A/N: Hey guys. As part of my "writer's block" with "Saving Grace," I felt really bad for leaving you guys on a limb. So, I decided to start on a series of one-shots to keep you going till I can figure out how to continue "Saving Grace."
Kate woke up with a start. She had a really terrible nightmare and she couldn't shake off the feeling of gut wrenching fear it had left.
She had lost him.
All because she had dug into her mother's case.
He had warned her something would happen if she dug into her mother's case.
But in her dream, she hadn't listened and lost him as a result.
It was him hanging on the rooftop. Not her.
She couldn't reach him in time. She watched him fall to his death, screaming her name in agony.
Her breathing evened out and she realized her companion was sitting up next to her, genuine concern on his face.
"It's okay Rick. It was just a really bad dream."
"Do you want to talk about it?" Rick asked, slowly, warily.
"I lost you."
It came out as a whisper; Rick straining his ears to catch those three painful words.
"I lost you and it was my fault. I dug into my mother's case and they shot you and-"
"Shh," Rick cut her off, gently placing a kiss on her lips, "It was just a nightmare. I'm here and I won't leave you again, I promise."
"I'm sorry for not listening to you yesterday, Castle. I shouldn't have gone rogue. I should have just listened to you."
Rick trapped Kate in a hug, rocking her back and forth, back and forth.
"I'm so sorry. I'm so sorry." She repeated over and over, much like she had the rainy night before.
"Shhh. It's over now Kate. You're safe now. I won't let them hurt you."
Rick continued to utter words of comfort until he felt Kate relax in his embrace.
"I love you."
It didn't matter who said it; both meant the sentiment.
Rick shifted so that they were lying down.
Back in the warmth and comfort of his bed.
Kate shifted to settle into his side, clinging to him like her life depended on it.
No more words were said, just gentle caresses and soft touches.
Giving and taking.
The storm from the evening before slowed; now there was a light drizzle outside.
Eventually, the pitter-patter of the rain lulled the duo back to sleep.
Right in each other's arms.
Right where they belonged.
Always.