Lois and Castle
By Tank


Late 2010


New York City homicide detective Kate Beckett leaned back in her chair and studied her 'murder board'. The large, white, porcelain marker board displayed several photographs with colored marker lines connecting them in a crisscross pattern that looked like a road map from hell. Each photograph was labeled with notes, questions, and answers pertaining to each individual and their relationships to each other.

The FBI had their fancy computers with all the touch screens and virtual displays, but there was something about doing it old school that seemed so much more satisfying to her.

Her latest case had been one of the most challenging yet. There had been so many twists and turns, blind leads, red-herrings, and just plain old confusion that it was just short of a miracle that she and her team had been able to solve the murder and prevent a second.

She shook her head slowly as her gaze drifted across the colorful scribbles on the nicked and scratched whiteboard. Against all odds they'd busted the case and once again, Castle's contributions and assistance had proved essential to their being able to catch the killer and close the case.

Her Captain had just finished giving her a pat on the back for a job well done and was now talking to Castle. If she knew Captain Montgomery and Castle, it probably had nothing to do with the case and most likely about tickets to the Knicks game tomorrow night.

One would think that the life of a homicide detective, though never dull or mundane, would generally be more stable and routine. Every murder was different, but each was approached in the same way. There were procedures to follow and legwork that needed to be done that were essentially the same for every case.

Yet, when Castle had entered her world, even the routine seemed to take on a life of its own and she was consistently finding herself needing to re-evaluate her expectations. In her line of work results were what counted and she grudgingly had to admit that he helped her get results.

Richard Castle was a best selling crime novelist who'd first crossed her path almost two years ago when she had brought him in for questioning about a couple of murders that had mimicked murders from his books. He was friends with the mayor, as well as her captain, so he had little trouble getting permission to accompany her and her team on that case. He then convinced the powers that be that he should be allowed to ‘shadow’ her for a time. It was all in the name of research for his next book. The higher ups thought it would be good public relations. She thought it would be a pain in the neck.

Of course, that didn't really prepare her for what came next. As it turned out, he was looking to create a new character for his next book; a character that unfortunately was supposedly based on her.

The heroine of his novel was a sexed-up, super model with a badge who went by the name of Nicki Heat. It had caused her no little amount of grief and embarrassment when the first book "Heat Wave" hit the stands and became an immediate best seller. Kate sighed as she remembered those awkward days after the book came out. At least he got most of the police work part of it right.

The public reaction was such that those powers that be were more than receptive to the idea of a second book. Castle was back in the fold, and even though "Naked Heat" had been released a few months ago, it didn't seem that he would be leaving her team anytime soon. Apparently Nicki Heat was here to stay, and so was Richard Castle.

She glanced up when she heard the laughter coming from her captain's office. They were probably swapping dirty jokes now.

Her relationship with Castle was... complicated. Early on his constant hovering and unsolicited input had been annoying, but over time he sort of 'grew' on her. There was no doubt that he was a good looking guy, and could be very charming when he wanted to be.
He seemed to know everybody who was anybody in the city of New York, and on more than one occasion his contacts had been very helpful on cases.

They'd had their ups and downs in the past. Every time it seemed like one of them was ready to make a move toward something a little more daring in their relationship the other would do something to put distance between them again. It was an age old problem and truthfully she didn't have any idea where her and Castle would end up, but she did know that he would always have her back, and she would always have his. They were friends.

She watched as Castle shook her captain's hand and left his office. He approached her desk, a big smile on his face. "Well, I hear you've got some vacation time coming up." He sat on the corner of her desk.

Kate frowned. "It wasn't my idea. Captain is forcing me to take some time off. It seems that HR pointed out that I've got eight weeks of vacation time built up and if I don't take some time off the union is going to file a grievance."

"Can they do that if it's your choice?"

Kate shook her head. "It's a union, what do you think?"

Castle laughed. "I see what you mean. So, any big plans?"

Beckett emitted a very unladylike snort. "Oh yeah, big plans. First I'm going to take a luxurious bath, then I'm going to paint my toes. After all that I think I'll fall asleep on my couch reading a book."

Castle perked up. "Oh, going to check out "Naked Heat"?"

"I was thinking more along the lines of actual literature."

Castle placed his hand over his heart. "You wound me." Kate laughed. "Tell you what," he continued. "It sounds like you don't really have any definite plans. Let me offer you an alternative."

Kate eyed the cocky novelist warily. "What, prey tell, has that dirty little mind of yours concocted?"

"Have you ever been to Metropolis?"

"The Big Apricot?"

Castle smiled at that city's sobriquet. "One in the same. My agent has me scheduled to do some book signings and press junkets there this weekend. Why don't you come with me? We could do some sight seeing." Castle cocked his brow. "Who knows, we might even get to meet Superman."

Beckett shook her head in amused denial. "I know you seem to know everyone who is anyone in New York, but I hope you aren't trying to tell me that you actually know Superman."

Castle shrugged. "Well, no I don't know Superman, but I do know someone who does know Superman. She knows him quite well, in fact."

Beckett couldn't hold back her laughter. "Of course she does. What is she, his secret girlfriend? Or perhaps they're just buddies who hang out and watch old videos at her place." Beckett's tone turned more accusatory. "And why is it that your 'friend' in Metropolis just happens to be a woman? Not another ex-wife?"

It was Castle's turn to laugh. "Hardly; perhaps you've even heard of her. She and her husband are pretty well known." He paused, knowing that it bugged her when he played at the dramatic.

"Enough with the games just tell me who this mystery woman is."

Castle smiled. "None other than... Lois Lane."

Beckett rolled her eyes and shook her head. "Now I know you're either lying or bragging. No way do you know Lois Lane."

"So you have heard of her?"

"Seriously? There are cases she was involved in that are now used at the academy to teach undercover and infiltration techniques." A smile found its way onto Beckett's face. "I've always wanted to meet her. She's kind of a hero of mine."

Castle frowned. "A hero?"

"A strong independent thinking woman who has excelled in a profession that was normally considered a man's world. What's not to admire."

Castle grinned at her. "Sounds like someone else I know."

Beckett snorted. "As tough as it still is now, it was much tougher back when she started." Kate spun her chair to face Castle. "So tell me, how would a crime novelist from New York meet Metropolis' top investigative journalist?"

"What, you don't think that my natural charm and good looks are enough to interest a woman like Lois Lane?"

Beckett patted Castle's arm with her hand. "You're talking about a woman who hangs out with Superman... and I've seen pictures of her husband."

Castle raised his brow. "Be that as it may, I met the ubiquitous Ms. Lane at a writer's conference where she was a guest speaker. She told the crowd of mystery writers of several of her adventures as a reporter for the Daily Planet."

Kate laughed. "I'll bet what that woman has gone through in her career could really inspire a book series by one of your cohorts."

Castle gave her a thoughtful look. "I thought about it... briefly, but I rejected the idea. Truthfully, her life would be too unbelievable for mainstream crime and mystery fiction. But, I found her to be a charming and interesting woman."

Beckett grinned. "And it didn't hurt that she was also attractive?"

Castle winked. "That too. Anyway, she said that if I was ever in Metropolis I should look her up." Castle stood up. "So, what do you say? You want to see Metropolis?"

Beckett pursed her lips as she got up from her chair. "What the heck. It's not like I have anything better to do."

"Great, I'll call you with the travel details in the morning." Castle turned and began to walk toward the lobby.

"Oh, and Castle." He stopped and turned. "I want my own room."

His smile was just a bit coy. "Of course."

************************

Lois Lane eased her way into the Barnes and Noble. It was the largest bookstore in Metropolis and it needed all that square footage today. The crowd was large and animated as they stood in the long winding line, waiting patiently for a chance to garner an autograph and a few moments with one of their favorite authors.

Lois knew that Rick Castle was a popular writer, had been for several years, but she hadn't been prepared for the size of the crowd. With a small sigh she put her copy of "Naked Heat" back into her bag. She had hoped to get her book signed here at the 'official' signing just like any of his fans, but she knew that she'd be seeing him later and could get the autograph then.

She quickly suppressed her disappointment and shifted to the 'other' reason why she wanted to come to the signing. Ever since Rick had mentioned that he was bringing Detective Beckett along on the trip Lois had been excited at the prospect of meeting the NYPD homicide detective.

Lois was under no delusion that the hyperbolized pin-up policewoman that served as the lead in Castle's latest two novels bore any resemblance to a real life detective. She was curious to meet the woman whom Castle publicly credited as being his inspiration for the character Nicki Heat.

She'd initially expected to see Beckett sitting at the table next to Rick; maybe even adding her own autograph to a book jacket. But she wasn't there. Lois let her gaze sweep the store. She hoped that Beckett had come and hadn't opted to stay back at the hotel, or take in some sights on her own while Castle did his diligence for his publisher.

A slow smile spread onto Lois' lips as she caught sight of a striking young woman standing toward the back of the store conversing with a man who had to be the manager. If this woman was the one, then Castle hadn't been exaggerating when it came to his physical description of his lead character.

The woman was very attractive. She was taller than Lois and her simple outfit of a plain red blouse and tan slacks wasn't able to hide the fact that she had a great figure and a toned body. Of course, that figured, considered the kind of work the woman did.

Her hair was worn long and loose; over the shoulders down to her shoulder blades, and she had an air of competence that radiated from her in waves. Lois' smile grew wider. That woman had to be Kate Beckett.

Lois strode purposely over to where the woman and the man were conversing. As her approached was noticed the two turned toward her. She extended her hand.

"Hi, you must be Detective Kate Beckett. I've heard so much about you. I'm Lo..."

Recognition flashed onto Beckett's face. "Lois Lane!" Kate grabbed her hand and shook it vigorously. "Castle said he knew you, but I just chalked it up to his typical name dropping tactics. I'm such a big fan of yours."

A smile of confusion found its way onto Lois face. "You've heard of me?"

Beckett laughed. "Seriously, what independent woman trying to make her way in a male dominated profession hasn't heard of the crusading reporter Lois Lane? You are something of an idol to all of us."

Lois smiled as she shook her head. "I'm not sure that's a compliment. It makes me sound like some old maid icon."

Beckett cocked her head and gave Lois a once over. "One look at you and I doubt anyone would consider you an old maid, but you are an icon to working women everywhere."

"Well thanks for that." Lois glanced back over her shoulder. "It looks like Rick is going to be busy for a while." She grabbed Beckett by the hand. “There’s a great coffee shop just around the corner. It’s quiet, and they have the best chocolate brownies this side of Switzerland.” Lois grinned. “I think we need to talk.”

Kate returned the smile and indicated that Lois should lead the way.

It only took them a few minutes to get to the coffee shop and be comfortably seated at a booth near the back of the place. Both ordered coffee and a brownie and settled in. It was Beckett who broke the silence first.

“So, Ms. Lane, do you mind if I ask you some questions?”

Lois smiled at the eager young woman. Beckett couldn’t have been much more than thirty, yet she was one of New York’s finest detectives. “What is this, an interrogation?”

Beckett blushed. “No, Ms. Lane, I… I just would like to know what it’s like to be someone like you. Someone who has done so many amazing things in her life.”

Lois laughed softly and patted Beckett’s hand. “First off, my name is Lois, and I wish you would use it because I plan to call you Kate. Also, it’s my understanding that you are someone who has done quite a few amazing things herself.”

Kate blushed again. “Fair enough, but please don’t confuse Nicki Heat with me. Castle’s imagination is mostly responsible for that character.” She lowered her head and leaned closer to Lois. Her voice was pitched low and soft. “So… is it true that you named Superman?”

Lois smiled as the young detective fired questions at her with a fan girl’s enthusiasm. It became clear that Beckett had followed the media coverage of many of her more high profile investigations. It was also obvious that Beckett was used to working with a partner because she seemed especially interested in how Lois and Clark worked with each other and how their partnership progressed over the years.

Lois chuckled as she put her hand on the young woman’s arm to stop her barrage of questions. “Kate, take a breath. Save some of these for later; till after I’ve taken you and Rick back to our place for dinner.” Lois sighed dreamily. “You haven’t really eaten until you had some of Clark’s cooking.”

Beckett grinned. “So is your husband the cook in the house, or does he just cook for special occasions?”

Lois waved her hand about in a gesture of dismissal. “My skills in the kitchen are severely lacking. I only know how to make three things and two of them require a lot of chocolate.”

Beckett laughed. “Well, I’m not a great cook, but I know my way around the kitchen. I just don’t have the time, so I order in, or eat out, frequently. Castle always gives me grief about my empty refrigerator and the lack of any food in my pantry.”

Lois nodded. “So, how long have you and Rick been together?”

Lois almost laughed at the panicked look on Beckett’s face.

&&&&&&&&&&

Kate swallowed as she hesitated answering Lois’ question. In the short time they’d been talking she was really starting to like the beautiful reporter. Even in her early forties Lois Lane was stunning. Her short dark hair framed a face that still hadn’t yet seen the onset of wrinkles that came with aging. She could easily pass for a contemporary of Kate’s.

Her hesitation was based on the question. What exactly did she mean by ‘together’? What had Castle told her? Kate knew that he exchanged friendly emails with Lois several times a month, and supposed that since he’d been partnering up with her, he’d probably increased the frequency just to brag about his own investigative exploits.

“What do you mean, together?” She tried to keep her voice emotionless. “Castle has shadowed me for about two years now and I consider him a good friend… and my partner; but there is nothing romantic going on.”

Lois’ brow rose. “Really? That’s not quite the way Rick explained it.”

Beckett just shook her head, her hair falling in front of her face. She quickly tucked an errant strand behind her ear. “Sometimes Castle confuses his books with reality. I am fond of him and we do work well together, but I’m with someone. His name is Josh, and he’s a cardiac surgeon. Our schedules don’t let us have a lot of time together, but I really like him.” Kate rolled her eyes and frowned. “I just wish Castle would stop calling him ‘Doctor Motorcycle Boy’.”

Lois laughed softly. “Funny, I don’t remember Rick mentioning him in any of his emails.”

“Why am I not surprised?”

“Am I interrupting anything?”

Kate turned a watched as a gorgeous hunk of manhood approached their table. Except for a pair of stylish glasses, he was the poster boy for ‘tall, dark, and handsome; and the glasses didn’t get in the way in the least. Kate knew immediately who it was and suddenly she was very jealous of Lois.

A big smile spread across Lois’ face as jumped up to greet the man. “Oh, Clark, I didn’t expect you yet.” She literally threw herself into his arms and soundly kissed him. Apparently Lois had no problems with public displays of affection. With a husband like Clark Kent, she didn’t blame her.

Lois sat back down and Clark slid into the chair next to her. “I went over to the bookstore but the manager said the two of you had left. He’d overheard you mentioning this place so I came here.”

“I’m glad you did.” Lois gave him another quick kiss. “Clark, this is Detective Kate Beckett.”

Clark smiled and reached out his hand to her. His smile was amazing and she was so lost in it that she almost forgot to shake his hand. “So this is the extraordinary KB; the inspiration for Nicki Heat.”

Kate rolled her eyes again. “Castle might claim I’m the inspiration but the only resemblance I bear to Nicki Heat is gender.”

Lois grinned. “We’ll see.”

Kate was confused by her comment but before she could ask Lois what she meant they were interrupted by a shout from across the room. Kate saw that Castle had entered the little coffee shop.

Clark waved him over. “I told Rick where I was going and told him to join us when he finished up.”

Lois jumped up and ran over to give Castle a hug. Kate had to admit that when beautiful woman threw themselves into Castle’s arms she often felt a slight twinge of jealousy, but knowing who Lois worked with every day, and went home to every night. There was none of those feelings here.

She was a bit surprised by how familiar Lois was with Castle though; considering they’d only met in person a few times and carried on an occasional email friendship. Maybe Lois was just one of those types of people who made friends easily. Kate couldn’t help thinking that it might be nice to get to know Clark a bit better.

Lois grabbed Castle’s arm and waved for Clark to follow as she dragged him out the door. “Let’s get home… I’m starved.”

Clark laughed and offered his hand to Beckett. She took it and marveled at the strength of the man as she helped her to her feet. “We better hurry. The one thing you don’t want to do is keep Lois waiting.”

Kate returned his smile. “Well, we wouldn’t want to do that would we?”

&&&&&&&&&&&&&

Lois was having a great time. The dinner had gone splendidly and the two couples had been entertaining each other by trading ‘war stories’. Lois was amazed at how much Detective Beckett had gone through in such a short time and was saddened by the obvious pain the woman carried due to her mother’s horrific murder. It was clear that the young woman had built walls to protect herself; a practice that Lois was only too familiar with. She just hoped that with Beckett it wouldn’t take as long for someone to tear those walls down as it had been for Lois. She liked Kate and saw her as someone who deserved to be happy.

Lois glanced over at Rick. He was currently holding court; expounding on one of their more recent cases. Judging by Kate’s frequent eye rolling she guessed that he was exaggerating things… just a bit.

She knew, based on their correspondences over that past several months that Rick was quite taken with Kate Beckett. It was unfortunate that the young detective didn’t seem to feel quite the same. Though, if Lois was any judge, it was obvious that Beckett was quite fond of Castle. After all, she called him her friend… and partner. Lois was only too aware of where those feelings could lead. She only hoped they didn’t wait too long to admit it to each other. You always regret the time lost.

&&&&&&&&&&&&&

It was fairly late when Castle and Beckett got back to their hotel. Against her stated wishes he hadn’t gotten each of them a separate room. Instead he had booked the penthouse suite. She had been angry, at first, when she saw that he’d booked only the one suite, but relented when she saw exactly how spacious the place was. I had a huge living room which opened out to a balcony which offered a spectacular view of Metropolis at night. She had to admit that she enjoyed sitting on the lush sofa, drinking expensive wine, and having pleasant conversation with Castle. But what really assuaged her initial annoyance was the inclusion of two bedrooms… with doors that locked from the inside.

Beckett took a sip of her wine and shook her head in wonder. “I still can’t get over that you know someone like Lois Lane.”

He gave her a faux frown. “I think I’ve been insulted.”

Kate grinned. “You have.”

He smirked. “My dear Detective Beckett, you know that I have a very public part to my life and as such have met and know a lot of people; some even more famous than Lois Lane.”

“I’m not talking about the plastic people who have all the depth of character as a page from one of your books. People whose only concern is their next close up, or write up in one of those scandal rags.” Kate waved her hand through the air. “Lois Lane is real. You don’t normally associate with real.”

Castle chuckled softly. “Now I know I’ve been insulted. I’ll have you know that I have many friends whom you’d consider ‘real’.” He used his fingers to make quote signs.

Kate laughed. “Name one.”

He grinned. “NYPD Detective Kate Beckett. I have it on very good authority that they don’t get much more real than her, and I feel confident in saying that she’s a good friend of mine.”

Her smile was warm and genuine. “Yeah, I guess you could say that, but don’t spread it around, I wouldn’t want to undermine my reputation.”

“Your secret is safe with me.”

He leaned back into the soft cushions of the sofa. “They make a cute couple. It’s almost like they were meant to be.” He grinned. “She loves him very much.”

Kate smiled in return. “He loves her even more, and I agree, I think those two were fated to be together.”

Rick gave Beckett one of his patented smirks. “You know they started out as friends and partners just like we are.” He waggled his brow. “Maybe there’s hope for us yet?”

Kate rolled her eyes and shook her head. She eased her way up from the sofa and stretched; a yawn cracked her jaw. “Well this ‘friend’ is tired and is going to go to bed.” She moved toward the bedroom she had selected earlier.

He raised his glass to her. “Goodnight Kate.”

She stopped at the door and turned back toward him. “Night Castle.”