3.
Beckett looked up and saw the sign of the restaurant later in the evening.
"Porter's?" Beckett said with amazement.
"What do you think," said Castle, "I hope this is okay, it was Alexis' idea."
Alexis smiled at Beckett, "It's the place where you and I talked last year, when you convinced me to come home."
Beckett placed an arm around her step-daughter's shoulder, "I remember. This is just the right place for a night like tonight."
After finishing a hearty meal with fruit and chocolate almond tarts for desert Castle and Alexis both each handed Martha and Beckett some cards.
Beckett opened the one from Castle first. Most of what he had written was sweet with a couple dirty jokes that she hoped would be used later.
She then opened the card from Alexis. It was clearly Mother's Day card that was for such an occasion and then she silently began reading:
Kate.
Beckett noticed her name was scratched out and in place was a different word.
Mom,
Hope that's an okay word to use. I know I haven't used it out loud but as my dad and you more than know, writing is sometimes the best way to express how we feel and that to me feels like the right word to describe you.
Not only have you made dad and grams happy but you've made me happy as well. I've loved having you in my life. You have been a great friend and mentor over the years and have been there for me in ways that others in my life haven't.
I will always have my mom but the coolest thing now is that I've got two and more importantly I've got one here at home now.
Thank you for always being there for me, for being my north star when I've needed a guiding light.
I love you, Mom.
Love,
Alexis
Beckett could feel the tears in her eyes as she looked at her daughter and smiled.
"Come here," she said to the young girl.
Alexis smiled and the two of them stood up and hugged.
"I love you, Alexis," Beckett said to her.
"I love you too, mom."