Chapter Text
Sam kept mostly to himself and hardly even left his room until his heat was over. He saw Dean only from a distance and was careful not to be caught alone with him. One evening, when Dean spotted him and started coming in his direction, Sam turned tail and rushed to his bedroom, locking the door after himself.
He knew he was being childish, but he just couldn't handle a conversation with his brother right now. Sam was too hurt. And it was not Dean's fault that Sam felt the way he did. There had been way too many years separating them. Dean hadn't been living in a secluded place like Sam. His Alpha brother had been out there in the world, exposed to its dangers and delights. A world that was filled with omegas and betas, and probably other Alphas too who were romantically interested in him.
Sam could not blame Castiel for being attracted to his brother. In fact, he had a hard time understanding how someone could not be attracted to Dean.
He just felt so foolish that he had actually believed that Dean and he had a chance. Despite his recently acquired fear of Alphas, part of Sam had held on to the hopeful idea that maybe Dean and he would still be together someday.
It was hard being faced with reality when Sam was at his most vulnerable.
"Get over it," he kept telling himself as he nestled in his room with a book. Dean was not the same brother he had grown up with. Even if he was still caring and protective, Dean was also a warrior now. He was this badass Alpha who fought to protect not only Sam, but all omegas and their democracy as well. He had a life of his own, and just because he had wanted to save Sam, it didn't mean that Sam still meant the same for him.
It got easier dealing with his disappointment when his heat was over. Not only was he more in control of himself and more rational, three days granted him a good enough time to process it.
Still, as he ventured out of his room and into the lounge where other omegas hung out, Sam was glad he didn't run into his brother. He still felt that things would be awkward between them.
"There you are," Garth beckoned him closer as soon as he spotted him. "Haven't seen you in a while. I checked with Ellen but she said you were okay, just…adapting."
It was early morning, but Sam hadn't felt like having breakfast. He knew the kitchen would be still busy now and he wanted to wait until he was sure he'd be there alone. Sam approached the sofa where Garth was sitting by himself. A few feet away there were a handful of omegas, some of them reading, others talking.
"I was pretty much waiting out my heat. I feel like my head is much clearer now," Sam explained as he sat down beside his friend.
"Right. I know what you mean. Arriving at the bunker in the middle of heat, after dealing with the shit we've all been sort of dealing with since the attack on campus must've been a lot."
Sam nodded.
"Not only that, you know." Sam lowered his voice and looked around, making sure no one was paying them any heed. "I was also processing some stuff I found out about." Sam didn't think he could keep to himself what he had felt when he'd learned about Dean and Castiel. What with all the changes he had gone through and all the losses, the truth was that Sam was feeling extremely lonely, and he was glad to still have a friend he could trust.
Garth studied him intently.
"I can tell by your scent that you're not pleased. But that's as much as I got. What happened?" he asked.
Sam sighed. He didn't want to be unfair so he treaded carefully.
"Castiel."
Garth arched his eyebrows.
"The beta who hangs out with your brother? What about him? Oh. Oh."
Sam looked into his eyes and nodded.
"Yeah. I figured out they're dating. Did you know?"
Garth looked a little nervous.
"I didn't know for sure, but I'm not surprised," he admitted.
"Little heads up would've been nice," Sam grumbled.
"I'm sorry, man. I just don't know anything about your brother and I sure as hell wasn't going to start a conversation and ask this kind of thing. I saw them together, I noticed they looked like very good friends, but I didn't see them kiss or touch affectionately so there was no way to be certain. And I confess I didn't really give it any thought."
"No, I'm the one who's sorry," Sam shook his head and patted Garth's thigh lightly. "You're right. It's not something you would know unless you saw something evident."
"In which case I would've told you," Garth confirmed.
"Thank you."
They fell silent. Sam retreated his hand and linked his fingers. He let his hands fall between his legs and stared in the distance.
"How do you feel?" Garth asked softly, because he knew Sam well enough to know which way his answer would go.
Sam exhaled heavily. His shoulders were hunched.
"Disappointed? Foolish? Like, have I seriously kept hoping during all these years that Dean and I still stood a chance?"
Garth heard the cracking in Sam's voice. He could tell his friend was struggling not to let his emotion gain in strength. He put an arm around Sam's shoulders and didn't say anything for a moment, letting his touch soothe him.
"I know it sounds stupid, but some part of me just clung to the idea that Dean would wait, that he—" Sam's voice faltered. He wiped a single tear with his thumb and sucked on his lips. He didn't speak again as he tried to rein himself in.
"I don't think it's stupid," Garth comforted him. "Especially given the way we grew up among omegas, sheltered from the real world. We clung to our childhood memories and dreams because that was all we had left of who we were before school. Don't be too hard on yourself. Besides, your life is only just starting now."
"Starting?"
"Yeah. You're twenty-two, aren't you?" Garth chuckled.
"Yeah. But it's hard to think of life starting when the world is upside down. I can't even go out on the street without fearing being raped or captured as a servant."
"I know," Garth's expression turned grim. "But the Alphas in here are fighting to change that. And they are not alone. It might be a while, but I'm sure that it can be done. It was done once, even though we weren't around."
Sam thought about his father and how he had taken part in the first omega revolution. He missed John so much that his chest ached.
Maybe Garth was right, but Sam just couldn't bring himself to engage in a cheerful, optimistic mood right now.
"So what do people do around here?" Sam pointed at the omegas coming and going before them, deliberately changing the subject. "Just read and talk and wait for the Alphas to save the world?"
"Well, some of them arrived here in pretty bad shape. Very hurt, physically and emotionally. They're healing. We all take up some chores, either cleaning or helping with the cooking—"
"Omega chores, so…" Sam's voice was heavily coated with disappointment.
"Not necessarily. We help with whatever needs to be done. For obvious reasons, we are not taking guns and going out there to fight alongside them. Most of the omegas here would go into a panic attack just thinking about that. So clearly they don't expect us to do what the Alphas do. But there are others who do research or who try to help the Alphas locate more omegas in need of help."
"What do you do?" Sam wanted to know.
"A little bit of everything. I like to help with newcomers. The way omegas arrive here, it's heartbreaking. Well, you can imagine that."
"You were always good welcoming those who felt intimidated or lonely," Sam spoke fondly and Garth smiled at him.
"Thanks. You know, this place had a lot more omegas before, but many have moved one to one of Ellen's shelters, where they can try and have a chance at normal during all this. It's like campus, but heavily guarded and without the classes. She can tell you more about it."
Sam wasn't sure how he felt about leaving, even if he was still mourning his silly expectations about his brother.
"Oh, and there are those who are just waiting to be married off so they can leave."
"Excuse me?" Sam arched his eyebrows.
"Sure. It's a great way out, at least that's what many of us feel like."
"Being married off to some random Alpha?"
Garth shrugged.
"They make sure it's someone trustworthy. An Alpha who can provide safety in times of crisis, and not only that, but that can attend to other needs we're quickly realizing that we have," Garth hinted, "Doesn't sound half bad if you ask me."
Sam wrinkled his nose.
"I can't believe it," he sounded outraged. "Really? So being married to an Alpha and rolling over for them is actually a desired outcome for some of our mates?"
Garth chuckled.
"Don't act so prude. You don't know what it's like to keep having heats under the same roof as Alphas. We can either try to resist and go crazy with desire or give in and lose our virginity to one of the soldiers. Now that doesn't grant us stability considering the Alphas fighting here are constantly exposed to danger. The omegas don't want to marry a soldier only to end up alone and grieving when they die in battle. An Alpha who's not into direct conflict with those in charge is an ideal partner."
"Argh," Sam rolled his eyes. He was about to express a very different opinion when he silenced upon scenting the strong Alpha scent that wafted close to them.
"Hi."
They turned their heads at the same time and saw Benny standing behind the couch.
"Hi." Garth smiled. His cheeks colored and his scent became instantly sweeter.
"Hi," Sam greeted timidly.
He looked at the way the Alpha was gazing at his friend, the smile that Benny mirrored perhaps without even realizing.
"I'm going out this afternoon to try and find more omegas in need of help. We got some information about students kept in captivity by some of the Alphas who got away."
"Oh, okay. Thank you for doing this," Garth said. He couldn't stop staring at the Alpha. "Do you need help? I mean…" his cheeks were crimson now.
Sam refrained from rolling his eyes.
"Not that I can help fight anyone, but—"
"Actually," Benny couldn't take his eyes off of him. "I could use some help in case we do find them. Last time I found an omega when I was on my own they were in heat and not very willing to accept help. Right, Sam?" Benny smiled at him.
It was Sam's turn to blush. He swallowed thickly.
"I, um…right," he managed to say.
Benny chuckled.
"It's all right, kid. I understand it was both good timing and bad timing as well." The Alpha turned his attention to Garth again. "Do you want to come with me?"
Sam could almost hear Garth's heart beating fast. He definitely saw the way his eyes lit up and scented his joy.
"I mean, if you're okay with being close to an Alpha. I'm going alone, no betas. But since you're not in heat…"
Garth seemed to struggle with pushing words out of his mouth.
"Sure!" he blurted out, perhaps too enthusiastically. "I mean, yes, I'd love to," he toned down his response.
"Great." Benny stared at him. "Have you had breakfast?"
"Yes. Just let me get my jacket and I can go." Then, as an afterthought, Garth turned to Sam, remembering he was there. "I, um, Sam, is it okay if…"
"Go on," Sam helped him out. "I was about to head into the kitchen anyway."
Garth smiled widely with gratitude.
"Nice." He looked at Benny with adoration. "Just a minute." He got up swiftly.
"No hurry." Benny called after him, a warm smile on his face.
Sam watched as the Alpha stared in the direction Garth had just gone off to.
"He's so cute," Benny mumbled, then seemed a little surprised to remember Sam was there.
"He is. And smart, and a great friend, too." Sam looked meaningfully at the Alpha, smiled softly, and left toward the kitchen.
As he made his way there, Sam felt happy that Garth was feeling confident enough to flirt. Benny seemed like a nice guy an honorable Alpha, but Sam still would have felt intimidated going out with him alone. Garth was a lot braver than he it seemed.
I went to Dean's bed, Sam reminded himself. That's a lot more intimate than riding in a car together.
But Dean wasn't Benny. Sam had known Dean all his life, while Garth had only just met Benny.
He was still thinking about it when he walked into the kitchen and ran into Castiel having a late breakfast.
"Oh." Sam stopped in his tracks. His entire body tensed and he had to breathe slowly and steadily to get a grip on his scent. He looked around at the other people in there with him, a few betas and Alphas, mostly, but no sigh of Dean.
Sam wondered if he could just turn around and leave before—
"Sam. Good morning. Do you want to join me?" Castiel patted the seat beside him.
Damn, Sam cursed inwardly.
He didn't want to sit down and talk to Castiel. Even though he knew the beta was not to blame for having a relationship with his brother, Sam felt irrationally jealous and didn't want to get to know him.
It was too late to back away, though.
"Hi." Sam approached the table where Castiel was sitting.
He sat down and the beta pushed a dish with fruit in his direction.
"We got cereal and eggs, too."
"Thanks." Sam picked a banana and started peeling it. He was trying really hard to be 'cool' about it and not think any distressing thoughts. His eyes kept straying, avoiding Castiel's curious ones.
"I haven't seen you around much these past couple of days," the beta said.
"I was waiting for my heat to end. It's easier to navigate this place without the hormones."
"I can understand that. The bunker can be a bit oppressive for someone who was used to being outside. I'm sure the campus had a lot of green grass and sunny days, but we're glad we have this place as a temporary home while we sort things out."
"The Alphas are sorting things out. Do you fight with them, too?" Sam didn't mean to sound rude, but he felt that perhaps his question was a bit too out of line. The last thing he wanted was for his jealousy to be so evident, but it felt like he was going to fail.
Castiel studied him silently for a moment. He smiled.
"Most of the time I don't. But I'm sure you understand that there's more than just physical combat to make things right again. I tend to work behind the scenes, if you want to put it this way. I have important connections and I give your brother important information."
"I see." Information isn't the only thing you've been giving my brother, though, is it?
Argh, Sam chided himself. Just stop!
Castiel was giving him a knowing stare and Sam looked away, uncomfortable.
"You can help too, you know," Castiel said. "Yeah. Your brother said you have a Master's degree in law."
"I don't. I was a grad student, but I haven't gotten my title yet," Sam corrected him. He hated how cocky he sounded but the urge to react to Castiel with hostility was stronger than his sense of decorum.
"Oh, that doesn't make any difference. I mean, we're now at a critical moment where a lot of combat is happening, but we're still a society based on rules. What those extremists did was unconstitutional. They organized a coup. They'll have to be brought to justice and we're gonna need many experts to help prosecute them when the time is right."
"They're in charge now. They'll dictate the rules. They can change the laws…" Sam sounded despondent.
"It'll be harder for them to do that if we have public opinion on our side. You can help us come up with flyers, pamphlets, whatever works, to help keep citizens informed of what is going on. It'll be an important tool to resist them. Especially considering they're already taking over mainstream media."
Okay. That doesn't sound half bad, Sam had to admit. And a part of him truly liked the thought of being part of the movement to make things right again.
"I…I'll think about it," he said as he took another bite of his banana. "But it'd be good that people had a truthful source of information. I mean, it's not exactly my field of study, but I guess I could help."
"Great." Castiel beamed. "I'll tell Dean. I mean, not putting pressure on you or anything. I know you're still figuring this place out and dealing with what happened on campus."
"Right."
Castiel stared at him.
Sam didn't know what bothered him more. Castiel speaking his brother's name like he knew stuff about Dean that Sam, his own brother, didn't—which Castiel did considering they were lovers, something Sam and Dean had never been—or the fact that Castiel was trying to be so nice. And reasonable.
"Dean told me it wasn't easy for you before you came here."
Sam tensed. His chest felt tight and he shifted his weight on the chair.
"He did? What did he say?" The thought that Dean had shared something so personal and traumatizing that Sam had told him in confidence with his lover bothered Sam to a level he could hardly understand. His scent grew sour and it was all he could do not to get up and leave.
"Oh, nothing. He didn't tell me what happened, just that you had been brave."
Sam let out the breath he had been holding. He felt himself relax a notch and his scent become pleasant again. He was being too harsh on Castiel, wasn't he?
How immature of him.
"I was lucky, too."
"Everyone in here is a bit lucky if you ask me. We're alive and well and fighting for what's right."
Sam swallowed hard.
"You'll have to excuse me. I need to go now. Please, enjoy your breakfast." Castiel smiled politely before getting up and leaving the kitchen.
"Shit," Sam cursed under his breath. It was not fair that Castiel would turn out to be someone so nice and friendly. Sam wanted to hate him and he had a feeling it wouldn't be easy.
He looked at his half-eaten banana and finished it quickly.
He tried not to be excited at the idea of helping out doing something as important as educating people on what was happening, but failed. For the first time since everything fell apart, he felt like just maybe he had found a purpose again.
Sam was excited to be part of the fight.
He was quickly realizing that he was very tired of being sheltered and kept in the dark about what happened out there in society. Look how that had turned out for the omegas at school.
Sam wanted to be a part of the action, even if he wasn't ready to go out there right now.
But I will be, he promised himself. I'm not gonna stay here until I'm married off to some Alpha.
He groaned at the thought, got up, and went back to his room.
~ * ~
Dean had a feeling—a strong one—that his brother was avoiding him.
He understood it while he was still in heat. Sam was more vulnerable then and only just beginning to heal from what he'd been through.
But when the heat was over and still his brother kept running from him—casually leaving a place when Dean walked in or learning Dean's schedule never to be at the same place at the same time—the Alpha started to wonder what was happening.
After all, he had just proved to Sam that he wasn't a threat, hadn't he? Sam himself had admitted so after sleeping on his bed.
No, Dean didn't think that Sam was still afraid. He had reason to believe that his brother was more vexed, not fearful. Dean had been able to smell Sam when he'd found out about Castiel. Even though they'd been separated for years and for sure Sam knew that Dean had been living his life, the Alpha supposed it was still hard learning that Dean was with someone else.
Not anymore, the Alpha reminded himself
Dean tried not to feel good if that was the case. He didn't want Sam to have any sort of romantic feelings for him, not when Dean couldn't reciprocate them. Just because I can't, it doesn't mean I don't—Dean chided himself quickly and groaned at his own thoughts.
He wasn't an option for Sam and that much had already been established. Dean was constantly risking his life. If there was one person most likely to die in that bunker just for being who he was, it was Dean. And Dean still remembered their father's words very strongly warning him not to allow Sam to be with him only to suffer with his loss. He couldn't do that to him.
The thought depressed him, and Dean pushed it out of his mind. He had way more pressing matters to think about, especially after his conversation with Castiel and his last meeting with Ellen. He didn't know how much time he had before the opposition figured out that he was still alive, and Dean knew he had to make the most of this window of opportunity before he started being hunted by Dick and his Alpha followers.
He was on his way to Ellen's room when he saw his brother's back. The bunker could be a lot like a maze, with hundreds of rooms and dozens of corridors. From the looks of it, Sam had just learned they had a library. Dean bit back a little smile as he saw his brother walking with two thick books under his arm.
"Sammy."
The omega stopped in his tracks and turned around.
Dean could instantly see the tension in Sam's body, but he didn't smell any fear as he approached him.
"I can see that you found our library."
"Oh," Sam smiled awkwardly. "Yes. And there's internet, too. I can't believe you have a copy of these books, I mean, I've done so much research about them but never got my hands on an original!" he sounded impressed.
Dean looked at the book titles and wrinkled his nose. It was something about Law and Legislation, something he definitely hadn't read before, neither would he ever.
"I'm glad you're happy," he said.
Sam gave him a look that instantly made Dean regret using the word 'happy.' It was too soon for that, he supposed.
"Castiel said I could help. I don't want to be just an omega who washes dishes and cooks. I mean, not that I can't do that, I can. I'm grateful that I get to stay here, don't get me wrong—" Sam babbled.
"I won't," Dean bit back a smile.
"And Castiel said that I could help with research."
"He did, huh? I'm glad you talked with him." Dean studied him intently.
He saw the way Sam shifted uncomfortably with the topic of the conversation.
"I don't mean to get in your way, though. I have somewhere I need to be," Dean said.
"Sure…"
"But I'm glad I ran into you. I just wanted to make sure that you're okay since our last conversation about what happened to you got cut short."
"Oh. Um…" Sam seemed to fumble with the books for a moment. "It's okay," he finally shrugged.
"I'm sorry the instructor turned out to be an asshole." Dean touched Sam's arm.
The omega looked intently at him. There was something frail in his brother's eyes that spoke straight to the core of Dean's feelings for him.
"I don't think he had anything to do with the attack. The Alphas tried to beat him up, too. I guess he was just a guy who saw an opportunity when I ran into him and took it."
"He wasn't a good guy, though," Dean retorted. "A good man wouldn't have done what he did."
"If I had played nice…" Sam's throat moved with difficulty as he swallowed. "He was offering protection in exchange of servitude. It was more than many of the students on campus got," his voice sounded hoarse.
Dean's features were hard. He let his hand fall to his side and kept looking intently at Sam.
"What happened on campus was savage. That was wrong on every level. But do not try to defend what that man did to you. He was supposed to protect his students and not want anything in return. You shouldn't need to lie with him to have him on your side," Dean knew he sounded passionate because he felt strongly about it. "Do you think it's something any of the people here, or, let's say the ones you know. Do you think it's something that either Benny or I would do? Offer our protection to any omega in exchange for sexual favors?"
Sam shook his head and looked at the floor. He seemed timid.
"No," he said.
Dean nodded.
"Because we wouldn't. That's one of the problems of having people like Dick in charge. People like Gordon Walker who were apparently very respectful members of society will turn on omegas, prey on them. They'll feel entitled to doing as they please and pin it all on biology."
"I know. I heard the conversations in here. You call them predators, don't you?"
"Because that's what they are. As soon as they see an opportunity."
"And the Alphas in here…" Sam began.
"We're protectors. We'll fight to our last breath so omegas can go back to having the rights they already did before. The rights everyone should have. And by doing that we're not only protecting omegas, Sam. We're protecting families, we're protecting our society from descending into brutality."
"You know his name."
"What? Whose?"
"My instructor. Gordon Walker. How did you know?"
Dean thought about having a conversation about that man with his father many years ago. He still remembered how John's background check on him had come out clean. If only his father could see it now—not that he would be surprised, Dean ended up concluding. John, better than anyone, would have been aware that even the most friendly Alphas could revert to predators given the right circumstances.
"Dad ran a background check on him when you brought him up."
"He did?"
Dean nodded.
"He didn't have a criminal record and his behavior on campus was unblemished. We were worried at first but were forced to let it go. He seemed okay."
Sam stared at him.
"I had no idea."
"I'm sorry we didn't know, Sam. But it would've been impossible knowing what was in his heart," Dean said. "You don't have to worry about him anymore. We're working very hard to make sure people like that man have to face the consequences of showing their true faces as soon as we have someone fair back in a position of power. People like Gordon who tried to hurt omegas will face severe punishment to teach everyone a lesson."
Dean paused and his features hardened a bit. "Although Gordon Walker better hope that I never run into him in a dark alley somewhere. I may not be willing to wait for legal justice to take its course after what he did to you!"
The threat in his voice was clear, and Sam had no doubt that Dean would kill the man with his bare hands if he had the opportunity.
"Unfortunately, if Alphas can't be decent because they know it's the right thing to do, we'll need strict laws to make sure they don't hurt anyone. But that's not a conversation for now. I'm afraid a lot of blood will still be shed before we get to that point," Dean sighed heavily.
"I…I don't mean to keep you any longer."
"I'll go. Just remember you can talk to me if you need to, okay?" Dean smiled and squeezed Sam's shoulder quickly. "Or Castiel. He's a really resourceful guy, so if I'm not around he or Benny can get you anything you need. I just think it'll be easier to talk to Castiel. He's good with omegas."
"Yeah, I noticed," Sam said casually. "He seems good with Alphas, too," Sam muttered under his breath.
"Pardon me?"
"Um? He's good with everyone, I guess. Bye, Dean." The omega turned around quickly and walked away from him.
Dean watched him go. He could still scent traces of Sam's jealousy. It made him think of the young boy who'd thrown away a girl's phone number when they went to school together.
The Alpha didn't want to smile. He didn't want to feel good at the flashback memory either.
But he did.
~ * ~
Sam spent most of the afternoon leafing through the books. He didn't even see time go by and for the first time since he'd been forced to abandon campus, he could, even if for a few moments, forget where he was. Studying hard was what Sam had been doing for many years of his life, something he could relate to, something that gave him a peaceful sense of familiarity.
When he left his bedroom to go get a snack, his mood had improved. The books were able to get his mind off the things he'd been exposed to in Gordon's house and the feelings he'd dug up for his brother.
Maybe if he went through all the books in the large library he'd just discovered in the bunker, Sam would be fine, he thought with a hint of sarcasm.
He was washing his dishes after eating when Garth joined him in the kitchen.
"Hi! There you are! I was looking for you!"
Sam could scent Garth's excitement when he got closer.
"Really? Why were you looking for me?" Sam had a feeling that he was about to sit through a detailed conversation that involved Benny and he was not looking forward to it.
"Can we sit first? I'm starving!" Garth opened the fridge and started to go through its contents.
"I've already eaten but I'll sit with you."
They chose a table far from the other group of people there in order to have more privacy. Garth fixed himself two double-decker sandwiches, making Sam marvel at how come he was so skinny eating the way he did. Deep down he felt glad that Garth's appetite was exactly as it was when they were at school. Sam hadn't gotten there yet. He'd lost weight and was having trouble enjoying his food as he once did.
"So, tell me about your day," he pushed these thoughts to the corner of his mind and focused on Garth's beaming demeanor.
"Oh, my God, Sam! Benny's such a gentleman! He's so smart and funny, and so hot!" Garth practically giggled like a schoolgirl.
Sam almost looked to his side as if he would see Jessica there, ready to tease him and laugh along with him.
Her absence tugged at his chest and made Sam repress a grim sensation that threatened to spread inside of him. He didn't want to rain on Garth's parade. He could think about Jessica and mourn her later on, he thought.
"Okay, but did something happen?" He asked, wanting to be a good friend and show interest.
"We flirted and he took my hand and—"
"Did you find any omegas in need of rescue?"
"Unfortunately, no. But we had some bonding time."
"I'm sure you did."
"Sam?"
"Yeah?"
Garth looked around and lowered his voice before addressing him from across the table.
"I'll let him knot me on my next heat."
"You'll what?!"
Garth glared at him and Sam apologized quickly for having raised his voice.
"Sorry. That caught me off guard. You'll what?" he whispered.
Garth bit on his bottom lip; his eyes glowed with excitement.
"You heard me, Winchester. If he'll take me, then I want to mate with him."
"If he'll take you?" Sam scoffed. "He's all over you."
Garth beamed.
"Garth, have you thought this through? Like, I can see how happy you are, and I'm happy you're happy. But as your friend I feel like I must ask this. Have you considered the implications of mating with him?" Sam asked. "I mean BESIDES the obvious fun part," he added quickly as he saw a smirk start to spread over his friend’s face. "ALL the implications."
Garth's expression turned somber and he nodded.
"I have Sam. You know, ever since I was abused and nearly raped in the attack on campus, it's been making me wonder what's the point of holding on to my virginity, especially in the current environment. I'd much rather lose it with someone I'm attracted to, someone who I know will be good to me and who I can trust, than have it taken from me by force," Garth said.
"Well, that goes without saying," Sam agreed vehemently. "But what I meant is, if you do mate then it'll be harder to…"
"Find an Alpha husband?" Garth helped him with a knowing smile.
"Yeah. That sounds awful, doesn't it? Medieval if you ask me," Sam chuckled darkly.
"I didn't tell you this, but I called my mom after the attack. She's doing well and living with part of her extended family. But she's getting old, Sam. She can't protect me. I certainly can't protect her. If I go live with her, me being an unclaimed omega, I'll bring danger to her."
Creases showed on Sam's forehead as he understood how true and painfully sad Garth's words were.
"The way I see it, I can either use my virginity as a prize to offer some Alpha, or I can start making my own decisions and dealing with the consequences of my choices. We aren't going back to school any time soon," Garth argued. "Life as we knew it is over, at least for the next months, maybe years. I can be with an Alpha I like, even if that means risking my life to be by his side, and even if it means he'll be risking his. Or I can once again choose to be comfortable and sheltered, as long as my butthole is all 'shiny and new'."
"Garth—"
"Sorry. That sounded crude, but it's how I've been feeling."
Sam sighed deeply. He looked at his friend as he ate his first sandwich voraciously.
"You're not wrong. Sorry I questioned you," Sam finally caved.
Garth finished chewing. "It's fine. It's what we've been taught all our lives. To keep being pure so a good Alpha will want us, right? Well, I have a career. Maybe I can't work freely right now, but I have faith in the work the people are doing here. And they're not alone. There are other groups in other parts of the country. One day we'll be able to pursue our career dreams and choose who we want as lovers. I'm starting now." Garth crooked his head to the side. "Not now now, you know. My heat won't happen until a few more days."
Sam chuckled.
"If that's what you want, then I support you one hundred percent."
Garth smiled widely again.
"Thank you. I know it's my life and my choice, but it feels good knowing my best friend is supportive."
Their hands touched on the table and squeezed. Sam smiled as well. He knew that Garth was probably thinking about Jessica and how they only had each other now. The thought made them both feel a tad emotional.
"I hope you'll tell me all about it when it happens," Sam broke the contact and leaned back against the chair.
"Of course. All the dirty details."
"I expect nothing less."
They laughed softly.
"What about you? Have you considered mating or…?" Garth probed.
Sam cleared his throat.
"I think it's still too soon after what happened with Gordon," Sam admitted. "Besides, I don't have someone like you have Benny." Sam hated that he was about to start feeling sad all over again.
"That could change very quickly. There are many great Alphas here. When you're ready to date, you can look around. I've heard some of them talking about how handsome you are."
"You have?" Sam felt his cheeks heat up.
Garth nodded.
"It's all very hush hush. I think they're afraid that Dean will catch word of it and not like it one bit, but you could probably have anyone you want."
Sam felt a tingly sensation in the pit of his stomach at the thought that Dean could possibly feel jealous of him.
Yeah, right. Sam pushed the wishful thought to the back of his mind along with the fact that the only one he really wanted WAS Dean, and kept looking at his friend.
"I don't think Dean would mind it. He's got his mind somewhere else," Sam thought about Castiel. "And other parts of him." He could not help the hint of resentment that crept into his voice.
"Things change."
"Please. Do not give me hope," Sam begged.
"Just saying. Today a couple of omega girls who, for reasons I'm sure you'll understand, can't stop looking at your brother, were gossiping that Castiel has apparently slept in a room in the east wing of the bunker the last several nights. As you know, your brother's bedroom is in the west."
"That means nothing. Maybe one of them needed to work or something."
Garth stared at him. He finally shrugged and smiled.
"Yeah, you're probably right. I guess we can't jump to conclusions."
Tell that to my foolish imagination, Sam thought but didn't dare say it out loud.
~ * ~
About a week later, Sam went to the library carrying one of the large books he'd picked up before. Even though nothing had been discussed with him about taking the idea of an independent media more seriously, Sam was very invested in studying and doing research. It kept his mind busy and his feelings in check.
He needed to find another book he'd heard about during his grad course, and he hoped he would be able to find it in the surprisingly large array inside the bunker. Sam had been told that the internet was not very safe at the moment, and access to it had been restricted for fear of someone hacking into their computers and tracing the bunker down. Therefore, books were much safer since Sam didn't want to get them in trouble.
As soon as he walked into the library, he heard the voices and picked up the scents of people in the room. Normally, the library was empty. Sam had been there way too many times in the past days to know he and an omega girl were pretty much the only ones who went there.
Except now Sam instantly recognized Dean's scent.
And Castiel's.
"Oh." Sam looked over his shoulder and then turned around to look at them. Ellen was there too. The three of them were having some sort of meeting judging by the way they looked serious and focused. "Sorry. I just came here to put this book back and find another one. I can come back later," he apologized.
Dean's eyes met his. The Alpha was sitting at the table at a good distance from Sam, but even though there was enough room separating them, Sam felt how Dean's powerful gaze nearly knocked all air out of his lungs.
"It's okay. It's not a confidential meeting or we wouldn't be here," the Alpha spoke. "You can stay."
"I'll be brief," Sam nodded thankfully and went back to checking the bookcase before him.
Dean's eyes lingered on his back for a moment longer. What with the hectic days he had been having, Dean hadn't had much time to look at his brother or interact with him. He couldn't help the way he felt so very pleased when Sam was close.
"Dean?" Ellen's voice made him snap out of his reverie.
"Yeah?"
"Did you hear what Castiel just said?"
The Alpha turned his attention to his former lover.
"Sorry. Can you repeat it?"
Castiel gave him a knowing look, one that told Dean he knew exactly why he had gotten distracted without judging him for it.
"I said that I can arrange a meeting with him in two days. He's answered my calls and he's interested," Castiel said.
Dean pondered. He looked at Sam's back as he went through the books then looked at Ellen and Castiel sitting at the table with him.
"I would think he's interested. I mean, there's a lot at stake, and anyone would be glad to be in his position."
"He isn't glad," Castiel stated firmly. "He's righteous, and the idea of power does not please him half as much as the idea of justice does."
"I'll believe it when I see it," Dean said.
"That's why you must go," Ellen stated.
"Are we sure we can spare resources for that?" Dean questioned. "I feel like I'm very needed here."
"Dean, we need a long-term plan," Castiel argued. "You know that. Without a name and a face we're just rebels and we won't get people to listen. We need to get organized and choose who we'll support."
Ellen was looking expectantly at him
"Fine," Dean caved. He knew Castiel was right. "We'll go."
"Great. I'll book you guys a room under the latest ID's and—"
"Two rooms," Castiel interrupted her.
"Sorry?"
"Book us two rooms, Ellen. Please." Castiel stared intently at her.
Ellen looked puzzled as she stared from one to the other.
"Two separate rooms?"
"Yes, please," Dean confirmed. "We're not together anymore."
The three of them turned their heads at the same time when the loud thud of books falling was heard a few feet away.
"Sorry!" Sam apologized profusely.
Dean watched as his brother squatted to pick up the books. He could see how pink his cheeks were, even from a distance. He could smell his embarrassment, too. And that was not all he could smell.
"Sorry…" Sam kept babbling as his hands fumbled with the books.
The three people at the table watched him silently.
"I'm leaving." Sam finally managed to pick up the books. He looked spooked when his eyes met Dean's. And glad.
The Alpha stared at his brother. He bit back a pleased smile and watched him go.
When Dean's eyes met Castiel's, the beta was once again giving him a very knowing look.
"There's no way you can convince me there's nothing there," Castiel spoke gently but firmly.
Dean stared at him.
"What?" Ellen looked puzzled.
"Nothing," Dean shifted the focus back to their meeting. "Let's start making travel arrangements then. It looks like we're paying Michael a visit."
~ * ~
Dean and Castiel flew to Los Angeles, the city where most of Castiel's family still lived. They checked into the hotel under fake ID's, and Dean made sure to keep his hat and sunglasses on at all times to prolong his advantage as someone presumed dead.
They arrived in the early afternoon and had time until evening when they would meet Michael in his place. Alpha and beta went to their separate rooms to freshen up and rest and met again later to go rent a car and drive to the meeting.
"What's on your mind?" Castiel asked from the passenger seat. He could feel the Alpha staring at him every now and then as he drove.
"You didn't need to have asked for two separate rooms, you know," Dean said casually.
"Yes, I did," Castiel stated. "We're on a break, remember?"
They looked at each other briefly before Dean focused again on the street.
"Not saying we aren't. We can be on a break and still have fun like we used to." Dean smirked. His hand rested on Castiel's thigh and he squeezed lightly.
Castiel had to brace himself against that powerful Alpha charm (and pheromones that could affect even a beta) and stay strong in his resolution. He took Dean's hand away gently but surely and put it back on the steering wheel.
"I don't think so. In fact, I don't think we're getting back together," he said. His voice held no anger, but there was a touch of sadness and regret to it. He took a deep breath and tried to shake it off. "So if you need to get your dick wet, find someone else," he teased trying to lighten the moment.
Dean groaned and rolled his eyes.
"Boring," the Alpha grumbled.
"Dean, we both know what's happening here."
"We do?"
"And it's bound to get worse. You've got all this pent-up sexual energy, but it's not me you want," Castiel said softly.
The Alpha looked at him briefly. His features hardened a little.
"I've spoken to Ellen. If I were you, I'd start looking for possible Alpha mates for your brother. He'll go into heat very soon in the bunker what with all the Alpha pheromones in the place. Especially since our guys get all combative and aggressive, they also get more sexual. This affects omegas."
"I know that," Dean said curtly. "Sam's not just any omega. Which means not any Alpha will do. I got to be sure he'll be well taken care of. Besides, he needs to want it, too. I haven't talked to him about it yet."
"Then you should. I can tell he likes you."
"Of course he does. I'm his big brother and—"
"You know what I mean. Do not play dumb, Dean. He likes you. If I can scent it, then so can you. I know there are more pressing subjects, but don't let it slip your mind. The longer he's around, the more he'll pine for you. And you will respond to that. We both know you want him, too. It'll be dangerous for you to be thinking about mating when you should focus on fighting a revolution."
"I know how to keep my head in the game, all right?" Dean sounded perhaps a bit too harsh. "I can chase after some omegas in heat if I need. It shouldn't be difficult to get a lay," his sounded more annoyed than smug.
"I know. I'm just telling you what I see before this escalates."
"Well, thank you for your advice. We're here by the way." Dean parked the car.
Castiel came from a large family. His dad, one of the wealthiest people still alive, had retired from the political scene after years of philanthropic work and a lot of influence. Though he was now too sick and senile to have any real power anymore, Castiel's father had been very much pro omega rights, and those among his sons who were closest to him tended to share the same set of beliefs.
The problem was they were many siblings, and some of them were almost complete strangers to one another. Castiel's dad had had many wives and fathered many kids. Some of these kids never knew their siblings until they were older, and thus never developed a bond with them. Michael was Castiel's older half-brother, and though they hadn't grown up together, Castiel had always heard good things about him.
"Of all of us, he was closest to Dad, that's for sure," Castiel said as they knocked on the door and waited.
"I wonder why he hasn't done anything before? It would've been nice to have someone of his influence on our side when the scales were tipping."
"I told you that Michael keeps to himself. He tends not to get involved unless—"
"Unless shit hits the fan," Dean finished for him.
"Hi." The door opened and a handsome man in his early forties opened the door. "Castiel," he greeted politely. "And you must be Dean Winchester." He reached out his hand.
"Not if you look at my ID," Dean joked.
Michael frowned.
"We're both undercover. Dick's men still think Dean was killed in the explosion."
"Oh, sure. You told me that. Come in."
Michael opened the door further and let them into his house.
"My wife has cooked dinner. I hope you're hungry. She'll be with us as we dine, then we'll go to my office for privacy," he explained.
"I'm hungry, that works for me."
Dean pretended not to see the look Castiel gave him.
Michael lived in a fancy house, fully decorated with fine art. As someone who had been born into wealth, Michael had a good taste for beauty while still keeping his taste practical and not over the top.
His wife was a very nice, educated beta woman in her late thirties.
As they feasted, they mostly spoke about the previous government and what a shame it was that the situation had gotten so chaotic.
When they were done, Michael took them to his private office on the second floor. The room was filled with Magno bookcases and there was a side table with many bottles on top of it.
"Drink?" he offered.
"No, thanks," Castiel declined.
"Yes, please." Dean looked at Castiel briefly before accepting the drink.
They all sat down on comfortable armchairs and faced each other for their conversation.
"All right, Michael. From Alpha to Alpha," Dean started. "You know we've been fighting Dick and his extremists for a long time now. Problem is, for the first time ever, we're on the wrong side of the law. They're in charge of the police force and though we got many of the military flocking our way, the institution itself will still have to respond to him. He's the face of power now while we are just a bunch of nameless Alphas trying to take him down."
"I understand you need someone who can help you get organized," Michael said.
"We are organized," Dean retorted, not without some hostility.
"Dean?" Castiel warned him.
"What? There's a lot at stake here. If we make a deal, then you are the face our people will fight for. You're the man we'll be telling citizens to trust. You'll be the leader my men will die for in battle. I might die for you as well. I need to know if it's worth it."
"Castiel, it's okay." Michael looked at his half-brother. "Dean is not wrong. It's a lot that I'm asking you. Just know that I didn't plan on asking anything. Being president has never been in my plans, to be fair."
"Then what changed?" Dean asked.
"Society did. You know it; I know it. Things are not looking good for omegas. They are about to lose their few rights that they have gained and again be treated as servants or worse. That's not what my dad would have wanted to see happening, and it's not something I want either. Castiel can tell you, from what he remembers of dad, that he used to preach about equality. I sometimes think it's a merciful thing that he's got dementia and doesn't know what has become of our country. He would have been heartbroken seeing what Dick and his people are trying to do to our omegas. Seeing what his own children have been supporting. I mean, attacking schools?"
Dean felt his chest clench.
"Yeah, that was despicable even for him. And you weren't there. You have no idea how bad it got. It was like a bunch of wolves had gotten released into a herd of sheep," he said.
"I can imagine," Michael sounded grave. "Well, my dad always taught us to be respectful of omegas. He dreamed of a world where omegas wouldn't be afraid of a single Alpha."
"Unfortunately, that's not a popular opinion among members of your family. Many of them support Dick Roman. Castiel is an outcast because he went against them," Dean said.
"I know. I'm not proud of what my family has become. But you must understand that a family feud does not change my principles. I'm sure Castiel knows that or he wouldn't bring you here."
"If we support you and help you become president," Dean began. He stirred his drink with circular movements of his hand, watching the amber liquid inside swirl close to the edge of the glass. "How do you suggest cleaning up this mess?"
"First off, severe punishment is needed for those who planned this coup. I believe that if our previous government had acted before, being more firm with those who disguised hate speech as free speech, we might have been able to avoid the situation we are now in. Forgive me, as I know you worked for our previous president—"
"I did and I agree with you," Dean interrupted him. "Just because I worked for the man it doesn't mean I agreed with everything he did. I think he was too lenient as the events kept leading up to his death."
"I also have no lost love for Azazel and his men. The fact that he's been helping Dick Roman and being offered a pardon for his crimes and a position in the government is outrageous. That man should be locked up in a maximum security facility, but instead he's now part of the group of people who will tell everyone, including omegas, how to live their lives."
"Dad!! Dad!!"
They all turned to look when the door burst open and a couple of kids, not older than five years old, burst into the office.
"Castiel! Hi!" The two kids went straight to the beta man and hugged him.
"Hey!" Castiel tried to hug them at the same time and failed. He started to laugh.
"I'm sorry," Michael stood up and apologized. "Guys, what are you doing here? Where's your older brother?"
"We ran from him!" The little girl looked at her dad then at Dean. She giggled.
It was impossible not to smile, so Dean did it. The little boy beside her had the same golden hair and baby blue eyes, and Dean could instantly tell they were twins. And omegas.
"Oh! There you are!" An Alpha boy in his early teens showed up at the door looking breathless. "Dad, I'm so sorry! We were playing hide and seek, I had no idea they'd come this way. They knew better than to interrupt you, didn't you?" The boy looked playfully annoyed at the little kids, who jumped in his arms and started squealing happily.
"I'm so sorry about this," Michael looked at Castiel and Dean with a sincere apology.
"No problem," Dean bit back a smile.
He watched as the older brother took each kid in one of his arms. He saw the way the kids clearly adored their brother and threw their little arms around his neck.
"We're leaving now. Sorry, Dad."
"Don't worry." Michael patted his son's shoulder affectionately, kissed the twins and then closed the door after them.
"Where were we?" Michael asked as he sat back down.
Dean was very good at being rational, but he was even better at following a strong gut feeling. And he had one now.
"Is he always like that with the kids?"
"Jack? Yeah. He's very protective of his younger siblings. And they love him, even though they aren't very obedient."
Castiel and Dean exchanged a meaningful look.
"So you got two omega kids," Dean said.
"That's right." Michael looked as though he was struggling not to show emotion. "I want them to have a safe, happy future. I'll do anything it takes for this to happen, including giving up my comfortable life here and becoming president, knowing fully well things will change and we'll become a target. It's worth it if we can prevent Dick from reverting society to what it was three decades ago."
"I see. Can I have another drink?" Dean asked.
"Yeah, of course."
"Castiel, you should drink, too. It's rude not to drink when the president himself is offering. Technically, future president."
Michael and Castiel looked at each other.
"Dean?" Castiel's deep blue eyes sparkled. "Are you serious?"
"Michael has my support. And that of my team and all the other teams I have influence over," Dean stated.
The three of them looked intently at each other.
"Now grab a glass, Cas, and let's drink to that."
---------------------------------------------
tbc...