Hi everyone. So this is my first multi-chapter fic in the castle verse and I'm a little nervous about it because it's also AU but the idea gripped me and wouldn't go away. So thousands of words later I know where it's going now and it's time to start posting it. This begins at the end of Episode 2.05 When the Bough Breaks.

Prologue

Case solved. All I wanted to do was breathe a sigh of relief. Now I could go home take a hot bath and read my book. Life could be as uncomplicated as that if I really wanted it to be. Nevertheless, it's not and there's the little matter of not knowing what was next for Castle. Nikki Heat had launched last night and there were rave reviews pouring in, but this was it he'd written the book and there was no need for him to follow me around anymore. Besides, he'd gotten the offer for writing three books for the Jams Bond series, and I could see the little twinkle in his eye when he'd mentioned it. He was so excited at the thought that nothing else really mattered he was going to be responsible for the future of James Bond. If that wasn't right up Richard Castle's alley than nothing was.

"Thank you Castle. I would have never been able to solve this case without your help." I told him as we descended the stairs into the lobby and he just looked at me shocked that I would ever say those words. "Well, ah, good luck on your new book. I know that you'll do it proud." I said as we came to a stop in the lobby.

"Thanks." Was all he managed to say as we looked at each other for what felt like eternity before he finally extended his hand to shake mine. I looked at it in disbelief that this was really how it was going to end, before giving up and shaking his hand. "You take care of yourself." He told me looking right into my eyes disappointment apparent in them even as a smile graced his face.

I couldn't help but smile back at him, realizing that this was really important to him. And, maybe it really was what he was meant to do. "I'm looking forward to reading your take on a certain British spy, Castle. I'm sure you will do a wonderful job of it just like all your other novels." I told him honestly. I had nothing left to lose, besides I'm fairly certain he already knew how much of a fan I was and had graciously never really mentioned it.

"Well Detective I'm flattered. I do believe that is the nicest thing you've ever said to me." And for once in his life he did look flattered and not like it was adding to his already sizable ego.

"The occasion called for it Castle since this is our last case together." I told him still trying to decide if I was happy or sad about this. My brain was telling me that this was cause to celebrate, my heart on the other hand felt like it was getting a little broken which was completely silly. I did what any sane detective would do, I sent him on his way. "It was nice getting to know you Castle," I held out a hand for him to shake again.

I was rewarded with both of his large hands wrapping around my, what now felt like, significantly smaller one. "A pleasure getting to know you Detective. Thank you for letting me follow you around." He said sincerely giving my hand a gentle squeeze before releasing my hand.

"Goodbye Castle." I managed to say without my voice cracking with emotion that I didn't really need to think about.

He responded in his usual writterly way, "Until we meet again Detective." And he turned on his heel and strode out of my life.

I watched him go torn between wishing that he would stay and absolutely relieved that I would never have to have CIA posited as a theory for every case again. It was certainly a chapter in my life, and one that I could say was quiet enjoyable. But as I made my way back to the squad car my head started a mantra of you don't need Castle, which followed me all the way back to the precinct.

Well there's the first installment. Castle and Beckett are off on their own paths.

I'd love to hear your thoughts no that much if you're inclined to share. Otherwise stay posted and there will be more soon.

Babyrose15