Castle: Lip-Locked and Under Cover

Okay, so you may have read an insider blog, like Castle-Fans, before watching the latest episode of "Castle," or seen the teaser trailer multiple times, so you should have expected a wham-bam toe-curling episode. That's exactly what "Castle" fans got with the episode "Knockdown."

Every good show has an underlying story, a driving factor. Last night's episode, "Knockdown," exposed more about Beckett's character. She is driven be the need to solve her mother's cold case murder. At the episode's onset Kate is contacted by a retired and dying NYPD detective who says that he has information regarding her mother's death; however, before he can divulge the information he is murdered.

The scene is a small restaurant. Beckett and Castle are sitting in front of the dinner's window waiting anxiously to hear the events surrounding her mother's death. Kate is sure to feel some tremendous anxiety knowing that her mother's killer is about to be exposed. Unfortunately, a bullet pierces the glass and plunges into the retired detective, killing him instantly. Beckett is covered with blood due to her proximity to the victim, and Castle for one horrible second believes Kate has been shot.

This near death experience truly affects Castle. It becomes even more evident that Castle is in love with Beckett, as his mom, Martha, tries to dissuade him from shadowing the NYPD. She reminds him that he has written at least 22 books before Kate Beckett came into his life, and that he doesn't have to follow her around in order to be a good writer. Castle confesses, that he needs to shadow Beckett, that his need is more than research.

One of the best scenes of the show has been shown repeatedly in the network teaser trailer. It's Castle and Beckett embracing; although, it isn't what appeared to be in previews. Castle persuades Kate to pretend they are lovers in order to get close to a suspect who is holding Detectives Ryan and Esposito hostage.

While the two close in on the suspect, they laugh and hold onto each other, simulating embraces. The suspect doesn't fall for their act until Castle grabs Kate and really kisses her. Kate is somewhat surprised, but her body language says she really, really wants that kiss as she returns his passionate lip-lock. It was a true toe-curling moment for fans. Unfortunately, the circumstances forced their behavior. Still, that kiss left no doubt that there has to be some steamy confession of mutual attraction in an upcoming episode.

With respect to the case, Kate is a little closer to finding out her mother's killer. Together Beckett and Castle exposed a dirty cop ring that ran the department more like the mob, than a place sworn to protect the public. By the closing credits fans are left with two things. The orders for Beckett's mom's death came from a high ranking official, and memories of that kiss. If you missed an episode of "Castle" they are available online at ABC's homepage.