Work Text:
In the bustling streets of Munich during the vibrant autumn of 2007, the world-famous Oktoberfest is in full swing. Amid the sea of lederhosen and cheerful music, Rick Castle towers over the crowd at 6'2", his eyes gleaming with excitement. Drawn in by the tantalizing aroma of sizzling sausages, he’s more than eager to immerse himself in the lively atmosphere. Kevin Ryan is at his side, his green eyes scanning the festive atmosphere with interest. The shorter man keeps track of his boyfriend as he weaves through the festive crowd, though he breaks into a run when Rick ducks beneath a colorful fluttering banner.
“Have you tried the pretzels yet?” Rick asks, emerging from the tent. “They are a must!”
“I think I’ll stick to the beer for now,” Kevin says, proudly hoisting a gigantic mug like a reveler.
“One bite won’t kill yo~u,” he sing-songs with his infectious enthusiasm.
Kev smiles but obligingly takes a bite when Rick waves it in his face. The flavor explodes on his tongue, and he meets his boyfriend’s knowing look.
“That is amazing.”
“Right?”
The aroma of sizzling bratwurst breaks up the pretzel love, and Rick’s eyes sparkle mischievously. Ryan tries not to spill his beer as he chases Castle into the authentic German brews and sausages tent on the far left. He watches as the older man plays a little game, taste-testing mystery brews.
“It seems your taste in beer matches your taste in novels, eh, Rick?”
Rick laughs shortly, and Kevin leads him to a wooden table adorned with bright blue and white checkered tablecloths, surrounded by jovial festival-goers beneath a canopy of fairy lights. The sounds of an oompah band fill the air, setting the perfect backdrop for their date. Kevin sighs, relaxing against the writer’s shoulder.
"Thanks for bringing me here, Rick."
Rick raises his glass, a warm smile gracing his lips. "To new traditions with my favorite Irishman."
"To Oktoberfest, where mysteries unravel and relationships grow stronger," Kevin clinks their glasses.
The lights on the carousel nearby cast a soft glow as the sun dips down. A group of dancers in traditional Bavarian attire approaches the stage, and Kevin notices them first.
“Dare you to join them, Rick.”
He gawks at the younger man in mock horror before grinning. “You’re on, Kev,” he holds out his hand as though for a bet, “But only if you join me.”
Under the twinkling lights and the music of the traditional Oompah band, Rick pulls Kevin alongside him, and the men happily dance together.