Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

“And bring me some more popcorn while you’re in there!” Dean yells hoping to catch Sam before he walks back into the living room. 

“Fine, but next time I pause you can get it yourself, jerk,” Sam grumbles as Dean hears him slam the microwave shut. The muffled hum of the machine fills the room and Dean’s mouth waters slightly as the scent of artificial butter reaches his nostrils. 

Sam walks back into the room after the microwave dings, carrying the freshly popped bag and two beers, “Thanks, bitch.” Dean mumbles as he reaches into the bag, popping a few buttery piping hot pieces in his mouth before immediately spitting them out. “Ah, shit!”

Sam barks a laugh at his grimace and pained shout from burning his tongue on the tasty treat. He plops down settling back into his seat on the other side of the couch, “Ready?” 

“I still don’t see the point in watching this when they’re just gonna make us watch it again when we get there, dude,” Dean whines, repeating his earlier complaint but Sam just gives the same tired reply. 

“I’d like to know ahead of time if they caught me saying or doing something stupid thank you very much. Or would you rather be blindsided and embarrassed on live tv?” Sam asks, leveling an exasperated glare at Dean. 

“First off, it isn’t live,” Dean counts off on his fingers, “and B since when do I give a flying fuck what anyone thinks of me?” Dean asks with a cocky grin and raised brow. "And 3 we wouldn't have anything to watch or prepare for if you hadn't roped us into this mess in the first place." He points out jokingly, they both know he'd do anything for Sam with few questions asked. Even traipsing off to air out his personal life on reality tv over a year ago. 

Sam mumbles a testy whatever, bitchface firmly in place, rolling his eyes as he presses play and effectively shutting Dean up. He settles into his side of the couch with his, now much cooler, popcorn and beer as a familiar voice fills the room. 

“I’m Missouri Moseley and you're watching a special LGBTQIA+ Edition of Love is Blind! 

Chapter Text

Part One

One Year Ago 

Week One

Day One

Dean’s fully aware he technically agreed to this without coercion but in this moment he’d like to kick past Dean’s ass. He could be anywhere else right now but instead he took that stupid dare of Sammy’s and now here they are, he and Sam, standing in a room with 28 other participants for a ‘social experiment’ or whatever the Netflix people called it. Three weeks, thirty LGBT+ singles, and one question. Is love really blind? He has no clue how they plan to do that, it’s all been very cloak and dagger but Dean thinks it sounds like a crock of shit either way. Sammy seems to think it’s what they both need after Dean’s nasty break up with Cassie and his own recent heartbreak with Brady. Dean suppresses a shudder at the reminder of both failed relationships. So here they are, after two months of interviews and screenings, blindfolded in a room waiting for the host, Missouri, to finish introducing the show. 

Don’t even get him started on having his life followed on camera, possibly for the next three weeks. Dean’s only solace is the knowledge he can go home if he doesn’t make it past phase 1 of the experiment. Fingers crossed. Dean tunes back into Missouri’s voice once he realizes he’s about to miss the rules of the experiment. This is something they’ve been vague about, he’s intrigued on how everything’s supposed to go and why they had to be blindfolded in the first place. Dean had never seen the first season of the show, Netflix banned them from watching it  choosing only those who hadn’t streamed it yet. 

“For the next three weeks, we will uncover the answer to one question. Is love truly blind? I’m sure you’re wondering how exactly we plan to do that. We’ve taken some crazy measures to keep you in the dark so I won’t leave you in suspense any longer,” Missouri says with a light chuckle, echoed by many across the room. 

Dean’s tempted to lift his blindfold and get a peek at the others but he knows he was advised repeatedly not to. Instead, he locks his hands together behind his back, rocking slightly on his feet to distract himself from the urge. 

“You’re all wearing an accessory that was provided to you upon your arrival to set today, a blindfold. I know many of you would love to peek but I need you to hold off for just a little bit longer.” 

Dean’s thrown off at how her statement matches his current thoughts then chides himself, it’s not like she was talking directly to him. 

Missouri continues at the murmured assent from the crowd, “In this experiment, you’ll all go through what could be summarized as a series of speed dates over the next week. During this time you’ll get to know the other participants and get a sense of who you click with, and definitely who you don’t,” Missouri emphasizes with a giggle. “Once you narrow it down you’ll go on dates only with those you see a possible future with leading into next week, all without seeing each others physical appearance.” Missouri stops speaking, allowing her words to sink in. 

The room erupts in questions and loud whispers at this unexpected twist. How in the hell are they supposed to choose a partner without seeing each other? Dean knows he’s nothing to sneeze at with his sandy blonde hair, bright smile, freckle kissed skin, and brilliant green eyes. His most complimented features are now completely fucking useless at least for the first week of the experiment. Now, Dean’s thoroughly convinced he won’t be making it very far past day one. If he’s expected to impress someone with just his words he’s screwed, everyone knows Sammy’s the smart one. Sammy can spend hours talking about his new favorite book or the art galleries he visits and, unsuccessfully, tries to drag Dean along with him. Dean could probably talk til he’s blue in the face about the ins and outs of car restoration or running a business but that’s only going to interest a very limited audience.

“I know, I know. Sounds weird, right? And I’m sure many of you even think it sounds impossible, only time will tell. You’ll use these pods behind me to get to know one another over the next two weeks. There’s an interactive panel in each pod that will keep you from seeing your date but you will be able to hear each other just fine. Use this time wisely,” Missouri warns sternly.

“Once the week is up most of you will have chosen which participants you feel a spark with. We may even have a proposal or two by the end of the first week,” Missouri predicts before delivering a final warning, “Remember, if you fail to match by the end of Week two you will be sent home. We should have more than a few weddings to celebrate in a few weeks. I’ll let you all take a look at the pods and then we’ll meet back here in an hour for your first dates.” 

Once she’s done speaking they’re all led one by one to a pod and allowed a moment to lift the blindfold and take a look at what Missouri described. Inside the pod, the walls are covered in an iridescent darker red wallpaper with a repeating cube pattern. There’s a backlit panel embedded in the middle of the back wall with a blue shimmery screen in the center. Dean guesses that’s connected to the pod on the other side and how they’ll speak to each other. He’s more than a little happy to see the room is also well stocked with snacks including a mini bar alongside the cozy looking light blue sofa and ottoman. The sofa is complete with a plush throw blanket and a few throw pillows flawlessly lending themselves to the relaxed vibe of the room. Dean thinks it won’t be much of a hardship to sit there every day getting to know a few other, potentially, attractive singles. That whole not seeing each other thing is still throwing him for a loop but he’s gonna roll with it. 

Dean’s handler quickly signals to pull the blindfold back up and he follows him to his room promising to come get him in an hour for the first round of speed dates. He’s about to thank the guy for walking him over when he realizes he never even got his name, fortunately he’s gone before Dean can feel too bad about it. Maybe he can properly introduce himself when his handler comes to pick him up later, it was weird earlier and the blindfold threw him off but he and Sam were raised with much better manners than that. 

If there’s one thing Mary Winchester made sure of it’s that her boys always used their manners whether she was around or not, and it stuck. She was determined to prove anyone wrong who thought a single mother couldn’t raise two young boys into strong, caring, and capable men. Sure she had Bobby, their uncle, after John died but he knows it was important for her to show she could do it mostly on her own. Dean makes a mental note to go visit his mom, and hopefully get an entire pie to himself, once he leaves in a few days. With Sam otherwise occupied, because he knows he’ll give his entire all to this stupid experiment, Dean stands a good chance at that pie without Sam’s usual heckling for eating ‘unhealthy’ food. Pie is healthy, it’s usually full of fruit after all and Dean will gladly die on that hill. Suck it, Sammy.

The way Missouri explained it, they have communal housing on set for everyone in the experiment but they won’t know where to put everyone until after the second day of speed dating. It would kinda ruin the purpose of the experiment if they divided them up now and they end up bumping into their dates in the kitchen over coffee or something. And since this is an LGBT+ show they can’t just split everyone up by gender like most reality dating shows. He considers himself for a moment, the perfect example, being bi he has just as much chance of matching with another guy as he does a woman. Most likely a common theme with this cast. Dean chuckles softly to himself, he doesn’t feel the least bit sorry for whoever planned this logistical nightmare.  

The room is simple. Queen sized bed, a small desk, matching dresser, and a tiny but clean connected bathroom. Makes sense since Dean’s going to be stuck in here for the next hour, but he won’t need the room beyond tonight. Dean flips through the stack of paperwork on the desk and finds the pamphlet he was told to read that has more information about the speed dating process. He lays back on the bed after toeing his shoes off and tries to get comfortable. Once it registers the bed is memory foam, just like he has at home, he lets out a low blissful sigh and allows his body to fully relax. Dean gets as far as the section showing them how to verify each others gender/sexual identity tags on the outer door of each pod before his eyes grow impossibly heavy, his breathing slows in gentle increments, and he drifts off into an easy sleep. 

An hour later, Dean’s up and sitting on the sofa in one of the pods wishing he was back in his room. Fuck that, back home. Balthazar, the handler that he finally properly introduced himself to, knocked on his door right on time and led him blindfolded back to the big room with the pods they were in earlier. Everything started out innocently enough. Dean was allowed to remove the blindfold to select a pod and Balthazar advised he’d be standing outside waiting after the ten minute mark to move him to the next pod. 

Dean’s about five dates in and this guy is possibly the worst yet. And that’s saying something considering the mouth breather that was date one, Aaron, and the too high pitched creepy laughter provided by date two, Becky. He’s not too worried about that last one though, she’d already met Sam and when Dean mentioned that's his brother she spent the rest of their time together grilling him for information. Stage five clinger, Sammy can have her. If things keep going this way Dean might actually fulfill his own prophecy and leave on day one. Wouldn’t that be something. 

It actually would be funny, if this process wasn’t beginning to grate on him already. And for what, chasing something Dean’s not even sure he believes in anymore? At least not for him. Not after Lydia, Cole, and the latest Cassie. Maybe Sam’s right. Maybe he is a little too free with his heart, lacking the ability to see when those feelings aren’t exactly being returned. Not in the same way at least. But, if the alternative is locking his emotions down like some kind of soldier he’d rather stay an undercover sap. He just needs to be a little more discerning in who he gets serious with, that’s all. 

The longer he sits in this room, the more the sense this ain’t gonna solve that problem for him grows. Not even close.

“So what else do you do for fun?” Dean asks, trying again to initiate some sort of meaningful discussion, but it’s like pulling teeth getting more than a one word answer out of this dude.

“I hunt,” Gordon responds before going silent again. Awesome. On the plus side that was more than one word, progress. 

“Nice, are you one of those survivalist types? Grow your own food, hunt your own meat?” Dean asks, trying to connect in some way but already knowing it’s a lost cause. 

Ironically, he and Sam used to hunt all the time growing up with Bobby, only what they would use though he made sure to teach them right in that regard. Shoot a deer you better be using every part of that deer, boys. He can almost hear Bobby delivering the familiar line in his gruff but loving tone. Dean won’t be sharing a personal detail like that with a complete stranger like Gordon.

“Nah, I’m a big game hunter. You should see the trophies on the wall in my den,” Gordon chuckles darkly and it gives Dean all the heebs and the jeebs as his skin prickles with goosebumps. 

Dean pauses to ask himself an important question. 

Do you really wanna date a guy that enjoys killing innocent animals just so he can display their heads on his walls as some kind of grotesque trophies?

“Oooookay. Well…it was nice meeting you Gordon,” Dean says as he quickly removes himself from the pod. 

Hellllll no. Let someone else try their luck with Gordon the budding serial killer. 

“Done already? It’s barely been 5 minutes,” Bal points out as Dean shuts the door behind him. 

“You mean I barely survived five minutes,” Dean corrects, shaking his head with a grimace. 

The tall blonde smirks and Dean gets the distinct feeling he’s making a friend, he’ll take that silver lining. 

“Is that self-sabotage I smell Dean-o?” Bal asks, helping him put his blindfold back on before walking him over to the next available pod. 

Dean huffs out a laugh, “You’d get along with my brother Sammy, sounds like something he’d ask me for sure.” 

They both ignore the fact that Dean never actually answers the question. 

Dean lifts his blindfold enough to check the door, giving Bal the thumbs and opening the door to the room after verifying the symbol denoting the person in the connecting pod is a gay male.

“Dude what the fuck, why are they trying to make it seem like I was into Bal?!” Dean shouts, face burning with embarrassment. "He was just…nice…can’t a guy have friends?” He frowns at the paused image of himself and Bal in conversation. 

“Bet you’re glad we’re watching this now, huh?” Sam snarks, snatching the remote back and pressing play. 

Dean doesn’t dignify his statement with a response.  

Dean steps into the soothing silence of the pod, perching himself on the sixth identical blue sofa of the night. 

“Hi, I’m Dean,” he introduces himself, trying to keep the fatigue out of his tone. He doesn’t have high hopes for date six. 

“Hello, Dean. I’m Castiel,” a man answers in a deep rumble from the other side of the panel, immediately proving Dean wrong. Shit. 

Dean rubs his suddenly sweaty palms down his jean clad thighs ignoring the surge of want triggered by the sexiest voice he’s ever heard. Where was this dude five dates ago?

“Are you still there, Dean?” Castiel asks, a tinge of concern coloring his tone. 

“Uh,” Dean embarrassingly squeaks out, he clears his throat roughly before continuing, “Yup, still here.” He resists the urge to groan at the lack of a more intelligent response. 

“Good,” Castiel replies smoothly. Dean thinks he hears a small smile in his voice but that could be wishful thinking on his part. “Let’s start simple, 21 questions?” 

Dean feels the anxiety loosen a bit inside him at the suggestion, he can do 21 questions, “Ya know that’s the best suggestion I’ve heard all day and I’m surprised I didn’t think of it first.” 

Castiel lets out the most enchanting little laugh and Dean swears his heart skips a few thumps in response, “I’ll start,” Castiel goes silent as he conjures up his first question and Dean waits patiently, “What’s the weirdest dream you’ve ever had?” He asks, tone deadly serious. 

“Hmmmm,” Dean takes a moment to really think about it before answering, “In high school I had a recurring nightmare where I showed up to school late for a presentation, right. But, when I get to class I start to talk and all of my teeth fall out. No clue why to this day,” Dean explains with a wry chuckle. 

“I’ll have to agree with you there, that is a weird one. They say if you dream of your teeth falling out it means you feel unheard in your everyday life,” Castiel offers his insight easily. 

Dean admires that kind of confidence and actually agrees, his teens were a crazy time and he often felt shut out like no one was listening to what he needed. 

“Well fair is fair, I too had a weird recurring dream as a kid but mine involved being kidnapped by a certain purple sea witch. Let’s just say I couldn’t watch Little Mermaid for most of third grade thanks to my brother. Your turn,” Castiel says, giving the floor over to Dean and glossing over any kind of explanation as to what that’s about. 

“There’s a story there but we’ll get back to that. Uh lemme think…if you could travel to any year in a time machine, what year would you choose and why?” Dean asks, proud of his clever question. It helps he and Sammy used to play this all the time when they got bored on road trips. 

“That’s a very good question, Dean,” Castiel praises and Dean absolutely does not blush. 

There’s no denying it’s a flirtation, still, Dean’s first instinct is to rebut Castiel’s claims to his intelligence but he’s too damn flustered to get the words out. 

Did he just…he can’t just…fuck. Dean checks his watch and yes, he’s only been in this pod for a total of four minutes. Funnily enough, about the same amount of time it took him to realize he just wasn’t that into Gordon. His skin has a seemingly permanent flush, his heart rate is elevated, he’s been made dizzy by all the ways Castiel’s already tying him up in knots. Four minutes. 

Dean’s well on his way to hooked and he has no clue what this man even looks like, but he’s willing to stick around to hopefully find out. There goes my pie. 

“Bleghhh” Sam fake gags, making him miss Castiel’s answer. “You’re practically drooling, Dean.” 

“Shut up, Sam!” He yells, throwing a pillow at his stupid moose sized head.

“Make me, jerk,” Sam dodges the pillow, snorting a laugh at his obnoxious ability to get under Dean’s skin. 

“Bitch,” Dean mutters ignoring Sam in favor of rewinding so he can relive the first time he ‘met’ Castiel Novak. 

“1969, August 15th to be exact,” Castiel answers. He must sense Dean’s confusion so he elaborates, “I’ve always been fond of the sixties, I figured maybe I’d go back in time to Woodstock.”

The answer is as unexpected as the man himself. Not to mention he’s kinda speaking Dean’s language right now, a lot of good classic rock came out of that decade and the possibility they have a similar taste in music is another checkmark for Cas. Unfortunately, before Dean can provide his own, Bal gives his two minute warning knock. Dean had only heard it when it was demonstrated before his first date, he hadn’t needed it until now. 

“Looks like our time is almost up,” Cas states matter of factly but Dean doesn’t miss the hint of disappointment laced there as well. 

This whole being attracted to someone sight unseen is new, but thrilling. It warms him in the best way to know he isn’t alone, at least in his initial interest. It’s this thought that causes his next question to push past his resistant lips. 

“Yeah…we’ll talk again soon though, right?” Dean can’t help but ask, hoping he doesn’t sound needy or thirsty as Sammy would say. But he has to know they’re on the same page, he’s trying to protect his heart for once. Better late than never.

“Can’t get rid of me that easy, I look forward to hearing your answer,” Cas confirms, immediately soothing Dean’s worries.  

“Good…that’s uh…real good. Night, Cas,” Dean stumbles over his words and the accompanying goodbye, halfway wishing they could spend the entire night just talking. 

Something Dean’s never wanted to do with anyone in his thirty two years of being on this earth. 

“Goodnight, Dean.” Cas softly murmurs before Dean hears the door in the opposite pod click shut.

It isn’t until he’s back outside the door and blindfolded again that he realizes they never exchanged the basics. Everyone else asked the usual questions: how old are you? Where are you from? What do you do for a living? What are you looking for in a partner? That one weirdo that asked what he was wearing before he even sat down. Gross. But, Cas was different from the beginning and Dean’s already mentally counting down to ‘seeing’ him again tomorrow. His mood is buoyed for the rest of the speed dating session even though the remainder of his dates are mediocre at best. By the end of the night he’s narrowed things down to Cas and Lisa, a nice girl he sort of clicked with a few dates after Cas. 

He drifts off to a peaceful and dreamless sleep once Bal escorts him safely back to his room with a reminder he’d be back in the morning with breakfast before the next round of dates. 

_________________________________________

Castiel pauses the show, needing a moment as the memories wash over him. His thoughts are interrupted abruptly by the clearing of a throat next to him on the couch. 

“What time are we supposed to be there?” Gabriel asks, speaking around the rather large lollipop lodged between his teeth. 

Castiel checks the email from production again, “Filming begins this evening but we’re supposed to show up early for hair and makeup. God, I didn’t miss that.” He grumbles.

Gabriel rolls his eyes with a full body huff, “Quit your complaining and press play. It’s just getting good.” 

Castiel ignores the comment, pushing play on the remote. Netflix sent them all copies of the show to view before the reunion tonight. It’s been a year since the events they’re watching now unfolded and Castiel can’t help but soak up the little details he wasn’t privy to at the time. But this he remembers well, the first time he ‘met’ Dean Winchester…

Castiel closes the door of the pod behind him and takes a moment to lean against it, having to catch his breath from the mind blowing experience he just had. He absentmindedly runs a hand through his perpetually messy hair, a nervous habit he’s never quite been able to break. 

Dean.

Castiel had been against this ‘experiment’ ever since he found out Gabriel went and signed him up without his consent. Honestly, he would have backed out completely if it weren’t for Gabriel’s offer. The deal, he goes through with the experiment and Gabriel will butt out of his love life once he inevitably gets sent home. The catch, he has to actually try so no self-sabotage allowed. His older brother knows him too well. Castiel was honestly considering leaving anyway, dooming himself to Gabriel’s planned punishment streaking down the main road back home, until Dean walked in. It felt like they barely had time to speak but the little he did get was enough to convince Castiel. He needs to know Dean, inside and out. The smooth timbre of his voice still echoes in his ears as Castiel tries to compose himself, he’ll ‘see’ Dean again tomorrow and that will have to be enough for now. 

For the first time he wonders if he was wrong, that this could actually work. He never fully considered he’d be leaving here possibly engaged in two weeks, relying heavily on the hope of not making it past the first few days. Historically, the assumption checked out considering his rather spotty dating history. He dismisses the thought before it’s fully formed in his mind, turning his focus to his handler instead. 

“Cat got your tongue, Clarence?” Meg purrs with a sultry wink, approaching him and pulling his blindfold back up over his eyes. “Ughhh I hate to cover up those baby blues…” she whines before guiding him to what should be Castiel’s final date for the night, if he’s keeping track of time correctly. The feisty brunette seems to have decided to adopt him and while Meg may be a little odd, and definitely a bit too forward, Castiel finds her sweet in a murder kitten kind of way.

“Castiel,” he groans, correcting her for what feels like the millionth time. Which is saying something since he’s only known the woman for less than 24 hours. 

At first he thought she truly couldn’t remember his name but now he’s sure she’s referencing something he’s ignorant to. His pop culture knowledge isn’t that expansive, something Gabriel has often made fun of. But, Castiel finds far more enjoyment in a good book or music than in watching mindless television. Ironic considering his current situation. He carefully avoids answering her question, what happens in the dates is his business. Well, until Netflix airs the show at least. 

“Yeah, yeah, yeah. Fine keep your secrets,” Meg replies, the amused smirk ringing through in her tone. 

Castiel would prefer actually seeing the smirk, it takes far less time using visual cues to understand the nuances in what someone is saying and what they actually mean. Castiel’s still getting used to the blindfolds and was glad to hear they wouldn’t need them after tomorrow. But he’s still going to have to overcome that particular hurdle in the pods as well. It was so easy with Dean. 

Castiel pushes the errant thought to the back of his mind, instead following Meg’s guiding hands to the next date. Less than ten minutes later the night has come to an end. Castiel makes the decision to move forward with Dean and Samandriel, or Alfie as he asked to be called. They bonded over having angelic names in common but Castiel isn’t fooling himself, most of his focus will be on getting to know Dean better.  The thought follows him through his evening routine, body practically vibrating with anticipation as he finally lays his head down to attempt to sleep. It takes some time, but he manages to drift off with a soft smile on his face. A mysterious man with a velvety smooth voice is the star of his dreams. 

Castiel wakes up rough. He’s used to his normal routine and waking up in a strange place throws him completely off from the moment his eyes pop open. On some level Castiel knew he probably wouldn’t be able to go for a run or even make his own breakfast but he didn’t anticipate feeling so drained. Yesterday took more out of him than he realized but Castiel doesn’t get time to rest further, the knock on his door announces Meg’s arrival with breakfast as promised. 

“Hello, Megara,” Castiel greets her, enjoying the slight eye twitch at the name. 

“Clarence,” She responds after a half beat, “Well, played…”

“Indeed, thank you for bringing my food,” Castiel thanks her, graciously taking the breakfast tray and placing it on the desk. 

“Just doing my job. You’ve got about ten minutes before I’ll be back to bring you to the pods, enjoy,” Meg says, waggling her fingers in an attempt at a flirty wave. 

There’s no real intent behind it just part of the easy banter they’ve fallen into. Castiel’s grateful for the distraction from the now looming deadline they’re all under. He shuts the door behind Meg and sits down to make the most of his time alone. Breakfast is simple. Scrambled eggs, bacon, toast, and a small fruit salad. He notices they brought him orange juice, not his favorite but he’ll suck it up. Castiel’s just drinking the last bit of juice in the glass, face pulled into a grimace at the taste when he hears Meg’s distinctive knock.

It’s time.  

Chapter Text

Week One 

Day Two

Castiel walks closely behind Meg, close enough to catch a whiff of what he thinks is coconut shampoo. They stop and he feels her shirt brush up against him as she turns to remove his blindfold. 

“Dean’s still in with Lisa so it’s you and Alfie for the next thirty minutes,” Meg advises, pushing him towards the door of the pod before he can utter a word. 

Castiel figures the comment was meant to spark some kind of jealousy but that’s just not his style. If Dean’s meant to be his, he will be. Simple as that. Castiel was hoping he’d get to speak with Dean first but he wouldn’t have chosen Alfie if he didn’t enjoy getting to know him as well. He walks into the pod, settling onto the now familiar sofa and trying to push his disappointment to the back of his mind. Alfie deserves all of his attention and a fair chance. 

“Hey, Castiel,” Alfie immediately greets him, smile evident in his tone. 

Castiel imagines what Alfie may look like based purely on his voice and he just can’t get there.

“Good Morning, Alfie,” Castiel responds, returning the smile even though Alfie can’t see it. 

He waits a moment to see if Alfie will start up a conversation on his own but at his silence Castiel speaks up, “How did you sleep?” 

How did you sleep? Castiel knows he can do better than that but he just can’t bring himself to approach this date like he would one with Dean. In less than 24 hours, twenty one questions has become a ‘thing’ he only does with Dean. It’s something he chooses not to examine too closely as he tunes back into the conversation. 

“I slept okay I guess. It’s always a little weird sleeping in a new place though. How about you?” Alfie asks, his tone suggests he’s genuinely curious. 

“I’m not exactly a morning person in the first place but you’re right, waking up somewhere strange didn’t help,” Castiel admits, pulling on an errant string hanging from one of the throw pillows to keep his hands busy.

They spend the remainder of their time passing the most basic of social niceties and Castiel realizes, beyond the initial excitement over their names, Alfie is not at all someone he could see himself dating long term let alone marrying. He’s a nice kid but he’s just that, a kid. Sure, it’s only about a six year age difference but having dated younger once before Castiel vowed never to do it again. If he’s expected to truly give this process a shot Castiel will probably need to let Alfie go, he just hopes it won’t hurt his feelings. 

He decides to wait until Dean makes his choice before letting Alfie down easy. Castiel’s not sure if it’s too soon to make the decision to just pursue Dean and he doesn’t want to appear too eager. It’s astounding how much Castiel’s perspective on the show has changed since he and Gabriel arrived the day before. In part it may be due to how easy everyone is making this experience. Now if he could just get used to cameras filming his every move. Castiel tries to ignore the camera he knows is installed in the corner to his left but every few minutes he finds his eyes drawn to it. Hopefully they’ll edit out his inadvertent creepy staring. 

“Castiel?” Alfie asks with a resigned sigh.

Worried by the shift in tone Castiel shifts all his focus back to the conversation. He must have missed something important, “Yes?” 

“Is it just me or are we not quite clicking?” Alfie bluntly responds. 

Castiel’s shocked by Alfie bringing up exactly what he’d been thinking. It’s not often someone can practically read his mind like that but it’s not enough to change his mind either. 

“I’m afraid you would be correct, Alfie,” he admits, trying his best to keep an apologetic note in his voice. “Would it be fair to say we should probably just be friends?” 

“Yeah, I think so too. Honestly, I’ve been getting kinda close to another guy here. Fingers crossed but I think he might be the one,” Alfie confesses, the excitement filters back into the conversation with the confession. 

“That’s wonderful! That makes me happy to hear, Alfie,” Castiel congratulates him, glad to know he wasn’t Alfie’s first choice after all, “I’m not too sure where things will go yet but I think I’ve met someone special as well. I guess there is something to this little experiment, huh?” 

He’s still not completely sold on the marriage bit but he could definitely see Dean being in his life years from now in some capacity. 

“Yeah, yeah I think there is,” Alfie readily agrees. 

The remainder of their time is spent essentially gossiping, something he’d never admit to participating in to Gabriel or anyone else for that matter. Castiel truly finds himself disappointed at Meg’s warning knock until Alfie reminds him now that they’re no longer seeing each other they’ll hopefully be placed in the same living quarters. Meg described them as very similar to dorms at a college. They exchange brief goodbyes and the click of Alfie’s door signals his exit from the pod. 

Castiel’s excited to see people other than Meg. The isolation of the past few days is starting to get to him. 

That vibrating feeling is back as he steps out of the pod ready for Meg to lead him down the hall, to Dean. Castiel uses the time to consider his next move. He could tell Dean now that Alfie sort of made the decision for him, but as he and Meg come to a stop in front of the other pod he decides to stick to his original plan. Dean may need the full two weeks to make his choice and Castiel wouldn’t want to pressure him by admitting Dean’s the only man he’s dating at this point. With that thought put to rest, Meg pulls the blindfold from over his eyes and practically pushes Castiel into the pod. 

When he throws a questioning look her way her only response is “No spoilers,” before she firmly shuts the door in his face. Odd. 

Before he can try and unpack what that was about Dean is speaking, “Hey, Cas.” 

Castiel lets it go for now, returning the greeting as he gets comfortable on the sofa, “Hello, Dean.”

“Ugh,” Dean groans, “I’m still not used to this whole not seeing people thing. Really highlights my inability to use my words.” 

Castiel adds his own thoughts on the matter, “I actually feel similarly. I sometimes struggle deciphering meaning in what others say if I can’t visually see them. It’s something that may prove to be challenging through this process.” 

Nothing against Alfie but this conversation is already ten times more interesting and it’s only been a minute and a half, they made the right decision. 

Dean pauses before speaking and Castiel can tell it’s not that he doesn’t know what to say, he’s thinking it through. After a few moments of silence he responds, “Okay, so if you help me I’ll help you. I hate chick flick stuff but Sam, my little brother, always tells me relationships thrive off that kinda sh-stuff. Forgot I was being filmed for a second,” Dean lightly chuckles and it zings through Castiel, making his stomach drop in the best way. “Anyway, I’ll try to be more open and you can call me out if you feel like I’m not. In return, I’ll do my best to make sure my meaning is super clear so it’s easier for you. Sound good?” 

“He really said that?” Gabriel asks, eyes wide in shock. 

“Are we not watching the same thing? Yes. It was a huge factor in me not running away screaming,” Castiel answers honestly, fiddling with his hands in his lap to avoid Gabriel’s stare.  

His brother is well aware at this point of Castiel’s initial intentions to leave, so there’s no point in trying to hide it now. 

“I think I owe that man a pie or two…” Gabriel replies, shoving an inordinate amount of apple jolly ranchers into his mouth. It’s a miracle he hasn’t choked, yet. 

“Shhhh, you’re talking over the tv and you know I hate that,” Castiel grumbles, shooting Gabriel a pointed glare. 

“That…that sounds great, Dean. Can I be honest with you?” He asks, with familiar trepidation. He hates how his normally strong voice wavers a bit in anticipation of the usual rejection that follows this conversation.

“Always,” Dean answers without hesitation. 

“That’s been a major issue in the few long term relationships I’ve had. Yet…we’ve only known each other two days, never even laid eyes on each other. And still, you’d be willing to accept what I’ve been told is ‘untenable’ and ‘weird’ in the past. Thank you,” Castiel finishes, overcome with the urge for physical contact that’s completely out of reach at the moment. 

Dean’s offer is so small, so why does it feel like a huge step forward?

Castiel’s not stupid, he knows there are several diagnoses his long list of behaviors could fall under but he hates labels or feeling pitied and, until now, he hated having to explain all of this to new people. But, Dean’s easy acceptance is refreshing. It takes a huge weight off his shoulders and one of the usual stumbling blocks in his love life has faded away into nothing. 

No better time but the present to get to know the man who’s quickly stealing his heart. 

“I don’t see how making sure you’re comfortable in how we communicate could ever be weird or an inconvenience to me.” Dean scoffs, voice dripping with clear disgust but it’s not directed at Castiel. “One thing I do know, and my mom drilled this into me as a kid, respect goes both ways. How can I expect you to compromise with me if I don’t do the same for you when you need it? No offense but it sounds like you’ve dated a bunch of assholes, Cas.” 

Castiel finds Dean’s honesty refreshing. The harshness of his words is softened by the sincerity in his voice. It calls to that place inside him that has always yearned to be understood. Loved in a way no one else has ever been able to offer, a way he wants so desperately to have. Normally, Castiel’s the one in control like yesterday, the easy flow and flirtation he and Dean fell into. It’s nice to know Dean can also support him when he’s the one feeling insecure and wrong footed. 

Castiel isn’t sure if it’s the thrill of not having seen each other but Dean is pulling him in, closer and closer by the second. 

For once he doesn’t want to run. 

Castiel feels the stirrings of something familiar and long forgotten in his chest, something he hasn’t felt in over a decade. But it’s too soon, right? He pushes the small embers, burning brighter and brighter by the second, as far down as he can and musters up a response. 

“I’d have to agree, actually,” Castiel responds with a tired chuckle but he doesn’t elaborate. They can discuss his short, dysfunctional list of exes another day. Something else Dean said caught his attention, “Your mother sounds like a very intelligent woman.” 

Dean pauses for a moment obviously considering not sharing but to Castiel’s delight he opens up, as promised, without any further prodding. Over the next twenty minutes he and Dean discuss their families at length. 

“So he climbs up on the roof. I’m standing on the ground, god only knows how I made it but Sammy…” Dean breaks out into a laugh, something he’s been doing often as he relays the adventures of Sam and Dean Winchester. It’s endearing, Castiel almost wishes the story wasn’t nearing the end, “Sammy jumps and literally face plants right in front of me. Ended up with a broken arm. Mom was pissed and Sammy should have hated me for talking him into it but I don’t know…in a weird way it made us closer? Maybe that doesn’t make sense…” Dean trails off. 

“No, I think I understand. Gabriel took to calling me ‘grumpy cat’ which morphed into grumpy Catstiel,” he groans at the admission as Dean chuckles, “Go ahead and laugh everyone usually does. He may annoy the hell out of me with all the pranks and jokes but I don’t know what I’d do without him, maybe it’s a younger brother thing,” Castiel explains with a shrug. 

“Sounds like you and Sammy will have a lot to complain about together then,” Dean jokes.

Castiel wonders if Dean caught his own subtle reference to he and Sam meeting at some point in the not so distant future. Under normal circumstances, he’d ask for clarity but he meant it when he said he wouldn’t push Dean. The ball is truly in Dean’s court, whether he knows it or not. 

“Probably, I admire your relationship with your family though. It’s just me and Gabriel so it’s nice to hear about a functional family that actually loves each other,” Castiel admits.

Dean’s silent again, clearly weighing his option to change the subject before pushing ahead, “We didn’t have much of a choice after Dad died. Heart attack. Our Uncle Bobby was there if we needed him but it was mostly just us and Mom against the world. It still feels like that sometimes…” his words trail off into an unfinished thought. 

Even now Castiel can hear the underlying grief in his voice. This is a man that feels deeply but, by his own admission, doesn’t often share those feelings. A recipe for disaster. 

“Gabriel mostly raised me, up until our parents disowned him for kissing the pastor’s son behind church,” Even now he can’t help but laugh at the circumstances they found Gabriel in, even though what followed was heart wrenching and so so wrong, “He took me in when they tossed me out too a few years later, we haven’t seen or heard from them since. It was very much ‘us against the world’ in the beginning though,” Castiel shares, hopeful Dean won’t think he’s comparing their struggles. 

Dean lets out an audible whoosh of air, “God, Cas. Why is it so easy to talk to you? I’m never usually like this. Sammy’s gonna think I’m some kinda pod person,” Dean snorts a laugh at his choice of words and Castiel joins him before he gets serious again, “…it’s not just me, right?” Dean asks, a tinge of insecurity creeping into his tone. 

Castiel washes it away before it can take root, “No…no of course it’s not just you.” 

The admission feels right as soon as it passes his lips, lifting a weight he didn’t know he was carrying right off his shoulders. 

Dean’s falling too. 

“I was thinking…” Dean begins to speak and is abruptly interrupted by both Meg and Bal’s one minute warning knocks. Great. “Well I guess I’ll have to hold that thought.” 

Which reminds Castiel, “You never did answer that question from yesterday…”

“Oh, I didn’t?” Dean asks, clearly feigning ignorance, “Well, it gives you something to look forward to,” he answers, coyly. 

“Trust me you’re more than enough to look forward to all on your own, Dean,” Castiel can’t help but return the flirtation but when Meg knocks again he knows it’s time to go. 

They say their farewells and Castiel walks quickly, albeit reluctantly, to the door of the pod where Meg waits impatiently. 

“I know he’s like a shiny new toy right now but we have a schedule to keep and this is my job, got it?” Meg asks, there’s an affectionate twinkle in her eye that doesn’t match the glare affixed on her face so if he’s guessing correctly she’s not really upset, just slightly annoyed. 

“Got it, lead the way,” Castiel acquiesces, following Meg down the hall, presumably to where he will be living for the next two weeks. Hopefully he’ll have time later to unpack he and Dean’s conversation later. 

“I hope you and your brother get along he’s in here too. If not you’ll just have to get over it,” Meg snarks as they walk up to an inconspicuous green door marked Group B. “You’re the last to arrive, have fun.” 

Meg pushes Castiel backwards through the door and he turns to find Gabriel and eight strangers staring back at him. 

“H-hello,” Castiel manages to spit out raising his hand awkwardly in a half wave. 

He hates being caught off guard like this and has a feeling Meg did it on purpose. Thankfully Gabriel comes to his rescue. 

“Cassie!!!! Say ya missed me,” Gabriel screeches, pulling him down into a bear hug. 

“I missed you, Gabriel,” Castiel deadpans, pulling himself out of his brothers grasp. Dealing with Gabriel’s familiar nonsense helps to center him in a way. Castiel straightens out his shirt and turns his attention to the strangers in the room. 

A short haired, brown skinned woman approaches him with a soft smile on her face and it hits Castiel in that moment he can see all of them. No more blindfolds. He’s so relieved he almost misses her putting a hand out to greet him properly, “I’m Stevie, it’s nice to meet you.” 

Castiel returns the greeting and cycles through the group. It turns out Stevie is 26 and an established artist. He can already tell they’ll get along well. Castiel meets Victor next, a 36 year old master barber. The man seems no nonsense but pleasant in their brief interaction. Jody, who introduces themselves as a 38 year old police officer, has a friendly demeanor that helps settle his nerves. 

Dorothy and Kaia both begin to introduce themselves at the same time, making Castiel break out into a light chuckle. Eventually the flustered women straighten themselves out enough for Castiel to determine Dorothy is 27 working in sales and Kaia is 25 and owns a smoke shop in her town. 

A stern looking man comes forward and introduces himself as Michael, a 36 year old engineer, and Castiel wonders if they’ve met before but the issue becomes clear when he mentions dating Alfie. So this is Alfie’s dream guy. Castiel isn’t convinced but it really isn’t his business, he accepts Michael’s stiff handshake and turns to the man behind him. He refuses to get into some kind of ‘turf war’ over someone he’s already decided not to pursue. Gordon briefly introduces himself, 34 year old business owner, and quickly walks into the living room away from everyone else. Castiel doesn’t take it personally, the man seems like somewhat of a loner which makes him wonder why he would even come on a show like this. 

Castiel’s thoughts are interrupted by a perky brunette bounding up to his side, “Hi! I’m Lisa. 34, regional manager.” Instead of the usual offered handshake she pulls him into a brief but awkward hug. Odd. Castiel doesn’t do a great job of clearing the confusion from his face as she rushes to clarify, “I just feel like I know you through Dean. Sorry if that was weird.” Ohhhh this is that Lisa. Shit. 

________________________________________

Dean exits the pod feeling light as a feather and buzzing with excitement. Sure, he had a hard conversation with Lisa earlier but after spending more time with Cas today he knows it was right. Dean only wants to ‘see’ Cas going forward, he needs to see where this goes. Without any distractions. And that’s what Lisa would have been, a distraction. A way to temper and ignore the growing feelings he has for Cas, the feelings he couldn’t see himself ever returning for Lisa. Dean heard the signs of her getting attached, she’d mentioned wedding dresses at least twice today before he finally broke the news. Historically, if her description of herself is accurate, she was definitely his type. But, you need more than physical attraction to make a relationship work and that’s what he’s finally learning through this experiment. Dean and Lisa wouldn’t last a year, with Cas he could see decades into their future. If he doesn’t end up screwing things up somehow. But, he didn’t get a chance to share any of this with Cas.  

As he follows Bal to a light blue door labeled Group A Dean promises himself to bring it up on their third date the following day. 

“Time to meet your new roomies,” Then as an afterthought, “Oh and your brother’s in there too. He’s very large, it’s unnerving. Anyway, have fun!” Bal pushes the door open and waits for Dean to walk through before shutting it behind him. 

The first person he sees is Sammy, taller than everyone in the room the big moose. Dean’s legs are moving before he knows it so he can wrap his brother in a hug. Not because he missed him, because he has so much to thank him for. Of course Sam has no clue why he’s being hugged so enthusiastically but after a moment he wraps his long arms around Dean, giving him a few back taps before they both let go. 

They share a silent acknowledgement they’ll discuss what that was about later, in private. 

“Well if I’da known you looked like that I wouldna let ya loose that easy, cher,” a burly man with ice blue eyes says in a distinct cajun drawl, blatantly eyeing Dean from head to toe. 

Dean can’t help but flush furiously, recognizing the voice as Benny's. He’d had one ten minute date with him but it was after Cas so Benny didn’t really stand much of a chance. Not to mention he was a little on the young side, but they got along well in the short time he spoke with Benny.

Dean decides to be honest, it’s been working so far, “Normally I’d say the same but I’m a one dude man,” and doesn’t that just feel weird as hell to say out loud. The phrasing feels off but they get his meaning, “I’d love to be your friend though.” He finishes, aiming for a genuine smile.

“Wait, you actually met someone? Like just one someone?” Sammy interrupts, eyes wide in shock.

The gravity of that statement is clear and he’ll definitely be having a conversation with Sam to fill him in but for now Dean gives a simple answer. 

He’s not sure if he should be pissed at the disbelief in Sam’s voice though.

“Yeah, I guess there’s more to this strange experiment than I thought,” he admits with an exaggerated eye roll, “You were right, savor it because you probably won’t hear me say it again for another decade.” Dean smirks at Sam’s bitchface. 

Benny cuts in, “Sounds good to me, you already know the basics about me Dean but your brother doesn’t. I don't think we met in the pods, the names Benny,” he introduces himself shaking Sam’s hand, “24, fitness trainer.” 

“Nice to meet you, Benny,” Sam replies, smiling before releasing his hand. “I’m his younger brother Sam, not Sammy no matter what he says. I’m 27 and I work in environmental law.” 

Slowly he gets to know the rest of the group. There’s Charlie, 30 and the CEO of her own tech startup. She immediately claims him as her new best friend and he accepts it, loving her exuberant nature. Sarah, a 33 year old holistic health and empowerment coach, was dating Sam but just decided today not to move forward with him. It’s obvious she’s regretting that decision now that she’s seen him but isn’t that the whole point? If all this mumbo jumbo is accurate, Sarah should have been able to choose Sammy without having to see him at all. It proves she’d be willing to have a relationship based off of lust alone and Dean would never want that for his brother. Donna, a 34 year old EMT, won’t shut up about how much she can’t wait to get back into the pods to talk to Jody. Apparently, like Dean, she’s narrowed down to just Jody but hasn’t told her yet either. They sound like a sweet couple and Dean hopes it works out for them.

Dean remembers Bela, a 28 year old former NFL cheerleader, from the pods as well. From the looks she keeps shooting his way it’s obvious she’s also rethinking her decision. Ya snooze, ya lose. Alfie’s a 22 year old ex tank mechanic and Dean’s fairly certain he’s the youngest person here. Claire, a 26 year old journalist, is a spitfire of a thing and Dean could see himself easily taking them under his wing. Jo, a 30 year old welder, surprisingly is from the same area as Dean and Sam. It turns out they even lived as close as one town over as a kid but they’ve never crossed paths before now. They give Dean and Sam an open invitation to their mom Ellen’s bar, The Roadhouse, that both boys promise to take them up on once they return to their normal lives. 

“Dean,” Sam takes the moment while everyone’s still getting to know each other to gesture for Dean to meet him down the hall. 

Dean nods and follows Sam down the deserted hallway, it must lead to the bedrooms but he hasn’t had a chance to explore beyond the living room yet. 

“Spill,” Sam insists, taking a position leaning against the wall as though he’s getting comfortable. 

“Hate to disappoint but this isn’t a long story,” Dean begins, unable to keep the soft smile off his face when he thinks about Cas, “His name is Castiel, he’s 28 and he’s a data scientist but I have no clue what that is so don’t ask. He tried to explain, it didn’t go well.” Dean laughs and Sam joins in. 

As their laughter dies down Sam breaths out a whoosh of air, running his hand through his long brown locks, “I really thought you’d be halfway home by now. Not because you couldn’t find someone but because you’re so damn stubborn. I’m glad you chose to stay and I’m happy for you Dean, you deserve it.” 

“Yeah, not gonna lie, the original plan was to stay for like a day and then hightail it home to mom,” Dean admits and again he and Sam are doubled over in laughter.

Okay maybe he missed his brother, but only a little bit. 

“So what about you, Sammy?” Dean asks, leaning against the wall and bumping Sam with his shoulder. 

“It’s Sam, and maybe…” he grumbles, moving to walk away before saying anything further. 

“Hey, I told you about Cas now spill,” Dean demands, flicking Sam in the arm for emphasis. 

“Ow! Now I’m really not telling you, jerk,” Sam nudges Dean away trying to escape. 

Dean does his best mad scientist laugh. 

“Tell me or I’ll sit on you, bitch!”

“Ha! No you won’t, not with all these witnesses. Ooo and this is being filmed,” Sam helpfully reminds him. 

Dean feigns annoyance knowing Sam will tell him when he’s ready, “Fine, keep your secrets. I’ll find out one way or another.”

“Whatever, let’s go mingle.” Sam grumbles, walking back towards the living room. 

Dean follows after Sam, wondering what could possibly happen next but feeling much more secure now that his brother is back at his side. He hears Charlie yell something about a game night, apparently there’s a closet full of games Benny found, and that boosts his mood even more. They spend the rest of the evening playing all kinds of board games and becoming fast friends, even Bela who seems to soften over the several hours they spend playing. Surprisingly, most of it goes unrecorded and that allows Dean to settle down into an even more comfortable space, it helps him come to a decision. 

Dean will tell Cas about Lisa tomorrow, and hopefully Cas will choose him back. 

Chapter Text

Week One

Day Two

Just as Dean’s getting tired Charlie has the bright idea to share their coming out stories as some kind of bonding experience. One of the production assistants runs off predictably to make sure all the cameras and audio are in working order, slowly but surely they begin to share. 

“Honestly it wasn’t a huge deal,” Dean says, mind sending him back to the day, “I was thirteen I think and there was this new boy in school, Cole. When my upstairs brain finally caught up with my downstairs brain I realized I felt the same way I did for him as I had Rhonda the year before. Went to my mom a few months later and her response, ‘I already know’, literally blew my mind,” Dean recalls, still blown away to this day by her easy acceptance.

“I barely had to come out, Dean kind of paved the way but I do remember having a similar conversation with mom around the same age. My eye opening crush was my best friend Theodore, we’re still close to this day. I know it’s not that easy for everyone but I’m thankful for having my families support,” Sam shares, patting Dean on the shoulder in thanks. 

Sam pauses the show and turns to Dean, “You ever wonder if things would’ve been different if Dad was alive?” He asks out of the blue.

It throws Dean for a loop. John Winchester isn’t a topic you just bring up. 

"Uhm, no not really. Why?” Dean asks, wondering where Sam is going with this. 

“Well, you know he was a Marine, they weren’t exactly known for tolerance in his time, and I for sure heard him say some anti LGBT stuff before he died. I just wonder if he would’ve been able to get past all that for us, or if he would’ve gone the other way…” Sam finally spits out, eyes trained on the ground as he explains. 

Dean’s played this game too many times in his head and it breaks his heart to know Sammy does the same. John was a complicated man. Sure, he loved his family but he also had a very toxic side as well. One they all tend to brush under the rug in light of how traumatic and sudden his passing was for the family, but make no mistake, Dean knows if he had lived to see either one of his boys come out it would not have gone well. His only solace in the times he really admits to himself what his father was capable of is the fact that Mary Winchester would never allow anyone to hurt her boys. Their mom would protect them, always. Even from her own husband. 

But, he doesn’t share any of this with Sam. He doesn’t need nor deserve to have that burden to carry around. Sammy may have heard some of what John let slip around him but Dean knows that’s just scratching the surface of what he was capable of spewing when he really got going. In Sam’s mind, John was a great dad who occasionally made some off-color comments. Dean knows different. 

So instead, he gives him a comfortable lie. 

“No, Sammy. There’s no use thinking like that, we’re his sons. He would have accepted us, even if it took some time,” Dean pats Sam on the back and presses play before he can respond. 

He hopes Sammy doesn’t catch the single tear sliding down his face as he furiously wipes it away, clearing his throat roughly and ignoring the odd look Sam gives him in response. 

“I actually never got a chance to come out to my parents, they died in a car crash when I was a kid.” Everyone immediately shares their condolences and Charlie thanks them before continuing, “I’d like to think they would have been supportive, though. I did come out as a lesbian in high school once I felt comfortable, there was some bullying but for the most part it wasn’t too bad of an experience and it got me my first girlfriend, Gilda.” Charlie finishes, beaming smile on her face. 

Donna pipes up next, “I came out as bi a little later in life, my junior year of college. I’d been questioning for awhile but I had a lightbulb moment when I kinda sorta fell in love with my roommate, Ashley,” Donna admits, smiling sheepishly, “My dad didn’t take it well but we weren’t all that close to begin with. My mom on the other hand was and has been amazing, took me to my first pride parade and everything. This tiny woman practically covered in rainbows wearing a ‘free hugs’ shirt, it was perfect.” 

Dean can see her eyes glistening with unshed tears so he passes her a tissue discreetly. He sees the gratitude there as well as she dabs at them, offering a nod in thanks. He smiles back briefly before tuning back into the conversation. 

“Honestly mine’s boring,” Alfie admits with a chuckle, “It’s always just been me and my grandma. I realized I was probably bi in high school and definitely pan a few years later, but she never really cared. I may as well have told her the weather for the day, she never treated me any different,” he finishes with a shrug. 

“I’m in the same boat as Alfie, sort of,” Sarah says, “My dad never treated me any different but I was scared out of my mind he would after I kissed my best friend, Sherry, in middle school. He sat me down, gave me ‘the talk’ a second time, this time with more relevant information, and we never really addressed it again after that. I kinda love him for it, it shouldn’t be this big deal right? No one ever has to come out as straight…” 

Sarah’s annoyed frown morphs into a sweet smile at the nods of agreement she receives from around the room. It’s like she’s pulling Dean’s thoughts straight from his head and he can see why Sam initially chose her, Sarah’s a smart girl. He hopes she finds what she’s looking for. 

Benny chimes in, “I actually just came out a year or two ago so much more recent than most, except Alfie I think. For me, it was one of my clients that really woke somethin’ up in me and it just opened the floodgates.” He smiles at the memory and it brightens his features making Dean smile as well, “I was in therapy at the time dealin’ with the death of my dad and when I realized we were spendin’ half the time tryin’ to figure out my feelings for this guy instead, I knew. I accidentally came out to him before I even told my ma,” Benny admits with an amused chuckle. 

“Complimented his ass while he was doin’ squats,” Benny erupts in an honest to god giggle and everyone joins in. When the laughter dies down he continues, “Luckily he was into it but eventually we realized we worked better as friends, so here I am. Oh! And my ma was fine with it too.” Benny laughs again, scanning the amused reactions around the room before giving the floor to Bela. 

“Pan as well, I didn’t actually come out as much as my father caught me in a compromising position with an ex,” Bela states coyly, not elaborating any further. He gets the feeling she wants their imaginations to fill in the blanks, “He didn’t care, neither did mother and that was pretty much that.” 

Way to tell a story without sharing much of anything about yourself. 

“I came out twice actually,” Jo shares with amusement, “Once as bi then again a year later as non binary my senior year of high school. I don’t think my mom knows how not to support me so I never expected anything less,” They laugh with a snort. 

Dean can relate having a very involved mom himself and shoots a look at Sam who smiles, shaking his head. They wouldn’t trade her for anything but Mary fully fits the definition of helicopter mom. They wouldn’t want her any other way. 

“She’s had my back since day one and I love her for it,” Jo finishes with a nod of their head. 

“Same, I came out to my parents as a lesbian my senior year of high school and as non-binary last year. Like Dean’s mom they both said they knew already, both times. It was slightly frustrating, almost like my big moment was stolen but at the same time I appreciate them giving me time to figure it out on my own,” Claire shares, clearly excited to have someone they can relate to here. 

Dean’s glad to hear, for the most part, everyone had a positive experience sharing who they truly are with the people they love. But, much like Sarah, he hopes they reach a point where it isn’t necessary for anyone to have to ‘come out’ anymore. 

Maybe that’s just wishful thinking though. 

The group doesn’t stay in the living room much longer after that. Everyone helps to clean up the board games and snacks before heading off to their assigned rooms. Dean hopes he’s not with Benny, that would be kind of awkward. 

It turns out he doesn’t have to worry, he’s rooming with Sammy. 

“If you snore I’m getting up and kicking you, just like old times,” Dean reminds Sam of the rules they set when they used to share a room as kids, opening the door to step inside. 

“As long as you don’t keep me up tossing and turning over there, we’re good,” Sam agrees, following behind him and choosing the bed on the right. 

Dean walks over to the bed on the left, surveying their new living space. The beds are a similar size and style as the ones in their temporary rooms but this room is larger with no private bathroom. They passed the one they’ll be sharing with everyone else down the hall. It was nice, decent enough for the next few weeks. It’s obvious a lot of time and money went into this set up and making sure they’d be comfortable during their stay. 

“How do you think Bobby and Garth are doing holding down the fort at the shop?” Sam asks, unzipping his duffle bag and rifling through his clothes. 

Dean sighs heavily, he hadn’t wanted to dump running the shop on Bobby and Garth but there was no one else he trusted more to handle his business in his absence. He had a few restoration jobs that needed to be pushed back since the clients insisted Dean be the one working on their cars, but other than that Bobby and Garth have full control of daily operations and repairs until Dean comes home. He can’t exactly check on the shops social media pages in isolation like they are but Dean’s sure his mom is doing her part to keep them running as well. She’s more obsessed with his follower count and likes than he is anyway. 

“Hopefully they’re fine, if not there isn’t much I can do about it from here is there?” Dean points out as he unpacks his own duffle bag, placing his clothes in the dresser across from his bed. 

“Yeah, you’re right. I keep thinking of that case that got put on hold right before we left. If I’m not there and it goes before the judge that means Brady will have to step in and…just…ughhh,” Sam groans in frustration, sitting down on the bed and resting his head in his hands. 

Sammy’s always serious about his job but leaving such a big case in the hands of his ex? An ex he currently despises? Yeah he’s not filled with the warm and fuzzies about that and Dean fully understands. 

“It may not mean much coming from me but it’s gonna be okay, Sam. Brady’s an asshole but he’s good at his job, you know that. He’s done a lot to screw you over but he’d never ruin a case on purpose,” Dean reassures his little brother, watching as the tension in his shoulders eases with every word. 

“Thanks, Dean. I’m glad we’re doing this together,” Sam says, standing up to finish unpacking. 

And that’s a little close to his chick flick limit for the day so Dean changes the subject, “You think they have bacon? I’m craving some bacon, man.” 

Sam rolls his eyes, well aware of Dean’s evasion tactics by now but he allows it, “You’re liable to have a heart attack before you’re 35 if you keep it up Dean.” 

“Bacon is healthy, Sammy. It’s got like healthy fats or something, I read it in Men’s Health I think,” he explains, closing the last drawer in the dresser and turning to face Sam. 

“Since when do you read Men’s Health?” Sam asks, face screwed up in confusion. 

“Who said I bought it for reading?” Dean pointedly asks, waggling his eyebrows. 

“Ewwwww! You’re so gross, Dean,” Sam whines, grabbing a set of pajamas on his way to the door, “I’m taking a shower.” 

Dean flops back on his bed still laughing to himself as Sam makes a beeline for the bathroom down the hall. Tormenting Sam helps him fall back into a familiar pattern, but soon his brain meanders back to the subject of Cas. 

Dean scrubs his hands up and down his face, lightly groaning to himself as he mentally runs through how exactly he went from thinking this whole experiment was a sham to, possibly, having fallen in love in less than three days. 

“What have I gotten myself into this time?” Dean asks the silent room, obviously not expecting an answer.

Making the decision to shower in the morning, he strips down to an undershirt and boxers before pulling back the blanket and snuggling into the comfortable bed. By the time Sam returns from his shower Dean’s barely awake enough to mumble a goodnight before he drifts off into a deep sleep. 

______________________________

Castiel spends a good thirty minutes indulging Gabriel’s nosiness about Dean. But he can’t lie it’s nice to have someone to run all his feelings and thoughts by, and it seems Gabriel’s met someone too. Though he’s being very closed mouth about who, go figure. That’s the least of Castiel’s concerns, however. 

Lisa. Considering how she greeted him, Castiel would have thought she would be just a bit nicer. He was wrong. He’s deciphered at this point it was a clever ruse to get his defenses down and now the real Lisa has revealed herself. 

It started when they were playing the usual 'get to know you’ games in the living room. Gabriel got bored, as usual, and started making up his own supposed game. From what Castiel could tell it was really just a way to ask invasive questions in the form of a game. Typical Gabriel. 

“You know what we haven’t done?” Gabriel asks, continuing to speak before anyone can respond, “Stevie, what’s your label?” 

“Huh?” She asks, confusion clouding her features.

“You know what part of the rainbow brigade do you hail from milady?” Gabe responds in an exaggerated British accent with his signature eyebrow waggle. 

Castiel hangs his head in embarrassment but, shockingly, Stevie answers albeit with a confused half smile. 

“I’m a lesbian. You’re weird Gabe but I like it,” She giggles, shoving Gabriel in the shoulder. 

He takes the gentle push good-naturedly then sets his sights on Jody, “Jodes, what about you?” 

“I’m non-binary and pan, Gabe,” they respond with a clap of their hands and averted eyes.

Castiel can see the expectation of a bad reaction but the group quickly reminds Jody they’re among friends, friends who understand what it means to be judged for who you are. For the second time today his thoughts drift to Bart and Naomi Novak, thankfully they don’t stay there long. It seems Gabriel’s including him in his torture. 

“Earth to Cassieeee!” He’s practically screaming in Castiel’s ear. 

“Turn the volume down, Gabriel,” he groans. Knowing he won’t shut up until Castiel answers, he gives Gabriel what he wants. “Gay,” he responds with a small wave, mouth quirked up into a smile. 

“Samesies,” Gabriel responds, the rest of his statement gets cut off when Castiel’s distracted by a side conversation off to his left. 

“…no clue what he sees in him. I mean if he could see me compared to him…” 

“…shhh…trying to…just shut…”

“…look I’m just saying…not his type at all…” 

Castiel’s only getting bits and pieces but it sounds like Lisa and Dorothy. He doesn’t turn to look afraid they’ll stop talking, then he’ll never figure it out. When Castiel hears his name it becomes clear. Lisa doesn’t think he’s good enough for Dean. Screw her.

Well, at least he doesn’t have to waste time trying to be nice to her now.

“What about you, Mikey?” Gabe asks, pointing finger guns at Michael. 

Michael scoffs, “Please don’t call me that, thank you. I’m trans actually, afab and gay.” He answers, the first sign of nerves peeking through in his voice. 

Michael needn’t have worried, Dorothy shushes Lisa for the last time before speaking up, “Awesome! I’m trans too, amab and I’m bi.” She shares a warm smile with Michael which he readily returns. 

Castiel thinks he’s getting a small glimpse of what Alfie sees in him. It’s sweet.

The sense of community in the room grows as they share, despite Lisa’s continued attempts to wrangle Dorothy back into conversation about Castiel. He appreciates her refusal to participate and reminds himself to thank her later. 

“Gordo, what’s up?” Gabriel asks, stuffing his mouth with popcorn. 

Gordon rolls his eyes but even he isn’t immune to Gabriel’s antics, “Bi.” 

Again, he finds himself wondering why on god’s green earth Gordon would apply to be on this show. Gabriel crowned him the king of one word answers earlier in the night and it’s holding true. Odd. 

“Vic, gimmie the goods.” He shouts, grabby hands reaching for Victor. 

“I’m pan,” Victor answers, laughing too hard to form a full sentence. 

“Gabriel, seriously?” Castiel asks, more amused than exasperated at this point. 

“How do you do it?” Kaia asks through her own giggles. “Like deal with all this on a regular basis?”

“I have no clue,” he answers honestly, dodging the flick Gabriel aims at his ribs. 

“Whatever,” Gabriel rolls his eyes and moves on to his next victim, “Kaia!”

“Transfemme as well,” She shoots a look over to Dorothy who squeezes her hand in solidarity, “and I’m a lesbian.” 

“Great, now we’re one big happy family. Who wants shots?” Gabriel moves to get up before he’s interrupted by an incredulous voice. 

“Uhm excuse me? What about me?” Lisa asks, glaring at Gabriel’s back. 

Gabriel turns around and Castiel can see a familiar mischievous twinkle in his hazel eyes. He did that on purpose, he must have heard Lisa talking. Which means everyone probably heard her. As he looks around the room his suspicions are confirmed.

 But, no one comes to her defense. 

“Oh, I thought we’d already heard enough from you,” Gabriel responds, smoothly. He makes a dismissive motion with his hand, continuing over to the bar to pour the shots, “Go ahead.” 

Lisa’s expression shifts from affronted to slightly ashamed, but clearly not enough to apologize. She seems to bolster herself before responding, “I’m bi,” the scowl on her face only deepens when everyone else largely ignores her. 

Gabriel turns around with a tray full of shots and more popcorn, “Alright who wants to watch a movie? I vote Little Mermaid” he fixes Castiel with a look. For a moment he wishes he could sink into the couch and disappear rather than let Gabriel torture him with that movie. 

Instead, he mouths a thank you as Gabriel squishes himself in between Castiel and the arm of the couch, far too close for comfort but he wouldn’t want it any other way. 

“Jealous bitch,”

“Gabriel!”

“What?! You know I’m right.”

“…”

_________________________________

Week One

Day Three

Finally, Dean gets Cas alone. He’s been up for five torturous hours and now he’s on his way to the pods, to tell Cas he’s committed to completing this journey with him. Just Cas. This is the first time Dean’s made the trip to the pods without Bal, and without a blindfold, it’s odd but comforting to know they’ve made it to this point. 

Dean nods and waves at the now familiar faces walking past him. Donna’s headed back to her room after talking with Jody and he caught Sam coming through the door from who knows where. He still has yet to tell Dean anything. It’s kind of annoying but he’s trying to give Sam space. Being the older brother sucks sometimes, especially when Dean has to make the ‘mature' decision. Life was much simpler when he could just tickle it out of Sammy, before he grew into the jolly green giant. 

Dean approaches the pod door, pushing it open without hesitating before freezing barely a step inside. Icy cold tendrils of fear and panic begin to snake their way through his body, locking him in place. 

“Dean?” Cas asks, his usual rumble tinged with concern. “Are you okay?”

Dean shakes himself back to reality, he can do this. Still, commitment on this level is scary as fuck. He forces himself to take the remaining steps over to the sofa, finally answering Cas, “I’m good.” He’s never sounded less convincing in his life but, thankfully, Cas lets it slide. 

“Good,” Cas responds, “How’s your brother?” 

Dean can only imagine the smile accompanying those words, but he’d like to think it’s absolutely gorgeous. He pours himself a drink before responding. 

“Sammy’s good, too. Being a little shit about who he’s dating but he’s always like that,” Dean admits, unable to suppress an annoyed huff. Deciding to steer the conversation elsewhere he turns the question back on Cas. “How’s Gabe?” 

“Ughhh, obnoxious as ever but in a completely endearing way if that’s at all possible,” Cas groans but the affection he holds for his brother is clear. “If it weren’t for him…never mind.” 

Dean perks up at the change in Cas, alarm bells going off. He’s always so even natured the abrupt switch to melancholy is jarring. 

“What’s wrong? Did something happen yesterday?” Dean asks. 

“…I know we promised to be honest but I’m not sure if I should tell you,” Cas admits. “I don’t know if this is more harmful if I keep it to myself or tell you and risk upsetting you in some way.”

Dean’s grateful he didn’t deny it, Cas just isn’t so sure about sharing whatever it is. 

“I’m not gonna be mad, I swear. I just wanna help,” Dean tries to reassure. 

“Okay, It’s about Lisa…” Cas says, words accompanied by the clink of a glass on a tabletop. 

“I’m sorry, Cas. I really meant to tell you it’s just…” Dean rushes to explain, of course Cas is upset. Lisa must have told him and now he’s pissed Dean didn’t say something yesterday. 

Cas cuts him off before he can finish, “Meant to tell me what?”

Dean suddenly gets the feeling he spoke too soon, “Wait, wait, wait. I think we’re talking about two different things, what were you going to say?” 

Cas doesn't sound convinced but he continues, “When I met her for the first time yesterday she was nice at first and I figured it’s because we’re both dating you.” 

Dean doesn’t take the opportunity to clear that up not wanting to interrupt again. He’ll tell Cas everything, but right now he wants to now what Lisa could have possibly done to upset Cas.

“She hugged me which was odd in and of itself. I’m not really a fan of physical contact with people I’m not close to. Anyway, afterwards we were getting to know each other and I hear this side conversation she’s having with another woman in the group,” Cas hesitates for a moment before continuing, “She was telling Dorothy she thought I was unattractive and essentially not good enough for you. That she would be a better match.” 

Dean’s beyond pissed but, funnily enough, this just reinforces that he made the right decision. Lisa’s showing all the red flags he refused to put up with in a relationship. Never again.

“Do you believe that, Cas?” Dean asks, pleading for his answer to be an emphatic hell no. 

When Cas hesitates again it breaks his heart, “I’m not going to lie and say it didn’t hurt and I won’t say I’m not concerned if you do see me you won’t find me attractive. That’s not to say I’ve ever had someone tell me I’m not, it’s just this whole experience has me a little turned around I guess.” 

“Me too, Cas. But I need you to hear me,” Dean says, injecting as much sincerity and genuine adoration into his voice as he can, “When I see you, I could care less what you look like on the outside that’s not what matters to me. If you’re still my Cas I’ll always l…care about you, I swear.”

“Sap,” Sam snarks with a snort.

“Shuddup,” Dean rolls his eyes but he can’t wipe the smile from his face.

Dean tries to suppress the little gasp that escapes his mouth at the realization, but he can’t let that word out. There’s a difference between being honest and revealing way too much too soon. Dean locks that little word into a box and jams it back into the ‘check back on this never’ pile in his head. He knows he’s fooling himself. Dean knows it’s just going to find a way out in some creatively embarrassing fashion, because that’s just how things work for him. But for now, he can comfort Cas while keeping that particular revelation to himself. 

“I heard that, Dean.” Cas laughs openly at Dean’s groan as his bubble is promptly popped. 

Shit, he’s gonna be the actual death of me. 

“Calling me out on my shit I see,” Dean chuckles, resting his head in his hands. “You’re gettin’ real good at that.” 

“Learning ‘Dean Speak’ isn’t too hard if you pay attention,” Cas admits. “I…I care about you too, Dean.” 

Dean’s at a loss for words, this conversation hasn’t gone any of the places he intended when he walked through that door. Luckily there’s no time limit today so he has plenty of time to work through this all with Cas. 

Cas loves him. He loves Cas. 

“Did we just…?” Dean asks dazedly. 

“Yes, in a manner of speaking I think we did,” Cas readily confirms, smirk evident in his tone. 

“Then I guess it’s perfect timing to tell you,” Dean replies.

“Tell me what?” He asks worriedly. 

“Oh nothing major, just Lisa was being pissy because I broke things off with her,” Dean hears a sharp intake of breath, his only indication of Cas’ surprise at his words, “Ignore her, Cas. It’s just me and you, now. If you’ll have me that is,” Dean finishes, rubbing his sweaty palms down his thighs and bouncing his leg in nervous anticipation. 

“You’re doing that thing you do when you’re nervous,” Cas responds, clearly enjoying keeping Dean in suspense.

“How do you even know ya can’t see me,” Dean whines, big smile plastered on his face.  

He’s practically giddy, is it really this easy?

“I can hear your foot tapping on the carpet,” Cas cracks up before finally answering, “Of course, Dean. Though I do have a confession of my own, I guess.” 

“What?” Dean asks, slightly concerned. 

“I broke things off with Alfie yesterday as well, we’re really better as friends. I just thought it was too soon so I waited to tell you, I guess that was dumb in light of recent events,” Castiel explains, sheepishly. 

“No not dumb, just you being cautious and I can respect that. Soooo what happens next?” Dean asks, taking a sip from his abandoned glass of whiskey. 

“I don’t know…pet names?” Cas asks, the first hints of mischief creeping into his voice.

“Absolutely not…” Dean asserts.

“Okay…for now,” Cas agrees too easily but there’s a promise hidden there. 

Dean knows he’s not off the hook but does he even wanna be? Nope.

____________________________

Week One

Day Four

Castiel can’t believe Lisa could be so deceitful. She hasn’t spoken to Dean in days yet she’s still trying to make Castiel jealous as often as she can. And for what? So she can make herself feel better after Dean dumped her or just to make Castiel feel like shit? It honestly doesn’t matter but Castiel’s had just about enough. He’s enlisted Gabriel to help him in his efforts to go high even though she’s finding every opportunity available to go low. 

“What if we just put a litttttle bit of Nair in her shampoo? She’ll never know it was us, I promise,” Gabriel offers, chewing the twizzler hanging out of his mouth. 

“No, Gabriel. Honestly there are cameras everywhere,” Castiel shakes his head, subconsciously eyeing the corners of the room he knows have cameras. 

Just like the pods he finds his eyes drifting to them every so often. It’s hard to truly get comfortable when you feel constantly watched, because you actually are constantly being watched. 

“Okay then we’re back to my original plan, adult slumber party in the living room and she’s not invited,” Gabriel amends with a shrug. 

Castiel considers the fact they’ve been brainstorming for thirty minutes and decides this is the best plan he’s got. It’ll send a clear message that they collectively don’t accept her bullshit while he gets to enjoy a night with his new friends. Castiel quietly yearns for the days he’ll, hopefully, be able to curl up with Dean on a couch and watch as many bad movies as they can find. Dean admitted its one of his favorite things to do and promised Cas a movie marathon when they see each other. When. Neither of them say if anymore, at this point it’s an inevitability. 

Though neither of them have brought up the very important question one of them will need to ask for that to happen.

Castiel may be able to say without a shadow of a doubt he’s fallen for Dean, a faceless man has claimed him heart and soul. But marriage? He still isn’t sure and he hates himself for it, because it’s so obvious Dean is more than sure. It makes Castiel wonder if somethings wrong with him, marriage should follow love right? That’s the ‘natural order’ of things, so why is he still hesitating. 

It’s odd he has to keep reminding himself at least some of this hesitancy is normal, it has only been four days for goodness sake. Four days, it feels like much longer. 

Castiel’s shaken out of his tumultuous thoughts by Gabriel smacking the back of his head rather violently, “Hey! What was that for, assbutt!” 

“I called you like fifty times, don’t blame me. So are we doing this or what?” He asks, stuffing another twizzler down his gullet. 

“Yes, let everyone know.” Castiel agrees.

He relayed to Dean how Lisa had been acting since they last spoke on their date earlier that day. Castiel and Dean both agreed it was probably best for him to let her wallow in her own self created hell. So, Castiel hasn’t told her he knows a thing and she’s been spinning her wheels trying to get to him ever since, to no avail. 

Today was also a day of important but boring questions, the ones they skipped on their first date. Dean wants kids but would prefer adoption, he doesn’t want to leave Kansas since that’s where his mom is, and so many other small details that could become larger issues over the course of a long term relationship if not addressed now.

With most of the questions, they aligned perfectly. Castiel also prefers the idea of adoption as opposed to surrogacy. However, there were a few Castiel will have to seriously consider before they make a permanent commitment to one another. He’s never thought of leaving Illinois or leaving Gabriel behind and that’s a huge possibility if he and Dean get married. He completely gets how close Dean is to his mother and brother and would never ask him to relocate, but that doesn’t mean Castiel’s okay with undertaking such a large move himself. Only time will tell. 

His brain helpfully reminds him they have less and less time as they near the one week mark. Maybe talking to Gabriel will help, an odd concept but he’s willing to try. 

“Gabriel?” Castiel speaks up, waiting for his brother to turn around.

“Huh?” Gabriel asks distractedly, rummaging through his drawer for socks. 

“What if Dean wants me to move to Kansas?” He asks, watching Gabriel’s face closely for a reaction. 

“Then move to Kansas?” Gabriel responds, face clouded with confusion. 

“But, what about you?” Castiel asks, feeling like he’s having to state the obvious.

“What about me? I’m a grown man, Cassie,” Gabriel replies, “They made planes for a reason, I’ll visit. Don’t use me as an excuse.” 

The glare Gabriel sets on him says so much more than his words ever could, ‘Stow your shit and actually give this a real chance’ telegraphed in his hazel stare. 

“I love him, Gabe,” Castiel admits his feelings for the first time to his older brother. 

“I know,” Gabriel replies, eyes lighting up in amusement. 

“That doesn’t work that way,” Castiel groans but appreciates the old joke during such a heavy moment. “I…I think I might be ready.”

“About time, Cassafrass!” Gabriel whoops in excitement, “Oooo maybe we should hold off on this slumber party until after you do it, torture her even more,” he suggests, raising an eyebrow in question. 

Castiel only has to think for a moment, “Okay, let’s do it. Tonight you help me mentally prepare, tomorrow I ask Dean Winchester to marry me.”  

Chapter Text

Week One

Day Five

Someone is pounding loudly against the door…no, wait that’s Castiel’s head. He shifts against the hard surface, the floor, pressing against his right hip only to roll over into a sticky wet patch on the rug.  Judging from the sickly sweet smell, it’s most likely Gabriel’s candy contaminated drool. Great. Castiel sits up slowly, rubbing the crust of sleep from his eyes. 

For a moment he doesn’t recall what led him here, then it all comes flooding back in theater quality HD. 

Gabriel insisting on a pre-engagement party, just the two of them. So many shots and even more bad decisions leading to the brothers passing out around 4 AM, he thinks, not even making it to their own beds. When Castiel rolls over to squint at the alarm clock on his nightstand he’s suddenly very much awake. Fuck. 

Castiel slept through his date with Dean. 

This wasn’t just any date, it was meant to be his big proposal and Castiel ruined it by not even showing up. Of course Dean has no clue but Castiel can only imagine what he could be thinking right now after waiting alone for who knows how long. 

Castiel has to make this right. 

“Gabriel,” Castiel nudges his brother but when he doesn’t wake up immediately he gives him a swift kick in the ass, “Gabriel! Wake up, assbutt.” 

“Owww that fucking hurt, just let me sleep it off in peace,” Gabriel whines, rolling over on his side intent on ignoring Castiel. 

“You made me miss my proposal, so no. You’re helping me fix this,” Castiel demands, getting up and rifling through his drawers trying to find something decent to throw on. It’s not like Dean will be able to see him right away but he’d still like to look nice, and they are being filmed almost constantly. 

“Shit,” Gabriel pops up, fully alert now that he realizes the gravity of the situation. 

“Yeah, oh shit,” Castiel deadpans, “Go see if you can find Meg or Balthazar, I don’t want Dean thinking I did this on purpose.” 

He can only imagine the places Dean’s head could have gone. Castiel may have his own issues but Dean’s self esteem is in the toilet, he’ll only blame himself and Castiel can’t allow that. 

“On it,” Gabriel says, leaving the room with a speed no hungover person should possess. 

Castiel’s still stressed but he smiles to himself, thankful to have Gabriel, and his unwavering support, here with him. Even if he was party to the chaos in the first place.

By the time Gabriel returns Castiel’s fully dressed in a dark blue button up and slim fit dark wash jeans. He couldn’t be bothered to try and tame his hair but Gabriel’s always told him people love what he calls ‘sex hair’, Castiel’s not so sure. 

Gabriel wolf whistles as he walks into the room causing Castiel to roll his eyes, but he perks up at his next words. 

“Well, if that drop dead gorgeous piece of man meat I bumped into in the hall doesn’t say yes he’s an idiot. Looking good little bro.” Gabriel says, waggling his eyebrows as he shuts the door behind him.

“I’m not proposing to Balthazar…” Castiel says, his clear confusion evident in his voice. 

“Ohhhh no Cassie, I’m talking about Dean,” he corrects with a smug tone. “Wait you think Bal is hot?” 

It takes Castiel a moment but he finally catches on. He ignores Gabriel’s second statement to address the first, “Dean? Like my Dean? You saw Dean?!” 

“I’m starting to really hate how this is edited. It looks like we made some crazy rash decision without showing the hours we spent in those pods getting to know each other,” Castiel whines, resisting the urge to throw the remote at the tv. 

He’d rather not have to pay for a new one. 

“It’s called reality tv but we all know it’s crazy edited, Casanova,” Gabriel replies with a shrug. “They made me look like a psychotic candy addicted fuck up and you don’t see me complaining.” 

“That’s because you are in fact psychotic and candy addicted. The fuck up part remains to be seen,” Castiel informs Gabriel, dodging the bag of chips aimed at his head. 

“Fuck off and press play,” Gabriel demands, eyeing the bag of chips hungrily. 

Castiel takes pity on him, tossing them back into Gabriel’s grateful clutches and pressing play on the show once again. 

“How ‘bout we take it down a couple notches, okay?” Gabriel says, pushing him to sit down on his bed and taking the seat next to him, “Yes I saw your little deanie weenie.” 

Castiel waits a moment hoping he’ll elaborate but when he doesn’t he rolls his eyes, prompting his brother with a wave of his hand, “And?” 

“And I told him I got you drunk last night and you’d see him tomorrow.” Gabriel relays with a shrug.

“Why tomorrow?” Castiel asks, more than a little disappointed in the delay. 

“Well, Dean must have been pretty upset. He was a little worse for wear to be honest.” Gabriel admits, squeezing Castiel’s hand in apology, “He said his brother’s got him though, it’ll be fine.” 

“Sam? That’s good he sounds very responsible from what Dean’s told me.” Castiel explains, flooded with relief that Dean’s not upset with him specifically and in good hands. ”I just wish we didn’t have to wait…” he admits, trying to push the disappointment to the back of his mind.

“I’m sorry, Cassie. I just wanted you to cut loose a little before everything gets super intense, you know?” Gabriel says, rare contrition written across his face, “I didn’t mean to ruin your plans.”

Castiel can never really stay upset with Gabriel. For all his pranks and inability to stay out of his personal life Gabriel has been his rock for years and Castiel knows he only wants the best for him. 

“It’s okay. I mean it’s not okay but I know you meant well,” Castiel accepts his apology, fully aware he’ll probably do something else within a week but he wouldn’t be Gabriel if he didn’t. “I guess I’ll save this for tomorrow then.” He grumbles, gesturing to the outfit he threw on. 

As Castiel swaps out his neat clothes for something more comfortable he wonders once again what Dean went through before Gabriel found him. Obviously he’s tempted to ask Gabriel what Dean looked like as well, but that would be cheating. Wouldn’t it?

“And before you ask I’m not telling you a damn thing, just know you won’t be disappointed,” Gabriel winks, leaving the room in search of his next victim more than likely. 

The words remind him of Meg’s earlier in the week when she was acting oddly, it sends his mind on a journey wondering just what Dean looks like. It’s something he hadn’t considered in depth until they both brought it up. He and Dean never really exchanged descriptions, both wanting to be surprised in the end.

“Fine,” Castiel huffs in frustration, unwilling to admit out loud his brother is probably right. 

One more day.  

Castiel pulls a well worn grey shirt over his head and shimmies into a pair of black joggers. As he’s pulling socks over his feet he hears whispered voices near his door. Castiel’s never been much of a snoop but he’s curious. He strains to hear the voices a bit clearer, moving closer to the doorway but ensuring he’s still got the cover of the half closed door to hide him from view. When he recognizes Lisa’s voice he doesn’t feel half as guilty for listening in. 

“…just think I’d be better off choosing Dean, you know?” Lisa says in a hushed tone. 

Castiel wonders who she’s speaking with as he silently groans. Here she goes again with the lies. The only solace Castiel gets in the moment is knowing this is all being filmed, he doesn’t have to embarrass her when she’s doing it all on her own. Eventually, for the world to see. 

As Gabriel always says, you play stupid games you win stupid prizes. And clearly Lisa lacks the basic intelligence to read the room on this one, no one is buying her bullshit anymore. 

“I didn’t even know you two were still seeing each other…” A voice he recognizes as Kaia’s mumbles suspiciously. 

“Oh yeah we definitely are,” Lisa assures, unaware her voice cracks tellingly with her deceitful answer, “it’s just I’m not sure about that huge age difference with Benny, I mean ten years is a big deal. Dean’s only two years younger, I feel like such a desperate cougar with Benny sometimes…” Lisa admits, and that’s the only time Castiel’s heard her sound so genuine. This must be a real concern for her. 

“Weren’t you seeing Donna too? You two were the same age…” Kaia helpfully points out. “And Benny’s also seeing Michael so you never know you may not have to make a decision if he chooses him instead of you.” 

Castiel silently applauds Kaia’s slight dig at Lisa assuming Benny would automatically choose her. 

“Yeah but we had nothing in common…I told her it would probably be better if she focused on Jody. They’re a good match.” Lisa responds, with that same change in tone that signals a blatant lie. “Plus Benny said Michael won’t shut up about Alfie so I think that’s pretty much over.” 

Castiel fully believes Lisa’s lying about Donna but he has very little proof. Having met Jody and hearing about Donna through them, Donna and Jody were smitten almost since day one, much like he and Dean, and he’s fairly certain Donna was the one who let Lisa down easy. Lisa’s almost pathological at this point. The voices sound closer so he ducks further behind the door to avoid detection. Castiel feels stupid but he has to know how this conversation ends. 

“Well when you know you know I guess,” Kaia chuckles nervously, clearly trying to find a way to change the subject, “I’m leaning more towards Claire but I’m not sure if Claire’s sure about me…” 

“Ohhhh sorry to hear that hon, but what do you think. Benny or Dean?” Lisa asks, breezing right past Kaia’s problems and back to her own. Not surprising. 

“…I think this is a decision only you can make, Lisa. I’m gonna go find Dorothy.” Kaia replies, walking away with an audible swish of pants. 

“What a bitch,” Lisa snorts to herself in a huff. 

Castiel waits until he hears a second pair of feet padding across the carpet in the opposite direction, peeking out into the hall to make sure the coast is clear. What is he going to do? 

As Castiel steps out of the room headed towards the kitchen his mind latches on to one final solution. One act that will clear up any doubts Dean may still harbor that he is wanted and loved, and firmly tell Lisa that she needs to back the fuck off. Castiel’s never been one to be dangerously possessive but in this instance he feels that unfamiliar thrum of mineminemine in the back of his head and deep in his heart. 

Distantly, Castiel feels bad for Benny as well. He’s been a good friend to Dean and Castiel remembers him briefly from the pods as a nice guy, just not his type. He deserves much better than Lisa, but that’s not his decision to make. 

Castiel changes course at the last minute, stepping out into the hall in search of Balthazar or Meg. Screw waiting until tomorrow, he’s proposing to Dean today if it’s the last thing he does. 

“Well aren’t you just full of surprises and drama, Cassie,” Gabriel snorts, downing the last of whatever drink he mixed up this time. 

Castiel barks out a rare full body laugh, “Can you blame me?” He finally sputters out through the laughter, lifting an eyebrow in question once the last lingering chuckles have finally fled. 

Gabriel pretends to think for a moment, tapping his finger on his chin before blurting out, “Hell no.” 

It sends them both into a fit of giggles, though they’d never admit it to anyone. The brothers wait until their laughter has died down again before pressing play. On the screen, Castiel marches down the hall on his way to claim his man, looking every inch like an avenging angel ready to wage war. 

___________________________

Five days. It’s only been five days and Dean already knows who he wants to be his husband. Dean’s had meals in his refrigerator longer than that, it’s fucking crazy is what it is. But he loves Castiel, he can’t help it. 

He’s supposed to see Cas this morning and to say he’s excited would be a massive understatement. It’s so bad Dean almost forgot to eat breakfast, quiche as Sam insists he call it. It’s just breakfast pie to Dean. Dean almost forgot to eat pie. But, Sammy manages to load some onto a plate for him as he’s running out the door. He shovels the pie into his mouth quickly as he walks ignoring the blatant choking hazard he’s creating, making it to the pod door in record time. 

Dean steps in and he’s met with silence. It’s odd because Cas usually makes it way before Dean and today he definitely would have gotten here first since Dean was running late. He sits down with plans to finish the last of his breakfast as he waits. 

Ten minutes later he’s getting concerned.

Twenty minutes and he starts to wonder if something happened to Cas. 

As he’s walking back to his room thirty minutes later his mood is in the toilet. Cas must have finally figured out he can do better. More than likely he’s well on his way back home and as far away from Dean as he can get. The sharp pain in his chest increases to a stabbing throb, now accompanied by a growing pit in his stomach. 

Dean’s about halfway through packing when Sam finds him in their room. 

“Uhhh, what are you doing?” Sam asks curiously, pausing at the door as though he’s afraid to come into the room and spook Dean. 

“Packing, what’s it look like?” Dean grumbles in annoyance. 

“I thought you just came from talking to Cas?” Sam responds, leaning against the doorframe. 

“Nope, never showed,” Dean replies, not intending on elaborating. 

“Well did you ask Bal to see why?” Sam rolls his eyes, crossing his arms over his chest. 

“What’s the point? Clearly Cas doesn’t wanna waste his time with me anymore. I’m going home,” Dean says, pulling handfuls of clothes out of the dresser and dumping them on the bed. 

“No!” Sam yells, lowering his voice and moving towards Dean. He hates how Sam’s holding his hands up like he’s trying to calm a skittish animal. “Let’s talk this through first, okay?” He requests.

“For what? It’s very clear what he wants and it ain’t me,” Dean responds, continuing to shove his clothes into his duffel bag. He knows they’ll come out wrinkled but he could care less at the moment. Dean needs to get as far away from here as he can, as far away from any memories of Cas as possible. 

“Just…just take a pause and talk to me. Come on Dean, please?” Sam asks, throwing every ounce of himself into the biggest puppy dog eyes Dean’s seen since Sam asked him if he could borrow the Impala for a date back in high school. Shit. 

“Fine, what do you wanna talk about?” Dean asks, reluctantly abandoning packing and sitting on the bed. 

Sam doesn’t respond right away, seemingly trying to make a decision in his head. Dean knows he must have figured it out when he finally speaks, “I’ll tell you about him, but I’m not saying who he is just yet…”

Dean immediately knows who ‘he’ is referring to but his excitement at finally getting something out of his little brother is diminished by the throbbing reminder in his chest of his most recent break up. 

Sam ignores his non response and just keeps talking, “You know at first I was seeing Jody too but the way Donna talks about them, I’m kinda glad that we didn’t click as well as we thought we would. And you know what happened with Sarah,” Sam rolls his eyes but there isn’t as much hurt there, it makes Dean happy despite his own circumstances, “so it’s just me and him now.” 

“I don’t get a name? This conversation is gonna be kinda weird then…” Dean points out, trying to get Sam to give in. He wouldn’t be an older brother if he didn’t try. 

Sam smiles, clearly glad Dean’s at least participating in the conversation, “Fine, I’ll give him a code name. Uhmmmm, how about Shortstack?” 

“Unhelpful, almost every guy here is shorter than you, ya giant,” Dean playfully snarks. 

Sam chuckles lightly, “It’s not supposed to be helpful, now do you wanna hear about Shortstack or not?” 

“Fine,” Dean rolls his eyes in mock annoyance, miming zipping his lips closed. 

“Alright, he’s an author. He’s older but not by a lot. We’re probably complete opposites in a ton of ways but he brings out another side of me I thought I’d lost, you know?”

“So basically what I’ve been trying to do for years, get that stick outta your ass?” Dean chuckles, he doesn’t care how it was done it’s just nice to see Sammy happy for once. 

Sammy throws him the bitchface to end all bitchfaces before his features morph into a mischievous smile, “You know what, you’d probably get along really well, Dean.” 

When he doesn’t elaborate Dean gets a little nervous, Sam did just admit this guys got him feeling a way he hasn’t felt in years. Among other things, Sammy used to be quite the little prankster in high school. Mary forced the boys to quit Dean’s senior year. Their year long prank war had escalated to Sammy putting blue dye in Dean’s face wash, temporarily turning him into a damn Smurf. Mary stepped in to avoid Dean committing actual bodily harm to Sam and they haven’t pranked each other since. 

“I forgot how shady you were being back then,” Dean shakes his head, laughing to himself. 

Sam doesn’t respond beyond a small smirk, at this point they both know why and there’s no point rehashing it now.

Over the next thirty minutes Sam proceeds to inform Dean of all the relationships that have ended and who he thinks is headed towards a proposal. Dean didn’t even know half of what Sammy mentions and he begins to realize while Dean thought he was getting to know everyone, he really talks to the same four or five people everyday. 

“How do you know all this?” Dean interjects, face wrinkling up in confusion. 

“I actually talk to people, you should try it sometime,” Sam deadpans. 

“Hey! I talk…” Dean grumbles indignantly. 

“Me and Benny don’t count, Dean,” Sam responds going full bitchface. 

“I talk to Cas just fine…” he mumbles sullenly.

And now he’s back to moping. 

“I’m gonna take a walk,” Dean says before hopping up without another word, walking towards the door. 

“Just don’t do anything rash without telling me first, okay?” Sam asks, pleadingly. 

Dean has no clue why this is so important to Sam but he promises before leaving. He just needs some space to think. 

Dean makes it about halfway down the outer corridor before he quite literally runs into another man walking in the opposite direction. 

Straightening up, Dean pats the guy on the shoulder making sure he’s okay, “Sorry, dude. I didn’t see you. Name’s Dean.” 

The shorter man’s hazel eyes twinkle but the look is gone before Dean can place it, “Gabriel, nice to meet the man my little bro won’t shut up about.” 

Gabriel sticks his hand out but Dean’s a little too shocked to take it. He grabs Dean’s hand for him, shaking it then dropping it with an over-exaggerated pat. 

“Earth to Dean, anybody home?” Gabriel asks playfully. 

Dean successfully shakes himself out of it and responds, “You’re Cas’ brother?”

“The one and only, buckaroo,” Gabriel responds, waggling his eyebrows. 

Suddenly Dean’s flooded with the feelings of anger and inadequacy he’d squashed down from earlier, “Would you care to explain why he fucking ghosted me this morning?” 

“Whoa whoa whoa, Deano. Calm it down, that was entirely my fault,” Gabriel says. 

When he doesn’t elaborate Dean gives him a pointed glare. His patience is running thin and he’d like some answers. 

“I may have possibly gotten Cassie very drunk last night and he may have potentially just woken up,” Gabriel admits, the smirk replaced on his face by clear regret. 

Dean’s familiar with it himself, the feeling an older brother has to shoulder when he lets his younger brother down. 

“So he didn’t ditch me and go back home?” Dean asks timidly, suddenly unsure of how to act with this new information. He’d been geared up to be angry and alone but now it seems it was all a misunderstanding, Dean feels awkward in the aftermath. 

“That’s what you thought? God no, Cassie’s practically obsessed with you Deanaroonie. Don’t think you’re getting rid of him that easy,” Gabriel admits, shaking his head with a fond smile. 

Instantly Dean’s heart warms at the confirmation that Cas didn’t, and has no future plans, to leave him. 

“O-okay,” Dean says with a nod of acceptance. The voice in the back of his head isn’t convinced of Cas’ devotion but Gabriel’s his brother, he’d know better than anyone how Cas truly feels. Right?

“Listen, Cas is a little hungover and you…don’t look so hot, not gonna lie. How about you two see each other tomorrow and talk this out?” Gabriel offers, leading Dean back to the door he just walked out of. It’s sort of refreshing to hear that blunt honesty Cas has coming from his brother, like confirmation this is all really happening. Cas isn’t gone, just hungover and they can see each other tomorrow. “You’ve got a brother right?”

“Yeah,” Dean responds, glad to hear Cas has been sharing details about Dean with his brother. 

“Go hang out with him, I’ll take care of Cassie. It’s gonna be fine, scouts honor,” Gabriel promises, holding up the peace sign. 

“You weren’t really a scout were you?” Dean asks, shaking his head in amusement.

“Hell no,” Gabriel answers with a chuckle, “But, I got this. I’ve been taking care of Cassie for years.” 

Dean knows that look, he’s pretty sure he and Gabe probably have a lot more in common than most would think. He looks forward to the possibility of getting to know Gabe outside of the experiment, if Cas chooses to propose of course. 

“Okay,” Dean agrees, he waves goodbye to Gabe as he walks back inside to locate Sam. Now that he has some answers, brotherly bonding time doesn’t sound half bad. 

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

Dean’s patience is rewarded a few hours later when Bal comes to get him, Cas needs to see him in the pods right away. 

______________________________

Castiel is a nervous wreck, most of the bravado from earlier having long fled. He never thought he’d make it this far, but he did. And now Castiel’s waiting with heavy anticipation for Dean to enter the opposite pod. Waiting to propose to the love of his life. God, this is nuts. He only met Dean five days ago, another version of Castiel would think he’s lost his mind. But, he and Dean share something special and the stirrings of love he felt on day two have grown into a smoldering inferno inside his heart, his mind, his very soul. Castiel would never choose to walk another day in this life without Dean Winchester by his side. 

So Castiel waits, to offer all he has to this man. He waits patiently to give away his heart for what he hopes is the last time. For Dean to keep and hold safe with him always. 

When he hears the pod door open through the dividing wall his heart begins a frantic rhythm in his chest and his nerves spike tremendously. He can do this. 

“Hello, Dean. I know we’d decided to meet up tomorrow but I needed to see you today,” Castiel explains, “Are you sitting down or standing?” He asks tentatively after giving Dean a moment to close the door.

“I’m sitting down,” Dean responds, his voice wavers slightly like he’s still unsure and it kills him to think he put any doubt in Dean’s mind. 

“Do you want to approach the wall?” Castiel asks, hoping Dean can read in his tone this is a good thing and nothing to be worried about. 

“Sure, approaching the wall…” Dean says nervously. 

Now or never. 

Castiel gets down on one knee, immediately the moment hits him hard. He blows out a huff of air,  settling into it. Castiel’s not running.  

“Dean Eric Winchester, I feel so blessed to have had you come into my life. I love you so much which is nuts to say but so…so true, and I want to spend the rest of my life with you. Will you marry me?” 

Short, sweet, and to the point just like he practiced with Gabriel. Proposing to his brother over and over was a little weird, but helpful. 

“Cas,” Dean says, blowing out a whoosh of air, “Yes. Yes I’ll marry you, yes I’ll be your husband. Yes, of course yes, it’s always gonna be a yes if it’s you.” 

Castiel can hear him break down, in happy tears hopefully. 

“Holy fuck, we’re engaged!” Dean whoops from the other side of the wall. 

“We’re engaged,” Cas agrees, body buzzing once again but this time with excitement not nerves. 

“You’re so fucking amazing babe, I don’t need to see you to say that,” Dean responds, through his tears. 

Castiel reaches out, running his hand down the wall in anticipation of being able to say these words again while staring deeply into each others eyes.

“You’re my future husband,” Dean says, like it’s just hitting him now. 

“You’re my future husband,” Castiel replies through a smile, “God, that should feel weird to say but it doesn’t…it really really doesn’t.” 

It feels like all the ill fitting pieces of his life are finally falling into place, like the beginning of something much bigger than the both of them. 

He can’t wait.

______________________________

“Sooo, is this the part where I finally get to see you?” Dean asks slyly. He’s more than ready to put a face to the man he fell so easily in love with. It’s insane but he’s done fighting this. 

The sadness that dogged him all day was banished as soon as Cas uttered those four words, will you marry me. 

“Considering I’ve now had two different people tell me how gorgeous you are, I’m very ready Dean,” Castiel replies in that growl of a voice. 

Dean doesn’t have a response to that, he’d rather get this show on the road, “O-okay. I’ll see you in a sec.” 

“See you very soon, Dean,” Castiel responds. 

Dean can hear the smile in his voice and it makes him melt, just a little. 

Dean steps back into the hall and he’s met by an unusually chipper Bal. 

“You knew didn’t you?” He asks mock accusingly, but his effervescent smile won’t be budged. Besides, Dean wouldn’t have wanted that particular surprise ruined. 

It was perfect. Fucking insane, but so perfect. 

“I may have known, his brother and I had a long talk about Cassie this morning,” Bal admits, attempting to hold an apologetic look but a mischievous grin quickly takes its place. 

“Cassie?” Dean asks, a little confused. He thought only Cas’ brother called him that. 

“Family nickname. So I guess that means I’m family now, huh?” Bal jokes as he starts to push Dean towards a set of double doors at the end of another hall. “We’re practically brother in laws at this point, Deano.” 

“Right…” Dean responds, rolling his eyes playfully. 

Honestly Bal isn’t wrong, they’ve created their own found family during just the first week here. Charlie and Jo are like family already but, even if it’s slightly against his will, he loves them all the same. Benny’s damn near his new best friend after Sammy of course, even Claire and Alfie are growing on him. He has no doubts in his mind about keeping in contact with almost everyone after the cameras are gone and they go back to reality.  

“Okay here’s how this part will go. Those doors over there will open, Cassie is standing right on the other side in a separate room waiting for you. All we ask is you keep it as PG as you can,” Bal relays with a smirk.

He shuts the opposite door behind him leaving Dean standing alone in another room. Dean eyes the round glass doors in front of him, suddenly nervous Cas won’t like what he sees. He knows it’s stupid but after the day he’s had it’s harder to convince himself it isn’t true. 

The truth is, Cas is absolutely the perfect match for him. If Dean ordered a husband, he’s everything he’d ask for and more. Dean walked into this experiment with plans to run as soon as he could, instead he’s waiting to run to the man he now loves with everything he has. Their connection was stronger than his desire to prove Sammy wrong about this whole thing, to avoid love at all costs in a sad attempt not to be hurt again. But, it managed to find him anyway and he can’t find it in himself to regret sticking around this time. It may be sappy, but so far letting this side out more has only helped him so fuck it. 

Dean does a quick check, so glad he listened to Sam when he said he should dress up a bit. Although, now he wonders if it’s because Sam knew too. Hmmmm. His hunter green button up was good enough for him even though Sammy was pushing for something fancier like a suit. That wouldn’t really be Dean and he only brought the damn thing because production insisted. Nope, a button up and jeans are just fine. 

Dean just hopes Cas’ expectations aren’t let down, especially after hearing what other people have been telling him. He only has a moment to consider who the gossipers could be before the glass doors begin to slide open. 

This is it. 

The doors slide open just enough for him to catch a shock of dark hair and luminous blue eyes before they’re literally running to each other. Cas pulls him into his arms and he smells good. Another check mark in the yes column for Dean, he could burrow into that smell and never want to leave, shit. Once he’s done salivating over his fiancé’s smell he notices how solid Cas is. Being wrapped up in Cas’ arms, against his warm body feels amazing. It feels safe, even though technically Dean’s the taller one. It’s all a little overwhelming but as soon as he hears Cas’ voice, in person and not through a wall for once, everything snaps back into place. 

“Hello, Dean,” Cas rumbles lowly. Dean can feel his warm breath against the shell of his ear, it sends a shiver through his body he hopes Cas didn’t notice but the small chuckle reverberating through his chest tells Dean he did. Oh well. 

“H-hey, Cas,” Dean manages to reply, truly feeling the gravity of this moment for the first time. If it weren’t for the cameras he would deny until the day he croaks that he’s crying again. “I never wanna let you go.” The admission whispered into Cas’ mango scented hair. 

“Then don’t,” Cas replies matter of factly. It’s such a Cas answer that Dean breaks out into a watery laugh, shifting the tension of the moment to the side. 

Cas is the first to pull away but Dean doesn’t take it personally. It’s clear he just wanted to get a better look at Dean as his eyes sweep over him from head to toe. Dean has no issue, he’s doing the same. The way Cas’ dark blue button down hugs his body, the fit of his jeans over what have to be runners thighs, his wayward sex hair is already driving Dean wild. They lock eyes again and Dean wonders if he’ll ever get used to Cas’ crystalline blues, practically glowing as they fix him in an intense stare. 

Dean’s completely lost in those orbs when Cas finally speaks again, “You’re absolutely stunning, Dean.” 

Dean blushes at the compliment, not completely comfortable in receiving rather than giving but he manages a response, “Thanks but I’m not nearly as gorgeous as you. I mean you could be a fucking model.” Cas is caring, kind, and attractive as hell. If Dean doesn’t fuck this up he’s won the fucking lottery. 

Dean considers for a moment, he’s wanted to do this one thing since Cas walked out but he also wanted to ask first. “Can I…can I kiss you, Cas?” 

Cas looks like he wants to argue Dean’s point regarding his looks but instead his lips quirk up into a small smile as he nods his consent, “I appreciate you asking but you never have to ask, Dean. Can I do one thing first?” 

“Sure, Cas,” Dean responds, unsure of what would be more important than getting his lips on Cas’ plush pink mouth for the very first time. Until Cas gets down on one knee. 

“Dean, will you still marry me?” Cas asks, holding out a ring box with a simple band inside. 

Staring directly into those eyes and seeing every ounce of love he’s feeling reflected back at him, there’s only one answer Dean can give, “Yes.” 

Dean holds out his shaky left hand allowing Cas to slide the ring onto his finger. Irrationally Dean wishes he had something for Cas as well and makes a mental note to ask Bal about that later. Right now he’s too busy pulling Cas up from the floor and into his arms, sliding his hands into his hair with a slight grip and enjoying the soft press of Cas’ lips against his own. The first kiss is chaste and full of the love they’ve now fully expressed to one another. The ones that follow are leading down the path Bal asked he stay away from, but he can’t find it in himself to care. Dean’s enjoying the firm press of Cas’ body against his, the twining of Cas’ arms around his waist, and the faint hint of growing hardness against Dean’s thigh before reality comes crashing back in. They definitely can’t do this here. Dean reluctantly pulls back, slowing down to the last slow kiss. He can’t resist a final sweep of his tongue and nip to Cas’ bottom lip, drawing a low growl from his fiancé that turns into a heated chuckle. Dean looks at him, conveying a silent promise to get back to that another time. They part but not far, Dean rests his forehead against Cas’, soaking up the unreal joy he’s feeling right now. 

“How did I get so lucky?” Cas breathes out in the space between them. 

“You?,” Dean blows out a disbelieving puff of air. Cas looks like a damn Disney prince and though he may struggle sometimes socially, he’s everything Dean’s ever dreamed of. There’s no way Cas got the better end of this deal. 

“I’m going to take care of you, you’re safe with me,” Cas promises, hands running slowly up and down Dean’s back. 

“I…I know.” 

It’s fucking scary but it’s true. Dean’s never been able to be this open with someone in a relationship and trust that they won’t run away screaming in the end. Cas knows everything there is to know about him, even shit he’s never told Sammy. After hearing it all, Cas is still standing here, proposing a lifetime together. The love Cas holds for Dean remains, steadfast and true. So even though his intrusive thoughts want to tell him it’s all a lie. That they’re moving too fast. That he’ll fuck it up before he knows it. That he isn’t worthy of Cas’ love. Dean tells Cas he knows, because Cas will love him even on the days Dean finds it hard to love himself. 

And that makes all the difference. 

Chapter Text

Week One

Day Five

In their excitement, both Dean and Castiel managed to forget they would end up being one of the first couples to make it to a proposal. That fact smacks Castiel in the face after a lingering, and slightly heated, goodbye to Dean when he walks back into his shared space with the other cast members. 

“Congratulations!” Gabriel yells out, spraying Castiel with hot pink silly string as the words are echoed by the rest of the group. 

Kaia snickers as she pulls a few errant pieces from his hair, it’s going to take forever to wash that out. Castiel makes a mental note to hunt down whoever sourced Gabriel with it. His brother knows the texture and smell of that stuff is off-putting to say the least, so of course he’d spray Castiel down as soon as he walks through the door. 

“Thank you everyone,” Castiel nods politely, already planning his exit from what he can see is an impromptu gathering to celebrate. This isn’t quite what he imagined when planning with Gabriel and he isn’t sure he likes all the attention focused on him like this. Thankfully his concerns are quickly put to rest. 

“I know we planned this last night, but while you and Dean were busy making things official so were Jody and Gordon,” Gabriel explains, clearly having seen the slight panic in Castiel’s eyes. Sure he’ll prank him almost constantly, but at the first signs of real panic Gabriel knows how to ease his worry in seconds. 

“That’s wonderful. Congratulations to you both,” Castiel responds with a genuine smile, relieved he won’t be the center of attention. “I’ll just change out of this since Gabriel insists on being the most annoying person in the room. I’ll be right back.” 

With that, Castiel makes his way back to their room with the sounds of Gabriel’s boisterous laughter fading as he walks further down the hall. Last he spoke with Gordon he managed to piece together with his short answers that he had taken a liking to Bela and Jody only has eyes for Donna just as he suspected. Briefly, as he swaps his clothes back out for his joggers and shirt he wonders where Lisa is and how she’s taking this. With an amused huff he decides he really doesn’t give a shit, padding back down the hall to their shared engagement party. 

“Ayyyyy, there’s my baby bro,” Gabriel shouts when he sees Castiel coming back out, “Jody was just about to tell us how they proposed.” 

Castiel accepts the mystery shot Gabriel passes to him, downing it quickly and grimacing at the slight burn as it goes down. 

“What did I just drink?” He asks belatedly, realizing he really should have checked beforehand. Gabriel is a lot of things but a trained mixologist is not one of them. 

“Shhh don’t worry about it just listen,” Gabriel hushes him. 

Choosing to believe he wouldn’t be poisoned by his own brother, Castiel turns his full attention to Jody. 

“There really isn’t much to tell, it was simple and sweet. Got down on one knee and just asked her, you know? I don’t know about Castiel or Gordon but the real big moment was seeing each other for the first time.” Jody shares, a warm smile spreading on their face. “She’s so beautiful…” Jody trails off, overwhelmed by the memory. 

Castiel nods in agreement, he can definitely relate. Seeing Dean for the first time was a revelation to say the least. He had gotten used to hearing the dulcet tones of Dean’s voice through the panel in the pods, but seeing Dean in the flesh was definitely worth the wait. He barely got a glimpse of moss green eyes, sandy brown hair, and a pair of exquisite bow legs before he and Dean collided. But when he managed to take in the full picture, Dean is nothing short of a work of art. Freckles smatter across his skin like constellations and Castiel wonders just how much of Dean they cover. 

Castiel meant it, he’s not sure how he got so lucky but he won’t question it. 

Castiel’s mind drifts briefly back to the sensation of having Dean wrapped in his arms, his muscular body flush against his own, Dean’s hands gripping his hair, Dean’s mouth exploring Castiel’s quite thoroughly. Castiel has to shake himself out of his thoughts before they dip too far down that path. But he couldn’t miss the glint in Dean’s eyes, finding himself shifting in anticipation for the implication in that heated viridescent gaze. 

They spoke of promises yet fulfilled, of desires yet to be expressed. 

Castiel’s never felt this much physical attraction so quickly for someone he just met. Usually it takes months of getting to know someone, warming up to them and building that level of trust. But, this experience has jumpstarted that process by leaps and bounds, avoiding what killed the few prior love interests he’s had in his life. 

The ‘you’re just too blunt’, or ‘you don’t get anything do you?, his personal favorite ‘is your face just stuck that way?’, or the worst ‘you really do suck the joy out of the room, don’t you?’. 

Castiel just needed someone who wasn’t afraid to learn how to love him, ‘quirks’ and all. 

He wrestles his focus back to the conversation at hand, only slightly surprised to see Gordon nodding along with him, and shockingly, smiling as well. A man of few words but obviously he does have strong feelings for Bela, Castiel’s happy for him. 

Jody passes the proverbial torch to him, prompting Castiel to share he and Dean’s engagement experience. 

“I was supposed to propose this morning, Gabriel ruined that,” Castiel explains, shooting a playful glare Gabriel’s way, “But it worked out in the end. I won’t bore you with every single detail, we’re happy and that’s all that matters.” 

Gabriel rolls his eyes but doesn’t push Castiel to share more. Instead he mouths ‘later’, he isn’t going to let Castiel off that easy. 

It’s Gordon’s turn but before he can speak a word Lisa pipes up from the corner. Castiel’s not sure how he missed her slipping in but she seems to have something to say. Gordon indicates his willingness to allow the interruption so they all turn their attention her way. 

“First, I want to congratulate the three of you. It’s so exciting, right?” Lisa asks, a slight slurring to her speech probably aided by the half full wine bottle perched next to her and the already half empty glass in her hand. If he’s learned one thing in the last week, wine drunk Lisa is meaner than a cornered cat. This should get interesting. “I hope you don’t mind me joining the party, though.” She holds up her hand, wiggling her ring finger letting the stone glint in the low lights of the living room. 

Kaia catches his eye from the other side of the room and he shakes his head minutely. He meant it when he said he’s letting Lisa hang herself at this point. In fact, he’s the first to congratulate her although the words taste like battery acid as they fall from his lips, “Congratulations, I’m happy for you.” He says, trying for a smile but it feels like more of a grimace.

Gabriel’s audible snort and Dorothy’s smirk tell him he wasn’t as successful at sounding genuine this time around. Oh well. 

“Thanks, Cas,” Lisa replies, drawling out Dean’s nickname for him. It feels like a violation hearing it in her alcohol soaked voice, “I’m glad Dean had someone that was still interested in him. After Benny proposed I was worried he’d get sent home, you know? Dean’s a great guy, you deserve each other.” 

The words drip from her mouth like poison, meant to kill. Sharp barbs delivered in a cotton candy tone while her face twists with rage. She’s pissed, but Castiel’s immune to her weak attempts at riling him up. 

“Oh hohoho the snark is strong with this one tonight,” Gabriel snorts into his glass, eyes alight with mischief as they shift between Castiel and Lisa. 

Gabriel’s enjoying this for now, but there’s a sharpness hidden beneath the levity, he’ll step in if he’s needed. 

“That’s funny because we’re both dating Charlie,” Dorothy speaks up, nodding in Stevie’s direction, “And she said Dean dumped you like three days ago,” Dorothy reveals, eyebrow raised almost daring Lisa to contradict her. 

Lisa’s eyes go wide at the revelation as she freezes like a deer in headlights, glass halfway to her lips. He can practically see the wheels begin spinning as Lisa tries to find her way out of this one. 

“No…” Lisa begins before being cut off.

“Yes, I believe Dorothy’s right. Alfie and Benny mentioned it as well,” Michael chimes in helpfully. “I’m not usually one for gossip but…” he shrugs, letting the implications of his unfinished sentence reverberate in the room. 

“No! That’s not…” She tries again. 

“Can’t name my sources but I was told the same,” Gabriel chimes in, winking at Castiel. 

Castiel still hasn’t been able to get a word out of Gabriel on just who he’s seeing. It’s frustrating but he’s more entertained by the drama unfolding before him, Castiel can worry about Gabriel’s secrets later. Slowly everyone in the room pipes in until there’s a general agreement that Lisa hasn’t spoken to Dean in at least three days, if not more. 

Lisa’s practically gone feral by this point, throwing out a depressing attempt at damage control, “I broke things off with Dean, today! I don’t know why everyone’s lying but that’s the truth,” She screeches before taking a few ragged deep breaths, closing her eyes and seemingly trying to calm down. Once she pops them back open she seems outwardly calmer but there’s still ten flavors of crazy peeking out from below the surface. “Anyway that’s not even what I wanted to talk about, aren’t we telling engagement stories?” 

Everyone glances at Castiel to see how he feels and honestly this whole thing has gone so far off the rails there’s probably no saving it. So he shrugs, accepting another shot from Gabriel. It isn’t much better than the first but he has a feeling he’d rather be a little fuzzy for what’s to come. 

“Go ahead, your highness,” Stevie chimes in, the sarcasm going right over Lisa’s head. 

“Thank you, Stevie. At least one of you gives a shit,” Lisa rolls her eyes dramatically, “It was so amazing…”

“Hold up, on second thought I don’t give a shit,” Stevie cuts in, causing everyone to break out in raucous laughter including some of the crew. “Anyone wanna move this party somewhere less…desperate and sad?” She asks, gesturing in Lisa’s general direction. 

“Yes, please,” Jody chimes in, grabbing their drink and getting up quickly from the couch. 

“I can’t believe they left the crew laughing in there, guess they hated her just as much as we did,” Gabriel points out with a chuckle. 

“She was nuts, only cared about herself, and treated the crew like her own personal servants. Of course they hated her,” Castiel points out, lips curled up in a slight smirk. 

“Yeah, guess you’re right. Think she’s coming today?” Gabriel asks, the majority of his focus on unwrapping yet another roll of Smarties.

“God I hope not,” Castiel responds, smirk turning into a grimace as he steals the remote back and presses play.

Dorothy and Kaia follow suit and soon they’re all filing out of the living room, ending up in Gabriel and Castiel’s room of course. Castiel’s riding high on a fluffy cloud of alcohol and happiness. He proposed to Dean, Dean said yes, his new friends had his back against Lisa, and now all her lies have been exposed. 

Life is good. 

______________________________

Dean’s night goes better, but not by much. 

When he walks in, still in a daze from seeing, feeling, kissing Cas for the first time to find everyone seemingly in the middle of an all out party. 

“Did I miss something?” He asks, raising an eyebrow in question. 

“Nope, just waiting for our last guest of honor,” Charlie chuckles, pulling Dean further into the living room. 

“Guest of honor?” Dean asks, brows scrunching in confusion. 

“You’re not the only engaged fella now, brotha,” Benny responds, slapping Dean on the back in greeting. 

Dean finally notices how much broader Benny’s smile is, Donna can’t stop blushing, and Bela showing off a sparkly new ring on the other side of the room clues him in fully. 

“No way, you guys too?” Dean asks, mood brightening even more than he thought was possible. “I got sneak attacked thanks to Balth and I think Sammy over there.”

Sam tries to duck unsuccessfully behind Alfie, it’s funny enough to distract Dean from his intentions on whacking Sammy for tricking him. He better be glad it was for a good reason otherwise he’d be at the top of Dean’s shit list. Still, he gives him his best Dean Winchester glare, better to put the fear of god in him now whether he’s planning to act on it or not. 

Meddling little brothers can be such a pain in the ass. 

“Gordon finally came to his senses, more like,” Bela chimes in from the couch, her smile can’t be dimmed. 

“I think I stunned Lisa so much she forgot to say yes,” Benny admits, he explains further after Dean shoots him a confused look, “I did the whole you’re the love of my life will you marry me thing and she didn’t say a word.”

“Nothing?” Charlie asks, eyes gone wide in shock. 

“Crickets, finally I asked if she was still there. It was kinda awkward really,” Benny continues, slightly blushing in embarrassment and it breaks Dean’s heart to see. 

Dean wishes Benny would’ve cut Lisa loose before now, maybe he would’ve been sent home but it would be better than watching her drain his self confidence. She’s a truly toxic woman and Dean’s glad he let her go in the beginning, now if he could only get her to leave Cas alone. He hopes she isn’t being too much of a bitch to Cas since she got a ring out of someone finally. 

“Anyway, I asked if she was still there and she blurted out ‘yes’ so I think maybe she just needed a second,” Benny finishes, probably unaware of how much it sounds like he’s trying to convince himself not them. 

Making sure Alfie isn’t in hearing distance, Dean pulls Benny to the side to ask the same question he’s been asking since yesterday, “Are you sure you did the right thing telling Michael to choose Alfie?” 

Benny scratches his scruff, thinking over the question for what probably feels like the millionth time. “Yeah…Michael’s kinda closed off but it was obvious he wasn’t nearly as into me as I was him. I think he and Alfie are probably better off together, I just don’t get why he hasn’t told Alfie already,” Benny shakes his head and Dean couldn’t agree more. Why make him wait? Benny continues, "You on the other hand, I’ll regret ’til the day I die.” He says with a saucy wink and a twinkle in his eye. 

Dean accepts the now familiar answer without a fuss and laughs at Benny’s come on. His friend knows he doesn’t stand a chance with Cas around. At least he hopes he knows. It’s only been a week but Charlie’s already calling them relationship goals, whatever that means. 

The men gravitate to Bela over on the couch, taking drinks from Charlie on the way. Normally Dean’s more of a whiskey guy, not whatever this is, but he accepts the brightly colored shot without complaint. 

“Now that everyone’s joined the party, go on,” Donna prompts Bela with a wave of her hand, already very tipsy. Such a lightweight. 

Bela pretends to be annoyed at the interruption before she continues, “As I was saying, Gordon doesn’t say much. I’m sure some of you know what I mean,” She lets out a lilting giggle as a few nod their heads around the room. 

Dean for one is glad there’s another side to Gordon Bela seems to have found, because the man he met was odd to say the least. He guesses there’s someone out there for everyone. 

“He’s different once he opens up, you know,” Bela shares with a nod of her head, “But he came to the point pretty quickly and obviously I said yes. He was everything I’d thought he’d be in person; strong, handsome, and not afraid to get a little dirty if you know what I mean,” Bela laughs as everyone groans almost in unison. 

“Maybe a little less information next time, yeah?” Dean shakes his head, grossed out but laughing all the same. 

“Don’t be coy, Dean,” Bela teases with a cluck of her tongue, “You can’t tell me you kept your hands completely to yourself either.”

Dean doesn’t bother responding, the sudden flush he can feel spreading across his face and down his neck is answer enough.

“That’s what I thought, Donna your turn,” Bela cracks up, passing the floor to Donna. 

“Jodes was perfect,” Donna giggles into what looks like her fourth lime green shot. “Just perfect…”

Seeing that’s all they would be getting from Donna as she devolves into an honest to god giggle fit, all eyes turn to Dean. 

“Well?” Charlie asks, eyebrow raised in question. 

“Yeah, spill Dean,” Jo chimes in, glaring playfully. 

So he does. 

Dean relays every detail of his perfect proposal from Cas all the way up to laying his eyes on the man himself for the first time. By the end, Charlie’s staring at him damn near with hearts in her eyes, Alfie and Sarah wandered off to who knows where, Donna’s half passed out on Claire’s shoulder, Jo’s mouth is quirked up in what he thinks might be a smile, Benny unfortunately looks a bit jealous, and Sam’s got an odd blank look. Almost like he’s trying not to react too much, making himself look even more suspicious. Dean’ll have to dig into that later. 

“See! Like I’ve been saying, relationship goals,” Charlie finally comes back online, squealing in her excitement. “I’m gonna do it, guys. I’m gonna propose to my person tomorrow.” 

“Are you sure? Wait, do we get to know who?” Dean asks, knowing the chances are slim she’ll say but hoping anyway. 

Everyone knows Charlie’s seeing Dorothy and Stevie, but since she’s been having such a hard time choosing between them it’s shocking that she’s made a decision so suddenly. Dean just hopes it isn’t the excitement of everyone else’s engagements pushing her to make a decision too soon. 

“I’m sure, it’s gonna be hard but I’m sure,” Charlie assures him. “And no, you won’t know until she does. Them's the rules.” 

Dean stays in the living room for a few more hours celebrating until he’s absolutely exhausted and more than a little drunk. That talk with Sam will have to wait. He says his goodnights around 3 in the morning, hoping to get a few hours of sleep before seeing Cas again. Dean drifts off to the phantom sensation of Cas’ arms running a soothing pattern down his back, body thrumming with the heavy anticipation of having the real thing tomorrow. 

Having the real thing, having Cas, forever.

**********

Week One

Day Six

Dean wakes up wishing he was home. Not because he wants to leave, no way is he leaving Cas, but he could sure use his moms greasy hangover breakfast right about now. Rolling over to his side he notices Sam’s already left the room so he gets up to go about his morning routine in peace. A stupid hangover won’t get in the way of he and Cas’ first date without a wall between them. With that thought, he quickens his pace throwing on a pair of light wash jeans and his favorite Zeppelin tee. It’s one of his older ones from college so it’s a little tight, but he’s sure Cas won’t complain. Lips twisting in a playful smirk, Dean exits the room in search of Sam. He hasn’t forgotten his part in yesterdays setup and Dean has questions. 

When he gets to the kitchen, Benny’s at the stove cooking eggs and bacon. 

Dean releases a groan of satisfaction he immediately regrets when Benny turns giving him an appreciative once over. Clearly he’s not anywhere near over his crush, great. Dean promises himself to be more careful around his friend so it doesn’t get awkward. 

Stealthily changing the focus, Dean grabs a few slices of bacon, “You are a godsend, dude. Have you seen Sammy?” 

The glint doesn’t disappear from Benny’s eyes but he doesn’t comment on it either, “Nope, can’t say I have. Where ya off to so early?”

“Got a hot date,” Dean responds with a wink before grabbing the plate of eggs Benny shoves into his hands on the way out the door. 

Belatedly he realizes he probably should quit winking at his friend too, it’s just his default setting but it most likely isn’t helping. It’s not like Benny’s crush is anything new, Dean has had plenty of friends over the years that harbored feelings for him. Falling in love with the exterior unaware the interior is a broken, jumbled mess. It’s just…awkward in this scenario and he feels like it wouldn’t be happening if Lisa wasn’t so…Lisa.  It sucks because Dean can think of at least five different people back home that would treat Benny so much better, but he’s making his own choice. Dean just hopes Benny cuts out the obvious pining once Cas is around. 

He brushes those thoughts away as soon as he enters their new shared pod and spots Cas waiting for him. Dean damn near drops the last of his eggs but has the forethought to set the plate on the coffee table before colliding with Cas. He moves in for a kiss, possible egg breath be damned. There it is, the now familiar hesitant first press of Cas’ lips on his. Cas deepens the kiss this time, licking into Dean’s mouth and taking control. Dean caresses the back of Cas’ neck in response as Cas’ grip tightens, pulling Dean in closer. He’s not sure how long they stand there, exploring these new sensations between them. Eventually, Dean remembers breathing is also important and forces himself to back away. 

Dean rests his head against Cas’ as he gets his breath back, murmuring, “Missed you.” 

“I missed you too, love,” Cas responds, pink tongue darting across his lips as though he’s chasing the flavor of Dean. 

Dean can’t resist one last peck to those lips before leading Cas over to the new seating arrangement, two armchairs and a long sofa. They settle on the sofa, probably closer than they need to be but it feels right to be pressed against one another. If he wasn’t hyperaware of the cameras Dean wouldn’t be against sitting right in Cas’ lap, but that’s for another day he supposes. 

Cas reaches over, curling his fingers through Dean’s in a way that feels like they’ve been doing this forever. “Not to come across as ‘thirsty’ as Gabriel puts it, but I really did miss you Dean. Probably an inordinate amount for the length of time it’s been since we last spoke.” 

Sometimes Dean feels like he needs a dictionary to decipher some of what Cas says but he’ll buy a damn pocket edition if he needs to, he’s just too adorable, “Don’t ever change, okay Cas?”

Cas looks puzzled for a moment before responding, “I wasn’t planning on it, Dean.” 

“Good,” Dean responds, chuckling lightly. “Hey, uhm…how were things with Lisa yesterday?”

The roll of Cas’ eyes tells him enough but his words solidify his concerns, “She’s still being awful but we dislike her as a collective at this point so it’s not too bad.”

“Are you sure? I could have Benny say something maybe…or…” Dean begins to formulate a plan but Cas cuts him off. 

“I thought I was the one who promised to take care of you, Dean. Why do you worry so much about others to the detriment of your own needs?” Cas asks bluntly, emphasizing his words with a light squeeze to Dean’s hand. 

The words throw Dean for a loop but he guesses he has been a little hyper focused on how Lisa’s affecting Cas. And he can kinda see how that’s caused him to completely ignore how her antics have been affecting Dean as well. 

Dean squeezes Cas’ hand back in thanks for the reminder, “Sounds like someone’s been paying attention,” Dean mumbles, “I don’t know, it’s just…” he trails off.

Cas raises an eyebrow in question so Dean continues. 

“I guess it’s something I’ve just done since my dad died,” Dean admits, he’s not even sure he’s ever had this conversation with Sam but now he’s spilling all of it to Cas, “Probably remnants of his ‘how to be a man’ nonsense. Mom was struggling working two jobs and still barely making ends meet, Bobby helped where he could but he wasn’t exactly rolling in it either. So, as soon as I turned 16 I started working at a local auto shop where Bobby used to work before he retired.”

Dean smiles at the memory, he walked in to old man Rufus’ place one Saturday and asked for a job. Rufus almost laughed him off the property but Dean asked him to give him a shot, if he didn’t make it through one shift he’d never ask again. Dean fixed every car that was brought in that day, by himself by Rufus’ own decree. The job was his, and the shop became his as well when Rufus passed on a few years back. 

He’ll always be grateful to that old man for giving him a shot and believing in Dean enough to leave him his legacy, his business, in his will. 

“I’d work after school, gave half of what I made to my mom. I’d sneak it into her purse so she couldn’t say no but I’m pretty sure she knew where it was coming from.” Dean finishes, feeling the bright smile stretching Cas’ features mirrored on his own. Stories about his mom always did that to him. 

Their moment is interrupted by Balth’s special knock and abrupt entrance into the room, followed closely by Meg. 

“Sorry to interrupt but we’ve got to go, boys. Right away,” Balth emphasizes his words with a clap of his hands. 

“Balthy’s right, let’s get a move on Clarence,” Meg shoots a look over at Dean with a lascivious wink, “and Ken doll.” 

Cas furrows his brow as Dean eyes them both, features clouded with confusion over who the hell Clarence is and why Balth’s being weirder than usual.

“Huh?” Dean manages to spit out. 

“It’s a surprise, come along,” Balth responds waving his hands for them to follow him out of the pod. 

“Come on, I guess,” Cas says, gesturing towards the door as he pulls Dean to his feet. 

With nothing else to do and no other answers from Balth or Meg, Dean follows his fiancé out of the pod allowing himself to be led to parts unknown. 

They walk briskly down the hallway back in the direction of the main hall they all arrived blindfolded in on day one. Dean spots Benny, Donna, and Bela standing next to what must be their fiancés. Dean hears what legit sounds like a low growl coming from Cas when he notices a petite brunette staring at him. He figures it must be Lisa since she’s standing with Benny, the other two could only be Jody and Gordon in that case. 

A throat, belonging to Missouri, clears at the front of the room and his inspection of the other cast members is cut short, though he feels eyes on him he’s sure belong to Lisa. If this weren’t a reality show he could tell her off and block her from his life, but as it stands Dean will have to remain in close contact with this woman for at least the next two weeks. Ughhh.

“Congratulations on your engagements,” Missouri says, clapping erupts in the room at her words before dying down so she can speak, “You all took a risk and found your reward, now it’s time to have a little fun.” She trills with a playful wink. 

Dean perks up at her words, wondering what she could possibly mean. Everyone else also seems puzzled. 

“I hope you remembered your sunblock, that’s all I’m saying,” Missouri states, “You’re going on a trip. Don’t worry, your friends who match will join you in a few days. All your belongings have been packed and put on the plane, we leave in thirty minutes.” Missouri moves to leave but seems to think twice, “Many of you have exchanged three very important words and the next two weeks will show if you truly meant them or not. Some will find the courage to say them for the first time, some will wish they could take them back, while others will fall deeper in love day by day. I’ll leave you with that thought, have a good time!” 

Missouri surveys the room and Dean can’t help but feel her last words were meant for them specifically with how her eyes linger on him, but she’s gone before he can even think to ask. 

“…but hopefully it isn’t a long flight,” Cas says. 

Dean only just realizes not only was Cas speaking and he missed it but he disregarded a huge part of Missouri’s little speech. They’re flying somewhere. In thirty minutes. Nononononono. Dean can’t become a basket case in front of Cas, not yet. His type of crazy is something you break out after you’ve been together for at least two weeks minimum. 

His lack of response pings Cas’ concern, “Dean are you okay? You look a little sweaty…and very frightened. Did I do something wrong?” Cas’ eyes go owlish and confused, Dean can’t stand him thinking that so he rushes to clear up the misunderstanding. 

“No!,” Dean shouts and everyone looks their way so he forces himself to continue at a normal volume, “No I’m…I’m good, you’re good I just,” he breaths out a whoosh of air. If he can’t tell his fiancé who can he tell, right? “I have a huge fear of flying…” he squeaks out.

Understanding floods those sapphire eyes and Dean feels himself relax marginally, if he can’t have Sam at his side Cas will definitely do. 

“What do you need me to do?” Cas asks, keeping a firm grasp on Dean’s hand. 

“Just…just be here with me,” Dean responds, it’s the best he can offer when the ultimate solution is not getting on another plane at all.

The next thirty minutes are a special mix of heaven and hell. Cas won’t leave his side, quite literally, but Dean finds it so endearing he can’t complain. It’s also doing wonders on keeping him calm. A calm that’s sporadically disrupted by Lisa trying to catch his attention and Benny shooting him heart eyes along with a few jealous glares for Cas. It doesn’t help when they’re forced to sit next to the other couple on the shuttle ride to the airport. Dean can’t even enjoy breathing fresh air and seeing sunlight for the first time in a week. Figures. 

By the time they’re boarding the private plane Dean is a hot mess of nerves. The only thing grounding him is the warmth Cas’ hand emits in his desperate, and unfortunately very clammy, grasp. 

“It’s okay, Dean. I’m right here,” Cas says for what may truly be the millionth time. It’s not the words so much as Cas’ low rumble of a voice that soothes him enough to climb the stairs and finally enter the plane. 

“There he is, saved you two a seat right here,” Benny points over to the two vacant seats next to him and Lisa. 

Dean pastes on what he hopes is an approximation of cheer, of course he’d sit next to his best friend. 

It doesn’t matter if that best friend is technically his ex and engaged to his other ex and neither of them are over Dean, yet they want to sit right next to him and his fiancé during a who knows how long flight to who knows where.  

All other sound is drowned out by the loud beating of Dean’s heart in his ears, his vision goes blank, and the temperature in the cabin of the plane goes up by what feels like about 1,000 degrees. 

Distantly, Dean hears what sounds like Balth and Cas discussing something in low tones before he feels Cas’ arms around him leading him somewhere, hopefully off of this death trap. 

His breaths are still coming too fast and Dean can’t seem to calm down enough to register more than Cas pushing him down to sit on something soft. 

“Dean,” Cas says, kneeling in front of him and gently turning his face so blue meets green, “Focus on my voice, can you name three things you see in this room?” 

Dean still can’t steady his breathing but he tries his best to do what Cas asked, “Uhm…th-the blue lamp over there,” Dean searches around, “the d-door, and your eyes,” Dean answers lamely, slowly catching his breath enough to realize they’re in a bedroom. 

Since when do planes have bedrooms? It’s almost enough to convince Dean this isn’t the worst idea ever. Almost. 

“Okay, what about three things you can hear?” Cas continues, chuckling softly at Dean’s last answer. 

“Your voice, whatever god awful music that is they’re playing in here, and Bela,” Dean answers, coming back to himself even more as they go on. 

“Great, now move three parts of your body,” Cas responds, hands resting either side of Dean on the bed he now realizes he’s sitting on. 

A zing shoots through his body, Dean’s mind drifting off to a deliciously filthy place as the last remnants of his panic seep away into nothing. Cas’ eyes darken at the same moment Dean realizes his breath is picking up for an entirely different reason. He leans in brushing his lips against Cas’ slowly, licks his tongue out across his bottom lip nipping at it playfully before pulling back. 

“Lips, tongue, teeth. Think I’m gonna be okay, doc,” Dean murmurs in the space between them more than tempted to close it again, minus all the clothes in the way. But that isn’t how he wants this to go, “I know most people would be begging to join the mile high club right about now but I kinda want our first time to be…different…you know?” 

Cas huffs out a breath of relief, standing to sit next to Dean on the bed, “I was actually going to say the same so I understand, Dean. I just wanted to get you somewhere private, sometimes less people or noise can help if you feel panicked.” He shrugs noncommittally, avoiding eye contact with Dean for the first time. 

“Speaking from experience?” Dean knows they’ve danced around the subject but Cas opened the door so he’s walking through it. 

Cas pauses but a look of determination comes over his face, “I’m sure you’ve noticed a few of my ‘quirks’?”

Dean nods pretty sure he knows where this is going, “Yeah…”

“My parents never bothered, no if I’m being honest they never cared enough, to have me tested. But Gabriel and I have surmised I’m more than likely neurodivergent…ASD to be more specific…I’ve uhm…” Cas pauses, fiddling with Dean’s engagement ring before continuing, “…been too scared to make it official and confirm it myself but it all fits…” Cas’ entire body locks up and he shuts his eyes tight as though he’s expecting the worst.

Dean’s own panic is a distant memory, allowing him to caress the side of Cas’ face until he pops those baby blues back open, “There you are,” Dean smiles softly, running his thumb over the slight stubble on Cas’ chin, “I love everything about you, everything. I love who you are, from your absolutely sexy hair to the soles of your feet. Your big heart, your brain. All of it, Cas.” 

The confirmation of what he’d already been thinking doesn’t change how he feels about Cas one bit.

“I have a cousin with ASD and a few friends from high school, I’d never judge you for something you can’t control babe. You’re not a diagnosis on a piece of paper to me, I still love you just the same don’t ever doubt that.”

Dean leans in, kissing the tip of Cas’ nose and causing him to huff out a laugh and roll his eyes. He’s happy to hear it, and ecstatic to realize he isn’t all that scared anymore. They’ll be over thirty three thousand feet up in the air soon but he’s got his angel right here with him.

Their moment is interrupted yet again by Balth’s now obnoxious knock, “Covering my eyes, don’t need to see your naughty bits but I have what Castiel requested.” 

Balth literally has one hand over his eyes, one foot stretched to hold the door open, and the other is holding out what looks like a cassette tape and an old grungy looking portable cassette player. Huh?

“We’re fully clothed thank you, and what are you talking about?” Dean asks, shooting a confused look between Cas and Balth. 

“Oh, I completely forgot. I know you love music and I’d made you a ‘mix tape’ with Gabriel’s assistance the other day but I figured instead of waiting to give it to you later you’d probably prefer a distraction for the flight.” Cas answers his unasked question while fulfilling a wish he didn’t know he had. 

Dean feels seen on a level he can’t even comprehend, “Damn, you really do get me don’t you?”

“Crazy considering I don’t ‘get’ very many people. I honestly hate people.” Cas grumbles, gearing up for another rant. 

“I know, Cas. We’ve had long discussions on your dislike of people, bring me the tunes will ya?” Dean asks, making grabby hands for the tape. 

Balth hands over the tape and player, “Normally they’d make you sit up front for takeoff but I won’t say anything if you don’t. I doubt you want to sit with Lisa for the duration of the flight.” 

“NO!” Dean shouts, hoping the others didn’t hear him.

At the same time, Cas rumbles, “Definitely not.”

“Well will you look at that, speaking in sync already,” Balth leaves with a hearty laugh as the door clicks shut behind him. 

Dean settles back into the pillows on the bed, over the covers, as Cas gets comfortable next to him. They each place a headphone in one ear and Cas puts in the tape, pressing play. As Ramble On filters into his right ear Dean leans over, brushing a kiss to Cas’ cheek causing a blush to spread down to his neck. He doesn’t say a word, leaning back with Cas’ arm around him as the plane begins the steady ascent into the air. 

Closing his eyes, Dean focuses on the music, not the vibration of the plane. Cas’ slow breathing at his side, not the whirring of the engine. Dean soaks up the moment he’s in, letting go of his worries and what ifs. 

Chapter Text

Week One 

Day 7

Dean feels a soft nudge to his shoulder, the warm press of lips to his forehead. He smiles at the contact, opening his eyes slowly as he wakes up from his unplanned nap. 

“Hello, Dean,” Cas whispers, swiping a quick kiss against Dean’s mouth. 

“I’ll never get tired of that,” Dean mumbles against Cas’ lips before pulling back, “Are we…wherever they took us yet?” He asks, sitting up and adjusting to lean more comfortably against Cas. 

He reaches down, automatically entwining their hands together. Dean notices how perfectly Cas’ slender fingers fit between his own as he absentmindedly swipes a thumb back and forth across Cas’ palm. 

Cas’ crystalline gaze softens at the sensation, “That’s why I woke you. I figured it would be best to wait until we landed but, yes, we have arrived.” 

A zing of happiness flows through him both at the pleasure of having missed landing entirely and the rush of seeing a new place, with Cas at his side. 

“Any idea where we are?” Dean asks, fighting off a yawn. 

“No, but Balth said to come up front and find out.” Cas answers, making a move to get off of the bed.

Dean groans, “He can’t just come back here and tell us? This bed…” Dean emphasizes by gesturing at the bed underneath them.

He’s torn between getting up to find out where the hell they’ve been taken and wanting to go back to sleep, snuggled up to Cas this time of course. Dean’s a cuddler with the right person and he won’t be shamed for it. 

Who would have thought a bed on a flying death trap would be so damn comfortable. 

“I don’t believe this is optional, Dean,” Cas deadpans, rising from the mattress and pulling Dean along with him. “We can both nap as long as you want later, come on.” 

The promise of a future nap, together, lulls Dean into a false sense of security. So, without further discussion, Cas uses Dean’s hold on his hand against him and swiftly walks them back out into the main part of the plane. Dean grumbles behind him the whole way, secretly enjoying being pulled around by Cas. 

“There you two lovebirds are, come take a seat with the class,” Balth jokes, gesturing to the two empty seats they’d avoided taking earlier. Meg unsuccessfully hides a smirk behind her fist at the front of the plane. 

“Now that you’re all here, we won’t keep you in suspense,” Balth intones, eyes sweeping from one side of the plane to the other, “You’ll be spending the next half of the experiment in Honolulu. We’ve got a good part of the Halekulani resort rented out just for us, so feel free to frolic, eat, fu-"

“Balthazar!” Meg attempts to admonish in a mock scandalized tone, but her devious smile gives her away. 

For his part Balth rolls his eyes, making a flimsy attempt at editing his statement, “Fornicate, is that better?” 

A ripple of laughter erupts from the group, bouncing and echoing around the plane. Good thing this isn’t going on cable. 

“Alright, what this idiot is trying to say is, you’ve got the run of the place. Go nuts or whatever floats your boat,” Meg says, gesturing for them to exit the plane.  “A shuttle’s waiting for us and once we arrive, the staff will walk you to your rooms where you’ll find your itinerary for any group activities along with your bags. Otherwise, you’re on your own.” 

With that they all begin filing off of the plane as instructed, getting their first glimpse of Hawaii.

Dean hasn’t traveled anywhere he can’t drive to in years and Hawaii just never made that list, but he can see the appeal. He and Cas only get a few minutes of bright blue skies, lush foliage, and warm breezes before they’re shuffled onto the shuttle with the others. 

Unsurprisingly, he and Cas are jammed next to Lisa and Benny once again. Benny keeps shooting glances towards Dean when he thinks Cas and Lisa aren’t looking, completely unaware Lisa’s doing the same when Cas and Benny aren’t looking. Either way, he’s beginning to sweat under all this attention.

“This is giving me second hand embarrassment, man,” Sam pipes up, stifling a laugh. 

“Shut up, you’re just mad I’m clearly more desirable than you,” Dean snarks, waggling his eyebrows. 

Sam rolls his eyes, swiping a hand through his hair, “Somehow I doubt that’s what’s going on there.” 

Dean’s never really gotten Sam’s point of view on the hot mess he ended up in with Lisa and Benny. 

“So, what do you think it was then?” He asks, attempting to sound disinterested.

Sam’s bitchface tells him he failed miserably, “Really, Dean? Benny had a thing for you since the pods and wished you never chose Cas in the first place, Lisa just had no clue what she wanted, and they both dumped their issues on you and Cas. Simple.” He finishes with a shrug. 

“Simple,” Dean mocks in a high pitched tone, avoiding a real response by pressing play and turning the volume up. 

Dean realizes he may need to have a talk with one, or both, of them to clear the air. He decides to run it by Cas once they’re alone, he doesn’t want to hurt his friend but Benny made his choice and Dean’s happy with Cas. He has a connection with Cas he never thought he’d get in this lifetime, or ever. Dean knows he isn’t easy to love, but Cas does it so effortlessly and he isn’t going to put that at risk for anyone.

Dean thinks back to all the little signs that were there from the day he and Benny met outside the pods, all the subtle flirtations he let slide thinking they were jokes. So fucking stupid. Keeping this one sided crush going will only ruin any possibility of a friendship beyond the show. As for Lisa, he’d prefer not speaking to her at all but she’s being disrespectful not only to Cas and their relationship, but to Benny as well. She needs to respect their boundaries and that’s his bottomline. 

“Hey, where’d you go?” Cas asks, nudging him gently in the side and bringing him back to the present moment. 

Dean shrugs it off, “Nothing I can’t tell you later, for now I wanna know more about where they dragged us off to.” 

With a ‘we’ll talk about this later’ eyebrow raise, Cas turns his attentions back on the view of the resort as the shuttle comes to a full stop out front. Dean can’t believe he missed the entire ride overthinking so he makes a conscious effort to pay full attention as they each receive a lei and warm welcome disembarking the shuttle. 

Cas gasps next to Dean as they take in the breathtaking view from the tall palm trees swaying lazily in the warm breeze to the lush green landscape that surrounds the property. Dean spies a crystal clear pool just barely visible off to the right of the resort and the beginnings of white sandy beach leading into the frothy, rolling waves of the ocean. 

Turning to Cas Dean jokes, “I’ll forgive the sneak attack plane ride if this is really where we’re staying for the next week.” He continues to survey everything going on around them while pretending not to notice the two sets of eyes tracking his every move. 

“I’m sure they wouldn't drive us here if we weren't staying, Dean,” Cas shakes his head as though Dean’s the confused one, but okay. 

“Righhttttt, wasn’t being literal love but that’s okay,” Dean teases, brushing his lips across the back of Cas’ hand. The banter and easy intimacy allows him to relax and successfully tune out Benny and Lisa for the time being. 

“I don’t think I’ll ever get tired of that,” Cas murmurs, almost a mimic of Dean’s earlier words, as he leans further into Dean’s space, eyes alight with awe.

“What? The pet names or the kisses?” Dean asks, quirking an eyebrow in faux confusion but captivated by Cas’ stare all the same.  

“Both?” Cas shrugs in answer as they’re interrupted before Dean can respond. 

“Alright, if you’ll follow me I’ll lead you to your rooms. Don’t worry about your bags they’ll be brought up for you,” a resort employee, Anton, advises as he waves them all inside. 

It’s a blur from there to reception where they all receive key cards for their assigned rooms along with helpful resort brochures. Dean pockets them to look over later as the group moves along to the elevators. Thankfully, some god up above came through making sure he and Cas are in a room as far as they can get from Benny and Lisa. They bid the other couple a tepid goodbye as Anton ushers them further down the hall. 

“Thank God,” Dean blurts out, moments after the door clicks shut behind Anton. He’d stayed just long enough to show them around the room and give details for how to contact the front desk if needed. Now, Dean finds himself alone with Cas for the first time in hours. Finally. 

“If you’re referring to Benny and Lisa we still have to see them later at the bonfire,” Cas helpfully reminds Dean. 

“Thanks for that babe, but no I was referring to us being alone sans annoying castmates, friends, exes, little and/or big brothers…need I go on?” Dean responds cheekily, heart picking up at the flush sweeping across Cas’ features at the endearment. 

Dean has a long list of pet names just for Cas if he’s gonna get this reaction every time. Game on.

Cas tilts his head to the side, adorably, in consideration. “Oh, yes. That makes more sense.” 

“Come here ya goof,” Dean realizes he’s gonna have to take the lead, pulling with the hand still entwined with Cas’ until the shorter man is right in front of him. Cas automatically wraps his arms around Dean in the embrace he’d been searching for to begin with. “Much better.” 

Dean sinks into the warmth of his fiancé’s hold as he feels every part of Cas’ body relax in turn. 

“Missed you,” Dean murmurs, nuzzling into Cas’ neck while fighting back the urge to go further just yet. 

“I’ve been with you this whole time, Dean. Don’t be ridiculous,” Cas chuckles, running his hands soothingly up and down Dean’s back. The action sends a wave of warmth through his body along with the desire to get closer to his fiancé. 

“Yeah but I was asleep the entire way here so that doesn’t count,” Dean reasons, allowing his own hands to drift to Cas’ waist. 

“I did enjoy watching you sleep…” Cas admits with a small smirk. His eyes drift from Dean’s then down to his lips, back and forth until there’s no mistaking what he wants. 

Dean leans in, intent on kissing the smirk right off Cas’ stupidly beautiful face. Mouths close enough to share breaths, Dean’s lips brush tantalizingly against Cas’ plush pout as he murmurs, “Tell me how this compares.” 

If the kisses they’ve shared so far ignited the flame this kiss stokes it into a blazing inferno. Dean’s not sure where he ends and Cas begins as he feels himself being walked back into what turns out to be the wall. Cas’ hands are everywhere as though he’s unsure what part of Dean he’d like to touch more, so instead he’s doing his best impression of an octopus, but Dean loves it. Dean trails his own hands up into Cas’ messy mop and tugs gently eliciting the sweetest groan from Cas, vibrating through his chest where it presses against Dean. All of it pales in comparison to how Cas artfully steals his breath away with the slick slide of his tongue and nip of his teeth on Dean’s lips. 

Dean could stay this way forever, drowning in the affections of his angel, but when he feels that now familiar hardness pressed against his own he decides it may be time to hit the pause button. Slowly, he retracts his tongue with a sweet nip on his way, ending in a chaste kiss. Pulling back to breathe, he’s treated to Cas’ lust blown baby blues staring intently as if he’d prefer to be devouring Dean right then and there and it takes all Dean’s willpower to abstain. Damn morals. 

Anchoring his hand on Cas’ chest Dean manages to speak through the tension rising between them, “I’d love nothing more than to make love right here right now but, blue balls be damned, I think we should try and take things slow…”

“Humorous considering we ‘met’, started dating, fell in love, and got engaged in five days,” Cas huffs a laugh before adding in a more serious tone, “However, I do see your point. There’s absolutely no reason to rush this part is there?”

“We’ve got the rest of our lives, what’s a few more hours?” Dean responds, glad that Cas is on board. 

Dean knows Cas usually needs more time for physical intimacy anyway but he also wants the chance to just be before they explore this new side of their budding relationship. More importantly, Dean doesn’t want Cas thinking he has any expectations of him beyond what Cas’ ready for. He gives himself a mental pat on the back for using his communication skills for once. Good job.

“Agreed, although I don’t think I’ve quite gotten the memo downstairs,” Cas pointedly glances down at his obvious, and not insubstantial, arousal. Lucky me. 

Dean tries not to broadcast his dirty thoughts on his face but he must fail miserably if Cas’ Dom brow is any indication. 

“Hey! Quit it with the eyebrow I’m hanging on by a thread here as it is,” Dean grumbles playfully, making space between himself and his fiancé to aid in their efforts not to rip each others clothes off. “Let’s uhm…unpack! Yes, we should do that, perfect distraction.” He emphasizes with a clap of his hands, moving away to rummage through his own bag as Cas follows suit. They’re both unpacked, and decidedly cooled down, in less than twenty minutes. 

“We’ve got about thirty minutes before we have to meet up with everyone else at the bonfire. Wanna go for a walk?” Dean asks, standing up and reaching for Cas. 

“It’s like you read my mind, love,” Cas laughs lightly, taking his hand. “Where to?”

Dean allows himself a moment to admire his soon to be husband before responding, “The beach?”

At Cas’ nod, they each take turns in the bathroom swapping into something more comfortable for the location before heading out hand in hand. That’s how they spend the remainder of their time alone, walking aimlessly along the waters edge. Shoes and socks discarded as the water swirls in eddies around their bare feet, squelching through the wet sand. It should feel gross but everything’s just better with Cas at his side. Dean finds they don’t even need to speak having filled all the silences in the pods leaving nothing but comfortability between them even without words. 

Near sunset Dean and Cas notice crew down at the end of the beach setting up for the bonfire.

“Wanna watch?” Dean asks, already knowing Cas’ answer, gesturing to the pile of sticks, logs, and twigs being assembled on the sand. 

They lower themselves down, side by side pressed together close, watching the proceedings. Dean rests his head on Cas’ shoulder as they listen to the shush shush shush of the waves rolling in and out, lulling them into a peace Dean wishes could last forever. By the time the sun is almost completely below the horizon the small campfire the crew started with has been built up to a proper bonfire, and the rest of Dean and Cas’ new friends have begun filtering in from around the resort. 

Since they were first to arrive, Dean and Cas choose prime seating close to the bonfire, and the snacks of course, and greet their friends as they walk up. 

“This place is amazing, I never wanna leave,” Donna gushes as she walks up, Jody’s hand along for the ride with her wild gesturing. By the look in their eyes they don’t mind one bit, Dean knows the feeling well by now. That ‘you could tell me you murdered someone last night and I’d still love you’ dopey look they’re both probably wearing proudly. Buncha saps. 

“Did you look at all the activities they offer yet?” Jody asks, chuckling as they wrench their hand back playfully from Donna to grab a bottle of water out of the provided cooler. 

“No, Dean has them though we’ll look later,” Cas nods, confirming as much with Dean. “I know I thought I saw a few things I may want to try as long as they aren’t too crowded.” He finishes, slight concern coloring his tone.

Dean squeezes his hand in comfort well aware of Cas’ issues with crowds. He’s sure they can find something to do that won’t cause Cas to panic or become overwhelmed, if anything they’ll spend the entire time in whatever spa this place has if that’s what’s necessary. 

He’s immensely grateful for Donna and Jody taking the two seats to his and Cas’ immediate left while Bela and Gordon slide in to their right when Benny and Lisa finally show up a few minutes later. Dean braces himself for the awkward but it turns out he gets a slight reprieve in the familiar faces that weren’t on the plane following behind the pair.

“Charlie,” Dean grins as his other new best friend bounces up excitedly holding hands with a mystery woman. 

“Dean! This is Stevie and I’m assuming this cutie is Cas?” Charlie asks as she greets both of them with bone crushing hugs. 

“Whoa I just saw you this morning, don’t squeeze the life outta me before I get to marry the man of my dreams, Charles,” Dean whines until she releases them both. 

“Nice to see you again, Stevie,” Cas speaks up with a small wave in Stevie’s direction.

“You too, Cas,” Stevie responds before turning to Dean, “Charlie’s told me a lot about you, Dean.”

“Hopefully all good,” Dean smirks before his attention is pulled away by another new arrival followed by several more. All told there are three more couples with them now; Michael and Alfie, Sarah and Dorothy, and Charlie and Stevie. 

“So who was still there when you guys left?” Benny asks Charlie as his eyes dart to Lisa, already on her third glass of wine. She keeps trying to catch Dean’s eye but he’s determined to ignore her.

“I know Claire was still trying to work up their nerve to ask Kaia and Sam never did tell us who he’s seeing but of course he’s still there until one of them pops the question…oh and Jo,” Charlie continues to count off each remaining castmate on her fingers while the other hand turns her marshmallow in the fire.  

“Claire’s overthinking it, Kaia loves them and would readily say yes if asked,” Cas pipes up, he’d been less talkative since Benny and Lisa arrived but Dean was glad to hear him speak up. 

Plus, he’s right Claire just has to get out of her own way and take a chance. Easier said than done, present company included, but he’d like to think he’s made tremendous progress in the last week or so. 

“Hey,” Dean leans close so only Cas can hear him as the conversation continues around them, “You okay?”

He doesn’t have to elaborate, Cas just knows, “Yes, I just don’t trust her.” 

“Do you trust me?” Dean asks, taking the chance the answer won’t be what he hopes but Cas doesn’t let him down in the slightest.

“Without question,” Cas states firmly, no hint of hesitation. 

“Then that’s all that matters,” Dean responds with a soft smile, “I’m gonna head to the bathroom inside but I’ll be right back, kay?” 

At Cas’ nod Dean leaves him with a soft kiss before wandering off to the restroom just inside the lobby of the resort. He attempts the fastest pee break on record trying to make it back to Cas’ side but on his way out of the restroom he almost collides with none other than Lisa. Fanfuckingtastic. 

“Fancy meeting you here, Dean,” Lisa giggles in what he’s sure is meant to be a flirty tone but just sounds desperate, rehearsed, and sad. 

“Not really considering you probably followed me from the bonfire, what is it you want?” Dean asks, shrugging her off and walking out of the lobby doors back towards the beach and Cas. Safety in numbers.

“Just to talk, you know without an audience…” Lisa stage whispers the last bit while attempting to get closer into his space.

“Again, funny considering all of this is filmed,” Dean responds, enjoying the little eye twitch he’s causing as he walks away, “What did you wanna talk about, Lisa?” He’s got the bonfire in his sights and can just spot Cas’ head off to the right. Almost there.

“Well, uhm…now that I’ve seen you I know where I recognize you from…does Cas know?” Lisa asks slyly like she’s got a secret to spill. 

“Castiel.” Dean corrects, hating the sound of the nickname in her simpering tone. 

“Huh?” Lisa asks dumbly. 

“His name is Castiel, only I call him Cas,” He bites out through clenched teeth. Her words had the desired effect of making him stop but at least now they’re in full view of everyone so she can’t pull anything funny. “What are you even talking about?”

“You know…I kinda follow your instagram, Winchester Restorations. Not exactly into cars if you know what I mean,” Lisa makes a poor attempt at a wink along with her weak revelation. 

“That social media shit? My mom runs that for me so any contact you think we’ve had you were talking to her. My business has thousands of followers, not me,” Dean emphasizes making a mental note to ask his mom to quit posting thirst trap pics of him working on the cars. He knows her hearts in the right place but if the additional publicity for the shop comes with crazies like this, no thanks. 

“But…I’m your biggest fan this is obviously meant to be…” Lisa begins to whine, lip trembling as tears threaten to spill over in her eyes. 

“No, Lisa. I’ve tried being polite about this but I’m with Cas now and you’re with Benny, end of story. Just stop it, okay?” Dean practically begs as he walks away without another word. 

Dean’s intentions to alert Benny are unnecessary as he sees the burly man making a beeline for the distraught woman. Dean can only hope he can talk some sense into her, or at least keep her occupied for the foreseeable future and away from he and Cas. 

Dean skips the chair, settling down in the sand in between Cas’ legs instead and finding instant comfort in the way Cas immediately leans forward enveloping him in his embrace. Dean relishes in the contact he didn’t realize he needed so badly but is thankful to have now. The fluttering kiss to the skin behind his ear helps to soothe Dean completely and he’s able to focus back on enjoying his time with their friends. That is until everyone hear’s Bela’s voice raise about ten octaves higher than usual. Ruhroh. 

“And you’re just telling me this now?!” Bela screeches, standing and glaring daggers at Gordon.

“Oh wow didn’t see that coming…” Charlie mumbles eyes trained on whatever’s unfolding next to them.

“Dude seriously?” Stevie rolls her eyes with a huff of disbelief.

Dean’s not any closer to knowing why Bela’s suddenly red faced and screaming at a cowering Gordon but those closest to the argument seem to be fully on her side. Translation, Gordon fucked up.

Chapter Text

“What the hell happened?” Dean whispers, trying to get Charlie’s attention. Before she has a chance to fill him in Bela raises her voice loud enough for everyone to hear. Not a good sign. 

“So let me get this straight, Gordon,” Bela’s voice drips like venom through clenched teeth, “You’re asking me to join you in your open relationship with your current long term partner? Do I have that right?” She spits out, eyes flashing with unconcealed hurt and more than a little rage.

“Well, yeah. I’ve gotten to know you, to…to love you through the talks we’ve had. You’re open minded. So, I didn’t tell you a few things right away. We’ll work through it,” Gordon shrugs weakly, “We can make you happy, I know it.” 

“You don’t know anything, Gordon,” Bela says firmly with a shake of her head, “It’s one thing to support your poly friends and entirely another thing to desire that arrangement for yourself. This isn’t going to work, Gordon. Ever.” There’s a slight wobble in her tone but her message comes across loud and clear. Gordon reaches out to try and grab her hand but she swiftly moves out of his reach, “Just…just leave me alone,” Bela finally breaks down, running away from the beach and back towards the resort. Charlie and Benny run after her while most of the group is too stunned to move. 

“I can’t believe you, you asshole!” Stevie finally manages to speak up as a few others nod in agreement. “Do you even realize what you’ve done? She’s in love with you and you were lying the whole time.” 

Gordon begins to speak, “I didn’t think…”

“Yeah that’s right you didn’t think…couldn’t have been thinking,” Alfie cuts Gordon off before he can provide any excuse, “Otherwise you would’ve realized it’s complete bullshit to try to force someone into a situation like that. It’s manipulative and you should be ashamed of yourself.” 

“But…” Gordon begins to mumble and gets cut off again. 

“The papers we signed were very clear Gordon, no existing long term relationships otherwise you were ineligible for the show. You not only lied to Bela you lied to production and all of us,” Michael helpfully reminds Gordon who visibly blanches. 

And like a horrible parody of a fairy godmother, productions security shows up just as Michael finishes speaking. 

“Time to go, sir,” the man motions with his hands towards the front of the resort. 

“But what about Bela? I’d like to speak with her before I go,” Gordon begs, something Dean thought he’d never see. 

“I’m sorry Ms. Talbot has asked to go home and for us to return this to you,” the man says, handing Gordon Bela’s engagement ring. 

Gordon stares at the small ring of silver and sparkling diamonds in his hand for several long moments before murmuring, “I really do love her…” as he’s ushered away the man looks so defeated Dean almost feels bad for him. Almost. 

“Oh. My. God. What the hell was that?!” Dean breaks the silence unable to keep his thoughts to himself one minute more. “I knew something was off with him but this?”

“If he really wanted to be here, all he had to do was break up with whoever he is with until filming wrapped. He could have been honest with Bela about his intentions from the beginning giving her the chance to decide for herself instead of complicating it all by lying,” Cas helpfully outlines in his low rumble from behind Dean. 

“Exactly,” Dean agrees with a pat to Cas’ knee. Cas gently pulls his head back so Dean’s staring up into endless blue. Cas leans down as Dean pushes up, lips ready for impact. Of course, Cas being Cas, he fakes Dean out at the last minute by licking the tip of his nose instead of the kiss Dean was so ready for. 

“Assbutt,” Dean snipes with a playful grin.

“You love this assbutt,” Cas smirks, daring Dean to say different.

“Always will, but that sounds all kindsa weird Cas,” Dean chuckles at the silliness of it all before forcing himself to turn his attentions back to the gathering. 

“I hope Bela comes to say goodbye at least. She was just starting to grow on me,” Donna admits with a small frown. 

Dean hadn’t spent a ton of time with her obviously but from what he’s heard from Cas they were becoming a tight knit group, minus Lisa of course. To have things abruptly end this way, with Bela being betrayed like this, it’s no wonder they’re all taking it hard. 

“Why’s Bela saying goodbye?” A familiar voice asks from beyond the glow of the bonfire. 

Two figures step forward to reveal Victor and Jo. 

“Hello, Victor,” Cas greets the man with a rare smile as Dean half shouts, “Jo!” With a squeal of excitement he’ll deny til his dying day. 

They spend the next five minutes relaying the events of the past hour up until Dean notices there’s no ring on either of their hands. Dean wouldn’t assume that it was Victor that proposed but it’s odd for neither of them to have a ring.

Scratching his head he decides to ask, “Uhm, aren’t you missing some hardware there?” 

Once he’s pointed it out everyone else looks as well and with the look that Victor and Jo share he’s sure he’s not gonna like what comes next. 

“Yeah…about that,” Jo starts before glancing over at Victor again. At his nod they continue, “Victor and I aren’t engaged and we won’t be getting engaged. We just…” 

At Jo’s faltering Victor picks up their thought, “We just don’t click as more than friends outside of the pods.” He rushes to reassure them at their concerned murmurs, “And it’s fine because I feel like we both already felt that way but since we aren’t moving forward, we’re going home as well.” 

“This bonfire is cursed,” Lisa gasps, words slurring from whatever forgotten corner Benny stashed her in. 

Dean can’t help the bark of laughter that erupts and soon everyone else has joined in. Sure this is a shitty start to what’s supposed to be their first vacation together but they’ve got good people surrounding them. Lisa joins in, completely oblivious that the joke’s literally on her and before long the mood has shifted back into the couples meet and greet production actually had planned.  

A little while later, Jo comes to find Dean before they leave for good, plopping next to him in the sand. Dean’s propped up against a log now since Cas abandoned him for a foot race down the beach with Michael. Apparently, Cas has a competitive streak that Dean would find totally hot if he wasn’t so wiped from the past 24 hours. His lack of interest in judging race number six led to him swapping out with Alfie while taking up his new perch on the sand alone, considering other ways to test the stamina Cas clearly has tons of. Hmmmm.

“Earth to Dean!” Jo shouts probably not for the first time as they snap their fingers in front of his face. 

“Whattttt?” Dean grumbles playfully, adjusting so the results of his mind wandering aren’t clearly visible to his friend. 

“Now that I’ve pulled you from your surely depraved thoughts about Cas,” Jo chuckles at his grimace for being caught out, “I came to say goodbye, Dean.” 

“Nope, no goodbyes just see ya laters,” Dean automatically spouts his moms words without thought but he means it. Jo lives close enough to visit whenever they want, they’re like family now. “Winchester Restorations remember to look me up or come by the shop anytime.” 

“I will, and you come by The Roadhouse for that burger and beer when you’re in town. Bring Cas, Sam, and whoever the hell he’s seeing. Oh! And your mom and Bobby I definitely can’t wait to meet them,” Jo promises, asking for a promise in return which Dean readily gives.

After a few kind words to the rest of the group and more promises to keep in touch Jo and Victor are on their way. The party pretty much breaks up at that point with everyone heading back up to their own rooms for the night with plans to meet for breakfast in the morning. He and Cas make their way back to their room in a comfortable silence that continues through both of their, separate, night routines until finally they’re snuggled up in bed together. Dean’s too tired for more than a goodnight peck on the lips before he’s dead to the world, wrapped safe and secure in Cas’ loving arms. 

“Sam I think your phone’s ringing,” Dean announces, finally getting tired of ignoring the vibrations on the glass of the coffee table. 

“Oh shit, that could be important. One sec,” Sam mumbles, pressing pause on the remote and walking out of the room already engrossed in his phone. Dean can hear Sam’s lawyer voice so he knows it might be a minute. 

Which leaves time for Dean’s mind to wander, specifically to the morning after their first night in Hawaii. An involuntary shiver sweeps through his body just at the memory alone. It had definitely been worth the wait. Dean’s still lost in his oh so naughty thoughts when he’s made aware pretty abruptly that Sammy’s back.

“Dean…Dean!” Sam repeats as his gigantic hand smacks Dean’s back. 

“What?!” He grumbles, slightly pissed at the interruption. 

“I’ve been trying to get your attention for like five minutes, jerk. I’m skipping over this next part, we both know why,” Sam grimaces with a visible shudder, “There are things I just don’t need to see…” 

Dean can’t help but drift in his mind to exactly what Sammy’s referring to but Sam’s whining about needing brain bleach pulls him right back. 

“Ewww you’re thinking about it aren’t you?” Sam groans loudly, throwing his head back in annoyance. 

Dean smirks, waggling his eyebrows, “Don’t ask questions you don’t want the answers to, Sammy.” 

“Ugh, you’re so fucking gross. Should I leave you three alone?” Sam whines petulantly, gesturing to the paused figures on the screen and shaking his head in mock disgust. 

“Nah, I’m good we can keep watching,” Dean shrugs, still laughing lightly as Sam pushes play.

Week Two

Day 8

Castiel wakes up earlier than intended the following morning but, once he’s up he can’t complain about his company or the view. He wasn’t lying, it is truly an amazing experience simply to watch Dean sleep. At first, Castiel imagined Dean might be an angry sleeper with all he holds in, but not with Castiel at least. His fiancé lies peacefully in his arms, slow deep breaths with occasional snorts and snuffles that Castiel can’t help but stifle his amusement from. 

The sun hasn’t fully risen but the soft beams of light that do make it through the balcony’s sliding doors highlight Dean’s best features. The low light caresses Dean’s face setting his freckles in stark relief to his satiny smooth complexion, lips pouted as though waiting for Castiel to bless them with a kiss. It’s at this thought that Castiel fully feels just how closely he and Dean are pressed, muscled back to firm chest. It causes him to buck up involuntarily, his thin boxers doing nothing to dull the sweet slide of his morning wood against Dean’s plump ass. Castiel stifles a moan in the back of Dean’s neck wishing he was awake but not wanting to disturb Dean’s slumber for his own sexual desires. Castiel’s long past wondering why his body is so reactive to someone he’s barely spent 48 hours with in the flesh. With that reminder, Castiel chooses to stick to their agreement, peeling reluctantly away from Dean’s tempting body and opting instead for a cold shower to dampen this burning need for his fiancé.

The shower does the trick, allowing his mind to wander just enough to settle his body down while also giving him time to plan their day. Once his body is clean and he’s finished his morning routine, Castiel exits the bathroom to find Dean has shifted into the warm spot he left behind. His heart warms at the sight as he pulls on fresh boxers, joining Dean in the bed and curling at his side. Castiel can hear Dean’s heart beating steadily in his chest as he absentmindedly runs his fingers up and down Dean’s sun kissed skin. 

“Mornin’ Sunshine,” Dean rumbles somewhere above Castiel’s head. 

The sudden words cause him to jump slightly, Dean chuckles in turn until Castiel pinches him lightly on the same side. 

“You startled me Dean,” Castiel grumbles, “but I guess I did wake you up so we’re even,” He finishes, peering apologetically into the mirthful moss green eyes above him. 

“It’s fine,” Dean promises, “Longer I’m awake the more time I get to spend with you.” 

Castiel can see him flushing at his own words, eyes downcast and turned away as though Dean wants to hide from them like he’s used to but Castiel won’t allow it. 

“Don’t,” he states firmly, “Don’t hide how you feel about me, about us, Dean. You never have to do that with me.” 

“How do you do that?” Dean asks, tone tinged with something like awe. He runs his hand through his bedhead as Castiel considers the question. 

“Honestly, I have no clue Dean. You are an anomaly, my only exception apparently,” Castiel answers knowing he’s speaking his truth, odd as it may seem. 

Dean just gazes at him for a moment, the intensity of his emotions laid bare as blue meets green, “You keep me from hiding how I feel, from denying myself what I’ve wanted for so long. I love you, Cas.” 

All Castiel can manage before their lips meet is a muffled, “Love you.” 

The kiss is nothing more than a firm but promising press of lips, sealing the devotion they have for one another making their bond feel solid and unshakeable. Castiel pulls away slowly knowing if they don’t exit this bed now they won’t be leaving it without fully consummating this relationship. 

“If you’re not opposed to it, I thought we’d grab an early breakfast without the others then go for a morning swim together? Obviously waiting the appropriate amount of time between eating and swimming,” Castiel pitches his plan for the morning, watching Dean intently for his reaction. 

Dean’s lip curls up into an adorable smirk, “I’d absolutely love to grab breakfast and a swim with you, Professor Cas.” He winks, chuckling at what Castiel assumes is supposed to be a joke regarding his ‘unusual way’ of speaking. 

“Hahaha Dean. I’ve been told I’m very articulate you know,” Castiel replies indignantly.  

“Babe, that was a sex joke,” Dean corrects, stifling a giggle, “As in you be the professor and I’ll be the student who never hands in his work on time…ya gonna punish me, Cas? Your big words kinda turn me on…” 

“Ohhhhhh,” Castiel shakes his head as he feels a flush overtaking his features and spreading down his neck, “I, uhm, wouldn’t be opposed to a scenario such as that, Dean.”

“Good to know,” Dean whispers seductively before planting one more kiss on Castiel’s lips and rolling completely off of the bed headed towards the bathroom. 

“Where are you going?” Castiel asks, feeling bereft and confused by the abrupt shift. 

“Don’t worry we’ll explore that little hidden kink at some point, for now I need food,” Dean yells back from the bathroom as the shower turns on. Castiel’s stomach grumbles in agreement so he doesn’t argue with Dean’s logic as they both prepare for the day.

*****

If Castiel thought keeping his hands to himself was hard with Dean next to him in bed, it’s ten times harder with him soaking wet and glistening in the sunlight. After a small breakfast of fresh fruit, pancakes, and eggs they made their way over to the beach intent on spending the next few hours together in the ocean. Castiel’s just appreciative of the relative privacy at this time of day so he can openly ogle this literal god who has agreed to be his husband. 

Castiel walks over to his love, wrapping his arms around him as he pulls Dean back against his chest, “Have I told you how lucky I am today?” Castiel whispers in Dean’s ear, feeling him shiver in his arms. Hopefully from delight at his words and not a chill from the water lapping around them. 

“Nope, not yet,” Dean responds on a happy sigh, leaning back further and resting his head on Castiel’s shoulder. The move gives him access to Dean’s neck and he takes full advantage planting small kisses everywhere he can reach while intertwining their hands in the water, only stopping when Dean lets out a low moan. “This ain’t a bed, Cas.” He reminds Castiel, shooting him a playful smirk. 

“I remember, but…are we still taking things slow, Dean?” Castiel asks, needing clarification. Dean’s being very flirty but last they spoke sex wasn’t something they were jumping into just yet. No matter how much Castiel’s beginning to want. 

Dean flicks his eyes to Castiel then back out to the ocean before answering, “My body’s saying yes,” he pulls Castiel’s hand down under the water to show him how much he’s on board physically and he can’t help but moan at the feel of Dean in his hand. His trunks barely contain him, demonstrated beautifully as Dean slowly grinds against Cas’ hand gasping sweetly, until Dean pulls away from the contact completely. “But I think we should have a clear conversation about this and not out here.” He gestures to the vast crystal blue ocean surrounding them and the beach behind them now filling with other guests. Oh. 

“Yes, we should probably take this conversation elsewhere,” Castiel agrees then considers both their predicaments, “After swimming around a bit more.” 

Dean nods with a poorly concealed smirk before immediately diving under the water and swimming away. He pops up a few feet away yelling, “Well aren’t you gonna catch me?” With a cheeky wink, purposefully waking up Castiel’s competitive streak. The next thirty minutes are spent chasing the other back and forth through the water until Dean declares victory at least once. Fifteen minutes later finds them back in their room, successfully having avoided the rest of their castmates. 

“I say we relocate to the balcony,” Dean suggests, already headed in that direction. 

Castiel follows, lowering himself onto the lounger right next to Dean’s. For the second time that day his breath is taken away by something other than his fiancé, “This view is utterly astounding, absolutely beautiful…” 

“Yeah, it is…” Dean replies softly, it’s only then Castiel notices his eyes are trained on him, not the sights visible from their balcony. 

Castiel fully turns to Dean so he has all his attention, captivated by his green gaze the words slip out with ease, “I love you.”

Dean’s eyes mist over as he responds in an aching whisper, “Say it again.”

Castiel melts at the request, so willing to give Dean anything he asks as he readily complies, “I love you, Dean.” 

“See, that’s how I know you mean it,” Dean responds, tone softening further to something that warms Castiel’s soul, “that look in your eyes, I’ve never seen it before but I know it’s real.” 

Castiel makes up his mind right then and there, “Dean, I want nothing more than to make love to you right now.”

“I was just waiting for you to ask, angel,” Dean stands, reaching out for Castiel’s hand as he leads him back inside towards their bed. 

Gabriel grabs the remote and pushes pause faster than Castiel’s ever seen him move, “Waitttt, they actually filmed this?” Gabriel asks, face gone ghostly pale, “I don’t wanna see my baby bro bumping uglies EVER.”

“Gabriel you’re being a child, I’m sure they skipped the…more personal parts,” Castiel tries to soothe his older brother but he’s already grabbed all his candy and exited the room. 

Castiel would feel abandoned but this does give him time to reminisce on what did happen that morning…

“Wait, I need to close the sliding door otherwise people will hear,” Castiel reminds Dean, trying to turn back to get the door. 

“Leave it,” Dean turns, pulling him back with a mischievous sparkle in his eyes, “Maybe I want them to hear just how much you love me.” 

Castiel flushes at the implications but he’s quickly distracted by Dean’s hands inching his trunks down his legs, he quickly returns the favor for Dean until they’re both naked, laid bare to the others eyes for the first time. 

Castiel’s eyes are glued to the miles and miles of freckled skin before him, overcome with the impulse to kiss, lick, and bite every single one. Another time.

Dean quickly drops to his knees in front of Castiel, eyes trained on his rapidly hardening dick. He has moments to prepare before his fiancé’s plush lips suck the tip down, swirling his tongue around the head expertly. 

“Fuck, Dean,” Cas growls out in a low moan, hands immediately cradling Dean’s head. He runs his hands through the short brown strands at the back of Dean’s head, encouraging him to keep going. 

Dean pulls off for a moment, “Thats the end goal, babe,” before taking him all the way down to the back of his throat massaging his cock with pulsing swallows, groaning in pleasure as Dean takes himself in hand with slow strokes. 

Castiel’s close to blowing embarrassingly soon so he pulls gently on Dean’s hair warning, “I’m close.” 

Dean pulls off with a final swirl of his tongue down his length and around the head, wiping spit off his mouth as he stands to pull Castiel into a fully indecent kiss. Their tongues dance together, stoking the fire between them as Dean slowly guides Castiel to the bed. His knees hit the mattress as Castiel falls backwards, bouncing awkwardly once his body lands on the bed. Castiel props himself up on his elbows, scooting back to the headboard and watching Dean as he pulls condoms and lube from the swag bags production gave them. 

Dean walks back to the bed, pulling Castiel into a passionate, brain melting kiss. He positions himself in Castiel’s lap, dick brushing against his belly leaking down onto Castiel’s skin. It’s enough to distract him from the subtle movement of Dean beginning to prepare himself, however when he catches on, Castiel snakes his hand down Dean’s back, caressing his muscled ass before continuing down to his hole. Reaching the desired destination, Castiel continues the kiss while he adds his own finger to Dean’s two pushing in and out while Dean grinds back and forth. 

The combined effort gets him loose enough for Dean to moan out, “Need you, Cas.” 

Castiel removes his finger from Dean, rolling the condom on and slicking himself with the lube leftover on his hands. “Ready?” He asks, pausing before pushing in slowly at Dean’s nod while his fiancé lowers himself until they meet in the delicious middle. 

“Hnggghh, Cas,” Dean whines giving an experimental roll of his hips once he’s settled. 

Immediately Castiel is lost to the overwhelming sensation of pure heat surrounding his cock, Dean’s body pressed close and sweaty against his own, and the wave of affection threatening to pull him under for the man perched above him. All he can think to do is anchor himself by maintaining eye contact with the viridescent gaze already trained on Castiel. Those eyes, filled with unadulterated love for Castiel, keep him grounded in this moment with Dean. They move in sync, Castiel planting his feet on the mattress to leverage his thrusts slow and deep for Dean while Dean rolls his hips back and down, grinding perfectly on Castiel’s cock head thrown back in ecstasy with each new shared sensation.

When Castiel hits Dean’s prostate a zing of pleasure overtakes him causing Dean to cry out, “Right there, Cas. Don’t stop, fuck I’m so close.” His fluttering hole rhythmically squeezes around Castiel’s cock almost throwing him over the edge. 

“Never…never felt like this with anyone before,” Castiel can’t help the admission falling out of his mouth as he trails kisses, licks, and bites over any part of Dean he can reach. Skin slapping on skin and their combined moans of pleasure fill the room, the symphony of Dean and Cas’ love making. He never wants this feeling to end but eventually it must. Castiel feels himself nearing the edge but wants Dean to topple over first. Reaching between them he begins to stroke Dean’s cock along with his measured thrusts. 

“Shit, Cas. Fuck, I love you. Love you so damn much!” Dean shouts, uncaring of whatever audience can hear them outside. “Hnnnggghh, so close…”

“Come for me, Dean,” Castiel rumbles, running his free hand down Dean’s sweaty back and all it takes is one well placed smack to his ass for Dean to find his release. 

“I’m..” Dean begins to shout, words cut off by his orgasm. Castiel works him through it as he erupts over his hand, making a sticky mess between them. Castiel can’t bring himself to care as he anchors his hand on Dean’s shoulder, thrusting up into his love seeking his own release. 

“Come on angel, gimme all you got,” Dean growls roughly into Castiel’s ear and that’s all it takes. He’s flying, or at least that’s how it feels. Shaking as his body hits its peak, filling the condom inside Dean and wringing him of all his energy. Castiel relaxes back into the bed, tense body melting into Dean’s embrace as he remains slumped on Castiel’s chest. 

After a moment or two, limbs still entangled and lying in sweat soaked sheets Dean finally speaks, “That was….the best sex of my life. Whooo, gimme like thirty minutes and we’re going again.” 

Castiel can only bring himself to chuckle tiredly, wrapping his arms around Dean and pulling him closer. 

*****

“There they are, finally,” Charlie exclaims, slightly disgruntled at their late arrival to dinner and drinks. 

“Sorry guys, we got a little held up.” Castiel aims for apologetic but can’t wash the glee from his tone.

At that exact moment Dean turns enough to show off the not so light smattering of love bites on his neck that don’t quite fall below the collar of his shirt.

The shift in view causes Stevie to snort into her glass of water as they take their seats, “Someone was busy.” 

“Yeah, Dean. What exactly ‘held you up’?” Dorothy teases from her seat next to Sarah. 

At Charlies mumbled, “Looks like Cas held him up against a wall,” the group erupts into raucous laughter drawing looks from other restaurant patrons. 

Benny and Lisa shift uncomfortably sharing sidelong glances but Castiel’s too high on Dean to care. 

“It’s all jokes now but you guys aren’t the ones who got a front row seat to the show,” Alfie complains, winking at them to soften the teasing. “Dean was all ‘oh god Cas right there’ and Cas was all ‘Dean’ in that gruff Batman growl of his. Someone forgot to close their balcony door,” Alfie relays to the group. 

“Oh that was on purpose, Dean said he wanted everyone to hear how much I love him,” Castiel corrects Alfie, missing Dean’s wide eyed stare at his honesty. 

“Cas,” Dean admonishes, “You’re not supposed to tell them, that takes all the fun out of it,” he groans rolling his eyes playfully. 

“I could see once, Dean but I think we got it after the third time. At that point you’re just bragging,” Michael chuckles, more amused with their neighbors than truly bothered judging by the sparkle in his ice blue eyes. 

“Glad we’re not the only ones getting to know each other a little better though,” Alfie pipes up, shooting ‘heart eyes’ at Michael as he sips on what looks like a glass of whiskey. 

The conversation is briefly interrupted by the waitress, Sandy, coming by to take Dean and Castiel’s drink orders. They both opt for a beer and Castiel also orders a side of fries to share with Dean to his fiancé’s delight. 

“I’m sure we aren’t the only ones,” Dean shrugs, searching for any sign of pie on the dessert menu. 

Again, Castiel catches that odd look shared between Benny and Lisa. There’s definitely something going on but the conversation’s moving too quickly for him to subtly catch Dean’s attention.

“Definitely not,” Charlie admits, winking at Stevie’s goofy lovesick smile. 

“Actually, Jodes and I have decided to wait, just our personal preference,” Donna adds, smiling fondly at her fiancé. 

“It’s nice you both decided what was right for you, together,” Benny adds, cutting Lisa with an annoyed glare. 

Finally, Dean sees what Castiel has noticed since they sat down, “What’s going on with those two?” He whispers for Castiel’s ears only.  

Castiel shrugs, Benny can come to them anytime, as Dean’s friend, to talk but Castiel isn’t going to nose into his business with Lisa without an invitation. Dean drops the subject in favor of turning his eyes on the fries the waitress drops in front of them, a consolation prize since he was unable to find any pie. 

“We’re waiting, too. It’s one thing to open up emotionally and a whole other to be physically intimate after just meeting. At least for us, I’d rather wait until we can both enjoy each other without reservations,” Sarah admits honestly, “If that ends up being on our wedding night that’s just fine with me.” 

Dorothy’s face reads as though she’s not quite on board but willing to go along with whatever Sarah wants for now. Actually, her expression isn’t far off from Benny’s pinched smile he’s aiming at Lisa. Hmmmm.

“They told us it wouldn’t be hard to find you nerds and I guess they were right,” Claire says, materializing next to the table with Kaia in tow. 

“Took you long enough,” Dean responds good-naturedly, getting up to wrap Claire in a hug and greet Kaia for the first time. 

“Can’t rush perfection, old man,” Claire replies, eyes landing on Kaia at their side. The brunette flushes and shifts under her fiancé’s loving stare as a collective awwww erupts from the group. 

“Come sit down so we can catch you up on all the drama,” Dorothy offers from the end of the table. 

While the rest of the group fill Claire and Kaia in on what they’ve missed so far, Benny motions to Dean and Castiel to meet him outside. Castiel’s surprised to be included considering Benny’s obvious crush on Dean but hopeful this may be a sign he’s moving on. They carefully excuse themselves from the gathering, meeting Benny in the resort lobby outside the restaurant. 

“What’s going on, man?” Dean asks immediately, voice colored with concern for his friend. 

Benny glances at Castiel briefly before speaking, “I know I haven’t had my head on quite straight and I wanna apologize for that to you both. It ain’t right harborin’ the feeling’s I’ve been havin’ for someone else’s partner…” 

“Well I don’t think any of us have our heads on straight Benny,” Dean replies, attempting to use levity to lighten the mood as he often does, “But, we’re friends dude its water under the bridge for me. Cas?”

“I could never begrudge anyone noticing the light shining in Dean, he’s easy to fall for. Don’t worry, it’s all forgotten and I accept your apology,” Castiel readily agrees knowing ultimately Benny meant no harm.

Dean blushes at the inadvertent compliment before zeroing back in on the discussion at hand, “Was that all that’s bothering you?”

Benny seems to steel himself before answering, “No…somethin’ happened last night with Lisa and it’s really throwin’ me for a loop here, brotha.” 

Castiel decides to let Dean take the lead since this is his friend after all and fades to the background listening as Benny relays his story. 

“Not to be…indelicate but when we spoke in the pods I thought we were both on the same page about how soon we would be…physical with each other,” Benny begins his tale, clearly editing for their benefit, “Apparently I was wrong or at least misunderstood I’m not sure. Lisa got very demanding, which wouldn’t normally be an issue, but it started to feel like I was gettin’ orders from a damn drill sergeant in the bedroom. It’s not my style and I told her so, her response was to ice me out completely. I apologized just in case it was how I said it but we were in that bed all night next to each other fully clothed, wide awake, and pissed. I don’t know what to do…” 

Benny’s downcast eyes pull real sympathy for the younger man from Castiel, “No one deserves to be treated that way, Benny.” 

“Look, I can’t tell you what to do, Benny. Ultimately this is your decision but this is someone you’re supposed to be marrying in less than 30 days. Is this how you want the rest of your life to be?” Dean asks honestly. 

“I…I don’t know. Part of me feels like I should just give her more time but the other part feels like it’s a lost cause. I need to think, can you cover for me with everyone else? I’m gonna go walk the beach and clear my head.” 

“Do what you gotta do, we’ve got you,” Dean responds, patting Benny on the back as he walks  away. “Damn,” Dean mutters, staring after Benny as his slumped shoulders disappear from view.

“I genuinely hope he doesn’t marry that evil woman,” Castiel states, on the verge of telling her off for Benny himself.

“He’s gotta make his own decision, babe,” Dean reminds him sullenly, “We’re not supposed to interfere too much with each others relationships you know that. Rules are rules.” 

“I know,” Castiel agrees, “I’m glad he apologized for his recent behavior.” 

“Me too,” Dean grabs his hand pulling him back towards the restaurant, “Let’s go make up a good cover story for him and enjoy the rest of the night."

It’s only on the way back in that it dawns on Castiel, if Claire and Kaia are here the only people left are…ohhhh they’re good.

Chapter Text

Week Two

Day 8

“So you’re saying…” Dean shakes his head, pacing back and forth while he tries to connect the dots just revealed to him. 

“Yes,” Castiel can’t help but smirk at Dean’s befuddled reaction to the news. 

“This whole time?” He asks, waving his hands about wildly for emphasis almost whacking a random passerby in the face. 

“Yes, this whole time,” Castiel repeats, grabbing hold of Dean’s arms in an attempt to calm him down, “Maybe we shouldn’t talk with our hands right now, my love.” He waves apologetically at the small woman as she rushes away without acknowledging the gesture. Oh well. 

As soon as Castiel came to the realization their brothers were trying to pull a fast one on them he’d pulled Dean back out of the restaurant for a more private conversation. 

“So why all the cloak and dagger bullshit, why not just tell us?” Dean asks, making a valid point Castiel has already been considering. 

“Well, I can’t speak to Sam’s motives as he isn’t my brother but this has Gabriel written all over it,” Castiel huffs, unable to keep his mouth from twisting into a frown of annoyance. “There’s a prank here somewhere waiting to be sprung, I can feel it.”

Dean barks a laugh, “Babe, I doubt Sammy would go along with anything meant to hurt us. I say we roll with it, act like we have no clue and see what those two are up to when they get here, okay?” 

Dean pulls Castiel towards him and he can’t help but fall easily into his fiancé’s loving arms. It helps to settle his ire a bit, enough to agree to at least wait for their brothers to show up before throwing accusations around. For now. 

“Sammy and Gabe. Wow,” Dean shakes his head with a soft chuckle, “I only met your brother once but aren’t they essentially polar opposites? Although now that I think about it Sam did say the guy he was seeing brought out another side to him,” Dean offers, beginning to consider all the clues they missed. 

“Gabriel never let anything slip that I’m aware of though it’s possible it went right over my head,” Castiel mumbles, face still pressed against Dean’s chest. He’s comfortable and unwilling to break the moment just because of a few prying eyes. Dean’s hands begin to stroke down his back soothingly and he let’s his own eyes fall shut as an involuntary sigh leaves his lips. 

“Anybody ever tell you you’re like an oversized cat?” Dean asks, affection ringing clear through his voice. 

“No, you’d be the first. Other than Gabriel and that grumpy cat nonsense,” Castiel pulls back just enough to see the humor glinting in his fiancé’s emerald eyes, “I’ve never been this close to anyone else.” 

The truth of his words hits him harder than he expects as Dean’s earlier reminder to Benny loops back in his mind. In less than a month the man standing before him will be his husband. This is the closest he’s ever been to anyone outside family, the closest he’s ever come to any sort of real commitment and he can’t imagine taking these steps with anyone but Dean. 

Dean’s eyes soften almost unbearably as Castiel looks away, not prepared for the level of love and adoration directed solely at him, “I’m so glad it’s me, I’m more than thrilled it’s you, and I’m damn lucky it’s us. I love you, baby.” 

“And you say you don’t have a way with words,” Castiel jokes, closing his hands around Dean’s, “I love you too, Dean. More than I ever thought myself capable,” Castiel admits, tightening his hold on his hands. He’s ready to spend the next few minutes trying to persuade Dean to ditch the rest of dinner when the loudest wolf whistle he’s ever heard trills out behind him, echoing throughout the lobby and garnering way too much attention.

It could only be one man, Castiel turns and his suspicions are confirmed as he spots the shorter man immediately, “Gabriel.” Speak of the devil. 

“Cassie!!!” Gabriel yells obnoxiously, ditching the rather tall man next to him to sprint right into Castiel’s arms against his will. With the options being to catch his brother or allow Gabriel to awkwardly hang in the air before bringing both of them down by gravity’s force, Castiel opts for catching the little nuisance. 

“Okay, you’ve had your fun, now get off,” Castiel groans, prying Gabriel’s arms from around his neck after a few seconds and lowering him not so gently to the ground. 

The man with Gabriel follows behind him, quickly identified as none other than Sam Winchester once Dean greets him, “Sammy, glad you could finally make it ya big moose.” 

Yes, moose would be a more accurate term for Sam as Dean’s description failed to mention he’s the taller of the two. Way taller. The thought makes Castiel chuckle to himself. The brothers enjoy a much more restrained reunion, slapping each other on the back with genuine smiles and muffled slightly vulgar greetings before eventually separating. 

“Soooo, where is he? I need to give my ‘hurt him and I hurt you’ speech,” Dean chuckles, pretending to look around for Sam’s fiancé. 

“Oh uh, right here Deano,” Gabriel pipes up from next to Castiel, “And don’t you think we all need to give that speech?” He finishes, shooting a pointed glance between Castiel and Dean. 

Sam laughs nervously, rubbing the back of his neck much like Dean, “Orrr we could all not do that, right Cas? Little brothers should stick together.” He says, nudging Castiel playfully in the arm.

He accepts Sam’s attempt at building comradery easily, “Yes, I agree,” Castiel gestures behind them, “We were having drinks in the restaurant, I’m sure everyone will be happy to see you. Come on,” Grabbing Dean’s hand before anyone can object, Castiel pulls him back towards the restaurant with the other two men trailing behind them.

“Fine, but don’t think you two are off the hook for not telling us about this right away,” Dean admonishes jovially as they make their way back to the table. They all know he isn’t truly upset, just a little hurt at being the last to know. 

Gabriel shoots a pleased look Sam’s way which he deflects by pretending to check a loose thread on his button down. Castiel just shakes his head at the ridiculousness of it all, reaching their unoccupied seats at the table. He notices Benny hasn’t yet returned before collective excitement at Sam and Gabriel’s arrival steals his attention away. Hope he’s okay.

“Finally!” Charlie yelps from the end of the table, “What the frack took you so long?”

“I was waiting for him to propose and apparently he was waiting for me, so…” Sam shrugs unapologetically as they both raise their hands, wiggling their fingers to show off their engagement rings. 

“Double proposal!” Gabriel shouts, startling their table neighbors. Sam rolls his eyes fondly, shushing his hyperactive fiancé. 

“Awwww you just might be sappier than your brothers,” Alfie snarks playfully, signaling the waitress for the newcomers. 

The banter continues and Castiel follows along the best he can before he loses track of the conversation. Unfortunately Dean’s too engrossed in catching Sam up on the drama personally so, with nothing better to do, Castiel allows his mind to wander until a voice filters in through his train of thought causing  it to come to a screeching halt. Lisa.

“I can’t tell you how glad I am to have a familiar face here, I swear,” Lisa gushes, holding her glass up to signal a refill request for the waitress. “I mean we met at that party what, ten years ago? God it feels like it was yesterday sometimes.” 

“I just don’t get why we can’t tell anyone though, Lis,” Sarah whispers, low enough for the group to remain oblivious but Castiel hear’s every word. 

“Shhhh,” Lisa immediately quiets Sarah down, “I just don’t want them to make it a thing okay.”

“But…”

“You know,” Lisa cuts Sarah off, “I don’t know how much longer I can do this.”

Sarah’s tone shifts into one of concern, “What’s wrong?”

“I just…I’m not feeling it with Benny, not like I was with Dean,” Lisa slurs, the wine finally kicking in, “And I know he’s off limits I know but he just does it for me, you know? Did you know he’s insta famous?”

Castiel begins to realize Lisa is dangerously close to becoming a real stalker, not just an annoying ex on a dating show. Perfect. 

“No, I get it in a way. I mean I’m completely over Sam but I don’t have that type of connection yet with Dorothy either. Maybe we really should just wait for our wedding night, I’m just not sure, what do you think?” 

“Uh huh,” Lisa responds, clearly not absorbing a word her friend is saying, “I think I might just take this thing off at this point. Fuck it, you know?” She says, from Castiel’s vantage point he sees her gesturing at her ring.

“I really don’t think you should do that, Lisa,” Sarah cautions, anger beginning to edge out the concern, “What about Benny, don’t you care about him at all?”

Lisa huffs a watery laugh, dripping in sarcasm, “Sure, we’ll go with that. But, don’t you think our age difference is an issue?”

“You’re the one who keeps bringing it up, Lis,” Sarah points out, “No one else cares.”

“Whatever, where’s that waitress at?” Lisa glosses over her friends response, getting up to avoid the conversation entirely while in search of more alcohol. 

Castiel immediately turns to Dean ready to tell him what he overheard but seeing him smiling brightly, eyes ablaze with happiness and love, he’s unwilling to burst that bubble even the tiniest bit. He would make heaven wait if it meant one more second of having all of Dean. 

“Telling him right then would have saved you so much drama,” Gabriel unhelpfully shares, digging around for another mini snickers. He’s sure to be swallowed shortly by the pile of wrappers growing steadily around him. Castiel can almost smell sweet freedom. That or the candy’s starting to seep out of Gabriel’s pores. Gross.

“Telling him then would have ruined a beautiful moment,” Castiel replies, unwilling to change his opinion on the matter, even now. “Lisa’s actions are on her, not me.”

“Well I still think you both were idj-“ Gabriel’s statement gets cut off by a loud thump from down the hall. 

“I’ll go check, you stay here,” Castiel jumps up before Gabriel can finish his thought, cursing annoying older brothers with every step. Gabriel reaches out a hand to swat at him as he walks past but Castiel manages to dodge him with his brothers quiet laughter echoing behind him.

Week Two

Day 10

“Whose bright idea was it to get up this early again?” Dean whines as Castiel contemplates manhandling him out of the bed by force. 

Castiel pointedly ignores the way the sheets just cover the parts of Dean he’s become intimately familiar with over the past few days. Dean’s skin has taken on a golden hue and he’s gained even more of the freckles Castiel can’t help but worship when they make love. Just the thought sends his mind back down a path that will end with them not leaving this room at all today. Not the time.

“Don’t you wanna come back to bed, Sunshine?” Dean asks, making grabby hands for Castiel’s bare hips. 

“Dean,” Castiel groans, exasperation bleeding into his tone, “You’re the one who insisted on having breakfast with Sam and Gabriel before our outing.” 

“That was last night’s Dean, this mornings Dean says different. Come back to bed pleasseee,” Dean begs, peering up at Castiel through his full lashes as his peridot eyes hungrily scan his naked form. Dean knows exactly what he’s doing as Castiel feels his arousal ramp up. Fuck. 

Castiel almost breaks, but a promise is a promise and they’re going to keep theirs to Sam and Gabriel so he works to stomp his own needs down for the moment. “If you get up right now and get ready for me I might consider doing that thing you asked for later,” Castiel offers, sly smirk gracing his lips knowing he’s got him.

Dean pops up like a prairie dog out of a hole in the ground, “Really!?”

“Yes, Dean. Now, go get ready,” Castiel chuckles lightly, waving his fiancé away as Dean leaps out of the bed. Dean plants a quick kiss to his cheek on his way to the bathroom. Finally. 

Castiel eagerly follows behind him as they move around each other, perfectly in sync, completing their morning routines. Dean playfully bumps his hip as they brush their teeth making Castiel roll his eyes, feeling them crinkle in the corners with his unbidden smile. He leans over once they’ve both rinsed, pulling Dean into a short, minty kiss that still manages to short circuit his brain. Dean pulls away first with a soft brush of their noses, trailing one hand down Castiel’s chest as he hands him his deodorant with the other. Once they’re both presentable, Castiel takes Dean’s hand in his own as they make the journey to the downstairs lobby to meet up with their brothers. 

“They still haven’t told us anything,” Dean reminds him as the elevator descends to the first floor. 

“I told you Gabriel’s up to something,” Castiel responds, unwilling to let his theory about Gabriel go. 

“I’m just gonna ask them. Point blank,” Dean decides as they exit the elevator, spotting Gabriel and Sam standing outside the restaurant. 

Apparently Dean was being about as literal as Castiel usually is, as soon as they walk up to their brothers he begins with rapid fire questions. 

“Why didn’t you tell us? Why didn’t you tell me, Sammy? Are you and Gabriel planning something?” Dean demands, the final question emphasized with a suspicious lift of his eyebrow. Wow, that is hot. 

“Whoooaaaa slow it down there, buckaroo,” Gabriel replies, bewildered but unable to keep the amusement off his face at the state of Dean. “Why would we be planning something other than our wedding?” 

Dean shoots a guilty glance at Castiel, “No reason, just heard you like pranking people b-but that’s not the real issue here and you both know it.” Nice save. 

Sam musters an apologetic look, “Look we’ll explain it all once we sit down, okay?”

Dean reluctantly nods as they follow the other couple into the restaurant to be seated. Once they’ve ordered and are waiting for Dean’s tower of pancakes, bacon and eggs along with Castiel and Sam’s more modest fruit bowls and Gabriel’s mountain of sugar dusted French toast, Sam begins to speak. 

“In the beginning, we weren’t planning on not telling you guys I just wanna say that first. It didn’t really become more of an unspoken agreement until you two got so serious,” Sam admits, running his hands through his shaggy hair as he fixes them with his wide open stare. These must be the ‘puppy dog eyes’ Dean warned him about. Very effective. 

“We didn’t want to be a distraction or excuse for you two ding dongs not to pursue each other,” Gabriel picked the story back up where Sam had left off, “Cassie would have self sabotaged thinking he was helping me and Sam thought the same about you, Dean. So really we lied for a good reason.” 

Gabriel shoots them a cheesy smile and a thumbs up, clearly hoping the explanation smoothed things over. The look on Dean’s face says it hasn’t and Castiel agrees. 

“I can understand wanting to make sure neither of us pulled a runaway bride but I still wish you would’ve told me, Sam. You dragged me along to do this thing together and I feel like I missed half of your experience, man,” Dean responds forlornly, clear hurt dimming his eyes instantly. Castiel rubs a thumb across the back of his hand in support. 

“I’m sorry, Dean. I wasn’t trying to hurt you or shut you out,” Sam responds, standing to reach across the table for a quick apology hug. 

“Awwww, you wanna hug too, Cassie Poo?” Gabriel asks, moving to stand. 

“Absolutely not, Gabriel. An apology will suffice,” he answers, squirming away from Gabriel’s reaching arms. 

Gabriel stands up, dramatically clearing his throat and placing a hand over his heart before reciting, “I solemnly swear not to lie to you again, Cassie.” 

With an over-exaggerated bow, Gabriel sits back down to laughter around their table. The display warms Castiel slightly, allowing him to relax enough to enjoy the time with their brothers without worry. 

______________________________

Dean pats his stomach with pleasure, having demolished his tower of pancakes, sweet sweet bacon, and eggs in record time. Cas and Sam are still working through their fruit bowls aka nasty ass rabbit food as Gabe continues to inhale his French toast. Sammy was shocked when Dean willingly forked over three pancakes, without complaint or grumbling beforehand, when Cas asked for them. Yeah, under normal circumstances Dean doesn’t share food but it was Cas and those ocean blue eyes pinned him with that look. He didn’t stand a chance and now he’s paying the price as Cas happily enjoys his pancakes, moaning with each bite driving Dean crazy the whole time. Still, he doesn’t regret having a part in making his fiancé happy even if it means he has to shield his crotch as they get up to go on their planned outing. 

“We’ll see you later at dinner,” Sammy shouts back at them as he and Gabriel walk away in the other direction to make it to their helicopter ride. 

“You can still come with us, Deano,” Gabriel offers not so innocently. 

Dean proclaims loudly, “Hell no! Just bring my brother back alive or you die,” barking out a laugh at his soon to be brother in laws expression as they turn in the other direction to leave.

“You know he asked me if you were serious after you walked away?” Sam asks with a snort of a laugh as he pauses the tv. 

“What makes you think I wasn’t?” Dean asks, smirk growing wider as Sammy’s grin morphs into bitch face #26. 

“Whatever, jerk,” he rolls his eyes, turning back to the tv.

“Long as he keeps his head on a swivel, we’re good Sammy,” Dean prods, breaking out into honest to god giggles when Sam’s frown deepens further.

“Im just kidding you know I love that little troll,” Dean reluctantly admits, “Don’t tell him I ever spoke those words or so help me I’ll cut your hair off in your sleep.” 

“You wouldn’t.”

“Can you be sure?”

Sam considers for a moment before growling out in defeat, “Dammit, fine…” 

Dean sinks back into his comfy armchair throne, pressing play on the remote while Sam pretends to sulk on the sofa. 

“And you’re sure this is what you wanna do?” Dean asks again, looking to Cas with concern furrowing his brow once they’re outside. 

They’re supposed to be headed to a local market to buy gifts for their friends back home but Dean’s not so sure Cas has thought this through. The market will be crowded and Dean’s worried Cas won’t be comfortable there, but he’s insisted. 

“I know why you’re worried Dean but don’t be. I’ll be fine and if I’m not, we’ll leave. Okay?” Cas easily lays out, “I can’t let fear stop me from trying. If there’s anything this experience has taught me it’s that I’m capable of much more than I ever gave myself credit for.” Cas pins him with those sparkling blues, “I don’t have to sit closed up in an office all day staring at numbers just because I don’t always ‘get’ people. I want to do more things like this, and I want to do them with you.” 

Dean takes a moment to really look at the strong, determined man in front of him and acquiesces immediately, “I trust you and I trust that you’ll tell me what you need if you need to.” 

“I will, Dean. I promise, now let’s go,” Cas turns to climb into the shuttle for the market and Dean follows, more than happy to see no one else from the show is onboard as they pull away. 

In less than five minutes the shuttle stops at a colorful outdoor market, the stalls are full of sellers and their wares ready for purchase. Dean and Cas descend the steps of the shuttle and enter the marketplace, filing in amongst the warm bodies of the other shoppers as they wander the narrow dirt aisles. Dean can’t begin to say he has any experience with anxiety on the level Cas deals with but he can be there for him if he needs him, keeping a comfortable hold on his hand as they walk. They browse for a bit with few words shared between them as Dean keeps his eyes on Cas. For his part, Cas’ eyes are darting around taking everything in as they walk past a stall selling hand made jewelry and another with handmade bags. They’re just passing a stall with beautiful shells when Dean notices something’s off with Cas. His entire body language shifts as Cas pulls his arms tight to his sides abruptly removing his hand from Dean’s as he crosses his arms over his body, fingers dancing away nervously across his biceps. Cas’ eye movement becomes faster as his breathing shallows and he begins to rock back and forth on his heels. Other shoppers don’t seem to notice his distress as they push past the pair, bumping Cas repeatedly and throwing him further into a panic. 

“Hey hey hey, come over here,” Dean says softly, pulling Cas off to the side so he can check in with him. His breathing is still labored and his eyes continue darting around rapidly in a way that’s worrying to Dean. 

Dean uses the technique Cas taught him on the plane, pretty sure Cas may be having a panic attack from the crowds, “Focus on me and my voice, Cas. Name three things you see around us, can you do that for me?”

Cas takes a few choppy, uneven inhales, “Th-that dog over there,” he says pointing shakily, “the flowers next to you, a-and the bee above your head.”

“There’s a bee above my head?!” Dean shouts, forgetting he’s supposed to be there for Cas as he begins to swat at the air around him frantically. 

The burst of movement seems to pull Cas fully into the moment, with a bee in peril hanging in the balance, “Don’t swat at it, Dean. Stop!”

By that point, Dean’s spun in a full circle trying to make sure the bees gone and turns back to Cas with an apologetic pout, “Sorry I know I was supposed to be helping you. I’m not a bee murderer I swear.” 

Castiel lilts a slightly shaky laugh, “It’s okay, Dean. You did help just don’t swat at my friends, okay?” 

“Deal,” Dean readily agrees, “Now, are you ready to get outta this place? I have a backup plan I think you’ll love.” Dean admits, hoping Cas will agree to leave. 

Cas' eyes shine at the possibility of salvaging their day, “Yes, please. You were right this is much more of an endeavor than I thought. We can go now.” He clings to Dean’s side as they begin to make their way out of the busy market. 

“At least you tried, babe,” Dean soothes, wrapping his arm tighter around Cas and planting a soft kiss to his forehead as he leads him back to the shuttle pickup area. 

Dean was smart, planning ahead just in case Cas needed to leave the market. He has a plan B all set and a stashed bag with their swim gear on the shuttle ready to bring with them. 

“So, where are we going?” Cas asks as they wait for the shuttle to return, “I love you but right now isn’t a great time for surprises.” 

“We,” Dean responds, gesturing between the two of them, “are going solo snorkeling. Just me, you, and the…snorkleperson?” He scoffs at Cas’ laughter, “Whatever they’re called, look the point is there won’t be any crowds. We’ll have to get on a boat but we’re staying close to shore so nothing to worry about. It’s perfect.” 

Cas pulls Dean in for a chaste, albeit shaky, kiss before responding breathily, “Have I told you how lucky I am today?”

Dean beams at the now familiar question, “Nope, not yet.” 

Their tiny bubble of love is temporarily popped when the shuttle driver pulls up next to them and opens the doors. 

“Hey, Ted. Thanks for doing this,” Dean greets the shuttle driver as he and Cas climb back on board. He’s happy to see the bag he left with the driver the night before in the front seat. 

“No problem, happy to help,” the older man replies, closing the doors and driving back out to the main road. 

The ride to the dock is short, spent curled into one another watching the view of palm trees swaying in beams of sunlight as they fly past. Every part of the island displays an indescribable beauty, from the culture to the stunning landscapes, though none hold a candle to the man at his side. Sap. 

The shuttle soon comes to a stop at the dock and they disembark, thanking Ted again and arranging for a pickup in about an hour. Bag in hand, Dean leads Cas towards the boat rented out for them for the day, excited to share this experience with his love.

“This is it?” Cas asks, jaw dropped in shock and eyes twinkling with amusement as he looks at the name emblazoned on the side of the boat once they reach her.

“Ain’t she a beaut?” Dean asks, slapping the side of the boat, The Salty Swallow, their chariot for the afternoon. 

“Dean,” Cas chokes out in between full body cackles, “You can’t be serious.”

“One, you can blame this on Balth. He’s the one who found the boat and rented it for us and B. Not gonna lie, once I heard the name I was fully on board,” Dean counts off the reasons, unable to keep from bursting into laughter from Cas’ expression of disbelief. 

“Whatever you say, Dean,” Cas shakes his head, running his hands through his hair, “So where’s the captain?”

“That’d be me,” A man shouts, appearing seemingly out of nowhere leaning over the railing above them. “Let’s get you two lovebirds on board so we can get going.” 

“Ay, ay, Captain!” Dean can’t help but shout SpongeBob style, chastised immediately by the grimace gracing the man’s face as they climb aboard. 

“Is it out of your system?” the man deadpans, at Dean’s sheepish nod he continues in a friendlier tone, “Good. My name is Captain Kravitz, it’s not an official title that’s just what they call me,” he shrugs good-naturedly, “I’ll be steering this boat and guiding you once we get in the water. Either of you done this before?”

Dean and Cas both shake their heads no so, after they formally introduce themselves, the captain goes over all the safety instructions as he steers them away from the dock and into open water. 

At first it’s a bit overwhelming but once the boat stops and the captain can demonstrate every step as he explains, it seems less daunting. He and Cas go through the process of checking each others safety equipment as they gear up to dive into the water, with the captain making the final check for both of them. Once he’s given the all clear they dive overboard, landing with a splash into the salty sea. Cas’ wet hair flattens adorably onto his forehead and Dean can’t help but brush it back, caressing his damp skin lightly before the captain pulls their attention away. 

They aren’t going far, the captain directs them to swim just below the surface, exposing the colorful world hidden beneath the ocean waves. Cas excitedly points out a school of bright yellow fish swimming by lazily while Dean’s fascinated by the coral clustered all around the sea floor. Cas looks gorgeous beneath the sea, glowing and ethereal as he flits from one place to the next. Like a merman. For a moment he gets lost in thoughts of Cas with a merman tail until the man himself pulls on Dean’s arm pointing towards an octopus crawling across the sand, changing colors as it rolls along. Holy shit, that’s awesome! 

The rest of their time snorkeling is spent swimming lazily next to one another as the captain leads them around the ocean floor. By the end, they sort of have a way of communicating via hand gestures but Dean can’t say he isn’t happy when the hour runs out and they’re forced back onto the boat headed towards dry land. If he knows Cas there’s probably a million things he’ll want to talk about that they couldn’t say underwater and Dean can’t wait to hear them all.

*****

Later that night, the plan is to meet up with everyone else for a couple’s pool party production put together. They’ll have free run of the pool and its three poolside bars for the whole night. What’s the worst that could happen. 

Dean and Cas arrive a little earlier than intended so they sit poolside, with their feet in the cool water, discussing their day. 

“Can I ask you a question?” Dean tentatively asks after debating with himself for longer than he’d like to admit. 

Cas looks up, baby blues flashing with happiness and love, “Sure, ask me anything.” 

He intertwines his hand with Cas’ before speaking, “Earlier you said you understand numbers more than people and you’ve said that a couple of times now. I just was wondering…how do you deal with it all, having bad anxiety and ASD?,” Seeing Cas’ eyes shift down he quickly backtracks, “I mean, you don’t have to tell me if you don’t want to but I know it’s different for everyone so…” 

Cas cuts Dean off mid explanation, “…I think the anxiety got so bad because of my issues with people. I avoid them so when I do end up in social situations I get overwhelmed easily and I panic, but doing things like what we did today is good for me. Coming here was actually a huge step as you can imagine.”

“I’m guessing the fact we got to know each other before spending time together in person helped,” Dean considers, proven right with Cas’ nod of agreement. 

“Tremendously. With everyone else, it was a little nerve-wracking living with strangers but if I got overwhelmed I had a room to go to and a door I could close. Gabriel may be obnoxious but he helps as well. He’s familiar in a very unfamiliar place, you help too,” Cas explains, eyes looking out over the view of the ocean past the pool. 

The only thing visible at this time is the white caps of the waves as they roll over the sandy beach, but it’s peaceful to stare at and listen to the shushshushshush of the waves crashing on the shore. Cas explained the sight and sounds can be calming for him when Dean asked a few days ago.  

“I hope so, I may not know what the hell I’m doing half the time but I love you and I wanna support you,” Dean responds honestly, hoping the words ring true to Cas. “There’s nothing wrong with needing a little help sometimes.”

Cas’ lips squash down into a thin line at his words and Dean knows he somehow managed to say the wrong thing. Shit. 

“Not according to my parents,” Cas snipes with a weighted sigh, smile now gone from his eyes as well, “I was told I was being ‘difficult for no reason’ and to ‘suck it up’ more times than I can count. I remember having these tantrums as a kid, I just…couldn’t get myself to stop.” Cas visibly shudders at the memory but continues speaking, “It was like watching from outside myself almost, I already felt terrible knowing I wasn’t handling myself the way they wanted but I just couldn’t stop…” Cas squeaks out through the tears now falling freely down his red cheeks. Dean can’t stand to see his love distressed like this, immediately wishing he’d never brought the topic up. Great job, Winchester.

Before he can apologize and redirect the conversation, Cas continues his recount of his painful childhood memories, “It caused major issues in school, but my parents just accepted I was a ‘troubled child’ and left it at that,” Cas says, wiping tears from his face as they thankfully begin to dry up, “Gabriel had his suspicions but with the way our parents were he knew better than to say anything and there wasn’t much he could do once he was kicked out. Things really hit the fan once I was kicked out and the upheaval revealed the truth, I’d just gotten very good at ‘masking’. I needed Gabriel more than ever back then and I don’t know what I would have done without him…” Cas turns to Dean and he’s glad to see the warmth returning to his eyes, even though they’re still tinged with well worn sadness. 

“I understand and experience this world a little differently than everyone else but I don’t have a ‘broken chassis’ as my parents used to say,” Cas states, that fiery determination lighting up with an otherworldly glow behind his cobalt blues. 

Dean can’t believe anyone would speak to their child that way, he leans in planting kisses all over Cas’ tear stained face whispering words of endearment as he brushes his lips over Cas’ warm skin. When he pulls back, Cas’ face is red for an entirely different reason, mirth and bashfulness plastered all over his features. Luckily, Dean’s saved from having any conversation about his mushy display by their friends arrival to the party.

Cas stands, scrubbing his hands over his face to hide the evidence of their emotional talk, “I’m going to the bathroom to freshen up. I’ll be right back.” 

Dean nods, leaning back and splashing his feet in the water as he watches Cas’ form getting smaller and smaller until it disappears inside the door to the hotel. If he spent most of that time with his eyes zeroed in on his fiancé's plump ass, that’s his business. 

Dean’s thoughts are abruptly halted by the last person he wants to speak with tonight. Lisa. He searches the pool for Benny realizing he hasn’t seen much of his friend over the last few days but he’s nowhere to be found. Huh. Realizing his options are to literally run away from the woman or stick it out while he waits for Cas he opts for staying, he won’t let her ruin the night for him and with no phones it isn’t like he could just text Cas to meet him back in their room. 

“How’s your night going, Dean?” Lisa asks, taking the liberty of filling the space Cas vacated to his right.

Dean scoots over, leaving more than a respectable amount of space between them, “Cas and I are having a wonderful night, thanks for asking.” 

Lisa’s face crumples for a brief moment at the mention of Cas before smoothing out again, “I’m happy for you. I saw you leaving this morning, is that your brother?”

Dean answers the seemingly innocent question wondering how she could have missed Sam showing up two nights before, “Yeah, that was my brother.” Short answers, maybe she’ll get the hint and go away.

“You’re both such handsome men…” Lisa responds, lowering her tone in what he guesses is supposed to be seduction. It’s not hitting the mark. 

“Where’s Benny, Lisa?” Dean asks pointedly, no longer willing to force friendly conversation with someone who lacks boundaries. 

She rolls her eyes, “Up in our room, he refuses to come down. You know, maybe you can talk some sense into him, he’s acting like a whiny bitch and I’m getting tired of it. You on the other hand…” She says, attempting to reach out for his arm but he moves out of her reach, “I bet you know just what to do where it counts…” the intention of her words is clear and Dean’s had enough but before he can tell her off a shadow falls over the both of them. Cas. 

“Sorry to interrupt…actually no I’m not sorry,” Cas answers honestly to Dean’s immediate amusement, “I use that phrase all the time because it’s what’s expected when it makes absolutely no sense to apologize if you’re not sorry. Lisa, I don’t trust you and I don’t want you near my fiancé, therefore I’m not sorry. It’s much like ‘killing two birds with one stone’, why are we killing birds? Or ‘ride or die’, where are we going and why are we in danger of dying?” 

Cas’ stream of consciousness is abruptly cut off as Dean launches himself up from his seated position by the pool, smashing his lips into Cas’ and effectively shutting him up. 

Dean pulls back just enough to murmur, “Never change,” before swooping back in for more. 

It takes Cas a moment to return the kiss, probably startled by the sudden shift in mood but he recovers quickly as Dean continues to press his love and passion into each slide and shift of their lips. The moment is broken by a throat clearing off to the side. Oh right. 

“We’re leaving now,” Cas announces, wrapping an arm around Dean, “Have a nice night, Lisa,” turning to Dean Cas continues, “see there’s another one, why say it if you don’t actually mean it. Yet, it’s considered rude if you don’t. It’s tiresome, Dean.” Cas says, shaking his head. 

Dean’s busting a gut at this point trying to keep most of the laughter inside, not wanting Cas to think he’s laughing at him. No all of this is for the look on Lisa’s face, a mix of embarrassment and outright confusion. Fucking priceless.

Finally he manages to choke out, “I know, being human is hard babe.” 

“Yes, it is. I wonder what it’d be like to be a bumblebee for a day. You’d still love me, right?” Cas begins to pull him away from the pool and back towards the entrance to the elevators. 

Dean chuckles at the absurd yet adorable question, “Yes, I’d still love you, angel.” 

“Good,” Cas pecks him lightly on the lips, “We need to talk.” 

Dean feels the blood drain from his face and his knees almost give out as his hand goes limp between them but Cas quickly amends his statement as they walk onto the elevator. 

“I apologize I worded that poorly based on your physical reaction,” Cas responds immediately, “I overheard something a few nights ago, but I’ll tell you when we get upstairs. I’m not leaving you, Dean.” He soothes, rubbing slow circles over the back of Dean’s hand. 

His body immediately relaxes, slumping against Cas’ side, “Sorry, those words usually aren’t followed up by a pleasant conversation.”

Cas nods in understanding as they exit the elevator and make the short walk to their room down the hall. All Dean wants is to pull Cas into the shower to wash the day off, maybe get some sexy times in while they’re at it but Cas wants to talk and he’s admittedly a little curious. So instead, Dean pulls off a few layers and gets comfy at the edge of the bed with Cas following suit. 

“So, what’s up?” Dean asks, turning to face his fiancé. 

“Did you know Lisa has known Sarah for over ten years?” Cas asks, continuing before Dean’s had a chance to respond, “I overheard them talking but Lisa won’t let Sarah tell anyone. Not only that, but Lisa told Sarah she’s ready to take her ring off because she thinks she’s too old for Benny and she isn’t physically attracted to him.” 

“What the…” Dean’s barely got the words out of his mouth when Cas cuts him off again. Shocked that there’s more Dean shuts up, listening as he continues revealing the information. 

“I think Lisa’s been watching us and more specifically you. She told Sarah, again, she wishes she was with you and brought up the instagram you told me about. I’m worried this isn’t going to end when the cameras stop rolling, Dean. I’m concerned about Benny too…” Cas leans forward resting his head in his hands as he swipes his fingers through his hair. 

Dean pulls him up and out of the position he’d begun to curl into until he’s flush against his body, practically in his lap, “Don’t worry, we’ll talk to Benny. We’ll fix all of it, even if we need to speak to whoever’s in charge. It’s gonna be okay.” 

Dean’s mind is automatically jumping into fix it mode. He has to contact Balth or Meg and ask who would handle something like this. But, before all of that they need to tell Benny everything.

Chapter Text

Sam pauses the tv, tossing the remote to Dean as he stands mumbling, “Bathroom break,” and rushing out of the room.

Dean told him those burritos were a bad idea, now he’s dealing with the consequences. When he remembers there’s only one bathroom his face twists up in disgust at the thought of the smell alone. 

Nasty. 

“I’m gonna grab more snacks while you…do that,” Dean trails off, walking into the kitchen and searching through their dwindling food stores. 

Dean grabs a bag of salt and vinegar chips along with a bag of bbq and Sammy’s baby carrots. Snatching up a bottle of beer for himself and a kombucha for Sammy’s delicate stomach, he carries his bounty back to the coffee table in front of the tv. Sam shuffles back into the room, expression both pleased and pained at the same time. Dean silently passes over the kombucha, the stuff is nasty as hell but Sammy swears it helps. Sam nods his thanks, accepting the bottle as he takes a few sips and settles back on the sofa. 

“Ready?” Dean asks, grabbing the remote to continue the marathon. 

“Yeah,” Sam responds, already sounding better. “It’s so weird seeing myself on tv like this.”

“I guess, but at least I look smokin’ hot on camera,” Dean jokes, busting out with laughter at Sam’s grunt of annoyance. “Not my fault I got all the looks ya brainiac.” 

“Dean,” Sam replies in warning.

“I’m joking calm down,” Dean chuckles at how quickly Sam’s ready to defend him against himself, “We’re both smart, dumbass, I’m just incredibly more attractive than you.” 

“Jerk,” Sam grumbles, unable to keep the smirk off his face. 

Dean presses play, responding almost on autopilot, “Bitch.” 

Week Two

Days 13-15

The next morning, the couple decides to execute their plan as soon as possible. Preferably before productions farewell brunch in a few hours. Soon, everyone will pile back onto the plane headed to their new temporary apartments. Benny deserves to know the truth before things with Lisa progress any further. 

Reluctantly, the couple chooses to forego morning sex in favor of preparing to relay awful news to their friend.

“Ready?” Cas asks, easily moving into his space to steal a quick kiss before leading him out of the room without an answer. 

“Guess so,” Dean mutters anyway, following his fiancé’s lead as they march towards the elevator. 

As luck would have it, Benny’s already waiting for it to arrive. 

“Hey,” he greets in a subdued tone, cheery smile absent from his face. “How’d last night go?”

Dean looks to Cas to find ocean eyes already shifting his way. A slight nod is all the agreement he needs. With Benny practically giving them the perfect opener, it’s now or never.

“Actually, can we talk Benny?” Dean asks, gesturing back towards their room with the hand still tightly held in Cas’ now slightly sweaty grip. 

Benny’s eyes squint in suspicion, “…okay…”

The trio walk together back down the hall with an awkward silence falling over them up until the door closes with a soft snick behind them. 

“Just so you know I’m not into…” Benny begins, hands up as though he’s letting them down easy.

Cas chuckles heartily, “Neither are we, Benny. Apologies if this seems strange we just need to speak with you alone regarding a sensitive matter.”

He nods unsurely, waiting for one of them to continue so Dean picks it up from there.

“Normally I’d ease into something like this but it’s not like we have a ton of time to work with here so…” Dean tries to soften the blow as he reveals, “Lisa told Sarah a few things last night we think you deserve to know…it might change your mind about who you’ve agreed to marry.”

“Stop,” Benny puts a hand up before another word can pass Dean’s lips. 

The couple looks on in confusion, he’s sure the perplexed look on Cas’ face is mirrored on his own. 

“Benny, you don’t understand this is important…” Cas tries and fails to convince their friend.

“I…I made a decision last night,” Benny reveals, eyes flashing with determination as his shoulders square up tightly. “I’m not goin’ home a failure. It’s only been a week and a half, Lisa just needs some time to adjust. It’s not easy,” the man huffs a humorless laugh. “But, we’re workin’ things out. I appreciate your concern, but it ain’t necessary.”

Dean’s shocked speechless at his friends refusal to hear them out. A glimmer of uncertainty lingers in the man’s ice blue eyes but it's gone before Dean can address it. 

Cas manages to pull himself out of his own disbelief first, asking, “Benny, are you sure? You don’t have to…”

Benny cuts him off, “Yes. I…I’ll see you two downstairs.”

With that, he leaves the room without another word. 

Dean flops down on the edge of the bed shocked completely silent. He’s probably not the best person to advocate for not burying emotions or ignoring clear red flags but this…

“…this isn’t a small thing. He’s still gonna marry that woman and she…” Dean doesn’t manage to finish the sentence, instead heaving a loaded sigh as he buries his face in his hands. 

Cas takes the seat next to him, finally finding his words, “I know. But there’s nothing we can do, we tried to warn him.”

Honestly, even that isn’t technically allowed and maybe that’s why Benny refused to hear a word of it, but they had to try. Dean thought his friend would be open to the conversation with how miserable he’s been the past few days but…something has shifted and he isn’t sure if it’s good or bad.

“Come on,” Cas nudges him out of his ruminating. “We’re going to be late.”

*****

“You left one of your socks,” Sam points under the bed as he finishes packing his own bags. 

The apartments weren’t quite ready when they returned so everyone was sent back to the ‘dorms’ for the night. Being forced to experience a night without Cas after having him within reaching distance for the last week wasn’t exactly fun. Dean can’t wait to have him all to himself in their own apartment, hence the rushed packing and almost forgotten sock. 

“Thanks Sammy,” Dean mumbles, reaching for the sock and throwing it into his duffle bag on top of his boxers. 

He’s zipping it shut when he feels a warm pair of arms wrap around his waist from behind, the scent that follows clueing him in on the identity of the intruder. 

“I can smell your cologne,” he chuckles, “Kinda useless to sneak up on me, babe.”

Cas joins in, responding as he laughs, “I wasn’t trying to.”

Dean turns in his arms, finally getting the full view of his gorgeous fiancé. He’d pinch himself just to confirm once again this is real but with Cas’ body pressed against his, there’s no denying this man’s existence. 

Dean’s incredibly fucking lucky. 

He can’t help but get lost in those baby blues for a moment, eyes drifting slowly down to Cas’ tantalizingly close lips before an obnoxious clearing of Sam’s throat reminds him they aren’t alone. 

“Can the two of you take the eye fucking somewhere else? I’d rather not puke all over my clean clothes,” Sam snarks, hazel eyes bright with the amusement ringing clear in his tone.

“Think of it as preparation,” Dean teases, smile growing with every word. “Three days back home with no escape from me and Cas. Sounds fun, right?”

Gabe follows Cas into the room before Sam can respond, effectively shutting his little brother up with a display Dean would’ve rather not witnessed. 

“Come on, seriously?” Dean groans, abruptly turning to the wall so as not to be scarred even more by the impromptu make out session. 

“I believe this would fall under payback, Dean.” Cas helpfully points out, delectable lips twisted up into a small smirk.

Dean grunts, blindly grabbing for Cas’ hand so they can make a speedy escape out of the room.

“Difference is we weren’t kissing, Cas,” Dean points out, leading his fiancé down the hall to the common area. 

“Yet,” Cas slyly points out, smirk turning smug as the seconds pass.

Yeah, given about thirty more seconds, chances are Dean would’ve closed in for the kill if it weren’t for Gabe’s ill timed entrance. 

Reluctantly, he admits, “I guess you’re right. Still…ew.”

Cas nods rapidly in agreement, “I’d prefer not to witness Gabe ‘putting the moves’ on Sam. It’s…unsettling.”

“I want ‘em happy, just not where I can see it,” Dean jokes, leading Cas to their final destination as they settle side by side on the couch. 

“Agreed,” Cas murmurs, suddenly much closer than when they first sat down. 

He’s lost, drowning in ocean eyes as they drift closer and closer into each others space.

Dean only manages to get a tease of what could be, lips barely brushing in sweet anticipation, when they’re interrupted yet again. This time by Bal.

The man comes in just long enough to shout, slightly frantically, “We’re leaving, be outside and ready to go in five minutes!”

With that, the harried blonde rushes back out the door and down the hall, probably to give the same message to the other couples. 

“Guess it’s time, Cas,” Dean murmurs, following through with one chaste kiss on his fiancé’s warm pout before pulling away. “Let’s go see our apartment, love.”

Cas’ blush deepens, from the kiss or the pet name he isn’t sure, but it’s a sight he’ll never grow tired of. The man nods slowly, following Dean’s lead as he pulls him back to standing so they can both grab their bags. Luckily, Sam and Gabe have disentangled themselves, trailing behind he and Cas out of the dorm and through the doors leading outside. 

In the bright sun, Dean can see the others gathered with their bags as well. They’re all walking towards the bus that’s supposed to take them to the apartments rented out for the show. Dean understands what they’re trying to accomplish, many relationships fail once they enter the cohabitation stage. Honestly it’s genius to have them live together before the wedding, not after.

“If I do something annoying, you gotta tell me. Okay?” Dean repeats for probably the millionth time. He’s never lived with anyone besides Sammy, this is gonna be a huge adjustment.

Cas squeezes his hand a few times, promising, “I will, as long as you do the same.”

“Deal,” Dean easily accepts, it helps knowing Cas is just as clueless as he is when it comes to this process. 

It’s not like he has odd habits or anything, Dean’s just a little worried. Even though they mesh well in every other instance so far, living together could be their first stumbling block if they don’t keep up their promise to one another. 

From that point on things begin to move quickly since they’re already behind schedule according to the flustered crew. The couples swiftly load onto the bus with their belongings for what turns out to be a short ride a few streets over to an unassuming brick apartment building. 

“We’ve rented out every vacant apartment they had available in this building for each couple,” Bal explains from the front of the bus. “Spacious, loft style, furnished with the best Ikea has to offer, blah blah blah they’re beautiful inside.” 

Meg and the others giggle at his description as the man continues. 

“There will be a small gathering by the pool later tonight for those that are interested but for now go, explore. Meg and I will hand you your key fobs for your apartments on the way off of the bus. That fob also works for accessing the building itself along with any of the amenities like the gym or coffee bar. Have fun, kids!”

An uneasy pit begins to form in his gut at the reality of this moment. This will be their first ‘home’ together. It’s a big fucking deal. 

Damn near reading his mind once again, Cas murmurs into his ear, “It’s okay to be nervous, I am too. But, it’s going to be alright, Dean. We can do this.”

He takes a deep breath, calmed by his fiancé’s words enough to follow his every step off of the bus like the lovestruck fool he’s become. 

We can do this.

*****

The next morning, Dean wakes in stages. Golden light streams through the sheer curtains in the bedroom filtering through his closed eyes first. It’s only then he becomes fully aware of what woke him up in the first place. Slick, wet heat easing slowly down his hardened cock as strong hands grip his hips to keep him still. 

“Shit, Cas,” Dean moans out, lazy smile growing wider by the second from the surprise. “Keep goin’, angel.”

Instead, he’s deprived of the sweet suction his fiancé’s mouth offered, groaning internally at the abrupt end to his unexpected pleasure. 

Pulling off just as slowly, as a blush creeps across his cheeks, Cas questions, “It’s okay? I didn’t want to presume, but you looked so beautiful. I couldn’t help myself…”

“Presume away, love,” Dean murmurs, caressing the back of Cas’ neck in appreciation. 

The man shifts, cobalt eyes darkening with desire as he murmurs, “Good…I really don’t want to stop.”

The response sends a zing of want down his spine, building ever higher with Cas’ renewed efforts. Dean gets lost in his fiancé’s determined ministrations, startled for a moment when a liberally lubed finger joins the party. 

Popping open eyes he hadn’t realized he’d closed, Dean watches his dark haired beauty working overtime to make him come. Skin already glistening with sweat, eyes darkening further with desire. He wants this man, forever. His angel, the man that’s already surpassing every single fucked up relationship Dean’s endured over the years, now making him lose his damn mind in the best ways.

“Mmmmm,” Dean can’t help but moan lowly as his love pushes one searching digit in slowly, finding its target quickly and releasing another gasp from his lips.

Soon, one becomes two as Cas continues swirling his talented tongue while Dean writhes and shakes above him just barely avoiding thrusting up. Cas makes the decision for him, placing both of his hands on the back of his head, giving permission with his baby blues. Dean doesn’t hesitate, starting out slow as his fiancé continues his assault on his prostate. 

Throwing his head back on the pillow, he murmurs through gasping breaths, “Close…”

The admission causes Cas to pull off entirely. He’ll deny the whine that follows for the rest of his days. But, when he notices the condom in his love’s hands, the complaints cease entirely. His fiancé makes quick work of slathering lube over himself as Dean wraps his bow legs around Cas’ waist.

“Ready?” he asks, staring deeply into Dean’s eyes searching for confirmation. 

He doesn’t make the man wait, nodding up and down like a bobble head he answers, “More than…”

Without another word Cas lines up, pushing in slowly as twin gasps of need flow free between them. Dean moves up on his elbows capturing Cas’ lips in a kiss, tongues tangling together as it naturally deepens, stealing his breath away. His fiancé pulls out slowly before proceeding to make Dean’s brain go offline as he slams back in to the hilt, brushing right against that special spot with his measured efforts.

“Cassss,” he moans lowly, succumbing to his fiancé’s trail of kisses nipping and teasing down his neck as waves of pleasure threaten to set him adrift.

Pulling back, Cas pins him with his sapphire eyes filled with a combination of lust and love Dean’s never had pointed at him before. The intense focus ignites a fire deep in Dean’s belly as he edges closer and closer to bursting. Sensing as much, Cas slides a hand between them stroking slowly, paying special attention to the tip as he matches each thrust, squeezing every second he can out of the intensity growing between them. 

Dean’s torn between thrusting up into Cas’ hand or onto his cock so he settles for a world rocking combination of both, lighting up every nerve as they move in sync together. He’s hit with a rush of unexpected love almost bringing him to tears.

This isn’t just sex, definitely not fucking. No, Castiel James Novak has gone full on sap, pulling Dean along with him as they make love slow and sweet, christening the bedroom of their apartment. It’s only an added bonus that it happens to be a very important day.

Cas reads his mind once again as he murmurs between deep kisses, “Happy Birthday, Dean…”

He’s almost beyond intelligent language, managing to gasp out, “Love you, baby.”

It catches them both by surprise when he erupts over Cas’ hand, thick streams spurting between them as his fiancé continues his assault on both Dean’s mouth and prostate. Dean shuts his eyes, sailing away on oceans of vibrant colors, body tensing as Cas works him through it. 

“Dean,” Cas whines into his neck, following him over the edge moments later.

Dean groans, only allowing his fiancé to roll off of him so far as he pulls him into his side for a post sex snuggle. Running a hand through Cas’ sweaty hair, they come down as Dean begins to wonder if they have enough time for a round two.

“Wish everyday was my birthday if that’s the wake up call I get,” Dean murmurs through a chuckle, planting a kiss on Cas’ slightly damp temple. 

Sweaty bodies be damned, he wants to cuddle with his angel in the afterglow. Falling into a comfortable silence soon turns to sinking back into a peaceful sleep still holding tightly to one another even in dreams. 

*****

Hours later, after Dean’s wish of a round two is properly fulfilled, he’s ambushed. 

A chorus of “Surprise!” reverberates through the air from each of their friends and the crew as Cas pushes him through the door leading to the patio by the pool.

Turning to see his fiancé’s amused grin he shakes his head, “A surprise party, really Cas?”

Cas holds his hands up in defense, answering, “It wasn’t exactly my idea…”

Sure enough as he turns he spots Bal and Sam smirking as they look his way. Eventually Sam fesses up, “It’s your birthday, Dean. We’re going to properly celebrate it like it should be, so get over it.”

“Bitch,” Dean mutters, pulling his overgrown brother into a strong hug as Sammy responds, “Jerk.”

Dean won’t admit it but he appreciates the gesture. 

Up until he remembers everyone’s in attendance, including Lisa and Benny who appear to already be arguing in the corner. 

But, Dean refuses to let them ruin his day, proceeding to enjoy all the pie and beer he can get his hands on. Which happens to be a lot since Sammy and Cas made sure to let production know exactly what he likes. They’ve got at least five different flavors of pie out on a long table near the grill where Gabe’s cooking up the best burgers he’s tasted, outside of his own. 

“I won the brother in law lottery,” Dean mumbles between bites. “So good…”

“Don’t talk with your mouth full,” Cas jokingly corrects, gummy smile on full display. “He made the pies too…”

Dean doesn’t get to react to that heavenly piece of news. Unfortunately some people in their group don’t seem to be enjoying the party as much as the guest of honor. 

“For the millionth goddamn time, I don’t care,” Benny whisper shouts, glaring at Lisa. “If I did, we wouldn’t be together.”

“But, what if we have a kid and their friends tease them for having an old mom? Or everyone thinks I like robbed the cradle or something because of our age gap?” Lisa whines, unsteady on her feet as she takes a long swig of beer.

Dean glances over to Bal wondering if anyone’s gonna intervene, he’d rather not have this shit going on in the background on his birthday. But of course, they’re standing back filming every bit of the drama, this is reality tv after all. 

Sighing, he tries to tune them both out as he moans after each bite. Cas’ baby blues darken with interest but that will have to wait until later. 

“I don’t care! You seem to be the only one who does and if it’s that big a fuckin’ deal, what are we even doin’?!” Benny finally loses it, shouting as he storms off inside leaving a sobbing drunken mess of a fiancé behind.

Meanwhile, on the other side by the pool there seems to be trouble brewing between Claire and Kaia but thankfully they keep the conversation private. He does wonder what’s up, having gotten close to both of them, but Kaia storms off before he can ask. Dean will just have to check in with them later.

Apparently, Cas has other plans, standing as he mutters, “I’m going to check on Claire be right back.”

Figures.

Dean’s burger gets his full focus as he waits for his fiancés return. He’s thinking about getting a fourth when the last person he wants to speak with shows up to fill Cas’ empty seat. 

Fuck.

“Hey, Dean. Happy Birthday!” Lisa stage whispers as she plops down. “Where’s Castiel?”

Dean rolls his eyes, well aware she doesn’t care. Briefly, he thinks about ignoring her but decides to play nice, for now.

“Checking on Claire, they seem to be fighting with Kaia,” he explains, keeping his eyes on his plate praying she’ll leave.

No such luck.

“I saw, Benny’s being a bitch too,” she mutters, mostly to herself so he doesn’t think he was meant to hear but that’s his friend and he refuses to let her comment slide.

Dean half growls, “Benny’s just trying to get to know you, see if you work as a couple. Something you should appreciate…”

He leaves the words ‘since anyone else would have left you by now.’ unspoken. Lisa doesn’t have the right to shit talk Benny when she’s barely trying. 

Lisa smiles creepily, eyes running up and down his form as the bad kind of shiver runs through him. 

Fixated on him, she responds, “That honesty, it’s what drew me to you in the first place you know. I’ve always loved a man who can tell the truth without making me search for the answers myself. I hope that’s something Castiel appreciates…”

“I do,” Cas pipes up from behind him, placing a comforting hand on his shoulder. “You’re in my seat, Lisa.”

The woman’s face goes white as a sheet as she stumbles off, hopefully to find Benny and finally break things off. It’s the right thing to do. 

“It’s like watching a slow speed train wreck with those two,” Dean mumbles, returning the quick kiss Cas plants on his lips. 

“You got mustard on me,” his fiance’ gripes, sitting and grabbing a napkin to wipe away the evidence. 

“And you loved every second of it,” Dean points out, leaning in for another kiss as Cas leans away. “Come on, it’s my birthday!”

“Yes and I recall giving you your present already this morning. I don’t remember signing up for condiment covered kisses, though,” he jokes, acquiescing to one more short press of lips. “Happy?”

Dean replies immediately, heart soaring with unrestrained joy, “Very.” His mood dips slightly as he adds, “Now if I could just get rid of my drunken shadow permanently…”

Cas rolls his eyes, “Lisa’s issues worsen when she drinks, we’ve all seen it. She’s not our problem though. I’ll keep shooing her away from you when the need arises until she gets the hint.”

Dean snorts, “She’s not a fly, babe.”

“Well, she annoys you like one,” he answers with a shrug.

Dean can’t deny it, agreeing with a nod as they both grab one last burger from Gabe, ignoring Lisa for the rest of the party. Today they celebrate Dean turning 33, tomorrow they fly to Kansas.

Time for Cas and Gabe to ‘meet the parents’.

Chapter Text

“You couldn’t pay me to get on one of those things again,” Dean voices his complaint, yet again. Promising for what feels like the thousandth time, “We’re driving back, one way or another.”

In his haste to leave, Dean misses the luggage cart standing right behind him, tripping and falling in a heap of very angry limbs. 

Gabe snorts hysterically, overtaken by a gut busting laugh at Dean’s expense. 

“It’s not funny Gabe, that was…unfortunate.” He’d never admit to the tiniest of snickers he’s fighting to hold back. Instead, Castiel pivots the conversation, “He has a legitimate fear of flying. It’s very common, you know,” Castiel lectures, pausing the show as he waits for his brother to stop being an asshole.

It might be awhile.

Eventually, maturity seems to win as he apologizes, “My bad, my bad. It’s just his face is so…” the older man stops his amused rambling when he catches sight of Castiel’s squinty glare. “Nope, no excuse. I’m done now, promise.”

Rolling his eyes and ignoring his brother’s, quite empty, declaration Castiel turns back to the television watching the familiar countdown banner pop up at the bottom of the screen. 

Fifteen days until the weddings…

“When shit started to get real…” Gabe mutters to himself, digging into the couch cushions for the bag of marshmallows he swiped from the kitchen. 

It seems the self proclaimed ‘King of Sugar Town’ is beginning to run low.

Thank the lord in heaven. 

“For some maybe…” Castiel partially agrees, watching the others on screen. 

Kaia turns to Claire, curly hair woven into a beautiful braid as they stand in her mothers backyard. She admits, tears in her eyes as the words tumble free, “I’ve lost that fluttering feeling Claire and I’m…I’m worried what that means for us. I…I’m not sure we’re really clicking, not like the others…”

Clenching tighter to Kaia’s hands, now grasped in their own, Claire shouts, “No!” overcome with emotion in the moment. Backing up slightly, Kaia’s hands fall to her sides, shocked from the outburst. 

Working to get back in control as tears threaten to fall, Claire pleads, “It’s only been a few weeks, Kaia. This is normal, promise. Just…don’t give up on me, okay?”

The pair ends up wrapped in each others arms, sobbing as Kaia nods, brokenly whispering, “Okay…” into Claire’s blonde waves. 

The scene swaps out for Michael having ‘the talk’ with Alfie’s older brother Lucifer.

“But seriously, who the fuck names their child Lucifer? I thought mom and dad were obsessed…” Gabe shakes his head, confused chuckle echoing in the room. 

Castiel can’t help but agree as he watches the drama unfold. 

“…it’s not something you go into lightly and I won’t watch you hurt him. He’s a gentle soul,” the man smiles slightly before pinning Michael with an icy cold stare. “You on the other hand seem more…like me, actually.” Lucifer chuckles darkly as he comes to the realization, revealing, “…And not in a good way…” The older man’s eyes go dark at the admission while Michael’s widen impossibly. 

Is that a hint of fear?

“What are you hiding?” Lucifer mutters lowly, leaning forward on the sofa menacingly.

Unfortunately, the question goes unanswered to Michael’s visible relief with the return of Alfie and his parents with refreshments for the group.

Castiel’s hackles raise, old concern for his friend rising by the second. 

“So I’m assuming this is new information for you, too…” Gabe asks the rhetorical question, almost matching his own confused head tilt. 

“Of course, it’s not as though Michael would have come rushing back to tell us Alfie’s brother had ‘suspicions’ about his intentions from the beginning…” he shares, frustration boiling up inside him. 

It may be old news now, but Alfie’s a friend much like the burly man who’s taking up most of the screen at the moment.

Add this to the growing list of questions Castiel’s been compiling since watching episode one. For now his attention’s dragged back to what’s happening on the television. 

Lisa sighs, burying her face in her hands. Eventually the brunette peers up into Benny’s stern gaze, mumbling, “‘M sorry. I shouldn’t have embarrassed you like that, drinking the way I did. The way I’ve been since we left the pods. I…I know my behavior is making things so much harder for you and all I can say is I’m sorry.”

“No, you can do more than that, Lisa,” Benny grunts, frigid eyes glued to the floor between his boots. “Change…or you’ll be watching my back walk away…”

Before Lisa can respond, Benny’s mother comes breezing into the kitchen to check on dinner. Reading the tension in the room entirely wrong as she promises, “This old lady won’t be in the way much longer, just checkin’ on my gumbo. I know in the beginnin’ you can barely keep your hands to yourself, right? My Benny’s just so handsome…”

“Ma!” Benny shouts embarrassedly, face going tomato red as his eyes roll to the ceiling. 

Mrs. Lafitte swats him playfully with a dish cloth, “Don’t you ‘Ma’ me, it’s true. Me and your Pa don’t make ugly babies…”

“Doesn’t really count if we got the same face, Ma,” Benny’s twin brother Eli cuts in, chuckling as he wanders into the room. 

Lisa perks up, eyes roving over both mens bodies giving her non verbal vote of agreement on the matter. 

Everyone else in the room seems oblivious but of course the camera caught every second, holding on her face just long enough to clue in the audience before shifting scenes once again. 

“Here we are, home sweet home,” Dean whispers in a sleepy version of Castiel’s ear. 

He remembers drifting off on the way to Dean’s house, being awakened only to find himself in a state of shock from the sight in front of him. 

Castiel shakes himself free of the sands of sleep, letting the last bits of fatigue fall away to be dealt with later. At this very moment he’s missing his first glimpse of Dean’s home, hopefully their home in fifteen days, if all continues to go well. 

“You two go ahead, I’ll get your bags,” The driver promises from the front as Dean waits for him to exit the car. 

The sight in front of Castiel causes an abrupt halt to his steps requiring Dean to stumble to a stop as well. 

“Wow,” he breathes out almost on a whisper, unable to put his shock and delight into a more intelligent sentence at the moment. 

“I take it you like it so far?” Dean asks excitedly, smile widening as he coaxes Castiel to take a few steps towards the house. 

It definitely beats he and Gabe’s boring apartment back home. Honestly, “It’s like someone took every component I’ve ever wished for in a home and made them a reality. It’s perfect, I love it…” he gushes, eyes skipping over every detail at rapid speed. 

The inviting wraparound porch painted in white, complete with comfy chairs and a table. Castiel can already envision drinking coffee out here with Dean in the warmer months. Large windows seem prevalent in almost every room he can see on the first floor. And, in what must be fates hand in all this, the home is painted in a blue not far off from Castiel’s own eyes. Dean sneaks a glance or two his way coming to the same conclusion, bottle greens slipping down as if magnetized by the sight of Castiel’s mouth. It’s not a surprise when Dean halts his steps again, this time to steal a kiss right under the prominently displayed pride flag flapping over the steps of the porch. 

Lips meet as tongues taste and Castiel drowns in Dean’s love, reluctant to surface ever again. Eventually he’s released, much warmer than when they first approached in the lingering chill of winter. 

His fiancé bumps their frigid noses together, the sweet move causing a flush to spread across Castiel’s cheeks. Looking on at his handiwork, Dean murmurs, “Adorable…” into the space between them. 

“What was that for?” he asks dazedly, breathless under his focused emerald gaze. Castiel puts himself back to rights realizing Dean’s wandering hands somehow made their way under his button up, in public view of the entire street.

Well, that’s one way to get to know his new neighbors. 

Dean doesn’t respond, smilingly silently instead, keeping Castiel close with an arm around his waist. As he unlocks the front door, he gets a glimpse inside for the first time. Dean begins to give a full run down for the cameras benefit, smile wide and eyes sparkling brightly as he narrates, “Right through here’s my favorite place in the house, the living room. Huge windows, vaulted ceilings…”

Castiel listens, though he’s more focused on taking in every single detail on his own. From the couch big enough to fit them both quite comfortably to the kitchen he can already see them cooking in together. The house may have five bedrooms and three full bathrooms but Castiel only cares about their room. Thankfully, equipped with a king sized bed large enough for lazy mornings sleeping in tangled together or getting a little more intimate when the mood hits them. 

Castiel can’t deny a hint of that mood when the thought arises but, the reminder they aren’t alone as one of the cameramen sneezes is enough to dampen it quickly. When he turns, Dean’s darkened evergreens pinning him to the spot almost send him right back. Instead, he makes the mature decision to ignore that heated gaze for now in favor of cashing in on the unspoken promise once the crew has gone for the night. 

Sure, they’ll leave cameras behind, but not in the bedroom.

With a whispered later, the man follows behind his fiancé as Dean finishes the tour of the home, making sure to point out every update he had a hand in himself along the way. By the end, Dean’s shining with pride, silently pleading for Castiel’s approval. 

It’s not necessary, “The place is truly wonderful, Dean. I…I already feel like I'm home…”

The admission feels right, though it’s another oddity in this relationship. Castiel’s used to his routine, being in ‘someone else’s’ home with the intention to stay should be throwing him into a low grade panic attack. But, he’s not sure if its Dean being present or the intensity of their relationship, either way there’s not a hint of panic in his body. Castiel loves this place, loves Dean. Apparently enough to feel at home and peaceful without going through the usual phase of discomfort being away from what he knows can bring on. Castiel’s not sure what that means but he’s loathe to complain.

Dean’s glass greens go impossibly soft as he murmurs, “‘M glad. This is your home…if that’s still what you want.”

Castiel hears the slight waver of doubt in Dean’s voice and it tears into his heart. The proof those uncertainties still linger even now stings immeasurably. 

“Of course that’s what I want. I’m not going anywhere, not unless you ask me to,” he swears, pulling his fiancé into a bone crushing embrace he hopes erases that last bit of doubt from his mind. Castiel declares, once again, without hesitation, “I love you, Dean Winchester.”

Dean shakes his head rapidly, face slightly smooshed in the crook of Castiel’s neck as he breathes out, “‘M not asking you to go anywhere, ever. Love you too much to lose you, angel.”

A comfortable silence lengthens as they sink into the truth of that statement, and in such a short time. But he believes it because the same sentiment courses through every inch of his being. Castiel needs Dean about as much as he requires oxygen to breathe, food to sustain his vessel. He can’t help himself, getting lost in their breaths slowing as they sync, hearts beating near in rhythm with one another, the illusion of becoming one. 

Sweet bliss.

Only broken as Castiel innocently asks a few of the questions swirling in his mind. “Is the backyard big enough to keep bees? We never could living in an apartment…and what about a cat? Gabe always claims he’s allergic but…” He’s on a roll, forcing a bark of a laugh out of his fiancé that reverberates through his body, lighting Castiel up from the inside. 

To be here, with this man, for the rest of their days would make him happier than Castiel could ever dream to put into words. Still he can’t help but try to convey this brand new feeling of belonging, in his own way, as he rambles on in excitement.

Castiel’s list of ‘additions’ grows longer as Dean’s belly laughs deepen. The spirited discussion leads the couple back downstairs and into the kitchen to prepare their first meal, in their house, together. 

*****

Production pulls in slowly in front of the car ferrying he and Dean to Winchester Restorations for the day. Castiel’s barely had the chance to climb out of the car as he takes in the huge sign out front when he’s accosted by a gangly stranger enthusiastically hugging him.

Castiel endures it, assuming this must be one of Dean’s friends or employees, though every inch of his body is screaming at him to put some distance between them right away. 

Boundaries are important. 

Dean takes care of it for Castiel, moving in quickly but politely as he pulls him back, giving what sounds like an oft repeated reminder, “We’ve talked about this, man. Ask first, hug second.”

Looking down at his feet, the man mumbles a quick apology, “Sorry boss.”

Dean pats him on the back, reassuring his friend, “We all know you’re a hugger, Garth. Don’t feel bad, just don’t scare Cas away before we even make it inside.”

The joke does its job loosening everyone back up so he can introduce himself properly amidst their shared chuckles. “I’m Garth,” the man offers, this time sticking out a hand to shake. Much more reasonable. Castiel takes it without hesitation, shaking in greeting as Garth continues speaking, “Been friends with Dean for most of my life, he’s a good guy.”

“Now who’s blushing?” Castiel teases, amused to see the flush of red spread as it highlights his fiancé’s scattered freckles dancing along his cheekbones. 

Gorgeous.  

“Shaddup,” Dean mutters through a grin he’s failing at hiding. The man walks off towards the doors of his business without another word only turning to motion for them to follow him inside. 

Garth takes their brief time alone to add an addendum to his prior statement, whispering, “Dean’s damn near my only friend, my best friend. Has been since he took on a few bullies for me back in elementary school.” He hesitates before steam rolling on as they march slowly to the doors. Garth sighs heavily, eyes trained on Dean waiting in front of them as he makes a simple request, “Look, you seem alright but I don’t really know you. Honestly, neither does Dean so…just don’t hurt him like the others and we’re good, okay?”

Castiel’s answer flows free before he has to give it a second thought, “I could never hurt Dean. I love him, I will always love him. If he told me to leave tomorrow it would break me, but I’d still love him enough not to hurt him as I go. You don’t have to worry, Garth.” 

The man’s mouth drops open in clear shock, stumbling in his steps as he does before pulling it together enough to make the last few feet to Dean without arousing his suspicions. Castiel has learned enough about his fiancé at this point to understand he would hate being the topic of their conversation, but Garth’s just being a decent friend. 

Garth finally formulates a response, smiling brightly as he turns to Castiel, simply answering, “Good…”

Castiel feels like he passed some unspoken test but he doesn’t get much time to celebrate as the doors to the business bust wide open, revealing a scruffy older man in a ratty truckers cap. 

“What're ya idjits doin’ standin’ out here in the cold?” He demands, gesturing for everyone including Dean to come in. 

Dean rolls his eyes, pointing to the older man as they walk past, “This eloquent gentleman is my Uncle Bobby, Uncle Bobby this is my fiancé Castiel Novak.”

‘Uncle Bobby’ pins Castiel with a hardened glare, much less friendly than Garth but there’s a spark behind his eyes that gives him hope.

This time, the onus falls on Castiel to stick out his own hand in greeting, “Nice to meet you, sir.”

“No sir, just Bobby,” he grunts, accepting the hand only to pull him in close as he hands out the usual threat a loved one gives in these situations, “Hurt him and I hurt you, get me?”

“Completely, Si-Bobby,” Castiel nods rapidly, comforted by the warm chuckle growing behind him as Dean’s hand lands in the middle of his back. 

“Will the two of you cool it? He’s gonna run off screaming in the opposite direction if you keep it up and I’d like to have a husband at the end of all this…” Dean chuckles, words trailing off as everyone in the room processes what was just said. 

Bobby breaks his silence first, cautioning, “It’s been seventeen days, boys,” turning to Castiel Bobby insists, “it’s no offense to you, son. You seem nice enough I guess but you have to admit this is strange. ‘Love’ and legal marriage in less than a month? Hell it took me and Karen a year of engagement after years of dating just to be sure…”

Castiel understands, technically meeting Bobby is about the same as meeting Mary Winchester, so he expected this question to come up fairly quickly. Although, in his imaginings it wasn’t on the heels of Dean insisting he plans to come out of this experiment with Castiel as his husband. Castiel’s grateful, his fiancés firm reassurance can bolster his strength through the many interrogations he’s bound to have in the next 48 hours from Dean’s friends and family. 

Castiel would say Gabriel has it easier but at least Dean doesn’t work with any of his exes. Shuddering at the thought he tunes back in to hear the end of Dean’s speech.

“…know it makes absolutely no sense but…we fell in love in those pods. Real love not some lifetime movie romance novel bullshit, and we’re not asking for anyone’s permission. But, your blessing would be nice…” Dean says, securing Castiel’s clammy hand in his own as they wait out Bobby’s long silence. 

Finally, “‘Course, ya idjit. Just don’t want you makin’ any mistakes you have to go to court to fix.”

Dean snorts a laugh, “Don’t think either of us will be doing that.”

Castiel shakes his head no in agreement, “I have no plans on divorcing Dean at this time, or ever.”

Bobby nods, skepticism still lurking behind his gaze though it has warmed considerably. Honestly, Castiel would rather a little friendly concern than outright dislike or rejection, it’s to be expected with someone as loved as Dean. So far, ‘meeting the parents’ has been a breeze but he’d rather not jinx himself since he has yet to meet the matriarch of the family. Castiel crosses his fingers as Dean begins his tour of the business praying that Mary will be as accepting tomorrow at Dean’s second 33rd birthday party as Bobby and Garth have been here today.

Here’s hoping.

As he listens to his fiancé describe what they do in this building on a daily basis, his responsibilities as the owner as well as the restoration work he takes on on his own has him in awe of the man. Castiel could never imagine managing his own business. For one, he wouldn’t be able to contend with the customer facing side of it all. Avoiding people is what he does best after all, it’s the main reason he closes himself up in his office all day with very little contact from his coworkers. To add, Castiel doesn’t have the first clue of how to fix a car let alone restoring something rusted and old back to its former glory.

After today, Castiel’s belief solidifies. His fiancé is “…amazing! What you do here…” he pauses, words coming out in a breathy whisper, “…it’s almost like magic.”

Bobby and Garth disappeared about twenty minutes into the walkthrough having actual cars to fix since their boss is only back to film, not to work. The tour ended in his office, Dean standing behind his desk as Castiel walks around poking at one personal item to the next trying to learn as much as he can about the man in front of him.

He pauses at a photo of a beautiful blond woman bearing a striking resemblance to his fiancé, or rather Dean bears a striking resemblance to his mother if Mary is the woman in the photo. Next to that photo, a dark haired man has an arm wrapped protectively around a smaller freckle faced boy while holding an infant he suspects is Sam. The family looks happy, nowhere near the tumult Dean’s shared occurred with the death of his father. His pondering is interrupted by Dean’s delayed response to Castiel’s compliment. 

“’S not magic, Cas. Not that big a deal either,” he insists, peridot eyes ducking down to the floor as a new shy version of Dean emerges. 

“You restored your own car after it was destroyed, Dean. Bobby showed me the photos,” Castiel reveals, insisting instead on Dean’s greatness, even if he can’t admit it himself. 

Dean shrugs, still unwilling to agree but eventually acquiescing as he plops into his office chair. 

Castiel takes it as a win taking his own seat on the other side of the desk. 

“So, what do you wanna do for the rest of the day?” Dean asks, fiddling with paperwork on his desk to occupy his hands as the subject shifts.

Castiel could think of other ways to occupy those hands, almost on cue Dean’s moss green eyes slowly pan up catching onto his intentions fairly quickly.

The unspoken answer, ‘You’, lingers in the space between them electrifying the energy in the room. 

Dean’s eyes skip over the silent crew crammed into the small space around them, pointing out the obvious with an amused chuckle, “Not exactly alone, babe. In this room or out there…”

Castiel groans, completely willing to take what he can get if they can find a quiet corner to do so in but logic wins instead suggesting, "You said you have a few cars to finish up? That the owners only wanted you working on? Show me what you do…I would like to see for myself.”

With Dean’s easy agreement and a kiss or two as the crew resets in the garage, they spend the rest of the day with Dean getting increasingly dirty as Castiel tries not to get too visibly turned on. 

‘Tries’ being the operative word in this scenario.

“Should create a ‘bring your fiancé to work day’ just for this,” Dean moans, trying to keep it down in the supply closet they managed to duck into after ditching the crew.

“Shhhh,” Castiel reminds him, he took off their mics but neither of them are sure whether that even matters. 

Dean decides to use his mouth in better ways, keeping them both quiet with a slow sweet kiss. The action causes Castiel to release a soft sigh, wrapping his arms around Dean’s waist and pulling him closer. With practiced ease his hands wander lower, brushing against his fiancés hardened length still trapped in his jeans. The contact causes him to moan out into their kiss as it grows frenzied. Dean’s hand joins in, pulling Castiel free from the prison of his jeans and boxers as he begins a slow stroke, matching the slide of his tongue deliciously. 

Exploring further, Castiel pulls Dean’s cock free to join his own, wrapping his hand around them both. The sensation is mind-blowing, throwing Castiel closer than he’d like to be but he needs and wants too much to stop. Slow soon becomes fast as they approach the edge together, always together. 

Castiel wants so desperately to whisper every dirty thought coming into his head in his fiancés ear just to see how he’ll react, but they truly aren’t alone. Something he’s reminded of as boots pound the linoleum floor outside the closet in search of the pair.

Castiel recognizes one of the tech guys voices, Randy, as he says, “No, not over here either. I’ll check out back. Bet you $10 they snuck off to fuck again…”

Dean snorts into the kiss, lips pulling back into his own space abruptly as they both break into silent giggles.

“Well, they got it half right,” Dean cracks up, trying not to get them found out as Castiel moves to cover his mouth with one hand. 

Childishly, his fiancé licks his hand so he’ll release him. 

“I’m blaming you if they find us like this,” he threatens, raising one eyebrow not expecting the move to illicit a deep moan from his soon to be husband. “You really like that, huh?”

Dean nods, lips brushing the returned hand as his muffled voice admits, “Hell yeah…”

Castiel can work with that, letting loose a part of himself he’s never had the time or space to play with. Never trusted anyone this much.

Voice deepening to a low growl, Castiel demands as he speeds up his strokes, squeezing at the tip to Dean’s apparent delight. “Gonna come for me, Dean?”

“Shit, Cas,” he moans filthily, knees almost giving out. Castiel saves him, backing him up firmly into the wall, releasing his mouth to take both his hands in a firm grip above his fiancé’s head. “Ya can’t just…”

The sentence is cut short as Dean’s release catches them both by surprise, “Ahhhh, I’m…”

As ropes of white shoot between them, his fiancé locks up in pure pleasure, working one hand free to grip the back of Castiel’s neck as he pulls him into an entirely indecent kiss. Nipping at his plush lips, Castiel pulls back as he continues working Dean through it. His spend easing the way as he swiftly follows behind, roughly grunting, “Dean…” 

Uncaring of the mess they made, Castiel slides back into his fiancés space demanding entry past his puckered pout, losing themselves for moments that could be hours. His hands run through Dean’s golden brown hair, pulling softly encouraging his delighted groans as they come down. Dean can’t seem to decide where he wants his own, settling for running them down Castiel’s back to squeeze his ass. 

The man isn't complaining one bit. 

“Found them!” A shout breaks them out of their reverie, ending the stolen moment as ‘tech guy’ knocks on the door. “If you’re naked in there…don’t be by the time I come back. Thanks!”

With that, the sound of his boots recedes with an amused shout of, “Ya’ll owe me $10!”

Dean calls back playfully, “No they don’t, we weren’t fuckin’!”

“You were doing something in there,” an unrecognizable voice chimes in.

“Rhonda? What’re you doing here?” Dean cracks up laughing, cleaning himself up faster.

Castiel shifts nervously, recognizing Dean’s other best friends name as they try to get themselves presentable enough to face the peanut gallery that seems to have gathered in the hall.

“Well, I came to see you but apparently you’re too busy gettin’ some in the closet. Guess I should come back later…” the woman suggests teasingly, boots seemingly fading into the distance as she walks off.

His fiancé throws the door open, luckily just in time for Castiel to finish his cleanup. A good thing since the hall is full of curious onlookers. Mostly crew but there’s a very pregnant brunette standing at the end of the hall, next to Bobby and Garth, smiling brightly in their direction.

Rhonda Hurley.

Equipped with the knowledge today is just the beginning of becoming part of Dean’s world, Castiel prepares himself to meet yet another stranger.

He can do this.

The mantra’s effect is starting to dull as his anxiety begins to bloom.

He can do this.

Maybe if he says it enough the impending panic attack will have the decency to fuck off.

Castiel’s social meter’s running low and tomorrow is an even longer day with a larger crowd.

He may be well and truly screwed.

Chapter Text

Dean barely takes a second to check himself for ‘mysterious stains’ before bounding through the abruptly opened supply room door to see his best friend.

He’s about halfway down the hall, arms outstretched for a hug, when Rho’s eyes go fearfully wide, mouth dropping in shock at whatever’s caught her eye behind him. Dean turns just in time to see Cas go white as fresh snow before his knees buckle sending him to the floor.

Shitshitshitshitshit

Dean rushes over with Rhonda following behind, face twisted in concern even though she has yet to properly meet his fiancé. 

“Cas, baby,” Dean murmurs once he’s close enough to drop down next to the man. “’S okay, I’m here.”

Dean tries to soothe him but the rapid breathing isn’t getting any better so he attempts what worked for the both of them in Hawaii. 

Taking hold of his fiancés now sweaty hands, Dean stares into Cas’ wild cobalt eyes as he begins in a softened tone, “Focus on me, love. Name three things you see around us, okay?”

Cas nods as rapidly as his unsteady breathing, eyes bouncing around the room, replying, “Dirty mop bucket behind you,” he says pointing shakily. “G-garth’s strange sock puppet,” Dean turns to find the man wiggling the ever present puppet at the end of the hall. He stifles a snort knowing Garth’s just trying to help but the sight’s still hilarious. Half the crew’s just staring unsure what to do other than to continue filming. Cas goes on, sounding slightly calmer, “…a-and the safety poster behind Rhonda’s head on the wall.”

Dean smiles, glad to see Cas begin to settle as he moves to the next part of the exercise, “Good, that’s good.” Planting a quick kiss on his forehead, he asks, “Now, three things you can hear?”

Running his hand soothingly up and down Cas’ arm, Dean listens as he goes down a list including Bobby yelling ‘idjit’ rather loudly at one of the crew members, Garth clearing his throat down the hall as he waits to make sure Cas is okay, and the radio they left on in Dean’s office. 

“Awesome, babe. Last one, move three parts of your body,” he requests, chuckling as Cas’ eyes zero in on his lips. It kills him to do it, turning down the silent offer, suggesting, “Extra points for originality…”

Cas blushes beautifully when he’s caught out, instead wiggling his fingers in Dean’s grip until he unwillingly lets go, rolling his ocean eyes, and poking him in the ribs. The action makes Dean gasp out playfully in shock before they both dissolve into giggles. In hindsight, maybe he should’ve just let Cas kiss him. To make up for it Dean claims his warm lips in between their continued amusement.

Rhonda eventually cuts in, clearing her throat announcing through her own laughter, “Sam was right.”

Dean turns, brow furrowed in confusion as he asks, “Right? About what exactly?”

He helps Cas back to his feet, brushing off his pants as they wait for an answer.

“Oh nothing, just that you’re completely gone over this guy like you didn’t just meet. Don’t worry, I think it’s sweet,” She reveals, smile widening as she watches their reactions.

Dean splutters, first instinct to deny every word she’s said. But, peering over at Cas, he can’t do it. Sammy is right, he feels it in his bones, genuine response tumbling out of him as he admits to one of his oldest friends, someone who knows when he’s bullshitting and when he isn’t. “I am…” he pauses, old fears creeping in with his addendum, directed at Cas, “…we are, I think?”

Cas agrees without hesitation, taking his hand once again before declaring, “Yes, we are. Completely and irrevocably in love. And Sam has no room to talk, in my opinion. It’s nice to meet you by the way…sorry about…”

Rho cuts him off, immediately soothing his concerns, “Don’t worry about it, seriously. I’d hug you but…” she points to her much larger belly than when Dean last saw her, where his first niece currently resides.

Cas’ lips quirk into a cautious smile, color slowly returning to his face though his answer comes back slightly stiff, “…a handshake is fine.”

It’s not like Cas’ gonna cry over not hugging someone. 

This time Dean keeps his chuckles internal, not wanting to reveal too much just as Cas is warming up to a new person. He’ll be around Rhonda enough for her to catch on anyway, for now he looks on proudly as Cas makes an effort to at least shake her hand and the discussion flows to other topics. Still, he can’t quite settle himself, wondering what will happen tomorrow. If meeting one new person threw Cas into a panic attack, meeting almost half of the Winchester’s could be bad. It seems having Gabe or himself around isn’t helping his fiancé as much as it was in Hawaii. 

______________________________

On the drive back home…

Castiel’s thoughts record scratch, still not used to calling Dean’s house home. But, it seems to be his new safe place, he calms further the closer they get to the address.

It’s something to get used to, much like meeting Dean’s family and close friends. There doesn’t seem to be a distinction between the two for his fiancé and the idea is honestly refreshing. Once he and Gabe were thrown out and disinherited by their parents, they were so focused on taking care of each other neither took the time to make long lasting friendships. Especially not ones they’d consider family. But, maybe this can be the beginning of something good in that regard, for the both of them. 

He’s mostly silent on the car ride, choosing instead to glue himself to Dean’s side the entire time with few words passing between them on the way. Castiel’s thankful to his fiancé for giving him space while recognizing he doesn’t want literal space in between them. 

Tomorrow’s a big day.

Mary Winchester couldn’t let Dean’s birthday pass without celebrating, an impulse he can understand. But, from his fiancé’s description, this party has morphed into a frankenparty including celebrating their engagement and the brothers brief return home. The end result being, most of Dean and Sam’s friends and family will be in attendance which means hours of Castiel having to be ‘on’ when he’d rather be alone with Dean. 

The very idea is what ultimately caused the panic attack, not Rhonda. Well, not completely. Castiel feels as though he could have pushed through the small blip of panic her unexpected arrival caused, her past teenage sexual hijinks with Dean notwithstanding. But, his brain pushed as usual when thoughts of the party began to inundate him. 

Now, he fears he may not be in attendance at an extremely important event both for Dean and their relationship. Once they’re safely inside, Castiel feels calmed enough to reveal this information to his fiancé, admitting, “I don’t want to let you down but…I panicked because of tomorrow, not just because of Rhonda.”

Dean turns briefly confused emerald eyes on him before a spark of understanding blooms within them. Leading Castiel into the living room where they settle on the couch, glass greens lock with sapphire blues as Dean tries his best to reassure him, “You won’t be letting me down if you can’t go, Cas. I’ll be fine. But, if you think you can try, you’ll have me there the whole time. Plus, Sammy and Gabe. You’ve already met Rhonda, Bobby, and Garth…”

Castiel can’t help but cut in, reminding him, “But not your mother…”

Dean returns the favor, “…who’s gonna love you, babe. She’s not the scary monster under the bed your brain’s making her out to be.”

He takes a few slow, deep breaths letting Dean’s words wash over him. 

It’s not working.

Castiel continues, building to an unstoppable roll as he spits out in a rush, “She has to be nice to you, you’re her child. I, on the other hand, could be a masked murderer trying to corrupt said child. She’s going to hate me then you’ll hate me and I’ll have to leave…”

Castiel’s tirade of panic is interrupted quite abruptly when Dean begins to clap loudly before semi shouting, “1-2-3, eyes on me!”

“Wha?” His confusion creates the perfect opening for his fiancé to get more than a word in.

“Sorry, used to be a camp counselor in high school. Guess that little gem is effective for more than just rowdy kids, huh,” he shakes his head in wonder before getting back on track as Castiel remains shocked into silence. “My mom’s gonna love you, because I love you.” Dean promises, peppering kisses across his hands and up his arms as he speaks. The action makes Castiel go practically boneless as he allows his fiancé’s words to penetrate, finally doing their job. “And if she doesn’t, I’ll still love you. Babe, she’s my mom but she doesn’t get to dictate who I marry…” his words trail off, but not the kisses. That path ends with a quick nip to the end of his nose as they both break out into the sweetest laughter. 

Once their impromptu giggles come to a natural end, Dean pins him with concerned evergreens, asking, “Better?”

Castiel nods, fingers dancing over the back of Dean’s hand to distract himself from the few lingering intrusive thoughts echoing in his mind, answering honestly, “Getting there.”

“Good, anything else I can do to help?” Dean asks, shifting Castiel closer into his arms. Almost immediately, thoughts of wanting to stay just like this forever drive away what’s left of the panic. 

The answer is simple, “This…just this.” Relaxing in his fiancés arms with a contented purr of a sigh, living up to his old nickname Catstiel, with no intention of moving for at least the next thirty minutes.

If Dean’s amenable, of course. 

_________________________________________

Twelve days until the weddings…

“Sammy and I…” Dean pauses, seemingly deep in thought. Gathering his words together, “We don’t bring just anyone home to meet our mom so this is a huge deal, for both of us.” Quick to defend even if the accusation hasn’t been made, he adds, “It’s not that she’s got some crazy expectations and standards or anything like that. I can only speak for myself, not Sammy, and I’m sure you’re gonna ask him the same question anyway. But,” he sighs heavily, leaning back in his seat, running a hand over the back of his neck before carding through his golden brown hair. 

Green eyes stare directly into the camera as he shares, “…I don’t have the best dating history but I’m also really close with my mom so, in the beginning, she’d end up meeting almost everyone I dated. Probably sooner than I should have allowed. After my most recent relationship ended the way it did, I decided you had to be pretty fuckin’ amazing to be allowed anywhere near my mom…” Dean trails off, lips pressed into a grim frown.

“And Castiel’s ‘fucking amazing’?” a disembodied producer’s voice asks from behind the camera.  

Dean’s entire countenance brightens, eyes glimmering golden green at just the mention of his fiancé. He answers without hesitation, “Cas is…everything and I’m sure mom’s gonna love him.”

“Sappppp,” Sammy mocks him jokingly, in truth he looks suspiciously teary around the eyes. 

“Really? Let’s rewind to your confessional about Gabe…” Dean teases, not at all surprised when his dork of a brother plays the show instead. 

The kid waxed poetic about how ‘genuinely caring’ Gabe is and how ‘deeply in sync’ their souls are for a good twenty minutes. If it were him, Dean wouldn’t want that replayed either. He’d rather get caught up in what’s playing out on the screen at the moment, the first time Castiel Novak met Mary Winchester in the flesh. 

“I can do this,” Cas mumbles the mantra as the car pulls over right in front of the brick two story he and Sammy grew up in.

Of course, Dean’s eyes immediately drift to Baby’s covered form in the driveway. Oh, how he’s missed her familiar lines and curves. Maybe they’ll have time to sneak away later for a drive. Maybe more, if he can convince the crew to stay behind. The idea’s enough to distract Dean until he notices an uptick in Cas’ unsteady breathing. The change transfers his focus back to his fiancé. Baby isn’t going anywhere.

Recognizing the beginnings of panic crawling across Cas’ face, Dean swoops in quickly smoothing his thumbs under his ocean blues, promising, “We can do this, Cas.”

“They’re your family and friends, of course you’re fine. I’m the one who’s the outsider,” Cas insists, aquamarines drifting to their clasped hands. 

Dean releases one hand from Cas’ hold, gripping his chin gently to regain his focus. “They’re our family and friends, Cas. Don’t let the anxiety convince you otherwise. You’ll see, promise.”

Cas doesn’t seem completely convinced so Dean thinks of an alternate plan, making a simple request. “Come meet my Baby.”

A small flicker of excitement grows in Cas’ baby blues, enough to encourage Dean further as he coaxes him from the car and up the driveway. He won’t keep him out long preferring the man toasty warm to ice cold. But this little interlude could help calm Cas the rest of the way if his fascination at the garage was anything to go by. 

Sure enough, after Dean whips the cover off the Impala the excitement spreads on his fiancé’s features. Taking that as a green light, Dean speeds ahead sharing all the little details he did in the pods in person as he shows Cas around his Baby. 

“…and right in here, you can still hear the rattle from some lego’s I stuffed in the vent. Dad was pissed,” Dean laughs lightly, ignoring the slight sting of the memory even after all this time. John Winchester was more than pissed that day, but that’s not a conversation to be had in front of cameras. His little detour seems to be working though as Cas takes in everything of importance that Dean has to share. “Sammy stuck an army man in the ashtray too, it’s still there…”

His words are interrupted abruptly by a melodic voice from behind, reminding, “Don’t forget the initials you boys carved in the rear window deck.”

Dean spins, beaming smile spreading wide as he spots his mom’s golden blonde hair glowing in the afternoon sun. Her green eyes catch on his for just a moment before drifting predictably to the ‘stranger’ next to him, hand still gripped tightly in his own. Cas squeezes slightly, just enough to telegraph his growing discomfort, something they’d like to avoid. 

In the hopes of just pulling the bandaid off and showing Cas there’s nothing to be worried about, Dean begins the introductions, “Mom, this is my fiancé Castiel Novak. Cas, this lovely lady is my mom, Mary Winchester.”

Unfortunately, his plan doesn’t seem to be working as Cas stiffens even further not moving an inch or making a sound, grip tightening almost painfully. 

Luckily, Mary’s just as good at picking up on nonverbal cues, making sure not to crowd them as she offers, “It’s nice to finally meet you, Cas. Gabe and Sam have told me a bit but, if it’s okay with you, can we sit here on the porch and talk?” The addendum to her statement has them both cracking up with laughter, “I’d love to get to know the man who’s apparently got my oldest ‘completely whipped’ as Sam put it."

The laughter does its job, chasing any impending panic away allowing Cas to loosen up enough to properly introduce himself, “It’s nice to meet you as well, Mrs. Winchester.”

His mom ignores the outstretched hand, opting for a hug as she corrects, “Please call me Mary.”

Dean hopes his mom doesn’t take it personally when Cas goes board stiff before returning the gesture. He wishes he’d thought to have production warn his family before their arrival about Cas’ specific boundaries, but his fiancé probably wouldn’t have liked that either. When Dean catches his ocean eyes and there’s not a hint of panic to be found it eases his worry. General discomfort is something they can work with and through. 

“Come, sit, tell me everything,” Mary jokes, taking a seat in her favorite rocking chair and leaving the porch swing for the couple. Dean plops down, easily accepting Cas’ arm around his shoulders, resting his hand on his love’s denim clad thigh. It’s almost routine for them by now but he watches his mom’s eyes go misty observing them together for the first time.

No, it’s more than that, she’s seeing the truth radiating from them. Everything he can feel and has shared with Cas but can’t always put into words for others to understand. Something she’s never witnessed reciprocated from his other partners as loudly as it is from Cas, without a single word. 

Love, genuine adoration and love.

If having this means he’s ‘whipped’ then so fucking be it. 

Mary huffs a sigh of wonder, green eyes bouncing between the two before she shares, “First Bobby told me and I must admit, I didn’t believe him. But, then I saw your brother and Gabe, now you…this is real. I just…wow. I’m happy for you both,” she breathes out in a hushed tone, eyes glistening with unshed tears of joy. 

“Thanks, Ma. It means a lot,” Dean says, fighting back his own flood of emotion. 

Cas echoes the sentiment, “Thank you, Mary.”

She wipes away one escaped tear, chuckling wetly as she asks, “So, do they have a senior edition of this thing? Lord knows I could use…”

“Ma! Can you not?” Dean whines, embarrassment showing on his tomato red face. 

His fiancé’s bark of a laugh vibrates through him where he’s pressed at his side. Normally, he’d take offense, being ganged up on isn’t how Dean envisioned the start of his second birthday party going. But, the happiness boiling over in Cas’ cobalt blues is catching and he can’t find it in himself to hold a grudge. Not when his loves fears have been successfully chased away with Mary’s easy acceptance. There’s a house full of people waiting for their official arrival, but right now, he could care less. Dean’s perfectly happy sharing this moment alone, watching two of his favorite people bond. 

That thought comes to a screeching halt when his mom reveals, “Now that Cas and I have properly met, I can tell you about the pie I baked you, Dean.”

“Pie?” He perks up, abandoning that idea in the face of the delicious offering.

“I’m beginning to realize I’ll be competing with pie and Baby for the rest of my life,” Cas deadpans, smirking as he stands to go inside.

Mary quickly takes custody of Cas’ other hand, effectively stealing Dean’s fiancé right out from under him and now they seem to be in cahoots.

“Don’t worry, there’s no way he loves Baby more than you,” she soothes. A twinkle overcomes her peridot eyes, adding teasingly, “Now, the pie I’m not so sure…”

“Hey!” Dean shouts indignantly, hiding a playful smirk. Advancing on his fiancé for a quick peck on the cheek, trying to keep things PG for his mom’s sake. Adding, sincerely, “Cas comes first, always.”

“See Ma, I told you,” Sam cuts in, shaking his moose sized head in the doorway. “Completely whipped.”

“Shut up, bitch,” Dean growls, pushing Sam lightly so he can get past gigantor to access the house.

“Make me, jerk,” Sam snipes back, nudging him in the ribs as he scoots past.

Mary cuts in, thrown back into mom mode as she orders, “Quit it you two!”

“Yes, ma’m,” echoes in unison from both men.

Gabe snorts, trailing behind them with Cas hiding his amused chuckles behind his hand.

“It’s like we got transported into a 90’s sitcom, Cassie. We’ve got a real family now,” Gabe jokes, not aware how close that simple statement hits to their conversation in the car.

Ocean meets rolling hills as Cas nods his head, agreeing, “Yes, we do.”

*****

The couple’s speaking with the general manager for one of the other Winchester Restoration locations when a familiar voice calls out across the room.

“Hey, you two miss me yet?”

They turn to find Jo standing next to an unfamiliar brunette walking towards them.

“Jo! How the hell…?” Dean begins to ask the obvious question before they fill in the blanks.

“Turns out your uncle used to date my mom back in the day,” she giggles almost uncontrollably as what must be her mom turns a shade of red he’s never seen. “When I went by on one of my days off I got to hear allll about it from your buddy Garth over there. Recognized my last name and put the puzzle together from there about Bobby’s ‘one that got away’.”

“Garth knows about this?” Dean shoots a glance over to Bobby who quickly turns away, making a beeline for the kitchen.

Ellen suspiciously excuses herself shortly after introductions are made.

“They’re not fooling anyone,” Jo cracks up laughing watching their mom attempt to sneak off. 

Cas makes a good point, head tilted adorably as he says, “You didn’t find love with Victor but the show brought your mom and Bobby back together.”

Jo smiles softly, “She does seem happier since they’ve been back in contact. It’s been nice seeing her smile for a change. As for me,” they shrug, nonchalantly. “I’ll find my person eventually.”

Silence falls over the group as the party goes on around them before Jo breaks it once again.

“Looked the shop up on Instagram before I went over,” they say, teasing smirk widening with every word. “You never told me how…”

“Really, Jo?” Dean whines, well aware he had to show Cas eventually just not banking on that day being today. “Could we not? It’s my birthday…”

“Technically, your birthday was several days ago. This party’s just meant to appease your mother’s sentimentality and your greed for pie,” Cas helpfully shares. 

“Not the time, babe,” Dean mutters, trying to head this off at the pass.

“He’s right, Dean,” Jo announces triumphantly, turning to Sam and Gabe to recruit them next. “Have you shown Gabe, Sam?”

Sammy betrays him so easily, Dean can’t help but utter, “Et tu, Brute?”

Gabe presses a hand to his heart dramatically, asking in a high pitched British lilt, “You’ve hidden something from me, my darling?”

Dean rolls his eyes heavenward praying for patience. “No one has to show anyone anything because there’s absolutely nothing to see, capiche?”

“No capiche, Dean. I’d like to see what Jo’s talking about,” Cas insists, eyes locked on the phone clutched in Jo’s hand. Production still has everyone else’s phones under lock and key. Clearly curiosity has sunken its claws into his fiancé. 

Sighing heavily in defeat Dean nods giving Jo the go ahead to quickly pull up the shops profile. They’ll only get away with it so long before the crew shuts them down anyway, hopefully sooner rather than later for his sake. 

Jo clicks through to their followers, pulling up the shop quickly. At first glance everything seems like what one would expect to find on an instagram for a mechanic or car restoration shop. Completed jobs or jobs in progress to showcase the type of work Dean’s become known for over the years. If he had his way, this would be the only content posted on the shops social media. But, his mom swears their follower count is in the tens of thousands because of the other content she posts. 

The first thirst trap Jo stops on is coincidentally the most liked on the shops profile this week. Gabe’s apple lollipop falls out of his mouth onto the floor, mouth fallen open in what he better pray is shock based off of Sammy’s reaction to the sustained eyeballing. 

Sam’s mouth twists into a tight frown, asking, “Gabe?” 

“…yeah? Oh! I was just….let’s go outside…” Gabe smartly suggests, dragging an unamused Sammy behind him. 

“I don’t blame him,” Jo admits, eyes roving unashamedly over Dean’s exposed muscled chest and biceps.

Mary creepily caught him in the middle of a repair. Sweaty, oil stained, and spread eagle for balance as he leaned under the hood. 

“This post has thousands of likes, Dean,” Cas murmurs, scrolling through more photos on Jo’s phone. He watches his fiancé’s eyes shift from shock to deep want, going from one post to the next. The only photographer is his mom so obviously nothing’s explicit, still it seems to be just enough to get Cas going. 

Mary hangs around the shop every once in awhile snapping what ‘the fans’ want to see. It’s annoying as hell, but it gives her something to do and they do end up with more business in the main shop after a new post goes up. 

Groupies

Mostly oil changes and wiper fluid refills that wouldn’t bring them into contact with Dean anyway, thank God.

Finally rescue comes in the form of Randy. 

“Hand Jo back the phone,” he orders before turning to Jo, “and keep your phone to yourself, thank you.”

Three pairs of eyes roll as the phone exchanges hands for the last time and Jo slides it back into their pocket.

“Logically, Mary’s idea makes sense. Sex sells and you’re a very sexual being, Dean. Even when you aren’t trying to be,” Cas says, leaning back in one of the chairs they found in an abandoned corner of the room. Dean’s doing his damndest to ignore the telling bulge in his fiancé’s jeans, listening to his words as he continues, “But, I don’t like the idea of thousands of people, like Lisa, seeing you this way either…”

Dean nods like a bobble head to Cas’ apparent amusement, “Believe me, I agree…”

Part of Dean is still stuck on the change in his love’s sapphire eyes, that untempered desire igniting his own urges. Even now, he’s battling against wanting to drag Cas up to his childhood bedroom, but not with his mom right downstairs. Instead, he stamps down the urge before it builds any further. He’ll have plenty of alone time with Cas later.

Now, it’s time for Dean to complete some business he hadn’t thought he’d be able to tend to for a few weeks. No time like the present.

Dean turns to Jo, pretending to sulk for a moment and pouting through a whine, “Troublemaker,” before changing the subject entirely to their confusion, asking, "What do you think about using your powers for good? Coming to work with me over at the shop? We haven’t had a decent welder since…”

Dean trails off, not needing to get into how his last welder was his last cheater of a boyfriend who fucked off to who knows where. 

Nope.

Jo’s eyes go dinner plate wide, stammering on automatic to decline the offer, “I could never accept, Dean. You’re damn close to going nationwide which means you need the best, that’s not me.”

Expecting the refusal, Dean doubles down hoping he can change Jo’s mind, “Look, someone took a chance on me once and you see where it’s gotten me. You’re right, we are close to taking the business nationwide. I do need the best and I think that’s you, Jo.”

It’s only now that Dean realizes how silent the room has gone. One quick glance around proves the entire party is listening in waiting for Jo’s decision. After a few beats of continued suspense, Jo puts him out of his misery with a tentative whisper, “Okay…”

Whoops and hollers of celebration go up around the room, clearly to the crews delight at having caught it all on camera. None of that matters to Dean as he accepts a crushing hug from Jo before they rush off to find Ellen and tell her the good news. 

Their stream of “Thankyouthankyouthankyou” fades off into the sounds of joy surrounding the couple. 

“You did a good thing,” Cas says, watching Jo’s departure with a soft smile affixed to his face. 

Dean wants to deny it, downplay the action as something anyone would do. But, he’s not dense, he knows not everyone looks out for the people around them the way he chooses to. Still, he can’t make himself say the words out loud, only nodding in thanks to his fiancé for the recognition. 

As the gathering continues, Cas loosens up and by the end Dean’s prediction has come true in the most beautiful of ways. 

“…and I look forward to learning more about bees once you both come home,” Mary insists, wrapping her arms around Cas as he embraces her tiny frame in return. 

No stiffness or hesitance in sight. 

Rhonda, Bobby, and Garth get the same treatment as well as several of Sam’s coworkers among others. 

The goodbyes are hard, but it’s just for now. In less than two weeks, he’ll see his mother again for their weddings. 

It’s so close, he should be losing his shit but a calm with an inkling of anticipation has come over him the closer it gets to the day. Dean’s ready, he just hopes nothing changes Cas’ mind before they make it to the altar. 

Fearful thoughts of abandonment by runaway fiancé get tossed away as soon as Cas returns, full of excitement of all the things he plans to do once they’re ‘back home’. 

“…and Bobby promised he won’t call me an ‘idjit’ if I have questions. Oh!” Cas looks around furtively, continuing in a stage whisper, “I wasn’t going to say anything until we left but I think I saw Bobby and Ellen kissi-“

Dean slaps a hand over his fiancé’s mouth, gently but firmly, “Nope, your first instinct was right,    babe. Tell me later…”

The request comes seconds before Bobby marches over for his own goodbyes, barely missing Cas’ gossip. Dean’s not sure he wants to hear about Bobby kissing anyone to be honest. Sure, when they were kids he saw Bobby kissing Aunt Karen all the time, but that was different. He shudders at the thought before his uncle reaches them, not wanting any of his internal monologue showing on his face. 

“Hey, Bobby. Cas was just telling me you’re gonna show him a few things around the shop when we get back,” Dean says, attempting to change the topic.

From the slight glare on Bobby’s face, he heard at least part of the prior discussion but he doesn’t say a word, only agreeing, “Yup, boy should know a thing or two just in case…"

“‘Preciate it,” Dean thanks his uncle, easily falling into the quick hug offered. “Next time you see me, I’ll be a married man.”

Bobby’s smile is genuine and warm when he releases Dean. “I can’t really speak for Mary but I’m sure she’s already told you boys. I’m real proud of you, Dean. You picked a good one, this time.”

Dean’s caught off guard, not being in the habit of having this type of ‘mushy’ conversation, with Bobby Singer of all people. Sure, his uncle always made sure he and Sammy knew they were loved and cared for over the years. But, he’s never been one for this level of sap, not outwardly at least. 

It leaves Dean feeling off balance, but in a good way, stammering, “Th-thanks, Bobby.”

Cas cuts in, misty eyed but beaming, “Thank you, Bobby.” Almost free and clear until he adds, “And I’m happy for you…”

Bobby’s eyes narrow dangerously. Before he can lay into Cas, Dean whisks him away out to the porch where Sammy and Gabe are waiting for them. 

Mary stands with them, bemoaning the brief separation from ‘her boys’, “I know I’ll see all four of you before you can blink, I just wish you didn’t have to go so soon.”

Before you can blink.

The words almost send him back into his childhood memories again, something they don’t have time for right now. 

‘I’ll be back before you can blink’

‘Dinner will be ready before you can blink’

‘Dean Eric Winchester get down here right now or you’ll be grounded before you can blink!’

“Love you, Ma,” Dean whispers into the tight embrace he wraps her in, this being their second farewell of the evening. 

“Love you too, honey,” she murmurs back, eventually releasing him to give the same treatment to Sammy, Cas, and Gabe.

‘See you laters’ having been passed around, Dean makes a declaration that’s probably going to piss off more than a few people, “I’m not flying. Cas and I are driving back, in Baby.”

Immediately, every member from the crew and production pipes up with a wave of disagreement. 

“You don’t even know where the apartments are,” Randy helpfully points out. 

“No, but you do,” Dean says, laying out the second half of his plan. “You don’t have to give me the address. One or two of you can come along and give us general directions,” He hesitates, damn near feeling physical pain, forcing himself to utter the next words. “I’d never usually do this but…when we get close enough one of you can drive Baby the rest of the way.”

Shocked gasps ring out in the air around him.

“That bad, honey?” Mary asks, soothing hand rubbing up and down his back. 

He’s not too ‘manly’ to admit it, “Worse, I’m never getting on a plane again so…I’m driving or I’m quitting the show…”

This time, Cas gasps behind him, he turns to clarify quickly, “Not you, Cas. The show, we’d just continue our relationship without all the cameras, baby.”

“Ohhh, okay. Don’t scare me like that, Dean,” Cas demands, rolling his ocean eyes in exasperation as he smacks Dean lightly on the chest. “I agree, then. Nothing’s worth that level of panic if we have a perfectly good alternative.”

Randy looks to one of the other crew members as they move into a huddle to discuss what to do. It wasn’t exactly Dean’s plan to give them such an extreme ultimatum, but when the man began to fight him on it that fear bubbled up inside him, he refuses to give in on this. Eventually, they return to the group with an answer.

“These two,” Randy points to a blonde woman and a bald man, neither of which he’s had the pleasure of speaking to directly. “…will be in charge of this little ‘road trip’. We’re not assholes, if you can’t fly we’ll accommodate that. Normally, this would be handled with a rental but you providing your own car actually saves us money. Do what you want, basically, just make sure you don’t take longer than two days to do it in.”

Two days.

“No problem,” Dean easily promises.

Gabe cuts in, hugging Cas and wailing, “I’m gonna miss you, Cassie!”

His fiancé gently pushes the miniature weirdo away, reminding him, “It’s only two days, Gabriel.”

The man punches him playfully in the shoulder, effectively ending the act, teasing, “Yeah, two days on the road with lover boy. Don’t scar your buddies over here too much.”

As though the past few days run through their minds on a gag reel of sorts, the two chosen crew members begin to back out.

The bald man concocts a lie, “Well, actually, I told Bal I’d help him with…” 

While the blonde insists, “…really, I swear I forgot. Meg asked me to set up…”

Randy stops them in their tracks immediately, “Look, I get it, these two are especially…hands on. But it’s our job people, suck it up!”

Turning on them, Randy adds warningly, “Keep your hands to yourself in the car, what you do at any stops along the way is your business.”

“What on earth have the two of you been up to?” Mary says, before realizing what she just asked of her oldest child. “You know, I don’t wanna know on second thought.”

Dean groans, “We’re not….” glancing at Mary before he murmurs lowly, “sex addicts…”

“Definitely not,” Cas agrees, practically scandalized at all this attention being placed on their sex lives. “More importantly, Sam and Gabe will be late if this conversation continues.”

Dean mouths a quick ‘thanks, babe’ before seeing his brother and soon to be brother in law off to the airport. One more sleep at home then its back to…wherever the show is filmed for the conclusion of this crazy experiment. 

_________________________________________

Eleven days until the weddings…

“Are you excited to see Dean in his tux on the big day?” The producer asks drily from behind the camera. 

Castiel’s ocean eyes and unruly dark hair look back at him from the television screen. Sometimes, he can see a glimmer of what others do when they stare at him, practically in awe. Other times, he wonders what all the ‘hoopla’ is about as he does his best confused owl impression onscreen. 

“Having seen Dean with and without clothes I’m sure he’ll look gorgeous in whatever he chooses to wear,” Castiel answers with a shrug, nonchalance on the topic frustrating his audience if the beleaguered sigh from the producer can be trusted.

Gabriel pauses, beginning to speak, “You know…” before his words trail off in a bark of a laugh. The freeze frame on screen caught him at an inopportune time with Castiel’s mouth wide open to answer and one eye squinted in a strange way. The expression throws his older brother into hysterical laughter at Castiel’s expense before he can finish his sentence.

“Really, Gabe?” He deadpans, getting ready to snatch the remote back.

Gabriel dodges to the left, just avoiding Castiel’s grasp, explaining, “I was just going to say watching them try to squeeze the answers they wanted out of you was fucking hilarious.”

Momentarily pausing his mission to retrieve the remote, Castiel agrees, “Their attempts were fairly obvious…”

“That one producer looked ready to quit this time around, I remember his face…” Gabriel snorts a laugh, almost choking on the piece of chocolate cake he’s been attacking Bogtrotter style. 

Dean would be proud of that reference.

“He was pushing me to make an uncouth comment regarding wishing to fornicate with my fiancé based off of his attire,” Castiel explains, rolling his eyes with a huff at the memory. “I refused. We all know Dean’s attractive but that’s not why I love him. They should have been ecstatic, that’s the entire point of the ‘experiment’ but instead, they tried to cheapen our success in these ridiculous confessionals.”

“Maybe they just weren’t asking the right questions,” Gabriel responds, knowing twinkle in his golden eyes.

Castiel frowns, once again confused by his older brother but not willing to dig at the moment. Instead he manages to get the upper hand, regaining custody of the now chocolatey remote, and pressing play. 

Onscreen, Castiel points his eyes skyward exasperatedly as the scene transitions to a room filled with his friends in fancy gowns and stylish tuxedos. 

“He’s gonna lose his shit,” Gabriel chuckles, adjusting his white and black tuxedo jacket. 

According to Gabriel, he and Sam have a general idea of how they’d like to look in a few days, much like he and Dean. The jacket is white with wide black trim down the front paired with a white button up with black buttons. A black bowtie finishes it off with his black trousers. He’d be loathe to admit it out loud, but Gabriel looks very handsome and he’s sure Sam will agree. Hopefully the two will be able to pull off the match, he’s slightly concerned about he and Dean being able to do the same. 

In his mind Castiel can see their vision clearly. Standing in the mirror, what he sees in the physical realm matches that vision, at least in his and Gabriel’s opinion. His brother may be getting away from himself regarding Dean’s predicted reaction, however. Castiel adjusts his floral bowtie, wiggling the matching pocket square into perfect position. He smoothes his hands down the front of the emerald green tuxedo jacket, matching wonderfully with the paired fitted pants. Castiel finds himself wondering if Dean’s had the same luck in locating what they discussed among the racks production brought in. 

It’s just as likely, considering that conversation was filmed, that this so called ‘luck’ is due to them and not pure coincidence. It would make sense, he’s sure floral patterned pocket squares aren’t exactly standard in wedding wear. 

Castiel’s pondering is interrupted by Alfie sneaking up behind him, “Gabe’s absolutely right, Cas. You look drool worthy.”

Getting a good look at the other man, his friend actually does look drool worthy. But, taking a quick peek at the price tag, he’s also gone over budget on his tuxedo. An almost impossible feat since production gave them significant wiggle room and only a few of the designer options went above that amount. Still, Castiel’s sure Michael will appreciate the outcome. 

Turning his focus back to the topic at hand, Castiel tries to make an important point, “That’s not the…”

Before he can get the words out, Stevie chimes in with her opinion, “Dean’s gonna spend half the time at the altar daydreaming about taking all this off of you, Cas.” She scans her eyes up and down his form teasingly with a smirk affixed to her face.

Castiel would compliment her on the gorgeous white lace dress she chose, but not while she’s siding with Gabriel to torment him. Jody, Dorothy, and Kaia turn beaming smiles his way from across the room, their apparent contribution in agreement to Stevie’s words. 

Finally, he’s able to get a word in, reminding the gossiping group, “That’s not the point of the experiment, we love each other despite how ‘attractive’ we are to the other….” 

Trailing off, Castiel takes notice of the predictable effect having all the attention firmly placed on him creates. Lisa’s sulking in the corner looking like someone who got dressed up only to get stood up. The woman really does look stunning in her wedding gown, white and fitted at the top and flowing out in waves towards her hips. If she wasn’t such a nuisance he’d tell her as much, but since Castiel doesn’t want any further attention and she clearly does, he decides to give her exactly that. 

Nudging his chin in her direction, he asks, “Lisa looks gorgeous, don’t you think?”

The plan seems to be falling flat, with the room going silent as no one dares to agree. Castiel gets it, the dislike is mutual for him as well, but he’d like to get this done and over with without becoming the main attraction. Thankfully, Lisa does the rest of the work for him.

“Do you think? Really? I feel like this part doesn’t look right on me,” She whines, pointing to a non existent spot of imperfection on the frankly beautiful designer gown. 

Production even brought in several tailors to complete alterations on the spot. The man working with Lisa gives her a dark glare as he finishes up with the hem of the dress. 

“She’s practically runway ready, what the hell is she talking about?” Dorothy whispers, her caped white jumpsuit giving Lisa a run for her money. 

Kaia giggles, trying not to move as she stands through her alterations, “You haven’t noticed ever since she and Benny ‘sort of’ worked things out everything else has become a problem? Just ignore her. You look amazing by the way, Dot.”

“Thanks, Kaia. So do you,” Dorothy easily returns the compliment, spinning as her cape flows behind her. 

Lisa drones on in the background to the only person close enough not to manage to escape, Jody. They nod along as though listening, smoothing their hands down the lace at the top of the white pants jumpsuit they fell in love with. 

Jody mouths ‘help me’ to the rest of the group but Lisa’s on a roll.

_________________________________________

“Quit it Dean,” Sam grumbles, checking to make sure he looks his absolute best while Dean does the same for his whining little brother. 

“Blame Charlie, she was humming it on the way over,” Dean explains, trying his best to stop humming Billy Idol under his breath. 

It doesn’t help that Sammy’s literally wearing white to his wedding. 

He can’t help but ask again, “You sure about this…whole thing?” Gesturing with his hand at his brothers get-up. 

Dean would never say Sammy’s ugly, outside of the usual brotherly banter, of course. Sam’s pulling it off somehow, but wearing literal white seems like a bit much. 

“We like it, Dean. So yeah, I’m sure. Are you sure about…all this?” He asks teasingly, gesturing to Dean’s floral tie and pocket square nestled snugly into the pocket of his ocean blue tuxedo jacket. 

“You just wish you looked good enough to pull it off,” Dean jokes, slapping Sam on the bicep as he moves to center himself in front of the mirror. 

It’s not his usual, but Dean’s sure he’d be hard pressed to find someone that doesn’t agree he looks damn good. He just hopes the one person he wants to impress agrees. 

“You’d think I’d be more excited for my own wedding, but I can’t wait to see McDreamy when he lays eyes on you, Dean,” Charlie murmurs excitedly, popping up at his side like a prairie dog. 

Dean jumps slightly from her sudden appearance, settling as his friend takes in the picture they make in the mirror. 

“Love it, Charles,” he says, looking his friend over in her fitted black tuxedo complete with bowtie. “Stevie’s one lucky lady.”

Charlie plants a wet smooch on his cheek, barely needing to go up on her tippy toes thanks to her heels. “Thanks, handmaiden.”

Dean barks a laugh, “I never agreed to that, Charles…”

“You will, everyone always does…” she cackles maniacally, turning her attention back to the mirror and ignoring his concerned pout. 

Claire pops in the mix, resting their head on his shoulder lightly, “Now you look like you have two angels on your shoulder,” Claire jokes, amusement twinkling in their wide blue eyes. 

Claire found a jumpsuit a lot like Charlie’s but chose a badass white studded leather jacket to finish off the look. It suits them perfectly.

“Devils more like,” Benny teases, coming up behind them in a simple black tux.

Soon Donna joins them in a timeless white gown, radiating excitement. Dean’s  sure Jody will cry once they see how beautiful she looks. Michael comes next, accidentally matching Benny in the same tux.

“It was bound to happen at least once,” Michael shrugs after getting a look at the other man. “At least we both look quite debonair.”

Sarah eventually joins them, sulking but for what reason Dean doesn’t know. She looks stunning in a classic wedding gown, but far from happy. He hasn’t heard of her and Dorothy having issues but she ain’t exactly screaming ‘excited to get married’ at the moment. 

To an outsider, they probably look like a confusing mash up of David’s Bridal catalogues. To Dean, he sees the people he’s come to know and love over the last three weeks, people he’s about to experience something most wouldn’t believe possible.

“It’s really happening, Sammy,” Dean whispers to his brother as they disperse to finish up with alterations. “You ready?”

Sammy doesn’t answer with words, but Dean knows. 

Chapter Text

Seven days until the weddings…

Dean pulls on his shoes before walking out to the living room where Cas anxiously awaits him. 

“Are you sure this is required?” His gorgeous fiancé whines for about the fifth time within the last hour. “I don’t need a ‘last hurrah’, I’d rather spend tonight here with you…”

Dean gets it, he hates this whole thing too so he says as much, plopping down next to Cas on the uncomfortable brown couch production chose for each apartment. Wiggling a bit, he finally gives up on getting any measure of comfort from his chosen seat, explaining to Cas, “Look, I don’t wanna do this either. Half my friends won’t be there and, most importantly, I’ll just be missing you the whole time anyway.”

Mega sap.

Cas blushes beautifully, sky blue eyes brimming with happiness as he suggests, “Then skip it, stay here with me.”

Dean sighs, “You’re not playin’ fair, babe. Garth’s flying in and you know that, I can’t just ditch him and Sammy. We may not wanna go mingle or whatever but this is a huge deal for him and Gabe.”

Cas pins him with a sullen glare, groaning, “Fine, I’ll go. But only for Gabe related purposes. If any strippers try to get me, I’m coming home.”

Dean barks a laugh, “Noted,” mind suddenly inundated with visions of Cas sprinting away from a hoard of naked strippers. Sobering he adds, “I promise not to partake in any stripper related activity either, deal?”

He sticks his hand out playfully but Cas actually takes it, pulling him into a soft kiss to seal the deal. When they separate, Dean whispers in awe filled wonder, “Much better than the handshake.”

The admission makes them both dissolve into chuckles once again. Dean leads the way out of the apartment, laughter echoing off the walls of the empty hallway as they depart to meet everyone downstairs.

“Almost there, babe,” Dean cheerily states, bumping shoulders with Cas as they walk down the hall. He can’t wait to stand in front of all their friends and family, promising the rest of his life to Castiel Novak. 

But, it seems his fiancé isn’t finding the same comfort in his words. The man begins to fidget, finally blurting out, “…how do you know you won’t change your mind?”

Dean stops dead, mere feet away from the elevator, spinning to face Cas. The abrupt action brings them within kissing distance but he’s not really in the mood after hearing what Cas just revealed. 

“How could you think that, Cas?” Dean asks, tone gone soft so Cas knows he isn’t angry per se, just concerned. Taking the other man’s hands into his own, he insists, “I’m not changing my mind, ever. I thought we cleared this up already.”

Dean watches Cas’ wheels spin, cobalt blues suddenly watery as he stares a hole in the carpeted floor of the hall. Whooshing out a breath of air, finally he speaks, “I don’t…I know you aren’t going anywhere Dean. I don’t know why I said that, to be honest.”

“Because somewhere deep down in there, you’re still afraid this isn’t real,” Dean answers easily. It’s not something he can fix, but he can help Cas understand why he feels this way. It’s not an idea he hasn’t toyed with himself in reverse, but he knows a surefire way to fix it, asking, “Do you trust me?” Dean pulls the man just a little closer as he awaits his response.

Cas answers without hesitation, “Yes, of course I do.”

“Then trust me a little longer,” Dean pleads, stepping ever closer into Cas’ bubble. “Don’t assume your worst fears just because your brain won't shut up about them. Trust me, trust the process.” Adding with a slight teasing lilt, “I promise it’ll be worth it…” 

Cas smiles brightly, this time his sapphires practically glow, all the love they share reflecting back at him almost blindingly. 

“I can do that,” he agrees. Adding an important addendum, “But, I reserve the right to tell you if it’s too much.” He chuckles, clarity dawning on his face, “The reality is, if you planned on leaving me at the altar you would have left well before now.”

He’s right, still, Dean doubles down just to be sure Cas understands, “I mean yeah, but I haven’t and I won’t. I’ll still grant you one semi spoiler to our wedding day if the anxiety gets to be too much. Although, I pretty much just told you without saying so thanks for badgering it outta me.”

Cas pokes him hard in the ribs, resuming their path to the elevator, teasing, “I must admit, I feel much better now knowing you’ll definitely be saying yes. Thank you, Dean.”

Dean would love to handle this like any other wedding, live through the anxious and tense moments for hours before the ceremony or the long walk down the aisle not knowing what awaits at the end. But, if Cas can’t handle that, his comfort comes first. Hell, Dean would spoil his vows to the man if it would make him feel better. Although, he’d have to have them written already for that to be possible. 

With only seven days left he kinda has to get it together, otherwise Dean’s second fear will come true. Standing up at the altar without a clue what to say, almost as bad as the dream with his teeth falling out. Actually, experiencing realtime writers block at the altar in front of strangers and cameras is way fucking worse than dream teeth falling out, hands down. 

“You’re welcome future Mr. Winchester,” Dean slyly remarks, pretending not to notice Cas stumble as they exit the elevator. 

When he spots Garth standing with Sammy by their transportation for the evening his excitement multiplies by ten. Cas seems to catch the feeling as he gravitates towards Gabe and Stevie outside by the door.

Both men stop when their clasped hands pull in between them, hindering their movement.

“Guess I’m gonna have to let you go now,” Dean says, pretending to pry his fingers loose from Cas’ grip one by one as the other man laughs. All teasing aside, “If you need me, you know what to do…”

Cas gives him one of his best gummy grins, easily responding, “And if you need me, you know what to do. I love you, Dean.”

Dean presses his lips to Cas’ temple, murmuring, “Love you too, baby. Try and have an awesome time…”

Cas doesn’t make any promises, stealing one last peck before striding off with Gabe and Stevie giggling in his wake. 

Dean turns around to find Garth not so subtly stealing glances at…

Benny?  

Gigantor’s pointing at the exchange behind Garth’s back, eyebrows raised with his best ‘what the fuck?’ bitchface. 

What the actual fuck, indeed.

Hmmmm.

Tonight should be very interesting.

*****

As soon as Dean steps onto the brightly lit party bus, he’s met with the not entirely unappealing sight of several stripper poles embedded directly into the floor and ceiling.

“Huh,” he grunts, unable to keep the slight shock out of his voice. Colorful lights line the roof and ceiling casting the inside of the bus in a technicolor glow. The strippers wave excitedly, beckoning them closer as the group files on. “Rhonda woulda loved this…”

As it is, she’s pissed to be missing it but stripper buses and bars aren’t exactly the place for someone who’s heavily pregnant. 

Garth lets out a surprised laugh next to him, remarking with a pleased grin, “Mobile strippers, I like…”

Benny slaps them both on the back heartily, shouting, “Let’s go!”

Dean removes himself from the line of fire as the others stampede to be front and center. Briefly, he wonders if the same thing’s happening over on Cas’ bus. At first, as he watches the debauchery begin, he thinks he’ll be the odd man out but eventually Charlie comes to join him along with Donna. 

“Had your fun already, ladies?” He asks, taking a sip of his beer. “Or did you two make the same promise I did?”

“Guess we’re already whipped, huh?” Donna snorts a laugh, staring wistfully at the others. “They’re just not my Jodes.”

“Sammy seems to think so. If respecting Cas’ wishes means I’m whipped then so be it,” he says, letting Charlie lean up against him when the movement of the bus jostles her his way. “Besides, I offered he didn’t even ask,” Dean shares. 

Witnessing the scantily clad woman currently gyrating on Benny’s lap, he’s sure he made the right decision. There’s not a person on this earth he’d want that close to him other than Cas. There’s no comparison. 

“I’ve never seen the fun in it, honestly,” Charlie adds, pouring more champagne for herself and Donna as she speaks. “Stevie’s promised me quite the show on our wedding night…”

“Annnddd that’s more information than either of us needs, Charles,” Dean cracks up at her affronted glare. 

Donna’s eyes seem to zero in on something further up towards the front of the bus. She pauses, finally asking, “Is your friend eyeballing Benny? More importantly is he single?”

Dean scoots up in his seat, dislodging Charlie as he tries to see past a rainbow thong covered bulge and a glitter smeared ass. Finally, he spots Garth, this time sitting practically pressed to  Benny’s side. Sure enough, his friends shooting more than a few heated stares his other friends way. Dean searches out Sammy, finding him face down in a random strippers boobs. 

Dean pauses, unable to keep his hysterical laughter in any longer, “I forgot about that, you were just…” he mimes Sam onscreen jammed in between the nice lady’s breasts.

“Shut up, jerk,” Sammy grumbles, hiding his face in a pillow, face red as a tomato. Seems like his brother forgot too from the look of sheer embarrassment painted across his half hidden face.

Dean puts him out of his misery, playing the show with minimal continued teasing. 

“Well, it would seem our Lisa problem may not be a problem forever. If Benny can get his head outta his ass,” Charlie surmises, not even asking the important questions like Donna. 

Dean answers anyway, “Garth just ended a long term relationship a few months ago, his high school sweetheart Bess. Great girl, it just didn’t work out…”

And with the way Garth’s ogling Benny he’s starting to wonder if this is why. Bess’ family was always super religious, and not in the ‘everyone deserves Gods love’ kinda way either. He racks his brain, trying to remember if Garth’s ever expressed an interest in men, coming up with nothing. 

A new but not unwelcome development then.

Still, “We can’t interfere, remember. Like Charles said, the ball’s in Benny’s court,” he murmurs, still shocked at how forward Garth’s being. He didn’t know the little nerdy dude had it in him.

“Look, I think Benny’s finally catching on,” Donna stage whispers, champagne slowly kicking in. 

Sure enough, the bear of a man has his ice blue eyes pinned on Garth, tracking his every move while the other man’s back is turned talking to Claire. 

“Is this how me and Cas look to everyone else? The staring is…” Dean falters, not wanting to say ‘intensely creepy’ but…it ain’t far off either.

“Nah,” Donna assures though there’s a suspicious glint in her eye as Charlie giggles. 

Traitors.

The conversation comes to a definitive halt as the bus rolls to a stop outside of the venue for the evening, a delightful little gay bar named the Three Legged Cowboy.

“Holy shit,” Dean murmurs, standing stock still in awe at his luck. And he thought the Salty Swallow would be the highlight of this whole endeavor. The memory brings to attention his fiance’s absence, throwing his hands up in the air and groaning, “Dammit I wish Cas was here for this, you can’t make this shit up. Sammy, look!”

Dean points excitedly at the sign, practically jumping up and down. Sam glances up, still in a stripper daze with his face covered in glitter as his hazel eyes finally alight on the building. Dean witnesses the exact moment his brother processes the glowing cowboy hat with the bars name emblazoned across it.

Jolly Green groans, cupping his face in his hands, whining, “Of all the bars…”

“…they picked the cowboy themed one special for me, ha!” Dean chortles, sauntering away from his grump of a brother now that his mood's lifted into the stratosphere. 

Cas or not this is gonna be awesome. 

_________________________________________

Castiel celebrates the second the bus rolls to a stop outside of the art gallery. He’d pressed himself into the backseat with Stevie and Jody for the ride, both having made similar agreements with their fiancés as he and Dean did. After witnessing the events that transpired after that, especially between his brother and a very tall stripper named Cody, he still doesn’t see the appeal. The only person he’d want rolling half naked all over him is across town with their friends, hopefully having a much better time than Castiel at the moment. 

“Gabriel, come on,” He grumbles, pulling on his pint sized brother. “I don’t think Sam agreed for you to bring him home with you…” the pointed look he throws the man seems to sober him up.

Gabe slumps dejectedly, brightening as he reminds himself, “But, even if I can’t have this hunk a man, I get to keep Samwhich forever. Alright, Cassie, you can drag me away now. Good luck with nursing school, Cody!”

Cody grins widely, hand brushing absentmindedly over his oiled abs, “Thanks lil’ dude. Good luck with your…Samwhich?” 

Castiel pauses the show, waiting for Gabriel to get it out of his system as he shouts, “Heyyyy, Cody! Forgot about that guy, he was so nice.”

Castiel barks a laugh, asking, “How would you know? You spent the majority of the ride with your…”

Gabriel cuts him off, “Okayyy, Cassie. There are just some things a younger sibling should pretend they didn’t see and never speak of again, okay?” Gabriel chuckles nervously, averting his golden eyes and stealing the remote back. 

Castiel’s tempted to finish his sentence but he’d rather keep watching, so he sits back as Gabriel resumes the show.

Castiel snorts a laugh at the other man’s confusion as he waves good-naturedly before joining his coworkers back on the bus. 

“Party pooper,” Gabriel mumbles, wandering off into the art gallery to join the others with Castiel trailing behind him. As they pass the threshold to find tables stacked with games, food, and drinks Castiel’s convinced they tailored this party just for him. Gabriel takes the setting as a personal attack, “Nope, take me over to the other party. Meg said they’re at a bar called the Three Legged Cowboy.”

Oh….

“Dean’s probably enjoying that quite a bit,” Castiel mutters, trying not to let his mind wander to other possibilities. His fiancé made a promise, whether on the bus or the bar he’s keeping his hands to himself. 

Nothing to worry about, right? 

He tries, but he can’t stop himself from asking, “…are there strippers at that bar?”

Gabriel pops his golden eyes over in Castiel’s direction, attention temporarily stolen from choosing a drink. Once he catches sight of his brother’s face, the man’s countenance softens, “Hey, Dean’s not that kinda guy, you know that.”

Castiel physically shakes himself, Gabriel’s right. He’s not sure what he could have been thinking saying those words out loud, questioning Dean’s loyalty yet again, as though he would break his promise so easily. 

“You’re right, you’re right,” he mumbles, disappointed in himself for feeling this way.

Gabriel softens further, “Look, I get it. Your only concept of a bachelor party is from all that hedonistic bullshit they show on tv and in the movies. It’s not like we had anyone inviting us to theirs…” his brother swipes a hand down his face, clearing his throat. “I guess what I’m trying to say is, just because it’s being offered doesn’t mean everyone partakes, Cas. Dean promised you something, trust that he’ll keep that promise.”

“I do trust him, that’s why this is so stupid. Maybe it’s pre wedding jitters? That’s a thing, right?” He asks, beginning to worry. If he isn’t careful this could swiftly turn into an ‘I need Dean’ moment. Determined not to let that happen, he bolsters his nerves, “I’m blowing this out of proportion, never mind.”

Gabriel peers intensely at him like he’s dissecting Castiel piece by piece before nodding slowly, “Okay…but I got my eye on you, Cassie…”

“You don’t have to threaten me, Gabriel,” Castiel deadpans, walking away in the wake of his brother’s raucous laughter. 

“Toast, toast, toast!” Dorothy demands, holding up her drink in preparation for someone heeding her call. 

Of course, the only one who answers is Gabriel, “We clearly got stiffed on the venue,” he grumps. Turning to address the masses, “I don’t know about you guys but I’d rather be at a cool bar with everyone else. But, I also know it’s not all about me and some of you seem to like it so, here’s to making memories no matter where we are…”

It’s not lost on the crowd that that someone is Castiel. Honestly, he would have fled screaming from a bar. Consistently too loud and often packed with overly friendly strangers.

No thanks.

The rest of their friends disperse, choosing an activity for the next few hours. Which is how Castiel ends up sitting down to play Cards Against Humanity with Stevie, Jody, and Dorothy. Michael’s over in the corner at the pool table Castiel hadn’t noticed playing with Lisa, Gabe, and Kaia. 

Stevie reads off the prompt on the black card in her hand, “What’s that sound?”

Castiel flips through his cards, choosing the most logical option as he places it facedown on the table with everyone else’s. After Jody and Dorothy have chosen, Stevie flips them all over to read them off. 

“What’s that sound? Alright we’ve got 'butt stuff’,” she cackles, struggling to read off the rest in her fit of giggles. “‘Sexual tension’, that one must have been you, huh Cas? ‘Powerful thighs’, ha! And ‘peanut butter jelly time'. Huh. Which should I choose…”

“I think the obvious winner here is ‘butt stuff’,” Dorothy snorts a laugh as they all silently nod in agreement. 

“With this crowd? Nah,” Jody wheezes through their laughter. “But seriously, which is it Stevie?”

“I don’t know. I thought ‘powerful thighs’ was pretty funny, who had that one?” She asks, brown eyes bouncing until they land on Castiel’s raised hand. “Cas wins! Shuffle so we can go again…”

As he accepts the card deck to reshuffle so he can choose a prompt card, Castiel can’t help but latch on to the conversation happening over at the pool table. He absentmindedly chooses a card, reading it off with his focus split. 

“Honey, Mommy and Daddy love you very much. But apparently Mommy loves blank more than she loves Daddy,” he reads aloud. He can only imagine what responses this one will get. Castiel places the card down on the table, waiting for everyone else to make their choices. 

Two of Lisa’s friends traveled here for the party, they’re watching rather than playing pool while drilling her with questions. 

“Lis,” her friend Robin yells loud enough to hear over the music playing in the room. “Did you and Benny end up…?” the woman asks, making a crude gesture with her hands obviously meant to mimic fornication. 

Castiel’s ready to tune back out having heard all the details from Benny when Lisa proves that intel to be outdated. 

Smiling smugly, Lisa gushes, “We did, it finally felt like the right time. Waiting was definitely the right idea, builds up all the sexual tension, you know?”

Castiel doesn’t think it’s a coincidence Stevie said, rather loudly, that he had the ‘sexual tension’ card, which he didn’t, and now suddenly Lisa wanted to build up sexual tension between her and Benny the entire time.

Interesting…

Robin scoffs, “But you said you were…”

Lisa cuts her off, firm glare shutting her down, “We were and then we changed our minds, simple as that.”

Her friend nods, clearly not convinced but not willing to press Lisa on it in front of everyone. 

Turning his attention back to the table now that everyones finished, Castiel reads them off, “This groovy new thing called LSD, boobies, an all female reboot of the godfather. Ok who had that last one,” he asks, amused by all options but especially that one. “You win, hands down. Second runner up is boobies, third is LSD.”

“I win!” Dorothy shouts, fist pumping the air repeatedly. “Gimme the deck.”

Castiel hands it over, able to focus his attention on what’s going on over in the corner once again. 

“…still wonder if he’s too young. Great in bed but…I don’t know,” Lisa drones on, having lost her audience to her incoherent rambling. 

The wine must be kicking in early tonight.

Lisa’s other friend, Elena, chimes in, “If it doesn’t bother him or anyone else here, why do you keep bringing it up, Lis? You’re gonna drive yourself nuts.”

The ‘and us along with you’ goes unspoken but is heard loudly by everyone but Lisa. 

Or maybe not, the scowl that drops over Lisa’s features is downright terrifying. Elena backtracks, “What I meant is, if you really love him why does it matter?”

Lisa turns to take a sip from her glass, giving everyone a chance to share a ‘what the fuck’ glance before she turns back around, “You’re right, Elena. This is why I love you guys, bring it in!”

The hug looks more like a hostage situation than something wholesome shared between friends. If she can even call these women her friends, neither seem up to the task of being honest with her, which Lisa sorely needs. 

Castiel chooses to mind his business, tuning back into what’s turning out to be a fun game night with his friends.

Dorothy, having overheard the other table as well, pipes up with a small frown, “Sarah still won’t go past the kissing stage. I’m not sure how to handle this, I’m used to being a little more physical in how I show love, right? It’s just hard to read her sometimes, I guess…” she admits, clearly forlorn over the matter.

Maybe Benny and Lisa aren’t the only couple that shouldn’t be walking down the aisle in a week.

_________________________________________

“Somebody should cut Alfie off,” Dean whispers, leaning over so Charlie can hear him. “Look at him,” he gestures over in Alfie’s general direction, taking a long sip of his Cowboy Cock-tail, served in a complimentary plastic cacti. 

Mmmmm.

Dean’s not usually a fan of fruity cocktails, but this ones pretty damn good.

Dean points out, exasperatedly, “Come on, he can barely stand and he keeps interrupting Lady Peaches D-Lite…”

So what if Dean’s enjoying the drag show and his drink too much to wrangle their collective little brother, Claire’s on it. The blonde weaves through the crowd, yoinking Alfie away from the edge of the stage by the collar of his shirt and dragging him back to their table.

“I’m fine lemme alone,” he whines, slumping over almost immediately before jerking back up, begging, “More shots?”

“Absolutely not,” Dean warns, pushing every single glass and bottle of alcohol out of the kids reach. “You’re done for the night, Alfie. Drink this.” He hands the kid a glass of water, making sure he’s actually drinking before turning his focus back to the stage. 

“Sarah!” Ashley, one of the woman’s friends, calls out to her from across the table. Once she has Sarah’s attention, she asks, “How are things going with Dorothy? Any better?”

Dean’s ears perk up, not having noticed a rift between the two. 

Sarah sighs heavily, “No, we still haven’t had sex and I don’t see that changing. I’m just…I’m not attracted to her in that way. Sure we kiss, but that’s pretty much where it ends. I can’t bring myself to have sex with someone I barely know…”

Ashley rolls her eyes, giving her friend a pointed look as she asks, “Yeah but are you actually trying to get to know her, Sar?”

Busted.

If Dean knows one thing, especially having a best friend like Rhonda, a good friend will call you out for your shit in a heartbeat no matter the audience.

Sarah’s frown grows sheepish, finally admitting, “No…I guess not…”

Benny chimes in, attempting to help, “It took Lisa and I awhile too, but we finally figured things out. You’ll get there.”

Garth visibly deflates, suddenly reminded his new crush is destined to be wed in less than a week. Dean wonders if its bad to pray against all hope Benny comes to his senses and seizes the fucking moment with the other man. 

“…what? I thought Lisa said she wanted to wait?” Sarah asks, distracted from her own problems by this new tidbit of information. 

Benny shrugs, no longer making eye contact as he answers, “Guess she changed her mind…”

The other man’s eyes shift from the table over to Garth, just as he turns his attention back to the performance on stage. 

Maybe she isn’t the only one rethinking things…

Chapter Text

Wedding Day

Dean adjusts his tie and straightens his pocket square one last time. To say he’s nervous would be the understatement of the century. It’s not like Cas is going to leave him at the altar, with the way the other mans been there’s no risk of that happening at all. Still, Dean’s nerves have him on high alert and jumpy. Not the best of ways to begin their special day. The day he marries his best friend, his soul mate, the man he fell in love with in less than a week which is still fucking insane to him. But no less true today than it was the first time Dean realized he’s irrevocably in love with Castiel Novak.

“Quit daydreaming and help me,” Sam says, sneaking up on Dean and poking him in the back. The action breaks him loose from his thoughts, smacking his younger brother in the chest in retribution. 

“If you don’t know how to tie this thing why’d you choose it in the first place?” Dean asks, rolling his eyes as he helps Sammy fix his bowtie. 

“It was Gabe’s idea, not mine,” Sammy reminds him, checking his hair in the mirror over Dean’s shoulder.

Balthazar’s voice prevents Dean from responding further, ringing out over the cacophony of multiple conversations going on at once, “Five minutes til showtime! Finish making yourselves presentable and then the ceremonies will begin. We have a room for your group to watch each ceremony until it’s your turn. Am I forgetting anything Meg?”

The woman shakes her head, “No, I think that’s it,” adding with a mischievous smirk, “Good luck!”

“That doesn’t sound ominous at all,” Charlie mutters, finishing up her own checks in the mirror. 

His friend looks stunning, Stevie won’t know what hit her.

Dean shrugs his shoulders, “It’s just as likely some of us won’t be leaving here today married and I’m fairly certain they won’t be happy about it. I’ll take all the luck I can get.”

Sam heaves an annoyed sigh, “Cas isn’t going to pull a runaway bride on you, Dean.” His brother scans the room to make sure they’re mostly alone before adding, “Benny and Sarah on the other hand…”

“Yeah, I’m not worried about Cas,” Dean clarifies. “Benny…honestly I was hoping something would happen with him and Garth. But he’s determined to make things work with Lisa.”

Charlie snorts a bitter laugh, “She’s not worth the effort, I think he knows it too but…” her sentence drops as Benny saunters by towards Meg. Charlie continues once he’s passed, “…and Sarah’s an entirely different box of worms.”

Dean’s brow furrows in confusion, laughing as he says, “Charles, I don’t think that’s the saying…”

“Yeah, yeah yeah. Point is, I’ll be more disappointed if they go through with it,” She admits, eyes darting around the room to ensure no one else is coming their way.

The semi gossiping gets cut short, five minutes flying by faster than they expected.

“Time to go!” Meg shouts, opening the door to the dressing room and leading them down the hall to another room, this one equipped with a television revealing where the weddings will take place.

“Oooo,” Jody breathes out, wonder scrawled across their features as the moment hits them in real time. 

They aren’t alone, every face in the room is turned to the view of an empty altar. There’s a beautiful flowered arch standing with a podium underneath, all prepared for the officiant to perform each ceremony. 

This is really happening.

“Alright,” Balthazar calls out, tone mellowed down in respect for the seriousness of the moment. “If you’ll follow me Claire…”

Claire leaves the room after sharing a hug with each of them, blue eyes going slightly watery as it hits they may not see each other after this. 

“Come on,” Meg prods, putting an arm around Claire as they walk out of the room with the door shutting behind them.

The rest of the group makes themselves comfortable on the sofa and chairs, settling in to hopefully watch their friend get married.

*****

Dean’s eyes are glued to the tv screen as Claire positions themselves at the altar to wait for Kaia’s arrival. The wait isn’t long, Kaia walks in wearing a beautiful flowing white dress embroidered with colorful lace flowers. The mixture of traditional and hippie style fits Kaia perfectly and she looks amazing, smiling brightly as her mother walks her down the aisle. 

Happiness grows in his chest for them, burning almost as brightly as Kaia’s grin, though it falters when he takes a second glance at Claire’s face. Their frame has gone stiff, smile melting off as Kaia gets closer. Looking around the room, it doesn’t appear anyone else has noticed so he doesn’t comment, not wanting to take everyones focus away from the ceremony. It could just be nerves. 

Once Kaia’s standing at the altar, hands clasped in Claire’s now shaking grip, the officiant begins the ceremony.

“We’re gathered here today to witness the beautiful union of Claire and Kaia, two individuals who have chosen to deepen their love and commitment to one another. Today, we celebrate the love between Claire and Kaia, a love that may be new but no less strong than lovers who’ve been together for decades. Let that love transcend labels and shine brightly through shared values and unwavering support for one another…”

Dean feels himself getting more than a little misty eyed as the officiant goes on, the speech making him more emotional than he expected. He’s not sure if it’s because he’ll be standing in their place soon or a build up of joy for his friends, but he embraces it for once instead of running away. Swiping at the tears but not hiding their existence from the room. Besides, as he looks around, he’s not the only one. Alfie’s eyes are red rimmed along with Jody and Charlie. 

He tunes back in, realizing they’ve reached the important part, “Do you take Claire Amelia Newton to be your partner in love and in life from this day forth and beyond?”

Kaia squeezes Claires shaking hands, answering with ease, “I do.”

The officiant turns slightly to Claire who’s openly sobbing, asking them the same, “Do you take Kaia Ann Guevara to be your partner in love and in life from this day forth and beyond?”

Claire’s tears increase, hands releasing Kaia’s as she swipes the moisture away, stuttering through her response, “I…I…”

Dean leans forward on the literal edge of the sofa waiting for the ‘I do’ to leave Claire’s lips.

It doesn’t.

Taking a deep breath, Claire finally whispers brokenly, “I can’t marry you Kaia…”

The light leaves Kaia’s eyes, mouth drooping down in a confused frown as she gasps, “Why?”

Claire pauses, seemingly unable to get the words out, and in her silence Kaia runs from the room in tears with her mother following behind shooting a dark glare at Claire on her way past.

“Shit,” Sam murmurs, breaking the shocked silence in the room. “I knew they’d been having issues but I didn’t expect that…”

The sentiment is echoed around the room, nervous energy turning into worry as the seconds tick by. Claire walks off screen but they don’t return to the room.

*****

It takes almost twenty minutes for everyone to calm back down, by then Meg has returned, this time for Alfie. 

“You’ll be fine,” Jody promises, pulling a stiff Alfie into their embrace. “Michael loves you, don’t let what just happened ruin your wedding. Okay?”

Alfie nods, not convincingly but it’ll do. The man gets words of encouragement along with hugs from the rest of the room before disappearing into the hallway with Meg. 

The collective mood is still fairly somber as they watch him reappear on the tv screen with his grandmother at his side walking him down the aisle to meet Michael at the altar.

The energy surrounding both men is staggeringly different than what he just witnessed between Claire and Kaia. Michael’s eyes shine with love and adoration for Alfie as he arrives in front of him, taking his hands as the officiant begins the ceremony. 

“Today we are here to celebrate love. We come together to witness and proclaim the joining together of these two people in marriage. This is the union of two individuals in heart, body, mind, and spirit. Therefore, marriage is not to be entered into lightly, but reverently, honestly, and deliberately. And it is into this union that Michael and Samandriel come now to be joined.”

The officiant turns to Michael first, reciting, “Michael, you have chosen Samandriel Alfred Johnston to be your life partner. Will you love and respect him? Will you be honest with him always? Will you stand by him through whatever may come?

Without hesitation, Michael answers with a wide smile and leaking eyes, “I will.”

Alfie heaves a sigh of relief, almost slumping over with the action. 

“Poor thing, he was so worried,” Jody whispers from across the room. 

Moving on, the officiant turns to Alfie, reciting the same. Alfie answers, voice shaky but sincere, “I will.”

“And do you both promise to make necessary adjustments in your personal lives in order that you may live in a harmonious relationship together?” He asks, looking to both men.

They answer in unison, “We do.”

“Michael and Samandriel, now we come to your vows.” With a warning look he continues, “May I remind you that saying your vows is one thing but nothing is more challenging than living them day by day. What you promise today must be renewed tomorrow and each day that stretches out before you.”

The couple nods in agreement as he moves on, “Please repeat after me: I, Michael Andrew Cohen choose you, Samandriel Alfred Johnston, to be my husband, to have and to hold, from this day forward, for better for worse, for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health, in joy and in sorrow, to love and to cherish, and to be faithful to you alone. This is my solemn vow.”

Michael tearily repeats each word spoken, Alfie’s hands tightly held in his own as he makes his pledge with his almost husband following after.

“May I have the rings please?” the officiant asks, holding his hand out for a PA to hand them over. 

It’s the only part of today that Dean dislikes, not being given the option for Sammy to stand up with him as his best man, handing the rings over while he and Cas tie the knot.

On screen, Michael’s placing the ring on Alfie’s finger, “I give you this ring, that you may wear it, as a symbol of the vows we have made this day. I pledge you my love, and respect, my laughter and my tears. With all that I am, I honor you.”

Alfie’s full on sobbing, placing the ring on Michael’s left hand, “I give you this ring, that you may wear it, as a symbol of the vows we have made this day. I pledge you my love, and respect, my laughter and my tears. With all that I am, I honor you.”

The couples beaming smiles mirror on every face in the room along with a slew of teary eyes.

The officiant closes things out, announcing, “I now pronounce you married, you may seal your vows with a kiss.”

“Awwwww,” Charlie breathes out, happiness for their friends evident in her tone. “They’re so sweet together.”

*****

With one failed attempt at marriage and one success, Bal comes in a short while later to retrieve Sarah.

“Good luck!” Benny cheers as the woman quickly makes her exit, oddly enough without bothering to hug any of them.

Sam shakes his head, “Rude…”

Jody reasons, “She could be nervous.”

None of them say the alternative out loud, but they’re all thinking it.

Sarah appears on the tv, making her way down the aisle to a nervous Dorothy’s side. 

“Didn’t her sister fly in to walk her down the aisle…” Charlie asks, brow furrowed in confusion. 

It doesn’t take long for the mystery to reveal itself. 

Before the officiant can get one word out of his mouth, Sarah turns to Dorothy and says, “I can’t do this. I’m sorry.”

“Are you fucking kidding me?!” Dorothy seethes. The woman moves past a shocked Sarah, pushing one of the cameras out of her face as she shouts, “Turn off the camera!”

Her demand goes unanswered but the room empties out so Dean and crew aren’t privy to any further drama between the two.

“Wow, these odds aren’t looking too good,” Charlie mutters moments before Meg returns for Benny.

Dean looks over to Sam who glances at Charlie. They’re all thinking the same thing, this will either be the third failed marriage attempt of the day or an even worse disaster if they say ‘I do’. 

Benny appears back on screen, walking to stand near the officiant to await Lisa’s arrival. 

“There’s the lady of the hour,” Jody jokes, though it’s not completely incorrect. They’ve all been waiting for this.

Lisa walks down the aisle towards Benny, face a mask and giving nothing away though a small smile breaks as she gets closer to the altar. Once there, she grabs Benny’s hands in hers and plants a kiss on his cheek.

“Nooo,” Charlie whines, watching Benny practically melt from her touch. “Booooo, no offense to Benny of course.”

Charlie’s booing quiets down as the ceremony begins in earnest. 

The officiant speaks, “Today we gather to witness Benny and Lisa join in the union of marriage. This contract is not to be entered into lightly but thoughtfully and seriously, and with a deep realization of its obligations and responsibilities. Please remember that love, loyalty, and understanding are the foundations of a happy and enduring home.”

Turning to Benny, he asks, “Do you Benedict Lafitte take this woman Lisa Braeden to be your lawfully wedded wife, to have and to hold, in sickness and in health, in good times and woe, for richer or poorer, keeping yourself unto her for as long as you both shall live?”

Benny’s smile is shaky but the dreaded words leave his lips, “I do.”

“Ooof,” Sam grunts, face twisting into a grimace.

Jody shakes their head, “It isn’t over yet…”

The officiant recites the same vows for Lisa, waiting for her response just as he awaited Benny.

Lisa stares into Benny’s eyes as the smile melts off of her face, “I cannot marry you.”

Benny drops her hands like hot coals, backing up as far away as he can without falling off the damn stage. If it were allowed, Dean would run out there right now to comfort his friend. 

Everything about this feels wrong. 

“She waited until he said I do to pull this shit,” Sam spits out in anger. 

They watch as Benny leaves the room without another word to anyone. Lisa stands under the flower arch alone before a PA comes to escort her back down the aisle, probably to get a post breakup interview. 

“Thank god,” Charlie says, not scared to voice her true feelings on the matter.

Dean wonders if it’s too soon to slip Garth’s number to Benny.

Lisa stands outside, camera focused on her with the wall of the building as the backdrop, “I guess I’ll apologize to whomever I need to, but I’m not going to apologize to myself because I’m not sorry.”

“She’s a piece of work,” Dean shakes his head, definitely not looking forward to being anywhere near the woman. 

The scene flips to Kaia being soothed by her mother as she weeps after falling during her escape attempt. 

Claire comes outside to talk, “I love you Kaia, I do. But I’m not ready for marriage, I didn’t realize until we were standing at the altar and for that, I’m sorry. I’m not trying to hurt you, baby. I just think we need more time…”

Kaia’s mom walks a few steps away to give the illusion of privacy as her daughter responds, “No, you don’t get to treat me like this Claire. This is so fucked…” her words trail off as she shouts in a fit of rage. 

With that, Kaia storms off with her mother leaving Claire alone. 

“It’s weird seeing all this now, I had no idea…” Dean says, looking at Claire and Kaia’s falling out through new eyes. 

“Yeah,” Sammy agrees. “I wonder if they’ll be there tonight.”

“Your guess is as good as mine,” Dean answers honestly, leaning back in his seat as the show rolls on.

*****

“Jody,” Bal comes breezing through the door, beckoning for them to follow him. 

After two disasters, it’s clear they’re more than a little reluctant to do so, but eventually they follow him out to the hall. Dean, Sam, and Charlie cheer them on as they leave the room. There’s no way Donna’s saying no.

Dean watches Jody approach the altar, waiting for Donna to make her entrance. He can tell by the softening in Jody’s eyes the moment they catch sight of their soon to be wife. Donna comes into view looking gorgeous as ever. 

“You look amazing,” Jody tells her, grabbing hold of her hands as they stand under the flower arch. 

Donna giggles almost shyly, pressing a quick kiss to Jody’s cheek before the officiant begins speaking. 

“We’re gathered here today to witness the beautiful union of Jody and Donna, two individuals who have chosen to deepen their love and commitment to one another. Today, we celebrate the love between Jody and Donna, a love that may be new but no less strong than lovers who’ve been together for decades. Let that love transcend labels and shine brightly through shared values and unwavering support for one another…”

Dean watches the proceedings with rapt attention, nerves edging higher by the second as he notices there are only three of them left. 

Soon…

He returns his attention to the screen just in time, “Do you take Jody Elizabeth Mills to be your partner in love and in life from this day forth and beyond?”

Donna smiles cheerily through tears of joy, answering, “I do.”

The officiant turns his eyes on Jody next, asking the same, “Do you take Donna Joyce Hanscum to be your partner in love and in life from this day forth and beyond?”

Jody returns that bright smile aimed her way, murmuring, “I do.”

With the exchange of rings, the officiant pronounces them married as they seal it with a kiss.

*****

Meg arrives for Charlie next, “Come on, don’t wanna keep Stevie waiting.”

Charlie hugs them both tightly, “Wish me luck, guys.”

“You don’t need it,” Sam argues, lifting her up off of the ground slightly. 

The action makes her break into giggles, easing the last of the tension remaining in the room. There’s no question for the three of them, just a matter of saying the words to legally seal the deal.

Dean refrains from lifting her, not wanting to wrinkle her outfit, but he does give Charlie a solid hug sending her off with Meg with a broad smile and a bounce in her step. 

She reappears on screen, ready and waiting under the floral arch as Stevie sashays down the aisle. Charlies eyes shine as she tracks Stevie’s movement up until the woman’s standing right in front of her. With clasped hands, they face the officiant as he begins. 

Realizing the speech is mostly recycled from Michael and Alfie’s ceremony, Dean waits patiently as they approach the vows. 

“Please repeat after me: I, Charlotte Celeste Bradbury choose you, Stevie Isabelle Katongo, to be my wife, to have and to hold, from this day forward, for better for worse, for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health, in joy and in sorrow, to love and to cherish, and to be faithful to you alone. This is my solemn vow.”

Charlie repeats the vow with Stevie following after, neither woman able to tear their eyes away from the other. 

“May I have the rings please?” the officiant asks, holding his hand out.

Charlie takes hers, placing it on Stevie’s finger, swearing to her, “I give you this ring, that you may wear it, as a symbol of the vows we have made this day. I pledge you my love, and respect, my laughter and my tears. With all that I am, I honor you.”

Stevie places the ring on Charlies finger, pledging the same, “I give you this ring, that you may wear it, as a symbol of the vows we have made this day. I pledge you my love, and respect, my laughter and my tears. With all that I am, I honor you.”

The officiant closes things out, announcing, “I now pronounce you married, you may seal your vows with a kiss.”

Charlie takes full advantage, dipping Stevie as she kisses her with all she has. 

“Well, damn,” Dean chuckles, happy for his friends. “I don’t know if you and Gabe can top that.”

Sam rolls his eyes, grumbling, “This isn’t a competition Dean.”

*****

“Let’s get ya hitched, Sammy,” Dean ignores his brother in favor of pushing him towards the now open doorway where Bal stands waiting. 

“We’re trusting you not to peek, Dean,” Bal warns, leaving him alone to watch the ceremony. 

Dean mimics the man with a high pitched lilt, “We’re trusting you not to peek, Dean.”

He could, but he won’t. With Cas walking Gabe down the aisle it’d be the perfect sneak peek to how his future husband looks in his wedding attire, but he wants the surprise. Dean won’t ruin it by letting his curiosity get the better of him.

On the screen, Sam’s standing at the altar looking wide eyed and scared. Dean can see their mother sitting in the front row of seats, one of the few people they were allowed to invite, motioning to Sam. It looks like she mouths ‘calm down’ but Dean has to hurriedly close his eyes when he realizes Gabe’s about to come down the aisle. 

That was close.

He waits patiently until the officiant begins speaking to be sure Cas has gone back to Group A’s room to wait his turn.

The ceremony itself is identical to the ones before but Dean can’t stop himself from standing and clapping with tears of joy rolling down his cheeks when his brother and Gabe say ‘I do.’ 

Dean pauses to recognize the enormity of what Sammy just did, peaceful silence filling the space until Bal shows up for him. With his nerves returning full force, Dean follows Bal out of the room towards the altar.

_________________________________________

Castiel can’t stop bouncing his knee, nerves getting the better of him as he watches Sam and Gabe walk off hand in hand. It was rough watching Kaia and Claire flame out along with Benny and Lisa, he’s glad to see not every relationship built during the show failed. Besides, Lisa did Benny an enormous favor, making a decision he clearly wasn’t going to choose on his own. Castiel didn’t get to know Sarah as well as Dorothy but from what she shared, they weren’t destined for a long term relationship either let alone a marriage. 

Meg barrels into the room, announcing, “Your turn, Clarence. Come on.”

“I’m really beginning to rethink this tentative friendship we’ve formed Megan,” Castiel teases, following the woman out of the room and down the hall. 

“Face it, you’re stuck with me now. We’ve bonded, no take backs allowed,” She insists, turning to throw a cheeky smile his way. 

Unfortunately, she’s not completely wrong. Castiel’s made friends here that are likely to remain in his life for quite some time, and he’s loathe to admit he looks forward to seeing them all in the 'real world’. 

Well, maybe not Lisa.

All thoughts of future socializing fade away upon entry into the brightly lit room outfitted for the ceremonies. The flower arch looks magical up close, the officiant stands waiting where Castiel’s meant to join him. Meg falls back as he walks up, turning just in time for his eyes to go wide, mouth falling in an audible gasp as Dean begins to walk down the aisle with Mary on his arm. 

His fiancé looks gorgeous in a fitted ocean blue tux with a floral print tie and matching pocket square, fitting right in with Castiel’s vision for their attire. 

It’s perfect.

Castiel feels the first of many tears slide down his flushed cheeks as Dean gets closer. Mary walks away to sit, leaving Dean at his side ready for the ceremony to start.

“You look breathtaking, angel,” Dean murmurs, emeralds twinkling with unshed tears. 

Castiel’s voice shakes slightly, drowning in the intense emotion threatening to pull him under, “Have I told you how lucky I am today?” He asks, gaining steady footing as his fiancé beams.

“No, not yet,” Dean readily answers, stepping further into Castiel’s space, eyes darting down to his lips. 

If only…

The officiant clears his throat, ready to get this show on the road as he begins, “We’re gathered here today to witness the joining of these two souls in matrimony. Creating a loving partnership, a strong foundation for an enduring marriage. I understand you’ve written your own vows?”

The couple nods, with that confirmation he gives Castiel the floor, handing the rings over for afterwards. 

Shoring up his nerves, Castiel begins to speak, staring right into his fiancés moss greens, “Dean, I believe in you, the person you will grow to be and the couple we will be together. With my whole heart, I take you as my husband, acknowledging and accepting your faults and strengths, as you do mine. I promise to be faithful and supportive and to always make our love and happiness my priority. I will be yours in plenty and in want, in sickness and in health, in failure and in triumph. I will dream with you, celebrate with you and walk beside you through whatever our lives may bring. You are my person, my love and my life, today and always.”

Castiel’s hand trembles, placing the ring on Dean’s finger with a sense of peace he’s never felt before.

Through a fresh bout of tears, Dean stutters through his own vows, holding tightly to Castiel’s hands, “Cas, I promise to give you the best of myself and to ask of you no more than you can give. I promise to accept you the way you are,” Dean emphasizes every word, grip tightening further but not enough to hurt. The words break Castiel, deluge of tears falling as he comes to understand his almost husbands meaning. Dean continues, wiping away some of Castiel’s tears as he speaks, “I fell in love with you for the qualities, abilities, and outlook on life you have, and won’t try to reshape you in a different image. I promise to respect you as a person with your own interests, desires, and needs, and to realize that those are sometimes different, but no less important than my own. I promise to keep myself open to you, to let you see through the window of my personal world into my innermost fears and feelings, secrets and dreams. I promise to grow along with you, to be willing to face change as we both change in order to keep our relationship alive and exciting. And finally, I promise to love you in good times and in bad, with all I have to give and all I feel inside in the only way I know how…completely and forever.”

Dean slides the ring onto Castiel’s finger, the cold of the metal marking the moment in his mind. The very moment he became Castiel Winchester, Dean Winchester’s husband. A rush of emotion comes over him, so much so he almost doesn’t catch the officiant pronouncing them married and his directive to kiss.

Luckily, Dean isn’t as distracted, pressing into his space immediately to take his lips in a sweet kiss. There’s a tease of tongue before Dean pulls away, head nodding towards Mary signaling his desire to keep things PG for her benefit. Castiel doubts she would mind but he respects his husbands wishes. 

Husband.

“You’re my husband now,” Castiel breathes out in shock, spinning his ring on his finger as they walk back down the aisle. 

Dean lets out a slightly wet chuckle, “Yeah, babe. We did it, we’re married.”

Mary sneaks up behind them, “I’m so happy for you boys.”

Sam comes running, pulling them both into a congratulatory hug along with Gabe following behind. It quickly turns into a group embrace and Castiel finds he’s perfectly okay being in the middle of all these people. They’ve become family, not strangers he needs to be wary of. Family means some boundaries become flexible, and this feels nice so he goes with it. 

For now.

When they break apart, Mary asks a very important question, “So, what now?”

Gabe explains, “According to Bal and Meg, they’re kicking us out.”

Sammy snorts a laugh, “Not quite, they said we can stay in the apartments for the weekend, there’s going to be a reception tomorrow for everyone that got married. But we have to be out on Monday so I guess that means we’re coming home.”

“What about the ones who didn’t get married,” Dean asks, brow furrowing in concern.

Sam grimaces, shooting a look over to Gabe before answering, “Benny was pretty pissed, apparently he already left to start packing. Lisa’s trying to stay for the reception but production started packing for her, according to Meg, and Kaia left with her mom to go home. I don’t know about Claire and no one can find Dorothy or Sarah.”

Castiel sighs, wishing everyone had gotten the ending they desired. Although Benny’s much better off without Lisa, it won’t erase the heartbreak he’s more than likely feeling with how things ended. He doesn’t have enough information on why Claire said no to Kaia, but he wishes them happiness as well. They deserve it. Kaia’s probably feeling torn down now, but its’ better than having to embark on a messy divorce in the future. 

_________________________________________

Dean shuts the tv off, turning to Sammy, “We pretty much know what happens from here and they didn’t film the reception anyway. Is it almost time to leave?”

Sam starts to answer, “Yeah, Gabe said…”

A knock on the hotel room door cuts him off mid-sentence.

“Hey! Open up, it’s your hubby,” Gabe shouts, snickering on the other side of the door.

Sam rolls his eyes fondly, standing to open the door to reveal their husbands on the other side.

“I missed you Sammykins,” Gabe whines, practically trying to climb the man.

“Gabe, it’s barely been half a day and you guys were right down the hall,” Sam groans, pressing a kiss to his husbands temple before disentangling from his octopus hug. His brother frowns, “Why are there candy wrappers stuck in your hair, Gabe. I swear this candy addiction…”

Dean chuckles, tuning out a well worn argument between the two.

Cas walks over, plopping down on the couch next to Dean as they share a chaste kiss. “I’d say I missed you but Rocky missed you more.”

Dean perks up, “Really? Miss my lil buddy too, did you make sure he was good before you left?”

Cas nods, small smile twisting his lips, “Crated with his favorite toys. He shouldn’t get into trouble while we’re gone.”

Dean’s never been a dog person per se but when he and Cas found Rocky shivering and wet on the side of the road not long after the show ended, he couldn’t resist taking the little guy in. Now, Rocky goes everywhere with them. Well, everywhere but to this reunion. Not exactly the best place to bring a pet, even if Rocky’s sort of their emotional support dog now.

Cas pins him with those puppy dog eyes he learned to perfect from Sam, begging, “You’re coming back to our room tonight, right? Don’t leave me alone with Gabe again…”

He can’t help but break into laughter listening to his husbands pleas but Cas’ glare shuts him up pretty quick. Dean promises, “I swear I am. Sammy can have Gabe back and all his sugary snacks.”

The couple cracks up, watching as Sam tries yet again to convince his husband to switch to the organic candy he found at the store back home. A completely pointless endeavor. Eventually Gabe changes the subject to Sammy’s visible annoyance.

“Ready for some drama?” Gabe asks, pulling Sam back towards the door as he waggles his eyebrows with glee. “I can’t wait to see Lisa…” the tiny terror singsongs, winking at Dean.

“Ughhh, don’t,” Dean grumbles, it's bad enough he’s going to see the woman in person for the first time in a year, he doesn’t need it shoved in his face.

The couples make their way to the elevator, headed downstairs to the space Netflix rented out for the reunion episode.  

Castiel squeezes his hand before they walk in to get all dolled up for the cameras.

“We’ve got this,” he whispers, pinning Dean with his cobalt blues.

Dean borrows some of Cas’ calm, pushing open the door to take his first steps into the room.

Chapter Text

The doors swing wide revealing a large ballroom full of cameras and other equipment. Lights are rigged up to focus on the area in the middle of the room where they’ve placed two couches and an armchair for the reunion. Dean only catches a glimpse before they’re being directed by a PA to the dressing room where they can be fussed over for hair and makeup. 

Cas flinches away from the woman that approaches him, sapphire eyes tracking her warily.

“I know, babe. I don’t like it either,” Dean commiserates with his husband. He’s well aware the flinch wasn’t entirely because of having to wear makeup again but it seems to help either way.

Cas settles slightly, allowing the woman to lean in and begin her task. Gabe and Sam get the same treatment further down the line of chairs set up in front of a long vanity. The process is short for them since they’re not getting a full face of makeup like some of the others. Before Cas can get fidgety again they’e already up and out of the seats headed back out to the main room. Upon their reentry, Dean catches sight of two faces he hasn’t seen in over a year.

He leans over as they walk, whispering to Cas, “Really didn’t expect either of them to show up.”

Cas looks up, finally noticing Bela and Gordon as ocean eyes go wide and his lips pop open with an ‘oh’ of surprise. 

“Bela! Gordo! How’s tricks?” Gabe bellows, running up to the pair with maniacal glee in his eyes. 

Sam points his hazel eyes up to the ceiling, hands in prayer position as he jokingly mumbles, “Lord give me strength…”

“You married him,” Dean reminds Sam, laughter intensifying with the bitch face his brother turns on him. 

The former couple’s yanked out of an intense staring contest by Gabe’s yelling. Bela’s eyes hold an air of distrust for Gordon while the man keeps shooting hopeful looks in Bela’s direction. 

This is gonna get interesting. 

Dean’s internal monologue doesn’t get much further than that, as they take their seats the rest of the cast begins to trickle in. 

He’s the first to spot them, jumping up as Claire makes her approach holding tightly to Kaia’s hand, bright smiles on both their faces. 

Standing, he greets them both, “Good to see you…” pausing, he adds, “…soooo does this mean you’re back together or…?”

Claire shakes their head, mystery lurking in their blue eyes, teasing, “Can’t say until those cameras are rolling, old man.”

Dean rolls his eyes, mumbling, “Thirty-three ain’t old for your information.”

Cas chooses this exact moment to chime in, “Well, you’re definitely not the oldest but you’re older than me, Charlie, Stevie, Alfie, your brother, Sarah’s the same age so that doesn’t count, Benny, Dorothy, Bela, Claire, and Kaia so…”

Dean cuts off his husband’s recounting of just how old he really is in comparison to most of them. “Thanks for that Cas…let’s use those powers for good though, yeah?”

He can hear Gabe whisper to Sam, “What’s that make Dean? Can’t be a cougar that’s for old ladies…”

Dean groans, pinning his brother in law with a glare, “One, Cas is damn near thirty. B, you’re older than both of us assbutt. Three…I’m not a fucking cougar,” he whines lamely, his speech does nothing but encourage the man as usual. 

Before Gabe can open his big mouth to spew more nonsense, Cas speaks up again.

His husband pauses, deep in concentration as he pivots, “I could give you a list of everyone older than you if that helps.”

“Maybe later, baby,” Dean chuckles lightly, pulling Cas into his side with one arm. The action distracts his husband briefly, enough for that part of the conversation to drop as more people begin to filter into the room.

With Missouri’s arrival, they take their seats waiting for her to speak as she settles into an armchair in the middle of the room. The sofas fill up, along with a few chairs set up behind them, and from what he can see everyone’s here.

Camera’s begin to roll as Missouri gives the introduction for the special episode.

“Welcome to the first ever reunion show for Love is Blind’s LGBTQIA+ Edition.” Missouri says, wide smile on her face and a warm twinkle in her deep brown eyes. “Like our predecessors, we set out to answer a simple question, is love truly blind? During the course of this three week social experiment, two couples called it off in paradise, three chose not to move forward at the altar, and five couples solidified their love choosing to go through with their weddings. Today we’ll get the chance to catch up on where you all are now along with watching some never before scene footage and getting to know a few special guests.” She says, adjusting in her seat before they begin. 

“Let’s start with the obvious question,” Missouri says, immediately training her gaze on Kaia and Claire. “You two look pretty cozy…” She lets the sentence trail off, waiting for them to fill in the blanks.

Claire looks to Kaia, answering through a wild grin, “We’re back together. Not engaged,” they clarify, “…but definitely together.”

Dean doesn’t react audibly but almost everyone else does with a collective ‘awww’ reverberating through the room. He’s more than ecstatic for the young couple, especially after getting context on why Claire didn’t go through with the wedding. Their intention wasn’t to hurt Kaia, they just weren’t ready and that’s okay. Time’s like this he has to remind himself that’s the usual reaction to being asked to marry someone in less than a month. 

Does that make the rest of them the weirdos?

Probably.

“We’ll catch up with you a little more later on, but I’m happy to see you’ve worked things out,” Missouri shares honestly. She doesn’t linger on the topic, moving on, “I see all of you are still in wedded bliss, no divorces on the horizon. I’d call that a win, wouldn’t you say?” She asks, smiling as they all nod back in agreement. Turning her attention to the remaining cast, “I know the rest of you are still on the search for love…” she pauses, correcting herself, “Most of you…” she flips her card, moving on without explaining herself to everyone else’s confusion.

Victors face scrunches up, perplexed as he looks to Jo who shrugs. Gordon’s expression doesn’t change, eyes still glued to Bela who’s purposely looking anywhere but his direction. Meanwhile the disappearing brides Sarah and Dorothy are present but completely silent. Lisa’s been oddly quiet as well since her arrival, with Missouri’s comment her behavior peeks his interest, maybe she finally found someone. Although, Missouri could just as easily be talking about the ‘secret' Dean’s actually privy to and it definitely doesn’t involve Lisa.

Hmmmm.

Benny speaks up, shattering any anonymity he’d been holding on to but the man’s broad smile makes it clear. This is news he’s been waiting to share.

“Except for me,” his friend says, mirth audible in his voice. Looking to Missouri to make sure it’s okay, he continues, “I left with a mess of emotions jumbled up in my head. Anger was a big one,” he admits. “I didn’t understand how someone could wait ’til we’re at the altar, ’til I said ‘I do’…I felt it coulda been handled better.” The man’s ice blue eyes shift to Lisa’s wide eyed pained stare before moving away again. Benny goes on, tone steady and true, revealing the best part, “But, this experience wasn’t a total loss. It led me to someone who’s become very special to me, someone I fall in love with more and more everyday, someone who wears my ring proudly in anticipation of the day we plan to wed. My fiancé, Garth.”

Dean can’t help but snort internally on that last dig, though his main emotion is joy for his best friends.

Missouri’s chocolate brown eyes swell with happiness, “Congratulations, Benny. I’ve got questions, but I’d rather ask you both…”

Knowing exactly what’s coming, Dean watches the moment realization hits Lisa and the dark glare she pins on Garth as he walks out to take his seat next to Benny.

Missouri welcomes him to the show, “Hello, Garth, it’s nice to meet you in person.”

“You as well,” his friend replies, sappy smile pasted to his face.

“As I understand it, you and Dean are childhood friends?” Missouri asks, though he’s sure she already knows the answer.

Either from production, hearing of Garth’s antics during their ‘one last hurrah’ party, or that secret knowing the woman seems to have that Dean hasn’t quite pinned down yet.

Garth nods vigorously, answering, “I’ve known Dean since fifth grade. He and Sam are the best friends I’ve ever had, really the only friends I’ve ever had.”

Benny squeezes his hand briefly, pressing a kiss to his cheek, “Now ya got me too, love.”

Another resounding ‘awwww’ echoes through the room from all but Lisa who looks like she just sucked a lemon. 

“With Benny living in Louisiana, how are you handling the distance?” Missouri asks Garth.

Benny corrects her assumption, “I moved to Lawrence months ago, couldn’t stand being so far away from each other. Plus with it getting so close to the wedding it just makes sense.”

“No fair,” Charlie groans playfully. “You double date don’t you? I’m so jealous…or would it be triple with Sam and Gabe…?” She asks, peering his way as though he has a magical answer to her strange question. 

Dean won’t confirm or deny, what happens in Lawrence stays in Lawrence.

Garth doesn’t seem to share his feelings on the matter, answering, “Yup, at least twice a month. They’re our best friends of course we do.”

“Life has a way of giving us what we need, not what we think we want,” Missouri cuts in, just missing Lisa’s hurt stare. “I’m glad it’s working out for the two of you,” She says, moving on to the next topic. 

Garth makes a swift exit after sharing a brief kiss with Benny. The man runs over, quickly squeezing Dean, Sam, and Gabe in an obligatory ‘Garth Hug’ before disappearing through the door he came through earlier. 

“He’s a hugger,” Dean explains with a chuckle. “You get used to it.”

Missouri giggles melodically, “I can see that.” Turning to the television in the room, she announces, “We’ve pulled a few bloopers and unseen footage for today, let’s take a look.”

The television lights up with various moments Dean recalls happening but doesn’t remember seeing earlier during the rewatch. It never really dawned on him how much probably got cut to edit the show into something watchable. Shared laughter spreads through the room as they watch the ‘bloopers’ for the first time, until the television shows one of Lisa’s confessionals production cut from the show.

That’s when all hell breaks loose.

The woman’s face fills the screen, an unsteady drunken mess in her seat as she rambles on.

“One night…that’s all I’d need is one. Show him a few tricks I’ve got, things I bet little Castiel,” She spits mockingly. “..wouldn’t have a clue about. All he does is whine all the time anyway, no clue what Dean could see in someone like that. It’s one thing to date younger and entirely different to date someone who acts like a fucking child half the time. What? Does he need to hold Dean's hand to take a shit too? Grow the fuck up…” she rails, words slurring more and more until eventually she falls off of her seat with a thump. “Owww! Motherfucker!” she shouts in pain.  

A PA comes to help her, both of them disappearing from the shot.

The ballroom grows uncomfortably silent.

Dean’s left speechless, mouth gaping open like a fish as he tries to compute what the fuck she just said about his Cas.

Cas, on the other hand, has plenty to say in his own defense.

“So lusting after my husband when he clearly wouldn’t touch your flat ass with a ten foot pole wasn’t enough?” Cas asks, each word soaked in venom. Charlie inhales sharply at the insult, holding back laughter with everyone else in the room. Sassy Cas is present and accounted for. “Bullying an autistic person isn’t really a ‘good look’ either, Lisa. Face it, you’re a sad, moronic, insecure, duplicitous old hag,” Cas slows down his award winning speech, a thoughtful look passing over his face.

Dean tries valiantly to ignore the first whispers of arousal building in his gut from hearing his husband stand up for himself like this. Stand up for them, like this. 

Cas blazes on, “We all tried to give you the benefit of the doubt but you never deserved it. You’re an awful, disturbed individual and I hope you get the help you so desperately need.”

Lisa’s struck silent, sitting stock still in her seat, eventually sputtering, “I…I’m so sorry, Castiel. Both of you…I don’t even remember saying those things. I would never make fun of…” her words trail off when she takes a peek at Cas’ face.

Cas pins her with a dark glare, sapphire eyes glinting with malice Dean’s glad isn’t turned his way.

Missouri jumps in, having remained silent while Cas unloaded on her, “Do you accept her apology, Castiel?”

Looking to the older woman, his cobalt blues soften, shoulders loosening as he relaxes into Dean’s warmth. With a heavy sigh, he admits, “No, I don’t. She can’t be trusted to tell the truth at this point. Someone once told me ‘drunk men tell no lies’. If we remove the unnecessary gendering, liquor lowers your inhibitions and the truth tends to come out a little easier. So even if she ‘doesn’t remember’ saying it, more than likely she meant every word…” he reasons with a shrug.

Missouri nods in agreement, to Lisa’s shocked gasp, still she says, “Someone shows you who they are, you listen the first time. Wise words my grandmother shared with me when I was a child and they haven’t failed me yet.”

If that’s the case, Dean could’ve saved himself a ton of trouble in the past if he’d just ‘listened the first time’.

“It seems this conflict won’t be resolved with a simple apology so we’ll leave it here,” She says, brown eyes bouncing between Cas and Lisa. “Let’s move on, this former couple experienced a pretty public and emotional breakup after leaving the pods…”

They know exactly who she’s referring to as all eyes pivot to Bela and Gordon. 

Sure enough, a clip begins to play, rehashing the awful breakup between the two of them. Bela’s face breaks into an uncomfortable grimace as it rolls and Gordon averts his eyes. 

Once it finishes, Missouri asks, “Gordon, would you handle this situation differently now that some time has passed for you to reflect?”

The man seems to take a moment to roll the question around in his mind before responding, “Yes, for one I would’ve told her in private, not in front of everyone else. That argument…the entire situation was wild, and Bela deserved more respect than that.”

Bela’s frown deepens, agreeing, “It was wild, wildly inappropriate, and I would've appreciated a private discussion. Instead I was embarrassed on national television.”

Gordon’s eyes lower to the ground in shame, fingers fidgeting in his lap. 

Silence reigns, growing thicker by the moment so Missouri jumps back in with another question, “Do either of you regret not being able to finish the experiment with everyone else?”

Gordon nods, “I know it’s my own fault, but it’s hard seeing everyone else married and happy. I wanted that for us and I fucked up any chance of it happening.”

Bela nods, agreeing, “I feel the same, honestly. That was real love we built in those pods. I had to suffer through all the heartache like any other breakup when I went home, missing an asshole that lied to me but still loving him despite it all. It was rough to say the least,” she admits, though it looks damn near painful for her to say the words out loud. 

Gordon turns, speaking to her directly now, “Bela, I should have told the truth and I’m so sorry for lying to you, for my reaction to you leaving me. You had every right to do so, I was just blinded by my own shit. Being worried about judgement for being poly…so fucking stupid in hindsight,” he explains, morose tone taking over as his shoulders droop in defeat. 

Missouri asks, innocently though the question is anything but, “If given a second chance with one another, would you take it?”

Gordon immediately replies, “Yes.”

Bela’s not so quick to answer, eventually saying, “I don’t know, I’m not sure I can trust you…”

Hopeful, Gordon asks, “We could start with a date?”

Bela pauses, eyebrows scrunching up before asking a very important question, “Are you really single this time?”

Gordon goes silent, avoiding any direct eye contact, more telling than if he’d spoken the actual words.

“Thought so,” Bela sighs, turning back to face front not sparing the man one more glance. 

_________________________________________

Castiel can’t believe the lack of integrity and basic human decency being shown here today, first Lisa and now Gordon. He’s calmed some from the mini confrontation between he and Lisa but the feelings try to resurface briefly in defense of Bela. He pushes it back down, Bela can clearly handle herself. 

Missouri moves on, turning her attention to Claire and Kaia, “You may be back together now, but that isn’t how you ended things the day of your almost wedding. Let’s take a quick look…”

A clip plays starting with the whirlwind romance between the two and ending with Kaia storming off with her mother leaving Claire heartbroken outside the wedding venue. 

Kaia speaks first, “Looking back, I can respect Claire’s decision. We’d been having arguments, the normal type you’d have as you get to know someone in a new relationship, but we definitely weren’t ready for a marriage. Not then and not now.”

Claire agrees, “I knew Kaia was gonna be pissed as soon as I realized I couldn’t go through with it, but…I couldn’t do it. I’d rather have her with me now as my girlfriend than to have forced a marriage we’re not ready for and lost her entirely.”

Kaia’s sappy smile says it all, mirrored by Claire as they embrace. Castiel’s heart soars for the couple, glad to see his friends didn’t give up on each other entirely.

“You two are just the sweetest,” Missouri coos, her words causing a flush to wash over Claire’s face as they go tomato red. “Now, this next couple hasn’t reconnected after choosing not to go forward with marriage. Here’s a clip showing their brief journey together…”

Sarah and Dorothy pop up on the television, randomized shots showing the women meeting in the pods, getting to know one another, their arguments and laughter, all the way up to the eventual abrupt end.

“Sarah, now that you’ve had a reminder of what led up to it, what influenced your decision to walk away the most?” Missouri asks curiously. 

Sarah shifts in her seat, glancing over at Dorothy before revealing, “Honestly? A conversation I had with my sister shortly before it was our turn. I realized if I couldn’t even be physical with Dorothy, we had no business getting legally married.”

Dorothy’s jaw drops, sharp edge to her tone as she asks, “Your sister had a hand in this?”

Sarah nods sheepishly, “I know, I know. We agreed to make the decision independent of any outside influences just like any other experi…”

Dorothy cuts her off, shaking her head no vehemently, “No, that’s what you wanted. This was always just an experiment to you…” she pauses, eyes welling with tears. “But, it never felt that way for me. I fell in love with you and you…”

Sarah cuts in, “Don’t try and twist this, you did agree. We said we were only in this for the experiment. No wedding, no real feelings. If you allowed yourself to fall in love that’s not on me.”

“Allowed myself?!” Dorothy shouts, incredulous glare trained on Sarah. “God, I see why you and Lisa have been friends for so fucking long. Both cut from the same damn cloth…”

Lisa scrunches down in her seat on the edges of Castiel’s vision, probably out of fear of being dragged into even more drama. 

Missouri breaks the argument up with wise words, “Bottom line, if you’d been here for genuine reasons who knows what may have blossomed between you two. While this is a social experiment, it really only works if you go through it with the intention of falling in love. Maybe you would have been better off applying for The Bachelor.”

Sarah’s countenance flips from indignation to a sheepish frown, chuckles ringing out through the room. 

With that handled, their host moves on, “Although Benny and Lisa’s ten year age gap dominated many discussions this season, I believe this couple has them beat by about four years. Let’s take a look back at Michael and Alfie’s relationship in the pods.”

Castiel's thoughts drift, considering the generational gap between the two for the first time, eventually interrupted by the clip ending and Missouri’s melodic tone.

“Michael, Alfie,” Missouri turns to the couple seated on the other side of Dean. “How are you adjusting to married life?”

Alfie looks over to Michael, trepidation written across his face. A stone drops to the bottom of Castiel’s gut, concern building the longer they remain silent. Once again, he curses production for not allowing them contact with most of the cast before the reunion otherwise he’d already know what’s going on with his friends.

Michael heaves a sigh, finally answering, “We love each other and we’re committed to the vows we made but…we’re in marriage counseling right now for…various reasons.”

Dean turns to him, mouthing ‘vague much?’ with a roll of his emerald greens. 

Missouri must feel the same, asking, “Reasons such as?”

Alfie tilts his head back on the sofa, finally muttering, “My shopping addiction and Michael’s communication issues.”

“Not just my communication issues, we both could use help there,” Michael speaks up, denying the blame falls solely on him. 

The reality is, there shouldn’t be blame coming from either side, not if they actually want to resolve their issues, but it’s not Castiel’s job to point that out. 

“Okay, our communication issues and my shopping addiction. Happy?” Alfie asks, tone fraught with snarky sarcasm. 

Oh.

Awkward silence prevails for a moment too long, everyone trying to pretend they didn’t just witness exactly why the pair need therapy.

“Sorry,” Alfie murmurs, realizing a bit too late how his tone sounded. “It’s hard opening up about this in front of everyone. Especially when everyone else seems to be functioning just fine in their marriages…”

Castiel nearly laughs out loud from his friends assumption though Gabriel beats him to it. 

“Ha! Do you know how often me and this hunk’a’man argue? Marriage isn’t easy, especially when you do it the way we did, bud. We’re not judging you, trust me,” his brother assures Alfie. 

“Charlie consistently leaves clumps of hair in the shower drain until it starts to back up. By then, you’re showering as the tub fills with water at the same time it’s just…fucking gross. I love her but sometimes…” Stevie says, pinning her wife with a playful glare. 

Charlie’s eyes widen in shock, blurting, “So should I tell them about the sheet debacle?”

Sheet debacle?

Before Charlie can make good on her threat, Donna chimes in with her own marital complaint. 

“Jodes is the love of my life but her idea of ‘clean’ and mine are two very different things,” Donna explains, grimacing slightly. “I'd say therapy’s always better than just shouting at each other until you’re blue in the face…not that we do that…” she trails off.

Jody bursts out in laughter, “We definitely do, but what works for one couple could be untenable for another. Trust me, Donna and I aren’t against the idea of therapy if we felt it was necessary.”

Alfie seems to have calmed with everyone else’s admission that married life isn’t all rainbows and sunshine. 

“Cas leaves his wet towel on the bathroom sink after he showers and he yells at me almost everyday for leaving random coffee mugs around the house. Empty or not. So basically moldy coffee mugs,” Dean says, pausing as understanding dawns on his face. “Now that I’m saying this out loud, I’m the asshole in this scenario,” he mutters, volume decreasing with every word. 

Yes, exactly the point Castiel’s been making for months. 

Castiel has been actively working on remembering to put his towel back, he’s still getting used to the new bathroom layout now that it’s done being remodeled. But, at least he’s trying. They have a dishwasher for a reason, it’s not that hard for Dean to put his mug there when he’s done, but the man seems to just leave them wherever he’s standing at the moment. Thankfully, his husband seems to have finally hit a breakthrough. 

“Well, according to our therapist, it really is the age gap,” Alfie shares, countenance somewhat brighter with Dean’s accidental comedy routine. “Michael’s 37 now, he’s had far more time to get established financially, learn how to budget properly, all that sort of stuff. I went from high school, into the military, then back to my grandma’s house and she took care of my finances for me most of the time. I’m 23 with a compulsive shopping problem and no job so basically a recipe for disaster…” he trails off, mood plummeting once again.

Michael cuts in, assuring his husband, “You’re not a disaster and it’s not ‘compulsive’ you just have a habit of occasionally buying ridiculously overpriced clothes. A shirt has no good reason to cost over $200 by itself, Alfie. You could get an entire outfit for less than that at several stores I can think of off the top of my head.” He explains, blue eyes softening as Alfie’s gaze meets his. "Everything else is normal at your age, like the therapist said as long as we’re open to working on this together we’ll be fine.”

“It sounds like you’re in good hands,” Missouri pipes up, having gone silent while everyone shared their various marital trials and tribulations. “Most marriages deal with the same types of issues, Alfie. Age gap or not we all come from different households with differing values and even cleaning systems.” Her eyes drift to Jody, Donna, Charlie, and Stevie causing the couples to giggle almost in unison. “Merging two lives can get a little messy, just make sure you hold onto each other through it instead of drifting apart. As long as you don’t lose sight of your love for one another, it’ll work out.”

Missouri’s about to continue when Lisa clears her throat, capturing everyones attention, though her next sentence catches everyone off guard.

“I really am happy for all of you all,” she says, looking from one couple to the next. Her voice grows wistful, “It’s tough, watching the show back it was obvious that I was working through some things and I didn’t like the person I saw…” Her next words come out shaky, “The truth is…I may have walked away from Benny but if I’m being honest, he should have left me long before then…”

Castiel’s sure you could hear a pin drop with the hush that falls over the room, including the low murmur that had been ongoing from those working ‘behind the scenes’. Silence prevails, confusion blooming on more than one face at the hint of possible growth in the woman. 

Lisa ‘I won’t say sorry because I’m not’ Braeden pretty much just admitted she was in the wrong for the second time today. 

Wow.

“Are you trying to say something in particular to Benny?” Missouri asks, angling for the actual words to come straight from her mouth.

Lisa obliges, turning to the man, “I apologize for all I did to you, including waiting until the day of to tell you how I felt. It was wrong and I’m sorry. I’m happy for you and Garth and I wish you both the best.”

Benny gives a stiff nod, “I appreciate the apology and your acknowledgment of what you did, thank you.”

Lisa waits but he doesn’t add to the statement. If the woman had any sort of poker face Castiel probably wouldn’t have noticed the moment it slips. As it is, the act drops seconds after Benny’s more than acceptable response to her apology. What she was expecting is lost on him and Missouri doesn’t bother to ask as the conversation moves forward, Lisa visibly sulking across from them. 

“Unfortunately, our time together has come to a close my friends,” Missouri says with a sad smile. “If our inaugural season went this well, all things considered, the next has a lot to live up to. You’ll always be my favorites, don’t let anyone tell you different.” She jokes, light giggles multiplying as they all join in. “We all wish you the best and continued success in your relationships.”

Once the cameras cut off for the last time, the fun begins.

Castiel ignores the fact several couples, including he and Dean, basically just got cut for time focusing instead on the fact they survived the experience in the first place. They started out this experiment with intentions of fleeing as soon as humanly possible from the show, until that very first meeting in the pods. That initial spark sprouted into love that blossomed and grew into an everlasting, profound bond. Sure, they annoy each other with wet towels and half empty coffee mugs like most spouses, but its worth it every night he gets to curl up in their bed with his husband wrapped close. Taking into account the family he and Gabriel gained over the last year, the right to be called Winchesters with all the familial smothering that comes with the moniker…every second of this experiment was in fact, worth it.

“Have I told you how lucky I am today,” Castiel asks, unable to keep the wave of adoration he’s feeling to himself.

Dean smiles, loving glint in his evergreens, “Not yet…” closing in to press warm lips against his in a chaste kiss. 

The background noise crescendos with Gabriel trying to get everyone to agree on where to go for dinner. Castiel tunes him out in favor of capturing Dean’s lips again, and again, and again.

Everyone else can wait.