Welcome back dear readers, Our couple is traveling to the Hampton's as their love story continues. Enjoy, I appreciate your feedback.

Of course, to those wonderful women for helping my story gel-Bree, Marjo, and Stella

Kate woke up early, looked over at Castle and poked him in the ribs. "Time to get up," she said excitedly.

Castle rolled over, opened one eye and seeing the time he groaned. Turning back to Kate he pulled her into his arms. "It's early don't get up yet."

As he nuzzled her neck her scent permeated him, enticing as always, and making him all the more determined to stay in bed. He smiled at the feel of her wrapped in his arms, and thought, I'm one lucky guy.

Kate, on the other hand, had a different idea. She was excited and wanted to get started on their trip. They could cuddle later, once they reached the Hamptons.

"No, let's get up and get an early start." her tone was insistent.

Castle tried to ignore her, but Kate pulled herself away and rolled over until she was sitting on his chest, straddling him. "I'm serious", she leaned down and began to plant little kisses all over his face. "Please, please, please get up."

"You are very convincing." Grinning, he promptly slung Kate off his body and ended up on top of her.

"Ow", Kate gasped as she arched her back, reaching for her side and grabbing the front of Castle's T shirt, as tears sprang to her eyes.

"Hell, Kate", Rick quickly jumped off of her, "I'm so sorry, you were so cute, and I forgot."

"No,... I ...for...got... too, ...nice ...of ...my ...side... to ...re...mind... us, ...huh?" Her words came out in short bursts as the pain had her gasping and breathless. Castle's hand gently rubbed her side, as he kept repeating, "Sorry," over and over.

After a few minutes, the pain receded and Kate looked at Castle's stricken face.

"Rick, it's OK, I'm OK. It happens; I guess I'm still a little hurt." She shrugged her shoulders. "It's my fault. I'm just excited about our trip today."

Castle leaned over Kate carefully and kissed her softly. "I'm awake now," he said, then let out a laugh. "Though I had hoped for a more leisurely wake up period."

"Well, up you get then, it's time for breakfast. Alexis is cooking this morning." she said, smiling at him.

"Great another veggie omelette", he groaned and rolled his eyes.

"She's a great cook, now come on." Kate took her time climbing out of bed as her side was still tender. Castle noticed and immediately started to offer her the option of pain medication.

"No Rick, I'm not drooling all the way to your house, I want to see the sights." Kate cut him off, anticipating his response.

Alexis had just finished serving the food as they entered the kitchen. Initially Castle glanced at his plate of food with apathy, but perked up when he spied sausage patties on his plate. He turned to look at Kate and beamed.

"You're such a baby! Do you think we would let the house carnivore starve?" Kate laughed, tilting her head as she ran her hands through his hair, and lightly smacking his cheek she said. "Eat up."

After breakfast, they got cleaned up and were soon ready to head out. Kate was nearly giddy with anticipation, and she reached out to pick up her bags, when a hand gently stopped her efforts.

"My mother taught me to be a gentleman. You may not always let me help you with your coat, but you don't carry the luggage. That is my job, get used to it, OK?"

"But Rick, I'm perfectly..." Her words halted as he put his hand over her mouth and stared directly into her eyes

.

"Not a point for discussion."

Kate started to interject again, but this time was stopped by Martha.

"Listen, my dear, in a world where there are so few gentlemen, you can take refuge in the knowledge that my son, while not perfect, is always a perfect gentleman." And with that Martha kissed them both, indicated they would be up to visit in a couple of weeks, and disappeared into her room.

Alexis also kissed them both and left for school, calling behind her, "Enjoy and relax about the luggage. He hasn't ever let me carry anything more than my laptop."

"Okay, so that's settled. I'll get this in the car, then we're gone."

"What can I do?"

"Smile and look beautiful,…oh wait, you're already there." He blew her a kiss, picked up the bags and left.

o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o

Kate slowly walked around the loft. She was going to miss this place. She had felt safe and at home here, something that she had never felt at her apartment. Yes, she had tried, placing various personal items around, but it never gave her the peace she felt at the loft. As she surveyed her surroundings, she sighed. It wasn't the loft that gave her a sense of tranquillity, it was the people.

Martha was such a delight, a free spirit, yet a kind and loving woman. Those she loved had her full support, and Kate was thrilled to be considered part of her inner circle.

Then there was Alexis - their relationship had survived a lot of ups and downs. After her shooting last summer, Alexis had been angry at Kate, and rightfully so. She had been so frightened that her father could be injured, or worse, killed. Their relationship recovered somewhat after the bank robbery where Kate had promised the young woman that she would rescue her father and grandmother, and she had succeeded. Kate still got chills as she remembered how close they had come to disaster that day. Kate shook her head as she recalled what had finally cemented their bond. Alexis' unwavering care of Kate during her latest illness. Though Kate remembered little of those days, she had been told that Alexis was by her side every minute until Rick returned home. A daunting task to ask of anyone, but she had risen to the occasion. Kate knew that they would continue to have difficult times, but she was now confident that they would continue to grow closer with time.

The glue in all of this was Rick. She knew from working with him for over three years that he was a great dad and devoted son. Kate smiled as she remembered how he would grumble about his family, well his mother, really. But always took care of them and they in turn adored him. Who wouldn't adore him? Yes, he was a nine year old on a sugar rush, but it was endearing. He may have wild, crazy theories about murder cases, but he had proven to be valuable asset to the team, particularly to her. When they first met and he turned to her, pen in hand, and asked her where would she like it, she was hooked. At first she thought he was a playboy, someone she couldn't trust, yet he had demonstrated that was not the case. They had been through hell more than once and survived. She was so glad she had finally let her feelings be known, though she conceded a public kiss in the bull pen might have been a little over the top. As she continued to travel through the loft, she let her fingers drift over his belongings, bringing her pleasure in knowing they represented Rick. Her face was relaxed, her mouth turned up in a warm smile and tears had welled in her eyes. She turned around and found Castle quietly watching her. He opened his arms and she willingly walked into his embrace. As they hugged, Castle buried his head into her hair. With tennis shoes on today, she fit perfectly in his arms. She leaned away, just enough to gaze into his eyes. Words were not necessary and their lips met in an impassioned kiss. They stood still for a few moments, contentedly wrapped in each other's arms.

Castle was the first to step back, "You ready?"

"Yes, let's go."

When they got downstairs, outside the entry sat his Ferrari.

"We're taking your Ferrari?"

Of course, I have to look the part of a rich writer with a beautiful woman on my arm." He replied coyly.

"You're such a goof," she smacked his arm.

Then she licked her lips and said, "Give me the keys. I want to drive."

"Uh huh, no way am I placing this beauty in the hands of an aggressive New York cop.

Beside, Steve said no driving yet."

"Great is the warden coming with us?" She asked, disgusted.

"Kate, your time will come and then I will gladly hand over the keys. After I increase my life insurance of course." His smirk had increased with each word.

With that comment, she turned and gave him the look, and he shrugged, unaffected and still smirking as he opened the passenger door. Kate climbed in very carefully as the low seat pulled on her side.

"Ok?" Castle queried.

"Yes, start this baby up, time's a wasting."

She pulled her hair up into her hat and placed her sunglasses on. It was a beautiful day for a ride, and his house in Southampton was a two hour drive from Manhattan. Castle had mapped out the route with a planned stop at one of his favorite seafood restaurants about half way to his house. He was concerned that the trip would wear her out, so he would keep a close eye on her, knowing she wouldn't complain.

"Rick, there isn't much room for luggage, so..."

"I had a car take everything ahead. I figured you'd like to take the Ferrari instead of a town car"

About 30 minutes later he looked over, and was glad to see his partner taking a nap. At the halfway point, he pulled into the parking lot of the restaurant, turned off the engine, and leaned in to brush his lips against Kate's cheek.

"Time for a break, love."

"Sorry, I fell asleep. I'm a horrible navigator."

"That's okay, it's pretty boring getting through the city. How about some food? They have wonderful calamari, which if I recall, you love."

A giant grin spread across her face, "let's do it."

She opened the car door and quickly realized she was not going to be able to get out of the low seat. As she pursed her lips and considered how to progress, Rick appeared. He helped her turn her legs out of the car, bent over and lifted her up. Her shaky hands rested on his shoulders, and she used his body to gain stability. Once she felt steady, she relaxed her hold, and put her left arm though his as they proceeded . She uttered a whispered thanks as they entered.

"Rick! Welcome, we have your favorite table ready." Kate snickered, of course he knew the owner, he knew everybody.

"Sam, this is my friend and partner, Kate Beckett. We're headed to out to the house for an extended period of time. I have a book to write and Kate's coming to crack the whip."

Castle never mentioned Kate's needed to recuperate and she appreciated his discretion. Martha had been correct, he was a perfect gentleman.

"You didn't do her justice, Rick. She's a magnificent creature." Sam slapped him on the back and grinned. Kate giggled at the delightful description, instantly liking Sam.

Their table was outside, over-looking the water and very remote. Castle had told Sam what to bring without even looking at a menu.

"Don't I get to look at a menu?" she asked.

"Next time. You'll love my choices, trust me."

The food was delicious, and they had a very relaxed time eating and talking about nothing important. After sharing some of Kate's favorite cheesecake, they decided it was time to continue their trip.

"Ready to get going?"

"Yes." Her voice was slightly hushed. Castle's eyes narrowed, he suspected that she was getting tired. As she rose from the table, she winced and held on to the table for a moment.

"Kate, do you..."

"No pills." She glared and brushed by him.

He helped her get settled in and they continued their trip. Try as she might to stay awake, she drifted off a few times, but never for long. She really wanted to take in the scenery.

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Kate' s breath caught as she began to see beautiful, sprawling houses and she was excite to see his home, as Castle had refused to tell her anything about it. The car slowed and Castle activated the front gate. As they entered the grounds, Kate gasped out loud. The grounds were perfectly manicured and as they drove up the driveway, her mouth dropped open. In front of her stood a modern wood and white stucco house with huge windows everywhere. Kate was intimidated, she had figured it would be a nice place, but this was a mansion!.

"Rick, you never told me..." her voice hesitant.

"Relax it's just something money can buy, but I love it."

They parked the car in the garage and Rick again assisted Kate out of the car. This time it took her a little longer to get her feet under her and . Castle never said a word. He was not going to tease her over this, it would only damage her already wounded pride.

They walked into the house through the garage. To the right were floor- to-ceiling windows that spanned the entire length of the room overlooking the ocean, and off to the left was a huge white fireplace which marked the entry to the kitchen.

"My god, Rick this is...I'm speechless."

"Come out to the patio. It's one of my favorite spots." The patio was massive and at the end was a walkway down to the beach.

"It's a pleasant walk to town to the left and open beach to the right. Let me show you around the house."

Off of the living room was a study and an enormous master suite, about the size of Kate's apartment. He explained that the other 5 bedroom suites were upstairs and on the third level was a pool and a deck with another fireplace.

As they walked around the house, she noted that the house was decorated in a contemporary yet warm motif. There was wood scattered throughout and all of the ceilings were open. Castle had exquisite taste, which matched her own preferences perfectly. She noted that a copy of the painting from her apartment hung in the study, and under the painting was an area designed for her with her computer set up on a rosewood desk. He had remembered how much she loved the warmth and colour of rosewood. Her hand ran over the top of the piece and Kate was blown away, both by his house, but more importantly by his thoughtfulness. As she looked back to find Castle watching her she smiled, and Castle was pleased she liked his house.

"Look, I even had them build you a nest on the end of the couch so you can look out at the ocean."

He was adorable and so considerate. She walked over to him, pulled his head down to her and kissed him with all the passion and love she could communicate.

"Thank you, for all of this." she murmured.

Castle read her face, knew she was exhausted and it was time for her to rest.

"Let me show you where your things are, so you can get into something comfortable." They entered the bedroom, went straight to the closet and he showed her where her clothes were and pointed in the direction of the bathroom.

He started to leave, but she grabbed his arm, "Stay with me."

He helped her out of her traveling clothes and into her yoga pants and NYPD t-shirt. She went to the bathroom and then re-joined him in the bedroom.

"Where do you want to go?"

"The nest of course." Her nose wrinkled as if there was some other place she'd rather be.

They walked arm in arm. She was trembling slightly, but made it to the couch. He helped her get climb in and as she attempted to get comfortable, she unknowingly let out a slight moan and a grimace spread on her face. When she raised her eyes, Castle was there, pills and water in hand. She took them without protest. As her side ached and burned like hell. How could sitting in a car be so hard?

Kate leaned back and looked out to the ocean. Living in the city, she had forgotten how calming yet invigorating the ocean could be. As she considered this phenomenon, Castle joined her on the couch. He brought his laptop, figuring he could get some work done while she rested. As he glanced at Kate, a contented smile came over his face. Sam had been right, she was magnificent. With that he reached under the covers and brought her bare feet onto his lap. He methodically began to massage her feet.

"Oh, my", she whispered. "You know this will put me to sleep, right?"

"Just trying to re-energize you, my dear. I have such plans for us, but first you need to get well."

"Don't leave me in suspense. Tell me now."

No way, a little at a time. I don't want to show my hand too soon. A little intrigue my friend, is good for the soul." His favorite I-know-something-you-don't smirk covered his face.

She should been irritated about the secrecy, but found his words strangely seductive. She leaned over, with some effort, grabbing his hair and pulling him to meet her lips. He tasted wonderful, touching him made her heart quicken and a warm flush passed through her.

"Enough tempting me Detective, time for you to rest."

"You know, just because I'm out of commission, doesn't mean I can't give you some help." Even as she suggested it, she blushed.

"My, my, that is a very generous proposal which I must turn down. When we get the green light, we will make love together, and I will take lots of kissing in the interim." He slid his hand down her cheek and behind her head drawing her into him, their kiss this time was gentle and soft with promises of things to come

When he pulled away, he noted her eyes were becoming glassy. Good he thought the medicine is working. He tucked her feet back under the covers and retreated to his end of the couch.

Later, as the sun was beginning to set, Rick whispered in her ear.

"Want to see the sun set from the upstairs deck?"

"Absolutely, just let me wake up first." Kate rubbed her hands over her eyes as she tried to clear her brain. Soon she was on her feet, a little unsteady, but determined.

Rick had a sweatshirt waiting for her as well as socks and shoes.

"I started a fire upstairs, it should be beautiful."

With her new clothes on, Kate indicated she was ready to go.

"It's up two flights can you make it?"

"Seriously?" She had wrinkled her brows and pursed her lips

Rick realized that unless he let her do this, the night could turn ugly.

"Ok, let me escort you, madam." Rick bowed from the waist and offered his hand to Kate. That manoeuvre stopped her spurt of anger and she laughed.

"My pleasure, milord." She took his hand, and he tucked her arm through his as he began to climb the stairs. He was wise enough to proceed slowly and as they went from step to, her grip on his arm tightened. Good grief, she had gotten out of shape.

They stepped onto the deck. Kate was slightly out of breath, but wouldn't complain for the world. As she recovered, she looked around, the roof top was beautiful and the pool inviting. She asked, pointing to the pool, "Is it heated?"

"Of course. You think I' m going swimming in a cold body of water. Remember just because I live in New York doesn't mean I'm not a beach boy at heart."

She smiled as she saw the fire in the fireplace, and looked to the west as the sun began its descent into darkness. This place held so much magic, it was nearly spiritual.

Rick came up behind her, "Are you warm enough, love, let's move closer to the fire."

"Hum, it may be a little chilly, but hang on to me and I'll be fine."

He wrapped his frame around hers. She was so small in comparison to him and fit into her perfectly. He started to describe the various landmarks of the area and she listened engrossed in his explanations. Life with this woman will be beyond compare, he thought as he pulled her closer and her scent burned into his memory. As the sun slid behind the horizon, she spun around and kissed his cheek.

"This is better than I ever imagined."

"My house?"

"Well, yes, but I was referring specifically to being here with you, dummy." Shaking her head, she chuckled. Could he be that naive? No, but she had sent him mixed messages over the years and they had never been good at communicating. They had nearly died several times and never talked about it. They had kissed and ignored the obvious feelings that they both had for each other. She had lied to him and he forgave her. Yes, he had many reasons to be confused.

"You're right, I can be cryptic sometimes, but just so we're clear, Mister Castle. I am in love with you. Now and forever. Does that make it clearer?" she ended with a wink.

"Crystal."

Rick was stunned by her honesty and in the heat of her admission, he swept her into his arms and they descended to the living room.