When is your dad getting here?"
Alexis looked at Kate and Kate looked at her watch before responding, "A couple hours."
The doctor nodded, "Ok, the nurses are going to be in and out keeping an eye on you but I'll come by when he's here to talk to y'all about when you can go home and all of that fun stuff."
"Please tell me that's tonight"
The doctor let out a slight laugh, "Not quite Alexis, but there weren't any complications so you won't have to stay to long, I promise."
Alexis nodded and they said there goodbye's and Kate and Alexis went back to their crossword.
30 minutes later they had switched to Uno when Kate's phone buzzed in her pocket; a text from Rick,
'Thank God. Is she awake now? How is she feeling? In Chicago on layover.'
Kate smiled, "Your dads in Chicago."
Alexis' face lit up, "Can I call him?"
"Course," Kate nodded and pressed the speed dial to call Ricks number then quickly handed the phone to Alexis.
"Kate hey. How is she feeling?"
"I'm fine daddy." Alexis said smiling, obviously happy to talk to her dad.
"Hey pumpkin! I'm so glad to talk to you! You're feeling ok?"
"Yes so much better. My side isn't throbbing anymore and the pain medicine they are giving me is great. I'm sore and I feel it but it isn't really bad. The doctor was here about half an hour ago and said things were fine, and I haven't thrown up and I'm not nauseous so that is a relief. I got to have Gatorade; Kate got me a ton. Oh, and she got a ton of games dad! She got card games and word searches and stuff and travel games—we're playing Uno now."
Rick smiled and chuckled at his daughter's excitement. Kate really was extraordinary. He couldn't believe she did that. Well, ok, he could…but still, it was amazing, "That sounds awesome Alexis. I'm so glad to hear that. I'm really sorry I'm not there."
"Me too, but I'm ok dad, really. Kate has been keeping me occupied. When do you get here, though?"
"Looks like I'll be there around 12:30 so I'll be there soon"
"Ok, I can't wait to see you daddy."
"Me too sweetheart, me too. And when you get home we will have Star Wars and Harry Potter marathons galore, with your choice of ice cream."
"That sounds great dad. Kate too?"
"She's always welcome pumpkin. She knows that, so of course she can. But, you'd have to check with her. I don't know if she has to work. Since I'm not there I don't know what cases are going on really, but I'm sure she'd love to." Rick said.
"Yeah…I…well never… maybe, we'll see…" Alexis said hesitantly. Kate was eyeing Alexis curiously but Alexis quickly changed topics, asking her dad about his latest book tour adventure.
A few minutes later he regretfully said he had to board and asked if he could say a quick goodbye to Kate. Alexis handed Kate the phone, "Hey Rick."
"Kate, hey. She sounds great."
"Yeah she looks so much better. She isn't as pale and she's laughing," Kate said, smiling at Alexis. "Her fever is down too."
"That's great. We're about to board but I just wanted to say a quick hi. I'll take a cab to the hospital, what room number are you guys in?"
"325"
"Ok, I'll see you guys in a couple hours."
"We can't wait."
"Me neither. Love you guys."
"We love you too, Rick. Bye."
"Bye."
When she hung up the phone she looked at Alexis, "Ok Lex, what was 'Kate too?'"
"Nothing, let's play." Her dad was probably right, but she still didn't want to ask Kate. She wasn't afraid she just…ok well maybe she was. She just didn't know if she should ask something like that...Kate had done enough.
"No Lex, what was it?"
"Kate, it was…never mind. You're losing and I am going to take you down—let's finish this game so I can beat you already."
Kate eyed her again and then sighed. She'd get it out of Rick later but for now, she just needed to distract Alexis. "Ok kid, you're on. Get ready to lose."
2 hours later Rick came running through the door and Alexis dropped her cards, "Daddy!" she practically screamed and Rick ran over to hug his daughter and smother her with kisses as he whispered comforting words to her. Kate smiled at the two of them and admired the scene for a moment before deciding to give them some time alone. She snuck out quietly and went to the cafeteria to get two cups of coffee since she was sure Rick needed one too. She took her time and 10 minutes later walked through the door to find Alexis asleep, Rick holding her hand. He smiled at her and got up, motioning her outside. She nodded and set the coffees down before they walked outside, quietly shutting the door behind them.
As soon as the door shut Rick wrapped her in a tight hug, "God, it's good to see you." He sighed.
She took a deep breath and hugged him back as tight as she could, "You too. I really missed you." She said softly
He pulled back to look at her, "I missed you too." He said before quickly bringing her in for a kiss. When they broke apart he smiled and rested his forehead against hers, "Hi" he said.
"Hi yourself" she laughed, "Welcome back."
"It's good to be back." He said and he took her hand and led her to the chairs at the end of the hallway.
"I figured she would pass out soon. She's been fighting it for the last 20 minutes—wanted to see you before she fell asleep again."
He shook his head, chuckling at his daughter. "Yeah she didn't last long. Kate, I know I said this but thank you so much for taking care of her and distracting her when I was gone and getting her Gatorade and games and just…everything. You're just…amazing."
"Again…you are very welcome. It was no problem." She smiled, "but I'm really glad you're here."
She added the last part quietly and he brought her into another hug, "Me too." They stayed like that for a few minutes, just holding each other, until Rick spoke up, "I have to call Meredith and tell her," he sighed.
"Oh Rick, I'm sorry. I didn't think, I should have called her! I'm so sorry I…"
"Hey," he said pulling back to look at her, "You had more important things to do, like looking after my daughter."
"I know…but I still should have thought to call her, I just…"
"I don't really want to talk to her either," Rick finished for her, "But it's her daughter and she has a right to know."
Kate nodded in agreement, "Is she gonna want to come out here?"
Rick shrugged his shoulders, "I don't know. I don't want to see her but I am hoping she will for Alexis you know? I mean, her kid just had surgery, she should come see her."
Kate sighed, "Is Alexis going to be upset if she doesn't come?"
"I really don't know," Rick sighed as well, "I would like to say no because she knows to expect that stuff from Meredith, and I think that helps but I…it still…your mom not coming after you have surgery? I, I think that will be upsetting even if you expect it."
"Yeah…God Rick I wish, I wish I could fix that for her."
He took her hand, "You do. You do fix it for her. You fix it by being there for her when Meredith isn't. Like today, like a few weeks ago." Kate shook her head and Rick tugged on her hand, "You do Kate, you make it better. You help her more than you know."
"And yet she still won't talk to me." Kate sighed.
"What?"
"Earlier…when you were talking to Alexis, she said something and then 'and Kate too?' I asked her what that was and she wouldn't tell me. I know it's something but she just insisted it was nothing and I didn't want to push it because well, you know, she just had surgery. But she wouldn't tell me what it was."
Ricks turn to sigh again, "We were talking about a movie day."
"A movie day?"
"Yeah. I told her as soon as I got her home we would camp out and have a Star Wars and Harry Potter movie marathon with all the ice cream she could eat and, she asked 'Kate too?' She wants you there and I told her I was sure you would love to but she'd have to ask you because I wasn't sure about work and stuff and then she kind of got weird and then got me on stories from the tour."
"Why wouldn't she ask me?" Kate said in disbelief, "She knows she can ask me anything why…why wouldn't she?" Rick looked away from her and got fidgety, "Rick, come on. Why wouldn't she just ask me that. She knows I would say yes right?"
"I…I don't…she just…" Rick stuttered.
"You know Rick. I know you know. What is it? Is it something I said? I thought I made it clear she could…"
"No, no Kate it's, it's not you at all."
"Then what? Rick please just tell me." She said grabbing his hands.
"It's my fault, I…I mentioned work." Kate looked at him confused so he continued, "I told her you would love to but she'd have to ask you because I didn't know your work schedule since I wasn't there…"
"Yeah…" Kate said slowly, obviously still not understanding what the problem was.
"Kate, Meredith has ALWAYS put work above Alexis. If she had a role, that was the most important thing—she didn't care what she missed with Alexis, work was more important."
"So," Kate continued for him, "When you mentioned work Alexis assumed that would come first and I wouldn't take a day to be with her? She thought I might say no." Rick nodded, "Oh Rick I…that is just…no. That is so wrong I…"
"I know," Rick smiled
"But Alexis doesn't." he nodded again, "But I mean…I'm here today. Doesn't that make her realize…"
"Kate, she was in so much pain this morning then she had surgery and then you did a really good job of distracting her." Kate smiled and he continued, "She wasn't thinking it was a weekday."
Kate nodded, "Ok yeah, that makes sense."
"And…when she does realize you missed work, she is going to think you already missed a day and you probably wouldn't miss anymore. Then she really wouldn't want to ask you to take another day just to watch movies with us."
Kate's jaw dropped, "What? But I…I have…days…vacation. I can…God I have to tell her I can stay as long as she wants me to. I don't care how many…"
"Kate," he stopped her, "She has to do it on her own."
"But she…"
"I know, and it kills me too Kate but she would really kill me if she knew I told you this. We can hint that you would like to spend a day with us, I'll say something about our marathon movie day and you can say 'oh that sounds great I would love to do that' or something. Hopefully…that would tell her you would say yes and she'll ask you."
Kate let out a heavy sigh, "I really really do not like Meredith right now."
Rick chuckled, "Oh me neither."
"I just…how can someone do that to their kid?"
"I don't know" Rick said softly.
"Because your right, she isn't going to come, and even though Alexis won't expect her to its still going to hurt her but she'll try to hide it and say she doesn't care and I just want to tell Meredith that she…"
"I know it makes me mad too Kate."
Kate looked in his eyes and saw the strain of the day, and this conversation, "I'm sorry Rick I shouldn't…you know this and I'm…"
"You have no idea how much this means to me." he interrupted.
"How much what means to you?"
"How much you care about my kid. Do you have any idea how much it means to me that you care about her so much that the thought of somebody hurting her hurts you? That you're willing to fight for her and stand up for her…even if it is against her own mother. It…that means the world to me Kate."
"I…"
"It kills me that Meredith does this to her…"
"Rick..."
"But," he continued, "Seeing how much you care about her? You have no idea..."
Kate tugged on the hand he was still holding and put her other hand behind his head, bringing him to her gently for a kiss. "I love you both," Kate said when they broke apart, "I love you both so much."
"We love you too," he said before kissing her again.
When he pulled back he sighed, "I better go call Meredith."
Kate nodded, "I'll go sit with Lex."
"Thank you."
They walked to the room and quietly entered. Rick gave his daughter a kiss on the forehead and grabbed the coffee Kate had got, and then went out to call Meredith. Kate got her coffee and sat in the chair next to the bed, grabbing the Sudoku. 15 minutes later Rick walked in and had to suppress a laugh at Kate, lip between her teeth in concentration; she didn't even notice him walking in she was concentrating so much. He walked up and put a gentle hand on her shoulder, "Hey" he whispered.
She turned and gave him a smile, "Hey." She whispered back.
"She's out." he gestured toward his daughter.
"Hasn't moved. Poor kid's gotta be exhausted, I don't think she was asleep an hour before she started getting sick." He nodded and pulled another chair to sit next to her. Kate looked at him expectantly, "And?" she asked softly. He just shook his head and sadly looked at his daughter. Kate took his hand, "Oh Rick, I…I'm so sorry."
"It's just…I expect it but it still surprises me how she can do this to her." Kate squeezed his hand, "She said they were in the middle of shooting and she couldn't leave but she would TRY to call. TRY to call? What is that? Her daughter has surgery and she can't even say she'll call her? And Alexis is going to ask about her mom and I have to tell her she's too busy working?"
Kate sighed and ran her other hand up and down his arm to comfort him. Next time she talked to Meredith the woman so had it coming, "But she has you," she reassured, "She'll be fine because she has you."
"And you." He said finally looking up at her.
Kate smiled and squeezed his arm, "and me." She agreed.
Rick sighed and looked at his daughter, "I'm just…I know she's mad at Meredith right now but she is still going to want her here after this. I mean, it's her mom."
"I know" she responded sadly, taking the hand she was holding and threading her fingers through his.
He looked back at her, "Any chance you think she won't ask?"
"I…" Kate didn't know what to say. She wanted to say yes, of course there is. She probably won't ask. She won't care that her mother isn't gonna be here…but that wasn't the truth. She sighed and ran her other hand over his cheek, "I don't know, Rick. Maybe? She was furious with her but like you said, it…it's still her mom."
"Well I can hope right?" he asked, although she could hear the disbelief in his voice.
"Yeah Rick you… we can hope." He nodded, not looking away from his daughter. He just looked at her with so much sadness and regret. She wanted to fix it, she…she had to do something. "Hey," she said tugging on his hand until he looked at her. She stood up and sat down on his lap, wrapping her arms around his neck. "It's going to be ok you know. She'll be ok." He just wrapped his arms around her waist, holding her tighter and not saying a word. She rested her head on top of his and held him close, trying to comfort him.
They stayed like that until they heard shuffling from Alexis' bed 10 minutes later. Kate quickly stood up and sat back down in her chair right before Alexis opened her eyes. "Dad!" she exclaimed, obviously still excited Rick was there, even though she'd already seen him.
Rick smiled and took her hand, "Hey pumpkin, have a nice little snooze?"
Alexis nodded, "Yeah." She looked over at Kate, "Kate, your still here?"
Kate looked at Rick then back at Alexis, "Of course, honey. Where else would I be? I said I'd be staying."
"Yeah but dad's here now, I figured you would have to go to work."
"I have plenty of vacation time Alexis, I might as well use it right?"
"Yeah but I'm sure you're busy and have a lot to do and…"
"Alexis" she interrupted, "I'm never too busy for you, do you understand me."
"I…that's…thanks Kate. I…I'm really glad you're here."
Kate smiled and brushed some hair back from Alexis forehead, "I'm here for as long as you want me to be."
"Thank you." Alexis smiled, "speaking of…" she looked at her father, "I know you're mad at mom dad, and I am too but would…would it be ok if she came to visit? I just kinda wanted…" Alexis stopped when she saw the look on her father's face. Rick gave Kate a heartbreaking look that clearly said 'what do I do?' Kate sighed and looked between him and Alexis. He turned back to his daughter and opened his mouth to speak but quickly closed it. He didn't know what to say, and he didn't want to do this. Turns out, Alexis knew him to well and said it for him, "You already talked to her didn't you?" Alexis asked and he just nodded, "And you…she's busy working isn't she? Can I at least talk to her?"
"I…Alexis she…" he started but she stopped him again.
"She said she would 'try and call' right?"
"Well. I…Sweetheart I'm…"
"Don't dad." She said quickly, leaning back against the pillows, staring straight ahead at the white wall, "just don't, please. Don't say you're sorry."
Rick looked at Kate, giving her a 'help me' look. She sighed, laying a hand on Alexis' shoulder, "Sweetie, I…"
"Kate! I said don't." Alexis said. Although she said it quietly, Kate could hear the bite behind it, "I'm just going to sleep ok. I'm really tired." Alexis said, still staring at the wall.
Rick stuttered, "I…Lex…"
Alexis finally turned to her father and he and Kate could tell she was fighting tears, "Daddy please. Can I…could you guys leave, just for a little bit, so I could sleep?"
Rick sighed, "Ok pumpkin, we'll let you sleep." He said. Both he and Kate stood up and they each gave her a kiss on the forehead, "We love you Alexis."
"Love you guys too," Alexis sighed. "Dad?" she said quickly as he reached for the doorknob.
He dropped his hand and turned around, "Yeah, Lex?"
"Just…just don't go too far ok?"
Rick smiled, "We'll be right down the hall in the lounge if you need us sweetie." Alexis nodded and rolled onto her good side, away from them.
As soon as they shut the door and started walking down the hall Kate went off, "Rick since this started she hasn't wanted me to leave her and all she kept asking about was when you would get here and that she wanted her dad. And now you're here and she just wants us to leave her alone!? And you agreed? She obviously wasn't going to sleep; the kid was almost in tears. We should go talk to her." She said.
She turned around to start walking back to the room but Rick grabbed her hand to stop her, "Kate, wait." Kate turned to him with a questioning look and he sighed, "she needs some time and you know better than anyone that it isn't good to push people."
"Yeah but I also know that sometimes people need that push." She said quietly. She was infinitely glad Rick pushed to help her, although that isn't always how she felt at the time, and damn it if she wasn't going to do the same to make sure Alexis was ok.
Rick squeezed her hand, knowing she was talking about her, "Your right," he said gently, "but sometimes it's a good idea to give people a little space before you do the pushing…" He saw her struggling, her need to take care of his daughter over what she knew was right, "You know I'm right Kate. If we push her right now without giving her some time she would just get more angry and upset. She just needs a little time. Then we'll go check on her."
Kate let out a deep breath, "Your right. I know your right I just…God, did you see her face Rick? It just…I'm so sorry."
He pulled her into a hug, "I am too." After they stood there for a minute he pulled back, "Come on, let's go sit down."
They walked down to the lounge at the end of the hall and once they were seated Rick took Kate's hand, "I hate this Kate." She didn't say anything because, what could you say? Nothing she would say could make this better. She just squeezed his hand. "I hate it," he continued, "and I hate that I'm the one that has to do it to her and see her hurt and upset when Meredith just has no clue. I mean, I don't know what to do anymore Kate. I try and tell her she's hurting her daughter and that Alexis needs her mother but it's like no matter how many times I try to tell her it just goes in one ear and out the other and I don't know what to do. I'm her dad, I'm supposed to be able to make everything better. I'm supposed to be able to fix everything for her but I…I can't fix this."
"Want me to sick the boys on her?" Rick gave a small smile so Kate continued, "I'm serious! They find out Meredith's not treating Alexis right she is doomed. You know how they are when it comes to Alexis; they'll go all big brother on her ass." Rick let out a slight laugh and Kate smiled. Good, a laugh—that's what she was going for. Before she could say more her phone buzzed…speak of the devil, "Espo," she told Rick before he could ask, then answered her phone.
"Hey Javi,"
"Hey boss, how's little castle doing?"
Rick motioned to Kate that he was going to the vending machines. She nodded as she answered Esposito, "The surgery went well and there were no complications."
"That's great. Did your boy make it back yet?"
"Yeah he's back."
"I'm glad. Is the deep fried twinkie there?"
"Uh…no she, she's working and can't make it." Kate said sadly, looking at Rick down the hall who was putting money in the machine.
"What! Her kid has surgery and she's too busy?" Espo asked in disbelief.
"I know….she said she would try and call."
"Try and…what is she kidding me? Try and call?"
"I know…"Kate repeated. It was adorable how protective they were of Alexis.
"Is…is Lex ok?"
"No" Kate answered honestly, "Not really…"
She heard Javier sigh on the other end of the phone, "That woman is asking for it."
Kate let out a light chuckle, "Right?"
"Look, Lanie and Ryan and I wanted to come by to see Lex after work…do you think she'd be up to it?"
"Yeah I'm sure she would love that Espo…it might cheer her up."
"Oh we'll cheer her up, just wait."
Kate smiled, she loved her friends. "Well that would be great."
"Ok…so I'm almost afraid to say this but we should be out of here by 5:00 today…so we'll see you guys around 5:30?"
"Sounds perfect. We're in 325," Kate replied as Rick walked back and sat next to her, handing her a bag of pretzels. She mouthed a 'thank you' as she opened them.
"Ok. And tell Castle all he has to do is say the word and Ryan and I will have a little 'chat' with Meredith."
Kate laughed as she looked at Rick, who now looked thoroughly confused, "I'll make sure he knows that."
"Good, see you later Beckett."
"Bye."
"Ok what will you 'make sure that I know?'" Rick asked, amused.
"That all you have to do is ask and Espo and Ryan would love to have a 'chat' with your ex-wife. He asked if she was here and when I said no…well, you got the rest."
Rick smiled, "they're good guys."
"Yeah. They're gonna come by with Lanie around 5:30 to visit Alexis."
"Great. Maybe that'll cheer her up."
Kate nodded and lifted her pretzels, "Thanks for these," she said. "I didn't realize how hungry I was. What time is it?" she asked, shoving another fistful of pretzels in her mouth.
Rick laughed at how fast she was eating. "It's past lunchtime. Almost 1:30."
"No wonder…"
"Would you like me to run and get something for us? I'm pretty hungry too."
Kate shook her head, "You don't have to do that Rick, there's a cafeteria downstairs."
Rick chuckled, "Yeah, and as appetizing as hospital cafeteria food sounds…I think I'd rather go grab us something."
"Well, can't argue with you there..." she chuckled back.
"What do you feel like? I saw a Subway down the road."
"Subway's fine. You know what I like."
Rick nodded and she reached to get money out of her back pocket. When she went to hand it to him he looked at her like she had grown two heads, "Your joking right?"
Kate just rolled her eyes and put her money back in her pocket, "Fine. You think I should go sit with Alexis?"
"Yeah…just…make sure she's ok? I'll be back soon."
Kate gave him a smile, "I will." They stood up and she gave him a quick kiss before they went their separate ways.
When she walked into the room Alexis was still facing the wall. When she heard the door open Alexis gently turned and let out a shaky breath, "Hey Kate," she said softly.
Kate walked over and sat at the edge of the bed, one leg under her and one hanging off the bed. She brushed the tears off of Alexis' cheeks, "I'm so sorry Alexis," Kate whispered, "I'm so so sorry."
"I don't know why I even care, I mean, I'm still mad at her for everything and I don't really even want her to come but I…I kinda just wanted to at least talk to her. But I'm mad at her..." Alexis sighed, "I don't know why I care," she repeated. "It's not even that I really want to see or talk to her. It's just the point that I'm not important enough to her for her to take time to even talk to, you know?"
"I know," Kate said gently. "I'm so sorry." Apparently she couldn't come up with anything better to say.
"Me too."
Kate took a deep breath, "Alexis you…your mom's priorities may be all wrong, but that doesn't mean she doesn't love you and it doesn't mean you're not important to her." Alexis just nodded and then silence overcame the room.
"I'm mad" Alexis said, suddenly breaking the silence a few minutes later.
"I bet; you should be. I'm mad too, I'm really mad."
Alexis gave her a small smile; she couldn't figure out why she hadn't asked Kate about the movie day earlier. Kate hadn't left her side all day, except when she asked her too. She had helped her get ready for her date, and had movie nights with her, and listened to her, and got mad when her mom hurt her. She was being ridiculous—this was Kate. This wasn't her mom…it was Kate. Kate she could trust. Kate she could count on. Kate would be there if she asked.
Suddenly her smile got bigger and Kate looked at her confused, "Alexis?"
"Kate, will you have a movie day with me and dad once I get to go home?"
"I…" Kate was taken aback. She hadn't been expecting that, but she quickly recovered, "Alexis I would love to, that sounds like a lot of fun." Kate smiled at her and leaned down to give her a kiss her on the forehead.
"Hey, where's dad?" She asked a few minutes later.
They talked for a while and 10 minutes later Rick came in with the food, quickly dropping it on one of the chairs and walking to the far side of the bed opposite Kate, "Hey pumpkin, you doing ok?"
Alexis smiled as her dad gave her a hug, "I am. I feel a lot better. And Kate's gonna have a movie day with us when I finally get out of this joint."
Kate laughed, "And you are going to get to pick any movies you want, you'll be waited on like a queen, and I'm pretty sure we can talk your dad into picking us up whatever we want to eat."
She looked over a Rick who was just staring at her smiling and giving her this look. Why was he looking at her like…oh…oh Alexis had asked her. She just gave him a soft smile and winked.
Rick looked at Kate and she just gave him a wink.
He just shook his head, keeping her gaze, "Alexis, right now you guys could probably talk me into just about anything."
Kate smiled at him before turning to Alexis, "Oh, Alexis, we can use this!"
Alexis, catching on, smiled at Kate, "You're right! What should we ask for? Spa day?"
Kate continued, "Season tickets to the Mets games?"
"Ooohhh you're thinking big, I like it. You know…I will be getting my driver's license soon…I'll need a car. Or maybe use of the ferrari?"
"My bike could use a spruce up…" Kate added.
"Ok, you two, you ruined it," Rick pouted. Both girls laughed and Kate gave Alexis a thumbs up.
Alexis smiled and looked at her dad, "Ok so we'll give you a break on that stuff…but we are watching Star Wars first!"
He laughed, "You got it pumpkin." He gave his daughter a kiss on the forehead and then walked over to get their sandwiches, taking them out of the bag and handing Kate hers.
They chatted and ate their sandwiches and 20 minutes later the doctor came in, "Mr. Castle, glad to meet you. I'm Dr. Jones."
Rick quickly stood up and shook the doctors hands, "Rick. Thank you for taking care of my daughter."
Dr. Jones smiled, "Just doing my job, she's been a great patient. And I'm happy to tell you everything went well. I'm gonna check you out again Alexis but if all goes well you should be able to go home in a day or two."
15 minutes later the doctor left, having told them that Alexis should be good to go home the day after tomorrow if things kept progressing the way they were. The rest of the afternoon was passed playing chess and checkers; Kate being the reigning champ of their tournament-much to Rick's dismay. He was such a sore loser, even against a sick child.
Around 5:45 Javier, Kevin, and Lanie knocked on the open door and walked in. When Alexis saw what they were holding her face broke out in the biggest smile Kate had seen since this started; Javier was holding a vase full of beautiful and colorful flowers, Ryan had a big thing of chocolates, and Lanie was holding a huge teddy bear that was holding a heart that said 'I love you' with a purple and yellow balloon attached to its wrist that had a smiley face on it and said, 'Get well soon.'
"Oh my gosh you guys," Alexis said shocked, "What is all this?"
"What? You get cut open and we can't bring you stuff?" Javier huffed sarcastically.
Lanie walked straight to Alexis' bed, sat the teddy bear next to her and gave her a hug and a kiss on the forehead, "How you feeling honey?"
"A little sore but ok. Much better now," she smiled as they pulled back to look at each other.
Lanie smiled and gave her shoulder a quick squeeze, "I'm glad."
Alexis picked up the bear, "He is so cute! Thank you! And oohh," she added when she saw the chocolate Ryan was holding, "is that chocolate? Can I have some?" She asked looking at Lanie.
Everyone laughed at Alexis' excitement, "Not just yet sweetie, but soon," Lanie assured.
"Lanie! But I've had the Gatorade and been fine! And I don't feel nauseous! Come on, just one won't hurt right?"
Lanie had to try hard not to laugh at the young girl and keep her 'doctor' face on, "Have you had anything OTHER than Gatorade?"
"Well…no, but…"
Lanie shook her head, "No but's young lady. You have to introduce more liquids before you have candy; and you need to give your system some time to heal. You do realize you just had surgery this morning right?"
"Yes…but I'm fiiiiine!" Alexis said
This time Lanie did laugh, "And we're all so glad for that, but the answer is still no."
Alexis turned on her best pouty face, "Daddy? Please."
Rick held up his hands, "Sorry pumpkin, I'm not the doctor here. You need to listen to Lanie."
The boys laughed as Lanie humphed triumphantly, "Good decision writer-boy."
"Hey," he defended, "I know better than to go up against you-I don't have a death wish. Sorry Alexis, that face is hard to resist but she has medical tools—sharp medical tools." He said pointing at Lanie.
Everyone laughed and Alexis conceded, "Fine. Thank you Kevin…I'll eat them as soon as they'll let me."
Kevin smiled and set the chocolates on the little table next to the flowers Javier brought, "there's even chocolate covered cherries."
"Dude" Javier slapped Ryan's shoulder and Lanie glared at him, "not helping."
"Oh right, sorry Lex." Ryan said sheepishly.
Alexis laughed, "It's fine. Thank you. And thank you for the flowers Javi they're gorgeous!"
"Anytime." He smiled. He looked around the room and spotted all the games, "looks like you guys have been having fun."
Alexis nodded, "Yeah, except for getting my butt whopped by Kate. She's the chess champ right now."
Javier raised an eyebrow, "Oh is she now? I may just have to challenge that Beckett, I am a superior chess player."
Kate glared at him. "You're on Esposito."
"I'd watch it Javier, she didn't even have mercy on my sick child," Rick stage whispered.
Kate rolled her eyes and wacked his chest, "oh shut it. You're just a sore loser."
"That was an illegal move!" he defended.
"It was not!" Kate and Alexis said at once, clearly exasperated. Rick crossed his arms and pouted.
Kate rolled her eyes and then looked at Javi, "So, you in?"
"Oh it's on Beckett…" Javier said going to set the board up at the table.
And your thoughts are...?