Chapter 4: Serena's Reckoning
After I told them what had happened, Kate's eyes flashed. I knew what that meant.
"This creep has gone too far! Ryan, Esposito, stakeout around my house tonight. Don't start!" She added, seeing the mischievous glint in their eyes.
"Um, Kate? Can I talk to you for five minutes?" I asked. She nodded and we went into an empty office room. She shut the door and blinds before she sat down next to me.
"I know this is a lot to process, Serena, but I'm looking out for you." Kate noticed my expression.
"What's gonna happen now?"
"Your apartment is a crime scene, and until we figure this guy out, I'm not allowed to touch anything. My only wish is to ensure your safety. After all, you're a sister to me!" She smiled at me and I returned her smile.
"That goes both ways." I stand up, hearing a commotion outside. Kate opened the door and we both looked out. Javier had Kevin in a headlock and Richard was holding onto Javier's legs. They froze as they met our bewildered expressions.
"Do I want to know?" I asked. They quickly broke apart, muttering to each other and fixing themselves up.
"Castle, go home." Kate said, defiantly.
"You really don't like me, do you?" He frowned at her.
"What gave me away?"
"Kate…" I said, putting my hand on her arm. She looked at me.
"Don't be so mean to Richard." I gave her a look. She widened her eyes and I nodded.
"Fine, but only because you said so." She looked at Richard again, our silent conversation ended.
"I don't like you, Castle, but Serena does, so would you please go home?" Kate seemed to be fighting the urge to throw him out.
"After I say good night to Serena. Alone." He added, pointedly. Kevin and Javier cleared their throats, muttering something about starting the stakeout. Kate narrowed her eyes.
"Make it quick. I'll be back in one minute, starting now." She walked out.
"Serena, I know we've just met, but is there a chance I could see you again?" Richard asked.
"I'd like that, but – " I was interrupted by the arrival of Kate.
"Time's up, Castle! C'mon, Serena."
"All right!" I quickly kissed Richard, which surprised both of us.
"See you around," I left with Kate. She didn't say much to me, other than: "How've you been?"
To which I replied: "Pretty well, and you?"
"Same here." She bit her lip. Deafening silence filled the car.
"Well, here we are!" She said a few minutes later. She pulled into the driveway and we got out. I was honestly relieved to go inside.
"Seems like it's been a lifetime since we've had a sleepover, Serena." Kate and I smiled at the memories.
"It has been, at least for me. Sorry." I added, seeing the look on her face.
"I'm the one who should be apologizing. After all, I failed you."
"What makes you say that?" I said, sitting on the grey couch.
"When you called me, I'd just been introduced to Castle. He didn't make the best first impression for me; you know how I am. I still hate to admit that I sat at my desk and just listened to you. Even when you begged me to help you, I didn't do anything." Kate's voice trailed away, and I realized that she was crying. I hugged her.
"I don't blame you at all, Kate. You didn't know what was happening, and even if you had left, you wouldn't have made it in time. I know I wouldn't have, even if I were speeding. He was freaky fast. Besides, I'm glad I got a second chance at life. It makes room for more memories. Like those that I have of your place, the very ones I'd kept hidden for so many years." I suddenly realized that I was crying as well. I gasped as I thought of something.
"What if that creep wasn't really after me?" I wondered.
"What do you mean?" She asked, sniffling.
"Well, every time that I'd say something to him, he'd give me a threat to deal with. I got scared each time and then I was scared enough to call you. I was on the phone with you when he killed me. What if it's you that he's after?"
"You mean he knew that you would come back to life?"
"It's conceivable. Besides, I only reported the story and you were the cop who arrested his brother." I covered my mouth.
"I'm so sorry, Kate, I wasn't trying to accuse you."
"I know. This is my problem. I created this monster, and I won't rest until he's locked up. I promise!"
"It's not all your fault. I helped to expose you to this maniac. Whether you like it or not, I'm in." I stood up, fixing her with a determined look. She smiled, the worry on her face disappearing.
"Welcome back, Serena." She said.