Kate awoke to subtle daylight trickling into the room with a serene luster. It didn't take long for her mind to resume the inciting string of thought that had lulled her to sleep. A smile immediately decorated her face. She released a contented sigh as she mulled over her suspicions with cautious anticipation. She curled up closer to Castle. Pausing to absorb his warmth while basking in the familiarity of his intoxicating scent. If she were being honest, her illness hadn't relented in the least bit, but her outlook had become more optimistic.

It didn't take long for a renewed slumber to steal Kate away. Being near Castle always evoked deep serenity and relaxation. The next time she awoke it was to Castle dusting her brow with a reverent kiss. "Hello, beautiful." He smiled with sincerity.

"Hey, you." Kate answered, her voice hoarse. She returned his pleased expression then brought her adoring palm to his cheek.

"I'm sorry to wake you, but I just wanted to check on you before Lex and I head to the movie."

"What time is it?"

"Quarter after noon."

Kate hated that she'd slept in so late. It was a waste of a day and so unlike her. "What?!"

"I guess you needed it. It's not surprising considering how sick you've been."

"Yeah, I supposed that you're right." She replied somewhat distant. "I'll be fine. Thanks for checking on me, babe."

"Always." He beamed then leaned in to kiss her. "We'll be back soon. I love you."

"I love you too."

With her husband and daughter out of the house Kate had the opportunity to test the validity of her suspicions. The trip to the store was more of a struggle than she would have liked, so she was glad to be back at the loft. With the bag in hand, Kate immediately made her way into the master bathroom. After taking the necessary measures it was time for the difficult part. Waiting. Kate collapsed onto the bed casting a distant stare to the ceiling as she fought her innate impatience. Several minutes later her phone startled her. The repetitive beep notifying her of her expended timer. She felt nervous yet impatient as she approached the bathroom counter where three plastic sticks lay. Her heart sank as she processed the results each had produced.

Her first instinct was to lie back down and attempt to metabolize her thoughts and feelings on what had just taken place. As she proceeded to do so she heard the door close and Castle shout, "Hello. We're home." It was obvious she'd lost track of time. Her husband's impromptu return prompted her rise to her feet and meet Castle before he could come to her.

"Hey, babe. How was the movie?" She asked from the doorway of the master bedroom. Confusion spread over her expression when she didn't see Alexis.

"It was okay."

"Where's Lex?"

"Oh, she's in her room playing with a new toy that I may have gotten her…" Castle admitted with a twinge of guilt.

"So I have you to myself for a moment then?"

"Why yes you do. Care to make the most of it?" He teased.

"Yes. Join me in our room?"

"I like the way you think, Mrs. Castle."

Castle watched Kate disappear into the bedroom and moved with haste to join her, surprised when he didn't find her on the bed. "Where'd you go, Kate – " he said peering into the bathroom. "Ah, there you are."

"Rick, we need to talk about something."

"Okay." He said trying not to allow his wife's serious tone worry him.

"I think I know why I've been sick."

"Care to share your theory with the class?"

"Let's just say my illness is more your fault than Alexis'."

"I'm afraid you've lost me, my dear."

"Rick – look." Kate said shifting her position to reveal the contents of the counter. As soon as his attention was where she'd directed it his face lit up and he released a delighted chuckle which solicited a smile from her.

"No – are you serious?!"

Her only response was to nod with vigor. Her confirmation caused him to sprint over to embrace her, his lips unable to part from her head.

"So, I take it you're happy?"

"I'm having a baby with the love of my life. Happy is a gross understatement, my love."

"We already have one baby, remember?" She interjected.

"You know what I mean."

"Yes I do." She hummed then kissed him. "I have one other question for you."

"What's that?"

"How do you want to tell Lex?"