Miracle at the 12th Precinct
Chapter 23
Title: Put A Little Holiday In Your Heart (Sung by LeAnn Rhimes)
Disclaimer: The characters from Castle, of course belong to ABC. The others are the product of my ingesting too much caffeine.
Previously: An explosion, shootings, kidnappings, corruption, hit-men, cops, and feds. Oh, and just to round things off…Santa Claus.
XXXXXXXXXX
Castle's loft…Breakfast with Santa…
"Ricky, this is delightful! What did you say you call it again?" Kris asked.
"A smorelette. It's pretty great, right?" Pride shone in his eyes. "I knew you'd like it! Though I'll never understand why the women in my life can't seem to appreciate its merits."
"Well, that leaves more for us then now, doesn't it?" Kris said, unsuccessfully attempting to wipe the remnants of chocolate from his beard with a napkin. "Where is everyone else, by the way?"
"The ladies are still asleep. Dig in, Kris – there's plenty more where that came from."
"Brilliant!"
Despite his sunny disposition, the dark circles under Kris' eyes left Rick wondering if the man was more affected from remembering the details of his friend Timmy's shooting than he'd let on. "So, how are you really doing?" Castle hedged. "Did you get much sleep?"
"Honestly, not as much as I would have liked. Recalling the grisly details of that night was hard, however I am grateful to find my memory returning. Hopefully, this means my powers will soon return as well. But you needn't worry about me, Ricky, I'll work through this. As I've always said, it's best to face life's challenges head on. We must focus our energy on apprehending those dreadful men, taking them off the streets so they cannot harm another soul."
"How about the credit card skimmer? Have you remembered anything more about how it could have found its way into your suit?"
"Not yet, but I'm hoping it will come to me soon." He said, frustrated. "It's like when there's something on the tip of your tongue, but then it gets away from you - quite disconcerting, having parts of your memory taken from you." He suddenly perked up. "I was thinking perhaps we might try hypnosis! I read once that doctors have had great success with treatments of that kind."
"Actually, that's not a bad idea. I'll talk to Beckett about it." Rick replied. "Although it may not be necessary. She sent the device down to the lab for analysis last night. The results might provide some clues." He said, hopefully.
"I do hope you're right."
"Don't worry, Kris. The answers will eventually come to light. They always do." Rick glanced at his watch. "Hey, it's getting late. Maybe I should wake Kate and Holly?" He stared at the counter taking in the copious amounts of food he'd made. He may have been overly enthusiastic. "It looks like a Vegas buffet in here. Someone's got to eat all this."
"Let them sleep, Ricky. The food will keep. And the rest will do them both good. It's been a very trying few days. Poor Katie's been burning the candle at both ends and Holly's been so very worried about her Tommy."
"Ah, yes. Elf-girl and Elf-boy. I've been meaning to ask you, what's the story with those two crazy kids anyway?"
"I presume you mean Holly and Tommy?"
"Yes, Holly, the street-wise, jaded, misunderstood girl from the hood and Tommy, the rebel-elf from the wrong side of the pole."
"Well, that is one perspective, I suppose." Kris chuckled. "But I tell you, they're the real deal those two."
"Do you think she's been completely honest with us about what she knows?" Rick asked.
"I do. She's a good girl, with a good heart. And believe me when I tell you, I've seen naughty." He couldn't help but notice Castle's raised brows. "Oh, I realize she may appear somewhat rough around the edges, but she's actually quite sweet once you get to know her."
"I'll have to take your word for it."
Kris frowned disapprovingly and Castle quickly back-pedaled. "I'm sure you're right and she's really a very nice girl, but come on, Kris, even you have to admit she carries a fairly large chip on her shoulder. And one can't help but notice her hearty dislike of law enforcement…and those that assist them - especially those that assist them."
"Ah, well, as there often is, there's a perfectly good explanation for that. You see, she had a very difficult time growing up. Her parents both died in a terrible car accident when she was quite young and the police never brought forward those responsible. Holly's been bounced from foster home to foster home over the years. Why she practically raised herself. I tell you, it wasn't easy for her, especially with her being such a tall girl. Much as it pains me to admit, children can sometimes be quite cruel. It's why I came up with the idea of coal. True story. Anyway, it's really to her credit she turned out as well as she did. She's got a lot of spirit, that one. I do wish you'd give her a chance, Ricky. She's understandably slow to trust but very protective of those she loves; especially when it comes to her Tommy."
"I promise to try. For you." Rick said, despite lingering doubts. "Please don't take this the wrong way, but they seem a rather unusual pairing."
"On the contrary...I believe they're perfect for each other. Oh, I realize on the outside people may only see their obvious differences; Holly's quite..."
"Mortal?" Rick said.
"Yes, there is that, however, I was going to say 'statuesque'. Mortality won't be an issue. I've still got a few old tricks up my sleeve." Kris winked. "As for Tommy, while outwardly he may be a diminutive elf, I've always known that boy is a diamond in the rough. He simply needs to grow up. And the love of a good woman is just what the doctor ordered. And let us not forget, size doesn't always matter."
Rick nearly injured himself suppressing the obvious snappy retort, but Kris continued, oblivious to his pain. "I'll see them married yet, I will. They're quite compatible. Sadly, they've also very similar upbringings. Tommy's father abandoned him when he was quite young and as for his mother's influence," He visibly shuddered. "I dare say my sister-in-law, Breanna is, how can I put this tactfully…not exactly the motherly type." He paused a beat. "Oh, who's kidding whom, the woman's a complete and utter nightmare. I count my blessings every day, I had the good sense to pick the right sister."
"Really?" Castle replied, his curiosity piqued to hear the rest of that story. So many questions, so little time.
"My boy, you've no idea. The woman's a master manipulator, however, I seem to be the only one immune. She even has her own sister half-snowed." Kris nodded. "Now, where was I? Oh, yes… Holly and Tommy. They're very much in love. He would do anything for her, and she him. They make a wonderful team. And I think you and I might know a thing or two on the importance of having the right partner. Wouldn't you agree?"
"On that, Kris, I couldn't agree with you more." Rick raised his coffee mug, as did Kris. "To partners", they toasted.
XXXXXXX
Holly awakened and adjusted herself to the unfamiliar surroundings. Slowly she remembered where she was; held temporarily captive at the home of author, Richard Castle until the police could round up the Mangosas and their goons. After her apartment was ransacked she'd been persuaded by Kris to remain under police protection until they found the men responsible. It could be worse, she thought, scanning the tastefully decorated bedroom so much nicer than her own at home. With its feminine touches she assumed the room belonged to Castle's daughter.
She climbed out of bed taking a moment to admire the pajamas Castle had given her. She had to admit he was very generous. He hardly knew her, yet had gone out of his way to make her feel comfortable in his home. She'd been worried about getting stuck with wearing the hideous work costume she'd arrived in, but almost magically Castle had managed to have a couple of outfits delivered right to his front door.
Rick Castle was certainly an interesting man, and thinking back, one who she'd perhaps misjudged. After seeing him with Detective Beckett, it had become crystal clear he only had eyes for his beautiful detective. She'd obviously been wrong about him ogling her chest the day they'd first met at Macy's. He'd merely been curious about her ridiculous costume which, of course, she knew she should be used to by now. She could also admit to herself there were times when she might rightfully be accused of prematurely jumping to conclusions.
She perused the photos around the room, convinced it wasn't snooping – only mild curiosity due to current circumstances beyond her control. Most pictures were of Castle and his daughter, but a few included an older woman, also a redhead, whom his daughter resembled. She assumed this was his mother. She picked up a framed photo of the three of them together. They were a very pretty family and seemed so happy – very close. She couldn't ignore the spark of envy running through her. She'd but one photo of her and her parents together from when she was young. Other than that, although she's tried, she doesn't remember them much. She returned the frame to its rightful place on the shelf. This indeed, was truly a blessed family and she hoped they realized how lucky they were.
She and Tommy would have that one day too. Once he returned and his name was cleared they'd leave New York, get married and start the family they'd talked about. If only he'd come back to her. There was still no word on his whereabouts, nor had he tried to contact her, but he was alive, she knew it in her heart.
He was in so much trouble, had made such a mess of things. The police and FBI were making him out to be a criminal mastermind, which was utterly ridiculous. But no matter what they said - she knew him. There was only one reason in the world he'd resort to something as foolish as credit card fraud; those thugs BB and Vinny had to have been threatening or blackmailing him. She'd bet he was only trying to protect his family - although she'd never excuse his not confiding in her. She could have helped him. Tommy had a lot of explaining to do if they were to ever have that future together. And she planned on telling him that in great detail once he returned.
She went over the past few weeks at work again in her head with no recollection of ever seeing Tommy use a crazy device to scan credit cards - she would have noticed. Regardless, the police would never believe her and incriminating evidence was mounting against him by the hour.
She closed her eyes tightly, fought back the tears. "Where are you, Tommy?"
XXXXXXXXXX
Kate rolled over in Rick's bed, her hand hitting the empty space he'd left behind. She opened her eyes, sat up and checked the clock – she'd be late if she didn't hurry, but the bed was so warm and inviting. Memories from the night before came rushing back. She wondered where her man had run off to, until she heard the laughter. Following the sounds of male voices in the next room she climbed out of bed and padded over to the bedroom door, cracking it open slightly just in time to catch the tail end of Kris and Rick's conversation.
"Come on Kris, mine's Rudolph. I told you mine. You've got to tell me now. Which one's your favorite? I mean, if you were forced to pick just one." Rick prompted.
Kris took a moment, rubbed at his beard. "Rudolph?"
"Seriously?" Castle laughed, assuming he was being messed with. Kris looked genuinely confused so he decided to play along. "Um, you know, cute little fellow, brightly lit red nose?"
A heartbeat later Kris exclaimed, "Ah, yes, Rudolph! You must mean Bob. Never did fully understand how he got the nickname. Why I tell you, half the time...he can't find his way back to the barn. He did have a lucky run that one Christmas, but you know how it is...these things get blown out of proportion." He took another bite of his smorlette.
"Seriously?" Castle replied, voicing his amazement.
"I'm afraid so."
"Heh."
Kate quietly clicked the door shut, leaned up against it, bracing herself for yet another strange day with Kris Kringle and his newest elf in training. However this time she let herself laugh, because despite the craziness of the past few days all that really mattered was that they were in love. Maybe Castle was right, she thought, unable to stop smiling - maybe this would be her best Christmas ever, after all.
She showered and dressed then went in search of her morning shot of caffeine. She didn't get very far due to hearing raised voices. Castle and Kris were in the midst of a friendly, yet heated debate, on the merits of the "Elf on the Shelf" toy. Rick was for – Kris against. She couldn't help herself and kept out of sight, eavesdropping. As ridiculous a conversation of that nature might normally seem to her, at the moment she found it endearing and she focused solely on the dulcet tones of the man she loved.
She lingered in the background, sneaking a peek while Rick remained completely oblivious to his paramour's ogling. He wore a tight-fitting, V-neck black tee shirt showcasing his muscular upper arms and soft flannel pajama bottoms. Considering the lack of sleep she knew for a fact he'd had, he managed to look refreshed, relaxed and she would almost swear, ten years younger. His ruffled hair was nearly her undoing. She knew first-hand how silky and soft it was and at the moment it fell in waves over his forehead partially shading his baby blues. Delicious was the word that came to mind. And suddenly she was starving.
Kris sat at the counter, his back towards her while Rick busied himself in the kitchen. "I don't know, Kris, I disagree. I've read those toys are very effective when it comes to keeping the kiddies' in check." He said. "Personally, I wish they'd been around when Alexis was younger. I, for one, probably would have behaved a lot better."
Kris chortled. "Hmmm, I very much doubt that." His demeanor quickly turning serious. "You can't believe everything those muckety-muck advertisers say, Ricky. I think I can safely say I know a thing or two about children and in my opinion; it's preposterous for elves to be used as a symbol meant to intimidate children. Why elves, by their very nature, are extremely busy creatures who would never be caught lounging. It's commercialism at its very worst!"
Kate reminded herself not swoon over her too cute boyfriend in front of company, took a deep breath and then cleared her throat making her presence known.
At the sight of her, Rick's pulse raced. She'd finally told him she loved him last night making him the happiest man on the planet. He didn't care if the big goofy smile he wore made him come off like a big, love-sick sap. "Hey sleepyhead. I was about to come wake you - it's getting late. Hungry?"
"You've no idea." She muttered, taking in all the food on the counter-top. "Wow."
Kris turned around in his chair to greet her. "Ah, Good morning, Katie. Finally. A voice of reason." He said, teasing Castle. "What say you of this ridiculous elf sitting upon a shelf monstrosity?"
"Good morning." She replied, taking the empty seat next to Kris. "I think..." Their eyes bore down on her, anxiously awaited her response. "...that I need some coffee."
Rick sprang into action. "Of course you do. Coming right up." He said, realizing their tie-breaker would have to wait until her coffee kicked in.
"And how are you this fine morning, Katie?" Kris asked, cheerfully.
Between his smile and the rosy cheeks, even pre-caffeine, Kris' good mood was infectious. She couldn't help but smile back. He was undoubtedly the happiest person ever held in witness protection. "I'm great, thanks. How are you feeling?" She asked, noting the circles under his eyes.
"Very well, dear." He replied. "I think it's safe to say I'm on the mend!"
Rick handed her a divine smelling cup of coffee with a heart cream floating at the top. He's so freaking cute. She thanked him and he gave her a wink.
"Say Katie," He teased, pausing for effect. Satisfied with her current shade of blush, Castle decided to give her a break and changed the subject. "Earlier Kris and I were discussing the credit card scanning device found in his suit. He had an excellent idea. He suggested we consider hypnosis to help him recall where it came from."
Relieved to discuss police matters in lieu of jumping Castle's bones in front of a very nice but fragile old man, which would be utterly embarrassing, she pondered his suggestion. "That's not a bad idea, Kris," She agreed. "But first we'll have to clear it with your doctor. And it might not be necessary since the lab results are due back later today. Why don't we wait and see what they turn up first."
"Ricky said nearly the exact same thing when I mentioned it." Kris replied. "It's extraordinary how alike you think."
Rick heard a noise from above and glanced towards the stairs. "Excuse me a moment, but I believe that's our other house guest stirring. I'll go see if Holly's hungry." He placed a plate of eggs and toast in front of Kate. "Eat." He jokingly demanded, kissing her cheek as he passed. "Or I'll see to it that Kris puts you on his naughty list." Then he dashed upstairs.
"So, I hear you're off to work shortly, Katie." Kris said, once they were alone.
She dug into her food. "Yes. Right after breakfast. I'm meeting Jordan at the precinct. We're questioning Balboa this morning and then picking up the Mangosas as well. In the meantime, I've arranged for an officer to come over this morning to take down your written testimony of Timmy's shooting."
The smile quickly left his face and he nodded solemnly. It was obvious he dreaded the thought of, once again, reliving the details of Timmy's grueling death and she felt guilty forcing him to do it, but saw no other way around it. "I know this is hard for you, Kris, but your testimony will ultimately help us keep Balboa behind bars."
"I know, Dear." He replied. "It's all right. I realize it's a necessity."
She rested a hand on his shoulder. "I'm truly sorry about your friend, Kris." She said, sincerely. "But I give you my word I'll do everything possible to prosecute these men for what they've done."
"Thank you, Katie. I have no doubt you will." He patted her hand and then paused, looked deeply into her eyes, gave her a little smile.
She had the distinct impression she was being profiled. "What is it?" She asked.
"It's just that you've grown up into such a very compassionate young woman, Katie." He said, approvingly. "Which, I dare say, considering what you've endured is quite remarkable. Your parents must be so very proud."
"Thank you." She replied, accepting the compliment, deep down hoping it was true.
She looked down at his plate, horrified. "I cannot believe he made you eat that." She said, nodding to his plate, shocked to find he'd been subjected to one of Rick's smorelettes.
"Actually, it was quite wonderful." He replied. "I had seconds!"
"You two are really something." She laughed.
"I'll take that as a compliment." He said, chuckling along with her. "But truth be told it's you and Ricky who are really quite the pair. He really digs you. Oh, wait, that's not a thing any longer, now is it?" He laughed. "What I meant was, I can see why he loves you so. Ha! That saying never goes out of style, now does it?"
"No. It doesn't, and thank you." She replied, shyly.
"I can't begin to tell you how much I look forward to delivering presents to all your future little ones." He added, making her blush. "Tickles me, no end!"
She purposely stuffed a spoonful of eggs in her mouth to keep from responding, especially since she was at a loss for words. She'd only just confessed to Rick the night before that she was in love with him. She'd only just said the "L-word" aloud. It was slightly premature to be thinking about bearing his children. Not that it hadn't crossed her mind – on occasion. Wait, did he just say, 'all'? All - our future little ones? Just how many did he think she'd be popping out? Her heart fluttered, her pulse raced. Would Rick even consider having more children? He already had a fully-grown daughter, maybe he wouldn't even want any more kids. Although Alexis would make a great built-in babysitter.
From nowhere came a fleeting vision, hitting her like a tire-iron; three adorable children playing by the tree on Christmas morning; the girls - two curly-haired beauties, the boy precocious like his father, all giggling with delight as she and Rick, blissfully happy, sat cuddled on the couch watching them open presents delivered by Kris - um, Santa, the night before. She visibly shook herself back to reality, vowing to stay outside her own head. Holy crap, I've really got to lay off those Hallmark channel holiday movies.
Kris took her prolonged silence for unease and worried he'd overstepped. "Well there I go - I've done it again. My wife is always scolding me for being a bit of a matchmaker. I do hope you'll forgive an old man for running off at the mouth, but there's nothing more I fancy than seeing two people who are so obviously meant for each other come together. In these trying times it gives me such great hope for the future. But I suppose that's what happens when you've been happily married as long as Jessica and I have - you want everyone else to be as happy as you are."
"No. It's fine, Kris. No harm done." Kate assured him. She'd nearly forgotten he'd said he was married. "So, your wife - you must really miss her. Does she know where you are? Can we contact her for you? Let her know you're all right?"
"Oh, we've been in touch." He said, slyly. "Jessica's been holding down the fort, so to speak while I finish up my business here. Not to worry though, she's used to me being gone for long periods at this time of the year. Before I know it I'll be home and right back in her hair again." He chuckled, brushing off her concern. "Truth be told I rather believe she enjoys the down-time. As soon as November rolls around," He explained, "The woman's practically pushing me out the door. Says I get on her nerves, needs her "space"…whatever that means. But then I guess it's one of the secrets to a long, successful marriage - you can't spend every waking minute with each other, now can you? Besides, if I get too lonely I can always just pop on up for a quick visit and then pop right back down again. It's really no big deal."
Castle was still upstairs so she decided to humor the older gentleman. "Kris, if you can disappear whenever you like, then why on earth do you stay?"
"Well now, that seems a fair question, Katie. I suppose the answer is quite simple really...there's still much work to be done here and we both agree it's my duty to help bring Timmy's killers to justice."
"We?" Kate questioned.
"The wife and I. Jessica wants these ruffians caught even more than I do." He explained, his piercing crystal blue eyes meeting her hazel. "And if I happen to, perhaps, manage to help a few others on my journey, well then, all the better."
Soon she'd start calling him Kris Cryptic Kringle, his answer once again leaving her mystified. She could only nod back. Whatever he was up to, however misguided, she believed his intentions were honorable. She checked her watch, gulped down the rest of her coffee then gave him a little smile. "Speaking of work still to be done - I'd better run. I'll just go say goodbye to Castle first."
She'd begun to rise when Kris stopped her with a hand to her arm. He glanced towards the stairs confirming they were still alone. "He'll be down shortly, Katie. Before you leave, I was hoping to discuss something with you, privately. I promise it will only take a moment." She sat back down. "There's something I'd like to give you. A Christmas present, if you will. A thank you for all you've done for me."
She tensed up, not a fan of surprises, and certainly not in the habit of accepting gifts from a witness. "That's not really necessary, Kris - I mean you hardly know me." She said, as politely as possible, not wanting to hurt his feelings. She then experienced that awkward moment when you're not prepared with a gift to give in return.
He chuckled. "I know you better than you think my dear girl." He said, his confidence unnerving her entirely. "And I've never met anyone yet who doesn't like receiving presents. Actually, if memory serves, I do believe you rather enjoyed the ice skates." He said, matter-of-factly, amused when her mouth fell open.
After a poor attempt at hiding her surprise, which she chalked up to a lucky guess on his part, she proceeded to make matters worse by giving into her curiosity and not so subtly scanning the area for the mystery present.
He caught her looking and smiled. "Oh, it's not something one can wrap, mind you. But remember, gifts do come in all sorts of shapes and forms. And this, my dear, Katie is a very special gift, one which will be hand-delivered by someone very special to you on Christmas Day. In the form of an envelope. You'll know when you receive it, it's the one I speak of."
She opened her mouth to object, but he held up his palm.
"Now, now, not another word about it, young lady. A gift is a gift. And when Santa Claus makes up his mind to give one, well then, that's that, now isn't it?" He chuckled. Sensing her unease he smiled sweetly. "Don't be alarmed. My only hope is it brings you some well-deserved Christmas spirit. Everyone needs a little Christmas in their heart. Wouldn't you agree?" He didn't wait for a reply. "I thought so."
Confused, curious, and not knowing what else to say, she thanked him. Her mother had taught her good manners.
"You're very welcome, dear." He let out a sigh, gave her a crooked little smile. "You used to enjoy the holiday so. And mark my words, if I have my way, you will once again. After all, it's what she would have wanted for you."
What she would have wanted for me? It suddenly dawned on Kate that Kris seemed privy to some deeply personal information about her mother which she could only assume had come from Castle. "How did you..." She felt her temperature rise, despite agreeing with him - some Christmas spirit was exactly what she needed. Nevertheless, she'd be speaking with Castle about boundaries and respecting her privacy.
"Now don't be mad at Ricky, Katie. He's a man in very much in love and he's been very concerned about you. He only wants to see you happy. Besides, he didn't really tell me anything I couldn't already see with my own eyes." He assured her. "Forgive me again for being so forward, but I haven't been completely oblivious to the fact I make you slightly...uncomfortable."
Put on the spot, she naturally tried to think of words to deny it.
"No worries, my dear. Perfectly understandable under the circumstances." He said, softly. "But I have no doubt that before my work here is done – you and I will have become the best of friends." He'd rendered her speechless once more and smiled, quite pleased with himself. "Oh, would you look at the time. Now off to work with you Katie." He said, gently patting her arm. "I do believe we still have some bad guys to catch."
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
Holly finished making the bed when she heard the knock on the door.
"Holly?" Castle yelled. "Are you decent?"
She opened the door. "Hey."
"Good morning. I thought I heard you up and around. I came to see if I could interest you in some breakfast."
"Sure, thanks." She said politely despite the butterflies in her stomach.
"I trust you slept well?" He asked.
"Yes, I did, thanks." She replied. "And I wanted to thank you again for the clothes. I'm amazed at how well they fit and that you were able to get them delivered so quickly. Just let me know what I owe you and..."
He held up his hand. "Nonsense. I won't hear of it. It's on me. Consider it an early Christmas present."
"But you hardly know me." She said, shocked, completely unaccustomed to receiving gifts from strangers. "And I haven't exactly been very nice to you." She admitted. "I'd like to apologize for that. Both you and Detective Beckett have been nothing but kind, which is amazing considering the circumstances."
He shrugged it off. "Water under the bridge. I think we both may have started off on the wrong foot." Then he smiled, pulled out the famous Rick Castle charm. "Besides, I'm used to women giving me a hard time. Believe me - happens a lot. More than you'd imagine. Hey, would it kill you to look surprised?" He joked. "But, seriously, any friend of Kris' is a friend of mine and I take care of my friends, Holly, as long as their honest with me, of course. That's all I ask in return."
Message received, she nodded, promising herself that from this moment on, full-disclosure would be her middle name. "This room is lovely, by the way." She said. "Is that your daughter? The girl in the photo with the red hair?"
He picked up the picture she'd pointed to. Pride filled the room. "Yes. That's Alexis. And next to her is my mother, Martha."
She moved in closer to get a better look and smiled. "You have a beautiful family."
"Don't I know it." He agreed, putting the picture back on the shelf.
"Castle?"
"Yeah?"
"I just want you to know I was telling the truth about not knowing anything more about the credit card scanning device. Until last night, I swear I'd never seen it before."
"Good." He nodded, knowing Kris was right, that she was telling the truth. "And I believe you."
"Good. But there is one thing I'm worried about."
"What is it?"
"I think Tommy may have been forced…into something he shouldn't have been involved in. If he thought he was protecting us by going along with some stupid scheme BB and Vinny cooked up I'm not sure he'd be able to say no to them. They're dangerous and I don't believe for a minute they're above blackmailing."
He nodded. "Thank you. It can't be easy to admit someone you love may have done something illegal. And I agree - he probably was coerced, but we'll need to prove it. On the bright side, at least he's no longer a suspect in Timmy's shooting."
"Yeah. Thank goodness, there's that."
"On the other hand there's still the matter of the bombing. He has a lot to answer for."
She turned pale. "Tommy would never do something like that, never!"
"Hey, don't get your knickers in a knot." Rick said, putting his hands up in defense. "For the record, I don't think he had anything to do with it either. But, again, we'll have to prove it. Don't worry, we'll figure this all out, Holly. And then we'll work on getting you three back to the North Pole where you belong. But for right now, let's concentrate all our efforts on helping Kris work on getting his memory and powers back which is why I'd like to propose a truce." He held out his hand for her to shake.
She nodded and took his hand. "Truce." She agreed, shaking it. "Hey, Castle?"
"Yeah?"
"Alexis - she's a pretty lucky kid."
"Thanks." He paused and his eyes went wide. "Oh, good lord. Was that a compliment? I must have a fever. I think you may have just complimented me."
"Let's not ruin the moment, shall we." She said, shaking her head while physically turning him towards the door.
"Right. Sorry." He laughed, leading the way. "Hey, I hope you're hungry! Wait until you see what I have in store for you for breakfast. You're going to love it. It's my specialty…."
XXXXXXXXXX
Kate was by the door putting on her coat as they came downstairs. "Leaving already?" Castle asked.
"Yes. I have to get down to the station. Busy morning ahead. Are you joining me later? Morning Holly."
"Hi, Detective." She replied.
Rick stopped to help Kate into her coat. "Yes, but not until after lunch. I'll call you when I'm on my way. Right now, I'm going to make Elf-girl a delicious breakfast." He thumbed to Holly.
"No matter how good he makes it sound, Holly," Kate insisted. "Don't let him talk you into eating a smorelette...save yourself."
"Hey!" Rick yelped, offended. He turned to Holly. "Don't listen to her – they're awesome."
Looking over his shoulder, Kate's eyes went wide and she shook her head in silent warning to Holly who grinned back before heading on into the kitchen.
Rick chose to overlook his love's less than flattering opinion of his culinary skills. "After breakfast...we'll help Kris practice his powers. Turns out he's still a little rusty, you know, since the knock to the noggin. Then we're going to try and hone in on Tommy's location."
He was going to do…what? Kate decided it was useless to argue. "Okay, then." She replied. The adorable, exacerbating man she loved may very well be a nut, but he was all hers. And he was so damn cute. She had to get out of there – and fast, before she was tempted to plant a big wet one on him in front of their audience. I am but a lovesick teenager. An awkward silence loomed as they gazed at each other, both fighting the exact same urge.
He read her mind of course, and although not stupid enough to call her on it in front of company he said as much with his cocky grin. She rolled her eyes at his lack of subtlety.
"Oh, my. I know that look." Kris warned from across the room. "Tread lightly, son."
"Don't worry, Kris. It's a good thing...," Castle's grin only widened. "Every time Katie here rolls her eyes at me - an angel gets his wings."
"Cute, Castle." She muttered, striving for un-amused. "Remember the doctor said Kris needs his rest. Don't tire him out."
He held open the door for her. "Yes, Dear. I'll behave."
"Speaking of behaving...I'm for it." Kate said.
"Your for what?" Castle asked, confused.
"The elf on the shelf. Anything that helps keeps you in line is okay in my book." She replied. "Call me if he gives you any trouble!" She yelled to Kris and Holly.
"Oh, don't worry about me, Katie." Kris replied. "I've an amazing amount of stamina. Let us not forget, I do manage to deliver nearly two billion presents each year. I think I can handle a little down-time with our Ricky." He assured her.
Rick nodded, barely containing his laughter at her confusion. "The man makes a good point. We'll be just fine." He bravely kissed her on the cheek, then practically ushered her across the threshold, closing the door behind her.
Head spinning, Kate gave the agent posted outside Castle's door a brief greeting and then with some time to spare before the elevator arrived, subconsciously worked out the math in her head. Two billion presents? Shut the front door! She marveled at the sheer magnitude.
"Ma'am?" The guard asked.
The sound of his voice spun her around and she realized she must have spoken aloud. "Sorry. I said, make sure to lock the front door." It sounded plausible in her head - hopefully he'd buy it.
"Yes, Ma'am." He replied, testing the knob for her benefit. "Door's secured."
"Thanks." She smiled, safely alone inside the elevator, grateful he had.