Our love story continues, in this chapter our couple is gaining more confidence with each other, they are honest and open. Such a pleasure. The relationship between our duo and his family is growing stronger. Please enjoy.

My story always (not a slip) gets better after my three friends get through reviewing it-Bree, Marjo, Stella-you're the best!

The next three days were a repeat of the first twenty four hours. Kate's medication meant she slept for long periods of time, while Rick ensured she continued to eat and drink regularly. When she was awake, all she wanted was to lie next to him and have him read what he was working on. Even partially coherent, she was able to add suggestions and critique his work. Castle firmly believed this joint collaboration would be his best novel yet, as their evolving love story permeated his work.

Rick kept in contact with everyone in the city with each of them offering to come and help him care for Kate, which he declined, knowing she would be mortified to have anyone see her so vulnerable. With Rick she relaxed, let the situation flow and the medication keep her comfortable without worrying how she came across. He wanted to both care for her and protect her. When they were on a case, she ran the show and kept him safe. For this, he was in charge and she didn't fight him. He smiled, realising that although she was ill, their bond continued to grow with each passing moment.

Alexis and Martha were distressed about Kate being sick. On the first day, Alexis insisted she speak directly to Kate, fearing her father was not being totally honest with them. During one of Kate's more lucid periods, he called Alexis and Kate spoke with her, explaining everything to Alexis in detail. Her face was fixed in total concentration as she tried to focus while under the drugged haze, and Rick was overwhelmed by her – the time and energy she expended to comfort his daughter. They talked for nearly thirty minutes and as their conversation came to a close, Kate made Alexis promise to come visit them for the coming weekend. Rick noted that Kate was beginning to struggle and came to her rescue. He took the phone from her, spent a couple of minutes talking with his daughter and mother before ending the call. Kate had leaned back against the cushions, her eyes closed and worn out from her talk with Alexis.

"Hey, good job there. Alexis was terrified for you, she's become very attached to you."

"She's gone through enough, and she's her father's daughter, a worrier." Kate opened her eyes, stroked his jaw and smiled weakly.

"I think that's enough exercise for now."

"Probably," she mumbled as and she slid down, sleep reclaiming her.

Mid-morning of day four, Rick stopped writing and looked over at Kate, realising she had opened her eyes and was clearing her head. She crawled over to Rick.

"How's my writer boy doing?"

"Just pounding away. How are you?"

"Currently I am not drooling, so I guess we could consider that progress?" Kate said with a hint of frustration in her voice.

"I called Steve this morning, I told him how you were and gave you a good report. He said to continue until your temperature is normal for 24 hours and then no more sedation, just antibiotics and pain meds. You should be Ok for the weekend."

"Weekend?" She had no idea what he was talking about.

"You invited Alexis and Mother to visit. No memory, huh?" he chuckled.

"Damn you, it's not funny. Anything else, you care to share?" she scowled at her writer.

"Oh so much, Detective. My lips are sealed…Although it would make fascinating reading."

Kate pulled away and began moving back to her spot, in no mood to be teased. Rick halted her movement, turned her over, and kissed her lightly.

"I would never do anything to embarrass you. All of this has been strictly between us, as it should be." His eyes were sincere and she knew he would protect her, so why was she worrying?

"I shouldn't have teased you, I just wanted to make you smile," he assured her.

"Sorry, cranky Beckett seems to be here again," she frowned, "by the way, what did you do to me while I was so out of it?" Kate was fully awake now, and very curious.

"Not much," he shrugged his shoulders.

"Really. Why don't I believe you, spill it, now!"

"Hum, I may have taken some photos." he smiled, while trying to look innocent.

"Oh, no you didn't." she sighed. "Show me!"

"Come on, Kate, they're cute."

"I'll be the judge of that. Now, Castle!"

"Okay, Okay, relax." He leaned down and picked up his computer.

"You have them on your computer?" She was now clearly annoyed with him.

"Wait, really, they're just for me, I put them in a secure file."

"Now", her expression was icy.

"Come here," he said softly. She crawled over to him and slid into his side. He opened the file and began showing her the photos. "Look, see how cute you are".

Each one had been taken when she was completely relaxed, most with her smiling and reaching for him or touching his arm with her foot. One had her sitting on the toilet seat with her head on the counter asleep, her eyes partially closed with a drugged induced smile. None were incriminating, but to Kate they would have been embarrassing because they showed her so open and her mind so exposed, which was not a side many people saw of her.

"See Kate you're fantastic and so beautiful, even when you are sick. These are only for me, no one else." She was smiling as she sighed.

"I guess they're okay for private use, but I better never see them anywhere but on your computer, got it." She poked his chest.

He started to say something smart, but decided to leave well enough alone, he didn't want to push her too far.

She decided it was time for her to get up, and as she tried to move off the couch, he calmly said "haven't we had this discussion?" before helping her to the bathroom.

As they returned to the couch, Kate asked "If I behave myself, can you back off on the sedation, please?"

Her eyes were begging him, and he squeezed her shoulder, "OK, we'll try, but Steve said the antibiotics and pain meds continue, deal?"

"Deal." Just the thought of not being so fuzzy, brought a smile to her face.

She dozed intermittently until he brought lunch. As she ate, she decided that life may have thrown her a number of curve balls, but it was time to take back control. Kate sat quietly, looking at the ocean, as she stroked her finger on the couch, her face deep in thought. Rick looked at her, he could tell she was mulling over something important but waited patiently and remained quiet.

Kate started slowly, "my mother's death was a wonderful excuse to hide from life, to shut myself off from the world. I blamed all my problems on that one incident, and it took over my life. I quit doing the things I loved to do, because in doing them I thought of her, and that made me sad. She was such a wonderful woman; bright, loving and gentle. She showed me the beauty of everyday things, and we just loved being together. Once she was gone, I was so bitter and angry. I needed to let that go and remember the joy she brought me. The wonderful things she taught me and the amazing times we spent together. Rick, I want to draw again, not for my mom, but for me and for you. Would you please bring me my sketching supplies? "

Rick was speechless. Even sick, Kate was able to make sense of life and move forward, and he realized this had been a monumental step for her. He drew her into his arms, holding her close with his head in her hair and tears ran down his face.

Kate wrapped her arms around Rick as she continued. "This would never have happened if you weren't here for me. You give me courage and strength, and we will do magical things together, so stop crying, this is good"

Kate wiped the tears from his face and gently kissed each feature of his face.

Once he was composed, Rick left and returned with her art supplies. She gradually pulled out everything and began organizing each item. She needed to decide if there was anything lacking before she could get started. As she chewed her lip, Rick watched her, fascinated.

After a while she looked up. "You're staring."

"Sorry, I just love watching you."

"In my line of work, that's called stalking, it's a felony"

"So arrest me…cuff me,"' he raised an eyebrow in challenge.

"Don't tempt me. But I'll wait until you least expect it, and then this kitten will be cuffed."

"Don't call me kitten." He managed with a straight face, before both of them burst into laughter.

"I need to practice using the dip pens and nibs again, my fingers have lost the feel." She sat, rubbing her fingers before dipping the pen and stroking ink on the fresh paper. Her face was determined as her eyes moved across the page. Rick sat back and picked up his laptop. He tried to write, but was too intent on watching Kate. She was focused, but her face softened as the pen moved, becoming lost in her task as she feverishly worked the ink on the paper. He watched as she continued for nearly an hour, before a long sigh escaped and she set her pen down, holding the paper now filled with ink strokes in front of her. After a couple of minutes, she frowned.

"I'm really rusty, this may take some time."

"Let me see."

"Rick, it's really rough."

He jumped up and moved behind her. She attempted to keep it out of his sight, but he wouldn't let her hide. Looking at her work, he could see it was instantly recognizable as the tree she had shown him in central park.

"Wow, this is good, especially since you've been away from drawing for so long."

"No, see, look at these strokes, they don't flow, they're thick. I need more practice. This is trash." she replied, disgusted.

"No way, this is special, it's meaningful and it's mine."

"Rick, I'll draw something better, just give me some time."

"OK, but right now I have this."

Kate carefully put her tools away. She was overcome with fatigue, but it was good tiredness, she had earned it. Leaning back into the cushions, she closed her eyes.

The afternoon light was waning and the room was dimming. Rick put his computer away, reached over and pulled Kate up into his arms. Without opening her eyes, she snuggled into his arms. He provided her with such strength, warmth and most assuredly love.

"How are you feeling?"

"Not bad, mostly tired, the headache is gone for now."

"I have some chicken and dumplings cooking, sound good?"

"Hum, you remembered how much I love that. Just give me a minute, I need some Castle time."

"Your wish is my command."

She dozed for a bit longer, before opening her eyes, "I'm ready for food now."

"I'll be right back."

Rick returned with a full tray. He set her up before returning for his.

"It smells divine." She took her first bite, frowned slightly, then took another and glanced at Rick.

"Whose recipe is this? It's familiar, is...is this from my dad?"

"Very impressive, once a detective always a detective. I called your dad and got some of your favorite recipes."

"Incredible, you are a man full of surprises." a soft smile swept her face.

After dinner, Kate crawled up by Castle, melting into him, her head on his chest. Her scent permeated his senses, and he kissed her head as he continued to breathe her in.

"Want me to read to you?"

"Uh-hum."

He started reading, and she started moving her hand over his chest, drawing circles as he read about Nikki's latest adventures. The movement of her fingers gradually slowed and eventually stopped, Rick gazed down at Kate, her face slack as she had fallen asleep. A slow smile of adoration transformed his face, as he rested his head on hers. Today had been a huge step forward for Kate, she had made the decision to replace the intense sadness of her mother's death and turn her life into an act of hope.

Castle was so inspired he wrote for hours. It was Kate's stirring that broke his concentration, as he looked at the time on his computer before turning it off. He positioned himself so he could lift Kate without waking her. The feel of her warmed his soul and as he climbed in bed with her, he shook with the knowledge that their love was better than he ever imagined it could be.

"Thought you would want to celebrate, it's been over 24 hours without a fever", he handed her a latte with heavy foam, just the way she liked it.

"That is good news", Kate smiled, but as she moved to the headboard, she winced. Before, Rick could mention her grimace, Kate asked for some pain medication, determined not to move backward again.

"How about a shower?" His voice pulled her from her thoughts.

"Turn the water on, I'm on my way."

"Easy, my dear, you're wings have been clipped so take it slow, there's no rush." He helped support her to the waiting shower.

Kate was tiring of the platonic showers and not sure how much longer she could resist the physical yearnings, so was relieved when the shower ended.

After breakfast, Kate settled down on the couch with her drawing supplies in hand.

"Rick, do you think Alexis would run by the art store and get me some supplies?"

"Of course, just make a list."

Later that afternoon, they had retired to the bedroom, both intent on reading and maybe a nap. Kate was having problems concentrating on reading, she glanced in Castle's direction and became lost in remembering how much pleasure they had experienced making love. She couldn't take any more, so she slid next to him, closed his computer and pulled her to him. As he looked into her eyes, the desire that filled them took his breath.

"Kate, kissing, rem..." her mouth engulfed his, silencing him.

"I'm done kissing, make love to me now."

"But..." His words stopped as Kate reached into his boxers. "Kate, watch out those are attached."

"Not for long, if you don't do as I ask." As she looked into his eyes, she saw his frown and look of concern.

"Rick, I'm OK. Please, I need you."

She pulled him back to her, their lips wild with passion. Their caresses became slow, languishing on each area, as they both realized the end would come quickly, and they fought to make their feelings linger. Her hands grabbed his hips and thighs and she drove her hips to him. The intensity grew finally culminating together, leaving both breathless and Kate faint. God, she had forgotten what a wonderful, caring lover he was. Kate kept her eyes closed, afraid to let him see how exhausted she was. She didn't care, it was worth all of it for them to be lovers again.

"How about a little nap?" he suggested, sensing her fatigue.

"Good idea," she murmured, sinking into a contented sleep.

He was fully awake and wrote while she slept. Even partially sick she was a fantastic lover, and he smiled, thinking of how much more delightful love making would be when she was fully recovered. He leaned over, pulled her to him and kissed her neck. He murmured, "Kate, you want to get up?"

Her eyes opened part way, but try as she might they refused to fully open. It was clear she was not going to wake up, so he turned her on her side and tucked the covers around her.

The morning sun woke her and Kate opened her eyes. How long had she been asleep?

She slowly got out of bed, and noticed she was sore, and then as she remembered yesterday's events, a fulfilled smile passed over her lips. It was so worth it, she thought.

Looking around, she wondered where was he? She found him on the patio, coffee in hand and a notepad in front of him. Kate shook her head at his compulsive list making. She leaned over his shoulder to look at the list and he covered it as he reached up trapping her jaw.

"You are such a snoop, will you settle for coffee?"

"Absolutely, what time is it?"

"10:30. If you sleep this long after each time we make love, any chance of making love multiple times a day will be impossible."

"Ha ha, very funny, guess you just swept me off my feet. Where's my coffee?"

"Sit down, I'll be right back."

She perused the list while he brought her coffee. Rick handed her the cup and pulled her onto his lap.

"So here's the plan for the weekend. Thought we would do a lobster fest on Saturday. The plans for the remodel will arrive today and I want us to look them over before we show them. Then…"

Kate held up her hand and interrupted his plans. "Hold on big guy, why not just play it by ear, at least a little."

"Really, with my mother?"

"She's great, give her a break."

"Remember the play?"

"And into the woods we go", she laughed.

Kate had missed Martha and Alexis and would be happy to see them. She heard the car and quickly went to greet them while Rick laughed at her childlike, free and open demeanour.

The car had barely stopped when the passenger door flew open and Alexis raced from the vehicle. She reached Kate's side in no time, and threw her arms around the detective squeezing her tight.

"Hey, Alexis, I'm OK, relax." Kate murmured into her ear as Alexis' shoulders shook.

"I was so scared, I can't lose you, I can't..."

Kate pulled away and held Alexis face in her hands, "Look at me. I'm doing better and your dad has taken wonderful care of me." She reached back to bring Rick into their discussion. Alexis hugged her dad, but did not let go of Kate.

Soon, Martha joined the reunion. She kissed Rick on the cheek and turned her attention to Kate, noticing she actually looked healthier than Martha had expected, though her eyes were tired.

"Kate, my dear, looks like you may have finally put on some weight. How are you?"

"I'm... Kate hesitated, bit her lip and proceeded. Honesty, that was her new approach.

"I'm a little tired right now, just been busy getting things ready for you."

The three ladies joined arms and walked towards the door and Martha called behind her. "Richard, unload the car, darling. We brought all sorts of goodies."

Once Rick finished unloading the car, he noticed the three of them were already on the couch, filling each other in on the previous week's activities. They were all laughing as Rick entered the room, and Kate glanced at him and winked. She was relaxed, content, and alternated between holding Alexis' hand and then Martha's. This open show of affection towards his family thrilled him.

Kate pulled her hands through her hair and a slight frown passed over her face. It went unnoticed by the ladies, but it did not pass by Rick. He went up behind Kate, knelt behind her and whispered in her ear. "Nap time and meds."

She sighed, she didn't want to miss anything, but Rick was right.

"Ladies, it's time for me to take some medication and rest. Why not unpack, while I get settled and you three can carry on while I nap."

Martha raised an eyebrow and glanced at Rick, wondering when Kate had become so agreeable to accepting treatment. Noticing the exchange, Kate laughed as she spoke.

"See I can be reasonable, and I'm not going to get knocked down by this again so soon. It's not fair to put you all through that again."

Rick interjected. "Kate has gone nonstop all day, if she rests now, she'll be awake for dinner and you know how much she loves lobster." He reached over and kissed her cheek. As she started to get up, Rick appeared in front of her, meds in hand. After taking the pills, she crawled into the nest, totally aware that she really needed to be careful. Her eyes closed and she fell to sleep.

When she opened her eyes, she wasn't sure how long she had been asleep, but was pleased to find they were sitting on the couch surrounding her, laughing.

"Hey Kate, welcome back. We started the lobster water and everything else is ready. You already had most of it organized."

"Rick, while we're waiting don't you have something to show them?"

"What?" Martha and Alexis were both intrigued.

Kate's face lit up, "You'll see."

Rick smiled at his love, full of promise. They already loved the possibilities of the remodel, and hoped Martha and Alexis would agree. Rick had them all gather around the table and he started laying out the plans. He glanced over at Kate, rolled his eyes in their direction and encouraged Kate to join in. Together they presented the entire plan, and Alexis was ecstatic, as was Martha. Though she was more interested in what this meant for Kate and Rick and never being shy, she spoke up.

"Does this mean there is going to be a wedding?"

"No" was their simultaneous response and then they laughed, "maybe someday, not soon."

After they discussed the plans for the remodel and all were in agreement, Rick picked up the phone and called his architect and builder. He told them to proceed and wanted everything completed by a specific date.

While the meal was in final preparation, Alexis looked at the table Kate had set.

"Wow, the Deruta is being used, I'm impressed." Giving Kate a squeeze, "I think you're responsible for this, huh?"

Kate responded by kissing Alexis' cheek. "Thanks, you have beautiful pieces in the cupboard and they need to be used."

Dinner was superb. The side dishes and salads Kate had made complimented the lobster perfectly, and Rick had selected a beautiful German Riesling which made the lobster taste that much sweeter. Their conversation was easy with plenty of laughter and Martha described how some of her students had murdered the work of Shakespeare. Kate was relaxed as she chuckled at Martha, dropping her head and looked into Rick's eyes. A smug smile appeared on her lips as she ran her toes up his leg. He gave her a slight glare; she knew this drove him crazy. The more uncomfortable he became, the higher her toes moved. He moved his leg, grabbed her hand and under his breath told her to stop it. This playful exchange was not lost on Alexis and Martha; they glanced at each other and grinned.

When it was time for dessert, Kate rose and returned with a homemade grand Marnier cheesecake. As each person tasted the offering, Martha was the first to speak.

"Richard, if you don't marry this divine woman, I want custody."

Rick and Kate both howled with laughter. Kate reached over and took Martha's hand. "If he kicks me out, I'm yours."

"Her culinary skills are a bonus, but not a deal maker. She has other assets which are equally alluring." as he rubbed her chin.

The night finished in the living room. Kate had snuggled into the nest and opened her arms for Alexis to join her. The two had their faces close together, whispering, looking in Rick's direction and smiling.

"Hey, you two are making fun of me aren't you?" Rick said pouting.

"Dad, you're such a baby."

"Yeah Castle, what a whiner." The three women openly laughed which made Castle pout even more.

It was late when they ended the evening. Kate had fallen asleep hours earlier, but she had refused to go to bed, choosing instead to stay in her spot with Alexis by her side.

Alexis stood and leaned over to kiss Kate on the cheek, "Night." she murmured. As she stood back, Kate gripped her hand "Goodnight, Alexis, love you," she muttered, unable to open her eyes.

"Love you too, night Dad."

Once they had left the room, Rick bent over and picked Kate up. "Hey, I can walk."

"I know, but I like carrying you."

"OK," and she nestled into him. "Rick, I love being around your family. I'm so comfortable with them."

"I'm thrilled. You're so good with them. You're better with mother than I am and Alexis adores you." He chuckled as he thought of the three of them together.

After getting ready for bed, Kate turned on her side, Rick came in behind her, wrapping his body around hers.

"Kate, you were so honest with them about being sick, you've come a long way."

"I'm trying, but it's going to take a while. I'm breaking years of bad habits here, you will need to be patient with me."

"Oh, I will. I love you, Katherine Beckett."

"Right back at you, Richard Castle."

Would love to hear your comments, hope you enjoy their journey

Melody