92 Days

by Castlefan6

Authors Note: This is Totally AU; Beckett has left the hospital after her shooting, This describes the activity of each, during those 92 days without contact, both in the hospital and out. It blends some Canon dialog, courtesy of Dust Jackets Dot Com, then goes quickly and completely AU. What were each up to during this time, Taking Literary License to fill in the blanks.

I don't own Castle; I use the characters for amusement purposes only, except the ones I create.

Also, we take liberties with the timeline from Canon and use events to make this a more believable fiction, thanks.

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Chapter 27

Presbyterian Hospital

New York

ICU VIP Section

Sunday, 1:31 AM

Rick was in ICU, and by pulling some strings, Gina had convinced the Department Head to allow visitors to be with Rick around the clock. She told them that he suffered from PTSD, and only she or Kate Beckett knew the triggers to get him out of an episode. She only had to remind them once of the potential loss of financial support, not including the bad press, and litigation should he damage himself if he were left alone.

Of course, it was a bluff, well it was an exaggeration, not a lie. Rick had been diagnosed with mild PTSD, and Gina was the one who knew the triggers, and how to get him out of his panic attack. It was an odd site to many, Kate Beckett on one side of his bed, Gina Castle Cowell on the other, each holding his hand, both had dozed off, and were awakened at the same time with the moaning and slight movement of his legs.

It was apparent that he was trying to wake up, and both ladies were afraid he would try to pull his breathing tube out, Gina hit the nurse call button just as Kate went to reach for it. Kate wasn't patient, and when no one had arrived in a few seconds., Kate stuck her head out the door, and yelled, "NURSE, Mr. Castle is waking up trying to remove his tubes you better get in here."

Suddenly there were nurses and doctors making a beeline to his room, finally, Dr. Kovacs's chief resident arrived and took charge, "OK, Charge nurse, and you, he pointed to another nurse on the opposite side, you stay, everyone else out, now"

"I'm sorry Detective and Mrs. Castle, this isn't going to be pretty so please step out of the room as well, we'll bring you back as soon as possible, Dr. Patton said.

Kate and Gina stepped out into the hallway, and the nurse said they should get a coffee, it would take a few minutes before they could see Mr. Castle again, so they walked down to the main nursing station and both poured a strong cup of coffee.

"What do you think is going on Kate, I mean, we should have been allowed to stay," Gina said

"Well, I think they're getting the breathing tube out of Rick, he'll have to be awake, and it's not pretty, hell I almost got sick and I was the patient when they took mine out. It's such a relief though, to breathe on your own, but he's going to be in a great deal of pain. You know him better than I do, but he can't be a hero, that actually slows healing" Kate said, looking at the floor,

"I'm sorry Kate, this has to bring horrible memories back to you, I didn't think," Gina said softly

"Hey it's OK, it's actually a good thing, that's one step closer to him getting discharged and back on his way to recovery," Kate said, never letting Gina know just how traumatic the entire process for her had been.

They finished their coffee in silence and then a doctor came to tell them they could return to the room, but now only 10 minutes each hour for the next two days. The first thing Kate noticed when she walked back into the room, was that they had removed the breathing tube, a bandage covered the small trach area where apparently life-flight had to incubate him directly.

He was asleep and there was now a small machine lying next to his hand, (a PCA pump), allowing him to administer the pain medication when he thought he needed it. It was designed to only allow so much in each allotted time period, no matter how many times you pressed it. Gina noticed the extra bag hanging from the IV Pole and questioned the doctor.

"Dr. Patton, what are those two bags hanging, and what's this?" she pointed to the machine lying on his bed next to his hand.

"Well, now that he's awake Mrs. Castle, (Gina didn't bother to correct him but allowed him to continue) he will feel the pain much more, we've added some pain killers to his IV drip and the PCA pump, or the machine next to him will allow him to press it for medication for pain, IF, he hasn't exceeded the prescribed dosage already. Many patients press the button and even though they don't receive medication, calm themselves which of course reduces pain.

"Mr. Castle will be waking up completely in about a half-hour and may notice several sensations, most common will be a sense of being very groggy. Some patients don't tolerate anesthesia well and can feel nauseated, we've added Zofran to the IV drip, which should alleviate nausea. If he still complains of feeling sick to his stomach, ring the nurse and they have a patch to place behind his ear that will take it away, it's quick-acting, just please neither of you two touch it.

"Mr. Castle is going to want water, please refrain from giving him large amounts, let the ice chips melt between his lips, and soothe his throat. The breathing tube is a Bitch to tolerate, and his voice will probably be scratchy, that's normal, let it heal, it will get better, I promise you. You may also notice immediately that he demonstrates problems swallowing, again it's because of the tube placed in his throat to help him breathe. "

For the first time, he looked up and realized that Kate Beckett was still standing holding Castle's hand and finally he recognized her.

"Oh, I'm sorry Detective Beckett, I just realized I worked with Doctor Kovacs on your case, this year, so this must bring back horrible memories for you. I'm so very sorry" He said as his face flushed,

"Oh, no problem I recognized your face but I never caught your name Dr. Patton, so I'm glad you took the time to explain this to us both. Gina and I will be here quite a bit, so it's good to know what's going on. It's true I was a patient but I don't remember 90 % of what happened. By the way, don't think about trying to enforce that 10 minute per hour visitation limit, just see the Administrator, and let us know if you need anything clarified. Gina and I will be in and out, as we feel it's needed, to help Rick's outlying condition.

"Sure Detective, it's standard procedure is all, I wasn't aware that special arrangements had been made." Dr. Patton said shyly, Gina just looking on,

"So, Doctor Patton what's the next step, I mean how long will Rick be in ICU, and then what do we expect. We have a private nurse arranged to be here as soon as he leaves ICU. Don't worry, it's all been cleared through the proper channels," Gina said,

"Well, Mrs. Castle,"

"I'm no longer Mrs. Castle, Dr. Patton, but I still use the name as my middle name, I'm Gina Castle Cowell. I'm his former wife, and well, it's a long story so we'll just leave it at that" she smiled,

"OK, Ms. Cowell, to answer your question Mr. Castle will probably spend three days, including today in ICU, then be moved to the step-down unit, that's when you can arrange the private nurse to sit with him, but not do anything that our normal nursing staff will be doing. She can observe, and get a feel for his tolerance, and assist in his walking, after the tubes, and catheters are removed, here in the ICU.

"I hope that answered your question completely, Ms. Cowell, but here's my card, should you have any questions, of course, Dr. Kovacs, is always available should you prefer to speak to him," he said as he handed cards to Kate and Gina.

"Thanks, Dr. Patton, we appreciate everything you and the staff of Doctor Kovacs have done. I don't want to sound ungrateful; we really do appreciate everything. The private nurse is more to provide us with information and prepare her to help me as he begins his rehab. I know my former husband and he can be a handful so we need to know what he can and can't do or he'll push the limits." She smiled and saw the look of relief come over the young doctor's face.

"It's our pleasure, it's always good to be speaking to a family with positive results, so thank you. Call me day or night if you need anything" as he walked briskly away looking at his pager, then they heard his name over the speakers, "Dr. Patton, paging Dr. Rob Patton." He waved from the elevator bay and was gone.

XxX

5 Days Later

Step Down Unit

Presbyterian Hospital

Rick had suffered a slight setback, he had taken a fever and was monitored for 48 hours with stronger antibiotics until the fever broke and Dr. Patton and Kovacs were both satisfied, he was ready for the step-down unit.

Renee had been in the city, waiting to take over as the private nurse, she even maintained her permissions at Presbyterian Hospital but allowed the process to flow in a normal manner. Kate couldn't describe how thrilled she was to hear from her, then how she cried when she learned of Rick.

FLASHBACK CALL TO RENEE

Kate didn't have to look for her card, hell she had her on speed dial just in case something happened at the cabin. Renee had become more than just her nurse, but also a friend, one she needed badly. It was true she had imposed the isolation upon herself, but she was drowning without friends to keep her straight, a trait Renee had no problem in doing. She would let her have it when she stepped over a line or started to feel sorry for herself.

She pressed the speed dial number, and heard on the third ring, "Kate, is everything OK, do you need me, where are you?" She rushed out,

"Slow down Renee, and well, sit down, I'm at Presbyterian hospital, but it's not for me. Rick had open-heart surgery, three days ago, and is in intensive care. Gina and I talked and we thought you would be the perfect nurse to keep him in line, both in the step-down unit and at home or where he chooses to rehabilitate."

"WHAT? Rick had open-heart surgery, oh my God! How is he Kate, please no lies," Renee sounded the most panicked she had ever heard,

"He's doing OK, if things go well, he'll be moved to step down in three days, he had a fever so they kept him in ICU for an additional two days. He's in a lot of pain, as you can imagine, and well Gina and I won't leave him alone, eh, I,"

"Kate, I know of his slight PTSD, so you don't have to pretend, he told me about it, so how can I help? Did you say you and Gina want me to be his nurse when he gets moved to the Step-Down unit?" She asked,

"Of course, I'll be there this afternoon, I'll stay at the Four Seasons,"

"About that, no you won't Gina invited you to stay at the Loft, she wants you close to the hospital, well, if you'll accept. She said she never hated you, I guess you called late one night after they were just married and got a double-barrel full of Gina on the warpath.

"She was insecure, and you were beautiful, so I think there was some jealousy there, but she's OK now. She knows you still love him, she can deal with that, as long as he gets better for us all. There will be plenty of time to mark our territories after he's up and well." She said, quietly,

"Kate, how do you feel about me being that close to Rick, especially after our talks, I mean I can have my best nurse assigne"

"NO, Gina and I both thought and we want you to be here. You know him, his tricks, and the subtle signs of his pain, so Renee what do you say?"

"OK, one condition Kate, you stay at the loft as well, I mean it's asking a lot, but"

"Renee, I'm already staying there, well the time we're not here at the hospital. I had clothes taken over there and Gina, has been terrific during this entire mess, so I'll be there. I know how you feel,

"Thanks, Kate, I'll be there around 4:00 PM if you could meet me, I'll see you then," She said then hung up,

CURRENT TIME

Kate was surprised at how cordial Alexis had been, and Martha was thrilled to see her old friend's daughter, she had always called her Auntie, so it was like one of her own coming home. Renee was geared and ready to observe in ICU-Step-Down, but as he got closer to coming home, she was there to protect him, and ensure his therapy and care were up to standard. She knew most of the supervisors on the floor, which made it easier for her to assume her role.

She was already in his room when they rolled the bed from ICU to the step-down unit, once again a VIP, private room. She stood at the head of the bed, Rick was awake, but in pain. She didn't say a word, looked at his chart, then hit the pump to deliver the medication to him. He looked once, twice, then, said in a raspy voice, "Rae, is that you?"

"In the flesh Rick, I'm here, and I'm your pain in the ass until you're on your feet, or Gina fires me" she laughed as she walked over, gently moved the hair from his face, and kissed his forehead.

"You know Rick, I can only observe and help when you're in distress until we get you discharged, so that's our goal, to get out of here. That doesn't mean you are going to cram three days of treatments into one, not on your life, buster. AND forget about bribing anyone to bring you anything not on your menu, you know I'll catch it, and bust their heads." She said, she smiled, but Kate knew she was serious,

Gina shot Kate a look as if to say, "yep, he's not getting away with anything, no matter how much charm he turns on,"

XxX

Three Weeks Later

Castle's Beach House,

Hamptons.

Rick was coming home today, well to the Hampton's house, to finish his recuperation, and Renee was coming with him, much to Kate's apprehension. In the hospital, she knew that too many people had access to his room, but now, at the Hamptons, in his bedroom, who was to know what if anything would happen.

Gina, Alexis, Martha, and Eva who had flown in from the west coast to be on hand were waiting to greet him, as his limo pulled up to the front door. Two of his bodyguards, AKA drivers, were out of the car first, then Renee, and then Rick. She walked up the walk with him slowly, her arm wrapped around his waist, and well, his arm was around hers as well. He looked pale, and you could see the pain on his face, Kate recalled that all too vividly.

As soon as he got near the door, his showtime face came on, as he greeted and thanked each person for being there. As soon as it was socially acceptable, Renee put a halt to the celebrations,

"Hey, Rick is past due for his medication and we need to get set up in his room so please excuse us, I hope he will take a short nap while I set things up," she said, as he looked like a wounded child who had just had his favorite toy taken away from him.

"Thanks again guys, I think Renee is right, and, well, I don't have the strength to argue with her and Gina both, not yet, so I'll see you in a little while." He said as once again, Renee's arm wrapped around him, his around her and they went into his bedroom suite and closed the door.

"Relax Kate, I had a bed brought in for Renee and placed in the office, it will give her enough privacy but also let her be close to him if he needs her. You didn't think I was setting them up to sleep together, even if it was just sleep, did you?" Gina asked, smiling but not selling that it was completely genuine.

XxX

"Rick, do you know how much five pounds is? Do You?" Renee was yelling at her patient, that's the limit on what you can pick up, as of now. Remember I read your charts so don't try any of your normal bullshit with me buster," she chastised as she took a suitcase out of his hands. "You need something, that's what I'm here for, your therapists will let me know when they talk to the doctors and raise your limits.

"As of now, it's no stress exercises, and walks, which you and I will be taking as soon as you wake from your nap. Here are your pain pills, and the vitamins the doctor thought would speed healing, so take them, shush, and lie down.

"IF you raise a stink, I'll dress you in your PJ's and you'll do your walks with me inside, so behave. I love you, you know that BUT don't push me, Rick, I will make you sorry. All you have to do is what you're told, and let me, Gina, and the others take care of things, do you got that?" Renee wasn't having any of his moon eyes or lost little boy looks, she had laid the law down.

Gina heard the conversation from outside the door, when Rick responded, "Renee, come on, I've been cooped up in that hospital for God knows how long, you have to cut me some slack" Rick whined,

"I am Rick, I am, I know you're bored out of your mind. You're not supposed to walk on the beach until next week, but if you promise to lean on me, when we go up and down the stairs, then we'll try the beach. Rick, fair warning love, it's gonna hurt like a bastard the first time, so if you get too tired or it hurts too much, you tell me, that a deal?" she asked,

There was a moment of silence, then Gina heard, "Rick, don't even try that, you know I have a job to do, plus you have Kate, Gina, and for all I know Eva out there waiting to take care of that, right now, I'm your nurse who loves you. If you use that for a book title you owe me royalties", she laughed,

Rick laid down and was out within three minutes of his head hitting his own pillow, Gina came in to check on him, brushed his hair off his face, and kissed him gently.

"I'm sorry Renee, I overheard the last part of your conversation with Rick, was he trying to get fresh with you?" Gina asked,

Renee laughed, "I wish, if he had, I would have locked the doors and performed other types of therapy on him."

Gina blushed, then Renee continued, "No Gina, no matter how much I try to convince him otherwise, I'll always be the little girl he helped in school, so yes I love him, but now he's my job, not my lover. I'll do any and everything to get him back to his normal self as soon as possible, but it's going to be tough.

"Somedays he will be depressed and crabby, we have to allow that, other days when things are going good, you'd never know he came so close to dying." She dabbed her eye and slipped out of his room, with Gina.

She saw Kate and Eva on the veranda and joined them for her first official update, she explained the plan and advised the ladies to be patient with him. The Hamptons had always been his escape place, she didn't want him to consider it his chamber of horrors, so she was forcing him to follow the doctor's orders to the letter.

"Renee, you know me, Rick can't be half as bad a patient as I was, so when do you expect him to be able to have conversations about, well other things than his health? Are we talking weeks, days, or even months?" Kate asked, knowing Renee knew exactly what she meant.

"Kate, his broken heart has just been patched physically, it'll be at least two months before he's up to even thinking about talking about patching it emotionally. The best you can do, well, in my opinion, is give him the space he gave you. You know he won't show he's hurting around you or Alexis, we can't have that. You came, he knows you're here, but he's not ready yet, I think you can relate."

"Of course, Renee, of course. Do you think I should just come out on the weekends, and let him concentrate on doing nothing but healing?" Kate asked as Gina stood in the door,

"Kate, I'm glad you brought that up, we're only going to be in the Hamptons for this week, and part of next. As soon as Rick's ready to travel by car we're headed to our cabin to give him some peace and solitude. When I say we, I mean Rick, Renee, and me, Eva is flying back to LA the day after tomorrow, and I'm sure you're over your head with work, just coming back and heading a new department and all." She said kindly,

"Cabin? I never knew Rick had a cabin, how far and could I visit it if I get a long weekend off? Kate asked, hoping the desperation to be near Rick in any way wasn't coming through in her voice.

"Well, it's a personal thing Kate, so forgive me, but we aren't doing any entertaining other than by zoom calls until Rick wants and feels up to it. I'm sure you understand, you went to your dad's place to finish recovering, didn't you?" Gina asked,

Kate's face turned red, thinking about how she snuck off in the middle of the night, she wanted privacy so yes she understood. She was trying not to think about Renee getting into the shower with Rick, as she had with her, but she had to push those thoughts out of her mind,

"Of course, we all know he'll try to entertain as long as someone is here or excuse me with you, so yes, I understand. I guess I'll plan on heading back to New York when Eva leaves for the flight back to Los Angeles. I can't thank you enough for including me, it really helped, so thank you." She said as she searched the room for any excuse to go to her room.

"Well, I have some calls to return," so if you'll excuse me, I'll be down shortly," Kate said taking one last look at Rick's bedroom.

"Kate, follow me, but don't make a sound," Renee said as she led her to see Rick sleeping peacefully and Renee's fold-up bed in the far side of his office, a good distance away, well for now.

TBC