Kate recalls the first time she met Castle.
After the afterglow of their lovemaking has dimmed Kate turns her head and regards Castle's sleeping face, "do you know what today is love," she whispers?
Of course not, how could you. It is the anniversary of the first day I met you. Of course you don't remember. I was one of many for you, but you were the only one for me.
It was another cold wet Saturday after Thanksgiving. I stood in line for hours for an autograph at one of your book signing. Do you remember the book? It was the first one with Sophia as your muse you know when you introduced Clara Stark.
Before then I only read your books. I got lost in your words and the deeds that our heroes performed and their triumph over great odds. It was like you writing to me for me. I had to meet you. You gave me courage. You saved me.
I was adrift. Mom had died; Dad had retreated into a bottle and I was alone, so very much alone. Then there you were. When I read your stories I was able to lose myself for a little while. They anchored me and helped me cope with my loss. You helped me find myself. You helped me cope enough to help my Dad. You helped me cope enough to get through college, return to NYC and hunt for my Mom's killer. You know, you helped me find you. It's like we were meant to be together.
When I read your books I thought you were a god, and I had to meet you. When I finally meet you I wanted to tell you how much you had helped me, but all I could say was "Kate." And when I saw you, you were just a man. I had expected more but what I found was a vain, egotistical man. I was disappointed but then I read the first chapter and still you captured me. You helped me survive and grow strong. You helped me find my inner strength and for that I am externally in your debt.
And now I get to help you. Tonight when you came out of your den after writing you looked lost and depressed and you sat all the way down there. I moved and made you hold me. Slowly you returned to me. With a touch your face lights up. After a while a touch turns into a caress, next a kiss, and finally to caring sex.
Over the years I have gotten to know the man you truly are. Vain, sometimes. Egotistical sometimes, but you are a whole lot more. And even now you still help me. You make my job easier. Your companionship strengths me, and I know I am never alone. Even though you had to 'work' today and your chair was empty, it wasn't. When we needed you, you were there and inspired us, and yes we caught the bad guy.
There is no need for you to know how special this day is to me. I can keep this secret safe. I will always make this day special for us.
Sleep well my love. Tomorrow will be another special day I promise.
