Castle smiled faintly. "Don't mention it. I'm following you around to gather material for my novels. By the way, I have some good news. My agent told me the publisher wants more than just one 'Nikki Heat' novel. They're asking for a trilogy. So, instead of following you for just one book, I'll be around for a bit longer!"
"What? A trilogy? Didn't your agreement with the police specify the number of books and the duration?" Beckett was surprised, but oddly, she didn't feel much resistance. Perhaps it was because Castle's help had significantly increased her case-solving efficiency recently. Beckett was surprised but didn't object.
Castle explained with a grin, "The outline and the opening chapters of the first 'Nikki Heat' novel, which I recently sent to the publisher, have been deemed potentially another bestseller. There aren't many books on the market that detail real police investigations. Even if there are, most were written a long time ago, and there's little depiction of modern police work. Surveys show readers are very interested in the realistic portrayal of police procedures. So, the publisher and my agent want to sign a new contract for a 'Nikki Heat' trilogy.
The publisher has also talked to the NYPD Commissioner, who supports the positive depiction of the police. I think you and Captain Montgomery will soon receive the official notification."
Beckett didn't comment further. Her mind was more focused on whether Esposito and Ryan, sent to Dr. Joshua's clinic, could find evidence that he indeed performed plastic surgery on Jimmy Moran, who was in the witness protection program. If it was confirmed, Beckett could find a way to contact Moran through the US Marshals or the US Attorney's Office. Since the murder method was Moran's signature, he might have information on the killer mimicking his style.
At that moment, Captain Roy Montgomery, his balding head peeking out of his office, saw Castle and Beckett talking and hesitated before calling them both into his office.
"Captain, what's the matter? I've already sent Esposito and Ryan to the victim's clinic to get his surgery records and talk to his head nurse and assistants," Beckett began, assuming Montgomery wanted an update on the case.
Montgomery wasn't interested in the case details. "I trust you with the investigation since you're handling it. I need to talk about Mr. Castle."
Montgomery looked at Beckett. "I just got off the phone with the Commissioner. The Commissioner said Castle's publisher and the Mayor both requested that Castle extend his time with us to gather more material for a trilogy. The Commissioner ordered that Castle continue partnering with you to gather material for his books. Please cooperate."
Montgomery, considerate towards his trusted subordinates, didn't issue a strict order but instead seemed to discuss the matter with Beckett.
"Oh, that. Captain, Castle already mentioned it outside. I have no objections. Moreover, Castle just provided a significant lead in last night's case, so you can rest assured I have no resistance. And, Captain, I hope Castle doesn't get into trouble during our investigations," Beckett responded respectfully, though her last remark was directed at Castle.
Castle, who had been quietly listening, grinned when he heard Beckett had no objections to his continued presence. He didn't argue against her jab about not getting into trouble but continued to smile.
Montgomery was pleased that Beckett showed respect and could keep the unruly Castle in check. He supported Castle joining Beckett's team since it had significantly increased their case-solving rate. He was fully aware of Castle's surprising insights and their aid in investigations. As long as the case-solving rate improved, tolerating Castle's occasional antics was a small price to pay.
After saying goodbye to Montgomery, Beckett and Castle returned to her desk. Beckett, rarely showing such sentiment, told Castle, "Mr. Castle, I appreciate your efforts in helping us solve cases over the past month. If you can ensure that you follow my orders and stay safe during investigations, our cooperation can continue. I hope our partnership lasts long. Understand?"
Castle smiled to himself. Finally, he was getting through to her.
Castle knew Beckett well. She was highly responsible and dedicated to her work. His help and occasional spoilers had made her and Montgomery recognize his value, so they didn't mind extending his involvement. This indicated he was gradually earning Beckett's trust.
Pleased with his progress, Castle replied, "Of course. I won't cause any trouble. I also hope our cooperation lasts 'forever.'" He emphasized "forever," but Beckett didn't notice, distracted by a call from Esposito.
"Beckett, we're at Dr. Joshua's clinic. His head nurse and two other nurses deny he performed plastic surgery on Jimmy Moran. We found no evidence in the clinic's public records to confirm Joshua worked on Moran..."
Beckett pondered the information, but Castle, who overheard, grabbed the phone from her. "Esposito, I suggest you thoroughly search Dr. Joshua's office, especially his drawers and desk. I still believe his death is linked to Jimmy Moran. Trust me..."
Beckett wasn't annoyed at Castle for taking the phone. She was more curious about his firm conviction.
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