AN: This is my first attempt at a Castle fic. It is my take on what happens after she tells him they are over – in the preview for the finale. I apologize for any errors, as I don't have a beta. As usual I don't owe anything and this is done purely for fun. Hope you all enjoy it! Please review, I am always striving to improve.
"We're over Castle!" She stated vehemently, eye glowing with anger. Her words hung in the air between them like so many motes of unwanted dust.
He had finally done it, pushed her too far. He was smart enough to know that anything he said now would fall upon deaf ears. He had known better than to come to her apartment to plead that she back off. But he just couldn't let her continue without saying something. He was terrified that she would share the same fate as all the others.
He had long ago resolved his feelings for her. He loved her, despite all the walls she erected around her heart. He knew that inside that seemingly tough inner shell lurked a tender heart. He had seen it numerous times, even though she tried desperately to hide it with sarcasm and insult. It was there, and he had hoped that he could reach it this evening.
He knew she hadn't meant the words, that she was desperate to gain control and put an end to her mother's case, a case that had tormented and haunted her for so long. Her world revolved around that case. It was the reason she kept everyone at arms distance. As long as she kept her distance she would never have to explain. But he had been able to get past some of her defenses and begin to learn who the real Kate Beckett was.
He also knew when the tactical advantage was retreat. That was this moment.
"Get out." She said her voice barely above a furious whisper.
Holding up his hands in surrender he answered quietly, "I'll go. But I know you don't really mean that. Whatever it is we might or might not be, above everything else, I know that we are friends. And whether you want to hear it or not, I care about what happens to you. So just remember that as you continue this suicide mission of yours. Whenever you need me, I'll be there. Always."
With that he stepped around her, opened the door and walked out.