20 weeks.
Castle smoothed his hand over Kate's rounded stomach. Seven weeks had passed since he had learned he would be a father again. Hopefully be a father again. There were many risks involved. Premature labour, placental abruption, heavy bleeding. Too many to mention, but Kate's heart giving out either before, during or after labour was the most worrying. She was asleep now, safe by his side. The family had been told, their friends at the 12th and Gates. They were all informed of the risks involved. Gates had put Kate on light duties, much to Kate's dismay. A few stern words from Castle had her pipe down though. Three days a week Kate would be at the precinct, the other four days she would take it easy at home. Castle was instrumental in Gates decision.
So here they were side by side dozing after making love in the mid afternoon on their day off. At first Castle had made sex off limits after Kate passed the 20 week mark, stating there should be no unnecessary exertion. This was not a decision made lightly. Kate was even sexier pregnant than he ever thought possible, maybe something to do with her carrying his child. To make matters worse Kate was feeling sexier than ever, she wanted Castle ALL the time! When Castle had laid down the law, Kate had not been happy. She begged, she cried...Castle stood his ground. Then she got angry. She didn't utter a word to him for a whole twenty four hours. He finally broke this afternoon, carrying her to their bedroom and worshipping her ever so gently. Kate had whispered in his ear "I'm not made of glass Rick, you won't break me". This eased his mind a little, but he wasn't taking any chances.
"Hey beautiful" Castle whispered as Kate turned to him, sheet draped over her. He pulled her closer, her stomach against his. Her head on his chest. The top of her head nestled under his chin. "Hey" she whispered against his skin still half asleep. "We need to get ready for the ultrasound babe" Castle whispered against her hair. Kate stayed quiet. "Kate? Are you okay?" Castle asked lifting her chin. She looked up at him. "It's just...I'm scared Castle. I'm scared of what the doctors might tell us" Kate sobbed.
"Kate honey you're doing great. I know you're tired. I know you're doing the best you can. You need to take it easier. Don't push yourself. Everything will be fine" Castle said honestly.
"I don't tell you enough how much I love you Rick. I love you so much." Kate pressed a soft kiss to castle lips, which Castle deepened. The Kate pulled back. "Appointment Castle quick!" Kate shouted and jumped up. "Excuse me Katherine! I seem to recall letting you know that...ummm about 15 minutes ago. If we're late, you're to blame. I love you too by the way" Castle laughed.
Once dressed. They left hand in hand. This appointment was the halfway mark. They would find out how Kate was doing physically, how the baby was developing, any concerns the doctor had and also the sex of the baby.
I'm sorry it's short. Flat out like a lizard drinking (did I mention I'm Australian!) Job, house, holidays, flu. I fully intend to do better on the next chapter...Just a little bridging chapter I guess to push those weeks along. As much as I'd like to go week by week. Its cutting into my time reading fanfics myself!