Company
A Caskett AU
She's not looking for company - no small talk, not even eye contact and a pleasant half-smile - not after the day she's had. But when the other end of the bench gets a new occupant, Kate can't help but glance over to check out her companion, just to make sure their intentions are benign.
Recognition is almost instant, and her hand tightens around her coffee cup.
She's sitting beside Richard Castle, and he's even better looking than she remembers.
"Hi," she murmurs, amazed that the words tumble from her lips. He probably doesn't remember her - a one-night stand two years ago isn't exactly something that leaves a lasting impression, after all - but-
"Kate," he says, delight and surprise lighting his face. "It's good to see you."
He means that, she can tell, and her cheeks flush; somehow he still remembers her.
Her chin lowers, and she takes a moment to get a handle on herself. "It's good to see you, too," she says when she looks up again.
Castle grins, gesturing to the cup in her hand. "Buy you another? From somewhere warm and indoors, maybe?"
Dragging her teeth over her lip, Kate nods. "I'd like that."
A/N: This was previously posted on my tumblr as a double drabble for Fluffy Friday, hence the length. That said, there's more to the story and subsequent parts are longer! Thank you for reading!