Disclaimer: Don't own them, never will.
This is my first foray into the Castle fanfiction, and my first fanfiction I've put on this site in longer than I care to think about (more of a reader than a writer) so I hope it's not too dire and I hope you enjoy it.
Paper Over the Cracks
He couldn't believe he'd been so stupid, such a fool. She had completely sucked him in to believing that she felt the same way or, at least, was beginning to. As he sat back in his office chair, he was bombarded with all the moments, big and small, that had sucked him further in.
A talk on a set of swings, he thought she was talking about them.
The not so subtle comparisons between cop and journalist, it could be them.
Implants, talk of true love, the smiles.
Thinking like a real cop, even though he never will be.
Her jealousy over Serena and his interest in her, never mind her reaction to that kiss.
Saying what she didn't want, just because he said "please".
Threatening to shoot someone in the head if they hurt him, the look and smile before they were interrupted.
Her wanting to keep him with her when the boys went to New Jersey.
The thanks for letting her find her own was through her PTSD.
Handcuffs, "hold my hand", legs, "next time without the tiger".
Relief on her face, being each other's plus one, "maybe third times a charm".
Arguing because they both care about her job, Rick, meeting him despite her doubts.
Shared custody of a dog, a moment in her living room and a custody 'battle'.
Letting him have his fantasy and not tearing him a new one when he let it slip.
More jealousy, not so well hidden, almost dying, thanks for the save, standing for him, anguish in her voice when she thinks he's going to die.
Holding his hand while his mother continues her defamation of his character.
A slowly blooming smile that says she knows what he wants to say.
Looking back, he can see how easy it was for him to be duped, but she never said or did anything you wouldn't do or say to your best friend. He just read too much into it. Him and his damned writer's imagination.
He knew he needed to get over her, but had no idea how to do it. With Kyra he'd drunk, partied and met Meredith. With Meredith he'd drunk, partied and developed his playboy reputation. With Gina he'd drunk, partied and perfected his playboy persona...until he'd met her.
Maybe it was time for Richard Castle, playboy extraordinaire to come out once again. Less partying and drinking this time around, but he could still attract a few women, he's not that old or out of practice. Maybe that could help heal his shattered heart, or at least, paper over the cracks enough to help him forget her for a little while.
Author's Note: If you've taken the time to read this little story I would appreciate a few words, just to let me know if I should continue to try and find time to write or whether I should stick to reading.