Chapter Six:
They sat relaxing at a small corner table in the tiny bar listening to a wonderfully talented acoustic guitarist whom Kate had never heard of perform his music. She was enjoying herself immensely. What an evening!
After the initial awkwardness at her apartment, they had both relaxed. Castle had taken her to an out-of-way authentic Chinese restaurant where the food had been just short of incredible. It didn't surprise her when she learned that six months ago Rick had been involved in helping the young, immigrant owners get the place off the ground.
And now they sat quietly embracing each other in a tiny bar in the Village, his arm wrapped comfortably around her waist, listening to hauntingly beautiful music and sipping glasses of wine. How did Castle know she loved this kind of stuff? There was a break between songs and she turned to question him.
Before she could say anything, he leaned in, their faces almost touching. "I knew you played the guitar and I made some calls. Jake is just breaking onto the New York scene and I thought you might enjoy some of his music to round out our night." He smiled and let his hand lightly brush against her cheek.
"He's incredible! This entire evening has been…" she paused, struggling for the right word, finally settling simply for, "…nice. It's been really nice, Rick."
Castle stared longingly at her, drinking in every ounce of her beauty. Was he really sitting with his arm around Kate Beckett? Did she just call him Rick? "Just don't mess this up," he reminded himself.
Kate actually made the first move. As the music started back up, she reached and touched Rick's chin, steering his face closer to hers. Ever so slowly, she brought her lips to his, beginning a sweet, tender kiss that lasted for well over a minute. As heated as their first kiss had been in the alley, this one was soft and gentle, yet intensely personal.
They finally broke apart and smiled contently at each other. "I'd say that was pretty nice, as well, Detective," Castle said softly.
"Yea, but I think I need to gather more evidence," came Kate's coy reply. As she leaned in for another kiss she felt in complete control, having set strict boundaries that Castle was still hesitant to test. And she was enjoying the power immensely.
For the next half-hour they cuddled, making out like two teenagers in the back seat of a car. Castle finally relaxed and began taking the lead; nibbling her ears, nuzzling her neck and kissing her adorable nose, yet always cognizant of where his hands were roaming. They were both content to be at this simple level of intimacy. No need to rush anything, their body language relayed to the other.
Kate finally came up for some much needed air. She decided it was the perfect time to push his buttons, as payback for all of his earlier teasing. "Castle, before I can decide on a second date, I'm afraid I have a very important request about tonight." She sounded serious.
Castle silently panicked, instinctively loosening his hold on the sensuous curves of her body. Had he done something wrong? "Sure, anything at all." His voice cracked nervously.
She stared intently at him, her green eyes blazing, but said nothing.
He felt his throat tightening. "Kate please, just tell me what you want." He was begging, terrified that he had unknowingly broken a rule.
Kate Beckett sensed his uneasiness and knew she had Rick Castle right where she wanted him. Leaning provocatively against him, she smiled devilishly and whispered into his ear, "Extra innings."