"It's not a competition," Kate assured her. "You have every right to be mad, and angry, and scared. But you have me and your father and I promise I'll do everything I can to keep you safe."

And Kate meant it. Mermaid aside - at least her life wasn't in any immediate danger. But if she ever was, Kate would protect her as if the girl was her own flesh and blood. She would rather die than have to watch what Castle went through with Paris again, or watch him mourn his only child. Alexis deserved better than the life Kate had been given, and Kate didn't want to see her lose that youthful exuberance or allow her fear to control her.