Backstory for Zoe Washburne

For a challenge at gameofcards, to write a backstory for a character. I picked one of my favorites, Zoe Alleyne Washburne. I've touched on this headcanon about the seven year thing elsewhere, but this is a past!fic, of course, so see what you think.

Zoe, Before
Fandom: Firefly
Rating: G
Word count: 885

( Taking a deep breath... )

New Year's Resolutions

For a challenge at gameofcards, to come up with New Year's Resolutions for some favorite characters. I bring you...Castle Resolutions!

“So glad you could all join us for Epiphany!” Martha raised her glass to those present. “And in the spirit of our tradition on this day, we will ask each of you to make a promise for the year ahead.” She took a sip of champagne and smiled brilliantly around the room. “You mean a … New Year’s Resolution, Martha?” Beckett looked warily over the rim of her glass. “Isn’t that a little…old school?”

Martha waved a hand airily. “Call it what you like, my dear. A tradition’s a tradition. So on with it. You first.”

Beckett looked toward Castle and her expression turned misty. “Well, with all that happened last year, I resolve to make this year nice and peaceful. Homey.” Castle’s eyes softened, and she pointed at him. “You next!’

“Easy one,” said Castle confidently. “I firmly resolve to make a huuuuge success of my private detective business.” He twirled an imaginary mustache as some in the group groaned. He turned on the loudest groaner and growled, “Okay, Mr. Grumpy Pants. You go.”

Espo preened. “No problem, bro. I’m making a promise that I will place numero uno in the New York City’s Police League Athletic Championships, and get a shot at Nationals. What?” he questioned, as Ryan sputtered. “You’d better learn to swim, then, partner. Last year you sank like a stone.” Espo glared. “Just for that, you go next, partner.”

Ryan looked thoughtful and squeezed Jenny’s hand. “My resolution is to be a good dad. Raise healthy and happy kids.” He bent to give Jenny a kiss as the room shrieked. “KIDSSS?” expostulated Beckett. “You mean…..????”

Jenny elbowed Ryan but looked delighted. “Way to go, Kev, motor mouth. Yes,” gazing around at the happy expressions, “we are pregnant again!” As the others surged forward to hug and back-pat, she continued on, “so my resolution is to have an easy pregnancy and short labor this September!”

Lanie finished clapping and declared, “Well MY promise to myself is to go on at least one date per week. I’m gonna find my prince. Even if it means I have to kiss some frogs.” Perhaps unconsciously her gaze settled on Esposito, who waggled his eyebrows, making her laugh.

Alexis twirled on her stool and raised her hand in the air. “Mine’s easy,” she proclaimed. “I’m going to make the most of my year in London. Do everything, see everything, experience everything!” “Everything?” began Castle, bleatingly, but Beckett silenced him with a jab to the side. Alexis smirked at her father, then turned to her grandmother. “And how about you, Grams? What’s your promise for 2015?”

Martha struck a pose, but her eyes were filled with genuine warmth. “Same as every year, my darling. To always remember my motto. ‘If you’re going to do something, do it big, or don’t do it at all.’” She grinned and bowed as the others broke into cheers and applause.