Castle wouldn't stand it any longer. Even with now deeply their argument had cut, the sight of her crying was too much. He went up to her and pulled her into his arms, reaching up to wipe her tears away.

"You managed just fine before I came into your life," he reminded her quietly. "But even without me, you wouldn't be alone. Never. You still have everyone's support, and you'd still kick their asses. Because you're you. And nothing- nothing- would ever be able to keep us apart."