Esposito’s thoughts.
It’s one of Castle’s book parties, we’re all dressed respectably (the women especially), and all anyone can whisper about is what has changed between Beckett and Castle. After Beckett had recovered from her gunshot wound, she and Castle had reconciled their friendship somewhat, but now they were closer, like something had happened that the outside world had missed. Both Ryan and I had asked Castle, and Lanie had bugged Beckett, but they’re telling the same rehearsed story; “Nothing is going on, guys.”
I’m not usually one for large crowds but there was free food, a tab, and Lanie, so I gave up (without much of an argument) and here I am. Looking around the room whilst Ryan talks with some writers that he assumes I know, I spot Castle hiding in an alcove type-thing in the wall, his eyes on Beckett. He must have sensed my eyes on him, because within seconds his gaze fell on me and he brought his finger up to his lips in an attempt to keep me quiet. I shrug; it’s not my place, man.
Beckett’s attention is on Lanie, who is telling some obviously hilarious story that has them both doubling over. I watch as after a few moments, they straighten up and try to compose themselves. My eyes flick back to Castle, and he is about to make his move – whatever that is going to be. Considering it is his party, he has a remarkable lack of people around him.
Ryan catches my attention my saying my name, and I turn back to him. As he starts to speak, I hear a small shriek. My partner and I both turn around to see Castle, who had just startled Beckett, whispering in the detective’s ear. If Lanie didn’t get info on what was going on, I’m going to have to try different measures.
The rest of the night was spent with me eating, drinking, and occasionally holding a conversation with someone I had never heard of whilst watching Lanie’s interactions. The night wasn’t a total waste.
