A/N: Need to thank my betas Tycho657 and Xonze for helping me with this final chapter of the story. Both have been a great encouragement to me throughout it. RKCaskett has also been a great ear for when I needed to talk parts of the story out or just encourage me to write. I hope everyone enjoys the final chapter and leave a review if you should feel so inclined. As usual, the characters in this story belong to ABC and the brilliant Andrew Marlowe.

Instead of heading directly into the interrogation room holding their suspect, Kate veered off toward the other side of the glass. She liked to size up her opponents before going in for the kill and this case was no exception. Kate felt Castle's shoulder brush her own as they watched Bobby casually sit in one of the chairs, acting like he'd done nothing wrong. His eyes told another story as they shifted all around the room. Another few minutes and he would be right where she wanted him.

"It's a game for you isn't it?" She heard Castle ask as she turned her head to look at him.

She raised an eyebrow, considered his question for a moment. She couldn't really argue with the assessment, she got a rush out of breaking a suspect; a rush out of digging for the truth and making her suspect spill their guts, in a sense. She assumed the rush was the same as a star athlete would get. The difference being that when she won she got something better than a trophy. She got closure for the victim's family.

I'm very good at what I do in the box." She answered honestly but continued, "It's more important that I'm able to give some closure to the victim's family and friends."

"A closure you are still hoping to find yourself."

"Yes, but some closure is better than having nothing." Kate said softly as she let her hand drift over to his where they laced their fingers briefly.

Kate and Castle watched as Bobby started to shift more in his seat the longer he sat in the room. Kate figured this was giving him time to stew over his actions and what the worst case scenarios could be. This guy was no stranger to the joint so he knew what he was facing. Taking a deep breath to mentally prepare herself, she let go of Castle's hand, squared her shoulders and opened the door to the room.

XOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOX

Kate and Castle walked into the room and sat down directly across from Bobby. She waited a moment as she glared directly into his eyes, letting him know she wasn't going to put up with much. This was her playing field and just by her posture everyone who opposed her knew they had to play by her rules.

"Bobby Stinelli, just what exactly were you doing with all those World War II artifacts? You don't strike me as a collector."

"How would you know what a collector looks like, Detective? It's possible I was borrowing the stuff for research of my own."

"Really? That's what you're going with? I would think that an experienced thug, like yourself, would have come up with something more creative."

"Why would I have to be creative when you can't prove anything anyway?"

"You're absolutely sure that we can't prove anything Bobby? Because from where I stand, we wouldn't have you here if we didn't have something." Castle chimed in upon Beckett's slight nod.

"Prove it."

Kate calmly took out a picture of the victim from the folder she carried in with her and slid it across the table to him. He was not going to willingly confess to anything so now it was time to give him some encouragement.

"Let's start with the picture of Katarina Footelli, the lady you killed. You see that thin line along her neck? I bet you thought what you used to strangle her would be untraceable but you were wrong." Kate started.

"I didn't kill anyone lady. You can ask my boy that you talked to already. He'll back me up."

"Funny you should mention him. We did in fact talk to him which is how we tracked you down. You see your boy wasn't as loyal to you as you thought he would be. He told us everything. I believe that is called saving his own ass. So, now what you got?" Castle said.

"By your boy telling us where you were hiding, we were able to arrest your ass and search your place. I'm betting, by the look on your face right now, you know exactly what we found among the artifacts."

Bobby Stinelli just shrugged his shoulders not willing to give in quite yet. Kate knew she would get him to break soon just by the fact that his voice was starting to crack in his responses back to her.

"You see here is what I think happened Bobby. You were involved in a lucrative job to steal World War II artifacts, in particular ones that were used by the French Resistance and Intelligence Communities. Was working pretty well for a while until Katarina stumbled upon your group and was getting ready to blow the whistle to her employers. You couldn't allow that so you tried to get your boy to take care of it for you. When he refused, you decided to take care of her yourself. You watched her for a while, getting to know her patterns while looking for the right moment. Am I close?"

"You might be. She was a strong bitch, I'll admit to that for sure. How her boys could put up with her beating them week after week at the gym is something I'll never understand."

"You knew she would be able to take you even with a gun based on her hand to hand combat training so you looked at what you could use that you had already stolen. You saw this wire noose with a handle and you knew it would take her down quietly and efficiently."

Kate took that moment to pause and slid a picture of the touché de le verve' over to Bobby.

"Funny how the line on Katarina's neck is exactly the mark that this wire noose would have caused. The prints on this weapon match yours Bobby. You killed Katarina."

Kate felt Bobby try and stare her down. Almost to see who would tip their hand first but no one could stare down a suspect better than her. This was her territory and with a raise of her eyebrow, Bobby flinched first.

"Yeah, well she had it coming. The nerve of her to try and put a stop to the best gig I scored since getting out of prison. I wasn't going to let anyone spoil it for me so I got rid of the problem." Bobby yelled.

"Well that problem, as you call her, had a family, a daughter and husband who loved her. By killing her, you brought on a whole host of problems of which you have never seen. You see, prisoners don't usually take a liking to murders who leave young daughters without a mom. Have fun with that while you face first degree murder."

Kate looked back at the two way mirror knowing the guys were watching the whole thing unfold. She knew by just giving them a look, they would be in to take Bobby away. She had her confession so all that remained was informing the victim's family and friends. Something that, while satisfying, she never looked forward to but knew it would bring them much needed closure.

As she watched Bobby being led away by Esposito and Ryan, she headed over to her desk to make two necessary phone calls.

As she sat down and reached for her phone, she felt Castle's hand lightly touching her free hand. She casually turned her hand over and let her fingers intertwine with his. These calls would not be easy and with the guys busy taking Bobby down to processing she could allow herself some support.

"Yes, may I speak to Mr. Footelli please. This is Detective Kate Beckett, I was working on your wife's case. We caught the guy who killed her. Unfortunately it all tied back to something she stumbled into at work and was about to report. Yes sir, we'll have someone let you know when he goes to trial. Thank you and good luck with everything." Kate said as she hung up the phone letting out a small breath.

Kate looked at her cell and realized it was around the time that Katarina's coworkers would be at the gym. Instead of calling, she thought her and Castle could stop by on the way to the Loft. Normally she would stay to do paperwork but thought she would give her team a break and let everyone have a nice evening instead. Paperwork could wait for once.

"Hey guys, back from processing I see. Nice work on the case. What do you say we call it an early day and leave the cleanup for tomorrow?" Kate suggested.

"Who are you and what have you done with Beckett? I thought you always finished paperwork after we closed a case. What, you got a hot date tonight or something?" Esposito quipped.

"Or something...my offer is a short term offer so take it or leave it."

"Oh, you don't have to tell me twice. I'm out of here. Maybe I'll pick up something on the way home to surprise Jenny."

"Yeah bro, I'm out too. See you tomorrow."

"Bright and early guys. We still have paperwork to finish up before this case is officially closed." Kate reminded as both guys headed for the elevator.

"Yeah sure. No problem." They both said as the elevator doors closed.

She turned to Castle and leaned into him enough to brush her mouth against his ear. "So, you ready to go? We do have a private party to look forward to tonight. After Alexis leaves on her date of course."

"Of course, lead the way."

XOXOXOXOXOXO

As Kate pulled away from gym, after informing Katarina's coworkers that they caught her killer, she thought back to something Brent said to her just as she was leaving. He told her how she reminded him a lot of Katarina, about how the thing that set Katarina apart was her knowing when to take a risk and when to fall back and let those who loved her support her. She never let an opportunity pass her up or scare her from doing something. Something to think about indeed.

"What is going through that head of yours, Kate? You are being unusually quiet when I thought you would be happy we solved this case and brought everyone some closure."

"Just something Brent said as we were leaving..." Kate said but didn't elaborate.

"You mean what he said about risks and knowing when to let people support you. Yeah, I thought that might get to you because I know it got to me."

"Seriously? You, the person who wears his heart on his sleeve and is definitely not afraid to take risks based on your past history." Kate said as she glanced his direction.

"Calculated risks Kate, and usually ones that I'm fairly sure my heart will win. Appearances and attitudes can be deceiving. Just because one comes across as confident doesn't make it true in matters of the heart."

"So do you think you are ready to take another risk even if the outcome may be uncertain?" Kate casually asked.

Kate felt Castle reach over and intertwine their fingers together. He then brought her hand up to his mouth and lightly brushed his mouth along her knuckles.

"Only if this amazingly complex person took that risk with me. I think it could be quite the ride and one I never intend to get off."

"I'm not sure you could handle the ride you are about to take, Castle but hearing you scream along the way would be worth it." Kate teased.

She felt Castle brush his lips once more over her's and was starting to move close to her neck just as they arrived in front of his building. While not opposed to where this was leading, she knew she needed to distract both of them in order to get through dinner with Alexis. The last thing she wanted was to have Alexis watch things heat up between herself and her dad so she leaned over and gave Castle a smoldering kiss that would have to last them till they could be on their own.

"What was that kiss for? Trying to get me all hot and bothered before seeing my teenage, very impressionable daughter?"

"Just a preview of what is to come tonight if you keep your hands to yourself in front of your very perceptive and sweet daughter. Now, what's for dinner? I'm famished." Kate said.

"Well, I'm not sure what exactly Alexis has cooked up for us. When I texted her earlier about dinner plans, she insisted on surprising both of us. "

"We better get up there then and see." Kate said as she grabbed his hand and headed toward the elevator.

XOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXO

Just as Castle started to unlock the door to the loft, Kate saw the door open to a very excited, red headed young lady.

"Detective Beckett! Dad texted me that you would be joining us for dinner. Come in, come in and make yourself at home." Kate heard as Alexis ushered her inside. "Hi, Dad."

"Daughter. Nice of you to remember your dear old dad. You know the one who raised you and pays your allowance."

Kate watched as Alexis rolled her eyes but leaned over and gave Castle a peck on the cheek.

"You know I love you dad. It's just nice to have another female at the Loft for once."

"Hey, what about Gram?" Castle said.

"Seriously? Gram and her drama antics don't count. Not that I don't love her because I do. So you guys ready to eat?"

Kate couldn't help but chuckle at the easy banter between Alexis and Castle. It was fun to see a side of Castle she often didn't get to see unless he was coming to her for advice.

"Sure. What can I do to help?" Kate asked

"Oh no, you two sit down and relax. I've got dinner covered."

"If you're sure, I'll just grab some wine for Kate and I before we sit down." Castle said.

"Sure, I've got the table all set for us so you can head over to it."

Kate felt Castle's hand brush along her own as she was handed a glass of wine. She thought she would tease back some by running her fingers down his arm as she turned to head toward the table. Neither one noticed that Alexis had watched the whole interaction nor saw the smile that crossed her face.

While waiting for Alexis to finish up, Kate heard Castle lift up his glass and quietly propose a toast.

"To taking risks in all matters of the heart and never missing another chance at what one wants."

"I'll toast to that, Castle." They clinked glasses but before they could drink Kate leaned in and continued brushing her lips lightly against his ear "And you know exactly what I want don't you?"

Before Castle could retaliate with his own remark, Kate saw Alexis coming forward, dinner in hand. She leaned back and smiled at her but not before running her foot casually up the inside of Castle's leg.

"Dinner is served."

"Smells great kiddo. Looks like you put a lot of effort despite your date with Ashley tonight. I'm flattered," Castle teased.

"Yeah, Alexis. I'm surprised you were able to get this cooked with all you have going on tonight." Kate added.

"Oh, it's nothing really. Just some baked pasta that I threw together. I figured after a hard case, you'd want some comfort food and for me, any kind of pasta fills that need."

"Well, we appreciate it. Beats take out and a home cooked meal is nice every once in a while." Kate said as she took a bite.

"You're welcome here any time, Detective Beckett at least as far as I'm concerned. I'm sure Dad here wouldn't object either."

"I have no doubt he wouldn't object so tell me about this date with Ashley tonight. I only get to hear about him through your dad and I'm sure he's a tad biased. Alexis, you can call me Kate when we aren't at the station or on official business."

Kate watched out of the corner of her eye as Castle sat back and listen to them talk about Alexis's plans for tonight and other topics. He had that glint in his eye, but also something else she couldn't quite pinpoint. She wanted to say he almost had a look of contentment while he ate his food and if she was honest with herself, felt the same way.

"Oh look at the time, I need to get upstairs and get changed for my date. Ashley will be picking me up soon. Dad behave yourself if he comes before I'm ready."

"Oh, don't worry Alexis, I'll make sure to distract him from doing anything too stupid." Kate said.

Kate waited until Alexis was in her room before she leaned in toward Castle. He apparently had the same idea as they ended up meeting in the middle.

"So, Kate, exactly how are you going to keep me distracted?"

"I have many ways to keep you distracted, Rick. Most of which are inappropriate while your daughter is upstairs but for now this will have to do." Kate leaned in and lightly brushed her lips against his. She pulled back just enough to look him in the eyes before kissing him again. The kiss started to deepen and hands were starting to roam when a knock was heard announcing the arrival of Ashley.

Kate pulled back so Castle could get up and open the door to allow Ashley into the Loft.

"Come on in, Ashley. You know Detective Beckett or have at least seen her when you were down at the precinct last. "

"Yes, sir and hello Detective Beckett. It's nice to finally meet you officially. Alexis has mentioned you to me a few times."

"Did she now? Hope it was all good. I do carry a gun, not that I would use it on sweet Alexis or anything." Kate quipped. She couldn't help but tease him some.

"Oh yes ma'am. She spoke very highly of you."

"Speak of the devil. Here she comes now. Alexis have a good time tonight. Don't do anything I wouldn't do and I would do a lot. On second thought, maybe you shouldn't follow in my footsteps." Castle said quickly.

"What? Afraid there's more of you in me than you wanted? Don't worry, Dad, Ashley is a perfect gentleman." She looked down at her watch, her breath caught, "And we need to be going if we are going to catch this movie. Bye Dad. Bye Kate"

Kate watched the door close and Castle locked up before he walked back toward her.

"Now, what do you say we continue what was so rudely interrupted?"

"I say bring it on, Rick," Kate said softly. She lifted her face toward his and let her heart take control.

XOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOX

Kate felt Castle lean in and lightly touch his lips to her own. She reached her arms up and laced her fingers around his neck as he put his around her waist to pull her in tighter. For a long moment they just explored each other's mouths with light nips, each learning what the other liked while making sure not to push too hard or too fast. As things slowed between them, she heard Castle mumble, "I believe the only teenager in this relationship with the raging hormones to boot would be you, not that I can't take advantage of them."

"I think that offer sounds doable." Kate said.

"Never thought I would see the day that Kate Beckett would be willing to take advantage of little ole me. Although I believe at this point I can give back as much as you dish out."

"Is that a challenge, Rick? Because I don't back down from anything or anyone." Kate paused for a moment as her eyes travelled down his body and took notice of the bulge straining his pants. "As for little, by what I can see that is far from the truth and we both know how I always seek the truth."

Kate then leaned in to kiss Rick once more before he turned and led them toward the chairs in his office. She felt herself being pulled down onto his lap as he sat down. Definitely not a place she expected to be led knowing his history but one that seemed right for them.

They stopped for a moment to just gaze into each other's eyes. Each searching the other for answers, for what this could mean for the future.

"Kate, I..." Castle started but Kate interrupted

"Rick, I know and I feel it too."

She then leaned in and lightly kissed Rick's lips as she let her hands roam over his chest, taking note of how muscular he felt. She felt his hands lightly dance along her back, occasionally straying to just under her rib cage causing her whole body to tense up some in anticipation.

"You know, I didn't know you worked out. From what I can tell though, you must do it more than you let on." Kate said as she let her lips trace along his jaw line while Castle's hands were drifting dangerously close to the front of her.

"What can I say? I like to try and look good for the ladies, scratch that, I like to try and look good for one special lady. You know, the kind that carries a gun and could kick my ass any time she felt like it."

"Nice save Rick. Seriously though, we should work out together sometime at the precinct. Some mat work might be fun."

"I bet it would. Just name the time and I'll be there, but for now I've got other things we can do to keep ourselves occupied. We may even work up an appetite for the desert that Alexis left for us."

Kate looked at Rick with her eyebrows raised. It sounded very enticing and something to consider for later, desert wise.

"I could use a workout about now, of the lips variety. Maybe use my arms to move along your body and feel every inch of what I have to look forward to when we are ready to take that next step." Kate said suggestively.

It was her way of slowing things down. Tonight was about more than sleeping together. Tonight was about exploring each other. Learning about what made the other really tick and how they would move forward from this point without any outside distractions. For once, they were on the same page and could take their time.

Tracing each other's face with their fingertips, they each had a look of contentment and anticipation of what was to come.

No more missed chances, only opportunities of what they could build on from this moment in time.