Hello everybody
This grew from being a supposedly short story to 6K words.
Next, all Tony DiNozzo or Tony/Ziva fans leave now, you won't even like my AN let alone the story. While I do have some Castle/Beckett this is not one of the Kate does no wrong either.
Looking at crossovers between NCIS/Castle massively disgusts me how they usually turn into nothing but DiNozzo or Tiva propping fan fics.
Right cause Timothy McGee who in NCIS is the writer and a good person gets shoved aside for DiNozzo. Yeah, McGee and Castle make more sense for knowing each other.
I'm using before season 10 Ziva, so character development remains intact, like pre-season 8 Kate Beckett.
Despite being AU, its timeline is post NCIS season 8 opener and post Countdown episode for Castle.
Also thanking my friend Stand with Ward and Queen help on bouncing ideas around.
The Old Haunt
Richard Castle wearing a blue casual dress shirt, dark color slacks, and shoes heads over to the nearly vacated island picking up another tray of fires, alongside a few waters, or sodas. Despite being a car with all of them sharing a drink when starting Castle ever since learning about Jim Beckett's booze issues, from Kate a few years ago has always kept an eye out for limiting alcohol as possible.
Not that he ever really got blackout drunk, well these days at least, for going naked horseback riding. Well two reasons, one being Alexis since after he fell apart that bad years ago of started to get better for his daughter, following divorcing Meredith, and two for Kate. Looking over Richard sees Anthony "Tony" DiNozzo a short distance down drinking well what seems to be like his fifth glass of the night. Maybe more Richard notes frowning.
They had a recent joint case with the NCIS MCRT from Washington DC. Gibbs with others were after some drug dealers who murdered a Marine witness. Only chose to flee up here, and turns out one drug dealer was wanted for a vehicle manslaughter charge years back in this city.
Kate did not get along with Leroy Jethro Gibbs and learned about DiNozzo from a female detective who had transferred from Baltimore years ago due to sexual harassment. Needless to say, DiNozzo did little to improve given flirting with Kate, Ziva, and even tried hitting on Lanie Parish.
Feels a bit of glancing into some twisted, mirror Richard notes not liking it. On one hand could just leave DickNozzo to stew on his drink, but at the same time would rather know if there is a possible problem from getting overly drunk.
Heading over Richard stops as the other man barely spares him a glance.
"What do you want?" DiNozzo inquiries harshly.
"Mostly curious for you are pounding down drinks like a guy trying to stay awake enough to catch the next Twilight film" Richard replies smoothly.
"Because of them," DiNozzo says "And this as close as I can be."
Glancing over Richard seeing Kate having a cue is shooting some balls across the pool table while Tim, and Ziva watch. The four of them were playing, one Richard is kind of keen on returning to. Despite everything a small amount of sympathy goes out to the other man from knowing what that feels like but is not much either.
"Just Ziva and I are like Detective Beckett with you. I know you both know there's something, but haven't quite figured it out yet ourselves. Despite Ziva's more hung up on McTheif. Just don't get it, like's always been" DiNozzo says trailing off.
"There's just one question, how do you see Ziva?" Richard inquiries.
"What?" DiNozzo replies.
"Not hard. Is she just another notch in your bedpost? Your friend? Do you listen? Flirt constantly with other women? Mock Ziva wanting to become a US citizen after Eli David left her in a hellhole to die" Richard says.
Raising an eyebrow "This coming from the playboy writer? Oh, friends with McTraitor. I thought you would be on my side about this since we're alike" DiNozzo says in disgust.
"I am nothing like you" Richard replies icily "One reason why Ziva has gone to Tim is because she knows he respects her as a person. Actually cares."
"Doesn't mean I have to like it when McGush managed to make his money off selling those books about us. Besides I bet Ziva utterly steamrolls over him anyway" DiNozzo says "She needs a real man."
"Tim is one. Go home, you're drunk" Richard says.
"You can't throw me out" DiNozzo responds harshly.
"I can," Richard says grinning sharply "I own the bar."
Ignoring DiNozzo's frown Richard walks away heading over to the pool table setting the tray up on a nearby stand. Sees Timothy using a cue sending some balls that hit the side and don't go into one of the holes.
"Tough break," Kate says.
"Yeah, just not my night" Timothy replies.
"Sure," Ziva says in light amusement.
"What am I missing?" Kate inquires glancing between them "Hang on, have you been holding back all night long?"
Shrugging "I'm just trying to keep the game fair," Timothy says.
"And if suggested you didn't hold back?" Kate asks.
"Oh, more like Uncle Phil conning the loan shark in Fresh Prince of Bel Air. That was a joy to watch" Richard says.
Glancing at the NYPD detective, Timothy moves over slightly until hitting the white ball with the cue sending seven different balls into different holes.
"I played pool during college to pay my way through. I spent time at a bar serving drinks, and occasionally hustled conmen" Timothy says.
"His father had cut him off from any financial support when not going into the Navy" Ziva explains glancing over towards her boyfriend "Math is incredibly easy for him."
"Says the woman who killed Gregg Norvell from a headshot with a near 97.6 percent chance of missing" Timothy replies.
Having a light grin Ziva understanding the compliment, steps over kissing McGee on the mouth, for a moment.
"Just think, that might be us one day," Richard says.
"Keep dreaming Castle" Kate replies.
"That's not a no, and they are cute together," Richard says.
"Yeah true," Kate says.
"Oh wow, you agree with me? That's shocking" Richard replies.
Rolling her eyes fondly "You have your moments of clarity" Kate says.
"I like to think I'm crystal clear all the time," Richard says.
"Don't push it" Kate replies "What was that conversation from earlier about?"
"Oh, just dealing with a drunk NCIS agent who needs to leave," Richard says.
Glancing over seeing that the stool is finally vacated "Seems to have left, finally" Kate says.
"About time, the guy was a douche," Richard says.
"Yeah, I agree. I don't know how you guys work with him" Kate says.
"A whole lot of patience" Ziva replies.
"I just do my best to ignore when he's being childish," Timothy says.
"Feels like looking in a mirror," Richard says.
"Like I've asked before Rick, would you leave Ryan, Esposito, or Beckett alone despite a murder on the loose just so you could go get a date? Play a CD of a dog barking a few hours after nearly being mulled to death by one?" Timothy inquiries.
"No, I'm a class clown, not a douchebag," Richard says.
"Exactly," Timothy says.
"So, enough shop talk, let's play some pool. And I got us fresh drinks too" Richard says.
"Thanks" Timothy replies, "How is owning this place going?"
"Not bad. I'm able to keep history alive. I had Norman Jessup fix up the locks" Richard says.
"You still in touch with him?" Kate inquiries in surprise.
"Oh yeah, I keep Norman in a steady supply of work for fixing up the various apartments, and places we kick down. Helping repair damage done on homes broken into by New York's mustache-twirling villains" Richard says grabbing a pool cue.
"I hope Jessup doesn't charge high fees to those people," Kate says.
"Wouldn't know Beckett, I pay Norman for all of it" Richard replies striking the snowy ball with his cue sending it into a hole.
Quietly Kate has a warm smile briefly cross her face while twirling a piece of her hair. In the end, when sees his mask disappear, and glimpses the real Castle for further reasons of liking Rick. Just as quickly Kate shoves any of those feelings back in a box, yet when glancing over towards Ziva the woman has a certain knowing, soft look in her eyes.
"You do anything like that?" Kate asks, needing a conversation change.
"Quietly. Everybody else thinks I lost my money on bad hedge fund management" Timothy says walking over and eating some fries.
"But you kept it all hidden? Why?" Richard asks.
"Well, you know better than anybody how having money makes you look to others. Like Ryan and Esposito who end up needing something from you when you ask for help." Timothy says, "Never mind the liability given my job, and coworkers."
"Oh yeah I can imagine how well DiNozzo would take it," Richard says, "Or your crazy lab tech who you have told me about before she got sent to a mental hospital."
"Yeah, Abby hates your books. Calls them pointless drivel, like they are not realistic. Plus, hates Nicki Heat and Jameson Rook's relationship. Some sort of holds Nicki down belief who should be freer spirited" Timothy replies.
"What?" Kate asks unhappily.
"Abby's belief in relationships is to be used as toys for one-night stands or how they should care for her completely even if it means ruining their lives," Timothy says.
"Like I've told you before reminds me of Meredith," Richard says shuttering.
"Yeah… don't miss having to deal with her," Timothy says.
"Frankly not sure how you put up with Gibbs all the time. The guy's a jerk, hiding behind whatever past trauma" Kate says.
About to use a pool cue Ziva glares over at the other dark-haired woman as even Timothy looks over glaring.
"Yeah, the boss can be difficult, goodness knows the number of flaws. But I find it hypocritical you're complaining about Gibbs when you've used your mother's murder to hide away from everything. Using it as an excuse for some special privilege?" Timothy replies harshly "You're just upset 'cause he nearly kicked you off the case when a street jackal once employed by Simmons wasn't guilty."
"Hey," Richard says in protest "What, the hell Tim?"
"We've been friends since my book signing years ago. One of the few writers you've done that for. And I've listened to you discuss Beckett over more than one poker game or phone call since Tisdale's" Timothy says.
"And I figured you would know enough to not throw that in Beckett's face," Richard says.
"Forget it" Kate replies briskly.
Ziva watches as she heads out of the bar then sharing a glance with her boyfriend before the NCIS agent heads out after the NYPD detective.
"Why?" Richard asks.
Sighing "Fine I'm a bit harsh but needed to be said. Plus, I have a feeling Ziva can get through" Timothy says.
Nodding "Well Beckett's the one who will be ticked at you, the most. And I bet that makes for some losing arguments involving Ziva" Richard says.
"I'll live. And we don't" Timothy says.
"Don't what?" Richard inquiries.
"Argue, it's pointless. Both our parents had that kind of marriage, we don't fight even before we got together. Neither one of us ever wants that relationship on nothing but constant screaming matches. Slamming doors, and everything" Timothy says.
Outside
Standing on the sidewalk Kate sees a taxi pull up, yet Ziva waves the man off as the NYPD detective turns to glare at her.
"What do you want? Not enough flesh yet?" Kate inquiries.
"Let's talk, just us girls I believe the term is?" Ziva replies glancing off to a corner.
"Oh, sure like I'm going to waste my time talking to you," Kate says.
Ziva gives a tiny grin while heading over near a corner, leaning against the brick wall as Kate follows.
"You have no idea what I've been through, or how it's wrecked my life," Kate says.
"I know you are throwing your life away now," Ziva says.
"Great here we go with this again" Kate mutters.
"You have a family, your father, and Castle. Even for myself who did not believe in such things. You remain hung up inside a self-created prison obsessing over your mother's death" Ziva says.
Scoffing "Don't lecture me. You haven't led my life" Kate says.
"No, you are correct, I have lived mine instead. My sister was killed as a young girl by suicide bombers, my father wanted me to be an emotionless killer loyal to Eli alone. And I killed my brother so he wouldn't murder someone" Ziva says carefully.
Kate sucks in a breath at that horror, and guilt creeps in given reality setting in of Ziva David's life is worse. Extremely worse, than just her mother dying. While she has hidden behind Jonna Beckett's murder, building up walls Ziva's fought tooth, and nail into even discover humanity.
"I've had my screwed-up relationships. My toxic attraction to DiNozzo was one of them. Getting tortured for months after my father… left me behind. NCIS is my family now" Ziva says softly "Tim especially."
Kate goes to speak yet not sure what to say keeps it closed.
"You killed the man who murdered your mother?" Ziva asks knowingly.
"How do you know that? Did Castle?" Kate replies uneasily.
"No, news travels. You got justice. However, I take it that's not the end?" Ziva inquiries.
"It's not" Kate replies.
"You still going to be chasing down leads no matter what?" Ziva asks.
"I have to," Kate says.
"The man who murdered your mother is dead, wasting years of life just to run after ghosts, and conspiracies on something that will never end is foolish. Cut off one hydra head another always grows" Ziva says.
"I'm not listening to this" Kate says going to walk off.
"Don't think your pain and guilt gives you some superiority" Ziva says.
"Neither does your past give one to you" Kate fires back.
Smirking "I know it doesn't. Not after having your body submerged into ice cold water, and a person sticking a metal rod inside it charged with electricity because you decided to let your superiority of choosing Eli David over the people who were your family" Ziva replies in quite pain.
"The people behind your sister's murder?" Kate asks after a moment.
"Every terrorist I killed was for my sister when I began. Only all I have is a ledger soaked in red" Ziva says.
"So… what, I'm just supposed to give up?" Kate asks.
"If there's one thing, I've learned about living for nothing but the mission to succeed can force you into a desert when everything's too late. And it's not giving up. However, put energy on who you can help here alive including yourself" Ziva says, "Not chasing phantoms."
"Why are you doing this?" Kate finally asks in confusion.
"Because I wish somebody had done this for me all those years ago" Ziva replies casually stepping away from the wall "Even if I was too stubborn to listen."
"Listen I appreciate you sharing… all of this. But if you think you're going to get me off my mother's case you're wrong" Kate says, "I've spent a lifetime of people telling me this."
Shaking her head in disgust "Is your mother's case all that matters to you? Tell me what do you prefer, breaking the hearts of your family that you have by joining Johanna Beckett in the ground? Do you think your mother would want this? Who are you honoring?" Ziva asks.
Kate glances off in quiet, silent rage and some other emotions knowing that the NCIS agent is completely right. Not that Kate will ever pridefully admit it.
"Even if… I were to quit I doubt the people behind this would stop. Too many hornet nests kicked up" Kate says.
"Then you fight with your family, not against them" Ziva replies.
Any further conversation is ended by yelling when Ziva and Kate both look over seeing Timothy followed by Richard hauling somebody outside in cuffs. Yet both have a light surprise upon seeing who it is.
"Tony?" Ziva questions "What?"
"Guess he wasn't as gone as we thought" Kate quips "Great, now I sound like Castle."
"Yeah, our writers have a habit of scurrying off on us," Ziva says.
"That's not how… actually it fits," Kate says quietly.
Walking forward Ziva, shortly followed by Kate, meets up with McGee and Richard only to learn that DiNozzo had left for the bathroom then returned in a drunken rage attacking both men.
In a matter of minutes, a patrol squad pulls up with Officer LT who puts DiNozzo in the back, and Timothy is already calling up Gibbs.
Early morning holding cell
Awakening with a groan Tony DiNozzo sighs clutching his head while slowly getting up and is thankful upon seeing Leroy Jethro Gibbs on the other side of the cell bars. His boss, father figure, and the man who always has his back. Walking over DiNozzo smiles.
"Boss am I so glad to see you. How soon can you get me out of here?" DiNozzo asks.
"You're not. Do you remember attacking McGee and Castle last night at The Old Haunt" Gibbs replies, but it's more of a harsh statement.
"I mean I was just a little tipsy, and" DiNozzo starts yet gets cut off.
"Don't care to hear your excuses. You're finished at NCIS and I'm making sure charges are being pressed" Gibbs says.
"Ziva pulled a gun on me over in Israel," Tony says.
"We're not here discussing her mistakes; this is about you," Gibbs says.
DiNozzo opens his mouth yet closes while the NCIS agent gives a cold look before turning around walking away for good.
Hotel room
Waking up Ziva David stretches letting some alertness seep into her body. Even putting aside, the usual soreness Ziva has a light smile upon thinking about the other reasons given what Tim and she got up to last night. Placing her feet on the ground, Ziva shamelessly unconcerned about being naked heads to where her partner is.
Ziva sees Timothy wearing a white T-shirt, and dark-colored shorts while working heavily on a laptop at a round table. A smirk forms on Ziva's lips and upon the computer expert one forms upon seeing her approach. A warm blush too.
"Nice," Timothy says.
"I thought you would approve" Ziva replies standing behind him with one of her arms casually draped onto McGee's shoulder.
"Better than my morning coffee," Timothy says.
Glancing over "So what are you working on?" Ziva asks.
"Well… kind of hard to keep working with you standing there in your naked beauty," Timothy says.
"Do you want me to go change?" Ziva asks.
"I didn't say that" Timothy replies.
"More work on your Rock Hollow sequel?" Ziva inquiries.
"No, a case. A cold case that's been turned hot and is being covered up" Timothy says grimly.
"Which one?" Ziva inquiries yet has a small idea.
"The murder of Johanna Beckett, and the others connected to her death," Timothy says.
"Didn't realize they had past military, not that it's ever stopped us before" Ziva says.
"No, but Jim Beckett was briefly in the Navy. That's our way in" Timothy says.
"Guessing we are staying in New York a bit longer?" Ziva asks knowingly.
"Yes. I don't know if the branch over here wasn't involved, first. Second been spending the past few hours getting files, both legally and not on poking around. Seriously NYPD needs better security systems, it took me four minutes flat" Timothy begins.
Applying a light kiss to the back of his right ear "Not everybody is you who have quietly worked on upgrading NCIS against cyber-attacks these past years. Or broke into the Department of Defense as a teenager. My boy scout" Ziva says.
"Off my tangent box" Timothy replies recovering from his girlfriend's actions after a moment "But I began putting pieces into place. Could use a second set of eyes, from the corrupt officers, and a clear line to the DA's office since always a lawyer involved in somehow."
"Are we going to involve Castle and her?" Ziva inquiries.
"Not yet. Detective Beckett didn't find anything for years until Rick did, though worked together recently arresting Lockwood. Only we've seen Beckett has a blind spot regarding this whole investigation. She's harmful to everybody when it involves her mother's murder" Timothy replies.
"About like me when it came to Rivkin, or Director Shepard on the hunt for her father's killer," Ziva says.
"Yeah, or Gibbs on his moments, but the boss does keep a better head than her. Even when we dealt with Hernandez children" Timothy says.
Ziva blinks from being reminded of the amount of respect involved between both men. Knows how rocky things could get, how each other man would carefully sidestep not always knowing how to interact. Being too similar for preferring quietness rather than pointless drivel, especially when working a case, a love of coffee, or hobbies made from solitude.
"There are times when I forget you were the one who helped Gibbs hunt down my brother before anyone else. One of the people that never gave up" Ziva says.
"Yeah…" Timothy says.
"Well guess going to be one of the busy days, I'm going to go shower. Then we can venture down for breakfast" Ziva says.
"Sounds good" Timothy replies casually.
"Care to join?" Ziva inquiries.
"Well, it would be saving water, lessening time taking separate showers, and we do have a busy day after all" Timothy replies.
"Being an organized boy scout" Ziva says.
Ziva heads into the bathroom, adding a light sway to her hips as can feel Tim's heated gaze. Upon turning on the water Ziva glances lustfully looking on at McGee's nude physically fit and lean body. Stepping into the shower Timothy leans down kissing Ziva while running their hands over each other.
Restaurant area
Sitting at an island Gibbs finishes off his morning breakfast of eggs, bacon, and biscuits alongside a cup of coffee. Not the hotel's kind, only brings his grinder with beans when traveling if able to. One of those small comforts that he does let himself indulge in. Something Shannon did originally for him years ago, when he had complained about the inn's coffee.
A smile briefly graces upon remembering his wife, and Kelly. Goodness, when seeing Alexis Castle stopping in for a quick lunch break just reminded what Kelly might have looked like. Or could be, not forever young.
Momentarily his thoughts drift towards DiNozzo with how despite everything, all the hope he had for the Baltimore cop there is more to the man besides just a womanizing college frat boy for nothing. One reason why he turned the other way far too many times, Gibbs knows regretfully drinking from his coffee. After all Rule 51 is sometimes you're wrong, and the marine knows defending DiNozzo or Abby ended up breaking other rules.
Letting his thoughts move onto McGee gave a quick call earlier saying they might have a case off the books and could be delayed on going back to Washington DC. After a quick understood comment they hung up, nothing more needed to be said.
Gibbs knows that the younger man has the patience of a saint, for sure on putting up with DiNozzo, Abby, Kate, and him for all these years. Would include Ziva, but once a relationship, how serious it was between them, he left whatever Tim alongside her now a separate category. Not that he's not unwilling to give support.
Briefly remembers when McGee came back from Mexico and his first question was Abby, yet it headed straight down to the lab chewing the woman out. Never stepped in like that before, usually lets McGee fight his own battles but knows that's more of an excuse. A failure.
Only when having done a check-in with McGee over Mexico when finding out just what Abby did was beyond livid. Made very clear she had one more chance only upon discovering Tim with Ziva, well her following actions used that up. Pushing that memory aside Gibbs glancing over sees McGee with Ziva walking over, dressed in their usual casual clothes.
"Morning," Timothy says.
"Gibbs" Ziva says.
"McGee, Ziver" Gibbs replies in kind "Found a case?"
"Yeah, I'll show you back up in the room," Timothy says, "And we will probably be kicking a hornet's nest."
"We always do," Gibbs says.
"True" Timothy replies.
"Let's get something to eat first and take it back upstairs" Ziva suggests.
"Sounds good" Timothy replies.
"Who is going to be a fourth member of our team?" Ziva inquiries in light concern.
"Not getting one," Gibbs says.
Timothy and Ziva look over in surprise.
"Before McGee joined, I ran it with just DiNozzo, Kate and me. I think we return to a three-person team" Gibbs says.
"You think the Director will go for it?" Ziva asks.
"My team, my call," Gibbs says.
"We've done it before when you left in Israel, we can handle it again," Timothy says.
Gibbs nods, quietly knowing in his pitch to Vance that McGee can restructure the team when it's time. After all, DiNozzo may have been left in charge before, may have been his senior field agent but now more than ever seeing how selfish DiNozzo truly is. McGee is his legacy to not just leading MCRT but one day as NCIS's new director.
Later
Upon looking over the case files in the hotel room, Gibbs, Timothy, and Ziva start putting information together determining some basic facts. If members of the NYPD were kidnapping mafia family members, then releasing them following payment, then all the money had to go somewhere. However, a safe bet for neither Gary McAllister nor John Raglan remained having access due to what was left of their lives, so next becomes who does have the money?
A third person or more remains pulling the strings. McGee who first started, then Ziva joins in looking into wider government positions for others involved in Bob Armen's death. Only discover how this one ADA back then, for has a rather fast rise William H. Bracken into becoming Senator.
Meanwhile, Gibbs, after McGee and Ziva debriefed him went out to have a chat involving McAllister. Not even bothering with Lockwood knowing doesn't have the time involved to break a man trained to endure torture. Not that was needed since got McAllister to confess to various crimes and used evidence provided by his team for Senator Bracken's involvement.
Plus reveals Internal Affairs Officer Victoria Gates's role. Gibbs quickly put in a request to Fornell for aid. Despite working human slavery operation, connected to some movie actors, alongside corrupt FBI/ATF agents, Tobias instead sends Agent Shaw for help.
Upon meeting up Gibbs with McGee head for Montgomery, while Ziva, Agent Shaw with some other agents arrest Bracken. In case of trouble, Ziva's training and skill are at Lockwood's level.
Leading to now as Gibbs with McGee, ignoring the bullpen including Beckett, Richard, Javier Esposito, and Kevin Ryan who are looking on in curiosity head straight into Montgomery's office. Both stand near a wall waiting until Gates enters, unhappily.
"Why have you summoned me here? I was in the middle of doing something" Gates demands.
"You might be IA, but I'm still a captain, you will show me some respect. Is that understood?" Montgomery replies icily.
"Yes sir," Gates says quickly realizing her overstep.
"You are under arrest for kidnapping, ransom, murder, and whatever else shows up from involvement with Senator Bracken, McAllister, and Raglan. It's over" Timothy says.
"Oh, right you don't need any proof, I've heard the stories about your team Agent Gibbs. You're an out-of-control, tyrant with a badge. You think the rules don't apply to you; break whatever laws you see fit. Assault and lying are as easy as breathing. Employ an assassin, dead beat detective, and some hacker. About as useless the civilian writer this Captain employs who needs to be removed since he's not official NYPD" Gates says angrily.
"Let's go," Gibbs says placing handcuffs around her wrists.
While McGee glances over at Montgomery having previously contacted the man for setting up a quick meeting to draw Gates in. Meanwhile, both ignore Gibbs leaving with Gates.
"Thanks for the help with this. Now I can finally tell Detective Beckett it's over" Montgomery says.
"If you don't mind, I'd like to sit in on this one given my involvement," Timothy says.
"Alright, fair warning she's probably not going to be happy," Montgomery says.
Shrugs "I'll be fine, Beckett's not scary" Timothy replies.
Montgomery nods after stepping out into the bullpen area calls for Castle and Beckett who enter with the federal agent closing the door.
"You wanted to see us?" Kate inquiries.
"NCIS just arrested Victora Gates and is in a joint investigation is arresting Senator Bracken as we speak," Montgomery says.
"Is this involved in the previous case?" Richard inquiries.
"No rather connected to McAllister and Raglan. Gates was the third cop in the alley" Montgomery says.
"What?" Kate asks in disbelief.
"Does that mean it's over?" Richard questions.
"Yes, William Bracken was involved the one who ordered your mother's murder, along with all the others involved in Justice Initiative and a long list of his crimes" Timothy explains.
Whirling "And you didn't include me? You didn't have right; she was my mother" Kate snaps.
"I didn't have the right? Your father and Diane Cavanaugh were Navy, meaning I have jurisdiction first. Second, I didn't do it only for you, it's just another case that needed solving. Now I get you are not quite sure what to feel since it's over" Timothy says, "Do not mistake my niceness for being feeble."
"This was my case" Kate protests.
"Beckett, enough" Richard replies firmly.
"Agent McGee chose to stay; Detective Beckett I expect some professional courtesy," Montgomery says briskly.
"You're right, sir. At least it's solved. Is Bracken going to have any chance of escape?" Kate inquiries, eventually.
"No, Agent David informed me in the elevator his arrest was successful. Well minus a troublesome bodyguard or two" Timothy replies grinning "Bracken's a small shark. The establishment will wash their hands and move on ready to put his replacement in."
"A rather grim view of looking at things" Richard notes.
"That's what politics and people of power do. My team and I have for the past years daily taken down corrupt officials, CIA, FBI, Mossad's screwed-up operations, or whoever else. Not even including Marine and Navy where often they end up being the perpetrator" Timothy replies, "We do our jobs first, not play politics so a reputation spreads."
"I was out of my depth with Bracken?" Kate asks quietly.
"Maybe," Timothy says.
"Could I at least meet this monster?" Kate inquiries.
"Will see, he's headed to Washington DC, but I make no promises" Timothy says.
"How many years did you have for putting everything together?" Richard questions.
"Um…" Timothy says awkwardly "During this morning, I mean you guys did do the hard work for Lockwood investigation. Some of the rules learned from Gibbs, double checking everything, always watching the watchers and if you're being played you probably are. Plus, the boss breaking McAllister helped."
"So, you solved an over-decade-old cold case in a matter of hours? Unraveled an entire conspiracy? I'd tell HR to start paperwork if I thought you would take it" Montgomery says.
"Perhaps in a different life, but it was a team effort" Timothy replies, "I should go meet up with boss, excuse me."
Getting up McGee heads for the door only to pause upon hearing a voice.
Looking over "Thank you guys for everything" Kate says.
"See you in a poker game next time," Richard says.
The NCIS operative nods before leaving as Kate glances back at Castle who reaches out gently putting a hand on her shoulder. Being a mix of raw emotions Beckett nearly jerks away, but frankly just can't bring herself to do so. Not to the one man who's been such a constant in these last few years, of imagining life without Rick. Because he's a partner, and so much more it scares her. Suddenly brought out from her thoughts by Roy.
"Beckett go home for the day, that's an order. Castle get her out of here, I'll explain things to Ryan and Esposito" Montgomery says.
"I'm fine, I'd rather stay and work," Kate says protests.
"Come on, let's go. At least let me make sure you get home then I'll leave. I'll even refrain from holding your hand" Richard replies.
"If you do, I'll shoot you," Kate says.
"Ah so you do like me, let's go" Richard quips.
Kate hides a tiny smile of amusement while they leave, with Castle letting Ryan, and Esposito know about Montgomery wanting to see them. Following that they head for the elevator.
Few hours later at Castle's Loft
Sitting behind his desk Richard had initially tried working on just basic tweaks or other smaller stuff for the upcoming Heat Rises book but didn't last that long. Now mostly just watching videos of Mythbusters instead while responding to a few emails, one being for Lee Child possibly stopping in for a poker game given having an upcoming new Jack Reacher novel.
Brought out from his musings by knocking Castle gets up heading out of his study over to the main door, and opens it to see Beckett standing there. Only it's obvious has been crying since red eyes, no real makeup left, and her hair is a mess. She's never looked more beautiful, yet concern fills within for the detective.
"Kate?" Richard inquires in concern.
"Can… I come in? I just didn't know where else to go, and if I remain alone in my apartment any longer, I think I'm going to go crazy" Kate says unsure.
Stepping back the writer and consulting investigator watches as the dark-haired woman enters before heading over to a couch in the seating section. Following behind Richard after a moment of debate sits down on the opposite end of the couch.
"Following your leaving I called Dad and let him know. That was a short conversation, thankfully he's up at the cabin, no booze and it's a good few hour drive to town. Also, one of his friends is there" Kate explains.
Richard merely nods planning on giving the other man a call when gets the chance, having acquired his phone number a few years prior from ironically the man sending a brief email. Jim Beckett said simply if he was going to be Kate's partner then should have his contact info in case.
"I started to pour myself a glass of wine from a brand my mother wanted, and it just hit me all of a sudden, everything," Kate says.
Glancing over Beckett watches as Castle merely doesn't say a word, just patiently waiting, concern etched into his features.
"And then Josh showed up," Kate says hesitantly.
"Oh" Richard replies but given her current state "What… happened?"
"Trying to get me back I caught him making out with another woman in a supply room. Right after the near terrorist attack, and us freezing to death" Kate says.
"Maybe she kissed Dr. Motorcycle Boy, and he was trying to get away?" Richard inquiries.
Raising an eyebrow "You're actually defending him?" Kate asks in amusement.
"Well… you know, and despite everything Josh did save our lives from the freezer of death," Richard says uncomfortably.
"Sweet Castle, but unneeded. Josh was a distraction from you being with Gina and my screw-ups. Willaim tried to use a freaking kidnapping case I had no business to be in just so he could spend half his time trying to get into my pants" Kate says angrily.
"I'm sorry, even with last summer," Richard says but gets cut off.
"No don't you dare apologize, for any of it. Gina included, okay? That was my mistake, I acted like a stuck-up prom queen rubbing Demming in your face and lied to you about the weekend. I let him insult my partner so no, that was my screw-up, okay? Not yours" Kate replies guilty.
"Okay," Richard says.
"But yeah, I kicked Josh out. I mean I've never even told him a thing about my mother's case. And now just something I've let define my life for so many years is finally done" Kate says, "I'm a bit nervous about what's next."
"I know how it feels to have that weight," Richard says.
"From 3XK?" Kate asks knowingly.
"Yeah, so I know the sleepless nights, the guilt, the feeling you don't deserve to keep going when the victims haven't," Richard says shaking his head from certain thoughts.
"One reason why I didn't want you around when you first began following me. A civilian with such a life getting screwed up from the horrors of this world" Kate says.
"It's my life, my choice. And to be clear Beckett you around or not I stay because I enjoy helping people" Richard replies.
"Yeah, I know," Kate says.
"Besides being safe from trauma got ruined a long, long time ago" Richard replies vaguely remembering Hollander's Woods on witnessing a murder as a young kid.
"What happened?" Kate inquiries.
"Not right now We have enough emotional whiplash for one day, and I'd like to take some enjoyment out of us winning," Richard says.
"You're running but I'm not one to throw rocks given that's all I've done," Kate says.
"And now?" Richard questions.
"Currently I think we are partaking in the most honest conversation we've ever had," Kate says.
"Yeah… so if we are on honesty then where does it leave us?" Richard inquiries.
"Frankly I don't know but I would like to find out. We've been pushing each other away long enough. Honestly just exhausted from running" Kate says "And my conversation with Ziva…"
"What about it?" Richard queries.
"Just from how Tim and she are with each other. Learning Ziva's past has shown me how I've hidden behind my mother or my father's drinking" Kate replies "I'm surprised Ziva's not gone insane from everything."
"Yeah, me too. I know a little myself, mostly what Tim has shared" Richard says.
"Just it's you deserve better," Kate says.
"Better? Right, then you? No, you are very wrong Kate. Are you perfect? No, but neither am I, no one is. I don't lo… care for you because of some sort of superwoman. Flaws and all, you are extraordinary" Richard says.
Kate blinks feeling her eyes get a little moist out of overwhelming affection and has always been better at action rather than words. Taking a few steps forward Kate sits down directly next to Castle meeting his eyes. Seeing the love in them.
Kate leans in at the same time that Richard Castle does as they start kissing, which quickly escalates. Passion mixed in with love, and need all the while their hands quickly start roaming over the other's. A low moan escapes from one of them. Eventually, a need for air separates Castle and Beckett who just remain gazing at one another, lightly breathless.
"Kate… what is it you want?" Richard asks.
"You. Just you, if you'll have me?" Kate inquiries.
"Always" Richard replies smiling.
They begin kissing again as Castle quickly helps Beckett out of her jacket and shirt letting the items fall to the floor. Breaking off the writer kisses along Kate's neck as the NYPD detective gasps, leading into a moan as Castle ventures down to her now naked chest since Beckett removes her bra.
Hope you enjoyed this and let me know what you think, respectfully if that's even possible.
As always Timothy McGee is in his most physically fit season 6/7 self, and well never stops being fun letting McGee shine.
First yeah, I took joy in Ziva obliterating Kate hiding behind her mother's murder and Jim Beckett being a recovering addict when confronted with a far worse past.
Like Kate, learning to live again is part of the show but how much of Kate used her past as a crutch got old.
Had some fun with the NCIS team figured out Bracken was behind everything and had him arrested in hours. Mostly cause the Johanna murder arc dragged on for too long, plus you can tell the writers were making it up without clear ideas on spinning its wheels.
Yeah, Gates is the third cop still under Bracken's employ instead of using Montgomery who I miss from the show.
Putting that aspect aside, if Victoria Gates was a mole by Bracken into the 12th would have done something with the character and given how she was it fits.
Alongside having enough going on I didn't want to add the Castle crew dealing with Roy Montgomery's betrayal as well.
I wonder if Gates ever really warmed up to Castle and more of finally accepted the situation. Especially given Gates's zealous zeal in trying to break apart Castle/Beckett, and unable to get rid of Mayor Bob didn't work in the Recoil episode, Gates switched gears from self-preservation.
Had fun adding in Castle opening up about his struggles from just everyday crime scenes to 3XK killer and using Hollander's Woods event seasons before the seventh one. Really the Hollander's Woods idea I would have put in for at least dropping hints and such that Castle's past is not so clean when coming to dark stuff, for giving more depth to Castle earlier. Alongside letting Beckett and him on a shared understanding at least.
Until next time