(A/N: Rated M for mature content and language.

Thank you all for the reviews, favorites and follows. It's a long one; I couldn't figure out where to break it up. Aaaand this be the end. Thanks for reading along!

Enjoy.)

Dean was on his way to a nice, heavy drunk. But unfortunately, even through the wobbly haze of booze, he still felt. He hated feeling... things. Especially bad things. Like betrayed. And kinda broken. Yeah, it made him feel like an angsty emo chick or something, but why else was he nursing his fifth beer (after three whiskeys) and practically crying on Benny's shoulder? He'd babbled about love and finally being OK with liking Cas' dick. He might've gone into details... He didn't really remember at the moment.

And Benny—good ol' solid, fuzzy Benny—had just listened and, miraculously, hadn't called him names.

Or tried to hug it out.

Even though he kinda wanted one...

Fuck; what the hell was wrong with him? He slumped over and pouted at his beer.

"Nothin', brother," Benny said, shaking his head and trying to figure out if he was amused or depressed to his eyebrows.

Dean turned blurry eyes towards his friend, belatedly realizing he must've said that last part aloud. Benny was giving him a weird little smile and he nearly fell off his stool when he cocked his head quizzically a little too far, and a little too quickly, for his drunken balance. He felt that that dog in those commercials. "Wha'?"

"There ain't nothin' wrong with you," Benny said again, biting back the urge to sigh. Or shake Dean until his teeth rattled in his drunken skull. The idiot. "Love makes fools of us all," he added sagely.

Dean snorted inelegantly and drained his beer. "Fuckin' Shakespeare over here," he muttered under his breath. He wanted to deny the whole 'L' word thing, but he really couldn't at the moment. And of course, it was kinda funny hearing Benny being all wise since he talked like he did. All smooth and lazy. He knew Benny wasn't dumb, but it was still funny as hell hearing him get all philosophical on him. Like—

"Like, Nietzsche and shit."

Benny sighed, rolling his eyes. He'd spent nearly an hour listening to Dean mope and blubber about Castiel between downing shots and glugging beer. It hadn't been easy to just sit there, making sympathetic noises, either. He'd been tempted to pry the glass from Dean's hand or interject a few times, but he knew Dean well enough to shut his face if he wanted the man to keep talking. And he could tell Dean needed to...

Dean rarely talked so openly. About anything that wasn't his boy or that damn car he was slowly, but surely, restoring. (Yeah, it was a panty (boxer?) dropper, alright, but Dean was almost creepily attached to that shiny black Impala.) So, he'd listened. He'd even managed to squash those teensy lingering traces of jealousy and disappointment to hear Dean speak, openly, about his feelings for someone else. A male someone else. He'd had the biggest crush on Dean when they first met. Then he met the guy's kid, heard about his baby-mama drama and tried his best to rein in the feelings. It wasn't the first time he'd found himself barking up the wrong tree, after all.

But now, hearing Dean wail on about some guy not liking him— Well. Benny was torn between the urge to cry like a big ol' baby and running off to go punch the stupid bastard's lights out.

He'd only met this Cas once. As far as Benny could tell, he'd been a decent guy. The dude was quiet and a little on the intense side but he seemed nice enough. Castiel seemed to have spent most of the evening imagining Dean naked (not that Benny could blame him) or something because of the looks he'd sent Dean whenever he thought no one was looking. At the time, he figured there wasn't much past friendship on Dean's end... until he caught the intense way they had looked at each other.

It got to be a little awkward for anyone stuck near 'em, quite honestly. He and Jo had actually opened a betting pool to see how long it would take for them to start going at it on one of the pool tables. (They didn't; he lost 20 bucks that night. He still wasn't sure how, exactly, he felt about that.)

So, he was damned shocked when Dean started sniffling and pouring his heart out; He figured Cas woulda thrown himself at Dean, not at some girl. His loss really—if it was true. Which he had some serious doubts that was the case. Again, he had seen the way the guy looked at Dean... kinda like Dean eyed a warm slice of apple pie, à la Mode.

Benny placed a hand on Dean's shoulder, a little surprised when Dean leaned into the comforting touch, cocking his head enough so his stubbled cheek lightly brushed the back of his hand briefly.

"Maybe," he started slowly, "You shoulda hung around, brother. I think... I think there's prob'ly something else goin' on there." He nodded when Dean slowly turned to him, slightly glazed green eyes blinking at him. He has to smother the urge to laugh when Dean tried to give him a mighty bitch-face, the resulting glare reduced to almost cuteness because of the drunken-hazy squint.

Dean grunted and picked up his beer. He shook the bottle, a moue of disappointed confusion on his face when he realized it was empty. He went to ask for another one and turned a glare onto his friend when Benny's bear-paw was on his arm, gently but insistently easing his arm down. He huffed; he wanted another beer, dammit. But he knew Benny wouldn't cave, not if he'd decided to cut Dean off, the pushy bastard.

"Nuh uh," he said after a too-long pause. It was a weak argument but it was the best he could do at the moment.

"Yeah huh," Benny returned, laughing outright. Dean looked away, a petulant little frown on his face and he clapped the other man on the shoulder. "You're just too close to see it, man. I mean, I only met the guy once but it was enough to see that he'd make himself at home in your jeans if given the go-ahead."

Dean perked up a little at that. He liked that idea. He'd need bigger jeans though, even if Cas was all lithe and shit. Sexy little fucker had those runner's legs. And that ass... He blinked, remembering he was with Benny, not Cas. And thoughts of living in a pair of jeans with Cas was kinda moot anyway. "Yeah?" Benny nodded back, rolling his eyes like it was obvious or something.

His face fell when he remembered the way Cas had been hugging that girl. "No, he wants a girl." He couldn't believe his nose wrinkled with disgust and disbelief, but there it was. Before he'd met Cas and all the gay stuff, he probably woulda thought she was cute. Maybe not quite 'wanna bang her' cute, but cute. Nice body, and pretty hair from what he saw. He bet she had pretty eyes, too. Big ones that probably would sparkle and have little cartoon hearts in them. He could see why Cas liked her.

"Doubt it, brother."

Dean sucked his teeth. "You don' know. You din' see 'im!" he muttered, feeling sad again. "He was all smilin' and happy and shit." He slumped on his stool again, remembering that happy smile Cas had. He liked to think he was the only one that got smiles like that... Those were his smiles, dammit. Usually Cas was all reserved and didn't go around smiling like an idiot all the time. Dean's smile was given to a girl and he wished he had another damn beer.

The door opened and Benny closed his mouth on the next batch of reassuring words. As he turned to tell whoever was coming in to 'fuck off, we're closed', he saw it was Castiel. The guy was panting and looked a mess with his hair all wild and crazy like he'd been running around like a wild man. Or sticking his hand through it, repeatedly, panicked and frustrated. His eyes were wide, darting around wildly until he saw Dean. Then they got all warm and crinkled a little in the corners as the tensed shoulders relaxed.

Well, was enough to sooth most of the concerns Benny might've had. He waved Castiel closer, nodding once when the other man gave him a curious, questioning look. He nearly laughed, amused despite his role as protective friend. He would tear into the guy if it were needed but he was pretty sure it wasn't in this case. God help the asshole if he learned otherwise, though.

"Hey," Benny said to Castiel, urging him closer with another wave of his hand. He slid off of his stool and clapped Dean on the back, making the man wobble drunkenly on his stool. If he'd been unsure about Castiel before, he was completely satisfied (and comforted) to see the man rush over, hands out on either side of Dean and ready to catch Dean's drunken ass if he pitched over. He nodded and disappeared into the back, giving the men some privacy.

Castiel kept a hand on the small of Dean's back, eyes narrowed a little as Dean's balance finally returned. "Dean," he murmured, easing himself onto the vacated stool. He nearly flinched a little when Dean whirled around, looking shocked, and he saw the state the man was in. "I don't understand what happened," he admitted quietly, looking Dean over. Dean looked ready to fall over.

And like he'd been crying, Castiel realized feeling a pained ache in his chest. The hand he still had on Dean's waist moved automatically, sliding upwards to rub at Dean's back in an attempt to sooth and comfort. He didn't know what the problem was, only that he'd been beside himself when Dean ran from his house earlier. He tried to come up with a reason for Dean's hasty retreat and current mood and regrettably came up blank.

Dean blinked a few times, rubbing his eyes for good measure. He didn't think he was drunk enough to start hallucinating... Even with his messier-than-usual hair, worried frown pulling his mouth down and heavily wrinkled shirt, Cas kinda looked like an angel right now. He smiled dopily. "Cas?" His smile widened into a grin when he saw Cas nod. He nearly leaned forward, ready to hug him and kiss his stupid pretty lips off. Beautiful (in a totally manly way, though, OK?), perfect, wonderful Cas.

No—wait. Sneaky, cheating, lying Cas, he amended when he remembered why he came to drown his sorrows in whiskey and cry on Benny's shoulder. Cas didn't want him. Cas wanted a girl. He caught himself before he could face-plant on Cas' face and leaned away, eyeing Cas warily. Cas was smiling in that unsure way he had and looking back at him, obviously waiting for something. Like he didn't know why Dean was upset and was hoping he'd open up and spill his guts.

Yeah, alright, fine. Dean could do that; he was gonna tell Cas exactly what he was thinking. He leaned forward just enough to be able to jab a finger in Cas' chest. He felt like snickering when Cas rubbed at the spot, his eyebrows pinched together. Then he felt like kissing it. He frowned and looked at Cas for a few moments, annoyed and confused when Cas just sat there, patient as always.

"Why d'you need a girl, Cas?" Dean finally asked, too scared to speak any louder than a whisper. Wasn't he enough? After all they been through and the things he'd done—the changes he'd had made... All of it had been for Cas. It wasn't like he was sorry about it; he knew Cas was worth it. He suddenly felt like crying all over again when he remembered he'd been too dumb to do it sooner.

He peeked up at Cas through his lashes, trying not to meet those stupid blue eyes head on. Because they did things to him (and he knew Cas knew that, the little shit) and he wasn't in the mood to be sweet-talked (or maybe it was sweet-eyed?) into forgiving Cas or any of that kinda bullshit. He picked at his jeans, and attempted to wait Cas out.

It took Castiel a long moment to realize what Dean was talking about. Oh. He kind of wanted to smack the shit out of the drunken fool. Or kiss him breathless. Probably both, one right after the other. Instead, he folded his hands together and rested them on the bar, looking at Dean intently.

"Anna," he said, knowingly.

Dean nodded, miserable and resigned. Anna. So that was who he was gonna lose Cas to. There was warmth and affection—love—in that single word. Two little syllables that manage to break his heart and ruin everything. He swallowed the lump that suddenly got stuck in his throat and made himself look at Cas. His eyes widened; he was really confused when Cas moved closer, smiling—those beautiful blue eyes all warm and doing that crinkle thing in the corners.

There was that same lovey-dovey look on Cas' face now but Anna wasn't there.

Dean almost looked around, expecting to see her standing over his shoulder and looking all smug 'cause she got his Cas. "What?" he muttered, completely confused and off-balance now. Cas was giving him a look that pretty much said he was an idiot, even if a lovable one.

"My sister," Castiel said slowly.

Dean stilled, confused more than ever. The words finally penetrated his whiskey soaked brain and he nearly fell off his stool when he sagged with relief.

"Your sis'er," he mumbled, repeating the words in wonder. He suddenly pitched forward, making a weird little noise of contentment, relief and happiness when Cas caught him, arms around him securely. Cas smiled again—a bigger one that made his nose do that crinkle thing that Dean found adorably sexy. He really wanted to kiss those stupid wrinkles but he had more important things to focus on.

Like Cas having a sister. What the hell, man?

"You din' tell me you had a sister," Dean slurred, scowling and trying to right himself. OK—He knew Cas had family, but not actual details besides they didn't talk any more. Cas' smile dimmed and Dean felt terrible. He made a distressed sound and pitched forward again, wrapping his arms tightly around Cas. He tucked his face in Cas' neck and squeezed him until the other man squeaked. "It's okay, you don' have to tell me," he babbled. Cas didn't have to tell him anything. Ever. As long as he didn't leave.

Even drunk, Dean knew that was a pretty pathetic stand to take, but he didn't care. He couldn't imagine no more Cas. It almost made him want to cry all over again. And he hated doing that girly shit. He was blaming the dust in the bar (he knew Jo didn't even own a duster). Or the whiskey for the water-works... That was the only explanation for it since he was so not a crying kinda guy.

"We've only recently started speaking again," Castiel said softly. Dean was looking up at him raptly, his green eyes tinged red and the beginnings of dark circles around them. He felt horrible knowing he was the cause for that.

Well... A misunderstanding had been the cause.

But he hadn't helped matters any, apparently. He couldn't have predicted how wrongly Dean would interpret his earlier actions, he had no idea it would've been possible, really. He didn't think... Well, obviously he hadn't thought anything through at all. He'd only recently started talking to his sister again and he'd been superstitiously afraid to mention it; even to Dean. He'd been honestly afraid something would happen to have the tentative relationship dissolve before it had a chance to renew. He now saw the error of that, but it couldn't be helped now.

Castiel had been expecting Dean when he heard the door, but not for another hour. He went to answer it, feeling ridiculously giddy—a joking comment about Dean using his new key on the tip of his tongue—only to be completely surprised to open his door and see his baby sister, smiling warily, on his front step. Three letters and one awkward phone call hadn't prepared him for Anna's arrival; at his home or physically back into his life.

He was a little ashamed to admit that thoughts of Dean had fled his mind when Anna's arms wrapped tightly around him and the familiar, and long missed, scent of baby powder and lavender hit him.

"When I realized I was gay, my parents... didn't react well." Under-fucking-statement. Castiel noticed a soft look on Dean's face, understanding in those blurry but still gorgeous green eyes. Dean seemed to work out what probably had happened and he didn't have to explain—if he didn't want to. And he didn't. Not right now. "Anna was young, she had no choice but to obey my parents wishes. Until tonight, I hadn't spoken to her or seen her in nearly five years."

Dean felt terrible all over again. His eyes and nose prickled and he couldn't stop the tears, even if he tried. Goddamn whiskey dust. "I'm sorry!" he sniffled. "And I go and ruin it!" He was this close to wailing like Sammy with a skinned knee... He was so stupid and so ready to think the worst. He knew Cas better than that, dammit. If he hadn't been such a dick, Cas would still be catching up with his little sister.

The little sister his Cas hadn't seen in five fucking years! He was a terrible boyfriend.

"I was a dick and I ruined your reunion with your sister," Dean choked out, wiping at his face with angry, uncoordinated swipes. Cas should punch him. Or leave and go back to his sister. And stay there with her. Dean wouldn't blame him...

Holy hell. He needed to lay off the whiskey if it was going to turn him into such a freakin' girl.

"Dean," Castiel said softly, handing the man a cocktail napkin. Dean didn't take it, so he leaned in, grabbed the other man's sullen face by the chin and dabbed at the tear tracks himself. His chest clenched as he gently wiped off Dean's face, wondering how the hell they'd gotten to this point. They didn't spend excessive amounts of time talking, mostly at Dean's silent request, but they did discuss important things. Dean wasn't always forthcoming about touchy subjects but he'd learned to read most of the subtle nuances in Dean's expressions and non-verbal cues.

He'd never met someone so paradoxically self-assured yet insecure before and he was still learning most of Dean's quirks. He felt like a failure for not realizing Dean had felt so... inadequate or that he wasn't aware of Castiel's complete adoration of the man. And fidelity. He would have to work on that... Even if it meant saying awkward, touchy-feely things Dean would rather avoid. He cupped the side of Dean's neck and gently shushed the man (halting what was no doubt going to be another drunken tirade) when Dean's mouth opened.

"It's fine, Dean. You didn't ruin anything, alright? She's in the car," Castiel said, suddenly feeling nervous. He crumpled the damp napkin in his hand, looking at Dean and waiting for a reaction.

Dean sniffled (in a very manly way, of course, thankyouverymuch), wiping at his nose with the back of his hand. He stilled, blinking a few times before he just sat there and stared. "Really?" Cas nodded, his fingers pinching and tearing at the napkin in his hands. He looked up, refusing to be distracted by those agile, sexy hands turning the napkin into confetti. "Why?"

"I was hoping she could meet you," Cas said slowly, looking at Dean expectantly.

Dean blinked some more, stunned to see that Cas was lightly blushing and looking nervous. "Why?" he blurted out again.

"Because—" Cas started and then paused. He narrowed his eyes slightly, unsure if Dean was being deliberately dense or not. "Because I want her to meet you."

His younger sister didn't exactly understand the 'gay thing' (as she put it) but she didn't fully share their parents opinion on it, either. She was just thrilled to finally see him again. When he'd admitted he was seeing someone and he barely got the words out before Anna was squealing, hugging him again and asking to meet him. She had used her little-sister-gets-what-she-wants tone and demanded to thank whatever man had been able to make her brother smile and give that spark back to his eyes.

Their hug had been interrupted... And well—Now, here they were.

Dean felt... squishy. Warm. Overwhelmed. All that goopy shit you see in movies where people twirl around and suck face in the rain like sappy lunatics. He grabbed at Cas and hugged him again, nodding and trying to say "Okay" through the lump in his throat. Cas must've understood because he felt all gooey again when Cas pulled back enough to give him another ones of those eye wrinkling, nose crinkling smiles again.

Meeting family was big time. Especially estranged family that didn't accept you being gay. He hoped Anna was nice—he didn't want to have to find excuses to not be around the chick if they wound up not getting along. Or if she was one of those passive-aggressive types that had a habit of making snarky, nasty comments whenever Cas wasn't around. There was no way he'd make Cas choose between him and his little sister.

Anna stuck her head around the door, unsure if the bar was still open or not; the placed looked closed. But she knew her brother was in there. She hoped the reason he'd taken so long was because he'd found Dean. But she'd been getting steadily more nervous the longer she was left to wait in the car. The longer Castiel took, the more her nerves frazzled until she'd finally gotten out to investigate.

She couldn't help a smile when she caught sight of her brother, trying to keep himself and the slightly drunken hottie plastered against his front from falling over as they hugged, perched precariously on their bar stools and murmuring unintelligibly to each other. The hug turned into a kiss, both men holding the other's face and smiling even as their lips pressed together.

It was a little awkward, but still endearing, and slightly adorable. And she felt a soft pang in her chest as she watched the pair speak softly, hands caressing and gazes only on each other; she hadn't seen Cas this happy in... too long.

If ever.

She didn't want to interrupt the moment, but the gentle pecks and soft kisses quickly turned heated and headed right into something inappropriate with witnesses around. She felt her face heat, swift and intense, with a blush when she heard a soft moan and saw Dean's hands start to wander. When he started making fumbled (but surprisingly effective) attempts at untucking her brother's shirt, she cleared her throat.

She did it again, louder, when they didn't appear to notice her standing there and hands got more active. She had only a moment to admire Dean's nice, strong looking hands before they disappeared into her brother's waistband. She averted her eyes and coughed obnoxiously loud into her fist, finally getting their attention.

Dean jumped back, yanking his hand out of the back of Cas' pants with a sheepish half smile on his face. He quickly wiped at his face and then wiped his hands on his jeans before offering a hand to Anna when she eased closer. She looked a little wary. He didn't know if it was because he'd just had his hands down her brother's pants or what, though. It probably wasn't the top on anyone's list to see their brother being sexually mauled by an over-eager, drunken idiot.

Even if it had to be a really hot thing to see because they were both hot as hell, if he said so himself. You know, but when it wasn't your brother... Awkward City now, though.

"Uh. Hi. I'm, uh—I'm Dean," he said, stumbling to his feet.

Anna nodded, smiling a little. "Yes, I know." She rolled her eyes at the offered hand and pulled Dean into a hug.

Dean, eventually, got over the shock and hugged Anna back. His breath rushed out with a soft oomph when she squeezed tightly; she was stronger than she looked. He patted her back awkwardly when she lingered, swaying a little bit and rubbing her hands along his back like they were old friends. It was kinda nice. But mostly weird because he didn't know this chick and she was seriously wigging him out with her hugging and not giving his personal space.

Anna stepped back, patted Dean's cheek and gave him another smile. It was tempting to scold the man for his earlier dramatics but he looked so miserable earlier, she just couldn't. Especially not when he stepped back towards Castiel, apparently needing close contact, and slotted their fingers together. Gosh, they were sweet...

"So," she said brightly, making herself comfortable on the stool next to her brother.

Dean groaned softly, shooting a panicked look at Cas. He knew that tone; it preceded an inquisition. He nearly face-palmed when Anna started asking all sorts of embarrassing questions. Sisterly questions that he felt obligated to answer even though he knew Anna was only, like, an hour into her reunion with Cas and really didn't have any damn business asking. But he wasn't gonna say that, not when she looked so serious. He could appreciate her concerns, really. He mostly nodded along, assuring her he cared about Cas and accepting her threats of bodily harm with good grace.

That was what you did for family, after all. It was like a rule or something to threaten castration with gardening equipment to those that even dared to consider hurting loved ones. (And it was clear she'd totally do it; happily and without hesitation or a care for her manicure. Dean learned pretty quick she might be small but a total bad-ass. It was probably a genetic thing—Cas was the same way with his nerdy-ness and adorable faces.)

"You stayin' long?" Dean asked, once Anna seemed satisfied with the impromptu Q and A session. He was glad he hadn't had to hand over his driver's license or old tax forms. For now, Anna seemed content, sipping at a ginger ale Benny gave her at some point before he disappeared again.

Anna smiled, her gaze sliding towards Castiel for a moment. "Yes. Hopefully, I'll be getting a job nearby."

"What?" Castiel was stunned. Anna was moving here? He hadn't heard of this before now. His head cocked a little as he looked at his little sister, trying to figure her motivations out. "Why?"

"I miss you," Anna said to Castiel, with a small, shy shrug. It had become too stressful to be around her parents (and numerous siblings) and she just needed... something else. No, somewhere else. "I figured this was a nice enough town if you were living here. So, I figured—" She shrugged again. "Why not?"

Castiel blinked a few times, trying to absorb the information. "When?"

"Well," Anna said slowly, rolling her lips over her teeth for a moment. She lifted one shoulder as she rubbed her hands down her thighs in a nervous gesture. "If all goes well, by the end of the week."

"Why didn't you say anything sooner?" Castiel demanded, panic setting in. That wasn't enough time to find a decent apartment! He couldn't leave his baby sister to the wilds of a new town! He narrowed his eyes and his lips pursed slightly as he thought. "I've a spare room, you'll stay with me."

Anna smiled, relieved. The sibling-inspired urge to argue was smothered immediately by her brother's insistent tone and no-nonsense expression. And genuine gratitude. "Thank you. It'll be temporary, I promise." Her gaze slid to Dean and she was a little surprised to see him nodding along, his expression matching Castiel's.

She'd almost expected him to pout or say something against her taking up Castiel's time and space. Didn't Dean spend a lot of time with her brother? Castiel had made it sound like they were two steps away from moving in together... "Are you alright with that, Dean?"

"Yeah, 'course," Dean said, surprised she'd ask. He shared a look with Cas, truly confused. Cas just gave him a funny little smile so he looked back at Anna, flapping a hand at her. Family always came first. "Why wouldn't I be?"

Anna felt herself blushing, "Well, I hadn't intended to get in the way—"

Dean scoffed and waved a hand at Anna, making a 'pfffft' sound. "Family ain't ever in the way," he said with a sharp nod, jabbing his finger in the air for emphasis. He grinned when Cas gave him a gushy look that quickly turned heated; apparently Cas liked when he was all understanding and gracious. He had a feeling it would totally be worth what would no doubt lead to a (please god make it temporary) dry-spell on their sex life with the little sister around.

OK, so it would be a little bit of a bummer they couldn't make out like idiots on Cas' couch whenever the urge struck, but little sisters in need of a place to crash totally outranked sex. Even if it kinda sucked...

"Oh," Anna said softly, sharing a warm look with Castiel. She could understand how her brother would go completely stupid over the other man. He was very attractive—inside and out. "Alright, well." She stood, gathering her things. "I think we've stayed up late enough, boys."

Dean and Castiel nodded and stood as well, Cas' hand on Dean's arm slid down to his waist to steady him when the other man wobbled just a little. "C'mon," Castiel murmured, tightening his arm around Dean's waist. "I'll take you home."

"Mmkay," Dean hummed, resting his head on Cas' shoulder for a moment, just going with the wobble because it got Cas all up on his business. He inhaled deeply and stuck his nose in Cas' neck, sniffing again. God, Cas smelled good. He puckered his lips, kissing at the spot right there. He really tried not to whine softly when his face was pushed away before he got a chance to nibble or lick Cas' yummy neck. He was about to complain when he remembered—Anna. Oops. Anna probably wouldn't wanna see him trying to eat her brother.

Again.

"Sorry."

Castiel chuckled softly, patting Dean's hip. "It's quite alright, Dean. I just really don't want to be hauled in for public indecency." He turned towards Anna, unsure where to take her. "Uhm—"

"I'm staying in a hotel at the moment," Anna offered.

Castiel frowned. "No. No, you can stay with me. I've room," he said, maneuvering Dean into his backseat, gently batting away his groping hands. He shifted his hips away when Dean tried to stick his hands in his pockets. "Dean," he chided softly.

"Sorry," Dean muttered, crossing his arms over his chest and tried to not pout. He so wasn't pouting... But he probably was because Cas was looking at him with that fondly exasperated look and Anna looked torn between awkward and amused.

Castiel sighed and tried his best to ignore the plump lower lip pooching out. Damn thing was just aching to be nibbled on... He forced himself to give his sister his full attention. "I insist," he said noticing Anna still looking unsure. Occasionally, her gaze would go to the backseat and he was sure she was looking at a pouting Dean and feeling guilty. Dean was rather persuasive when he was of a mind. But he knew Dean was serious about not wanting to get between family, even if he was being more affectionate and open at the moment.

"Are you sure?" Anna asked, worrying at her bottom lip with her teeth.

"Yes," Castiel said firmly, nodding once and sliding in behind the wheel. He waited until Anna got into the front seat before looking at her and cocked his head to the side, confused. "Did you have luggage?"

"Just a small bag, the one I left at your place. Everything else is in a moving truck," she admitted.

Castiel smiled and reached over to pat her knee. "Well, good. That'll save us time."

"Yeah!" Dean piped up from the back, giving Cas a lop-sided smile when their eyes met in the rear-view mirror. He winked, exaggerating it a little 'cause he was still a bit tipsy. Cas' lips thinned in that 'I don't want to laugh' or 'you're not as adorable as you think, Dean' way and Dean snickered as he flopped down to lay out as best he could on the backseat. Cas' car was tiny (no sexin' in the back of this plastic little thing) but there was enough room if he kept his butt against the door.

They were at Cas' the next second—or maybe he fell asleep—and he was being gently pulled from the backseat. He snuggled into Cas' side, just sober enough to know he was being ridiculous (and a little super-gay) but drunk enough he didn't give a shit. "Can I stay over?" he asked, trying to get his voice into a whisper.

"Yes," Castiel murmured, unlocking the front door. He gestured for Anna to go in first and he helped Dean in. Thankfully, the other man had a bit of his mobility back, so it was only difficult because Dean got very handsy, very quickly. He eased Dean onto one of the kitchen stools and settled his hands on Dean's shoulders. "Stay?" Dean nodded obediently and he turned towards Anna.

Anna was considering changing her mind, a hotel wouldn't kill her for one night. Before she could mention it, though, Cas was nodding his head at her and leading her down a hallway. There were four doors and Cas pointed to each as they passed, letting her know where the bathroom, Gabriel's room, his room and the guest room were. "I almost forgot you had a son," she admitted in a whisper. She was pretty sure Gabriel had only been weeks old when she'd seen her nephew last. She wished she'd had pictures but waiting until tomorrow to meet the little boy in person would have to suffice.

"I do," Castiel said, smiling softly at the mention of Gabriel. "He's staying with a friend tonight but he'll be here, most likely with Sam, bright and early tomorrow." He got a set of fresh sheets from the linen closet and Anna was quick to help him get the bed made. He smoothed the edges of the comforter down and sat on the edge of the bed, peering up at Anna. "I am glad you're here, Anna. I apologize it's been so... chaotic."

Anna grinned and settled on the bed next to Cas. She patted his leg and laughed softly. "It's fine. It would be weird if it wasn't crazy, you know?" A family as large as theirs, chaos was just how it was. She looked around the room, noting it was furnished simply. Cas suddenly stood, getting to his feet with a soft sound like he'd just remembered something important. She nearly giggled when she remembered he'd left a half-asleep, half-drunk boyfriend precariously perched on one of his kitchen stools. "Well, thanks for this Cas," she said, standing and grabbing Cas into another hug. It was a little stiff but not as awkward as the first one had started.

"Yes. You're welcome." Castiel pulled away. "Good night."

Anna barely got to wish him the same before Cas was gone, the door closing with a soft click behind him. She looked around the room again and sighed softly, nervous but otherwise happy with her decision.

: -:- :

A few days later, Dean was helping Anna move into her new apartment. The place was nice; a third floor in a good neighborhood. He found it not-so-secretly adorable to watch Cas go all 'protective big brother' and make sure Anna's apartment met every requirement for safety, comfort and proper location (close enough frequent visits would happen but far enough away to hopefully keep 'drop in' visits to a minimum).

Honestly, it kinda surprised Dean they were already moving Anna's stuff in. In his experience, 'a few days' usually meant something closer to a couple weeks. He was glad it hadn't taken Anna that long to find a place, though. Anna was really nice but an effective cock-block.

The boys could be completely fooled by their 'adult sleep-over' excuse when they saw Dean come out of Cas' room, but Anna wasn't gonna be fooled by that like a 5-year-old. And the thought of making waffles in front of Anna, all marked up and aching in all the good spots so wasn't gonna happen.

Cas had called him a prude, even though he'd been smiling warmly and laughing under his breath. Yeah, Dean sorta agreed because normally he wouldn't give a flying fuck about that sorta thing... But this was family—estranged-because-Cas-was-gay family. It seemed the wrong move to be that open and blatant about it (he wouldn't stop Cas from being stupidly adorable with kisses all that that other couple-y junk he secretly adored for anyone, though). So far, Anna seemed cool about the whole thing, but he didn't want to press their luck. She twitched a little when they did anything past a chaste kiss or sappy hand-holding. And he really didn't wanna fuck things up for Cas (or Anna) just when they got started.

So, yeah, apparently he was a huge prudey dork. He had even threatened Cas he wouldn't put out for an entire week before grimacing at himself. Because—Holy shit. Really? He hadn't meant it, not really; he just needed Cas to stop groping him and being all handsy for 5 whole seconds. But he couldn't take it back once he'd said it. Especially not after Cas chuckled lowly, got that demented sex face, and tried to grab his ass as if he didn't believe Dean could hold out. Like he really thought Dean wasn't a man of his word, the cocky asshole.

It had proved to be really fucking hard but he was a stubborn enough to hold out just to make a point. And it wasn't until he was sliding the last box onto Anna's kitchen table (some gross flat thing from IKEA) did he realize they probably could've just gone to his place for alone time.

Not that he would've wanted to leave Anna all by herself in Cas' big house. And sticking her with the boys seemed kinda mean since Anna was still getting used to being around a pair of energetic, insanely smart 5-going-on-30-year olds that were their mini-mes. Gabriel thought she was almost as cool as Bobby and he was pretty sure his worshipful staring and almost obsessive need to play with her long hair freaked the woman out a little.

"Thanks, Dean," Anna said, breaking Dean from his thoughts.

He smiled and nodded, wiping his dusty hands off on his jeans. "You're welcome," he said, for what felt like the hundredth time. He was able to keep from rolling his eyes but it was touch-and-go for a few seconds. (He'd have to tell Cas later about his superman-like restraint—it was bound to be worth something good, like a hand-job. Or a home-made pie. He wondered about himself when he realized he'd take either with equal gusto.) His smile relaxed as he tried not to make it too pervy.

Because now that Anna was in her own place, Cas had a few promises to make good on.

"It's really no problem, Anna."

"Still, I appreciate it," Anna said with a small smile and shake of her head. She'd tried to explain to Dean she just wasn't used to such things as guilt-free assistance and no-strings-attached favors but she could tell Dean just didn't get it. Which was probably a good thing and she fought the cynical thoughts that Dean was just waiting for a more convenient time for payback. Dean just shook his head at her, smiling a little and she fidgeted, unsure what to say now. She hadn't spent a lot of time alone with Dean—Castiel was always there, acting as a buffer of sorts. She wasn't uncomfortable, per se, just unsure how to approach Dean one-on-one.

She looked around the room for a moment, thinking of something to say. "You want something to drink?"

"Sure." Dean shrugged and headed into the kitchen. He would prefer a beer but Anna didn't have any, and made a face like she was morally against hops and goodness or something when he offered to pick some up.

Anna blinked, rooted to the spot with surprise for a full 3 seconds before her manners kicked in and she was rushing past Dean to get a glass from the cabinet (recently put there by her and Dean) before he could. She glared playfully at the man, only half-offended he'd had the nerve to get himself a drink in her home. "Water or juice?"

"Water's fine," Dean said through a chuckle, holding up his hands and backing off. Anna had a similar 'I will smite you with my eyes alone' sorta look that Cas got when he was pissed or feeling righteously indignant. While on Cas it either turned him on (when aimed at someone else) or made him a little wary (when directed at him), with Anna it just made him want to pinch her cheek and coo at her. Of course, he was pretty sure Anna would probably punch him in the stomach if he tried.

He had to remember to keep her and Jo from ever meeting... those two joining forces would ruin the world. Like, Apocalyptic shit would go down, he was sure of it.

Dean side-eyed the red-head as she fiddled with tap, the water hissing and spitting as the air worked out of the pipes. He reconsidered the water when it came out a dark rust color.

"Oh! Ew," Anna said, wrinkling her nose up and pulling the glass away from the stream of water just in time to avoid it being filled with cloudy, rust-tinged water. It was already starting to run clear but she still eyed it dubiously. "Juice it is," she muttered.

She checked the glass to make sure it had stayed clean and dry and went towards the 'fridge. Dean tried to refuse and she leveled a glare at him, making a point of pouring the juice for him and pushing it towards his hand until it closed around the glass.

Dean huffed softly and relented. He settled at the table with his juice (gross—tomato?) and looked around. The kitchen was still pretty bare, but once he got the table he was making for Anna finished and all the boxes were unpacked, it would look better. Less barren and hopefully a bit more homey. He swirled the juice and watched the red liquid slosh up and coat the glass and tried to keep the revulsion off his face as it oozed back down in a gritty wash.

He was antsy to go, but he didn't want to be rude or disappear if Anna still needed a hand. Bobby had the boys and Cas wouldn't be done with his paperwork for at least another half-hour or so. So he had some free time but he was still holding out hope Cas would finish early.

It had been a little longer than he liked since they'd gotten naked together. And he was really looking forward to having the chance to fix that.

"Who do I call about that?" Anna said, eyes flicking towards the sink. She pulled a face at it, lamenting the fact she would most likely have to put off the long soak in the tub she'd planned on later.

Dean shrugged. "I guess if it's still funky after you let all the taps run, you call that Steve guy." He and Cas went with Anna when she signed the lease and the landlord seemed like an OK enough guy; he hadn't made any pervy faces at Anna and Cas had only squinted menacingly at him twice. He patted his breast pocket and fished the guy's business card out with his index and middle finger, passing it over to Anna.

"Okay," she said slowly, idly running her fingertips along the card's edge as she studied the information on it. She flicked the card against her nails and looked at Dean for a few moments. He was just swirling the juice around instead of drinking it and he had a slightly unsettled air about him. She nearly asked if he was OK before she realized he was anxious to go, but being too polite to leave without being 'done'.

She made a point of looking around and sighing. "Well, time to get unpacked and make this place home." She stifled a laugh when Dean's eyes widened a little and flicked towards the door, looking panicked. He settled, a resigned set to his shoulders, and she wanted to pinch his cheek. "You mind seeing yourself out?"

Dean was up and by the front door in three strides. "You sure you don't need help?"

"No," Anna said, smirking a little as she pointedly looked at Dean's hand on the knob. She made a shooing gesture, "I'll be fine." Her 'thanks again!' was addressed to a closed door, Dean closing it firmly but quietly behind himself as he practically sprinted out. She'd be offended if she didn't find it so adorable.

Dean nodded and bolted, practically running to his car as he fished his keys out with one hand and tapped at his phone with the other. He nearly overstepped the curb and landed on his ass, but this was important enough to risk a mild concussion...

done at Anna's. u still workin?

He slid behind the steering wheel, slid the key in the ignition, and waited for an answer. A 'yes' meant he went to Bobby's, get the boys or maybe hang out and mooch dinner until Cas joined them. A 'no' meant he went to Cas' and they got reacquainted with the closest available flat surface.

Either way, he was antsy and feeling a low grade warmth hum through his body, right in his chest. Cas' response would dictate if it went up (yeah, all sappy like) to his heart or... lower. He nearly jumped when his phone went off, the ding-buzz tearing him from happy thoughts of a bendy Cas and putting inappropriate memories in his memory foam.

No. Get here. Now.

Dean grinned as he tossed his phone on the seat, turned the key and made haste to get to Cas. He was practically tingling with anticipation. He loved when the little shit got all bossy; it only meant good things. His phone buzzed across the seat and he made himself wait to check it as soon as he hit a red light. He might've been a bit too enthusiastic with the gas because he had to slam on the brakes, catching his phone with reflexes alone before it could slide off the seat and get lost on the floor.

And he was glad he did when he checked his phone, eyes widening as he read the new text from Cas. Was... Was Cas sexting him? As he read the message over (and then the new one, dear god) he was pretty sure he was being sexted. And it was actually fucking hot, too. In a he-was-freakin'-turned-on-when-Cas-just-fucking-breathed kinda way.

I'm getting myself ready for you, Dean. Dean read it twice; making sure he was reading that right. Oh yeah; he was. It was almost embarrassing how quickly blood stampeded south and he nearly whimpered aloud. He almost dropped his phone when it buzzed as the next text came: My fingers aren't adequate, Dean. I need you and I anticipate your swift arrival to assist me.

Dean stared at his phone, kind of amazed he was turned on by the sext attempt. Cas was actually pretty good with dirty talk. He'd just use that fucking sex voice and narrate what he wanted to do (or what he was going to do) and that shit just fucking worked. Between Cas deep voice rumbling and vibrating along that sensitive spot along his neck and the filthy things he said (that weren't filthy but kinda were at the same time), it never failed to get his motor going from 0 to 60 in no time. And god help him when Cas used those lips and/or hands along with his filthy words.

And this? He actually looked down and poked at the bulge in his jeans. Yeah; this was workin', too, because he got a very vivid image of what Cas was probably doing: laying there, alternately working himself open and texting him with the hand not all sticky-slick with lube and pre-come. Yup, it was really doing it for him. He snapped out of his happy-fun-sexy-time thoughts when someone honked their horn behind him. He made sure the coast was clear before he hit the gas, middle finger extended merely out of habit, and got back on track.

Home. To Cas. A fuckin' ready-and-anticipating-you-Dean Cas. He pressed the heel of his palm against his zipper, hissing softly through his teeth. Christ, he was gonna end up wrapping his baby around a damn tree if he didn't think with the bigger head and focus on something that wasn't thoughts of Cas, lube, and naked. He came to a loud stop in Cas' driveway, clambering out of the car like he'd had too much whiskey and nearly tripped in his haste.

He paused to collect himself, straightening his jacket and taking a deep breath. He was so much cooler than this... besides, whacking himself into a concussion was so not in his plans. He took another deep breath and calmly walked up to the front door, using his key with deliberate movements. OK, so maybe his hand was shaking a little and he was two seconds away from dancing like Sammy when he needed the bathroom, but c'mon; Cas was right there. Waiting.

Dean rushed through the front door, kicked off his shoes and stripped as he went and left a messy trail of denim, cotton and plaid to Cas' bedroom. As advertised, Cas was waiting for him; laying on the bed, posed in a way Dean was pretty sure was meant to be arousing. And it was, even if it was kinda awkward, too. Cas was sprawled, naked, and kind of obscenely posed for his viewing pleasure. He toed off his socks, the only bit of clothing left on his body and stood motionless at the foot of the bed, gaze firmly on Cas' wandering hands.

He watched, feeling almost breathless with how aroused he was as Cas basically just laid there and fondled himself, idly stroking his fully hard dick and occasionally palming pebbled nipples as he licked at his bottom lip in a way that should probably look over-exaggerated but was stupidly fuckhot. Christ. He nearly stroked himself to relieve a bit of the frustrated tension but he'd probably go off too damn quick because he was so worked up already.

Castiel merely gazed back at Dean, the corner of his mouth pulling up a little as he took in Dean's reaction. It was worth the awkward position he was in and the completely wanton way he was situated. He wasn't too pleased he was left to touch himself, though, since Dean appeared to be stunned immobile.

He tilted his head a little and peered up at Dean through narrowed eyes. "Hello, Dean."

"Fuck, Cas," Dean breathed out, fighting the urge to shudder. Or jump on the bed like an over-eager idiot that's never seen a sexy ass naked man before. Cas smirked at him, eyebrows bouncing lewdly because he was apparently doing his mind reading thing again and well aware of what Dean was thinking. He swallowed thickly when Cas' rolled onto his back, elbows propping himself up as those gorgeous legs shifted apart. His eyes were immediately drawn down and he groaned softly when he caught a flash of bright blue.

He swallowed noisily when he realized what he was looking at; that damn bright blue plug Cas got on a 'whim' last week when Dean finally got the nerve to visit a sex toy shop with him. For as much sex as he'd had, he couldn't ever remember being in a place like that before. It had been... educational as well as embarrassing as fuck. Until he saw all the awesome stuff. He had no room for embarrassment once he started looking around the place, amazed at all the textures, colors and (dear god) sizes and shapes around him.

And he was even more appreciative now that he saw Cas putting that thing to good use.

Dean idly wondered if it had actually been a whim at all as he kneeled on the bed and crawled towards Cas, gaze glued to the where Cas was stretched by that piece of blue rubber. It was shiny, both with the newness of the rubber and the shine of lube. And holy shit, this was really going to happen... He was vaguely aware of his own dick, hard and heavy between his legs, but mostly he was just aware of Cas—naked and spread out like the best buffet ever.

He almost wanted to complain, maybe whine about not being the one to open Cas up. He really liked to watch muscles clench around his fingers, lube drippy and messy as he wriggled and pressed in and up in the way he'd mastered. He was yanked down into a messy kiss as soon as he got close enough, Cas' hands no longer rubbing himself but on him, one hand fisted in his hair and the other grabbing at his ass. He just dropped on top of Cas with a pleasured needy grunt and went along for the ride.

Dean touched any part he could reach without pulling away, stroking down a taut flank, down Cas' lithe thigh as far as he could reach and across tensing abdominals. He moaned into the kiss, moving against Cas and pulling away so he could inhale sharply at the pleasurable feeling of Cas hot and naked against him. He was shifted, pulled and moved into position; spread out on his back, Cas straddling him, when he blinked his eyes open.

He groaned softly when Cas did that hip thing, rolling and swiveling so their bodies slid against each other. He lifted a hand, ready to stroke and smear the beads of pre-come all over, but Cas shook his head and he compromised with sliding his hands up and squeezing along Cas' thighs. He wanted to complain; he wanted to touch—right now. He'd beg if he had to. Any thoughts past 'fuck yeah, Cas is naked and on top of me' just poofed right out of his head as he watched Cas lift himself and his hand disappeared behind his back. He was vaguely aware of Cas' other hand, splayed out on his belly for balance, but even that was a distant thing compared to the feel of Cas slick ass rubbing along his dick and a hand squeezing his thigh.

"Ready? Because I am," Castiel panted out. Dean nodded eagerly with a guttural moan. He shifted just enough to pop the plug out with a slight grimace; he yanked a bit too fast in his haste, but it wasn't too bad. He slid up Dean's body, enjoying the way Dean arched up into him and made a soft little noise in the back of his throat as his slick cleft dragged along Dean's erection. He might've exaggerated the need to wiggle into position, mostly just enjoying himself as he watched the man under him with breathless pleasure as Dean writhed, groaned and just looking generally debauched and so damn needy.

Dean settled his hands around Cas' hips, mostly just for something to hold on to. Even if he was the one about to slide into Cas, he knew Cas was the one calling the shots. He was so cool with that—as long as Cas got a freakin' move on and got goin'. He didn't complain when Cas slid up and down his body a few more times, kissing him hot and messy while grinding his slick-sticky ass along his dick. It felt pretty damn good, really. He felt Cas' shudder and moan at the slow drag and occasional catch on his rim.

"Cas," he murmured, waiting as patiently as he could. Cas just looked down at him, holding himself up with splayed hands on his chest as those fucking hips moved in that rolling/circling thing he did. He held his breath when Cas lifted a hand off his chest and it disappeared behind Cas' back again. A slick hand was fisting him a moment later and his eyes rolled back in his head because even Cas loosely fisting him to get him all slippery felt amazing right now. His feet slid up the bed, legs slightly bent at the knees, and he forced his eyes open when he felt himself finally pressing against Cas and slip inside.

The hot, slick, tight pressure was awesome and Dean could really see the perks of being in a committed relationship when it meant condoms could stay in the drawer and he could feel every damn inch of Cas clenching tight and perfect as the other man slid down. Cas hissed out his name through clenched teeth, a soft sob breaking through his lips as he slid all the way down, until their bodies were pressed together. He could feel himself literally trembling with the effort of laying still, a death grip on Cas' hips, because he knew Cas needed a moment to adjust.

He watched Cas breathing through his nose, little puffs and gasps on the exhale, his eyes closed with his head tilted back. He stroked along Cas' thighs, needing to move something, needing to touch.

Castiel slowly opened his eyes, feeling tingly and a little drunk on the sharp pleasure swiftly replacing discomfort, and looked down at Dean, smiling a little. As the discomfort slowly ebbed away, he had to smile at Dean and his patience. Or more, accurately, Dean as his compassion; he knew what that first shock of pleasure-pain-stretch felt like and was doing his best to give him the time he needed to get comfortable enough to move. He rocked gently and leaned forward, groaning softly at the shift, pressing their chests together and just feeling for a moment.

When Cas got close enough, Dean couldn't help himself and quickly wrapped his arms around the other man's lower back, squeezing their bodies even closer together and feeling himself shift slightly inside Cas. He couldn't help the smirk at the breathy 'fuck' Cas moaned out, either. The 'u' drawn out in a deep, moan that made him actually twitch inside Cas. He really liked hearing Cas let go and curse and say the weirdest shit in bed. (He still didn't know where the fuck 'assbutt' came from that one time and he probably would've laughed if he hadn't been three seconds away from coming.) He groaned his own 'fuck' when Cas' fingers pinched at his nipples and Cas was all over him, kissing him breathless before leaving a trail of biting kisses down his neck and collarbone.

Shit, he was gonna look like he got mauled by some wild animal and he couldn't care. Not when Cas did that gentle rocking motion again, hot breath panting across his neck with the effort and pleasure in between nips and licks.

"Fuck, Cas," Dean gasped when Cas shifted and rolled his hips with a little more force. It was just enough to press all the right spots for Cas but it wasn't quite enough for him, he was left panting and hanging onto his control by a thread. But the good news was he figured Cas was ready to start riding him like a buckin' bronco any second each time Cas moved a little harder and shifted his knees. "Oh god, stop teasing me you little shit. Move?"

Castiel didn't even answer, just leaned up, fixed his knees for maximum thrusting ease and started to move. Dean groaned and went limp, limbs twitching and star-fishing on the bed as he moved in a slow but hard glide, enjoying the wonderful, full slide of Dean inside him. By the time his thighs started to burn with exertion, Dean had apparently recovered from the pleasurable over-load and was moving under him, hands squeezing into his thighs rhythmically in time with his movements.

He didn't protest when large, strong hands slid up and clamp around his hips and he was suddenly no longer in any sort of control under Dean's thrusts. He tipped to the side and Dean was quick to shift, moving and arranging him with that delicious strength onto his back and continuing the thrusting motion of his body without breaking his pace. His knees end up bent over the insides of Dean's elbows and the angle was perfect.

Dean eyes kept closing with blissful heated pleasure, even though he wanted to watch Cas gasp and pant, his face all scrunched up as he tilted his hips just right to have him nailing his sweet spot with a guttural screaming moan that made his fucking toes curl into the sheets and his hips stutter. He slapped a hand on the back of Cas' thighs, keeping him pinned; he didn't wanna lose that perfect angle. Not when Cas made that fucking noise again and fingers dug into the meat of his ass, pulling him closer.

"Dean. Oh, fuck—aah!—right there."

Dean grunted when Cas' thighs clamp around his hips like a vise as Cas thrust back. He was mumbling other things; soft, loving words between 'fuck's and 'shit's that should've seemed vulgar but only made Cas moan, arch closer and kiss him, all urgency and love. Their fingers slotted together and he slid Cas' arm up over his head, using the leverage to his advantage.

It had only been a week apart, but he'd missed this, missed Cas and being close, hot and intimate. He was pretty sure Cas was feeling just as desperate as they worked each other into a frenzy as they got closer, pawing and mouthing at each other. He was really glad the boys were out because they hadn't even bothered to be quiet and he kinda hoped the neighbors didn't hear them.

"Dean," Castiel breathed out, tightening all over. Dean just grunted back, hips stuttering as his head dropped down and he mouthed desperately at his neck. He felt Dean's hand slide between their bodies, his calloused palm stroking him only twice before he came with an embarrassingly loud scream before he muffled it in Dean's shoulder. He could feel Dean's fingers tighten around his hips, pushing hard, pulling him close and burying himself deep. He moaned, the subtle pulse and expansion as Dean came. It was quite the experience without the barrier of latex.

He groaned softly when Dean moved his hips, rolling them up and sliding out, leaving him clenching at nothing. Not his favorite part...

Dean practically collapsed, feeling pleasantly heavy and boneless. He was probably smushing Cas under him, but there were no complaints; just Cas making that contented humming sound and clamping his limbs around him weakly and nuzzling into his neck with wet lazy kisses.

He managed to get his arms to move, enveloping Cas and hearing the other man gasp softly at the gentle touch. Cas' hips twitched weakly, brushing their wet cocks together and making them both shudder with oversensitivity. He trailed a long line of wet, slow kisses up Cas neck and into his hair, breathing him in deep. He found Cas' mouth again, kissed him slow and lazy, sated and happy. Maybe trying to make Cas understand just how perfect he was with each press of lips, and gentle swirl of his tongue.

Castiel kissed back just as lazily, just as adoringly, humming happily as Dean's body caged him pleasantly. He could feel Dean shift his weight, just enough he wasn't crushed but still pleasantly pinned under Dean's firm, warm weight. He was pretty sure Dean was murmuring softly with each gentle, sleepy kiss to his neck and jaw; 'amazing', 'awesome' and even a 'love you'.

Dean didn't want Cas to think that he was just saying it because he was sated and blissed-out after awesome sex. So, he decided to show him instead, to let his body do the talking. He didn't know it could be like this. He didn't know that it was possible to feel like he was being taken apart, welded back together just from being near Cas, held and loved by him. And since he was feeling particularly sappy, he could imagine Cas had managed to fill in those little cracks in his heart and spirit he didn't even know were there until they'd been fixed.

He sighed softly, content, warm and half-asleep as Cas' fingers worked through his hair, rubbing and scratching lightly against his scalp. Lips brushing along his neck where his pulse was finally evening out. "Stoppit," he mumbled, getting more comfortable and moving into Cas' hand anyway.

"No," Castiel said lightly, getting his other hand involved now and working at the nape of Dean's neck in tandem with the one in his hair. He knew they had to get the boys, but he didn't want the wonderful moment to end just yet. And a warm, limp, happy Dean was something to be savored and cherished. He knew Bobby wouldn't mind watching the boys if they slipped into a nap.

Dean jerked himself into awareness, whining under his breath that he had to move, get up off Cas and go do... stuff. Mature adult, parental stuff. He was tempted to just call Bobby and see if the older man wouldn't mind keeping the boys overnight. It was nature's way to sleep after a bone-melting orgasm and he shouldn't try to go against nature. Or something. He couldn't even think of a good excuse besides he just didn't wanna move.

"Alright," Castiel sighed softly. He didn't relinquish his hold on Dean at all, keeping his legs around Dean's and his hands happily occupied. Until Dean wiggled and slid his hands under him, levering himself up and off enough they could gaze at each other.

Dean looked down, words filling his mind, his heart, aching to get out, to let Cas know... everything. How much he was wanted. Loved. He couldn't say it though, not even now. His breathing a little heavier than normal, heart racing at the raw, open adoration he saw in Cas face, awed. To see his feelings, his heart, so plainly. It made him want to spill guts out in a way he'd never felt before, make the love confession that had been on the tip of his tongue since their first kiss.

Maybe even before.

He settled for another kiss, unhurried and sweet, stroking along Cas' face and neck as he did so. He pulled back, nuzzling Cas' nose with his, and grinned. Cas just gazed up at him dopily, blue eyes dark, unfocused and dilated. Awesome. He pecked another kiss to still slack lips and carefully rolled off Cas and the bed, headed for the bathroom. "C'mon, I don't think we should be getting the boys looking like extras in All That Jizz," he said over his shoulder.

Castiel stared after Dean's bare ass for until he disappeared into the bathroom, then scrambled from the bed, quick to follow, curious about Dean's knowledge of gay pornos and eager to get his hands all over Dean again. Slick, wet and soapy was one of his favorite ways to have Dean. He knew they'd have to focus on cleaning but that was OK. His knees were still a little rubbery and he didn't think he'd have the energy for much else past some kisses as they washed the other's back and gave each other shampoo mohawks.

: -:- :

Castiel walked into an endearing scene; Dean and the boys, air guitaring and dancing around to loud music. Much too loud music, but their enjoyment of it made it easier to ignore the too-many decibel level. As was becoming habit when in Dean's presence, he went through a swift (almost dizzying), full body reaction:

Heat of arousal. (Dean jumping around, inhibited and joyous was surprisingly arousing. As were the man's dance moves—lots of hip movements he was usually only privy to in private.) Warmth of affection. Tight, heavy, but pleasant feeling blanketing everything else.

He watched as Gabriel wiggled his small body in euphoric glee to the music, tiny butt wiggling in rhythm to the music. Sam was right there with him, hair flopping around as he nodded his head in time to the music and wiggled right along-side Gabriel. He smiled when Dean laughed brightly, encouraging Gabriel to play along during the guitar solo part of the song, demonstrating how to do it properly.

Hopefully, Gabriel wouldn't emulate Dean exactly; Dean appeared to be playing his pelvis and an invisible partner (vigorously) more than an imaginary instrument. Strangely compelling.

They all raised their hands at the same time, fisting them in with their eyes closed, now singing along with enthusiasm. "Beelzebub has a devil put aside for me. For m-e-e-e. For me-e-e-e-e-e!" Castiel couldn't hold in the snicker as they all tried to hold the high note and then started flailing around, heads thrashing like maniacs.

He smiled and lifted his hand in a small wave when Dean looked up and saw him. He fully expected Dean to be embarrassed, to stop what he was doing and maybe turn the music off. But he was pleasantly surprised (and nearly knocked over at the fierce surge of that pleasant HotWarmTight feeling) when only Dean grinned, winked and pumped his hips towards him—the gyrating more playful than lewd, though. There was indeed a pink tinge to Dean's cheeks, but he didn't know if it was from exertion or from being caught out being a complete, loveable goof with the boys.

Not that it mattered. It warmed him thoroughly, regardless of the cause.

He didn't recognize the song, but he was being pointed at as Dean sang along.

The song ended and Dean turned towards Cas. He was a little embarrassed to be caught out but there was no way he was gonna stop when Sam and Gabe were totally grooving on the song with him.

Plus, the look Cas gave him (and was still giving him) left little room for embarrassment after that first hot, tingly surge when he was first caught out. He'd nearly popped a boner in front of the boys and had to turn away from the sexy asshole's intense (and totally inappropriate) eye-fucking a few times.

Not that he was complaining...

Much.

"Cas," Dean whined softly after the boys had run off to Sam's room when the song changed. Apparently, they were too cool for Skynyrd. He nearly shook his head in exasperation that the boys; hopefully he had some time to teach them all about the good music. He shut the iPod off and eased closer to Cas, a little annoyed Cas wasn't already plastered to his body and kissing the hell out of him. His gaze darted down to where Cas' hands were laying placidly at his sides, like there was nothing better they should be doing.

Castiel raised his eyebrows. "Yes, Dean?"

"Dammit," Dean muttered, still affected by the stupidest things. How did Cas just saying his name still affect him? How the hell did it still, somehow, manage to shoot heat right down his body and straight to his dick? He stepped closer to the other man, their toes nearly touching. Cas was giving him that heated look that usually meant his mouth would be busy really soon. Dean cocked a lop-sided grin at him. "Hi."

Castiel smiled back and leaned in for a kiss. He gently cupped Dean's face, making a soft hum of pleasure when Dean wrapped an arm around his waist and pulled them closer together. He intended the kiss to stay sweet (the boys were only a room away, after all) but it turned heated fairly quickly.

Dean moaned into Cas' mouth as hands slid down his sides and around to his back, ending up on his ass. Cas squeezed, just hard enough to make him groan and pull away to pant out a few breathes before diving back in, tongue first. He made an embarrassing choking moan when Cas' fingers dug in, pressing against the seam of his jeans and right into the cleft of his ass. He couldn't keep himself from grinding into Cas, the rhythmic press against his body felt too damn good. He eventually remembered the boys were close-by and sexing Cas up against the wall right now wasn't a good idea.

He pulled away, pecking a few kisses to Cas' lips as he did. "So." He eyed Cas' casual outfit and raised his eyebrows. The man looked good in jeans and should definitely wear them more often. "What's up?"

"Camping," Castiel said proudly, standing taller and throwing his shoulders back a little. He'd nearly forgotten with all the... distractions.

Dean snorted softly, snickering. Until he realized Cas was serious. "Dude," he muttered, raising an eyebrow with incredulity (and a little skepticism). But Cas only gazed back at him, looking serene and a little expectant. "Camping?" Cas nodded, eyes slightly narrowing at his tone. Yup, Cas was totally serious. Dammit; he hated camping. But Cas was looking so damn pleased and hopeful, he couldn't—Ugh. Fuck. He was going to go freakin' camping. He huffed a short laugh and rubbed at the back of his head, shaking it a little. "Oh. Uh. Yeah, okay. Let's go camping."

"Do you not like camping?" Castiel asked, not at all fooled by Dean's falsely cheery tone. He gently ran his hands along Dean's chest, watching his hands smooth along the plaid fabric and feeling the warm firmness of muscle. He was nearly distracted again. "I've never been and Gabriel has asked about it. Numerous times, in fact. I figured, if we all went..." he trailed off, glad he was looking at Dean's chest and hoping the embarrassing flush on his cheeks wasn't as noticeable as it felt.

Dean leaned forward, trying to make out the end part that Cas mumbled. Cas didn't usually mumble. "What?"

"If we all went, make it a family thing," Castiel repeated, louder this time. He could feel Dean's chest moving in an odd rhythm and he realized he was being laughed at! "Why is that funny?" he asked, narrowing his eyes. He didn't understand which part of what he said was humorous.

"Nothing," Dean said after he'd gotten control over himself again. He felt too-warm. Tingly. Sort of like he was breathing through stuffing for a second. And it had nothing to do with the inappropriate giggle-fit and everything to do with Cas and his freakin' gorgeous face and those heart-felt words about being a family. "Seriously, Cas. Nothing. I'm just—I think it's awesome you think we're a family."

Castiel nodded slowly. Now he understood the laughing; Dean tended to laugh at inappropriate times when he was feeling overwhelmed or awkward. It was endearing, really, once he realized Dean wasn't mocking him. Dean was smiling now, eyes warm and crinkling in the corners. He could tell Dean was trying not to be 'mushy' but the other man was failing pretty spectacularly. It was wonderful. "Yes," he said slowly, trying not to show the 'you lovely idiot' he was thinking. "Of course I do."

"I do, too!" Dean added in before Cas could narrow his eyes and shoot laser beams from them. He wanted to groan, lament the fact he was in for a completely sappy moment, but he'd gotten better with them. Especially since Cas tended to 'reward' him for being a complete girl with very manly hand-jobs or something. He gave Cas a soft smile and leaned in for a kiss, keeping it soft and sweet. Cas beamed at him, giving him a huge gummy smile and it was totally worth the risk of growing boobs for that. "So. We got camping gear?"

Castiel cleared his throat and forced his brain to re-engage. "Some. I borrowed a few things from Bobby."

"Bobby?" Dean asked, snickering. It made sense; no one else they knew would be nutty enough to have camping gear. He still didn't know what the older man saw in going out in the woods, hunting, twice a year. The grumpy ass never brought anything back besides hangovers and a sore back from sleeping outside. "Man, we gotta check that stuff for spiders or something. Who knows what sorta creepy shit is living in his basement." Cas merely nodded, like he was being completely serious, and he laughed and gave him another kiss.

Of course, the boys thought camping was going to be the most awesome thing ever. The hooting, fist pumps and overall chaos was expected and it made Cas grin at him, almost a smug expression like he knew it would go over so well. Dean still had reservations; roughing it never sounded like fun to him. He liked trivial things like beds, toilets and TVs. But he'd go along with it since Cas and the boys were so gung-ho about it. He was outnumbered, and completely unable to even look at three—three, for fuck's sake—puppy-eyes in various colors. The manipulative assholes. So, fine. He was just gonna zip it and hope they never had to do this shit again.

Dean packed up Cas' car with whatever gear they had, smothering the urge to laugh as Cas ticked items off on an actual check list as he supervised everything that got put in the car. They'd need to pick up a few things before they got going, but they should have room if they stuffed the cooler on the seat between the boys' boosters.

By the time they got to the campsite, the tents up (Gabe and Sam practically vibrating with excitement they got their own) and the boys fairly cleaned off of s'mores gunk so they wouldn't stick to their sleeping bags, Dean was pretty much over camping.

His ass hurt from sitting on tree stumps and rocks and dirt. The boys both got poison ivy on their legs (thankfully not anywhere else) because the novelty of pissing in the woods every 10 minutes had not worn off. His hands were still sticky from the stupid marshmallows (most burned beyond being edible by anyone other than Gabe and Sammy). There was nothing to do but talk (How many ghost stories was he supposed to know, anyway?) because Cas refused all forms of electronic entertainment. (All cell phones were locked in the glove-box was for emergencies only. Dean was kindasortanotreally considering falling down and breaking something to get out of the whole mess.)

And the topper to a craptastic day? The single sleeping bag he saw laying on a slowly deflating air-mattress when he crawled into their tent. What the hell? Did Cas expect one of them to sleep in the car or something? It might be more comfortable, but, dammit, he'd actually looked forward to snuggling up with Cas. Until they'd actually gotten then, he'd figured they could be complete dorks, sneaking off to have sex outdoors and then snuggle under the stars or something.

Dean could admit he was cranky and anything past snuggling would probably end up horribly. The way the day had been going, one of them would end up lost, eaten by a freakin' bear or poison ivy all over their junk. He gave the single bag the stink-eye, frowning at it like it had personally offended him. Son of a bitch, he shoulda brought some whiskey...

Castiel crawled into the tent behind Dean, playfully smacking the other man's bent over rear as he did so. Dean glared over his shoulder at him and he settled back on his heels as he raised his eyebrows, taken aback by the look and Dean's overall unhappy demeanor. "What's wrong, Dean?"

Dean grunted with annoyance and rose up from his hands and knees to knee-walk into the tent, glaring petulantly at the sleeping bag. Single. One sleeping bag. "What the hell, man? Weren't there enough sleeping bags?" he asked, looking around, hands on his hips. Maybe there was another stuffed in the corner or something...

"No. Just the one," Castiel said brightly, sidling closer and wigging his eyebrows at Dean. His hand dropped before he could grope at Dean, his good humor fading when Dean only continued to frown, gaze flicking between him and the lone sleeping bag every so often.

Dean huffed and massaged at his temples. "What the hell, man?" he grumbled again. He had been looking forward to just wrapping himself around Cas, going to sleep, and hopefully getting the camping trip that much closer to being over and done with.

"I thought we could share," Castiel admitted, confused and growing a little uncomfortable when Dean's scowl didn't budge. He squirmed a little, starting to regret his earlier decision when Dean flopped down on his butt and continued to look at him like he'd forgotten his head at home. He waved his hands around helplessly, feeling flustered and increasingly foolish. "You know—Be romantic."

Dean closed his eyes, rubbing at them, and exhaled slowly. Great. Now he felt like a complete dick. A giant dick that didn't deserve someone that would do something so adorable, dorky as hell but (yeah, he could admit it) sweet. Even if it was a bit... off, it was still sweet. He couldn't fault Cas' romantic intentions, even if they were short-sighted.

"Oh." He opened his eyes and slowly shook his head, a smile growing on his face despite himself. He gently grabbed at Cas' arm, hating to see that kicked-puppy expression on his face. Especially because he put it there. "You're a freakin' dork," he said warmly. Cas looked away with a shrug; it wasn't anything new to hear and it was an endearment at this point. "It's an awesome idea, Cas," he said softly, leaning in and putting a few kisses along Cas' jaw.

He smiled when Cas stopped trying to pull away and leaned into him just a little bit, tilting his head ever-so slightly. It was enough to give him a little more room but not obvious enough to let him think Cas wasn't still pouting a little (on the inside). Which he really deserved for crapping all over Cas' romantic gesture—whether he knew it or not. He pushed his face into Cas' hair and smothered a chuckle. "But how the hell are we both gonna fit? You're 'sposed to zip two bags together into one big bag."

"Oh," Castiel whispered, leaning a way from Dean a little to study the sleeping bag. That made a lot more sense. He felt incredibly stupid; his eyes closed and he groaned softly. He had thought it would be a tight fit (neither of them were small men), but he figured that was part of the romanticism; being pressed close and intimate, sharing each other's space and warmth. He sighed and gave Dean an apologetic look. "I'm sorry."

Dean chuckled softly, pulled Cas close again and nosed along one lightly stubbled cheek. "Nah, it's fine. I shouldn'tve been such an ass about it. It really is an awesome idea." He eyed the sleeping bag critically. Maybe if they unzipped it, it would be OK? It wasn't all that cold out... Cas was weird about keeping blankets in the back of his car, so they could definitely make something work. He patted Cas' butt consolingly before he got to his knees, cursing the low ceiling under his breath, and fiddled with the bag's zippers.

"I should've realized," Castiel said softly, watching Dean unzip the sleeping bag and spread it out on the air mattress. It still wasn't quite long enough but definitely a better size for them to lay together on. Dean patted the spot next to him, and Castiel sighed softly, crawling onto the opened bag and flopping onto his back with an irritated huff. He covered his eyes with his arm, shoving his face into the crook of his elbow. He couldn't believe the turn the evening had taken... "I had a big romantic thing planned," he admitted, his voice muffled by his arm and fabric but still audible.

Dean paused and looked at Cas over his shoulder. He scooted closer and placed a hand on Cas' thigh. When Cas didn't look at him, he wiggled the other man's leg, hopefully getting his attention. Cas didn't look at him but made a grunting noise that let Dean know he was listening. "Oh yeah? You were gonna try getting in my pants?" he asked with a grin. Cas lifted his arm long enough to give him a smug-tinged but clear 'don't be stupid' look. Yeah, OK, point made; like Cas even had to try to get in his pants.

He snickered and flopped onto his butt, propping his elbows on his knees as he gave Cas his full attention. He twiddled his fingers at Cas, "Okay, then, Romeo, what was the big romantic thing?"

Castiel sighed and let his arm flop down. Dean was smiling warmly at him, lopsided and adorable. He sat up and shuffled closer, swinging a leg over so he could straddle Dean's lap. Dean was quick to resituate himself so it was a comfortable perch, spreading his thighs a bit, and resting his hands on Castiel's hips. He couldn't help gently carding a hand through Dean's hair, cupping his face and just gazing warmly at him. He smiled a little when Dean leaned into the touch, but otherwise just gazed back, open and patient. He took a deep breath, figuring it'll be easier to just blurt it out and worry about consequences later.

"Well, I was hoping I could talk you and Sam into moving in with me. Us," he corrected.

Dean's eyes widened a little. He hadn't been expecting that. Well, he kinda did—but later on. Not now. Not here. He blinked a few times, mostly just because he was surprised Cas expected anything other than a yes from him judging by his tense shoulders and the lack of breathing as he stared back, owlishly, waiting for an answer. He really didn't need to be 'talked into' anything. "Oh."

Castiel waited for the shock to wear off. Dean's breathing went a bit heavy and he blinked a few times but he otherwise seemed calm. He nodded once, confirming that Dean had heard him correctly. "Yes."

"Oh," Dean breathed again. He expected to feel panic if Cas ever brought this up but he only felt a light sort of tight feeling in his chest. In that good, bubbly sort of way. It was really freakin' weird but not at all bad. He practically lived at Cas' place anymore, anyway. He even had his clothes randomly in closets and drawers, nearly his entire DVD collection and small personal items everywhere. Sam even had some of his toys and crap there; his Avengers underoos were mixed in with Gabriel's on a near constant basis at this point.

A grin slowly worked onto his face and he slid his hands down to grope at Cas' ass. Not that Cas reacted, the weirdo. "Yeah, okay."

Castiel's lips pursed as he tried not to laugh. After all the plans and mental coaching he'd done, Dean just grinned with a smooth-sounding 'OK'? No, wait. This was good; it was a yes. But he had honestly been expecting a bit more freaking out or something. Maybe some time to think it over. "'Yeah, okay' as in 'yes, I'll move in with you and make a home together'?"

"Geez, way to make it sound gay, Cas," Dean muttered, rolling his eyes. He grinned when Cas' eyes narrowed. "Yeah, yeah. I know. Just sayin'," he said with an careless shrug and an easy smile. "But, yeah, okay I'll move in with you and make a home together," he dutifully parroted, rolling his eyes at the end so Cas knew how goofy it sounded. Well. Goofy and really fucking awesome.

But mostly goofy.

He didn't expect to be bowled over by Cas kissing the ever-loving hell out of him, he nearly kicked the tent over as his legs flew up and hit the fabric roof. It was totally worth it, though, when Cas' hands were all over him and every time he looked up Cas was practically beaming at him with that goofy-ass happy face when he stripped Dean in the cramped space and shoved him onto the make-shift bed hard enough his elbow wanged painfully against the hard ground. His throbbing elbow was quickly forgotten when Cas' hands were suddenly stroking and his mouth was too busy to complain.

Hopefully, Cas didn't completely melt his brain (or suck it out through his dick in what was one of the most enthusiastic blow jobs he'd probably ever had); he needed to remember to tell Sam the good news in the morning.

And he nearly did forget. They've got the car packed up and he was sliding the cooler in the back when he remembered they hadn't gotten around to hashing out details last night. He'd been completely distracted by Cas and they'd both passed out, spooned up and grinning like idiots instead of talking shit through like mature adults about to combine households.

"Hey, Cas?" Dean asked, waiting until the other man looked up from where he was trying to get syrup out of Gabe's hair. "When should we come over?"

Castiel nearly asked what Dean meant, they had plans until Wednesday, when it hit him. He was right back to feeling too warm and like his skin was too tight in a very pleasant way. He wanted to say 'right now!' but refrained, rolling his shoulders back and pursing his lips a little as he considered a more reasonable answer. "Whenever you can make it work," he said honestly.

"Dad," Sam whined, tugging at his dad's flannel shirt. "You said we was gonna be at Gabe's for another two days."

Dean cleared his throat and hunkered down, squatting so he was eye-level with Sam. "Yeah, I know I did, Sammy. But, uh, Cas sorta asked if we could stay longer. Uhm. Like, all the time." He felt like an idiot but he didn't want to go over Sam's head. Kid was smart, but he was still only 5. He leaned back a little when Sam got in his face, eyes wide and excited.

"Like, forever?" Sam asked, nearly falling into his dad's lap. He wanted to wiggle around and dance but he had to make sure he knew what his dad meant, first.

Dean cleared his throat again, mostly because that sounded pretty fucking great. "Well, I dunno about that, buddy," he said awkwardly. "More like, we'll all live together in one house instead of two."

"All of us?" Sam asked, eyes going a little wider.

Dean worried that Sam's eyeballs were gonna pop out of his head but nodded, snickering a little when Sam whooped and started dancing around in place. "I guess that's okay with you?" Sam paused, mid-dance, to give him an incredulous look that clearly called his intelligence into question. He held his hands up with a laugh. "Just making sure the bloom wasn't off the rose and you and Gabe hated each other now."

"No way!" Sam cried out, horrified at such a thought. He nearly fell when was hugged tightly from behind and he knew Gabe had heard his dad being dumb. "We can share a room?" Sam asked, looking between his dad and Mr. Cas. Then they could put all their legos into one super-huge pile and not worry about which room Captain American guarded.

Dean shared a look with Cas, shrugging. There were enough rooms for Sam to have his own and he figured at some point it might get used... But he didn't think he could say no if both boys were looking forward to it, giving him matching begging faces, complete with puppy-eyes and clasped hands. "Sure. Maybe we'll get some bunk-beds?" He winced when both boys screamed in delight, high-fiving each other and doing excited little wiggle dances around the car. "Geez," he muttered, twisting a finger in his ear to make sure his ear drums hadn't ruptured.

"So, Dean, when?" Castiel asked again, dodging a twirling Sam and Gabriel as he sidled closer, leaning against the car next to Dean and gazing at him intently. He knew there were details that needed to be attended to, but he found himself unwilling to wait now that Dean (and Sam) had agreed. Dean could only shrug though, unsure, but he knew the other man wouldn't take any longer than required. "Uhm. How's next week?"

Dean snorted softly, sliding a hand into Cas' hair just because he needed to. He cupped the back of Cas' neck and played with the dark strands, looking off as he thought. "Nah. I mean, we're gonna stick to hanging out until Wednesday, but as soon as I can get our stuff packed, we're home." He pretty much owned his house outright but he didn't care how long it took to sell, he just needed to get their stuff and worry about the other details later. Benny owed him a solid and he hoped they could get at least the big stuff done in a day.

Castiel smiled, humming happily and leaning into Dean. Home. It had a lovely ring to it.

: -:- :

"Mister Cas?"

Castiel looked to Sam, smiling warmly at the wide-eyed little boy. "Yes, Sam?" he asked when the silence stretched for a few beats. He set his fork down and folded his hands, giving Sam his full attention. They were nearly done dinner, their eleventh together (not that he was counting) since Dean and Sam officially moved in. He'd noticed conspiratorial whispering between Sam and Gabriel, little heads bent together often, and he was curious if he was going to finally find out what they'd been up to. He was frankly amazed they'd managed to keep it to themselves for nearly two weeks.

"Are you gonna marry my dad?" Sam asked. Because he knew that was what people did when they love each other. He folded his hands together and grinned, hoping for a yes. Married meant him and Gabe would be for-real brothers—better than bestest friends.

Dean went still, watching Cas' eyes widen a little just before Cas looked away with a light pink tinge to his face. It wasn't often he saw Cas blush and he really enjoyed it, even if they were at the dinner table and not sprawled naked and sweaty together. He wasn't sure how to answer Sam either. They hadn't discussed marriage. Like, at all. He didn't think it was even legal in their state yet. But still; the idea of Cas and forever was pretty appealing.

"Would that be something you'd accept?" Castiel asked quietly, gaze firmly on Sam. He knew Dean could overhear their discussion, but he wanted to stay focused on Sam. He had little intention of letting a child (even one he adored like his own) dictate his and Dean's relationship to that extent but he was curious. Sam wouldn't ask such a thing if he hadn't thought about it. He knew they'd be discussing it between themselves later.

For better or worse.

"Yeah," Sam said happily, grinning widely and showing off the gap in his smile (still feeling awesome and big because he'd lost his first tooth). He nodded vigorously, just to make sure they knew he was really super happy about it.

Dean watched Sam's hair flop around with fondness. He slowly turned towards Cas. "Whatdya say, Cas? Gonna make an honest man outta me?" he asked with a grin. Cas' face broke out into a big smile just before grabbing his face. They boys 'ewww!'ed as they kissed, but neither of them cared. Cas was kissing him, sweet and easy, hot and fast and he was a little dizzy with it.

"Maybe," was all Castiel said breathlessly, still smiling as he pulled away.

Dean just gazed back, speechless. He wasn't sure what the hell that meant but at least it wasn't a 'no'.

: -:- :

Sometimes, Dean would stare at Cas and wonder how—why—they worked so well. It was kind of weird to be around someone that was so different, yet similar. Someone that got him without having to be the same. He might've liked to pretend he was mysterious and all that, but Cas pretty much had him figured out and it was strangely comforting.

They didn't fight often—and it was generally about stupid shit when they did. Like whether or not Godzilla could really take on Mothra (duh) or how long someone could actually last in space if shot from an airlock. (Even though he was practically a certifiable genius, Cas still didn't quite grasp the fantasy aspect that accompanied most sci-fi.) He still remembered the week Cas glared at him, refusing to go near him unless he had to (because neither of them were gonna rough it on the sofa, but there was no sleepy-time cuddles that week) after Dean declared he'd make a better cowboy (because, really, he could definitely pull that shit off).

But things did get intense on rare occasions; both of them glaring, willing the other to just shut the fuck up and listen. Both of them convinced they are right and knew best. Once or twice, there might've been stupid shit done, thinking it was in the other's interest. Those times... could be bad. It had scared the shit out of him because most people fucked off after nasty, drag-down fights. Not talk it out and freakin' kiss it out. Cas said it was 'normal' but he didn't care so long as it meant it wasn't the end of everything. So their fights did tend to blow over quickly enough once they calmed down and freakin' talk to each other like rational, mature adults (like they should've at the get go). Usually because one (or both) of the boys would say something, innocently and in passing, and they'd snap the hell outta their pissing contest and engage their brains.

But even with all that, Cas was a constant. Something Dean could (and did) rely on, knew he'd be there through the mundane and when it mattered. It wasn't a concept he was all that familiar with outside of his 'family'. But now, Cas was his family, too, so he was getting it.

And it generally hit him at the oddest times, making him feel that pleasantly tight warm feeling and stuck dumb:

Watching TV with Cas. When they were alone, they'd snuggle. Most times, he'd just plop his head right into Cas' lap or tuck himself against his side since he didn't bother trying to make excuses for it anymore. If the boys were with them, they just sit as close as possible with the boys sprawled over and on them and Dean was content with an arm across the back of the sofa right behind Cas.

Seeing Cas read with Sam or teaching him math (that was probably way too much for a 5 year-old but he knew Sam would get with ease) would make him lean against the doorjamb to watch, feeling light and giddy.

Sitting across from Cas at a too-loud fast food place for lunch. Cas would either be staring warmly at him as he worked his way through his food or be helping Sam (or Gabe) with their food and he'd just feel that now-familiar pleasant sort of heaviness invade him as he watched. The times Sam would hug Cas or give him 'dad' looks, he had to step away for a moment or else he'd explode or something.

Walking into the kitchen to see Cas, sleeves rolled up as he washed dishes or stirring sizzling ground beef for taco night. Just the fact that he was now the kinda guy that did taco night with his little family was somewhere between 'really?!' and 'hells yeah, this is awesome'. He still wasn't sure exactly what he felt about the domestic-ness of it, other than it was good and made him feel content in a way that little else did.

Watching Cas strip for the night, carefully folding his clothes and scooting out of his socks then kicking them into the hamper. He never would've guess he'd ever be turned on by a nerdy (but still fuckhot) accountant that shimmied out of his ridiculously tight underwear like a go-go dancer. It generally left him feeling breathless, turned on and amazed he was there with Cas, and not some other nerdy guy that was probably more deserving. (Not that he'd let anyone else have Cas, he was too damn selfish and Cas seemed just as attached to him, so it was all good.)

He also never guessed he'd be happy as the little spoon, more often than not; contented and totally settled by the firm warmth of Cas pressed against his back, strong arm around his chest and a semi nestled innocently against his ass. But there it was. And it was awesome.