Miracle at the 12th Precinct
Chapter 32
The Night They Saved Christmas
Disclaimer: I love, but do not own the Castle characters. Santa, belongs to everyone.
A/N: Thanks to my wonderful beta, 41319always41319 for being such a tremendous help!
Castle's loft...
Castle, Beckett, and Tommy arrived back at Castle's place surprised to find Rick's door already repaired, compliments of the FBI. They thanked the guard at the door and released him from his duties since protection was deemed officially no longer necessary. Once inside they were greeted with a warm welcome by a smiling Holly and Kris who were waiting for them in the living room as they put the final touches on the tree decorations.
Tommy had taken the news of his mother's incarceration with mixed feelings. After hugging Holly, he walked straight into Kris' open arms, again apologizing for all the trouble he'd caused.
"I'm so sorry for everything, Uncle Kris." Tommy said, quietly, tears streaming down his face. "Nothing like this will ever happen again, I promise. I just want to go home – with you and Holly – if you'll allow it. I've learned my lesson. Please forgive me. I'll do whatever you ask. I need to make things right."
"There, there, son." Kris replied, gently patting him on the back. "Of course I forgive you. Despite the tragedy we've endured I do believe this trip has done you some good. I believe you've grown, seen the errors of your ways. Naturally, you're welcome back at the Pole. It's where you belong – as does Holly. And I'll be needing your help now more than ever. There will be much to do and we're quite behind schedule." Holly came forward, took Tommy's hand and the three embraced.
While the others were reuniting, Kate and Rick stood in the entranceway in awe. Gone were all signs of the previous crime scene; no injured bodies or felons were lying about, the broken glass on the floor had been cleaned up, and the tree looked spectacular. The caterers were hard at work in the kitchen and the aroma of herbs and roasting beef filled the room. Once again everything appeared to be in order despite the short period of time since they'd left to the precinct and returned.
"Wow, Castle. You really do clean up well." Kate marveled, kissing his cheek and then excusing herself to go shower and change before the others arrived for their dinner party. Holly and Tommy also went upstairs to get ready, but Castle hung back to talk with Kris.
Indeed, the transformation of the loft was remarkable – the place looked immaculate, but most noteworthy was undoubtedly the Christmas tree which had been restored to its original beauty. The ornaments, most of which Rick had collected through the years, had been used earlier as ammunition against their intruder and were last seen in a million pieces on his floor. Resigned to starting his collection all over again, Castle had quickly made a few calls from the precinct and ordered some decent replacements to be delivered so the tree wouldn't be left completely barren. He needn't have troubled himself. The new ones had been delivered, but were still in the unopened boxes they'd arrived in and sitting by the door. With Kris at his side, Rick examined the tree closer, amazed to find his family heirloom ornaments miraculously intact. When he questioned Kris about it, the older man gave him a wink and assured him it was the very least he could do.
"So, Kris…," Castle hedged. "We met Tommy's mother, Breanna earlier – down at the precinct."
"Did you now?" Kris replied, feigning interest, more focused on admiring their decorating of Castle's tree.
"She's, um…really something."
"You're too kind, son." He chuckled. "Then again, you were always a very polite young man. And what shall be her penance, I wonder?"
"Well, for a start she's been booked with harboring a fugitive, interfering with an ongoing case, and they've added resisting arrest and drunk and disorderly charges as well. She put up quite a fight. And Esposito may need therapy. Due to some rather colorful testimonies, the Feds will continue to investigate the murder of Carlos Mangosa, but without the sled I suspect they'll have to let that particular charge drop. After serving some well-earned time, when Breanna gets out…who knows what will happen to her."
"I've no doubt she will be just fine." Kris said. "Breanna is very…resourceful."
"She mentioned seeing you earlier – while she was locked up in her cell. Is that true?"
He grinned, devilishly. "Now that you mention it, I do believe I may have popped in for a short visit. It was a very productive meeting - grounded her arse once and for all."
"Permanently?"
"If I have my way it will be. But who knows what the wife will say. Once Jessica hears the full story I'm hoping she'll come around to my way of thinking. Frankly, I should have done it years ago - quite liberating! Although, I should probably be thanking her. The blasted woman got me so riled up when she came here earlier today that it was actually the catalyst for my memory and powers fully returning."
"How do you think Tommy will handle it?" Castle asked. "I mean, with his mother being exiled."
"Hopefully, he will be as relieved as the rest of us. I'll be there to help him get through this, and of course, he has Holly."
"Breanna makes my mother look like a saint."
Kris chuckled and patted him on the shoulder. "I have news for you, Ricky. Your mother is a saint."
"I'll have you know I was a perfect child." Rick defended.
"Don't make me pull out my book, son."
Rick nodded. "Fair enough." He said, taking that as his cue to get ready for the party himself. "I'm just gonna go….you know, to my room."
"Good idea."
XXXXXXXXXX
Later that night…
With some time to spare before dinner was served, everyone relaxed in the living room for appetizers and lively conversation. Within half an hour, Kate concluded both Kris and Tommy were skilled story tellers born with the talent to enchant all who would listen. This now included their closest friends; Lanie, Jenny, Ryan, and even Esposito, the most skeptical of men, who was laughing out loud, enjoying himself immensely. Kate excused herself to the kitchen under the guise of checking on dinner and observed them from afar. She sniffed at her glass, wondering if Castle had put something in their wine.
Lanie snuck up on her and followed her friend's line of vision. "Okay, I know that look. What's wrong, Kate?"
"Look at them, Lanie." Kate whispered, baffled. "They're eating it up."
"What do you mean?"
Kate pointed with her chin, trying not to be obvious and kept her voice low. "Them. All of them. Even Javi is smitten. They've got them eating out of the palm of their hands."
"Who? Kris and Tommy?"
"Yes."
"And what exactly is the problem?" Lanie smiled. "I think they're fun! I'm so glad I got the chance to meet them."
Kate was horrified. "Oh, no. Not you too?" She exclaimed. "Tell me you're not buying into all of this."
Lanie topped off her drink and smiled. "I don't see the problem." She replied. "They're harmless and a real hoot. For heaven's sake, Kate, lighten up."
"Right. What could there possibly be to worry about besides the fact that everyone I know has lost hold of their senses; including my best friend who is normally my "go to" voice of reason. Silly me. Give me that…," She said, grabbing the bottle from Lanie's hands to refill her own drink. She promptly downed a healthy portion of it.
"Atta girl! That's the spirit." Lanie said. "Drink up! Be merry!"
Kate continued staring into the living room, and shook her head.
"Kate, listen to me. Of course, I don't believe Kris is really Santa Claus, nor do I believe that Tommy is his newly appointed head elf. Although, I am only on my second glass of wine and the night is young." She giggled. "You might want to ask me again later."
"It's not funny, Lanie. I'm worried about Kris. What will happen to him? Who's going to take care of him? And now that I've met Tommy, frankly, I'm even more concerned."
"Look, you said it yourself, Kris passed all the doctor's tests. He was deemed sane. He's just a little…eccentric and getting on in years is all. He'll be fine." Lanie assured her. "Holly seems cool. She'll make sure he's taken care of. Girl, you worry way too much." She sipped her wine.
"Lanie, have you been listening to their conversation? I mean really listening?"
"Yes, I have. And you're over-reacting."
"You're probably right, but it's just that there are still so many unanswered questions. This case has me all upside down." Kate admitted.
"Kate, as your "go to girl" allow me to break it down for you. Fact vs. Fiction: so far we know they do a lot of work with children. They visit children's hospitals working to keep the spirit of Christmas alive and well. A noble cause. There's extensive travel involved and Kris seems to know where to get all the best deals in town. Not a crime. He also holds the world record for the most Christmas ties ever received as gifts. A little strange? Sure it is, but tell me…how is that cause for alarm? Personally, I find them fascinating. Did you know Santa's sleigh weighs over 500 pounds and that the average reindeer weighs around 1,000 pounds putting the whole thing well above 8,000 pounds - which – I did the math - is just crazy, and that's if you don't include some guy named, Bob. Who knows how much he weighs." Lanie tilted her head.
"See? You're starting to wonder about them now too." Kate said.
"Yeah, maybe you're right. Those numbers do seem kind of high."
"Oh my God, you're as nutty as the rest of them." Kate told her. "And Bob, is Rudolf, by the way - or Rudolf is Bob. Whatever."
"See that…now you're getting the hang of it!" Lanie laughed out loud, but Kate just hung her head. "Kate, what harm is there in indulging a very sweet, nice old man? He's not hurting anyone and neither is his little friend. Now come on, be social and stop hiding out in the kitchen. They'll all be out of your hair soon enough. Just look how happy Castle is."
"Yeah, he does look happy." Kate admitted. "Have I mentioned we're moving in together?"
"Oh my God!" Lanie said, a little too loudly. Kate gently shushed her to ward off the squealing she was sure would follow. Lanie had been in Castle's corner since the beginning. "I can't believe you waited until now to tell me!" She whisper yelled.
"It just happened. And no one else knows yet." Kate couldn't suppress smiling just a little.
"Got it. Mums the word. I knew you two seemed more cozy than usual! Have I mentioned how happy I am for you?"
Kate smiled back. "Thanks." Suddenly she felt guilty. Rick was socializing and happy and there she was standing in his kitchen, acting exactly like the Debbie-downer she'd been worried about becoming over the holidays. Lanie was right – it was time to lighten up. "All right. Let's go join the others."
"Woah! Not so fast, Kate!" Lanie said, stopping her. "Tomorrow…I want details."
"You got it." She promised, before following her friend into the living room to join the others.
As the evening progressed Kate found herself putting her worries aside, relaxing, and enjoying the time spent with their friends off the clock. The caterer announced that dinner was ready and they all started towards the table. It was Kris, not Rick who pulled out the chair for Kate when she went to sit down.
"Please, allow me, my dear." Kris said, leaving her momentarily speechless. Mainly because he'd said it in fluent Russian.
Curious, she kept the foreign exchange going. Encouraged, he did the same.
"You speak Russian?" She asked, not hiding her surprise.
"I speak many languages, Katerina." He replied, nonchalantly, his accent perfection.
"And how many languages, exactly, would that be?" She volleyed, as the others watched in amazement.
"Why, all of them, of course." Kris replied, once again in Russian. Bemused, he moved to a chair across from her and sat down.
Rick, who'd been listening, caught her eye and smiled, hoping to put her at ease. It appeared his beloved was once again at a loss for words.
"Hey, check it, Beckett." Javi said. "Kris speaks Russian just like you do."
"Of course he does." Ryan smiled, rolling his eyes at his partner.
XXXXXXXXXX
Over dinner Tommy kept everyone entertained with yet another colorful tale of his wayward adventures, allowing Kris the liberty to quietly observe his surroundings.
One thing was clear, Ricky Eddie Alex Rodgers Castle, certainly knew how to throw a party.
The night's theme was one of celebration; ripe with laughter, camaraderie and palpable relief. A bounty had been laid out across the dinner table, fit for a king and his knights newly returned home fresh from battle. A succulent roast took center stage, mouth-watering side dishes occupied nearly every other space, the wine flowed easily, miraculously refilling the victor's glasses as music played in the background. Their happiness had been well-earned considering the hard work and diligence brought forth to successfully bring down the Mangosa clan.
Kris observed the happy faces seated at the table. Jordie, despite having hurried home to be with her own family, was also foremost in his thoughts. Although still mourning his beloved Timmy, Kris was ever so grateful for those present. They were a kind and courageous lot; some taking a more prominent role front and center, others having carried out their part more subtly, behind the scenes. But together, they had accomplished something remarkable and the streets of New York were made to be a little bit safer. As he studied them he wondered if they truly understood the magnitude of their actions; if they realized they'd just saved Christmas. Could he ever thank them enough?
Therefore, a party seemed fitting regardless of the unfortunate circumstances which had brought them together. For even in great darkness, came light, and these extraordinary people provided the most perfect example of how life goes on; reunited lovers, strengthened bonds, individual growth, forgiveness, lasting friendships. His gaze hovered slightly longer upon Kate - and he thought, perhaps, even a smidge of acceptance earned from one young lady in particular whom he still considered a work in progress. Maybe the time had come to help that along?
Kris used his cane to carefully rise from his chair and stand. He cleared his throat and then raised his glass. "I wish to propose a toast." He waited for the chatter and laughter to subside, and for everyone to take hold of their glass before continuing. "To my cherished family and friends, old and new…I wish to express my deepest gratitude. As I'm sure you will each agree, ours has been a tumultuous journey. We have endured great atrocities, witnessed unthinkable tragedy, suffered immense loss, yet still, we have persevered. We now rest easier knowing those responsible will be punished for their sins to the fullest extent of the law. The fallen shall not have died in vain. Those injured will receive justice. And though our hearts may be heavy, we, the survivors, will heal over time and become stronger for it. You should all be very proud. If not for your unique talents and fortitude, justice and true love could not prevail. What you've accomplished over the last few days was nothing short of extraordinary; Christmas will carry on and the universe has once again been set straight. The world shall be forever in your debt, as am I. It's been a great honor to stand among you. Cheers." Kris said, followed by a resounding chorus of 'cheers', 'here, here's' and clinking glasses.
"And now, let us partake of this delightful feast." Kris said, smiling as he rubbed his prominent rounded belly. "I suppose I can only speak for myself, but frankly all this excitement has left me famished." Esposito was first to jump up to assist Kris back into his chair. The nice old man might be slightly senile, but after spending an hour in his company Javi could see why Ryan and Castle were so taken with him.
Dinner was superb and then led to dessert where the topic of conversation gravitated towards Kris, Holly and Tommy's future plans.
"I'd love to show you around town before you leave." Rick told them.
"Thank you, Ricky, that is most generous." Kris said, speaking up. "But I'm afraid we must journey home, son. The clock is ticking, the holiday is nearing, and of course - the wife is waiting. As a general rule, Jessica does not appreciate procrastination and seeing as we've already lost so much valuable time – I'd never hear the end of it. I do hope you understand. I'm sure I don't have to tell you, the next few weeks will be quite busy. I believe you youngsters refer to it as, 'crunch-time'." He eyed a happy and excited Tommy and Holly squeezing hands, the love-birds obviously more than ready to begin their new life together, anxiously awaiting their departure.
"Right. What was I thinking?" Rick replied. "With Christmas Eve right around the corner you'll need to be getting back."
At Beckett's and Esposito's raised eyebrows, Holly gently laid her hand on Kris' forearm hoping he would pick up on her silent warning. There were still non-believers amongst them and she remembered the authorities had requested that she, Kris and Tommy remain available in case there were further questions. "Naturally, Kris and Tommy will be staying at my place." Holly said, to the group. "There's more than enough room in my apartment for the three of us."
Kris felt Kate's eyes upon him, the inner turmoil as she studied him, trying to figure him out, questioning her beliefs, working to make sense of it all. Is he all he appears to be? He knew she was wondering. He had been testing her faith since the moment he had met her at the hospital. Perhaps he would take Holly's lead and tone it down a bit before the poor girl's head exploded. "Yes, of course." He nodded, playing along. "We've business to conclude with Mrs. Walker. And your apartment is quite lovely, dear. We'll be most comfortable. Thank you."
"Great!" Rick said, transparently obvious he was in no hurry to see them leave. "Now that that's settled, I insist you at least stay the night. It's getting late."
"We've imposed far too long, son." Kris replied.
"Castle's right." Kate suddenly said aloud, generating more than a few intrigued glances turned her way; including a surprised Rick's. Everyone assumed she'd be anxious for them to leave once the case had been closed. She suddenly found - she wasn't. This revelation caught her off guard and she tried covering her impulsiveness with reason. "It's just that it makes perfect sense to get a good night's sleep and a fresh start in the morning, especially with your injury, Kris. You did say your leg was bothering you earlier." She explained, ignoring the flash of Rick's pearly whites.
Logic or not, Kris' twinkling sky-blue eyes met her own hazel and his grin slowly appeared. She wasn't fooling anyone. He knew he was winning her over and she knew he knew it.
"All right, you've convinced me." Kris said, before turning to Castle. "I suppose there's no harm in staying one more night. Especially after this wonderfully satisfying meal. A good night's sleep is in order. We'd be delighted to take you up on your generous hospitality."
XXXXXXXXXX
Once Lanie, Espo, Jenny, and Ryan said their goodnights and went home, Holly and Tommy excused themselves, retiring to bed. Kate was about to do the same, when Kris, catching her completely off guard, pulled her in for a warm, grandfatherly hug.
"Thank you again for everything, Katie." Kris smiled, once he'd released her.
She smiled back shyly. "You're welcome, Kris. Goodnight." She replied, before heading to the bedroom.
"I'll be there in a little bit." Rick, promised, needing to chat with Kris. Both men took a seat on the couch, and Rick braced himself for the conversation he'd been dreading. Though he didn't want the older man to leave, Rick knew it was inevitable. He also suspected they weren't really planning to stay at Holly's apartment as discussed over dinner. They'd have to return to the North Pole as soon as possible with Christmas only a few short weeks away. In the meantime, he planned to spend as much time with Kris as he could.
Once they found themselves alone Rick confronted Kris. "You're all leaving tomorrow, aren't you? What you said about staying at Holly's was really for Kate and Javi's benefit."
Kris hesitated a moment, but then confessed. "Yes, son. Forgive our little white lie, but we really must get back. We are quite behind schedule. I'm afraid we'll be gone by morning. My one concern is that our leaving will affect the arrests made."
Rick nodded. "I thought as much. But Agent Shaw and Beckett have more than enough hard evidence to press charges on everyone being held with or without your presence. They have your written testimonies. You needn't worry." Rick gave him a huge smile. "I will miss you though. Getting to know you has been a dream come true, an honor, and a privilege….and totally awesome!" He laughed, like a ten year old.
"And I will miss you too, son." Kris chuckled. "It's been a pleasure getting to see for myself the man you've become. Alexis is a very lucky girl to have a dad such as yourself. I'm so very sorry I won't get to meet her in person. Tell me, do you think she'll doubt you?"
"What do you mean?"
"Surely you will tell your daughter of your recent adventure with 'Santa Claus'? Will she believe you?"
"Oh, you know me too well. Of course, I'll tell her everything…and, honestly, it could go either way. I certainly hope she will. It's important to me she believe there's magic in the world, things which can't always be explained. I'd like to think she keeps an open mind, but then again she is always quick to point out my overactive imagination and often reminds me she's the grown up in our relationship."
"Perhaps I might be of some assistance."
"How so?"
"I'm not sure she will remember this herself, but when she was seven, Alexis wrote me a letter asking for a special gift. I granted her wish, but she may or may not realize this. She's an enormous heart, your girl. You see, the request wasn't for herself, it was for a classmate of hers named, Emily. Emily's parents could not afford to buy presents that year due to financial reasons. You see, Emily's father had recently lost his job. Alexis promised to forgo gifts for herself if it meant her friend would receive this one special present. Warmed my heart."
Rick searched his memories. "I do recall that year. She flat out refused I buy her any gifts, which of course, I bought anyway. I just thought it was a phase she was going through. But she was very upset with me and insisted we donate them to a local shelter. I was so proud of her I insisted she keep one for herself despite her protests, but the others...all donated. I'm curious though, what was the gift she requested for Emily?"
"A doll." Kris replied.
"A doll? That seems simple enough. Why didn't she just ask me?" Rick said. "I would have gladly bought it for her to give to her friend."
"This was a very special doll. Alexis included a photograph of Emily with her letter. It was for one of those made-to-order dolls created to uniquely resemble their owner. Quite a big hit that year - all the rage. If memory serves, Emily made her promise not to reveal to anyone her family's situation, and Alexis had therefore sworn never to tell a soul. Also, if the doll had been gifted by you, she feared Emily's parents might reject the gift, believing it charity."
"So if Alexis had shown me the picture I would have known who it was for and asked too many questions? She'd be forced to break the vow she'd made to her friend." Rick nodded. "Well, what do you know, another mystery solved. Thank you for telling me, and for granting her wish, Kris."
"My pleasure. Emily was quite deserving – a lovely child. T'was no trouble at all. I can't possibly grant every wish, but I do what I can." Kris assured him. "You've done well with your Alexis, Ricky. She's a wonderful girl. I regret not meeting her, with her eyes open that is, but please do send her my regards."
"I will, Kris." Rick promised. "And who knows…once I share with her what you've just told me, she might even believe me. I only wish it could be that simple with Kate."
"Oh, don't you worry yourself about that." Kris grinned. "Things are progressing quite nicely on that front."
"If you say so." Rick muttered, wishing for Kris' confidence.
Kris smiled gently. "You've chosen well, son. You know, Katie doesn't need to fully believe as you do. It should be enough for you to know she is able to let herself wonder. Patience my friend. Give her time. I predict she will come around. You must have faith." Kris let out a yawn. "Oh, my. I fear the day has indeed finally caught up with me."
Rick couldn't hide his frown. Their time together was nearing its end.
"What is it, son?"
"I hate goodbyes. Will I ever see you again, Kris?" Rick asked, with bated breath.
Kris smiled back, but did not answer, his eyes suddenly set a twinkle with mischief. He reached for his cane and Rick jumped up to assist him. "Walk with me, son."
"Of course." Rick helped him up the stairs and then back to his room where Kris sat upon the edge of the bed.
"So, I guess this is goodbye." Rick said, shaking his hand. He was really going to miss him.
Instead of a handshake, Kris pulled him in for an embrace. "I want to thank you again for everything you've done." He said, releasing Rick.
"You've already thanked me, Kris. Not that it was necessary. It was nothing. I did what anybody else would do under the circumstances."
"Not true. You were a relentless, driving force. You believed." The conversation turned serious. "You and I both know, with me - eliminated - as it were, people would still celebrate, the tradition would carry on. However, many would be left to go without. So again, from the bottom of my heart, you have my sincerest gratitude."
"You're very welcome." Rick smiled. "Is there anything else you need?"
"Actually, Ricky, now that you mention it, I do have one more small favor to ask of you..." Kris said, cryptically.
"Anything. Name it."
Kris smiled. "Well, I was wondering if I could interest you in…"
XXXXXXXXXXX
The next morning. Castle's loft…
The sound of the alarm clock blaring woke both Kate and Rick from a deep sleep. "I'll start the coffee." Rick mumbled, still half-asleep, kissing her cheek, and climbing out of bed. Kate forced herself awake and joined him. Robes on, they stumbled into the kitchen. Rick prepared a pot of coffee while Kate sat at the counter. That's when it suddenly occurred to her. "Castle. Do you hear that?" She asked.
"Hear what?" He asked. "I don't hear anything."
"Exactly." She replied.
It was then Kate noticed the cane leaning up against the fireplace. "Castle, look…"
XXXXXXXXXX
A brief check of the upstairs bedrooms confirmed their suspicions. They were gone - Kris, Tommy, Holly – all three had seemingly vanished into the night. That's not to say all traces of their stay had disappeared along with them. For left behind, hanging from the closet door in the room Kris had been using, was his Santa suit, with a note pinned to it. It read simply, 'Dear Ricky, A little souvenir. Wear it in good health. Kris'.
"Oh, my God, Castle. They must have slipped out the front door in the middle of the night while we were sleeping." Kate deduced, her theory quickly discarded by the fact Rick's entrance-way front door was still locked – dead-bolted from the inside. She was staring at said lock when it dawned on her, Rick did not appear surprised or upset by this turn of events. "You knew they were leaving, didn't you?" She turned and asked him, point blank.
He couldn't and wouldn't lie to her. "Yes."
She didn't quite know how to react, but managed, "A little heads-up would have been nice, Castle."
"I'm sorry, Kate, but there was really nothing you or I could have done to prevent it even if we'd wanted to." He countered. "Kris would have just….," He crossed his arms, grabbed hold of his elbows and blinked, giving his best impression of Barbara Sheldon portraying Jeanie on, I Dream of Jeannie. "…You know, disappeared anyway." He shrugged at her confusion, his explanation making perfect sense, to him.
Beckett retrieved her cell phone and called Espo. She told him what happened and asked him to pick up Ryan and meet them over at Holly's place. She and Castle quickly dressed and were out the door.
By the time they arrived and looked around there was no sign of Holly, her boyfriend, or Kris, but it was obvious they'd been there recently. Holly's apartment had been cleared of all her personal belongings with the exception of the furniture. There wasn't a single clue to be found suggesting where they may have gone.
"Hey, Kris did say they had business to finish up with their boss over at Macy's." Espo reminded Beckett. "Can't hurt to check over there."
"Right, maybe she's seen them!" Ryan said, muttering the word 'please' under his breath repeatedly.
Beckett was able to reach, Mrs. Walker, who confirmed they had stopped by to turn in their uniforms and say goodbye, but claimed not to know where they were headed after they'd left her office.
Ryan's face fell. He was devastated to think Kris had left without saying one last goodbye. With Espo and Beckett otherwise occupied, busy discussing their next move, and well out of ear-shot, Castle quietly moseyed-up to his buddy.
"Why the long face, Ryan?" Castle asked.
"Isn't it obvious? Do I really need to explain it to you, of all people, Castle?" Ryan replied, shocked at how blasé Castle was being, until he realized Castle probably had received a proper goodbye. Ryan stared at the floor a moment, hesitated before asking, "Do you think we'll ever see him again?"
Castle draped his arm around Ryan's shoulder, pulled him in closer, all the while grinning like a Cheshire cat. "Kevin, my man, if I were you I would turn that frown upside down. Because if there's one thing you and I have learned from Kris' visit…it's to...never, say never."