Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Castiel’s POV:

“You want me to…what?” Castiel recognized the teen in front of him from his former English class — Dean Winchester, the school's notorious quarterback. While many perceived Dean as "all beauty and no brains," Castiel found this assessment a bit harsh. Dean wasn't failing; he simply didn't excel academically like Castiel, who boasted straight A's. Dean was satisfied with his B’s and occasional C’s. Despite their differing paths, both were set for their future endeavors. It was a well-known secret that Dean, like Castiel, had secured a full-ride college scholarship to the same university, Dean for athletics and Castiel for academics.

Though Castiel wasn’t sure why that university in particular, when Dean was practically thrown at least seven colleges with better college teams, and Dean accepting this scholarship showed he was willing to move out of state. Maybe it was the cozy mountain vibes and beautiful scenery, with a small stream running through the campus and a quaint little coffee shop. It looked gorgeous in every season, which was the reason Castiel chose it; he wanted to live his cozy small town cottagecore dreams where no one knows his name. To finally live his dreams of being a librarian, find love, and live his best cozy life.

The grumpy teen had admitted to being lacking in the romance department, especially since he came out two months ago, but it wasn’t like he had that many offers to begin with. He was a homebody; he went to school and went home. The only activity besides that was him coming to sit in the library for a couple of hours after school to listen to headphones and study till it closed. 

Not only was he slightly awkward and shy…he had the biggest resting bitch face. Which he was genetically given by his father, they always looked very annoyed and pissed off. Which is why he was giving Dean the most disgusted, irritated, and nasty look at the most innocent request.

“If you don’t mind.” Dean smiled tenderly with a shrug. “It’s just some challenges for spirit week.” 

Dean Winchester was asking him for help with the seniors’ last spirit week, where little challenges and riddles were done every day to find the token (whatever it may be). The person with the five tokens at the end of the week would win a big prize. He had heard people mention that, but he, like most people, had no idea what it was. He had no interest in those activities, so he was just going to study for finals.

“...Why me?” Castiel asked.

He was sure Dean had plenty of people volunteering. 

It was a fair question.

“I’m not very book smart,” The Jock stated, sliding his hands into his jersey. “I can help if there is like a tree to climb, but I wouldn’t know how to start with a riddle.”

“...And you thought of me?” He questioned slowly, and Dean nodded with a smile. 

Was this a joke? 

Was he trying to get a senior prank done instead?

No.

That wasn’t Dean.

The Jock may have been popular, but this wasn’t a movie. 

He was a very nice guy; even if you wanted to hate him, he made it pretty hard to. 

Dean could have been captain three times over, but instead would refuse every time, nominating people like his friend Benny, who excelled the previous year. 

Never once taking it despite the offers since he thought other people deserved it more than him. 

“Smartest person I know.” The football player chuckled. “Do you mind helping me? I promise to share the prize with you if you’d let me.” 

“...What if I don’t want to share the prize with you?” The grumpy teen breathed, trying to understand his thinking. 

“That’s fine.” The Jock tilted his head, smiling with a tender laugh. He reached up, scratching the back of his head, exposing his abs slightly. “I just kinda want the experience. You can have the prize if you truly want it.”

“...” He squinted at Dean, lightly tapping his pen. 

He was serious, wasn’t he?

Castiel held his hand out for the flyer for the spirit week, which Dean gave him. He snatched it, reading it over. 

It would be a couple of hours after school. 

One riddle a day. 

One token per day till Friday. 

The grumpy teen could totally do this in his sleep. 

“...Please?” The Jock whispered, shyly, looking down. 

“Don’t you have friends you want to do this with?” Castiel asked. 

“I do.” Dean smiled. “You.” The grumpy teen frowned at that, eyeing him before Dean gave the biggest puppy eyes. 

He assumed that worked a lot because, believe it or not, it worked now.

“Fine,” Castiel stated, caving to his bright green eyes. “You get the riddles on the announcements and write them down. We will meet here at four pm after school on Monday. If you don’t get the riddles every day, I won’t do it, and we are done. Got it?”

“You got it!” The Jock saluted. “I’ll see you on Monday!” The grumpy teen shushed him, but Dean was already heading out. Castiel glanced around, embarrassed, hiding his face at the noise. 

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

Monday:

The grumpy teen quietly packed up his stuff at the end of class, watching students rush out around him, eager to start their afternoon. He took his time, meticulously organizing his notes and placing them carefully into his backpack. As the last bell echoed through the empty hallway, he hoisted his bag over his shoulder and made his way to the library like normal. However, when he found Dean already there, leaning against a bookshelf, a small slip of paper in his hand, did he remember his promise.

"Got it," The Jock said, holding out the paper.

Holy shit.

Dean was serious about this.

He had completely forgotten about promising Dean to help him with this.

Castiel took it, reading the handwritten words:

"I have a thousand stories, but no voice.

I have all the knowledge, but possess no brain.

I have endless pages, but no beginning or end.

What am I?"

The grumpy teen paused, glancing around, blinking, realizing the first clue was the easiest.

"That's an easy one," he murmured, before looking directly at Dean. "It's here.”

"Knew you'd get it!” The Jock grinned. “…So, where do we go from here?"

"Given the context of a library and the nature of the riddle, the 'token' is likely hidden within a specific book," Castiel explained, already heading towards the non-fiction section. "The question now is, which one?"

"Any ideas?" Dean followed. 

"Perhaps a classic," The grumpy teen mused, his gaze sweeping over the spines. "Something commonly found in most libraries, a work known for its stories and knowledge." He paused, a new thought striking him. "But given that this is a school library, and it's spirit week, there might be a correlation.” He moved to the yearbook section as Dean tilted his head following him. 

“Yearbooks?” The Jock stated as Castiel kneeled to get to the more recent ones. 

“It’s our last spirit week, and this is for seniors, right?” He asked, Dean kneeling next to him.  

“Yeah.” Dean nodded. The grumpy teen checked the most recent one, finding nothing before he paused for a second before reaching for their freshman year yearbook. 

“They might be being sentimental,” Castiel stated. Dean watched Castiel flip through the pages until he found a rose metal bookmark. It was tucked into the senior class headshot photos during their freshman year. It was beautiful. The grumpy teen and Dean exchanged looks as Castiel held it up. A small ribbon was placed on the bookmark with a small paper sign that said token one.

“Holy shit.” The Jock chuckled. “You’re good.”

“There you go, Dean Winchester. Your first token.” The grumpy teen hummed, holding it out to him. He expected Dean to take it, but instead his hand overshot it to poke to the picture on the page. 

“Look how cute you were.” Dean hummed, making Castiel’s eyes move to the photo. 

Of course, it would be randomly shoved onto this page.

The grumpy teen grimaced at his picture from freshman year, a whirlwind of braces, pimples, and a truly unfortunate haircut courtesy of his mother's ill-fated attempt to save money. He wouldn't blame anyone for bullying his past self; he'd do it himself. The past, however, was the last thing he wanted to revisit.

“We have different definitions of cute.” Castiel winced. 

“You were so cute.” The Jock defended poking it. “Come on, don’t you just want to squish past you’s cheeks? I wish I were that cute in my freshman year. I was in my awkward stage hard.” 

“Come off of it.” The grumpy teen scoffed, putting the bookmark down to search for Dean. When he got to Dean, he paused, seeing a charming boy smiling at him. He had a baby face, sure, Dean was correct. He seemed a bit awkward; it was obvious he was a bit self-conscious, but the boy before him was beautiful. “...” He slowly turned to Dean. “...You? Not cute?”

“Yeah.” Dean winced. “See, I wasn’t lying.” 

“You don’t even have a pimple,” Castiel argued.

“Yeah, I did, right there.” The Jock pointed to a couple, and Castiel guessed he could make out the small dots. 

“One or two.” He scoffed. “I was a giant pimple.” The grumpy teen turned back to his page. 

“Do you remember when we first met?” Dean asked curiously. 

“No.” Castiel shook his head. 

“It was freshman year,” The Jock recalled. “The day these were taken. I couldn’t find where they were taking the photos.”

“Wait, I do remember.” The grumpy teen paused before he eyed him. “You were totally going the wrong way. I walked you to the auditorium.” 

“It was only my second day, and I just moved here.” He explained. “I was totally turned around. You were the first person to actually help me.”

“I must have just been the first one you ran into.” Castiel reasoned.

“No. You were the fifth person I asked. Most just waved me off in some direction or just blew me off.” Dean shrugged.

“I was surprised you approached me. I’m not considered approachable. With my…you know.” Castiel admitted, looking at his photo. He looked so angry and pissed off all the time. It wasn’t like strangers normally went out of their way to speak to him or approach him. Someone once told him to smile more in hopes that it would soften his face, yet all it did was make people cross the street to avoid him. So he stopped trying and just accepted his fate.

“Your hair wasn’t that bad.” Dean waved him off, making Castiel turn to him. “It definitely looked like your mom did it, though.”

“My face, Dean.” The grumpy teen corrected him. “I was talking about my face.”

“What’s wrong with your face?” The Jock asked so seriously that Castiel blinked, confused.

“I look mean.” Castiel waved around his face. “I got a resting bitch face. You can’t tell me you didn’t notice. It gives people the impression I’m a giant asshole.”

“You don’t look mean to me.” Dean chuckled. 

“What?” He scoffed. 

Now that he didn’t believe.

“I wasn’t kidding when I said you were cute.” The Jock got up, making Castiel’s heart skip a beat.

He said it so casually.

Like it wasn’t odd.

Him?

He thought HE was cute?

“Same time tomorrow?” Dean called when Castiel closed the book, pausing when he realized the metal rose bookmark was still on the floor next to his knee.

“W-Wait, your rose!” The grumpy teen called loudly, earning shushing, making him clamp his hand over his mouth.

“Keep it.” The Jock saluted. “A rose should go to a beauty anyway.” Castiel watched him go, softly looking down at the rose bookmark he held in his hand. 

He must have been teasing…

…Right?

Chapter Text

Tuesday:

The grumpy teen stood at the entrance of the library, glancing around. He couldn’t believe he was waiting for Dean. It was after four, but there was no sign of the notorious quarterback. Castiel sighed, checking his phone again, as if the device would magically make Dean appear. 

He was stupid, wasn’t he? 

Dean wasn’t coming back.

He was sure Dean had given up on this, most likely already hanging out with his friends. 

Yet, here was Castiel actually cutting into his study time because a hot footballer called him cute.

This was a joke. 

He was the joke.

Castiel was so stupid.

The grumpy teen sighed, almost disappointed by the fact that what this was… was over. 

He guessed this was fun while it lasted.

The grumpy teen turned, grabbing the door handle to go study, when a familiar voice stopped him.

"Hey, Cas!" The Jock jogged up, a wide smile on his face, a crumpled piece of paper in his hand, waving it. "Sorry, I'm late! Coach kept us an extra fifteen." He held out the paper, slightly out of breath. "Got the riddle though!" He came to a stop beside Castiel. “Sorry, I hope you didn’t get worried I wasn’t coming. I would have called you, but I didn’t have your cell phone number. I asked for it before, but you once said there’s no reason to exchange numbers if you don’t have a good reason—.” 

He hated how relieved he was. 

If he weren’t so stubborn, he would have said he was…happy. 

Ugh.

Don’t do that to yourself. 

This was only a five-day thing!

“—So yeah or nah?” The Jock finished. 

“What?” Castiel mumbled, realizing he zoned Dean out. “Yeah, that’s fine.” 

"Cool," Dean said, extending his phone. The grumpy teen paused, looking confused as he hesitantly took the device. "You said we could exchange numbers," The Jock clarified.

“Oh.” Castiel paused before he typed his phone number into Dean’s phone. The Jock beamed so stoked when he got his phone back and sent Castiel a text with his number, which Castiel felt his phone vibrate. 

“Sent you a text.” Dean beamed. “Now we got each other’s numbers.” The grumpy teen was so confused by his happiness that he was so giddy, almost bouncing. “Yessss.”

“L-Let’s focus, we don’t want these tokens taken, right?” Castiel stated shyly, holding his hand out for the note.

“Right.” The Jock blinked, realizing they should get on it. The grumpy teen took it, examining the note. 

He read the riddle aloud:

"I have no mouth, but I can roar.

I have no legs, but I am deep.

I have no roads, but I have many lanes.

What am I?"

“...What am I…” Castiel mumbled, thinking. “...This riddle makes no sense.” 

“What can roar without a mouth?” Dean spoke. 

“That’s the part that doesn’t make sense.” The grumpy teen scoffed. “This implies a river. We don’t have a river at school or in this bloody town. What kind of idiot Googled these—?!”

“—We might not have a river.” The Jock started. “But…we do have a swimming pool.” 

“...That’s on the other side of campus.” The grumpy teen winced.

“We are going to have to run to get to it first.” Dean started. Castiel and Dean exchanged looks before moving to run towards the pool.

“Pools don’t roar!” The grumpy teen groaned.

“Some of us aren’t geniuses and just go off Google.” The Jock laughed. “Come on, Cas, someone worked really hard on this for you not to be impressed.” 

“They should have worked harder.” Castiel scoffed. “Now I have to run!” Dean laughed loudly at his complaint. Bolting into the pool area of the gym, they glanced around to see that no one was there. Looks like they were the first to understand that stupidly bad riddle. 

The grumpy teen took a second to catch his breath, panting as he looked around.  

“What are you thinking?” The Jock asked. Slowly walking deeper into the pool area, Castiel moved to follow him, eyeing it. Castiel and Dean dropped their stuff beside the door, and Castiel shoved his phone into his bag, just in case, moving to look around. Dean turned and looked under some benches, as Castiel's eyes slid down to the bottom of the pool. “Where do you think it could be?”

“There.” The grumpy teen pointed to the middle of the pool. The Jock moved towards him to see where he was. Seeing the small, off-colored speck at the bottom of the pool, Castiel sighed, not really interested in diving in after it. He turned to look for the pool net when he heard shuffling behind him. His eyes fell onto Dean, who was stripping down. He started to blush, taking in Dean’s shirtless physique. His eyes slid over his toned body a little too long, especially when Dean yanked off his jeans. “Wh-What are you doing?”

The Jock paused slightly, blinking at him.

“I’m diving in for it,” Dean explained.

Yeah, he figured that.

“Naked?” Castiel choked, respectfully turning away.

“Just in my boxers.” The Jock chuckled.

Dean was being so cool about stripping in front of a gay man.

Though he doubted Dean was homophobic, even the nicest person got a bit uncomfortable with someone who could be attractive to him. The grumpy teen’s eyes moved back to him. This was hard because who wasn’t attracted to him? Dean was handsome; he could admit that. His eyes have lingered on Dean a few more times than he cares to admit. He and everyone else, he assumed. 

“Hold my phone?” The Jock asked, holding it out to Castiel, who took it before Dean dove in. His eyes moved to the phone, which lit up as his thumb touched it. A picture showed Dean, a young boy, and his dog, posing next to an old car. The grumpy teen eyed it. It was a cute photo; Dean and his brother looked so much alike. He was expecting maybe a romantic couple photo of Dean and a partner, since he assumed Dean was dating someone, he had to be…right?

Wait, why did he care?

The Jock pulled himself to the edge, holding out the token to Castiel, who took it. 

“You got it,” Castiel spoke, kneeling next to him to open it. Dean hummed, running his fingers through his hair, shaking the water from it. He popped the small plastic ball open before he paused, seeing a small keychain inside. Castiel eyed it affectionately, taking in the small rose keychain. 

Looks like the theme was roses. 

He liked trinkets like this. 

His keys were filled with them. 

The Jock wiped some water from his face as he held the edge of the pool, still lightly kicking. 

“You like it?” Dean asked. 

“It’s kinda cute.” He mumbled to himself before holding it out to Dean. 

“You keep it.” The Jock hummed. “It suits you.”

“But…” Castiel hesitated. Dean was having him keep the tokens, but after Dean got practically naked to swim for it, it didn’t feel right. “You literally got wet for this. Are you sure you don’t want it?”

“Didn’t you say you didn’t want to share?” The Jock teased. 

He did say that, but he wasn’t serious. 

“I want you to have it.” He tilted his head with a tender smile. 

“Then you keep the next one.” The grumpy teen hesitated.

“Wouldn’t it be better to keep them together?” He hummed. 

He wasn’t wrong.

“Hold onto the tokens, and when we get the prize at the end, you can either keep them along with the prize or give them back to me. How does that sound?” Dean stated. 

Castiel glanced at the token. He knew if they won, he'd pick the cheapest thing, leaving the good stuff for Dean. It just felt right, since Dean was the one who got them into it in the first place. 

“Okay.” The grumpy teen hesitated. The Jock eyed him, searching his face tenderly, smiling at him.

“Want to go for a swim?” Dean asked. He playfully teased, pushing back from the wall. 

“I don’t have a swimsuit,” Castiel mumbled as Dean raised an eyebrow, treading water.

“Neither do I.” He retorted.

“What if someone sees?” The grumpy teen countered.

He wasn’t entertaining this, was he?

“Come on, it’s the last chance.” The Jock hummed. “You’re going off to college, don’t you want to live a little? We can play mermaids.” Castiel eyed him with a small smile forming on his face at how cute Dean was being, making Dean chuckle. “Is that a smile?”

“No.” The grumpy teen forced the smile away, blushing. He turned to leave. “Bye, Dean, see you tomorrow!”

“Wait!” Dean called frantically. “What about my phone?”

“Oh.” He returned to Dean, offering his phone to him.

…He should have figured Dean would grab his wrist, pulling him in.

Castiel fell into the water, forcing himself to swim up to the surface, wiping the water from his face as he caught his breath. The Jock was laughing his ass off, clutching his phone, which he quickly sat up slightly over the edge to slide away from the water.

“Bastard.” The grumpy teen coughed, sputtering water. “You’re lucky I’m paranoid and put my phone into my backpack.” Dean reached over, pulling him to him as Castiel composed himself. 

“I noted that the second we got in.” The Jock hummed, holding his waist with one hand. 

“When I get out of here, I’m tossing your phone in,” Castiel grumbled.

"Can't say I blame you," Dean said, smiling. "It's water-resistant, not waterproof, so I hope I'm fast enough." Castiel eyed him, taking in the brightness in his eyes as he talked.

“...Why are you…always so happy all the time?” The grumpy teen asked seriously. “Do you ever get sad?”

“I get sad.” The Jock retorted. 

“That’s hard to believe,” He grumbled when Dean sighed.

“I actually got my heart broken recently,” Dean explained, like that would dispel Castiel’s suspicions that he was always happy. “I finally got the courage to ask someone I really, really liked out and… they blew me off.”

“Ouch.” The grumpy teen winced, making Dean chuckle, shyly looking away. “That sounded cold.”

“Well, I have the strange suspicion they didn’t realize what I was trying to do.” He sighed affectionately. “So I’m going to have to make a bigger statement, I think.”

“Kinda pointless to do so now, though, right?” Castiel asked. “Seeing as you are leaving for Harvelle University? Long distance never works out.” 

“Keeping tabs on me, Novak?” The Jock eyed him, amused.

“N-No.” The grumpy teen turned away, blushing. “I-It’s common knowledge.”

He just heard about it.

Not that he was trying to keep tabs on Dean of all people.

Why would he?

“Is it?” Dean leaned into him and tilted his head to catch his eye. “Seems a bit of pointless knowledge for you to retain if you didn’t care.” Dean swam a bit closer till they were chest to chest…or maybe Castiel imagined it. Maybe he was trying to hold the ledge better, especially since he was helping keep Castiel up. 

“It is.” Castiel retorted with a scoff. “It’s completely pointless information.” 

It should have been.

Why would he care about Dean Winchester?

He was right, though; he heard it in passing, something about it catching his notice enough to dwell on that for longer than a second. Enough for him to remember that, even now.

“Or maybe…” The Jock leaned in. The grumpy teen shyly leaned away, blushing harder than he thought possible. He thought, just for a mere crazy second, that Dean was going to kiss him, but when he felt Dean’s hot breath against his ear, he came to his senses. “... It meant more to you than you realized.” Dean breathed, pulling back.

“W-What are you implying?” Castiel choked. Dean smiled and shrugged. 

“I’m not implying anything,” Dean stated. “Food for thought.”

“The world doesn’t revolve around you, Dean Winchester.” The grumpy teen teased.

“I don’t need the world to revolve around me.” The Jock sighed, leaning back to float. “...I just want one world and I'm happy to ride their orbit.”

“Maybe they don’t want you in their orbit.” Castiel retorted. It was just a joke, but Dean held his breath for a second, taking that in. 

He didn’t mean for Dean to take it seriously.

The look on his face showed the slight disappointment and maybe…acceptance he had already resolved to.

“...Guess then they’ll get their wish when the school year is over next Friday, huh?” The Jock breathed, sadly. 

“...Yeah.” The grumpy teen looked down at his fingers tenderly. 

He was right, though.

Dean would sail off to university, and whoever Dean liked would go on their own path as well. 

An anti-climactic end to their story.

“I should go home.” Castiel shook his head, grabbing for the ladder. “Since someone got me wet.”

“Not the first time those words were whispered about me.” The Jock retorted. That earned a scoff from Castiel, which earned Dean’s belly laugh. “Need a ride home?”

“I got a car.” The grumpy teen countered, climbing out.

“Ah.” Dean breathed, sounding disappointed. 

“Getting out?” Castiel asked, bending down to pick something off the floor. 

“Nah, man. I’m playing mermaids with or without you.” Dean booed him. 

“You know what my favorite part of playing mermaids was?” The grumpy teen asked, making Dean glance at him. A mischievous smirk slid over Castiel’s face as he held up Dean’s phone. Much to Dean’s horror. “Pirate Treasure." He held his phone up. "Let’s hope you're fast enough!”   

“Cas!” The Jock sat up with a yelp.

“Fetch!” Castiel tossed it into the water, making Dean dive after it. “Later, Winchester!” He laughed and walked away, heading home. Halfway to the car, he got a text from Dean, much to his amusement.

Dean: Guess who was fast enough! Gulb, Gulb. 🐟✨

Castiel: Booooo. No fun.

Chapter Text

Wednesday:

To say Dean would blow up his phone was an understatement; he never imagined how much his phone would be vibrating in his pocket all day. Dean asked about the weather like he didn’t live in the same place. He sent him memes and talked about random stuff. Dean liked to talk, which complemented the fact that Castiel liked to listen. He sat listening to the morning announcements today. Normally, he tuned them out, but he figured he would get a head start on the riddle today. He rested his chin on his hand, half listening quietly to the student announcements, but when a riddle didn’t get mentioned, he paused. 

Slightly confused, he sat up. Perhaps he hadn't been listening properly, their words going in one ear and out the other. He turned to a group of girls chatting behind him. 

"Hey, did you catch the riddle today?" Castiel asked, earning him confused looks from the girls.

“What riddle?” One girl chewed on her gum.

“For spirit week?” The grumpy teen asked, making the girls look more confused.

“...We honestly don’t bother with school stuff. It’s not our thing.” The second girl explained. “Sorry.”

“It’s okay. I may have missed it.” Castiel stated, turning away.

“Why does he look so angry all the time? It’s so scary. ” The first girl mumbled, earning a shush from the second girl, making Castiel recoil.

"Pipe down, he'll hear you," she whispered playfully, but Castiel was already locked onto the teacher again, his face tightening at her words. A wave of relief washed over him when the first bell finally chimed. He snatched his books and quickly blended into the noisy stream of students flooding the hallway. As he pushed through the crowd, his eyes snagged on Dean and a cheerleader named Anna. They were practically glued together, and Castiel assumed that one of them must like the other or they just happened to be very, very close. Then his attention snapped back to Dean, who was a mess, practically tearing apart his locker, a waterfall of papers and books threatening to erupt.

“Shit. I can’t find it.” The Jock choked.

“I told you not to use something that small.” Anna chuckled, crossing her arms. “I knew you would lose it. You should have given it to me like I said to.”

“No, no. I swear it was just here. It was—!” He breathed in relief, finding it, cradling whatever the small trinket was to his chest. The grumpy teen could tell whatever it was meant something to him, but before he could see Dean open it, Dean must have felt eyes on him. He turned, catching Castiel’s eyes, and he tensed slightly. “Hey, Cas.”

“Hey.” Castiel paused, taking them both in. Anna eyed them both with a knowing smirk, but Castiel turned his focus to Dean.

“What’s up?” The Jock spoke, keeping the thing in his hands close to his chest.

“I-I…um…was just passing.” He started hesitantly. “I-I was hoping I could get started on the next riddle.” He held out his hand to him. Dean tensed noticeably. Anna giggled, amused, making Castiel flinch inwardly. It felt like he wasn’t in on a joke.

“I-I don’t have it. I-I…um…left it in my bag.” Dean stated as Castiel’s eyes fell to his backpack. The Jock’s eyes followed him. “…My other bag.” He smiled nervously. “I’ve got to go. I’ll give it to you after school! Bye!”

“Wait—!” The grumpy teen tried, but Dean had quickly slammed his locker closed and left with Anna, leaving Castiel confused. He frowned, watching Dean go before he slowly turned to head to class.

___________________________________________________________________________________________

The grumpy teen sat outside the library waiting for Dean. He leaned against the wall, listening to the sound of faded voices of other high schoolers leaving school for the day. Something wasn’t sitting right about this, and he didn’t know why. He felt as though something was going on, but…he didn’t know what. What could be up?

No.

He was being paranoid.

It’s okay to trust people, Castiel. 

“Cas!” The Jock waved happily, running up to him. He was panting, out of breath, when he came to a stop, holding his knees. Castiel stood up straight, seeing him, and sucked in air. “I ran as fast as I could. You didn’t wait long, did you?”

“No.” The grumpy teen shook his head. “Besides, I got your thirteen apology texts.”

“Ah.” Dean laughed. “I was worried you didn’t get it since you didn’t respond back.”

“I’m not much of a texter,” Castiel admitted.

“M-Me either!” The Jock spoke, making Castiel raise an eyebrow in disbelief. “Never… once texting… ever.”

“Yeah, sure. Do you have the riddle, Dean?” The grumpy teen asked with a chuckle, making Dean stand up straight.

“Here you go.” The Jock lit up, holding it out to Castiel.

The grumpy teen eyed the note, loudly reading it aloud:

"I have sidelines and end zones, but no finish line.

I have hash marks and numbers, but nothing to count.

I see great battles, but no one is killed.

What am I?"

“End zones.” Castiel scoffed like it was obvious, slapping the paper onto Dean’s chest before walking towards the back of the school. “Easy. The football field.”

“Is it that obvious?” Dean stated, shyly walking over to him. “I thought that one was really complicated.”

“Why? Because I’m not a sports guy?” The grumpy teen scoffed.

“Because it's supposed to get harder. “ He mumbled. 

“Please. These are so simple.” Castiel laughed. “You didn’t read end zones and get it?”

“I thought the great battles part was cool, and you would focus on that.” Dean chuckled. “I guess I should have figured stuff like this was easy for you.” 

“I’m a 4.0 GPA student.” The grumpy teen hummed. “These are nothing.”

“Fair, I suppose.” The Jock shrugged, shuffling slightly with his backpack. “Ever been to one of my games?”

“Not really,” Castiel stated. “Not a sports guy, remember?”

“Yeah…I figured, I never really saw you at them.” He breathed.

“It’s not like you were really looking for me.” The grumpy teen turned as he walked backwards. 

“...Right.” Dean nodded softly, though Castiel didn’t expect an answer to his statement. “...Because that would be weird if I had…” The grumpy teen shook his head, amused. “But…um…you should come to one, you know, before you graduate. We have one last game coming up.” 

“...Why would I?” Castiel gave him a look. 

“Because it’s the last one.” The Jock shyly explained. “You should enjoy it with your friends.”

“What friends?” He countered. “Besides, no one cares if I’m there or not.”

"I care," Dean blurted out, instantly regretting it. He blushed as he turned away. "I mean, only if you want to come."

“...Won’t you be playing?” The grumpy teen rationalized, not understanding. “We won’t really get to enjoy it together.”

“Right.” The Jock sucked in air, nodding. Castiel gave him a confused look, only turning when they got out onto the field. 

“I doubt it's on the actual field,” The grumpy teen stated. “I’ll check the bleachers, and you check the benches on the field?” 

"Sure," he nodded as Castiel ascended the bleachers, checking under the seats as he went. Dean followed at the same pace, glancing under the benches despite having less to inspect. "You missed Mermaids with me."

"Still on that?" The grumpy teen laughed, walking down the rows. "I played for a second. Your phone enjoyed it."

"Har har," The Jock scoffed, inhaling before continuing. "Do you remember when you broke your arm? Was it freshman or sophomore year?"

"It was a small hairline fracture at the end of my freshman year," Castiel hummed, recalling. "Surprised you remember that; I barely did. I was only in a cast for a month or two. I tripped over my dog, Angel, in the middle of the night and slammed straight into my bedroom door—not fun."

“You had to sit on the sidelines during the free swim months near the end of the year,” Dean stated. 

“It was the only time I could actually enjoy swimming, and I missed it.” He recalled sadly. “...But you missed a majority of it, too, right? You had a bad concussion.”

“...Yeah,” The Jock nodded softly. 

“I believe you kept me sane.” The grumpy teen hummed, holding himself. “You talked about everything and nothing at the same time. Really, never told you how I appreciated it.”

“You never had to, I knew you did,” Dean spoke, giving him a glance and a tender smile. “...Can I admit something to you?”

“No judgment zone?” Castiel chuckled. 

“You can judge me, it’s fine.” The Jock beamed, barely looking anymore. 

“Sure.” He started eyeing the other bleachers.  “Lay it on me.” 

“I…didn’t have a concussion.” He shyly blushed. 

“Wait, what?” The grumpy teen turned. “You lied?”

“I noticed you were by yourself,” Dean stated. “So to have Coach sit me out during swim class, I had to agree to at least be vice captain for the rest of high school till I graduated.” 

“I thought you didn’t want to be captain.” Castiel breathed. 

“I didn’t.” He shrugged. “I can think of a handful of people who deserved the title. None of them is me.” 

“Then why did you?” He asked. 

“Because I wanted to hang out with you.” The Jock slid his hands into his pockets and lightly shrugged again.

“Why?” The grumpy teen questioned, puzzled.

“Well…because I…um…” Dean cleared his throat, unable to look at him. 

“Dean! I found it!” He gasped, walking down from the bleachers, making Dean stop. He walked down beside Dean, bolting over to the endzone goal posts. Sitting against it was an adorably cute stuffed animal teddy bear with soft tan fur, holding a rose. Castiel couldn’t stop himself from smiling down tenderly at the lonely little bear.

“Roses again. I can’t seem to figure out why, though. Really odd.” Castiel continued, before he sniffed the teddy smelling roses as well. “Look, it even smells like roses.” The grumpy teen held it out to him. Dean leaned in and sniffed it. “It’s cute, isn’t it?”

“Very cute,” The Jock admitted.

“Sorry, I got distracted,” Castiel asked, still looking fondly at the bear. “What were you saying?” Dean eyed him, saying nothing for a moment before he sucked in air. 

“Nothing.” The Jock breathed, shaking his head affectionately. “What were you saying about the roses?”

“I was just curious about why they picked roses.” He asked, sniffing the bear again.

“Don’t like roses?” Dean asked.

“Who doesn’t like roses?” The grumpy teen scoffed, almost offended by the idea. 

“Maybe because prom is coming up?” The Jock offered. Castiel shrugged, taking the answer. 

“Seems such a waste to go to me, though.” He sighed affectionately before holding it out to Dean. “Why don’t you give it to your girlfriend?” Dean raised an eyebrow.

“What girlfriend?” The Jock chuckled. 

Castiel paused.

“You don’t have a girlfriend?” The grumpy teen asked, tilting his head. “Or a girl you like?”

“Nope.” Dean shook his head, amused.

“Then who are you taking to prom?” He asked. “I’m sure you’re going.”

“I want to, but currently I’m going with no one. Hope to change that shortly, though.” Dean admitted shyly.

“W-...What about like…Anna?” He asked. 

“What about her?” The Jock looked confused.

“I always see you together. I assumed you’d go with her.” Castiel stated.

Either as a couple or best friends.

Though he had honestly never seen them be romantic towards each other, they seemed pretty close.

“Really?” He hummed in thought, really contemplating when. “...Well, I guess we would be around each other a lot,” Dean admitted. “We live on the same property, two houses on the same lot. She also can’t drive since she failed her test four times, so I take her places a lot. Maybe that’s why.” 

“Same…property?” The grumpy teen asked.

“She’s my cousin.” The Jock laughed.

“Cousin?” Castiel choked, embarrassed.

That explains it.

“She’s my mom’s sister’s kid.” Dean chuckled. 

“Oh my god.” The grumpy teen blushed, covering his mouth. “I-I thought…”

“No! No!” The Jock waved him off with a nervous laugh. “I’m single!” They both laughed, realizing how silly this was. 

“Good.” Castiel shook his head in relief. 

“Good?” Dean tilted his head, making Castiel blush. 

Good?

Why did he just say that?

“I-I…” The grumpy teen choked, his heart pounding. He couldn’t process this right now, or begin to unravel that. “H-Here, why don’t you give it to someone you care about?” He held out the bear to him. 

“I thought we agreed you would keep everything?” The Jock raised an eyebrow before he slowly took it. 

“It’s such a romantic gift,” He admitted. “Anyone would be lucky to get it.” 

“I can give this to anyone I want? You sure?” Dean asked. “No take-backs if I do. Where I chose, it will stay, got it?”

“Of course.” Castiel nodded, still affectionately looking at the bear. “It deserves a good home, with soft smiles and love.” 

It deserves softness in return for the softness it gave.

He can’t give that to them.

Not someone with such an angry face.

“Then, here.” The Jock offered it back, making Castiel’s eyes widen in surprise. “I want you to have it.” The grumpy teen cradled it to his chest, almost automatically after being handed it. He held his breath, his eyes searching Dean’s.

“M-...Me?” Castiel choked so softly, he almost thought he didn’t get the word out, holding it tenderly. 

“Yeah, you like it, right?” Dean smiled tenderly. “I noticed you like cute soft things.” The grumpy teen sucked in a breath at that. 

He did.

Though he didn’t advertise it. 

If you were paying attention, you would notice a cute teddy bear pen or a sticker of a fluffy kitten that's half falling off his water bottle due to water damage. It was a part of him he kept safe, something he felt like he was almost undeserving to love because he seemed so prickly himself. 

Dean noticed?

He…noticed?

“...Thank you, Dean,” Castiel whispered as Dean gave him a tender smile, watching Castiel squeeze it in a hug. 

“Dean!” A voice called, snapping the boys from their conversation. The Jock turned to see the Coach waving him over from the entrance of the football field, making Castiel hide the bear behind his back. “You’re still here? Can I have a moment of your time?” Dean sighed, conflicted, and he cursed under his breath.

“I-I should go anyway,” The grumpy teen spoke, giving Dean a soft wave. “I’ll see you tomorrow, okay?”

“I-...” The Jock hesitated, but Castiel had already started to walk away. He eyed him before jogging to talk to the Coach.

Chapter Text

Thursday:

He sat, listening again for the announcements, his focus solely on the loud, overly enthusiastic teenager, who was eager to tell them it was Sloppy Joe Thursday. So far, he had taken note of a few things. 

1. It was Sloppy Joe Thursday. 
   
   
2. Dean’s last football game is tomorrow against the Devils. If they won that game, they won it all.
   
   
3. Senior Prom is coming up next Friday. 
   
   
4. If anyone is caught doing senior pranks, they will not walk. Even if you just heard whispers about it, you are considered involved and will not walk.
   
   
5. Also, Principal Shirley was very, very aware of which group spray-painted a giant phallus (dick) on his car, and their parents will be notified. Though he did not mention them not walking, despite his previous comments. 

But what he didn’t take note of…were any riddles. 

The person signed off and…nothing.

He didn’t miss it this time.

He was sure of it.

Did they just forget today?

The grumpy teen moved to his backpack, taking out the folded flyer of the Spirit Week Riddle Challenge Dean had given him last Friday.

Enjoy a week of non-stop fun!

Follow the clues on the morning announcements to the tokens. 

Five Tokens for Five Days.

The one with the most tokens by Friday at 5:00 pm in the plaza will win a grand prize!

Groups can not exceed 2 people.

He wasn’t wrong. It’s what it said. 

He eyed the paper a bit more before turning to a guy sitting next to him. 

“Hey, excuse me,” Castiel spoke, making the teen turn. “You know anything about this?” The grumpy teen showed him the flyer.

“No. But I know someone who would.” He shrugged and turned around to a kid a couple of rows back. “Hey, Ash, you know anything about this? It’s right up your alley.” He quickly passed it back to him.

“Aw, shit. I love riddles.” Ash cursed. “Man, why didn’t you tell me, Garth? It’s Thursday, it’s practically over. There is no way we could win now.”

“Just found out about it,” Garth stated when someone snatched it from Ash.

“Spirit week? Didn’t we do this like months ago?” Bela asked, turning to her friend Eve. 

“Yeah, spirit week is normally like in the summer before spring break,” Eve spoke. “It must be old.”

“There’s no date, so it possibly is,” Bela confirmed, handing it back to Ash, who started to pass it back up. 

“I don’t remember a riddle challenge,” Ash stated. “I was all about dressing up and did all the silly costumes. I was even Castiel one day.” He snickered before adding. “You know, the Grinch?” The grumpy teen said nothing, snatching his paper as the kids started to laugh. “Come on, Castiel, it’s kinda funny. Not even a chuckle?”

“Class, the announcements are over.” The teacher called to them. “Time to focus.” Castiel ignored the snickering as it quieted down and focused on the flyer in his hand.

How come…no one knew about this?

__________________________________________________________________________________________

The grumpy teen approached the lunch table, flyer in hand, seeking out the only person he could think of to turn to. His gaze settled on the teen, who was perched on the table, knee bent, trying to sell weed to his classmates. Gabriel Montoya. He was the guy in everyone’s inner circle—a floater, really. If something was going on, he knew about it. What Gabriel loved more than money was good tea.

"Gabriel!" Castiel called. Gabriel tilted his head, blowing out from his blunt.

"Cassie!" Gabriel chuckled, amused, holding it out to Castiel. "I knew it was a matter of time. Come on and take a puff. I owe you for letting me cheat off you. I'm only graduating thanks to you, so the first gram's on me."

"I'm not here for weed," The grumpy teen spoke, his eyes moving to the kids Gabriel was selling to. Gabriel's eyes moved to them before he ushered them to leave.

"Go hover, I'll call you over when I'm done. I'm on a five." Gabriel waved them off; they obeyed, getting up and returning to their friends. "What's up?"

“Do you know anything about this?” Castiel handed over the flyer, and Gabriel took in a puff, reading it over. 

“Ah…This was what Dean’s been up to lately,” Gabriel stated. “I recognize the circles and their colors.”

“What do you mean by ‘what Dean was up to lately’?” The grumpy teen said. “Isn’t this a school event?” Gabriel blinked, confused at that.

“Not that I’m aware. I went to deliver to his friend Benny, and saw Dean, his girlfriend, and some of the football players crowded around a laptop, working on something. It had these circles on it. I could be wrong, and this was a coincidence.” 

Dean…made this?

“His girlfriend?” Castiel mumbled.

“The redhead he’s always with, he refuses to let me sell to her, told me if I did, he’d break my knee caps…and I happen to like my knee caps,” Gabriel grumbled. “I think he’s the jealous type.” 

“That’s his cousin.” The grumpy teen breathed out of it.

“His cousin?!” Gabriel choked. “Not his girlfriend?”

“Not his girlfriend.” He rubbed his face, still absorbing what he had said.

“Really…?” Gabriel mumbled. “Huh…I guess my sources were wrong.”

“You…you said the football team was there?” Castiel mumbled. 

“Yeah, not all of them, maybe a good chunk. They had ordered pizza and were talking about some prank they were doing.” He shrugged.

“P…Prank?” The grumpy teen swallowed, a lump forming in his throat. 

“Yeah, they said it was going to be so fucking funny, and that they were untouchable since they were the coach’s golden boys,” Gabriel stated. 

“...” Castiel sucked in air at those words. “...Was what Dean working on part of the prank?” 

“I don’t know. I assume so.” Gabriel shrugged. “I can ask my sources. They are never wrong.” 

“...Could you?” The grumpy teen glanced up. 

“Sure.” He hummed. “And I won’t even charge you.” Garbirel chuckled. “I’ll let you know during the last period.” He blew out smoke, handing the flyer back to Castiel. “...Why? Is he messing with you?”

“I…I don’t know.” The grumpy teen admitted his gaze hardened as he looked at the flyer. 

Dean…wouldn’t have…right?

He…didn’t think Dean would make him a joke. 

“Maybe they were trying to see how angry Grumpy from Snow White can get.” Gabriel chuckled, offering the blunt to Castiel again, who frowned, glaring at him. “Tough crowd.”

“Why me?” The grumpy teen choked, his voice broke. “I-I keep my head down and I-I stay away. I-I didn’t ask Dean to…”

Mean something to me?

He flinched at his own thought. 

“...Because…people like you are easy targets,” Gabriel admitted. “Lonely homebodies with easy physical things and sexuality to make fun of.” Castiel clenched his jaw at that. “...No offense.” 

“...None taken.” The grumpy teen glanced away, and he turned, leaving. He wasn’t sure what to think. He was used to this. Being the butt of someone’s joke…but he…for some reason never imagined that…that he would be Dean’s joke. He heard familiar laughter, making him turn over his shoulder. Dean was just getting back from McDonald's. Anna was texting as she walked with him, talking his ear off, which he looked like he was tuning out. He stopped when he noticed Castiel, then lit up. The Jock waved happily. 

“Hey, Cas!” Dean spoke, making Anna glance up. 

Castiel, for a second, forgot all the doubts he had.

He felt himself lightening, seeing that golden retriever running over. That was till Anna’s snickering shattered the relief he felt, his eyes falling on her as she affectionately shook her head at her cousin. 

He felt that pit again.

Something was telling him something was wrong.

“I texted you, but you didn’t answer,” The Jock spoke. “I wanted to see if you wanted something from McDonald's.”

“Um…” The grumpy teen paused, pulling out his phone to see he had missed a couple of calls and a long string of texts, most likely in his daze. “Sorry, I-I had it on mute.” 

“It’s okay.” Dean chuckled. “More than okay.” He pulled out a bag from his own. “I got you chicken nuggets and some fries. I just figured I would guess instead of coming back empty-handed. You can never go wrong with chicken nuggets and fries. So I went with a safe option.” 

“...What if I was vegan?” Castiel retorted, sort of out of it.

“...I stand corrected,” The Jock stated slowly as though he was contemplating shoving his foot into his mouth. “...you’re not though, right?” He laughed nervously. “I-If you are, that’s cool. I-I can go get you something else.” 

“I-I’m not.” The grumpy teen glanced down at the meal. 

“Thank goodness. I panicked for a second.” Dean laughed when an arm wrapped around his shoulder.

“Dean! Bro! I heard you got interrogated by Coach yesterday!” Benny snorted. “Didn’t squeal, did you?” 

“Of course not,” The Jock stated when Benny realized he was there. 

“Oh, shit. My bad.” Benny laughed. “Aw, you even got him Micky Ds. How cute.” Dean elbowed him, giving him a death glare. 

"Interrogated about what?" Castiel inquired. Benny wiggled his eyebrows, about to speak, but Dean's disapproving glare and shake of the head silenced him, eliciting a sigh from Benny.

“...I can’t tell you, but you’ll find out soon enough.” He hummed. “Just wait till Friday.” 

Friday?

On the last day of the riddle challenge?

Was that why he couldn’t know?

“Dean, I actually came for the next riddle, if you don’t mind. I want to get started on thinking about it.” The grumpy teen breathed, insistent on it. 

“Uh…” The Jock patted himself down, trying to feel which pocket it was in. “Didn’t want to come eat with us? I mean, you solve these pretty fast.” 

“No.” Castiel gave Benny and Anna a slight glance. “Besides, you said yourself they are getting harder.” 

“For me, not Mr. 4.0.” Dean laughed, handing it over. 

“Thanks.” The grumpy teen turned and walked away with the note and his food.

“Dude, he’s so weird,” Benny whispered as he left, earning a harsh slap to the back of his head from both Dean and Anna. “Ouch!”

______________________________________________________________________________________

“I have four walls but no roof. 

I hold minds but no thoughts. 

I can be filled with noise or silence, and my purpose is to enlighten. 

What am I?”

Castiel mumbled it over and over to himself while sitting in the bathroom, just thinking. Staring at Dean’s note, once again, the riddle made zero sense. The answer was a school. Yes, a school. That’s literally anywhere and everywhere here. He stared down at the note in thought. He had excused himself to the bathroom to have a moment to take in everything.

He couldn’t focus on school. 

He felt sick.

Maybe he should go home.

He started to push open the bathroom door to head back to class when he heard a familiar voice calling out

“Dean!” Anna’s voice made him stop. He kept the door cracked when his eyes fell to Dean, who must have been waiting for her in the hall. “I finished it!”

“Thank you so much.” The Jock breathed in relief, taking the box from her. 

“I worked all night for this plan of yours, so you'd better appreciate it.” She laughed, handing it over, and Dean smiled at her. The grumpy teen couldn’t see from where he was what it was, but he watched Dean shove it into his backpack and stood pushing it up his shoulder. “You’ll take me home tomorrow night, right?” 

“I thought you weren’t coming.” The Jock frowned. 

“Benny said it was worth it.” Anna shrugged.

“You heard what Mr. Shirley said over the announcements." He scolded. 

“He won’t know I was part of the prank.” She shrugged.

“Annie.” Dean scolded her as she groaned. “You won’t walk.”

“But you’re okay not walking?” Anna countered.

“I’m going to be fine, there’s no way I can get in trouble for the prank.” He shrugged. “I’m their star player.” 

Castiel’s stomach dropped at their words. 

“Stay home,” The Jock called. “You know, the second it happens, you will be blamed too, since you always hang out with us.” She sighed, crossing her arms. “Stay. Home.”

“Got it.” Anna pouted. “...So where’s the next clue going to be?”

“Mrs. Kline’s Art Room,” Dean stated. “Since she’s on maternity leave and they haven’t gotten a sub, her class is empty. Perfect place to hide it.” 

“Well, good luck.” Anna smiled. 

“Thank you.” He turned and walked towards Mrs. Kline’s class. The grumpy teen waited till Anna walked past the bathroom to follow him. 

Every part of him wanted to believe Dean wasn’t behind the riddles. 

That it was just a funny coincidence, he would laugh about later. 

He hesitated at Mrs. Kline’s doorway, in the darkness. Dean knelt next to a desk. A smile touched his lips as he looked down at a medium red box with a little rose drawn on it. With a quiet, almost tender movement, Dean carefully slid the box into the desk's seat. The gentle click of a light switch was the only sound before the sudden flood of harsh fluorescent light filled the room, making Dean flinch. His head snapped up, startled, his calm expression replaced by one of surprise and something he couldn't quite place.

“C-Cas.” The Jock choked in horror.

His face read it all.

Castiel wasn’t supposed to know. 

Was he ever supposed to?

The grumpy teen’s lip quivered for a second before his eyes hardened in anger.

“It was you the whole time?!” Castiel yelled, making Dean flinch. 

“I-I…” He looked at the gift he still had in his hand. “...Yeah…It was me.”

“Were you laughing at me this whole time?” He snapped, making Dean blink, taken aback. 

“Wait, what?” Dean asked, confused.

“I bet you and your stupid football bros are laughing at me while having me run around the whole school for your stupid little prank!” The grumpy teen hissed. 

“W-Whoa, wait. Prank?” He stood. “I think there’s a misunderstanding. I only did this because—!”

“I don’t want to hear it!” He snapped. “I heard all about it! I knew you were laughing at me. I hoped you weren’t like them, but you always were, weren’t you? Did you get your laughs? Did you have fun?”

“N-No!” The Jock walked over to him, still cradling the box. “It isn’t like that!”

“Then tell me what it is like.” He crossed his arms, waiting for an answer. “What was the prank?”

“I-I can’t tell you that. Not till it’s over.” Dean shook his head. “I’m sorry, trust me when I say you shouldn’t know.” 

“Then tell me why you did this?” Castiel choked. “Tell me.”

“I…” The Jock hesitated, looking down. “...Please. Give me till tomorrow. It will all make sense tomorrow!” 

“No.” He hissed. “No, this is done. I actually don’t care about this. I don’t care about you, and I-I refuse to be a part of this anymore. I won’t be your punchline.” 

“Cas!” Dean moved to him quickly, grabbing him before he could leave through the door. “Please just take it.” He held the box to him, but Castiel turned away. “It’s for you.” 

He sounded like he was pleading.

“No!” The grumpy teen choked back tears.

He was crying!

Why was he crying?!

Dean didn’t matter to him!

His friendship didn’t matter to him!

This is why he didn’t get attached!

This is why he was moving far away to college!

People like Dean!

“...Please.” Dean’s soft voice made Castiel stop. He hated that he caved, slowly taking the box, unable to look at Dean as he cradled it to his chest. “Look. I know you don’t believe me…but come tomorrow.” He turned, grabbed a paper and pen from his bag, wrote something down, and ripped it from his notebook. “Solve this last one and meet me there at 5, and I’ll explain everything. I promise. I’m not pranking you.” He held out the riddle, his eyes pleading.

“And if I don’t go?” The grumpy teen whispered, his voice cracking, the words a desperate attempt to shield his already breaking heart. “Maybe I don’t care enough to.” He shrugged, the gesture he tried to show with indifference, as if that could truly convince himself he didn’t care too. “...Maybe I don’t want to see you again.”

“...Then I guess you’ll get your wish when the school year is over next Friday, huh?” The Jock mumbled sadly, his voice barely audible as he tried not to break. Castiel eyed him, saying nothing. He snatched the paper, turning and leaving Dean alone.

________________________________________________________________________________________________

Castiel moved towards his car, clenching the box to his chest so tightly it almost hurt when he turned the corner and slammed into Gabriel. The grumpy teen hit the ground, the gift tumbling from his hands, spilling its contents onto the floor. 

“Where’s the fire, Grumpy?” Gabriel chuckled, holding his hand out to him. Castiel didn’t respond, forcing himself up all on his own and brushing the dust off of him. 

“Bite me.” Castiel spat. 

“Ouch,” Gabriel stated, touching his heart. “And after all that snooping I went through for you.” Castiel turned to pick up the box, noticing the item on the floor. He knelt to grab them, pausing when he made out what exactly it was. Scooping up the novelty blanket, with roses on the ends that, when pulled together, looked like a bouquet of roses. He took it with care, just staring at it softly; it looked as though two people had worked on it. Some of the work was detailed, while the rest looked amateur. He cradled the blanket, looking down at it with tenderness.

This was obviously handmade.

The blanket itself was done by someone who was still learning; each row was different, giving it some charm. The roses were done by someone with experience, which really tied the blanket together to make it look more expensive than it was.

“Did you find anything out?” The grumpy teen mumbled, touching the amateur rows. 

“Yeah,” Gabriel hesitated. “I’m sorry to tell you this. My sources said they think you were correct, he was pranking you.” Castiel’s eyes fluttered at that. 

“How sure?” Castiel asked, heartbroken.

“My sources are never wrong.” He explained sadly. “Listen, my advice is to forget him and move on. It’s for the best.”

“Right…” The grumpy teen cleared his throat, turning to leave. “Thanks.” 

"Yo! Gabriel!" a furious teen shouted. Castiel paused, turning at the voice. "What the fuck, bro! You said your sources said my girlfriend was cheating on me, and she wasn't! Now I've lost her forever!" Lucifer snapped as he walked down the hall with his friend Michael. "I want my money back!"

“Impossible. My sources are never wrong.” Gabriel choked, making Castiel slowly raise an eyebrow.

First, he said Anna was Dean’s girlfriend.

Then this?

Castiel was very quickly starting to suspect otherwise. 

“Dude, they are ALWAYS wrong!” Lucifer hissed, turning to Castiel. “You. Don’t listen to him. He’s a quack.” 

“A quack?!” Gabriel scoffed, offended.

“You know that magic conch shell in SpongeBob?” Michael asked Castiel, who slowly nodded. “He got one on eBay two months ago.”

“And he’s been using it to SHELL out shitty advice for money while acting like he’s Sherlock fucking Homes with a spy network!” Lucifer grabbed his collar. “And now I’m going to kick his ass.” 

“Wait! Wait!” Gabriel choked shyly, hiding his face behind his hands in case he hit him. “I have always been right for me!”

“That’s because you ask it if you should eat a third donut, you fucking stoner.” Michael snapped. 

“Rude, I’m an entrepreneur.” Gabriel snapped. 

“Then why did my girlfriend show me proof she was in a baptism when you said she was cheating?!” Lucifer growled. 

“Not the face!” He whimpered when Lucifer forced him to turn, ripping off his backpack and dumping it onto the floor. The magic conch fell to the floor in a pathetic display, even giving off a ‘...I see a new sauce in your future.’ 

“...I’m going to really kill you.” Lucifer snapped, and Gabriel looked at Lucifer in fear.

“Not the face! I’m hot!” Gabriel yelped as Lucifer started to shake him.

So he had no source?

He wasn’t sure?

“Look,” Michael turned to Castiel. “Whatever he said to you…I recommend doing the exact fucking opposite. Trust me.” He spoke. Castiel took in his words, his eyes moving to the blanket against his chest before he turned to leave. Getting into his car, he sat there for a long time just taking in everything that had happened. 

He needed time to think.

Needed a moment.

He sucked in air, burying his face into the rose blanket bouquet.

This smelled like Dean.

Even with how conflicted he felt, he couldn’t escape the first thought that came to his head.

He really missed Dean.

His eyes moved to the paper in his hand as he sadly stared at the note, unsure what to do.

His head said this was a cruel prank.

His heart screamed the Dean he knew would never hurt him like that.

Castiel honestly didn't know which one to believe.

He didn't know what to do.

But...all he knew is...despite it all, he hoped it was his heart that won.

Chapter Text

Friday:

He liked Dean, didn’t he?

Castiel thought the realization of that would hit him like a freight train last night.

Although it was odd how easy it was to accept.

As if a part of him had known all along. 

It’s because it was easier to accept loving someone if it was Dean Winchester. 

Loving Dean Winchester was easy.

Of course, Castiel would fall for the green, doe-eyed golden retriever. 

The boy who spent hours with him pretending he had a concussion just to talk to him.

Who tried to engage with him despite Castiel’s best efforts to keep people away.

Dean Winchester.

Even saying his name made his cheeks red. 

He liked him.

He really liked him.

Though he was having a hard time with the ‘what now.’

Did he truly believe the worst?

That this was an elaborate game to Dean?

That Castiel meant nothing to him to hurt him like this?

And the gifts…

They seemed so…thoughtful. 

He still had the rose bookmark in his book, the rose keychain on his car keys, and the teddy bear tucked into the discarded rose blanket on his bed, even now. He had, in fact, cradled the teddy bear all night. His eyes were puffy from crying, though he doubted anyone would believe an angry man could be so conflicted. Castiel stared down at Dean's riddle.

“I have many seats but no people. 

I have a stage but no actors. 

I have a roof but no walls. 

What am I?”

“An auditorium." He mumbled to himself. 

His last class had been over for a bit, but all he could do was haunt these halls like a ghost. Unable to make himself go home, but unable to make him enter the auditorium. 

It was after five, by about twenty minutes. Dean said five…and to be fair, he was here. He just…didn’t go inside. 

Most of the people had come and gone from the school, but some waited around for the football game at six. However, in his hall, no one was there but him, which made him feel so still despite his mind going a million miles a minute. He wondered if Dean was still there. Waiting for him. 

Maybe his friends had given up on the prank.

He doubted Dean would still be here if it were.

Dean had a game.

He was most likely gone already.

It was most likely empty.

Castiel’s stomach dropped at the thought of that being true. But somehow that little thought was enough for Castiel to grab the handle and pull it open. Walking in without hesitation, he stood in the silent auditorium, looking over the dark room. He expected the darkness to fill the whole room, but the stage lights were still bright, pointed onto the stage where Dean Winchester still sat. Cradling something in his hands, he glanced up at the sound of the squeaking door. 

“... You're late,” The Jock breathed, looking down. “...I didn’t think you were coming.”

“...I didn’t think I was either,” The grumpy teen whispered, slowly walking up. 

“Then why did you?” He asked.

“I thought you’d be gone,” Castiel stated, walking down to him. 

“Ah.” Dean breathed sadly, accepting his fate. 

“...and that I’d finally build up the courage and you wouldn’t be here, admittedly scared me.” The grumpy teen breathed, making Dean glance up in surprise. “Why did you stay? You should be getting ready for the game.”

“I couldn't care less about the game,” The Jock admitted. 

“But…it could ruin everything,” Castiel spoke. “You could tarnish your future by missing it, and not only that, you’d let down your team.” He offered his hand to Castiel, which he took as he climbed the steps, then took a seat next to him. 

“...The idea you would show and I wouldn’t be here scared me more than the idea of throwing away my future,” Dean gave a sad chuckle. “Because I would happily risk it all if I had a chance to have a future with you rather than a future without you…” He eyed him tenderly. “That’s why I did the riddles and faked these spirit week challenges… I…wanted to ask you out.”  

“...So this isn’t a prank?” The grumpy teen spoke, holding his knee, their hands still holding one another. “...You…really like me?”

“Yeah.” The Jock chuckled, scratching the back of his head, shyly. “Since we first met. You left an impression.”

“Why didn’t you say anything?” He asked with care.

“You were supposedly straight till two months ago,” Dean stated, looking down. “I didn’t have the courage till I thought there might be a chance you might say yes.”

Right.

He came out not too long ago. 

A girl had told him so and so liked him, but she and her friends were laughing, and obviously, she was doing it for a bit. 

You know that, ‘so and so likes you,’ followed by disgusted noises by so and so?

Yeah.

That’s when he told her he was gay in front of the whole lunchroom. 

“...Anna was there when you said it. She literally ran across campus to tell me.” The Jock smiled fondly at the memory. “Told me she was my fairy godmother and poof, you were a homo.” Castiel shook his head at that. “...Then I made it my life’s mission to get you to notice me.”

“You could have asked me out.” The grumpy teen hummed, resting his chin on his knee.

“I tried, and you told me no.” Dean deadpanned. 

“Wait, when?!” Castiel choked in surprise, a shocked expression on his face.

"A month ago, I came to you for math help," The Jock confessed. "I'm fine at math, but... I just wanted an excuse to talk to you." He admitted his feelings. "I asked for your number, hoping to take you out sometime for ‘helping me’. But you said, and I quote, 'there’s no reason to exchange numbers if you don’t have a good reason to.' That really hurt, especially since everyone told me that line is idiot-proof and it would work." 

“...I was the one who rejected you, misunderstanding your intentions.” The grumpy teen looked mortified.

“The very one. You were the only crush I have ever had.” Dean hummed, amused. “That’s why I went more in your face about it, hoping you notice.”

He had done so without even giving it much thought.

Castiel would have never imagined THE Dean Winchester was asking him out and was SERIOUS about it!

Even if he had given it more thought, he would have thought it was a cruel prank.

Like…he had.

"I almost gave up, but the team and Anna were our biggest supporters. They helped me devise the riddle challenge, design the poster, and figure out the riddles... Anna even helped me make the crochet rose blanket."

“You made that?!” The grumpy teen choked. “You made…all of it? For me?” The Jock nodded, letting go of his hand. 

“Anything to get your attention!” Dean beamed happily. “That way, you would have had no choice but to realize my affections.” 

“So…what would have happened if…” He whispered.

“If you didn’t find out everything?” Dean stated, forcing himself up and helping Castiel up. “Today, you would have followed the last clue to come in and see this.” The Jock walked over to the extension cord and plugged in some string lights.

Castiel’s eyes turned back towards the stage to see the work ‘PROM’ written out in Christmas lights on a large cardboard sign bigger than them. With roses surrounding the glowing words. The grumpy teen walked over, taking it in, tears filling his eyes.

“Then if you said yes, I would have taken you to the plaza and taken you out on a short picnic date as your consolation prize for being such a good sport.”

“T-That’s why the roses?” Castiel turned and paused, seeing that Dean held open a small box.

“I did say it was because prom was coming up.” He shrugged nervously. “This was the final riddle’s prize.”

“And the grand prize?” The grumpy teen whispered, touching it.

“...Me being your boyfriend, if you had allowed me to be...” The Jock smiled as he opened the box. “This is why I had the other prizes…just in case you did all this and didn’t want me as the final prize. You can just have these.”

He recognized the box.

This was what Dean was trying to find in his locker with Anna that day.

“I figured instead of boring flowers as the tokens to ask you to prom, you would enjoy physically useful things like bookmarks and keychains with flowers on them, so you can get multiple uses out of them. Since you’re big on saving the planet and all.” The Jock continued. “I hope you don’t mind these being real…but um, if you…want to…will you go to prom with—?”

He was silenced when Castiel cupped his face and kissed him.

“DEAN!” Anna’s voice called just as Benny and Anna pushed through the doors, breaking the kiss. “You have to go!”

“Coach is losing his—!” Benny and Anna paused when they realized they had walked in on them kissing. “...mind.” 

“Oh my god! He came!” Anna gasped, happily clapping her hands together. 

“They were kissing.” He pointed out in shock.

“OH MY GOD!” She gasped when she realized and squealed.

“Yo, Dean! We love and support you and your new boyfriend, but you’re going to be late! Michael and Lucifer can only distract Coach for so long!” Benny called loudly towards them.

“Dean, go.” The grumpy teen urged him to go, taking the rose corsage, but Dean grabbed his wrist.

“I-Is that a yes?!” The Jock looked at him with pleading eyes. 

“Yes!” Castiel nodded happily.

“Yes?” He lit up.

“Yes!” The grumpy teen reassured. “Now go!” Dean nodded, turning to bolt with Benny to the locker room. Castiel watched him go when Anna snagged his arm.

“I knew you’d come!” Anna hummed. “I had so much faith, I saved you a seat next to me so we can cheer for him together!” She started to lead him out to the football field. “I was just finishing crocheting you a beanie so you can rock Dean’s number!” She pointed to her own.

“Won’t Dean get a new number in college?” Castiel mumbled.

“I’ll just make you a new one.” She hummed, leaning on him. “Hope you don’t mind meeting your boyfriend’s parents, since you know, they are there too.” The grumpy teen could only blush.

________________________________________________________________________________________

Castiel sat between Anna and Dean’s mother, Mary. They had made him feel so at home that it was almost like he had been there since day one, despite feeling very shy and awkward. Mary told him Dean talked about him a lot, so she felt like she knew him so well already. The grumpy teen was admittedly lost in some aspects of the sport, but Dean’s family was more than happy to educate him since they themselves were big sports fans.

Though he did understand one important thing.

Dean and his team were about to win.

Everyone was holding their breaths as though if they even breathed it would destroy their chances of a win.

Dean was in his element, though. 

You could tell it was second nature to be out on the field. 

Watching Dean play, he felt like he wanted to love the sport too, just to support him.

The tension in the stadium was so thick you could almost taste it. Dean’s team had the football. Captain Benny, fueled by pure adrenaline, launched himself forward, a blur as he slammed into the defenders, fighting for every inch toward the end zone. The crowd's roar was deafening, a chaotic mix of shouts and cheers. However, his direct path was blocked by the other team. Benny’s eyes darted across the field, desperate for an open teammate as he scrambled to pass it.

Before Castiel even knew what was happening, the ball left Benny's hands, a perfect spiral cutting through the air. The grumpy teen's gaze followed it, his heart hammering. Across the field, Dean, moving with an almost otherworldly instinct toward the goalpost, opened his arms in a plea.

Dean soared into the air, stunned gasps escaping from everyone in the stadium. Time seemed to stretch; every eye was fixed on the ball. A hushed silence fell, replaced almost immediately by a swelling murmur as people slowly rose to their feet. The ball settled perfectly into Dean's waiting arms as he fell back, landing squarely in the touch zone. A wave of pure relief washed over him just as two opposing players crashed into him – a futile attempt to stop the inevitable. 

But it was too late. 

Dean had scored. 

Dean had won! 

The stadium pulsed with a roar, a wave of joy that crashed from the stands and spilled onto the field. The players, a blur of helmets and pads, went absolutely wild. They tackled each other in bone-crushing hugs, buzzing with adrenaline, and bounced around like crazy, just overflowing with energy.

In the middle of all the chaos in the bleachers, Anna, her face beaming, threw her arms around Castiel. He hugged her back tightly, sharing in the huge moment. But as he turned to find Dean, his eyes landed on a bunch of football players sprinting towards the sidelines. The principal was over there, grinning from ear to ear and chatting animatedly with the coach, totally wrapped up in their shared victory. It was in that blitz that he missed what was about to happen.

Little did they know, Benny, Dean, Michael, and Lucifer had stealthily crept up behind them. With a mischievous look in their eyes, they grabbed a big cooler from under a nearby table. Together, straining with all their might, they lifted the heavy container, open and full of red liquid, and with a collective heave, flipped it over, drenching the unsuspecting Principal Shirley and Coach with a torrent of icy red Gatorade, a shit ton of penis-shaped glitter/confetti, and Gigantic gummy penises. 

Not only was it raining phalluses.

They shone like Twilight knock-off vampires under all the lights. 

“AGAIN?! AFTER THE UNMENTIONABLE SYMBOL YOU GUYS SPRAY PAINTED ON MY CAR?! YOUR PARENTS WILL HEAR ABOUT THIS!” They bolted away as Chuck screamed his head off, shaking his fist while the teens bolted away laughing full belly laughs. Dean made his way up to Anna, Castiel, and his family with Benny. 

“Dude. I can’t believe we got it!” The Jock laughed, high-fiving Benny.

“That prank was worth it!” Benny snorted. 

“Wait.” The grumpy teen choked, laughing. “That was the prank?!” 

“While Dean was wooing you for ‘spirit week’.” Benny chuckled. “We were having a ‘Dick week’. First was cartoon penis stickers left around the school, then we mailed him tons of bags of gummy dicks.” 

“Then, on Wednesday, we spray-painted cartoon penises on his car,” The Jock stated before adding. “Don’t worry, it comes off with water.” 

“Yesterday, we filled Mr. Shirley’s office with penis squish toys.” Benny snorted. “And today it was raining dicks.” 

“We couldn’t tell you or Anna till it was over, because by the time you suspected this was a prank, we were too deep into the actual pranks, and he was very aware we were doing it. We worried about collateral damage from him going nuclear.” Dean scratched the back of his head. 

“Aren’t you worried you guys won’t walk?” Castiel asked.

“Nah, we are his prodigies. He’s a big football guy. Would soil his name and his exceptional record of shelling out stars if we don’t walk like model students.” The Jock chuckled. “But you and Anna aren’t. Which is why I didn’t tell you and also why I told Annie here to stay home.” He glanced at her, who blinked innocently, sticking out her tongue at her legal name.

“I had Aunt Mary be my alibi if Mr. Shirley comes knocking!” Anna hummed, putting an arm around Mary, who laughed. “Besides, you didn’t tell Cassie to stay home.”

“I-I…didn’t think he would ever come,” Dean whispered, turning to look at him, as if it really just hit him he was here. “...you came?”

“I have to support my boyfriend, don’t I?” The grumpy teen shrugged innocently, making Dean light up. “See, I even got your merch.” Castiel tapped the beanie Anna gave him. Dean chuckled, putting his arms around his waist. 

“My boyfriend looks really cute in my merch.” The Jock hummed, happily pulling him close. The grumpy teen shied at the mention of his looks, slightly tilting his head down.

“I know I don’t look it,” He mumbled, wrapping his arms around his neck. “But I am really happy right now.” 

He hated how he always looked so angry.

It seemed to rob him of his happiest times.

“What are you talking about?” Dean cooed softly, touching his chin. “I’ve never seen you look so radiantly happy.” Castiel happily leaned in and kissed him. 

“Boy, if you don’t stop macking on your boyfriend and give your parents a hug!” John called to Dean, and Castiel pulled back. Dean laughed, moving to hug his parents.

“We are going for pizza after this, love,” Mary called. “It would be our honor if you’d come since you’re part of this family now.” 

“I might…make some of you uncomfortable.” Castiel hesitated. “You should go for it.”

“Why?” A kid’s voice made him glance up. He recognized the ten-year-old from Dean’s wallpaper. This must be his brother, Sam.

"My face…sometimes it makes people feel…upset…”  His eyes slid over the expectant group, their eager eyes welcoming him.

“I used to have a cleft lip!” Sam stated, beaming, it really showed the small scar when he smiled. “I made people sad a lot when they saw it. Did you have one too?”

“T-That’s not what I—” The grumpy teen started instantly feeling terrible about complaining about a resting bitch face, but those words really hit him. His eyes slid over Dean’s family, who looked at him with such love and acceptance. These strangers who didn’t know him looked at him with more affection than people he had known for years. 

It was the first time he felt seen by people.

Truly seen.

“...I’d love to.” Castiel smiled ear to ear as Dean pulled him close, pressing a kiss to his forehead as they headed out to dinner.

_________________________________________________________________________________________________

Five years later:

The grumpy man stood in the bustling coffee shop, the rich aroma of roasted beans mingling with the crisp autumn air. His eyes slid over the vibrant crimson and gold leaves outside that transformed the quaint small town into the same picture postcard he had all those years ago on his bedroom wall. This was everything he had ever dreamed of when researching and picking colleges. A quiet, unassuming town that didn't know his name or his past, a sanctuary far removed from the familiar chaos he had left behind. The years he had spent in this small town would forever be etched in his memory. He knew, with a certainty, that the memories here would be something he would forever cherish.

“Castiel.” The barista called. Castiel grabbed the two cups of coffee and walked them outside.

“Excuse me.” A voice spoke softly in front of him, gaining his attention. “I’m sorry if this is bold, but I thought you were cute and wanted to see if we could go out sometime.” His eyes fell onto the woman talking to the bulky man who patiently stood outside the coffee shop. He was bundled up for the chilly autumn cold front.

“I’m married.” Dean’s voice sounded with a chuckle, taking off his glove to show the ring on his finger.

“Oh! I’m sorry.” The woman choked, embarrassed. “I didn’t know.”

“It’s okay.” The Jock smiled, noticing Castiel coming up. “Speaking of which.” The woman recoiled in fear of Castiel’s resting bitch face.

“I-I’m sorry. I-It was a mistake. I-I didn’t realize he was your husband.” She yelped. “Here, just take it.” The grumpy man paused when she slid money into his hand, quickly leaving. 

It was surprising how often people assumed he was either going to fight them or rob them just by his neutral expression. 

He wondered what rumor she had heard that made her think she fucked up big time to be hitting on Castiel’s husband.

Was it the mob boss rumor?

The serial killer one?

Either way, she ran with a tail between her legs before Castiel could give her her money back. 

“...And she’s gone.” The grumpy man glanced down at the wad of cash in his hand.

“And that’s going to help pay for our coffee for the next few months.” Dean hummed, taking it and sliding it into his pocket. 

“This is your fault. Stop getting hit on when I leave you alone.” Castiel teased. “I only just slapped that sucker on.” He touched his hand, caressing the ring.

“If you’d not leave my side, we’d get what we both want.” The Jock hummed, kissing him again and fully taking his hand. “Come on, you’re going to be late to class.” They walked down the trail of autumn leaves. “I think I’m just going to have to not wear my glove anymore on my right hand.” He teased, making Castiel shake his head affectionately.

“Could you?” He retorted, making Dean laugh. “Even when the weather hits the negatives?”

“Sure, I didn’t need these fingers anyway.” Dean snorted when Castiel kissed his fingers. “I can’t believe we are almost done with school.”

“You’re technically done.” The grumpy man laughed. “It’s not often people get picked to go pro from college, and they picked you.” 

“They are just happy that I finally agreed. They’ve been barking up my tree since high school.” The Jock waved it off. 

“High school?” He raised an eyebrow, stopping. Dean froze slightly. “You never told me that! Why didn’t you just take their offer then!”

“...Because if I had, I would have had to leave you…and I wanted you to come with me,” Dean admitted tenderly. “...Waiting for you to finish your schooling at your dream school was worth it to me. You’ll be done with your schooling by the time I’m all set to start.”

“Dean, you didn’t have to sacrifice to follow me here.” Castiel touched his cold cheek with his hand. 

“I didn’t sacrifice anything. I merely followed my heart. I wouldn’t have given up one moment of our lives here.” The Jock hummed. 

“But you could have had your happy ending sooner.” He mumbled, looking down, when Dean tapped his chin, raising him to look at him. 

“Don’t you get it yet? You were my happy ending, everything else was just a bonus.” Dean smiled gently, their foreheads touching. Castiel's eyes fluttered closed, leaning into Dean's touch. His hands found Dean's, holding them with all the love he could muster. He lovingly touched their lips together as his fingers lightly brushed against their rings. Beautiful matching bands gleamed there with little red and green gems in the shape of roses eternally resting inside, a silent promise of their forever.

The end.