A/N: I would like to apologize for the delay everyone. Between work and trying to find time, family and other commitments I have been extremely busy. So I would like to thank you all for your patience and support as this story continues. So please enjoy the latest update, and as always please leave reviews.

Chapter 9

1500

September 8th, 1943

Washington, D.C.

Castle shifted in his seat. The meeting had gone on longer than it should have been. They were planning the admiral's trip to the United Kingdom to attend a conference on the after action on the Sicily campaign and see how the new training standards had helped in that particular campaign went. Problem was there was also a conference in San Diego on the war in the Pacific, that the admiral wanted to attend, but couldn't. So they had spent the better part of the meeting determining who would go to the conference in San Diego. Castle would have been the obvious choice but Admiral Patterson needed him in England at that conference. Worst of all the schedule since New York had been pretty busy leaving Castle very little time to investigate on what Carter had told him about Sorenson. Between trips to shipyards, naval bases weapons manufacturing, training centers, meetings, his command courses, and the administrative and duties of being an executive officer left him little time. The only bright spots to the crazy schedule was going home to his family. So far the longest he has been away from them since taking this assignment has been two and half weeks, and that trip ended last week. He smiled on the inside remembering how Kate had greeted him when he….

"Commander Castle, travel arrangements?" Admiral Patterson asked him breaking up the day dream that he was having. Everyone, including the admiral, chuckled as Castle blushed. "Sorry to interrupt your daydreaming but we have business to attended to. So the travel arrangements?"

"Yes sir." Castle answered clearing his throat as everyone chuckled again. He brought up his notepad. "Lt. Commander Donaldson and Lt. Patrick will be attending the San Diego Conference in our place admiral. I had Tyler book them on Triple-A priority. They'll be leaving two days before the conference and have rooms book at the transient officers' quarters in San Diego."

"Oh two nights in San Diego, thank you Commander." Lt. Patrick answered with a smile on his face. His comment made everyone laugh. "How long before our return flight?"

Castle smirked right back at Lt. Patrick. "Next day."

Now Lt. Commander Donaldson piped up with a huge smile on his face. "Then I'll echo Lt. Patrick's statement. Thank you Commander."

Everyone in the office laughed including Castle. Then Sorenson looked at Castle. "What about our flight to England there Commander?"

"That is the one hiccup we have admiral." Castle replied as he looked past Sorenson. He cleared his throat as Admiral Patterson looked at him curiously. "All flights to England are currently booked. Even with our priority, I can't get a seat for any of us."

"Surely you must be mistaken Commander." Sorenson answered curtly. He smirked at him. "There must be some lowly lieutenant or Army Captain we can bump off the flight?"

"This is a high level conference and only so many seats there Sorenson." Castle countered as he now looked at Sorenson. He then looked back to Admiral Patterson. "Along with only so many planes at the moment that can make that flight. And it's not just military folks that are heading over there, you have a few Congressman, and Senators heading over to do an inspection for the next Lend-Lease Bill coming up as well as press. I don't think you want to piss off any members of Congress sir."

Sorenson scoffed. "Congress can go pis…."

"Enough Will, and Commander Castle is right. I don't want Congressmen or Senators going to the President saying we bumped them or a member of the staff off a flight." Admiral Patterson replied. He sighed and looked at the Calendar. "We have a week and half before the conference. Is there anything available commander?"

Castle nodded. "You may like it sir, but Sorenson wont. There is a flag cabin available aboard a cruiser departing from New York exactly 5 days from today that has room."

Sorenson looked panicked now and Castle caught on, but Sorenson didn't notice this. "Sir, I can take the next flight, or be on standby in case someone doesn't show. Or I could run the office while you and Commander Castle…"

"Stop Will." Admiral Patterson said to Sorenson. He turned to look to Sorenson. "This is a high level meeting and I need you with me. I do not want to attend this conference without my aide. Do I make myself clear?"

Sorenson nodded weakly. "Yes sir."

"Good." Admiral Patterson answered. He then turned to Castle. He took a breath before continuing. "Are you sure there is nothing else Rick?"

"I got us on a standby basis sir, but even the transportation office at Anacostia doesn't hold out that much hope. As for our return from the conference, that has to be arranged over in England Admiral" Castle replied. He shifted in his seat as the admiral nodded. He ignored Sorenson's look before he went on. "I'll check every day sir, but the Naval Yard is holding that flag cabin for you and berthing spaces for us until one day before the sailing. Should I book it?"

"Go ahead, and you know what take our names off standby at the airfield. A sea voyage will do me some good." Admiral Patterson responded. The staff chuckled as Sorenson looked more panicked now. Admiral Patterson chuckled as well. "Call your doctor Will and get a handy supply of motion sickness meds."

"Yes sir." Sorenson replied quietly.

Admiral Patterson turned back to the staff. "Alright, that is all Gentlemen. Commander Castle are your instructors ok with you leaving?"

Castle nodded. "Yes admiral. They gave the work I need to do while we are gone, and what will be covered."

Admiral Patterson nodded his approval. "Good. Now make the transportation arrangements to New York for everyone, and let me know by the time we go home today."

"Aye sir." Castle replied. He stood up and came to attention before leaving the office. He was looked sternly at Sorenson who nodded curtly towards the hallway. "What do you want Sorenson?"

"I know for a fact you have something on me, otherwise you would bump a congressmen from the flight." Sorenson accused Castle. He leaned forward in Castle's face. He was surprised when Castle didn't back down. "What do you have? Out with it or help me I will…"

"You threatening me Lt. Commander." Castle replied not backing down. This time he leaned forward and Sorenson was the one who backed down. "I could have brought you down a long time ago for your affair but I didn't, because I have respect for the women's husband who I served with, and secondly call the damn transportation office yourself, and you will get the same answers I have been."

Sorenson cowered a little bit, so Castle decided to press. "You better watch your back Sorenson, because you never know who or what will expose you for the person you really are."

Castle walked back into the office knowing that Sorenson was afraid now that his family's secret may come back and bite him in the ass.

1800

Castle walked into the house later than he normally would of a week day, but getting the final details of the trip nailed down had taken awhile. Of course Sorenson wasn't that much of a help after he had confronted Castle. He had disappeared claiming to go to his doctors to get the medication, but Castle suspected it was to go and hide or contact his parents. Either way it made the task of completing everything just a tad bit harder. Castle shook his head as he heard Kate coming from the kitchen. "You're late babe. Everything ok?"

Castle nodded. "Yep. Just wrapping the final details for the trip with the admiral that's all."

"The one where you absolutely got to go." Kate asked smirking as she came over as he turned around and nodded. She laughed as she saw her mouth drop. She was wearing a deep blue figure hugging dress that suited her well. Her hair fell naturally, and she was wearing light makeup. "Close your mouth commander. You'll catch flies."

"You look fantastic." Castle replied. He came over and took her into his arms, and kissed her deeply. She melted into him like always. The need for air broke them a moment later. "Where's Rick Jr?"

"Our dear neighbor Susan took him for the night, so it's just me and you." Kate replied as she grinned. The same grinned that made his heart always race a mile a minute. "Now I have dinner from Delgado's warming in the oven, and wine waiting to be poured."

"Since it's just us tonight, I have a different idea." Castle answered. He scooped Kate up into his arms and carried her upstairs and into their bedroom. Two hours later, they walked into the kitchen wearing nothing but their robes, pulling the warm dinner from the oven. As Kate sat down, Castle opened the wine bottle. "The trip, without going into details, we'll be leaving out of New York next week."

"I thought you couldn't find a flight Rick?" Kate asked as she watched her husband pour a glass of wine. She then saw his expression. "Oh. So it would be a longer trip."

Castle nodded. "But I figured you guys can come up to New York a couple days before we leave, and drop me off at the pier depending on what time I have to be there."

Kate nodded but he could see the sadness on her face. She put on a smile. "It's just that I would worry more about you crossing the Atlantic say the Pacific you know. Everything I read about the war out there and knowing….."

"Hey Kate, I understand, and it be the same for me if you were crossing." Castle answered coming over and sitting down across from her. He reached out and took her hands. "But if they decided to attack a convoy, well I would put my money on the US Navy. We learned our lessons. Trust me I know."

"I do, but it is still going to worry me." Kate answered. She gave a warm small smile and leaned in and kissed him lightly. "I guess I have to figure out what to do for the next 14 plus days."

Castle nodded and tossed her a sly smile. "Well maybe we should eat this good looking meal and drink this expensive wine and go back for a round two?"

"Two?" Kate laughed as she picked up a piece of garlic bread and placed it in his mouth. "It will be round 3 babe."

They shared a laughed as Castle fed her a piece of the garlic bread now too. Kate scooped up a bit of her pasta and fed it to Castle. She smiled at him as he chewed the food. "A letter came from Alexis today. She finished up her nursing course. She should have her assignment soon."

Castle smiled as he swallowed the delicious food. He sipped at his wine. "That's good. I am still hoping for a stateside assignment."

"Me too Rick." Kate replied to his statement taking a bite out of her dinner. She washed it down with some wine. "Maybe you can ask Admiral Patterson to…."

Castle shook his head. "No. I don't want any strings pulled for her. One she would hate us, and two, she wants to serve in her own right. I can respect that. But trust me it crossed my mind too."

Kate nodded her understanding. She loved Alexis like she was her own, and treated her pretty much like it. She saw how much it worried her husband, and it show him how much it worried her. She sighed and sipped the wine. "Guess we'll have to let her do that then."

"Yeah we do." Castle answered. He leaned in and gave Kate a kiss. He took her hand. "Come on Kate. We can finish dinner in a little while."

Kate smiled as she allowed him to pull her up. "Oh, time for round 3."

Castle smiled as he pulled her close and kissed her deeply. He then put his forehead against her. "Yes ma'am."

They laughed as they walked to the stairs and back upstairs again.

0730

September 13th, 1943

Brooklyn, New York

The car pulled to a stop just outside the main gate of the Brooklyn Navy Yard. Castle opened the passenger door and got out. He opened the rear passenger door as Jim also climbed out of the driver side. Kate climbed out of the back carrying baby Rick in her arms. His birthday had just came past, and they had celebrated Saturday with the neighbors and other children in the neighborhood before they left on the train for New York. Jim was glad to host them for a couple nights and had taken time off work to spend with Kate and baby Rick in DC, considering he had not taken a vacation in almost 3 years. So as Rick adjusted the cover on his head, Jim opened the trunk and brought out the seabag and uniform bag. He grunted at the weight. "Geez Rick, what do you got in here?"

Rick laughed as he walked around and picked up the seabag in one hand and shook his father in law's hand. "More than enough for 3 weeks. Trust me."

Jim laughed and clasped his son in law on the shoulder. "Be safe on the trip across, and come home soon."

Rick nodded and smiled at him before turning his attention to Kate and baby Rick. Kate had tears in her eyes, so he walked on over and took baby Rick from her. "Hey dear it will be ok. Trust me."

"I know, but its like the time you went to fill in on the Washington." Kate answered as she hooked her arm through his. She took a breath to calm herself. "I'll be ok, and I know you'll be fine."

"That I will be. Trust me, I don't think I be under any air attacks." Castle said half heartily. He kissed the top of her head, but deep inside him he did have a worry about the U-boats. While diminishing, the threat was still there. So he turned and kissed his son on the cheek. "See you bud in three weeks."

"Da, da." Rick Jr, said reaching for the cover perched on his father's head.

Castle laughed as he kissed his son's cheek one more time. "That's me kiddo. I'll be back soon."

He then passed him off to Jim who gladly accepted him. He then went to Kate and pulled her into his arms. "I'll miss you most of all."

"You better." Kate answered. She pulled him in for a deep loving kiss. It broke a few moments later as she wiped some of her lipstick off his lips. She lightly kissed him one more time. "Stay safe and hurry home soon babe."

"Always." Castle answered with a smile and a light kiss of his own. He turned and shook his father in law's hand one more time, ran his hand through Rick Jr's hair once more before picking up his bags and starting to the gate. He waved good bye once more once he was inside before making his way down to the ship. A few minutes later he was at the gangplank. He over looked the cruiser docked there, and a brief smile came to his lips. He then walked up the gang plank, stopping at the quarterdeck, setting his bags down, saluted and walked aboard. Again at the OOD he set the bags down and produced his ID and orders. "Commander Richard Castle, with Admiral Patterson's staff."

The OOD looked over the ID and orders, and then his own paper work before looking up. "Yes sir. Welcome aboard Commander. The admiral left word he will be here at 8 and request you make sure everything is taken care of."

"Very well Lieutenant." Castle replied as he looked around the cruiser. He then noticed a young seaman coming over here and tossed a look at the Lieutenant. "Lieutenant?"

"I called him sir. You and the admiral's aide will be housed in flag staff cabin, while the Admiral has his own cabin." The Lieutenant replied to Castle's question. He saw Castle relax, so he turned to the seaman. "Peterson, grab the commanders bag and show him to the cabin."

The sailor nodded. "Aye sir. Commander if you will follow me please?"

"Thank you Lieutenant. Lead on seaman." Castle answered. He nodded to the Lieutenant as the seaman picked up his bags and started off. Castle followed the seaman towards the superstructure of the ship. But unlike the Washington, they went down a ladder and into the interior of the cruiser. A couple minutes later they stopped outside a particular statement. Castle nodded his thanks to the seaman. "Thank you Seaman."

"You're welcome sir." The young man replied. He came to attention and left Castle alone.

Castle opened the hatch and walked into the stateroom. He shook his head at the size of the room. Four bunks and lockers attached to the wall, long with two desks with lamps. He stuck his head out and looked across the hall, and there was a second room marked for flag staff. He chuckled as he set his bags on one of the racks. "Been spoiled by the Arizona and Washington."

Ten minutes later, Castle walked out of the quarters and down the passageway towards what he presumed was the galley. He the galley open and the last of the sailors were having breakfast. He turned and across the hall, he found the wardroom. He opened it and walked in. There was only one officer in there, sitting at a table going over paperwork. Castle walked on over. "Commander Donaldson?"

The man sitting at the table looked up and then got to his feet. They shook hands. "Oh you must be Commander Castle. Welcome aboard. Please sit."

"Thank you." Castle replied as he sat down across from the man. He looked over the paperwork. "Administrative matters. I'm getting a real taste of what that like."

Commander Donaldson chuckled as he closed the folders. "Well being part of a staff is a lot of paper pushing. But from what I heard about you, you rather be at sea than Washington."

Castle nodded. "Yep, but the admiral is understanding of that and trying for me to become qualified for command. I am taking some courses and they are putting a lot of information at us."

"I hear that. I'm taking mine by mail as executive officer. I have only taken a couple courses ashore when we have gone in for overhauls or repairs." Commander Donaldson answered. He leaned back in his chair. "I'm hoping for assignment for my own ship to come down soon."

"Me too." Castle answered. They both shared a chuckle. Castle looked at his watch before looking back up. "I would like more time to chat, but the admiral is coming aboard soon."

Commander Donaldson nodded. "Of course. Everything is set. We like the fact the admiral has taste pretty much like ours, except for the milk. We are keeping that in a separate cooler for him."

Castle nodded his understanding. "Thank you for that. The admiral likes his skim milk in the mornings."

"Not a problem." Commander Donaldson replied with a smile on his face. He got up, went to the counter, poured himself and Castle a coffee and brought it back over. Castle nodded his thanks as Commander Donaldson sat back down. "Believe it or not we had a general that wanted nothing but steak and eggs, chicken and ribs while he was on board."

"You're kidding?" Castle asked as he sipped his coffee.

Commander Donaldson shook his head. "I shit you not, and he had a member of his staff guard it at all times like we were going to steal it. Then we docked in Oran, he had what was left over shipped ashore, never bothering asking us if we would like it."

"God." Castle exclaimed. He looked around for a moment. "If it was me, I would have taken a good amount to feed the crew all at once."

"Oh we did manage to get our hands on enough steak and ribs for the crew." Commander Donaldson chuckled. He again leaned back in his chair. "We bribed a transportation sergeant to have a couple cases to fall off the back of a truck."

They both laughed at the story. Castle again checked his watch. He finished off the coffee and got up taking it to the mess attendant who was standing by before coming back over. "I better go meet the admiral at the gangplank. Good to meet you Commander."

"I'll come with Commander Castle." Commander Donaldson rose and did the same thing before joining Castle. "I have to brief the skipper anyway."

Castle nodded and they left the wardroom heading towards the main deck talking along the way, getting to know each other a little better. A couple minutes later they were by the gangplank at the quarterdeck as the bell rang three times, and a bousn announced over the ship intercom system. "Commander, USS Augusta, arriving. Admiral US Navy Training Command, arriving."

Then the bousn blew his whistle as the ships company who gathered at the side came to attention and saluted the captain of the August and Admiral Patterson aboard. Sorenson looked nervous as he saw Castle standing by the executive officer of the ship at the end of the line sailors and chiefs decked out in their whites. Salutes were given as the captain and the Admiral walked down line of sailors. The Captain shook hands with Commander Donaldson. "Patrick. How's it looking?"

"Everything is set sir." Commander Donaldson answered. He turned to Castle standing next to him. "Captain Turner, Commander Castle. Executive officer of Admiral Patterson's command, and man behind the changes in our gunnery training."

Captain Turner shook Castle's hand. "Please to meet you commander. The admiral has been singing your praises since I met him at the gate."

"Pleasure is mind Captain." Castle answered blushing a little bit.

"Speaking of which admiral, I have one request." Captain Turner stated as he turned to Admiral Patterson. He took a breath. "If you don't mind me asking sir?"

"We are just passengers Captain, this your ship." Admiral Patterson asked with a smile on his face. He motioned for them to walk. "What is your request?"

"One of my deck officers had to take a emergency leave. Death in the family, but I don't have replacement for him." Captain Turner stated as they walked down the deck. He turned and waved to the OOD to dismiss the crew from the quarterdeck. "I was wondering if I could use a either your aide or Commander Castle to stand the 0800-1200, and 2000-0000 watches?"

"Captain we are merely here for the crossing, we don't have time to…" Sorenson started to say but stopped when the admiral put his hand up.

"I cant see a reason why Commander Castle can't help you Captain." Admiral Patterson answered as they stopped by the hatch that would take the party inside the ship. He then turned to Castle. "In fact I think it be a great experience for you Rick, especially with your courses you are taking. Don't you agree?"

Castle hid the smile but nodded his agreement. "Yes admiral, I agree with you."

"Good, and Will we can go over everything after Commander Castle gets off watch." Admiral Patterson told Sorenson after turning around. He saw Sorenson shrink and nod. Then Admiral Patterson turned to the Captain once again. "I have one request then captain? I would like to tour your ship from time to time, to see it and how the crew works. Will give me a sense of the changes in training we recommended."

"Yes admiral of course, you have free range of course, and if you like you can sit on the bridge anytime." Captain Turner answered with a smile on his face.

"Wonderful. Now lets get me settled then." Admiral Patterson answered with a smile on his face and patting the shoulders of the senior officers, and Castle in front of him. "Then Captain, when it's time for lunch, I would like to dine with you so I can also hear it from you about the changes have done, and what we could improve upon."

"It will be my pleasure admiral." Captain Turner remarked as he led the way to the interior of the ship.

Castle watched as Sorenson eyes rolled and sweat started to build. He chuckled to himself. "This is going to be an interesting crossing."

0930

September 17th, 1943

North Atlantic

The green-blue wave crashed over the bow of the cruiser as it rumbled eastward, while keeping its position within the convoy. Up on the bridge, Castle smiled as the he looked through his binoculars as he stood his temporary watch as the OOD for the crossing. The admiral had been right when the experience would be good for him, and it had been. Everything the command courses had thrown at him, especially about standing a watch aboard a bridge was coming back to him and he was enjoying himself. He lowered the binoculars and turned back to the crew, smile on his face. He had missed this while serving in DC. The smell of the salt air, a ship rumbling underneath his feet, waves crashing over the bow. It was going on almost a year for him since his last real ship aboard assignment, the USS Washington, and the naval battle of Guadalcanal. But unlike the Pacific, the real threat here was the U-Boats, and the convoy was on guard for them, even though the threat was diminishing. But still the convoy was at condition 2, which meant at least part of the battle stations had to be man at all times, with equipment nearby. So as Castle consulted the chart, he looked at the diagram of the convoy. A mixture of American and British destroyers were patrolling along the edge of the convoy, while the cruisers and smaller escorts handled interior protection duty. He then looked over the speed and course before looking up. "Let's maintain course and speed for the time being Mr. Johnson."

The other young office on the deck nodded and turned to the helmsman. "Alright Norris. Maintain course 046 and speed of 10 knots."

The young sailor at the helm nodded and repeated the order. For many on shift on the bridge, they had come to respect Castle after being a little apprehensive to start, but they got over it. He often had coffee brought up for the entire watch, and even took over for a few of them when they had to make head calls or take a quick break from their duties. He treated them like the men they were and not just sailors, often asking questions about their lives and such. This respect helped the transition greatly as the journey entered its fourth day. A few minutes later one of the looks stuck his head into bridge. "Sir, there is a message being signaled from the convoy commodore's ship."

Castle nodded his understanding. He grabbed his binoculars and walked to the lookout positon. He found the signal light blinking. "Set Condition 4, full submarine alert. Outer escort reports possible submarine contact. Change course to 094 increase convoy speed to 13 knots…."

Castle looked at the yeoman who had been called by the lookout, and quickly made sure he had translated the message accurately, which he did. Castle took a breath and ducked inside the bridge. "Mr. Johnson sound general quarters. Full Submarine alert."

Mr. Johnson whiten a little bit and nodded. He turned to the bosun standing nearby. "Donaldson you heard the commander. Sound General quarters."

The young bosun nodded and rushed off for the ships intercom system as Castle consulted the chart. "Norris, new convoy course is 094 and speed is 13 knots. That makes our new course and speed, 081 and a speed of 12 knots to maintain position. Come right ten degrees."

"Aye sir. Coming right ten degrees, and increase speed to 12 knots." The helmsman replied turning the helm as another sailor dialed in the speed corrections.

At that moment, the speaker went off with the bosun's whistle and announcement. "General Quarters, general quarters all hands, man your battle stations. Route of general quarters is up the port side, down the starboard side. Reason for General quarters is submarine contact."

Then the general quarters alarm went off, sounding like an electronic bell, which caused the crew of the cruiser to jump and rush to their stations. A sailor handed Castle the helmet and life jacket that he was assigned when he took over the watch. He knew that admiral probably be coming to the bridge with the captain, and then he wondered about Sorenson. He chuckled because he knew Sorenson must be freaking out a bit. He also knew Sorenson wasn't seasick and he had confirmation of it. Accidently one night after coming off his midnight watch, Castle had walked into the quarters he and Sorenson were sharing, when the ship took a bad roll, causing Sorenson's locker to open and the seasickness package to fall out. Castle had been down to pick it up but then realized it was heavier than it was supposed to be. Quietly he went out into the passageway and opened the package. They looked like meds, but when Castle inspected them, it was just blocks of cheese cut to look like the meds. Castle remembered the Admiral asking Will if he had the motion sickness meds, and Sorenson held up the box. Now Castle smirked knowing he had Sorenson. That was two nights ago, but there hadn't been time to confront Sorenson about it. And there wouldn't be time to confront him now especially with the convoy possibly under attack.

Captain Turner and just like Castle predicated Admiral Patterson right behind him came on to the bridge. "What do we have Commander Castle?"

"Convoy commodore flashed a message alert to possible submarine contact. He gave new course and speed." Castle replied as he walked over to the chart and showed the notations made on it to the Captain and the Admiral. "I turned us on to 081 and increased speed to 12 knots to maintain position."

"Very good commander." Captain Turner replied as he looked up and nodded his acceptance to Castle. He patted him on the shoulder before walking past him. "I have the bridge."

"Captain has the bridge." Castle announced, he noticed an extremely panicked Sorenson coming onto the bridge. "Sorenson you should be waiting in the admiral's cabin."

"How can I wait in there while we are under attack?" Sorenson exclaimed with his face ashen.

"Calm down Mr. Sorenson." Captain Turner replied as he didn't take his eyes off the rest of the convoy. "This is standard procedure."

"He's right Will. So go back to my cabin and wait there…." Admiral Patterson added in as he turned around to face Sorenson. He then saw Sorenson's face. "Will you aren't seasick?"

Sorenson shook his head. In his panicked stated he blurted out. "No sir, never was, and never have been. I had my family bribe the medical officer at Annapolis and others to say I was and keep me in the service."

Everyone on the bridge including Castle was shocked. He knew Sorenson would eventually be exposed and he thought he be the one to do it, but it turned out to Sorenson himself. It took all of Castle's discipline not to laugh. Admiral Patterson glowered at Sorenson. "We'll talk about this later Mr. Sorenson, but for now you will wait in my cabin under guard. Captain Turner, can you spare a man to stand guard over my soon to be former aide here?"

"Yes sir." Captain Turner replied just as shocked as everyone else. He looked around the bridge. "Mr. Donaldson, escort and stand guard over Mr. Sorenson until you are relieved."

Mr. Donaldson nodded and walked to Sorenson who was shaking. Castle watched the pair leaving the bridge. He then looked to the admiral who had a furious look on his face. Castle knew it would all come out when the Admiral talked to Sorenson, but for now Castle had to do the duty assigned to him at that current moment, and that was being a member of the bridge crew on the Augusta.

1230

Two hours after the report of the submarine contact, the convoy secured from the anti-submarine alert. The possible submarine contact turned out to be a lone U-Boat that bluntly stumbled upon the convoy and was intercepted before it could radio its and the convoy's position. Two destroyers quickly dispatched the U-Boat and returned to their escort positions. Now since they were secured from General Quarters, Castle walked down to the Admiral's cabin to check in and find out what would become of Sorenson. As he raised his hand to knock he heard the admiral on the other side of the hatch. "YOU ARE THE PROBABLY THE WORST EXCUSE FOR A NAVAL OFFICER I HAVE EVER LAID MY EYES ON LT. COMMANDER SORENSON."

Castle winced at the sound. He took a breath and knocked on the hatch. "ENTER COMMANDER CASTLE."

Castle opened the door and walked into the admiral's cabin. He saw Sorenson at attention and a very irate Admiral Patterson behind his desk. "Checking in sir."

"Stand at ease their Commander." Admiral Patterson told Castle. He took his eyes off Sorenson and turned them to Castle. "I just found out from my soon to be former aide that not only did he and his family bribe several members of United States Navy, but he carried on a affair with a married female officer and made passes at your wife. I also found out that you knew about some of these. Care to explain yourself commander?"

Castle gulped nervously, but quickly recovered and took a breath before nodding. "Yes sir I did."

Admiral Patterson glared at him, but kept his voice normal. "Care to explain to me why you did not come to me with these revelations Commander?"

"Because sir, believe it or not if Sorenson was tried at a court martial, it would have reflected badly on you." Castle answered taking a step forward. He took a breath and thought of his words carefully. "I handled his affair as best as I could, because I didn't want the woman's husband, who I served with on the Washington to find out through grapevine. As far as his passes at Kate, she brushed them off and yes while I wanted to beat him sir within an inch of his life, but Kate was able to talk me down sir."

"Strong willed woman commander." Admiral Patterson answered. He took a breath but didn't look past Castle. "How come you never told me about the bribery?"

"Because it was just a suspicion sir, until Sorenson confirmed it on the bridge a little while ago." Castle responded. He stood straighter now. "I'll accept whatever punishment handed to me Admiral."

"We will consider your punishment later commander." Admiral Patterson answered. He turned back to Sorenson. "As for you…."

"Yes sir?" Sorenson answered shaking now.

"You originally trained as a supply officer as I recalled." Admiral Patterson stated really more towards himself. He then walked around the desk and stood right in front of Sorenson. "Like the Commander said, I don't want a good man and women's name dragged through the mud at court martial, so here is what we are going to do."

Sorenson looked at the admiral who thought for a moment. "You will be accompanied to the wardroom by me or Commander Castle. While in England you will also be accompanied and confined to your berthing until we leave."

Sorenson nodded. "Yes sir."

"Once back in the US, Commander Castle will escort you to a doctor where you will get a new physical, and if Commander Castle suspects you are lying to the doctor, he will report back to me." Admiral Patterson continued as he stared down Sorenson. He took a breath before he went on. "After your physical you will return to supply school for refresher training before being shipped a shipboard assignment. And make no mistake I will be following your progress and informing your new commanders to keep me abreast of your progress. DO YOU UNDERSTAND LT. COMMANDER SORENSON?"

"Aye Aye sir." Sorenson answered. He didn't want to say any more than that.

"Now you will report to your quarters and wait there for a escort to the mess deck." Admiral Patterson said. He walked around his desk and took his position again. "DISMISS."

Sorenson came up to attention, took a step back and turn around and walked out of the admiral's cabin. Admiral Patterson turned to Castle. "Commander, I won't say how disappointed I am in Sorenson, but what disappoints me most is that you didn't come to me with this from the start."

"I understand sir, but I thought about the Lieutenant who served in one of my turrets on the Washington." Castle answered as he looked directly above the admirals ahead at a point on the bulkhead. He took a breath. "I also thought about how it would look for you to sir, but in retrospect I should have come to you sir."

"Yes you should have commander." Admiral Patterson answered back. He took a breath and sat down in his chair. He then motioned for Castle to take a seat. "But I get what you were trying to do Rick, and that what makes you such a terrific officer. You do anything for your subordinates, and superiors. But your responsibility is also to alert me if you suspect any wrong doing on my staff."

Castle nodded and looked at the admiral. "I understand sir and I will accept any punishment you want to give me sir."

Admiral Patterson eyed Castle for a moment before shaking his head. "What you did is extremely minor compared to what Sorenson did. I may punish you later, but for now I can't think of anything."

"I understand sir." Castle replied. He got to his feet and came to attention. "Request permission to be dismissed sir?"

"Granted, and ask the Captain for a officer or a master at arms to escort Mr. Sorenson to the wardroom for chow please." Admiral Patterson replied.

Castle nodded and turned about and left the admiral wondering what the admiral would punish him with. He sighed as he opened the hatch and started down the passageway towards the ladder that lead to bridge. "At worst he can court martial me, but he may just torpedo the rest of my career." He thought to himself.

1430

September 30th, 1943

Alexandria, Virginia

Kate finished packing away the remainder of the groceries from her and baby Rick's trip to use the remainder of their ration book for the rest of the month. She looked at the clock and smiled. "Daddy be home soon bud. Then we'll put you to bed and just have alone time for me and him."

Baby Rick smiled at her as he played on the floor with the toys that he got for his birthday as Kate folded up the bags and stored them in the cupboard. The latest trip had been the longest they had been separated since he took this assignment. Him, the Admiral and Sorenson arrived home on the 27th late in the evening, and Castle had been given until the 29th off, and had to be back today. Despite arriving home almost by midnight, he still woke her with a kiss to which lead to a long love making session that left her exhausted, but satisfied. She chuckled as she looked around. "Alright bud, we'll have chicken tonight, while you have some…."

The sound of the doorbell ringing caused Kate to groan. She picked up baby Rick and shouted. "Just a second."

"Da-Da." Baby Rick said as they walked towards the front door.

"No buddy it ain't daddy." Kate said with a smile on her face. Baby Rick had been making words for a just a little over a month, and they had been excited when he said mama and dada. She kissed his cheek before they reached the front door. "He won't be home for a while."

The doorbell rang again. Kate got a little annoyed this time. "Hold on. Jeez."

Kate got to the front door and opened it. Her mouth dropped. "Hello Dear, Hi Kate."

Alexis and Martha were standing on the other side of the door with cab and the driver unloading luggage. Kate smiled and rushed out to hug them. "Martha, Alexis what are you doing here? Not that I'm glad to see you which I am, but you surprised me."

Alexis laughed as the cabbie came up behind them with the bags in his hands. "That was the plan."

"Come in, come in." Kate answered as she stood off to the side to let them and the cabbie in. She went towards her purse when she saw Martha had already pay the cabbie. "Oh Martha, please…."

"Nonsense dear, I got this. Here you go young man." Martha said to the driver who nodded his thanks for the change and the tip that she gave him. Once the cabbie left, and Kate shut the door that is when Martha and Alexis who looked splendid in her uniform caught a look at Baby Rick. "Oh Kate, look how he has grown. The pictures you sent don't do him justice."

"Gram is right Kate, he has grown like a weed." Alexis said with a large smile coming towards her brother. "Hi baby boy. Do you remember me?"

Kate smiled and passed him over to Alexis. Thankfully he didn't cry. "We been showing pictures of you, and Martha."

"Oh dear, he reminds me so much of Richard at that age." Martha answered with a smiled as she bent down to get at eye level of her grandson. "Hi baby boy. Do you remember me? I am Grams."

For Kate's relief, Baby Rick didn't cry, just looked at both of the ladies for a moment and then to his mommy, who was standing nearby. Thankfully he broke out into a smile, which got Martha and Alexis beaming. Martha stood up beaming. "He does remind me of Richard."

Kate stood there smiling at the scene. "Thank Martha. He just started with ma-ma and da-da, so grams and Alexis are still a bit away."

"I understand perfectly darling, its quite alright." Martha answered with a smile on her face, as she took her grandson from Alexis who gave her a look. "Don't want to get your uniform dirty dear."

Alexis nodded. "I guess you're right Grams."

Kate walked over and gave them quick kisses. "So what brings you by to visit? Like I said before not that I'm glad to see you for which I am glad too see you."

"Well a friend of mine from New York ran a show in San Diego, and somehow got me a priority flight. So I decided what the heck? I got to see Alexis." Martha answered with a smile that was a little too obvivous for Kate. She noticed Kate's look. "Truth be told Katherine, I was lonely in that house. It was just too quiet. So I asked my friend to arrange a flight for me to come to Washington for a little while."

"Uh huh." Kate answered with a smile of her own. She then turned to her stepdaughter. "What about you?"

"I'm actually on leave. I received my orders." Alexis answered with a smile as she took her brother back from Martha. "So Gram's friend arrange for me to come along, and get a priority flight back to San Diego."

Kate's heart started beating quicker. "Where are you going?"

Alexis eyed her warmly and with love. "I want to tell you and dad at the same time."

"Speaking of which Katherine." Martha stated as she looked around the house entry way. "Where is that son of mine?"

"At the office. He'll be home later." Kate answered. Then she mentally slapped herself. They had been standing in the entry this whole time. "Come on give me your coats, and your cover Alexis, and I'll give you the tour, and show you where you be sleeping. I hope Alexis you don't mind either sharing a bed with Martha, otherwise it's a mattress in the baby's room."

"I don't mind as long as Grams doesn't?" Alexis answered framing it in the form of a question as

"I have no problems with it dear." Martha answered handing over her coat. She took a quick look around. "This does appear lovely Katherine."

"It is Martha, I love it." Kate replied. She finished hanging up the coats. She grabbed both bags. "Come on, I'll show you around."

Martha and Alexis smiled as they followed Kate up the stairs.

1745

Castle opened the door to the house. "I'm home."

As he hung up his cover, he noticed two new jackets and a female US Navy cover on the hooks near the door. He looked over as Kate came into the hallway. He looked at her confusingly, to which she chuckled as she came over and gave him a hug "Hi babe. I see you could tell we have some visitors."

"I do. Who is it?" Castle asked as Kate coming over and giving her a quick kiss. He looked up and was in shock who was coming into the hallway. "Mother, Alexis?"

"Hello my dear sweet boy." Martha said coming over and wrapping her son into a hug and giving him a kiss.

"Hi daddy." Alexis said breaking Navy protocol and coming over and hugging her father. She wiped the tears from her eyes then suddenly remembered protocol. She came to ramrod attention. "Good evening commander."

Castle smiled and chuckled at her. He then noticed her rank. "Evening Ensign. Stand at ease. A little young aren't you?"

Alexis laughed as she relaxed. "I was surprised by it too, but apparently some of my advance classes I took in school qualified me for officer's status. Plus I signed up for education courses while in basic."

Castle laughed and came over and kissed the top of his daughters head. He then turned to his mother. "What brings you by? Not that we aren't glad to see you. Which we are obviously."

"It was lonely in Hawaii Richard. I missed my family." Martha said with a sad smile on her face. She came over and put her arm around her son. "So a friend of mine who wanted me to see a show arranged for me to fly to San Diego and see it. I got to see Alexis, who is on leave, and he also arranged a priority for us to come here."

Castle looked at is daughter. "You're on leave? Did you get your assignment?"

Alexis looked nervously at the ground then back up to her father and Kate before nodding. "I did. I am assigned to a hospital ship out of Pearl Harbor. So me and Gram are flying all the way home together. I have to be in Pearl no later than October 10th."

"Oh Alexis." Kate said with sadness in her voice. She looked at her husband who had the same look of concern in his face. They agreed when they were still in Hawaii they would let her find her own way in the Navy, and if was they it was supposed to be, they would let it happen. "Just please be safe."

"I stand by what Kate said pumpkin." Castle also added in. He took his daughter into her arms again. "Just please be safe."

"I will, I promise." Alexis promised. She turned to Grams. "Just like I promised Grams here."

Martha teared up. She then came over and hugged her granddaughter. "And I know you will sweetheart. I know you will."

Kate came over and joined in the hug, but when the sound of a timer going off in the kitchen, she chuckled. "Aint that always the way. Dinner's ready."

"We'll come and help Kate." Alexis answered as the hug broke. She saw the look on her father's face. "Dad?"

"I'll be right there pumpkin." Castle replied. He watched the three most important women in his life head towards the kitchen. He took a breath and looked to the heavens. "God please watch over my little girl as she heads towards the war."

After saying this he joined his family in kitchen for dinner.

1630

December 10th, 1943

Washington, D.C.

Castle signed off on the documents making amendments to the training programs before he would submit it to the admiral for his final approval before they would be sent down to the commands for the New Year. He looked across the way to the Admiral's new aide. A Lieutenant who had returned home from the Pacific after being wounded in one of the actions that had taken place in the Solomon Islands. Castle laughed and shook his head at knowing where Sorenson was now instead of DC; last he heard from the Admiral, Sorenson would complete his refresher course at the end of the next month, and had orders for the light carrier USS Midway which Castle heard was in the Pacific. Castle laughed at the thought of Sorenson in a far flung place in the Pacific. He also laughed when he remembered Kate's reaction to the news. Kate had found it funny also when Castle told her what had happen on the crossing and what would happen to Sorenson. Kate busted out laughing, and so did Martha and Alexis when he told them the story, because Martha remembered Sorenson, while Alexis just found the thing funny at the circumstances.

The smile on Castle's face slowly disappeared when he thought of his mother and daughter. It had been a lovely time with their visit. He had even brought them by the office for a quick visit. Some members of the office were awe struck by his daughter, or the still renowned actress that was his mother. But the admiral had been the one that was the most awe struck out of all of them, mainly due to the presence of Martha. He had them all over for dinner at his and wife's house that very evening that Castle brought them by the office. Even the admiral's wife was awe struck by the presence of Martha. It was a good evening by all that night, and was late by the time the Castle family headed home. But like everything, it all came to a end. It was a sad day when Castle and Kate drove them out to the airfield so they could catch their flight to west coast and then on to Hawaii. After tearful good byes, and wishes for Alexis's safety, the plane had departed, and Castle and Kate returned home. They both admitted it was hard to see their family leave knowing the distance they would be apart.

But again Castle shook his head cleared as he looked at the clock. He grabbed the documents containing the changes as he got up and walked to the admiral's office door. Lightly knocking, he waited for permission before heading in. "Sir here are the approvals for the changes in the training program. Just need your signature."

"Oh thanks Rick." Admiral Patterson answered taking the papers from Castle's hand. He motioned for Castle to take a seat. "Sit down Rick please."

Castle nodded and took a seat as the admiral's aide closed the office door. Admiral Patterson waited until the door was closed. "You are finishing up with your courses soon right?"

Castle nodded. "Yes sir. The last class is next Thursday, with the ceremony scheduled for that Friday."

"Good to hear, and from what I am told you excelled in every one of them, like I knew you would." Admiral Patterson stated as he looked at Castle. He smiled and clasped his hands in front of him. "What do you think of them, the class I mean?"

"They are a good tool sir. Be perfect in the long run down the line or future between shore and ship assignments sir." Castle answered truthfully. He shifted in his seat and settled back down. "If it wasn't for the war, I would expect courses like this to be longer."

Admiral Patterson nodded his agreement. "Probably, but these were trial courses that we are running at different bases across the country. Sometime in the future we would like to consolidate everything in one location for people to take courses like these. But that will have to wait."

"I understand Admiral." Castle answered. In his mind it makes perfect sense. "Courses like these admiral are like the post graduate degrees in universities and colleges."

Admiral Patterson nodded. "Exactly, but right now our focus is on the war. Speaking of which have you given a thought about where you may like to go in the future?"

"Yes sir I have." Castle answered as he looked at the admiral. He remembered the talk he and Kate had after he arrived home from the trip to England. She saw the look in his eyes before he even board the Augusta for the trip over. He had missed the sea, and she knew this. He also knew that him wanting to going back to the sea and war scared her. But they had talked about it and he told her it scared him too. Not facing the enemy, but not being her or losing her altogether. She assured him that would never be the case. She then curled into his arms and he kissed the top of her head staying that way for hours. Castle heard a cough which brought him back to the present. "Sorry sir."

Admiral Patterson chuckled. "Quite alright Rick. So have you thought about where you like to go in the future?"

"I have sir." Castle answered. He took the breath and sat up a little straighter. "I would like to go back to a ship board assignment in the future sir, heck even possibly having my own command one day, but like every navy man, whatever my orders are I go to my next assignment and do the duties to the best of my abilities as possible."

Admiral Patterson smiled and stuck out a hand which Castle took. He shook Castle's hand. "I know you will Rick."

Castle nodded. "Thank you for your confidence Admiral."

"My pleasure." Admiral Patterson replied. He looked at the clock and then the calendar. "I have nothing else for the rest of the staff or my aide. I am going home. Have everyone back here 0830 on Monday."

"Aye, Aye sir." Castle answered coming to his feet and attention before heading out into the office to let everyone know the admiral's orders.

1745

Castle walked into the house to the smell of cinnamon, and nutmeg coming from the kitchen. He looked around the house and saw all the Christmas stuff they had put up. Their landlady Mrs. Donaldson had told them she had kept all the Christmas decorations in the attic still. Her daughter didn't have the room, so she just kept them at the house. So Castle had spent the Saturday after Thanksgiving going through the decorations and having Kate decide what to put use and what not to use. They had gotten the tree early in the week and spent the next evening putting it up and decorating it as Baby Rick watched from a spot of safety near the couch as his parents put up the ornaments. That evening after the baby was put to bed, his parents sat on the couch as they enjoyed some wine, a fire, and the lights of the tree, along with each other. So as Castle hung up his uniform overcoat and cover, he took in the sights. Kate must have found more decorations she wanted to put up. He smiled at the sight of the living room as he moved to the kitchen where he saw Kate pulling a pan of lasagna out of the stove. "Hey dear."

Kate turned around and smiled. "OH hi. How was your day?"

"Not to bad. Mainly paperwork today." Castle answered as he went over to the table and kissed his son hello. He then went to the refrigerator and pulled out a pitcher of tea. He poured himself a glass. "I see you decorated some more."

Kate nodded. "I did. I found some more stuff I like, and put it up."

Castle smiled at her as he took a sip of his tea. "That's good."

Kate finished cutting up the lasagna and looked at him. "Alright spill babe. What's going on?"

"What do you mean?" Castle answered as he drained his tea. He set the glass in the sink looking back at his wife who had her arms cross. "Nothing is going on."

"Funny, because you just drank a glass of brine I was going to use for the roast for the Christmas Party tomorrow." Kate replied back with a smirk on her face.

Castle looked in the sink. Sure enough there was pieces of meat and vegetables in the glass. He opened the refrigerator and looked at the pitcher. "Thought there was a salty taste to the tea."

Kate walked over and took his hands. "Babe what is going on? You can tell me you know."

Castle took a breath. "The admiral asked me today at the office what I wanted to do in the future."

"Of course he did. He wants to see you succeed in your…" Kate started to say, then she saw the calendar on the wall behind him. "Oh."

"Yeah." Castle responded. He took her hand and led her to a seat at the table. "We're coming up on a year, and with the fleet expanding at the rate it is now…."

"You may go back out to sea, and you want to." Kate answered. She saw him nod. She took a breath. "I know you want to go back Rick, and I support you wherever you end up, and you know that. I just want to make it through the holidays without this being on my mind."

Castle nodded his understanding. "I hear you Kate. I promise no more talking about this until we get closer."

Kate smiled at him and gave him a quick kiss on the lips. "Good. Now get the salads out of the fridge, while I heat up the garlic bread. The salads are the ones in the bowls."

Castle smiled at her smirk as he got up. "Smartas…."

She put her fingers to his lips. "Little ears."

They both look at baby Rick who was laughing at them.

0930

December 25th, 1943

Alexandria, Virginia

Surrounded by a mountain of wrapping paper, mainly from the toys that were gifts to baby Rick for Christmas from it seemed everyone they knew. Even Martha and Alexis had managed to get gifts for him. Kate looked around and leaned back into the couch with a little bit of sadness. She was wearing the new necklace that Castle had gotten her. Castle looked at her with concern sporting the new watch she gave him. "You ok Kate?"

"I just miss my family that's all." Kate answered looking around the empty living room. She saw his look. "My dad doesn't do the holidays since mom died, even though he tried for me. Martha and Alexis are in Hawaii. It's not the same."

Castle nodded. He leaned back into the sofa and brought her closer to him. He wrapped his arms around her as she laid her head on his chest. "I understand. I do. I miss them too."

"I know you do babe and I love you for it." Kate replied running her hand up and down his chest. She kissed his jaw before continuing. "I mean I celebrated with friends from school if I couldn't make it home or at my different duty stations, but it wasn't the same. Last two years it just felt like home."

Castle nodded and kissed the top of her head. "I know. I remember my first Christmas I couldn't make it home. It was when I was assigned to my first command. New officer, I pulled the watch. Alexis wasn't even born yet. Then I missed one year when I was in Shanghai. It's tough, but you are right. It felt like home last year, and the year before that."

"That was the first Christmas where it felt like a real holiday again." Kate added in as she snuggled into him tighter. "We were married, and it was the first Christmas as a family. I hope we can get there again someday because I want that again."

"We will Kate. I know we will." Castle answered. He smiled as Kate looked up and smiled at him. He kissed her lightly. "So I have another present for you, but it's for later on tonight."

"Oh really commander, well I just have one more present for you, and its for later on tonight too." Kate answered with a seductive smile of hers that always got him going. "And I think you will like it."

"I hope this dinner doesn't take too long tonight." Castle answered with groan. He felt the small hands of his son climbing up his pants legs. He smiled at his son. "And I hope you go to bed early too son."

"Da-da." Baby Rick answered with a smile on his face that got his parents smiling at him.

0930

February 1st, 1944

Washington, D.C.

Castle set the paperwork down on the admiral's aide desk who was busy dealing with the latest travel plans for the admiral after which Castle turned and walked back to his desk with a sigh. It had been a busy month since the end of the holiday season, not just in the office, but in their lives. For Kate and Castle, they had found out their land lady, Mrs. Donaldson had passed away a couple days after New Years. Her daughter shortly after the funeral that her and her family could not keep up with the house, and would put it on the market at the end of February, giving Castle and Kate time to make other arrangements which was difficult enough since there was still a housing shortage in the area. So they had that worry, and on top of that, Castle had been busy with the office the past month handling the duties of executive officer and it was also time for evaluations for some of the enlisted members of the staff, along with fitness and performance reviews of some of the officers since some of the promotion boards were coming for those that were eligible. On top of all that, Castle had to make two quick trips with the Admiral to Norfolk, and Philadelphia to check on construction and talk with the yard managers and commanders about the latest changes in technology and training. So there had not been much time to really look for a new place to live, and now they were under a time crunch.

So when Petty Officer Johnson, who replaced Tyler who left for a ship assignment midway through January, picked up the phone no one paid it any mind. He replied as expected, but turned to Castle. "Commander Castle, the admiral would like to see you."

Castle nodded and stood up. "Thanks Petty Officer Johnson."

The petty officer nodded his response as Castle walked to the door and entered. Admiral Patterson looked up. "Rick, do you remember what we talked about in December?"

"Yes sir I do." Castle replied as he came to a stop in front of the admiral's desk. He studied the admiral for a moment. Then it came to him. "Sir?"

"Pack your bags. You're heading back to the war." Admiral Patterson answered getting up to his feet, and walking around his desk with a folder in his hand. "You're getting your own command. I believe you know her."

Castle took the folder from the Admiral's hand and opened it. Despite his trying to remain discipline, his face went to shock. "The Tennessee?"

Admiral Patterson nodded. "Her Captain is pinning a star, while her executive officer is pinning on his stripes and getting a new cruiser coming out of the yards. You have been selected early for Captain, date of promotion pending."

"Captain?" Castle answered with surprise in his voice. He looked down at the orders again before looking back up at the admiral. "Sir?"

"I didn't do anything Commander. Your record, fitness reports, and performance reviews speak for themselves." Admiral Patterson replied with a smile on his face. He patted Castle on the shoulder. He pointed to the chair in front of the desk. "Take a seat. Now since you don't have to be to Pearl till Mid-March we have some time."

Castle nodded his understanding. "Like selecting my replacement, bringing him up to speed, getting cleared medical, and having everything for my family back to Pearl."

Admiral Patterson chuckled as he sat down and picked a stack of folders. "Exactly right Commander. Here are some candidates to replace you. Go through and give me your opinion. I would like to have them in place soon so we can begin change over, and you can have some leave. You have acquired enough."

"Yes sir." Castle answered taking the folders and handing the one the admiral handed him containing his orders. He looked at the stack and realized he might want to get started on it today. "Would you like to see the officers before you make your decision Admiral?"

Admiral Patterson nodded. "Yes I would. I would like to schedule the change of command by February 25th. You have several awards coming to you, especially one from Admiral Lee for your actions from November 14th-15th, 1942"

"Sir?" Castle asked. He remembered the date. He chuckled. "Got to love Navy bureaucracy sir."

Admiral Patterson chuckled as well. "Definitely. It got hung up in a pile somewhere, but you deserve it according from what I read. Anyway, get started on those, and get back to me as soon as possible."

"Aye sir." Castle replied. He got to his feet, then suddenly remembered the one person that meant the most in the world needed to know what was going on. "Sir do you mind if I take a longer…."

"Granted Commander." Admiral Patterson answered with a smile on his face again. "She needs to know. Take a long lunch."

"Thank you Admiral." Castle said. He came to attention before leaving the office. He looked to Petty Officer Johnson. "Petty Officer Johnson. Call Commander O'Donnell and let him know I am taking a longer lunch, and he may have to take the 1500 meeting."

"Aye sir." Petty Officer Johnson replied. He smiled at the thought of where the Commander was going for lunch. He had met Kate a few times and can see why the commander was so smitten.

Castle nodded his thanks as he set the folders down on his desk, and opened the first one. He had a lot to do and not a lot of time to do it.

1145

Alexandria, Virginia

Castle walked into the house and hung up his cover on the hooks. "Kate?"

Kate came out of the living room, surprised that Castle was home. "Babe you're home early. Everything ok?"

Castle nodded as he came over and gave her a quick kiss and hug. "Everything is fine, but I got something to tell you."

"That's great." Kate responded as she took his hand and led him to the living room. Baby Rick was playing on the floor. "I got something to tell you too."

"Ok. Why don't you go first, and then I'll go." Castle said to her as they sat down on the couch. He looked at her. "Or maybe I should go first, and then…."

Kate gave him one of her looks. "Babe. Just tell me."

"Ok." Castle answered. He took a breath and looked into her eyes. "I got my new assignment. I got my own ship. The Tennessee."

"The battleship?" Kate asked getting a nod from Castle. SHe shifted in her seat for a moment but a smile grew on her face. "That's great babe. I didn't know she was back in service already."

"She is, and has taken part in few actions since coming back already." Castle answered. He kissed her lightly. "The best part is, we get to go back to Pearl."

"We get to go back to Pearl? Babe that is wonderful." Kate answered as she threw her arms around him and kissed him quickly because of baby. She then looked around the house. Her face soften. "I hate to leave this place though. It became home."

Castle nodded. "I know it did Kate. I hate to leave it too."

"And you know I am happy for you, but I am also scared to Rick." Kate said leaning into him. She wrapped her arms around him again. "It's the war, and we hear the reports all the time. I am just so scared the next time you go out, I won't get you back."

"Oh Kate." Castle responded as he kissed the top of her head. He hugged her tighter. "Do you remember what I said before I left for the Washington?"

He felt her nodded on his chest. "I will do my damnest to come back to you all, and I mean it. I will do it again this time."

"I know you will babe." Kate answered with a sound of sadness in her voice. She looked up at him. "I just don't want to lose you."

"You wont Kate, because no matter where I will be, I'll always be with you." Castle told her. He kissed her lightly. She smiled at the words and clung to him tighter. "Are you going to be ok with this?"

Kate nodded. "Yes I will be because I know your mother will be happy, and so will Alexis whenever we see her. Question is how are we going to do this?"

Castle looked around. "Since we have to be out by the end of the month it will work perfect. I think we start packing up stuff and shipping it to Pearl as we get it done."

Kate looked around living room and smiled. "Sounds like a plan. And maybe we should let your mother know in advance too, so she can prep. The more we can get sent now the less we have to worry about. The only downside is that baby Rick won't have his own room anymore."

"Yeah that is the downside, but it will be ok." Castle answered as Kate released him. He stood up. He took her hands. "And with these orders I will be busy with the changeover, so that is also a negative."

"We'll deal with it babe, like we always have." Kate said standing up. She wrapped her arms around his neck. "Together. Always."

"Always." Castle said. He leaned down and kissed her for a moment. He then broke the kiss remembering Kate had wanted to tell him something. "Oh what did you want to tell me?"

Kate looked at him with that smile that always made his heart go a million miles a hour. "I'm pregnant."

Castle looked at her for a moment in shock before a smile broke out on his face. "You are?"

Kate nodded. "I confirmed it yesterday with the doctor. You're going to be a dad again."

Castle smiled, laughed, kissed her, and picked her and spun her around. "Another baby. Oh Kate I am so happy."

"I see that, and I am happy too." Kate answered. She kissed him lightly. She took his hands and began to lead him out of the living room towards the kitchen. "Come on. I'll make you lunch while we continue to discuss the plans."

Castle nodded as he followed. . "But there is one thing we have to do above all else?"

Kate looked at him for a moment and then realized what he was talking about. Her face sank a bit. "Oh. We have to tell my dad. I wonder what he will think."

Castle nodded as they arrived at the kitchen. "I think he will accept the news pretty well. He could always visit us."

Kate nodded as her face brighten up a bit. He was always the optimist and looked at the bright side of things. That was one of the great things she loved about him. "Yeah he could. Alright we'll tell him this weekend."

Castle nodded. "Good. Now let's eat."

Kate chuckled as she opened the refrigerator as Castle reached for the bread so they could have lunch together before he had to be back at his office to start the process of him getting ready to transfer back to the war.

Additional Note: So Castle is on his way back to war via Pearl Harbor, but he's getting one Arizona's sister ship instead of the newer battleships. What will happen? Stay tune. Upcoming, Castle and Kate leave Washington, and head home. Castle meets his new command and puts it through the paces as Kate settles back into the Pearl Harbor house, and Castle leaves a heavily pregnant Kate for the Marianas.