Epilogue – this is my ending for "Caskett" – it is an up close look at where they are 3 months after the story ended.

Decisions and Dominoes Epilogue – 3 months later – 3 weeks before Christmas

Castle heard the front door close; not because it had been slammed, but because he had been listening for it. A self satisfied smile stole across his face, "Beckett."

The whole apartment was decked out in holiday fare and had been since the day after Thanksgiving. This year, Castle had been inspired by the combination of Bing Crosby's White and Elvis Presley's Blue Christmas. It had turned out to be stunning in its simplicity with white lights, ribbons and ornaments accented throughout with similar accessories in the exact blue aspect that snow takes on in just the right light. What Kate loved most about it was the knowledge that Castle had designed this Christmas wonderland just for her. He had done it all in one day while she was at work; revealing it to her as a surprise when she returned home. Kate had been overwhelmed by the beauty she saw in the room and in him.

"Castle? I'm home," Kate called from the living room heading into the kitchen with the takeout she had picked up for dinner.

The logo on the outside of the bags told Castle that she had gone out of her way to bring home Chinese from his favorite place, but food wasn't foremost on his mind. Kate's back was to him putting the bag on the kitchen counter; he slipped his arms around her waist and alternately kissed and nibbled her neck, "Can I please tell you how much I missed you today?"

Enjoying the sensations his attention to her neck sent throughout her body, Kate turned into him, "Me too. The last couple of weeks without you at work, the days have dragged. The weird ones just aren't as much fun without you; and the ordinary ones are no fun at all."

Castle leaned against her since she was backed up against the kitchen island, "Just one more chapter and I am done with this book; I ship it off to Gina and I'm all yours again."

Words not being enough for Kate to demonstrate how happy she was about that news, she smiled into Castle's eyes and kissed him. At first her kisses were almost playful and languidly soft; it didn't take long for the craving to cloud their thoughts.

Once Kate had his attention sufficiently fastened on her, she slipped from his grasp, "Hungry?"

The double entendre wasn't lost on her writer, "That is an understatement."

His face was flushed and left no doubt exactly what he was hungry for, "You wanna eat out of the cartons or do plates?"

"Cartons," God he loved her for offering that.

Kate demonstrated her agreement by shoving the bag of food toward Castle to unpack while she got them something to drink, "I've been thinking about my apartment."

Castle was opening each culinary surprise and checking its contents with zeal; Kate had selected all of his favorites, "What about it?"

Kate came around with two ice waters and got comfortable on the stool next to him. Castle handed her some chopsticks, "I was wondering what you thought about me putting it on the market."

Castle had just stuffed a huge bite of ribs into his mouth and it took him a minute before he could speak, "You mean as a rental property?"

Kate shook her head, "No, I was thinking about selling."

Castle's face must have reflected his surprise, "Bad idea?"

He shook his head vigorously, "No, not at all, you just caught me off guard. What brought this on?"

Kate snagged the bite of ribs Castle was holding with his chopsticks for herself, "Can you think of a reason we might need to keep it?"

Castle wondered if he was dreaming; Kate was talking as if this was a decision they needed to make as a couple, "Are you ready to let it go, Kate?"

"Are you?" Kate searched his reaction.

Each of them knew this discussion was about far more than disposing of an apartment they hadn't spent a single night in since they left the safe house. If Kate was ready to sell; she was making yet another declaration that she was all in; you couldn't have one foot out the door if the foot had no place to go. If Castle was ready for her to sell; he was admitting that he believed her.

Castle noticed his bite was gone from his chopsticks and put them on the counter. He gently pushed Kate's hair back behind her ear leaving his hand resting on the side of her face, "Nothing makes me happier than to hear you come through that front door every night and call out that you're home."

"You're here, so I am home," she didn't have to search for that response; there was no greater truth for her now.

Castle allowed the meaning in her words to linger between them before he spoke, "I know a great realtor; he could have it sold before the New Year. I can call him first thing tomorrow."

Kate fed Castle off her chopsticks and followed the bite with a quick kiss sealing the deal, "Speaking of the holidays, I was thinking that it might be fun to have a Christmas party."

Castle's face lit up like it always did at the mention of Christmas, "Really? All of this getting you in the holiday spirit?"

His pure joy at the thought charmed her, "Yeah, last year we were still trying to figure things out. I thought this year we could invite some friends and our families here and show off this spectacular winter wonderland you've created for us."

"So, we'd be throwing this shindig as a couple?" Castle was just making sure he wasn't misunderstanding Kate's intentions.

"It's time we start a few traditions of our own, Castle," Kate's assurance increased his excitement.

Castle looked like a little boy planning his letter to Santa, "This year there will be presents!"

Kate laughed, "Oh, yes there will be and just like Valentine's Day; mine will be the best."

Castle's countenance became a little abashed at the reminder, "You only won that one so easily because I gave your gift to another woman; accidentally."

Kate's teasing look let him know that she hadn't forgotten, but that didn't put him off, "I know mine will be the best because I already have it planned."

Kate feigned shock, "What if we had decided not to give each other presents again this year?"

"Oh, you were getting a gift this year; even if I had to make you take it," Castle's odd expression indicated that he knew what he said didn't come out quite right.

"I have some ideas of my own, Castle; and I'm feeling pretty confident," knowing how he loved a challenge, Kate couldn't resist poking the tiger.

"I have been studying you Detective Beckett and I think I have cracked the gift giving code," Castle's mad scientist impersonation needed work, but Kate found it sweet.

Kate stood and laced her arms around Castle's neck while moving her body in between his thighs, "Speaking of gifts, if you'll come with me to the bedroom, I have a little something for you."

Kate kissed his lips using her tongue to part them; their mouths moving through motions that generated heat for a few seconds before she stepped away from him, "A gift? I want a gift, Beckett." Castle almost fell off the stool following her.

As Kate disappeared into their bedroom she was topless and she was slipping her pants over her hips, "Come on Castle, if you want to finish unwrapping your present."

Castle not only followed, but managed to get rid of most of his clothes before he reached the door, "I really like presents."

O-O-O-O-O-O-O-O-O-O-O-

Kate was in the kitchen making coffee for herself and Castle when there was a knock at the door. She was still in a night shirt and shorts, but she had a pretty good idea who it was.

"Katherine, its Martha, is it too early?"

Kate smiled opening the door, "Of course not, Martha, come in. Thank you for coming by this morning."

Martha blew into the room with a purpose, "Of course, you said it was important. Katherine, is Richard up yet?"

Kate closed the door and followed Martha into the room, "He's in the shower. Why don't you come and have some coffee with me and we can talk while you wait for him?"

Martha had moved out of the loft on her own once she realized that her son and Kate were giving their relationship one last shot. She hadn't entirely supported the idea at first, but Martha sure wasn't going to be a reason why it didn't work out. After getting past the first few days on her own, she found the move and the independence it provided liberating; particularly where her social life was concerned. The new place was only minutes away and landed her squarely in between her two favorite people; Alexis and her son.

Martha accepted Kate's offer and followed her into the kitchen, "The place looks positively captivating."

Kate poured and handed Martha her coffee, "It does, doesn't it? Rick did a fantastic job."

Martha leaned in toward Kate who still stood across the island from where she had taken a seat on one of the barstools, "He started planning this for you the day after Halloween."

"Castle loves his holidays; especially when he gets to play dress up," Kate and Martha shared a laugh.

"Speaking of holidays, Rick and I have decided to have a Christmas party this year," Kate was a little nervous. She and Martha had come a long way in the last few months, but the easy communication they had before was slow in returning.

Martha looked at Kate surprised, "Really? Here at the loft?"

Kate nodded, "It was my idea."

"Good for you. I bet Richard was thrilled by that," Martha had to give the girl credit; she was clearly trying.

"You'll come?" Kate was hopeful.

Martha got up from her stool and walked around to Kate, "Of course, I'll come. I wouldn't miss it."

Kate hugged Martha happily, "Thank you, Martha."

Martha drew back from the hug but left her hands resting on Kate's upper arms, "If any two people have earned happiness, Kate, it's you and Richard."

Kate had one more question for her, "Alexis and I are meeting for lunch today on campus between classes. I would really love for you to join us."

Martha allowed her surprise at the invitation to play across her face, "You and Alexis having lunch? I'd say that's progress."

Kate tried to hide the smile brought on by the backhanded compliment, "Is she helping with the party?"

"That's the plan and I could really use your help too," Kate's voice entreated.

Before Martha could give Kate an answer, Castle entered the room.

"Well, look who's here? Mother, did they already kick you out of your new place after that last noise complaint?" Castle strode up where the two women stood talking and kissed his mother on the cheek and Kate on the lips.

Kate deflected Castle's jibe for Martha, "We have our first RSVP for the Christmas party."

"That's interesting when we haven't even set a date for it yet. Mother, is your social calendar on the downward swing?" Castle's good mood was aimed directly at his mother.

"My social calendar is none of your concern, Richard, but I will have you know that last night…"

"La la la la la, I can't hear you," Castle cut her off anticipating that the details she was about to share would require more time with Dr. Burke.

Kate had been enjoying their verbal sparring, "Don't listen to him. The party is Friday, December 20th at 7:30."

Castle shot Kate an amused grin, "I'm not sure I like this; you're siding with my mother against me."

Kate and Martha locked eyes, "There's more where that came from buster."

"She's right, Castle. The women in your life kind of have your number," Kate joined in on the teasing while stepping into his embrace.

Martha watched them interact affectionately. She knew that her son loved Kate with his whole heart and she was beginning to believe that Kate felt the same for him. What she saw gave her hope that this time around Richard would get the relationship with Beckett he wanted; she could see the possibilities. They had been to hell and back together and somewhere along the way, they had turned into grownups; and that was a very good sign.

"You two are beautiful together," Martha grabbed her handbag from the counter and headed for the door. As she pulled the door open she called without looking back, "Katherine, text me the lunch details. And Richard my RSVP is a yes for a plus one."

Castle's eyes followed his mother until the door shut behind her, "Of course it is."

O-O-O-O-O-O-O-O-O-

Castle's euphoric rush was energizing. The book was done and right on time. The moment it was out of his hands, and arriving in Gina's inbox at the publishing company, he was on the phone to his party planner. He needed invitations for the Christmas party designed, printed, and ready for hand delivery today.

Castle looked over the guest list they had come up with after he had finished opening his present the night before; he had actually unwrapped it a couple of times last night and once this morning. Remembering that made him think about her; he couldn't help but smile.

Besides family and the gang from the 12th, they had decided to include the mayor and Castle's poker buddies. At such short notice during the holiday season, he wasn't certain if any of them would be able to make it, but the invitation would ensure they knew he wanted them there.

Castle had told the planner exactly how he wanted the invitations done; the blue and white design tied in perfectly with the holiday décor of the loft. Glancing at his watch, he realized that the invitations would be ready by the time he got across town to get them. It was time to spread a little holiday cheer.

After picking them up, Castle messengered invitations to James Patterson and the rest of his poker buddies. He did keep the mayor's invitation thinking that a hand delivery would be a nice touch and decided that would be his first stop. After all, if the mayor hadn't used his influence with Montgomery and Gates to allow him to shadow Kate, this party wouldn't even be happening.

Castle breezed into the mayor's office, "Is he in?"

The mayor's secretary stood up to greet him, "Mr. Castle, it's so good to see you. Yes, Mayor Weldon is here, but he's in a meeting."

Castle was slightly disappointed to have to just leave the invitation, "Is it going to be a long one?"

"I really couldn't say," she answered. "Could I give him a message for you?" she had clearly seen the envelope in Castle's hand.

He looked at it wondering if he would have time to come back and try again later, "I think I will just…"

The door to the inner office opened and out stepped the mayor and Kate, "Kate? What are you doing here?"

"She was looking for a judge to sign a warrant and we ran into each other on the stairs and decided to talk about your sorry poker skills behind your back," the mayor answered for Kate not wanting to miss a chance to take a shot at Castle.

Castle reached out and shook hands with his friend, "Bob, if I recall correctly, last time we played I cleaned you out with an inside straight."

"That was me. I cleaned the mayor out with an inside straight," Kate's tone was matter of fact, but her eyes danced with amusement.

"Ahh, yes, well, I knew someone did," Castle couldn't help but laugh at himself.

"What are you doing here, Castle?" Kate crossed to him and kissed him on the cheek as his arm slid around her waist.

His face brightened, "Mr. Mayor, I, I mean we, Kate and I, are having a Christmas party and we wanted to invite you and the wife to join us."

As Castle was handing over the invitation the mayor responded, "Kate was just telling me about that. I phoned the wife and it just so happens that the 20th opened up for us this morning."

"So you'll come?" Castle was elated.

"Wouldn't miss it," he confirmed. "Now, if you'll excuse me. I have some internet research to do."

Kate smiled at the mayor and looped her arm through Castle's and pulled him out the door, "Let's go, Castle."

"That's just so great! I figured that he would be booked up for the holidays months in advance," Castle chattered away.

"What are you doing running around with invitations? Shouldn't you be finishing your book? I'm expecting Gina to start calling me any minute," Kate was serious.

"The book is in Gina's hands as we speak; well, at least the metaphorical hands of her inbox," he explained still beaming.

Kate hugged him warmly in relief, "You made your deadline? No angry phone calls from your ex-wife?"

"I did and no. I think it was the present you gave me last night. Maybe I need more presents like that," Castle wasn't completely kidding. "Writer's thrive on extrinsic motivation and positive reinforcement."

Kate laughed out loud as they headed down the stairs, "I have to get back to the precinct. Are you going to continue with your invitation safari?"

"I have a couple more here to deliver and then I am going to try and find us a caterer," he laid out the next few hours of his day.

"Why don't I take the precinct invites, Lanie's and my dad's," Kate thought it was only logical.

Castle looked slightly disappointed, "You like hand delivering the invitations, don't you?"

"It's Christmas, Kate. Magic happens this time of year," Castle's energy was infectious.

At the bottom of the stairs, she kissed him, "Be a good boy and maybe there will be a little magic for you when I get home."

Castle watched her walk away and didn't get on with the business at hand until she was out of sight.

O-O-O-O-O-O-O-O-O-

Kate really wanted this Christmas party to be special, so she was excited when everyone she invited from the precinct accepted the invitation; even Gates.

"Co-hosting a party with Castle, Beckett?" Kevin's tone held a very thinly veiled taunt.

"Yeah, so?" Kate eyed Javi figuring he wouldn't be able to resist joining in.

"That's pretty domestic," Javi followed Kevin's lead. "What's next? You going to bring in homemade cookies?"

Espo and Ryan laughed and cut up while Beckett glared at them, "No, but I could see to it that you two funny men end up on weekend duty for Christmas Eve and day."

"We're good, Beckett. I'll bring in some cookies myself tomorrow. What kind should I make?" Kevin had no intention of explaining to Jenny why he was on Christmas drunk patrol.

"I think it's great you two are throwing a party together," Espo back pedaled. "I can't wait; really, I'm literally counting the days."

"That's what I thought," Kate turned away from them trying to keep a straight face. She really hadn't minded them teasing her about the party, but she saw no reason they had to know that.

O-O-O-O-O-O-O-O-O-O-

In a flurry of activity the day of the party arrived. Around 1:00 people began pouring through the doors. There were flower deliveries, supplies for the bar, food for the chef Castle had hired, and gifts; lots and lots of gifts for all of their friends and family.

Around 5:00 Alexis and Martha arrived with their party clothes in garment bags, "Richard?"

"I know, Mother, take these up to Alexis' room," anticipation was always a part of the game with Martha.

"You're such a dear. Katherine? Where is Katherine?" Martha drifted away looking for Kate.

Alexis followed her dad upstairs even though he was carrying both bags, "Hey, Dad?"

Castle hung the bags in the closet and turned to face his daughter, "Yeah?"

"You're happy, right?" Alexis sounded like his little girl.

Castle dropped down on her bed and patted the spot next to him, "Very."

Alexis rested her head on his shoulder genuinely happy to hear him say that, "This is kind of a big deal; you and Beckett throwing a party together and selling her apartment."

"She told you about that, huh?"

Alexis nodded, "Makes everything seem more real."

"Yes, that's true," Castle didn't think he had heard what was really on her mind yet.

"I love you, Dad," Alexis stared hard at her father as if she were looking for something.

"I love you too," he kissed her forehead knowing there was more.

Alexis looked serious, but happy, "Come on, kid, it's Christmas. Did you see all those presents down there?"

Her face broke into a smile, "What did you get Beckett?"

"You are going to have to be surprised with everyone else," Castle was determined that his surprise would not be revealed prematurely. "I'm not telling."

"Oh, come on," Alexis used a pleading voice that used to work when she was ten.

Castle jumped to his feet, "Oh, that is not fair. Reverting back to the ever popular "tween" whine known to work on fathers 79.2% of the time."

Alexis laughed at her father and any remaining anxiety she had disappeared, "I'm really glad you're happy; that you and Beckett are happy."

Castle knew that finding common ground with Beckett had been difficult for Alexis since Kate had come back from DC, but they seemed to be making real progress lately. They had been to lunch several times, he had come home and found them together planning the party multiple evenings, and they had even been on several shopping excursions.

"Thank you for working on your relationship with Beckett. It means a lot to me," Alexis knew when her father was being sincere.

"She loves you dad; we both do," that admission told Castle that everything between the two key women in his life was going to be okay.

O-O-O-O-O-O-O-O-O-O-O-

Castle was ready before anyone else. The suit he had tailored for the occasion was a deep navy which he had paired with a white shirt and tie. He hadn't seen Kate's dress, but he knew that it would incorporate the white and blue Christmas theme of the party.

Just before 7:30 when the first guests would arrive, Martha and Alexis entered the room together. Alexis wore a stunning cobalt blue knee length dress with a mesh-inset bodice and an A-line skirt. Martha had gone with a paler blue lace fit dress that flared at the hemline. Castle was captivated by their elegance and touched that they had both chosen shades of blue.

"Dad?" Alexis called his name but was looking over his shoulder toward the bedroom door.

Castle followed her gaze. When his eyes found Kate standing there, he knew what the writers of epic love stories were talking about when they detailed how the love between a man and a woman had brought whole civilizations crashing down.

Kate stayed in the doorway assessing Castle's response to her.

"Richard, don't just stand there ogling the poor girl," Martha nudged him as she took Alexis with her to the kitchen to check on the chef's progress.

Castle crossed to Kate and took both her hands in his, "You look exquisite." His voice was laden with emotions brought on by his reaction to the sight of her. The white strapless lace dress had a sweetheart neckline and fit her so beautifully that it created a silhouette of her figure. She wore diamond teardrop stud earrings and a matching pendant; he recognized them immediately as belonging to his mother.

Her smile was equally radiant, "You're not so bad yourself, Castle."

The doorbell rang, "You ready?"

Kate took a deep breath and linked her hand through the arm he extended, "Let's do this."

For the next half hour, Kate and Rick greeted the arrival of each of their guests as a couple. Castle was particularly gratified that James Patterson, Dennis Lehane and Michael Connelly all had managed to make it with their wives. For all the crap they had given him on many poker nights about the role his muse was really playing in his life, tonight they would see how good they were together.

As Castle looked around, he couldn't help thinking about how lucky he was. Kate was across the room involved in an animated conversation with the mayor, his wife and Jim. His mother and daughter were chatting with Javier and Lanie; who had actually come together. Kevin and Jenny were talking with Gates, her husband and the Patterson's about something they all obviously found amusing. He didn't think it could get any better than this moment.

The doorbell rang again and Castle signaled to Kate who was still across the room with the mayor that he had it, "I have a delivery for Mr. Richard Castle."

Castle celebrated just a little, "Yes!"

"Mr. Castle, could I have your autograph for my mom? It would be an awesome Christmas present for her. She reads all your stuff," the kid's gaze kept skipping back and forth between Castle and the party goers behind him.

"Sure, what's your mom's name?" Castle took the paper the kid offered up and signed it Merry Christmas Edna from Rick Castle.

Kate appeared at his side, "What cha got there, Castle?"

Castle held tightly to the box being sure to cover the name of the sender, "Nothing, nothing you need to worry about, Beckett."

Kate smiled knowingly, "Wouldn't have something to do with my Christmas present would it?"

Still covering the box, Castle tipped the delivery boy and closed the door, "I'm feeling pretty confident, just so you know."

"Is that so? I guess we'll see, won't we?" Kate wandered away to mingle with the guests leaving Castle to ponder the situation.

"I've got this. I've so got this," Castle was completely certain; well, almost completely certain.

When Castle came back from putting his present in the gift box he had stashed in his office, he noticed that Kate, her father, Martha and Alexis had their heads together over by the windows. He wondered what was going on since it didn't look like a normal party conversation. Something was definitely up.

"Hey guys, what's going on?" Castle asked as he joined the group.

Every face looked like a teenager who had just been busted after curfew, "Nothing, Dad, we were just admiring the decorations. You really outdid yourself this year."

Jim tried to help Alexis out, "Katie tells me you did all this as a surprise for her, Rick."

Jim's comment effectively distracted Castle, but only a little, "I did, Jim. I was hoping to lure her into the Christmas spirit early this year."

"She says you're a big fan of the holidays," as Jim spoke everyone else in the group drifted away.

Not wanting to be rude to his girlfriend's father, Castle stayed but he couldn't help watching them scurry away, "Yes, I am. When I was a kid, my mother always made it a great time for us no matter the circumstances we might find ourselves in."

The two men then found themselves staring at one another in a silence that got more uncomfortable the longer it went on.

After Castle managed to get politely away from Jim, he decided that it was time to surprise Kate with her present. He simply couldn't wait any longer. He retrieved the white box with the blue ribbon from his office and stood in the middle of the room in front of the Christmas tree, "Could I have everyone's attention?" It took a few seconds, but it wasn't long before all of their guests had gathered round.

"Kate, could you come up here with me please?" Castle was grinning from ear to ear.

Kate smiled at him and handed her cell phone which she happened to have in her hand to Alexis before she joined him, "I want to thank all of you for being here with me and Kate tonight. This year has been one of the most challenging and rewarding I've ever experienced. As most of you know, I almost lost everything this year; including my life. As tough as that experience was, it taught me so much about myself. I learned what it meant to be able to truly forgive and to accept the forgiveness of another. I now understand the healing power of truth and open communication. I just don't think I would be standing here tonight if it wasn't for the love of my best friend, partner and girlfriend."

Castle took a breath and turned to Kate, "I want to give you your Christmas present tonight, Kate."

Kate raised an eyebrow, but didn't object, "I know I can be a little slow to pick things up sometimes, but I've learned that the way to your heart is to give from the heart."

Kate glanced at Alexis who shook her head slightly, "Castle, I'm going to love whatever you got me."

"I really wanted to do something special for our first gift giving Christmas; something that would tell the world how I feel about you," Castle's eyes were glowing with energy. "Merry Christmas, Kate," he told her softly as he handed her the box.

The crowd in the room seemed to surge forward wanting to see what Castle had done for her. Kate slipped the ribbon off the box and opened it. Everyone could tell from her expression that she was both surprised and delighted with what was inside. "Castle," her emotional reaction to his gift betrayed by the tremor in her voice.

Castle's excitement grew watching her, "You like it?"

"Oh, Rick, I can't believe you did this," Kate stared into his eyes trying to find the words to convey what she was feeling.

Martha couldn't help herself, "For goodness sake, Katherine, what is it?"

The guests laughed softly at Martha's prompting, but all felt the same way she did, "Castle's new book; Killer Heat."

Kevin let out a cry, "Yes! Nikki and Jameson are back!" More laughter filled the space.

Kate was overwhelmed. They had never talked about the end of the Nikki Heat series. In fact, Kate had not been able to bring herself to read Federal Heat knowing he had closed out the series with it; afraid of the ending that in his anger and hurt he had constructed for their alter egos.

"This is an amazing gift. You really do know me," Kate took the book out of the box and showed the cover to their audience. For the first time in the series, silhouettes of both Rook and Heat were on the cover. He had chosen to continue the story; their story.

"Read the dedication," Javi requested knowing how personal each one of them had been in all of Castle's other novels.

"May I?" Castle took the book from Kate. She couldn't take her eyes off of him.

Castle spoke loudly enough for everyone to hear, but he was talking only to her, "For Katherine, the one who made all of the love songs make sense."

The crowd erupted into applause; Castle and Kate took that moment to share a kiss, "They really do make sense now."

With their foreheads touching and using only a whisper Castle asked, "So, did I win?"

Before Kate could answer, Alexis was at her side showing her what Castle assumed was a text message, "Perfect."

Castle was curious, "What's perfect?"

"It's my turn, Castle," the intensity of her smile let him know that the competition wasn't over.

"Everyone, I am so glad you are all here today to celebrate Christmas with us. There's no better time to recognize the importance of family and friends," Kate began. "There are people in our lives that are a constant presence who guide and advise us day to day and year to year; their impact on who we are undeniable. But there are others who touch our lives just as deeply even though they may just be passing through or are there for us in our time of greatest need; contributions whose impact may never be fully realized."

"Kate?" Castle began scouring the room wondering if it was possible.

"I want to introduce you all to a very special guest, Jackson Hunt; Castle's father," the room broke into applause and everyone was looking around for the mystery guest.

Castle saw him standing at the back of the room; Alexis on one arm, Martha on the other.

"You did this for me? But how?" Castle was incredulous and swelling with gratitude at the same time, but he didn't want to leave her.

"Castle, go," Kate whispered her assent for him to welcome his father.

The two men met in an embrace in the center of the guests. Kate stood back giving Castle and his father the moment that she had wanted and planned for them. She watched Castle proudly introduce his father to his friends and celebrate his unexpected arrival. She had to turn away from them to gain control over her own emotional response to their reunion.

Martha sidled up to Kate, "This why you discouraged me from bringing a plus one to this soiree?"

Alexis arrived to join them somewhat breathless interrupting Kate's response, "Thank you for bringing my grandfather here. Look at, Dad."

"He looks happy, doesn't he?" Kate said to them unable to stop watching them interact.

"Well, this party is just getting started," Martha foretold. "I'm getting some champagne before Act II."

Alexis' kept hanging around as though she had something she wanted to say, "Kate?"

Hearing the anxiety in her voice, Kate gave Alexis her undivided attention, "Is everything okay?"

"I just wanted to say I'm sorry," Alexis declared openly.

Kate instinctively knew what this was about, "You don't owe me an apology."

"Yes, I do. I said some really horrible things to you when you came back," she admitted.

"I did some things to deserve them," Kate wasn't just trying to let her off easy; she meant it.

"I guess I just want you to know that I'm good with it now; with you and my dad being together," Alexis was offering her blessing.

Kate smiled at her warmly, "That means a lot to me, Alexis, and it will to your father too."

Alexis smiled back at her and then found her father and grandfather in the crowd, "I'm going to go and say hi."

Kate hugged her and Alexis returned the embrace, "Merry Christmas, Kate."

Kate watched her go calling after her, "Merry Christmas, Alexis."

O-O-O-O-O-O-O-O-O-O-

It had been almost an hour since Hunt's introduction to the party goers and Castle was still working his way back to Kate with Jackson Hunt. Between the mayor and Castle's fellow writers and poker buddies, there had been plenty of greetings, good natured ribbing and storytelling to go around.

Lanie took the opportunity to corner Kate, "Why do I get the feeling that there is a whole lot more to this story?"

Kate glanced at Lanie knowing it was pointless to try and evade, "Because there is."

"Uhhh huh, I knew there was more going on during the Tyson case than you were telling Kate Beckett," Lanie's accusation was malice free.

"Plausible deniability?" Kate threw it out there, but wasn't terribly hopeful it would stick.

Lanie started to react, but then thought better of it, "You know, when I was locked down for a couple of days in the morgue during that whole thing, it was kind of nice to not know the answers to any of the questions about where you two were or what you were up to."

"See? Plausible deniability can be a good thing," Kate couldn't believe she was getting off so easily.

Javi arrived at his date's side, "That was pretty cool, Kate, bringing in Castle's pops."

Lanie transferred her attention to Espo, "You knew about this man and you didn't tell me?"

Kate laughed and gave Javi an apologetic look as they walked away, "Lanie, it was need to know."

"Who says you decide what I need to know Javier Espositio?" Kate could tell that Lanie was going to have a little fun with this one before she let it go.

When Kate turned back to her guests, Castle and Hunt were heading for her, "Hey, kid, you look beautiful."

"You're looking pretty nice yourself," Kate hugged him warmly noting that Hunt wore a navy suit not much different from Castles and a white tie.

"I have to say, getting my dad here, that's a pretty amazing gift," Castle reached out and took her hand with a smile that was contagious within ten feet.

"You're welcome Castle, but that wasn't your gift," Kate's delivery was perfect.

Castle was stunned, "This wasn't my Christmas present?"

Kate shook her head, "No, it's not."

Just then Mayor Weldon walked up to Kate, "I'm ready when you are."

Castle watched Kate's response, "I'm ready."

The mayor called the room back to attention, "I know we've already had a couple of great surprises tonight, but the night is not over. Kate?"

Kate took a moment to visually find Lanie, Alexis, Martha, her dad and Hunt. The five were standing together just a few feet away smiling at her, "Castle, five years ago you came into my life and turned everything upside down. At first you drove me crazy, but after a while I couldn't imagine my days without you and realized that I looked forward to going to work each day because I knew you would be there." Kate paused briefly, "And then I fell in love with you, but I couldn't admit it to myself or you. I knew I had feelings for you long before I could voice them. I let so many chances to tell you slip away over the years, but that's not going to happen today."

Kate's smile was beautifully tenuous, "Richard Edgar Castle, will you marry me?"

Castle was lucky that the reaction of the guests gave him several seconds to process what had just happened. Their surprise and excitement at the proposal second only to his, "Kate, there's nothing…absolutely nothing I want more than to be your husband."

"Is that a yes, son?" Hunt interjected.

"Yes, it's a definite yes," Castle and Kate kissed passionately and their guests showed their appreciation with loud cheers and applause.

Kate had waited until the noise died down. "I've just got one more question for you."

Castle didn't interrupt her, but she could tell he was nervous at this point, "Will you marry me tonight here in front of all of our family and friends?"

"Right now?" Castle looked at his mother, Alexis, their fathers and Lanie to confirm that this was no surprise to them.

"What do you say, Castle?" she bit her lower lip anticipating his answer.

"We don't have a minister or a license," everyone could tell he was reeling with the enormity and surprise of the moment.

The mayor interrupted, "It just so happens I am a newly ordained minister. It's amazing what you can do on the internet these days."

Castle made the connection, "That was the research you had to do the day I dropped off the invitation."

"And I got the judge to sign a waiver for the waiting period," Kate adeptly took out his other argument.

"All you have to do is say yes to the lady and sign on the dotted line my friend," Weldon challenged him.

Castle's face cycled through a full range of emotions in only a few seconds before answering, "I'm so in. Let's get married!"

Again celebration took over the room. It took some time to restore enough calm for the mayor to begin the ceremony. Alexis and Martha hugged Castle warmly, "I'm happy for you, dad," Alexis told him truthfully.

"Me too, darling; I have to say, it's about time," Martha showed her support by being herself.

Without a single rehearsal, everyone seemed to know right where to be. Hunt stood beside his son as best man with Ryan and Espo stepping up as groomsmen even though they had been kept in the dark about the proposal. Kate had asked Alexis to be her maid of honor solidifying a bond she hoped would carry them through many years together as the most important women in Richard Castle's life. Lanie and Martha stood beside Alexis as bridesmaids; Kate couldn't have been happier.

Jim walked his daughter down a make shift aisle giving her hand to a man whom he was confident not only deserved her, but would protect and love her for the rest of their days.

Just before the ceremony began, Alexis slipped something into her father's hand. It was a platinum women's wedding band. He noticed the inscription immediately and smiled – it said Always 12.20.13 Later, he would find that his matching men's band was a reflection of hers.

The ceremony was brief, but the outcome the same as any other. After allowing Castle to kiss his bride, the mayor presented for the first time to those assembled Mr. and Mrs. Richard Castle.

The next hour was a whirlwind. Kate and Rick mingled with their guests; never letting go of one another's hand and meeting eyes every few minutes; neither quite believing they were actually married. There was wedding cake, lots of champagne and the photographer who had been hired to shoot the Christmas party took on the role of wedding photographer without missing a beat.

When the couple finally got a moment to themselves, Castle pulled her close, "A surprise wedding; I'm not sure I will ever be able to beat that Mrs. Castle."

Kate rested her head on his chest, "That wasn't your present either."

He backed up enough so she would have to look at him, "You're kidding me."

The Christmas party that became a wedding still wasn't done, "No, still not it."

All Castle could do was stare at her stunned that there could possibly be something else, "Would you like your present now?"

He nodded avidly, "I can't imagine how anything could be better than what you've given me already."

Kate went to get his gift while Castle gathered their friends for one last surprise, "My wife tells me that she still hasn't given me my Christmas present yet. After everything that's happened tonight, I'm a little scared." Everyone laughed.

Castle looked around the room and none of the faces seemed to possess any more information about what might be coming than he did. When Kate came back, she had a white gift box wrapped in blue ribbon that was about the size of a piece of computer paper. Castle couldn't imagine what might be inside.

Kate's expression was reflective of her love for him, "Merry Christmas, Castle."

Castle gently pulled the ribbon from the box and hesitated before opening it. When he did, his eyes fell to what he could see beneath the tissue paper. It was a platinum frame and he could just make out the inscription along the bottom. Like their rings; it simply said ALWAYS.

He looked up at her as he was lifting his gift from the box. She was smiling at him in a way that he was certain she never had before and when he looked back at the frame, he knew why, "Kate." The man of words was at a complete and total loss, so he did the only thing that he could think of in response to the news and reached his hand out and placed it on Kate's stomach. She covered his hand with hers confirming the question in his eyes.

The significance of the interaction between the newlyweds spread quickly across the room and celebration resumed.

"How long have you known?" Castle had kneeled down in front of Kate and had both hands on her stomach.

Kate's eyes blurred as she gazed down at him, "I just found out for certain a couple of weeks ago. I had my suspicions though before that. I can't tell you how hard it was not to tell you right away, but I wanted it to be my gift to you for Christmas."

"I'm going to be a dad again," he seemed to be saying it aloud to make it more real. "How far along are you?"

"About 15 weeks," Kate met his eyes knowing what he was thinking.

"Who knew before tonight?" Castle was curious.

"It's our baby. I wasn't going to tell anyone before I told his father," Kate gently stroked his hair.

"A boy? We're having a son?" Kate hadn't realized that Castle could be any more excited.

"That's what the doctor said and he seemed pretty certain after viewing the sonogram," Kate couldn't believe how perfectly the night had gone.

Castle got to his feet trying to wrap his mind around the events of the evening. He felt as if he had received a lifetime of blessings in one night. He was surrounded by the best of friends and his family for Christmas, he had married the woman of his dreams, his father had come home, and he had just found out that he was having a son.

As he held Kate at his side, receiving congratulations from the most important people in his world, Castle couldn't help thinking how differently this could all have played out. It had all boiled down to one thing; his decision to forgive and her decision to stop running. Who would have thought that happiness could be just that simple?

O-O-O-O-O-O-O-O-O-O-O-

On May 30th, 2014, birth announcements went out to every single guest from the Christmas party welcoming Beckett Alexander Castle into the world at 7 pounds 3 ounces.

Even though it may seem the story has come to its end; in truth it has finally just begun.