Epilogue

"Not you, Detective Beckett," the ER doctor says very unhappily. "Not you again. What have you done this time?" There's a definite flavour of and why is it always me who's the attending when you do?

"I slipped," Beckett says, defensive-aggressively.

"Mmmm," says the doctor, disbelievingly. "Was that due to a bomb? Or did a suspect throw himself on top of you?"

"She slipped on the wet bathroom floor," Castle chirrups reassuringly, as if he thinks the doctor will like that answer any better. "Not a crime scene or criminal in sight."

"There will be when I shoot you," Beckett hisses. Castle hides behind the doctor.

"I don't need to tell either of you the routine," he says wearily, moving to the side to give Beckett a clear shot, which Castle feels is very unfair. "Mr Castle, you keep her necklace. Detective Beckett, you come through to X-ray. I'm sure the techs will be pleased to see you again and it will be good for the students to learn how to deal with recalcitrant patients." Beckett growls.

"And don't do anything strenuous for three weeks."

"Six."

"Six? Why six? You said three last time."

"Because in six weeks I will be moving to Seattle and I will never have to treat you again. I'm not taking any risks with your ribs – or that I have to see you again – in those six weeks."

"This is all your fault," Beckett grates at Castle. Castle looks entirely impenitent.

"I told you that you needed to buy a bathmat. If you'd listened to me…"

"If you say I told you so I will shoot you right now."

Castle subsides, retaining a know-it-all smirk. But just before Beckett is removed to X-ray, he gently takes her watch off. "I'll keep it for you. No matter how long you take, Beckett, I'll keep it safe." He pauses, smiles softly, and kisses her gently.

"We've got all the time in the world."

Fin.

Really, definitely the end this time. Thank you all for your support through this fluffy story. It has and is very much appreciated.