Castle sat alone in his loft waiting for Kate. He started pacing, racking his brains thinking of where Kate could be. When the pacing became too much he sat down on his couch and placed his head in his hands.
Moments later he heard the door and was up in a flash. "Kate, where have you been? I've been worried sick. Ryan and Espo said they sent you home at two! Thanks for calling, letting me know where you were!" Castle raised his voice. Kate barely acknowledged him, muttered "sorry" and walked to the study.
Castle had given up half the room for Kate to set up her own small office months ago. He loved working side by side with her. Kate finishing up paperwork and Castle writing chapters for his latest novel.
Castle followed as Kate rather unsteadily sat herself down at her desk. He knew she was putting up a front. He could see the strain in her features, the ache in her muscles but most of all he noticed her eyes. Her beautiful bright eyes that he knew so well, were dull so very dull.
He was so mad at her after this afternoon, but his concern for her health was overwhelming. They would fight this out later. He'd make sure of it, but looking at Kate in her current state he knew it wouldn't be fair. He decided to take a softer approach.
"Kate what are you doing? You're exhausted. There are some leftovers in the fridge, want me to heat a little up for you?" Castle asked quietly as he made his way behind Kate's chair. He reached out and swept her hair out of the way. He began to massage her shoulders softly. He heard her sigh giving in to his touch and he felt her relax just a little. He couldn't help but notice her clammy skin.
"No thanks, I grabbed a quick bite on my way back here" Kate said not turning around. "Look Kate, how about you put all that away and we get an early night, you need it" Castle said. Oh no she's giving him the look.
"I need it? No Castle I don't need it, I'm fine. I'm going to get this paperwork finished, seeing as I had to leave early after someone created such a fuss that I had half the precinct watching my every move and trying to shove food down my throat. If you want an early night then by all means you head off now. I'll be another few hours. At least!" Kate fumed.
Kate immediately regretted her little outburst. But Castle simply turned her around in her chair, gripped her shoulders and gave her a soft kiss to the forehead. "Okay Kate, when you're ready to talk you know where to find me. I'm worried sick. I'm angry. I'm hurt but I love you always!" he whispered leaving the room.