My Best Christmas Ever - Epilogue
During this AU epilogue for my story, My Best Christmas Ever, we'll catch up with Rick, Kate, and Levi and how their lives have changed since they left the cabin on Mount Shasta. I decided to go with a very long one-shot to bring this story to a close. Thank you for your patience and time as you follow how these incredible characters came together as a family.
The usual disclaimers apply to this story. All character names are the property of Andrew Marlowe and ABC. Other characters, events, and locations are from my imagination.
18 months later….
"Hey, Mama, can I give Sadie her bottle? I'll be careful like I did before," explained the enthusiastic young boy.
Kate and Rick were thankful that Levi had been accepting of their sweet baby. It was very evident that he prided himself on being a big brother. And he looked for every possible opportunity to help care for his little sister.
"Absolutely Levi. I think Daddy is just taking her bottle out of the warmer."
Levi raced to the kitchen to see his Daddy, grinning as he tested the temperature of the milk, then handed Sadie's bottle to his son.
Levi joined Kate on the sofa, where she helped him arrange pillows so he could safely hold his sister.
As Levi helped Sadie enjoy her lunch, Kate entered the kitchen to join her husband as they watched their children bond in the living room.
How they reached this point . . .
Following their short stay in Sacramento following the holidays, where the family, including Kate, had enjoyed the tranquility of the cabin on Mount Shasta, Rick traveled to New York City with Kate.
He wanted to help Kate in every way possible as she transitioned into this new life phase, which included leaving her job and the city where she was born and raised.
And most importantly, Rick wanted to meet Kate's dad face-to-face. They had spoken on the phone and participated in Facetime calls before he and Kate arrived in the city. However, Rick's priority was to meet Kate's Dad in person.
As soon as their plane touched down at LaGuardia, Kate called her Dad and arranged for them to meet for a late dinner.
Kate was surprised to find herself nervous about her Dad meeting her boyfriend, which sounded like an insignificant way to introduce Rick, the man she loved. But they weren't engaged, so referring to Rick as her fiance' wasn't an option. Thus, when the three met at the Beckett's favorite diner, she greeted her Dad with a long embrace and then said, "Dad, this is Rick."
Rick extended his hand, which Jim accepted as he critiqued this man who had suddenly appeared in his daughter's life. Rick had been looking forward to meeting Kate's father and understood the man's hesitancy in accepting him into his only daughter's world.
The three sat down in the Beckett's usual booth and were immediately greeted by one of Jim and Kate's favorite servers, who was thrilled that Kate was back and curious about her beau as she referred to Rick.
Smiling and after introducing Rick to Lucy, Jim Beckett began questioning his daughter and Rick regarding several personal topics surrounding their relationship. He wasn't rude, but Jim was forceful and determined to evaluate this man who had captured his only daughter's heart.
During earlier visits with his daughter concerning Rick, he knew they had only known each other briefly before making several large-scale decisions, which has been his primary concern.
Yet, Jim knew from those conversations that Katie had found the love of her life.
Several phrases and ways Kate described her feelings reminded Jim of his feelings when he first met Katie's mom, Johanna. Jim was instantly enthralled by the woman, even if it did take her longer to appreciate him in the same manner.
After the three finished their meals, Kate excused herself to use the restroom, giving Rick the opportunity he had hoped for.
"Mr. Beckett, I realize we have just met. And I know you have reservations about the speed at which Kate and I came together and several of our decisions. But I want to assure you that I love your daughter with my entire being. And if it helps, my six-year-old son, Levi, also loves her. And I want to ask your permission to marry your daughter."
The mention of Rick's son's name caused Jim Beckett to smile. Throughout his conversations with his daughter, he couldn't count the number of times his daughter had mentioned or shared a story about the young boy. So, Jim Beckett was well aware that his daughter reciprocated young Levi's feelings. But still, this was a massive step for his Katie, not one he took lightly.
"Rick, I know you don't have a daughter, but maybe you will one day. If that happens, you will be better equipped to understand my concerns. Katie is a grown woman capable of making decisions but is still my little girl."
There was an uncomfortable pause in the conversation, making Rick very nervous. What would he do if Kate's Dad wouldn't give them his blessings?
"I am not going to pretend that I have a thorough understanding of the relationships Katie has been a part of, but I do know my daughter. And I can honestly say I am confident she's never felt this way about another man. But I need you to promise me that you will love, care for, and protect her in every possible way. I have experienced several sleepless nights worrying about Katie, especially when she became a cop. But I can see it in her eyes and hear it in her voice, the way she talks about you. I know she loves you, too. And I hope you understand my concerns and reservations about how rapidly your relationship has progressed. So, if you can honestly tell me you have no second thoughts about being with my daughter in a lifelong relationship, you have my permission to marry my daughter."
Before Rick could answer, Kate returned to the table, immediately noticing the strange expressions on both men's faces. She wondered what had transpired in the few minutes since she left them. But both men seemed happy, and when she asked what was going on, she received a unified answer of 'nothing' from both men. Which told her they were up to something. But seeing that both men seemed more relaxed with one another, Kate dropped her questioning, though she had a good idea what had taken place during her absence.
Having finished the desserts that Lucy insisted were on the house, Jim could tell that Kate and Rick looked tired after their flight. Thus, he decided he would wait to share the other points of his conversation with his daughter a little later, so he asked,
"Katie, I know you and Rick have a lot going on, but could we meet for dinner tomorrow night? Maybe at that little Greek restaurant that you love?"
Kate looked at Rick, who nodded as she said, "Sure, Dad. What time works best for you?"
"I can wrap things up at the office no later than 6:15 pm. Meet you both there at 7:00 pm?"
"That sounds great, Dad. I'm looking forward to it," answered Kate as she hugged her Dad, telling him she loved him and was excited about seeing him the next day.
Kate and Rick took a cab back to her apartment, where, for the first time in weeks, they found themselves alone with no possibility of interruptions. After closing her door, Kate turned into Rick's arms, sharing a passionate and loving kiss as she thanked him for returning to the city with her.
"Rick, coming back here has to be very difficult for you. But I want you to know that having you here with me means so much to me. I didn't realize how much until we met with Dad, and knowing you'll be with me tomorrow gives me the strength I need to get through all that's ahead. Both now and when we get back to California."
"I wouldn't be anywhere else, Kate. I want to do all I can to help and support you as you face these monumental decisions. I know you don't see it as sacrificing anything, but I know you are the one who is experiencing so many stressful situations."
Trying to lighten the mood, Rick teased,
"You've heard about the top ten stressors in people's lives. Well, I think you are dealing with at least four of the ones that rate toward the top of the list. So I am here and will do anything you ask, and I selfishly love having some private time with you, too." He said as he pulled Kate back against his chest, kissing her until they both had to come up for air.
"Wow. What brought that on?" asked Kate as she smiled and leaned in, allowing their foreheads to touch as her fingers ran through the fringe of his hair that stuck out over the collar of his shirt.
Rick laughed, knowing he needed to change the subject as he wanted their first time together to be very special. He stated,
"Well, I guess it's my turn to sleep on the couch. Do you have a blanket and pillow I could use?" Rick smiled as he looked longingly at the woman who had won his heart.
The following morning, Kate and Rick went to the 12th Precinct, where Rick stood by her side as she submitted her resignation to her NYPD Captain and dealt with the mixed reactions from her friends regarding her life-changing plans, including her move to California.
Captain Montgomery and her friends all reacted differently to her news. But after several private and sometimes frustrating conversations, they all came together to assure Kate they were happy that she had found her one-and-done. Especially after observing Kate and Rick together, even though the time was brief, they knew their love was real.
After completing the mountains of paperwork required for an official NYPD resignation with standing, Kate learned that she was required to give four weeks' notice to validate her resignation request. This change in Kate's timeline meant Rick would have to return to Sacramento early to care for Levi and attend to his writing obligations with his editor, which upset him and Kate.
But knowing they had no other options, they wanted to make the best of the two weeks they would spend in New York City, including the opportunity to spend memorable times with Kate's Dad.
Later that same afternoon, Kate received an unexpected call from her cousin Sophie, who was moving into the city due to a recent job change and wanted to get together.
That evening …
Jim was the first to arrive at The Greek Kitchen restaurant, and because of the warm evening, he requested a table in the establishment's outdoor dining area to have privacy with his daughter and Rick.
After being escorted to their table and ordering their meals, Jim got directly to the point of his request to meet with his daughter.
"Katie, I have some news for you too. Well, for you and Rick. And many of the decisions you have recently made are making my news much easier to share."
Kate exchanged a puzzled look with Rick before waiting for her Dad to continue the conversation.
"First, let me say I have been thinking about this decision for quite some time, but I didn't know how to approach the subject with you. But now, knowing that you are leaving the NYPD and moving to California, I want you to know that I am retiring and selling the firm."
To say that her Dad's news was a shock was a mild understatement. Kate's first reaction was to question her Dad's motives for making such a monumental decision. But as she sat quietly and began thinking, she knew that these past years of running their law firm alone had been difficult for her Dad.
Sensing his daughter's struggles, Jim continued with his news, "Katie, just as you made some big changes due to the new relationship you are building with Rick and his family. I also want to do something different with the years I have left. When your mom and I ran the firm, even during the most difficult and trying cases, we had fun because we were tackling them together. But it's been getting harder for me to do this alone, so I decided it's time to move on while I can and search out a new path for my life like you have done."
At this point in their conversation, Kate smiled as she reached for her Dad's hand, saying, "Dad, I understand, and if selling the firm and moving on is what you want, I am happy for you. Do you have any ideas about what you want to do?"
All of a sudden, Jim Beckett was acting shy. Something Kate had never seen in her Dad when he softly answered, "Well, Katie, since you told me you were planning to move to California, I was wondering if you'd mind if I moved to Sacramento too. Some friends in the area have small firms and are always looking for litigators to help on select cases. And honestly, I would love to be near you and get to know Rick and his family better."
Kate was overcome with joy as she stood up and moved to the chair next to her Dad, crying as she said, "Oh, Daddy, I would love it if you were with me in Sacramento. Leaving you alone in New York has been the hardest hurdle for me to overcome as Rick and I have been planning our new life. But now, everything seems so much brighter; knowing we will be together is the greatest gift you could ever give me."
The two Becketts held each other close as Jim, who was also struggling with his emotions, when he responded, "Oh, Katie, do you mean that?"
"Yes, Dad. I mean it with my whole heart. You made my world light up when you agreed that we would be together this Christmas, but knowing that we will be moving to California together gives me more calm and peace than I could ever imagine. Yes, Dad, I am thrilled to have you move to California."
Jim, Rick, and Kate spent the rest of their evening celebrating change. Celebrating Kate's retirement, Jim's retirement, the sale of his firm, finalized earlier in the week, and the Becketts' move to California. Things were falling into place for all of them. Kate and Rick couldn't be happier. They all would be starting new adventures together.
The next day …
Following a couple of great conversations, Kate was ecstatic to lease her apartment to her cousin Sophie. Knowing the place that had finally felt like home would be in good hands. Kate accepted her cousin's offer, knowing, in the long run, it was a great financial move for both women.
Before his return to California, Rick helped Kate pack up and arrange for the shipment of her furnishings and other belongings that she wanted to have sent to California. During their packing party, as Kate referred to it, Rick had volunteered to work on packing Kate's books while she dealt with her clothes, including her vast collection of boots and stilettos.
Rick was delighted to see several of his books in her collection, and as he was carefully packing each one, he yelled into the bedroom. "I win the bet!"
It wasn't registering why Rick was so glad he had won a bet. Which bet, she asked herself.
Until she poked her head into the living room and found Rick grinning as he raised his hands above his head, holding several of her books, actually copies of his books, as he proclaimed, "You are a fan! I knew it from day one," he roared as he unsuccessfully tried to duck out of the way of one of Kate's running shoes that she had lobbed at him.
Sophia came into the city early and was able to help Kate pack the remainder of her belongings after Rick returned to Sacramento. Again, Sophie was delighted that she could bargain with Kate to purchase some of her furniture and paintings she didn't plan to send to California.
Kate still had a week left before officially leaving New York City. For once, Kate wasn't upset with being put on desk duty for her four weeks of mandatory duty before her official retirement. Captain Montgomery had to do some negotiating, but he didn't want to put Kate's life in danger by having her in the field for these last weeks of her service. With this change in her duty assignment, Montgomery used Kate's talents and abilities to help train two new detectives who had just transferred to the 12th.
Working regular hours had given Kate more time to pack and help her Dad organize and plan for his move. Having completed the final transfer of his open cases to the new owners, Jim decided to expedite his move to California, putting him in Sacramento three weeks after Kate's return.
After completing her last week of duty, Kate tearfully said her goodbyes to her close friends and colleagues, all promising they would work out ways to visit and keep in touch. Kate knew she was at peace with her decisions, but leaving the Precinct and the only city she had ever lived in was more challenging than anticipated.
Jim had taken his daughter to the airport, but saying goodbye wasn't as difficult as it would have been if they didn't know they would soon be together in California. Jim watched his daughter go through the TSA line and exit to the concourse to locate her gate.
Jim returned to his car with an extra hop in his step as he privately celebrated the changes ahead for him and his beloved Katie. Once in his car, he turned and looked to the sky and said, Jo, it's finally all working out. Thank you for keeping watch over both of us for all of these years. I love you, Sweetheart.
When Kate eventually located her first-class seat, she collapsed as the emotions she held inside began to flow. Her four weeks in New York had gone by relatively fast, but saying final goodbyes to people who had played significant roles in her life for over a decade was difficult as it hit hard how much she would miss them in her life.
But Kate was also so excited to see Rick, Levi and Martha. She had missed them terribly, especially Levi and Martha. Even with regular Facetime calls with everyone, being apart was still difficult for all of them. Levi struggled the most, even with Rick and Kate continually assuring him that Kate would soon return home.
The three weeks between Kate's return to California and her Dad's arrival were jam-packed with numerous moving-related tasks. Rick had arranged to ship Kate's belongings via a POD service, and once they learned about Jim's upcoming move. Rick offered to set up the same service for him. The company gave Rick and the Becketts a special deal if they would ship all of the PODs simultaneously. Rick had room in his driveway for Kate's PODs but not her Dad's.
So, Martha graciously offered her driveway and double-car garage as a temporary home for Jim's belongings. And since she had two spare bedrooms, she had also invited Jim to stay at her condo until he could locate a new home in the city.
Rick and Kate also wrestled with where Kate would live after her move to Sacramento. Initially, everyone thought she would stay with Martha, but now, with Jim also moving to the city, everyone agreed that Kate would stay with Rick and Levi, which delighted Levi.
After Kate and Jim had settled into their respective homes, the Castle, Rodgers, and Beckett families were sliding into new daily routines. Rick was busy writing a new book, which he hoped would be taken on as a new series with Black Pawn.
Kate had registered at Stanford and was thrilled to learn that with her long and distinguished career with the NYPD, she was able to return to law school as a second-year student, which meant that next fall, she would be starting her third year and would need to declare which path of law she wanted to pursue. With this monumental decision facing her so soon after her return to college, Kate was extremely thankful to have her Dad near so she could bounce ideas off of him and solicit his input on her course planning.
Martha finally shared her plans with her son and Kate, letting them know she was returning to the theater. Rick panicked when he first learned of his Mother's decision, afraid it meant she was returning to New York City. But she quickly assured him that she could never leave him, Levi, and now Katherine and Jim. She shared that she had learned that the Sacramento Theatre Company hosted several traveling Broadway shows from NYC.
With her reputation and talent, the theater managers approached Martha, asking her to join their staff as one of the key facilitators for coordinating these productions. Then, when productions weren't occurring, Martha was asked to assume teaching responsibilities at your newly established STC School of the Arts. Where young and upcoming local actors in the area came to learn and hone their craft.
Levi did well in school, even better than during the first semester. He was elated to have Kate in his life, and he seemed to be flourishing with her added attention and care. The changes were more apparent to Rick and Martha. Still, they kept their enthusiasm relatively low-key as they didn't want Kate to experience any added strain as she was adjusting to living with them as a family member and dealing with her schedules at Stanford.
Everyone chuckled as they watched Kate try to help Levi understand why she also had to go to school. It didn't make sense to him that a grown-up would have to go to school and have homework!
Jim had shared that he had talked with one of his friends who owned a firm in Sacramento that handled a lot of contract work for people in the film industry, and Phil had informed Jim that he was bringing on a literary business, and he wanted Jim to work on their new contracts.
The company's President had learned that some of his editors included unrealistic publicity demands in the writer's contracts, and he wanted it stopped. So, Jim's primary obligation would be to review and sign off on all contracts before their submission to the writers and their lawyers. A few of the company's editors were unhappy with the policy change. However, the President did not tolerate their self-serving complaints and told them to comply with the new change or leave the company. In a specific case shared with Jim, the company President fired one of the long-term editors who had submitted the most aggravating demands.
Jim had been conscientious and vague when he spoke of his new position, knowing that several writers affected by these rogue contracts needed to be made aware of changes with their editorial staff members. One of which was Rick.
Jim had approached his new boss, explaining his involvement with Rick, wanting to ensure his work would not appear as a conflict of interest.
"So Jim, is Richard Castle a quasi-family member?" inquired Phil Becker.
"You could phrase it that way. He is deeply involved with my daughter and plans to propose to her soon." Jim honestly replied.
"So are you afraid that your relationship with Mr. Castle would cause you to scrutinize his contract closer than the other writers from Black Pawn?" questioned Phil, knowing he would get a rise from one of his oldest friends.
Not realizing what his friend was doing, Jim replied robustly, "Absolutely, not Phil. You know me better than that." As soon as he made the statement, he noticed the smirk on his friend's face and added, "Well, played my friend."
Phil chuckled, "Sorry, Jim. I couldn't resist yanking your chain. I know you, and I know you will view all of the contracts through the same lens, so I have no problem with you overseeing the Castle contracts in addition to the other writers from Black Pawn. I have assured President James that my best litigator is working with his contracts and that individual is you, my friend."
During the next several weeks, many of the family members felt that their lives were going in different directions due to the numerous demands in their daily routines.
Martha suggested that they have a special family dinner at her condo.
She was having the entire meal catered, so no one had any food preparation tasks piled onto their already busy schedules. And since the dinner would be on a Friday evening, no one would face demands on Saturday morning.
Levi was excited about the special dinner because his Grams always ordered several of his favorite dishes, like macaroni and cheese and fried ravioli with a special basil sauce. The other family members also appreciated Martha's efforts and the delicacies she had ordered for their meal.
After consuming the delicious meal, everyone could feel themselves unwinding as they shared an evening of board games and storytelling, where everyone shared some of the hilarious experiences they had encountered over the past weeks. Soon, everyone was laughing and utterly unaware that this was an exercise that Martha often shared with her theater classes when her students seemed too overwhelmed by outside interferences that impacted their acting abilities.
And now, this special evening played a significant role in this group of unique and incredible individuals coming together as a family, knowing they would face many different forms of trials in their lives. But they also knew their family would always have each others' backs.
The Proposals - both of them!
Over the summer, Rick and Levi seemed exceptionally busy and went on several guy outings, as Levi called them. Kate knew her boys were up to something, but out of respect for Levi, she played along, always teasing them and pushing to try and get them to tell her what they were up to.
Rick knew he wanted to propose to Kate before the holidays and wanted it to be a memorable time for him, Kate, and Levi.
Rick spent many hours talking with Levi, helping him to understand what marriage meant and explaining that they would truly become a family.
Rick knew that Levi understood what it was to be a family, but now their family would include Kate, and he wanted to be sure Levi understood what that meant.
At lunch earlier in the week, while Kate was in class, Levi went into the family room and looked at the picture he had created months earlier that depicted his family. When he gave it to Rick, he shared that it showed all of his family members, including his Mommy. And that she was in the heavens watching over them.
When Levi returned to the kitchen, he asked Rick the question he had been waiting for.
"Daddy, when you marry Kate, will she be my new Mommy?" Hearing Levi refer to Kate as his Mommy hit Rick harder than he had anticipated. He had heard Mommy for three years whenever Levi needed or wanted to talk to Meredith. And even now, when Levi says Mommy, visions of his late wife would pass through his mind and heart.
Rick took a few minutes to compose the thoughts he had planned to share with his son, but when he looked into the solemn eyes of his six-year-old. All he could do was reach out and pull him close as he whispered,
"Would you like Kate to be your Mommy?"
He could feel Levi's shoulders shaking, so he knew the thoughts of his Mommy were difficult for him to cope with, too.
After Levi calmed down, Rick took his small hand and walked with him back to the family room, where the two sat as they looked at Levi's precious drawing.
It was quiet for several moments until Rick began, "You know, Levi. That is my most favorite picture in the whole wide world." Parroting the description Levi often used when he would talk about his drawing. Rick continued,
"It makes me so happy to see it each time I come into this room."
"But Daddy, it sometimes makes you sad too," stated the little boy, much to Rick's surprise.
He didn't always remember how observant his son was, and he must have caught Rick during one of his melancholy moments when he looked at the picture, thinking of their past life. Those feelings had been less frequent since Kate came into their lives, but still, he knew it could stir emotional moments for both him and Levi and probably even his Mother.
Rick never lied to his son, so he responded truthfully, saying, "Yes, Levi, sometimes I am sad when I look at it, but it's only because I loved your Mommy so much, and I miss her too."
"But you love Kate too, right Daddy?" Levi asked in a heartfelt tone.
"Yes, Levi, that is true. I love Kate very much, and I have learned that our hearts are so big that we can love many people at the same time. Does that make sense to you?" asked Rick, wanting to help Levi understand they could still be a family.
"Yes, Daddy, I understand that and love Kate too. She makes me laugh, and she is so fun," replied Levi as he turned to look at Rick.
"What else do you feel when you think about Kate or when you are with her?" Asked Rick, trying to help Levi understand that Kate's role in their family will be more than just someone fun to be with.
Levi closed his eyes as he leaned into his Daddy before saying, "I feel good when I'm with Kate. Like I'm safe, and if something happens, she will help take care of me."
Rick didn't respond, waiting in case his son had other thoughts he wanted to share.
Finally, it seemed like a small light came on inside Levi, and he turned, looking directly at his Daddy, as he quietly answered, "Daddy, I feel like I used to feel when I was with Mommy, especially when Kate holds me close."
Rick pulled Levi into his lap, hugging him tightly as he shared, "I know what you mean, Levi. I feel terrific and safe when Kate hugs me, too."
Then Levi surprised Rick when he asked another question, "Daddy, could I call Kate Mama?"
Rick responded immediately, assuring his son that Mama would be a good name to use, but using a name to describe Kate wasn't necessary and that she loved him regardless of what he called her.
"But Daddy, you want Kate to be your new wife, and I want her to be my new Mommy. And I want to call her Mama. Do you think she would like that?"
Rick smiled with Levi, assuring him that Kate would love being called his Mama. Then Levi surprised him with another question.
"Daddy, you said it's called a proposal when you ask Kate to marry you, right?"
"That's right, Levi. I will buy a special ring for Kate, and then when it's the right time, I will propose to her and ask her to marry me,' explained Rick. He was surprised that his son again questioned how Rick planned to ask Kate to be his wife since they had already had several discussions about the topic.
"Can I propose to Kate too and ask her to be my Mama?"
Rick sat speechless as Levi impatiently waited for his response. Trying to control his emotions again, Rick answered his son, saying,
"Levi, that is an excellent idea. And I know it will make Kate very happy."
"Can we propose to Kate at the same time, Daddy?"
That wasn't precisely how Rick was planning to propose to Kate, but also realizing how important this time would be to both his son and his soon-to-be wife, Rick again pulled Levi close, saying,
"Yes, Levi, we can propose to Kate at the same time. I think we'll surprise her."
Kate will never forget what happened on a quiet Friday night after she, Rick, and Levi had eaten a special steak and lobster dinner that Rick had skillfully prepared earlier. Once they finished their meal and the kitchen was cleaned, Rick asked Kate if she'd like to sit outside in the gazebo since it was such a calm and quiet evening.
The two walked hand in hand out the rear door, with Levi holding Kate's other hand as they sat down, getting comfortable on the overstuffed furniture that Rick had insisted on purchasing for the unique enclosure.
Kate knew her boys well and sensed something was happening because Levi had become very fidgety and kept looking at his Daddy.
Not wanting to wait any longer, knowing his son was becoming extremely restless, Rick picked up Kate's hand, bringing it to his lips as he kissed each finger right before he slid off of the love seat and dropped to one knee, producing a small purple velvet box from his pocket, opening it as he said,
"Katherine Houghton Beckett, I have loved you since we first met. And yes, I mean that fateful day when you kicked me in the shins, threatening me, thinking I had broken into your cabin."
Rick placed his finger over Kate's lips, silently pleading that she let him finish; then Rick continued,
"You have brought a light back into my life and the lives of my family that we thought had long ago gone out, never to be bright again. But you have helped me learn that I can love again, and I want to spend the rest of my life with you. Will you do me the honor of marrying me?"
Kate's hand flew to her face, and tears built as she looked into Rick's deep, beautiful blue eyes. She said, "Oh, Rick, I love you so much too, and you are truly my one and done. Yes, I will marry you."
Rick slipped a beautiful platinum band with three small diamonds onto Kate's finger, saying, "Thank you for making me the happiest man in the world." He then leaned in, sharing a sweet and touching kiss with Kate.
When the two parted, Kate hugged Rick as she slipped her arm around Levi, saying,
"I love my Castle men so very much."
With that comment, Rick and Levi exchanged a unique smile as Rick pulled away, moving to sit next to Kate just as Levi stood and moved in front of Kate. He didn't bend down on one knee. But he, too, removed a small box from his back pocket as he picked up Kate's hand, quietly saying words that he had been practicing for several weeks,
"Kate, I love you too. You make me laugh, and I love playing with you. And you make me happy, and I feel safe when I am with you. Will you please be my Mama?" then he opened another purple velvet box with a bracelet containing four small charms. A Christmas Tree, a Snowman, a small building resembling their cabin, and a small pewter Gingerbread house. Each piece holds special memories of their first Christmas as a family.
Kate knew Rick was planning to propose to her; she didn't know when. But Levi's question surprised her. She was overwhelmed by emotions and couldn't immediately answer the young boy's question, but she pulled him close to her, holding him as tight as possible, and when she was able to speak, she said,
"Levi, I love you so much and would be honored to be your Mama."
Finally, the big day …
Rick and Kate had kept the tradition of the almond alive and were married on November 10th.
Kate had received two proposals. One was from Rick asking her to be his wife, and the other from Levi to be his Mama.
The couple had a simple ceremony at their home with Martha, Jim, Ray, and some other friends present, including Lanie, Kevin, and Javier. Rick's new editor, Michael, and his agent Paula, who had followed him to California, were also in attendance.
Lanie was Kate's maid of honor, and Levi was Rick's best man. The now seven-year-old proudly stood beside Rick in a matching tuxedo, grinning from ear to ear.
It was Christmas, and Rick, Kate, Levi, Martha, and Jim were sharing another memorable holiday season at what they called their cabin on Mount Shasta.
Martha had worked with Ray to ensure that the cabin would be available for their use for two weeks during the season, including Christmas and New Year's holidays.
Several snow events they had done the previous year were now labeled traditions, including the family traveling to Barney's Christmas Tree farm to cut down their specially selected Christmas Tree that would stand proudly in the cabin's Great Room.
After exchanging family gifts, Rick returned to the room, holding a wrapped gift, especially for Kate.
Rick placed the rather heavy box on Kate's lap and sat by her side, extremely concerned about how his wife would react.
Kate opened the box to find a manuscript with an overlay page saying, This is a new crime novel by Richard Castle.
Kate turns the page and reads the dedication to my extraordinary best friend and wife, Kate Beckett-Castle, who, without her support, this book would have never been written.
Tears flowed as Kate asked, "Really?"
Rick prompts Kate to turn one more page, and the cover and title of the book Heat Wave are prominently displayed. Kate is overwhelmed as she looks at her husband with questions in her eyes.
Rick responded to her silent question, "Yes, it's a new story inspired by you."
Rick quickly continued, explaining, "After my trip back to NYC with you, I heard numerous accounts about you and your crime-solving career, and it struck me that you are not only an extraordinary woman but a remarkable police official. Suddenly, words seemed to flow as this new character came to life."
Again, Kate can't believe what she is hearing. Her husband wrote a book based on her. She's unable to find words to express her feelings until she looks closer at the cover. Then her eyes fly open, "She's naked!"
Rick swallows as Kate is on her feet, closing in on him, shoving her finger into his chest, repeating, "Rick, she is naked!"
Again, Rick gulps as he struggles to explain, but all that comes out is, "She has a gun."
Jim and Martha, who had been watching the exchange, begin laughing as Jim adds, "Son, I don't believe you are building a solid case for yourself."
Smiling as she enjoys the show before them, Martha leans in and whispers, "Just wait. That is going to be the least of his problems."
Kate seems to be getting control of herself when she delivers the death blow in the form of her next question.
"So, what is the name of this lead character that you have based on me?"
Rick takes a giant step backward but realizes he has backed himself into a corner when he feels the wall behind him as he weakly responds to his wife, "Nikki Heat. It's Detective Nikki Heat!"
Rick makes the mistake of grinning as he adds her rank to the character's name, hoping to impress his wife. But he quickly learns that the idea didn't help his case. Once again, Kate is in his face, saying,
"Nikki Heat! That's a stripper's name. You need to change that and do it now, Buster."
"I can't change it, Kate. The book is already at the printers. And I like the name. I think it helps to depict the strength and depth of the character."
Kate is speechless as she turns and drops back on the couch, looking toward her Dad and mother-in-law for support, only then realizing that Levi is sitting in front of the fireplace, observing everything that has just transpired between his parents, when he innocently asks, "Daddy, what is a stripper."
Kate only glares at her husband, saying, "You're on your own with that one Writer Boy!"
By this point, Jim and Martha are holding their sides as they practically roll out of their chairs, laughing. Then Martha takes pity on her son by asking, "Levi, would you like to help me make more hot chocolate for everyone? Maybe Grandpa Jim would also like to help us."
She knows her son and daughter-in-law need a few moments alone.
After the three leave the Great Room, Rick sits next to his wife, hoping to get her to realize how important this book is to him and them. And that he wrote it honestly as a tribute to her, her talents and abilities, and her career as one of the top detectives in the entire NYPD.
After several minutes of pleading and explaining, Kate rests her head on her husband's shoulder, finally admitting, "I guess I am a little impressed that you chose to base the character on me. But why didn't you tell me earlier?"
"I wanted to surprise you. My editor loves the story, and my agent has already negotiated a new contract for three more books. This series is going to be my new focus. And it has only been possible because of you," Rick states in a sincere and loving voice as he leans down to share a kiss with his gorgeous wife.
The two share more loving kisses that help Kate calm down as she looks down at the book again and asks, "Is this my copy?"
Grinning, Rick lifts the book out of the box, placing it in her lap. He responds, "Yes, my love. It's the first copy off the press!"
Kate is very proud of her husband and all he has accomplished during his writing career. She traces her finger over the cover, rethinking her previous reactions, as she meekly answers, "I think I am beginning to like it!"
The two lovers share another deep and passionate kiss before Kate stands and walks toward the rear of their giant Christmas Tree, reaching low and pulling out a smaller box, which she brings back to where her husband is sitting.
"What's this? I already opened all of my gifts."
"Well, it looks like you missed one," stated Kate as she leaned back, chewing on her bottom lip. She watched her husband's every move as he opened his gift.
Suddenly, Rick's head snapped up with tears in his eyes as he choked out, "Is this for real?"
Kate, now sharing tears with her husband, gently answers. "Yes, it's real. After I took the test, I immediately made an appointment with Dr. Francis, who confirmed it. We're having a baby!"
Rick jumped up from the couch, pulling Kate with him as he picked her up, twirling her around, cheering and kissing her repeatedly, as he chanted, "We're having a baby."
Hearing their excitement in the kitchen, their family rushed out and asked what was happening.
Once Rick and Kate composed themselves and tightly held each other, they shared their news with their parents and young son.
Seeing Levi's puzzled look, Kate quickly went to Levi, guiding him to sit with her as she explained, "Levi, I just found out that we are having a baby."
Levi was quiet, not responding to the news.
Not sure if he was just shocked, or if he was concerned, or if he was having other feelings, Kate handed him another present, saying this is for you from the baby.
Levi's brows raised like his Daddy's when he was confused or surprised, but Kate encouraged him to open the package instead of saying more.
Inside was a shirt with the words, stating, "I have an important job; I'm a big brother."
Immediately, Kate pulls the young boy close, repeating the printed words that appeared on the shirt and adding,
"It's so true, Levi. You will have a very important job. Our baby will look to you to help them learn so much. How to play with their toys, help them learn how to read books like Daddy does, tell them stories, and, if you want to, help us take care of the baby. See, being a big brother is important, and I know this baby will have the best big brother any baby could ever hope for."
Levi hadn't responded, and Kate became concerned as she shared a worried look with Rick, who only nodded, silently saying, "Just give him a moment."
And as Rick predicted, Levi threw himself into Kate's arms a minute later, proclaiming, "Yes, Mama, I will be the best big brother!"
Relieved, the family shared hugs and congratulations as they each looked forward to the future and all it would hold for this incredible family.
Back to the present day…
Rick and Kate stood with their arms around each other as they watched Levi feed his little sister, whispering promises of everything they would do together. He promised he would read her books and tell her stories. He even promised to share his toys when she was big enough.
Then Levi joyfully added, "And, Sadie, you will love Christmas. We go to our mountain cabin with Daddy, Mama, Grams, and Grandpa Jim. And we can do all kinds of fun things in the snow. I will show you how to build a snowman. And you can help me build a gingerbread house. We'll even go out and cut down our Christmas Tree. It's an awesome time."
"I know you'll love it, and I know you'll have "The Best Christmas Ever!"
A/N - Thanks again to all who have joined me in this little universe. I hope I have answered many of the questions and wishes of reviewers regarding the main story. Take care, dkcfan.