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

Thank you for the favorites, follows and reviews. Aaaaaand this is the end. Thanks for reading along. :)

Enjoy.)

Every time Dean hears a sound that he's 99.999% sure is Cas moaning or screaming in pain, he tenses, ready to bolt up and run down the hallway. And every damn time he does, each arm is gripped by a pushy Beta and he is manhandled back into his seat. Not always nicely either. He aims a glare at each Beta sitting at his side, and growls softly as he tries to yank his arms free. Not that it does a fucking bit of good; they both hold on like it's their jobs and he doesn't get any wiggle room in the slightest. Bobby just swats him upside the head with his free hand and Sam snickers at him like he's some harmless little puppy.

Assholes.

His Omega and pup are somewhere, down some creepy hallway, away from him. He should be there, goddammit, not here with his thumb up his ass, drinking coffee that's slightly less corrosive than battery acid and reading out-dated Popular Mechanics while Igg and Ook flank him like menacing (grabby) bookends.

"What the fuck, guys?" Dean says with an irritated huff. Honestly, if it was anyone else but Sam and Bobby with him, he'd be breaking noses, clunking heads together and booking it down the hallway as fast as he could go—hospital regulations can go fuck themselves.

Of course, he knows that is exactly why Bobby and Sam are flanking him. Even though he knows they'd be there anyway for moral support and all that happy shit, he's aware their main job at the moment is keeping him calm(ish) and seated. The head nurse, a severe looking Beta with a tight bun on her head and half-glasses she enjoyed glaring over, made sure he knew he wouldn't be allowed in the hospital otherwise.

He wanted to grumble and curse at being cowed like some wayward pup by a woman that didn't even reach his nipples. He tried giving her an intimidating Alpha glare. Which she ignored with a supremely unimpressed eye roll and a scoff of amusement as she went back to doing... nurse stuff. Her only other response was to point a finger towards the waiting area when he eased closer, scowling and this close to growling.

She then promptly proceeded to ignore him until he slunk off, shoulders slumped and feet dragging. (Seriously, why people thought Alphas were the assholes of the world, he'll never know.)

Sam sighs softly and tucks a stray clump of hair behind his ear with an absent swipe of his hand. "You know the rules, Dean. Alphas aren't allowed in, or anywhere near, the birthing rooms, man." He gives Dean an apologetic look but keeps his hand firmly around his brother's still-tensed bicep. Dean already tried to bolt the last time he'd let his grip go slack before he'd calmed down. He really doesn't blame him for wanting to be with Cas. But he also can't blame the hospital staff wanting to avoid an enraged Alpha freaking out on a room full of doctors and nurses the minute they went into a full-on protective crazy Alpha mode around their newborn pup.

He thinks it's kind of backwards, though; Omegas are vicious and fierce if they're feel like their pups (or themselves) are threatened. Worse than any Alpha he's ever heard about. But he also knows there's no way anyone would even dare suggest to separate a new parent from their pup right after birth. The difference seems to be that most Omegas can rationalize hospital staff taking care of them and their newborn as nonthreatening whereas most Alphas can't.

"Yeah," Dean mutters, gaze intent on the double doors. He tries not to check his watch, again. He's convinced they've been sitting here for hours doing absolutely nothing but sit and wait. Plus, Bobby has a surprisingly firm grip on his left arm and won't let him move a millimeter.

"Jesus. How freakin' long does it take to pop out a pup?" Dean grumbles under his breath, annoyed but hoping no one else heard him. This is taking entirely too long. Another smack gets him at the back of his head and he scowls. "Son of a bitch," he mutters with a huff, glowering at the doors again instead of at Bobby. He can't even rub the sting away and that somehow makes it worse.

Sam snorts and gives a warning squeeze to Dean's arm. "Don't go there, man. Cas'll rip your junk off." He tries to sound like he'd mourn his brother's knot removal, but it just mostly amuses him. Cas doesn't generally go for the gonads; but if he heard something like that out of Dean's mouth, especially now, the Omega probably would do it in a heartbeat. Probably with his bare hands. Cas is no pushover and it's probably one of the reasons he likes Cas so much. And enjoys the hell out of watching Dean interact with his sassy Mate.

"I wasn't making light of it, asshole," Dean defends. He finally relaxes and lets a long breath escape him. "I think it's—" He cuts himself off and clears his throat before he can start waxing poetic of how amazing he thinks Cas really is because he could do all the 'new life' shit. He respects the hell outta him and he's still awed about the whole 'going to be a father' thing. He can't imagine going through it himself, no matter how tough he thinks he is. He had admitted it once to Cas (because he isn't a completely emotionally stunted knothead, thankyouverymuch) and it was probably the weirdest, hottest sex they'd had in awhile when he was pounced on by his 8 month pregnant Omega and ridden like a freakin' bronco.

He gets enough slack in his arms to rub at his face and scrub at his hair, needing to move and feeling jumpy as hell. He's going crazy but he can't imagine how badly he'd be climbing the walls (or banging on doors) if he'd been stuck in the waiting room alone. As annoyed as he is at the Betas right now, he's overwhelming grateful for their presence. He sags back into his seat, suddenly feeling drained. "I'm just anxious, okay, man?"

Sam pats Dean's shoulder. "I know. They said they'd come tell you and they will. So. Relax."

Dean snorts. Relax. Right. How the hell is he supposed to relax with his pup ready to be born any freakin' moment and his Omega god knows where, alone—well, not alone but without him or any pack around. It's just not right. It makes him twitchy to imagine Cas, sweaty, panting, in pain and having to deal with it all by himself. He's forcefully pulled back into his chair again when he starts to stand, intent on finding his Cas and snuggling the shit out of him, letting him grab his hand or whatever he needs. He growls softly, annoyed he's being restrained.

He's tempted to yank his arms free and make a break for it but he's distracted when Bobby whacks him upside the head. Again. Fuck, if he wasn't so damn antsy, he'd be really annoyed Bobby's treating him like some misbehaving pup. He grinds his teeth together, but lets the sting at the back of his head distract him from thoughts of rescuing his Omega like a goddamn fairy tale prince or something. He glares at the floor instead of at Bobby.

"Why don't they just give you assholes a freakin' leash?" Dean mutters once his butt makes solid contact with the hard plastic seat once more.

Sam makes a thoughtful sound in the back of his throat. "Tempting," he deadpans, flicking his hair from his eyes with a jerk of his head. He finds himself wondering just how the hospital restrains Alphas that don't have pack to help out. He's pretty sure some sort of restraint system would have to be involved since the doors aren't exactly Alpha-rage proof. (They don't even have locks on them, for crying out loud.) Or maybe some hired Alphas that standby to babysit and restrain.

The doors open and three heads swivel, Dean's so quickly he hears something make a crick! sound. But he really doesn't care; that's Cas' mid-wife! He's up and in front of the beaming Beta, practically dancing from foot to foot with antsy energy and anticipation.

"So?" Dean blurts out, fingers wiggling impatiently when she takes more than a second to start talking.

Bobby joins Dean and gently eases the Alpha back with a hand around his bicep. The mid-wife didn't look phased one bit, most likely very familiar with Alphas in such states, but he knows how on edge Dean is and he's figuring 'better safe than sorry' is the way to go. The woman gives him a look he's choosing to interpret as amused gratitude so he dips his chin in a nod at her.

"If you'll follow me."

Dean glares at the Beta's back. Yeah, he's excited to be allowed through the double doors finally but he wants some info on his pup and Cas, dammit! He rushes to catch up. He's walking so close to her, he's nearly stepping on the backs of her neon green Crocs. "Is he okay? Cas? Where is he? Is he—Holy shit! How's my pup?" he asks, all in one rush, not even bothering to take a breath between questions. Before the mildly amused Beta can answer him, he's suddenly hit with the scent of Cas. He's in his Omega's hospital room, launching over the bed's guardrails and crawling up next to Cas on the stiff hospital bed before he's even aware of it.

Most of him relaxes as he takes in his Omega; Cas looks exhausted and a little glassy eyed with the goofy juice but otherwise OK. He can't stop himself from grabbing a handful of sweaty dark hair and shoving his face in Cas' neck, inhaling deeply as his hands gently roam around any part of Cas he can reach. His exhale comes out sounding shaky and choked, but he doesn't care. Cas smells amazing and happy and OK and there.

A new scent finally registers and Dean jerks away from Cas, eyes going huge when he realizes he'd been squishing their pup. He scrambles back and nearly falls off the bed in his haste to give Cas and their pup some room. "Oh! Shit! Sorry!"

"It's fine, Dean," Castiel murmurs, grabbing at Dean's sleeve before his Alpha can get too far. Possibly even fall off the bed. Thankfully, Dean stays put. He gently adjusts the knit cap covering their pup's bald head, brushing a kiss over one chubby pink cheek. He scents at his pup's head, unable to resist the urge whenever he's close enough. He presses a kiss to her tiny head, smiling into the knit and looking up at Dean. "You didn't hurt her."

Dean leans back in cautiously, still a little convinced he'll squish the tiny pup but there's no way he's not getting closer. He peeks at the pink bundle against Cas' chest and makes a noise he refuses to call anything but a manly sob of pride. "Her?" He figures the prickly feeling in his eyes is totally expected and lets it happen. Every damn ultrasound had been inconclusive (which had freaked him out a little until he realized his pup just kept blocking their view of the goods), but Cas had said numerous times he figured they were having a girl.

Sam, too, even if he's convinced his brother just agreed with Cas simply to an argumentative little brother because Dean kept saying 'boy'.

Still. Everything has been neutral colors up until now; lots of yellows and green, the occasional lavender (mostly because Charlie insisted that it was a perfect blend of pink and blue and therefore totally neutral). And now that he knows they've got a beautiful daughter, he's got a crazy urge to go get those tiny pink sequined Converse he saw at the pup store. And maybe that glittery tutu.

He leans closer, scenting her tiny head. She smells amazing; like him and Cas and newborn pup and something all her own all combined into something amazing and unique. He shifts closer, arranging his arms and one of his legs carefully so he doesn't jostle their pup or poke anything tender on Cas. He nuzzles Cas' neck and kisses along his jaw, a hand gently carding through dark hair. "You okay?" Cas nods, making their stubble rasp. He hums, content at the moment that Cas is really OK.

Dean leans closer and gently pulls the pink blanket down with one finger, getting a good look at their daughter. She's still pretty red all over and looks a little smooshed up but even so he's convinced she's the most beautiful pup in the world. He's not all that surprised to feel a heavy sort of happiness in his chest as he stares at her peaceful little face. He nearly coos like a complete sap when her lips bunch and purse up in her sleep. "Hey there, sweetheart," he whispers.

He's pretty sure she's got Cas' chin. He almost wants to poke her, wake her up so she'll open her eyes.

"Thanks, Cas," Dean says in a choked whisper. He pulls Cas in closer, wrapping an arm around his Omega and pup protectively. He gently boops her tiny nose, smiling like a dork when it wrinkles up a little and his daughter makes a tiny snuffling sound, face scrunching up with annoyance, lips smacking wetly before she calms again.

"You're welcome, Dean," Castiel says with a tired chuckle. "We still need a name, you know."

Dean hums thoughtfully. They had picked a few names (well, more like argued about how the names the other picked had totally sucked) but nothing for sure. "We got time."

The sound of a throat being cleared has him looking towards the doorway. He's not surprised to see Sam and Bobby, but he's surprised to realize he's a little reluctant to let them in. He's tempted to hold Cas closer, hide his pup from prying eyes... He forces himself to calm the hell down and offers a smile instead. There's no way he has to worry about Sam and Bobby, but he can't completely shut up that stupid Alpha part growling in the back of his mind that he has to protect Mate and pup from intruders.

Even Betas aren't neutral enough for his stupid instincts at the moment, apparently.

"We won't stay long," Sam says, recognizing Dean's tense posture for what it is. Even if Dean's jaw and shoulders relax a little at the sound of his voice, he stays in the doorway, holding his hands up and smiles warmly. "Just wanted to make sure everyone is okay." He gets a tired smile from Cas and nods back. He lifts a hand in a short wave, taking another step back when Dean pulls the Omega closer, green eyes narrowed and bordering on dangerous.

"Dean," Castiel says softly and elbows his Alpha when he hears a low rumble from Dean. The growl cuts out before it can really get going and Dean side-eyes him, somehow looking sorry and unapologetic at the same, like he can't help himself nor does he particularly want to. He pats Dean's stomach, calming his Alpha a little. He doesn't blame Dean for reacting this way; he's not altogether comfortable with anyone else near their pup right now either. But he knows Bobby and Sam are trustworthy around their newborn, safe. Pack. He's not as anxious now that he can scent both Betas, their scent familiar and soothing.

Dean wills himself to relax and chill the fuck out. Because it's Sam and Bobby for Christ's sake. He forces his hands open, smoothing his sweaty palms down his thighs and takes a deep breath. By the time he's counted to 10, he's much calmer. He cocks his head towards the general area of the room, "Get in here, Sammy."

Sam slowly eases into the room, eyebrows raised as he watches Dean force himself to stay calm. He gets closer when Dean relaxes against the stiff hospital bed, looking calm enough even if he's practically on top of Cas. "It's cool, man. I can come back—"

"Nah, you're already here," Dean interrupts, waving his brother closer. The closer Sam gets, the more his neck wants to stiffen and he's this close to growling lowly when Cas elbows him in the gut again. He rubs at the spot (damn pointy elbows and Cas wasn't pulling his jab that time) and exhales, long and slow. OK; If Cas is cool with Sammy being so close to their pup, he can deal with it. "C'mere." He waves Sam closer again. He deliberately takes a deep inhale, reminding him of the scent of pack and little brother; it actually helps him calm down as Sam shuffles forward until he's within arms reach.

He sways a little when Sam thumps his fist on the side of his shoulder, part congratulations and part 'don't be such a dickhead'. He gives his brother a genuine smile and a returning punch to Sam's shoulder. Sam leans against the bed-rail and he's calm, his earlier wariness replaced with a smug sense of pride; puffing up a little, pleased to show off his gorgeous pup. And a little, tiny bit of warm, open affection for his brother to see Sam looking so damn happy for him and Cas. He's almost tempted to make fun of his brother for resembling a 6 foot tall puppy, all coos and gooey eyes, but he pretty much had the same reaction.

Cas doesn't hold their pup out for Sam to take, but he doesn't recoil or otherwise react when Sam cautiously leans in for a closer look. Dean laughs outright when Sam's face blanks, expression carefully neutral and obviously taken by surprise at how weird a newborn pup looks. He'd be offended if he hadn't thought the same thing. Dean cocks his head meaningfully towards their pup and Sam eases closer, nostrils subtly flaring as he scents her from far away.

"Bobby," Dean calls, making Sam jump a little before going back to his quiet inspection of his daughter. Cas doesn't look bothered by Sam's giant man-paws near their pup, so he doesn't say anything as Sam nudges her tiny cheek, smooths the edges of the blanket down and fiddles with her little hat. He turns his attention to the older Beta, watching as Bobby eases into the room, eyes wary but warm and a little wet looking under the brim of his hat. He waves Bobby closer and smiles a little when the two Betas crowd each other so they can stare at his pup adoringly.

Bobby leans in slowly for a quick scent, too. The pup isn't as potent to his Beta nose, but it's enough to situate him. Dean and Castiel watch him as he does so, both looking a tad wary but relatively calm. He hadn't expected to be near the pup so soon and he's embarrassingly close to sniffling and grabbing the whole bunch into a group-hug. He slowly reaches out and adjusts the little pink cap on the pup's head, covering a tiny ear so she won't get cold.

He can't help snickering when Cas and Dean both move to touch the area, diluting his scent on the pup.

"She's beautiful, boys," Bobby says, voice soft and sincere, patting Cas' leg under the covers and giving Dean a nod in congratulations. He's fit to split seeing Dean a proud papa and he claps a hand to his shoulder, squeezing gently when Dean pats it. They're both looking down at the pup, but he knows Dean can still feel his joy, knows he's damn proud.

Sam nods in agreement, even if she looks like a squished, little pink raisin right now, it's obvious she's gonna be adorable in no time; it'd be impossible for Dean and Cas' pup to be anything but. "Yeah, good job guys," he adds with a grin, knocking Dean's shoulder with a fist again. Dean puffs up proudly, chin raised and expression cocky, and he snorts a laugh, rolling his eyes a little at Dean's ridiculousness.

"So. Did you guys figure out a name yet?" Sam asks.

He'd been around for a few of Cas and Dean's discussions about names and he's curious to see if they'd managed to figure something out. Because last time, it was absolutely ridiculous and he got the hell outta the room when it turned into a showdown, high-tailing it out before they started fighting (or fucking) until there was only one. He slowly eases himself back upright and puts some distance between him and the new pup. Bobby is quick to follow him and they both find chairs since Dean and Cas aren't kicking them out right away.

"Not yet," Dean admits with a shrug. He ignores Cas' snicker, the little shit, and goes back to staring at his pup. She's sleeping, her little eyelids closed and fluttering occasionally as she makes suckling motions with her mouth. Her fists flail gently every now and then and Cas pats her padded butt softly, body swaying minutely and looking just absolutely perfect. He's so close to losing his shit, he has to look away.

He clears his throat and focuses on Sam. "We'll figure something out before she hits pre-school." He gently bumps Cas shoulder with his, giving him a grin and a wink.

A commotion out in the hall has them all looking towards the door. Bobby and Sam with mere curiosity, but Dean and Cas both with narrowed eyes. Dean unconsciously shifts in front of Cas and their pup as he glares at the door. The murmuring turns into the distinct sound of voices and then the same Beta that lead Dean earlier pops her head in the door. Her eyes dart around the room and she looks a little apologetic but mostly just ticked off. "You've got visitors."

Castiel groans softly, eyes closing. "Shit."

"Your pack?" Dean asks, feeling like Captain Obvious but unable to help himself. He hasn't moved from his protective stance and position. Now that he's got an idea of what's going on, it seems like a really good idea to stay put. Maybe lock the door...

Castiel nods, exhaling loudly. He glances down at his pup, peacefully asleep, and leans against Dean's back. "I don't want to see them yet," he mumbles. Bobby and Sam he can handle; they're a close-knit pack now and have been for over a year. His own pack he loves, or course, but hasn't seen much of since he'd gone off to school. He loves them but he knows he's not going to be able to stand having any of them in the room right now. Maybe not even Gabriel. (Or... perhaps, especially not Gabriel.)

He knows there's little chance of them entering peacefully and respecting the hospital occupancy rules. The very idea of the room being packed full of people (a large number of them Alphas) has him swaying closer to Dean, pressing his nose in close and nearly voicing a whimper of distress.

"Alright, sweetheart," Dean murmurs back, turning enough to be able to massage the back of Cas' neck as settle his lips on the top of his head. Whatever tension his Omega felt drains away under his touch and he hums with satisfaction. He eases Cas' back into his pillows and stands, arranging blankets and pillows to his liking so Cas is ensconced in a comfy little nest. He pointedly ignores the eye roll and fluffs the pillow one last time before he turns away. "Sammy." Without waiting for a response, knowing his brother will take his spot without further prompting needed, he heads out into the hallway.

He blinks a few times, needing a moment to take in the fact that there are over a dozen people gathered around, blocking the hallway. Holy shit. Every single one of them turns towards him expectantly, somehow the sound of the door snicking closed being heard through the noise. He's trying to put names with descriptions and he's coming up a little short and wishing he'd paid more attention when Cas went on and on about various pack members.

And that they actually got on the ball with inviting random small groups to dinner for casual meet-and-greets (or whatever Sam called it). Dammit.

"You're Cassie's Alpha?"

"Husband," Dean corrects, scowling a little, sticking his left hand up to show off his ring. He eyes the one that spoke, some blonde Beta dick with a pretentious accent and horrible fashion sense. "We're married." Blondie's hands go up in a surrendering gesture even as an unapologetic, smarmy smirk lifts the Beta's lips. Dean takes a moment to look at everyone in turn. Some people can he pick out because Cas has described them (Gabriel is easy to spot; he sees the short Omega near the front of the group and nods at him).

"Okay," Dean says slowly, shifting on his feet so he's resembling a brick wall. He crosses his arms over his chest and does his best Alpha stare down. Which, if he says so himself, is pretty friggin' impressive. A few gazes shift a way, a couple people losing interest in looking at him and he sniffs with satisfaction. He raises and waves one finger, "No one's getting in today."

"Why not?"

Dean scoffs softly but his face goes back to impassive quickly. He doesn't even bother trying to pinpoint who spoke. "I'm not letting any of you near my pup or Cas right now. Probably for at least a week." He holds a hand up when he sees numerous mouths open, cutting off any protests before they can even get started. He stares at them all in turn, going all icy cool now, because he's so not putting up with this shit. Not now, not when he should be with Cas and their daughter instead of outside playing Hall Monitor to a bunch of assholes that should know better.

"Nope," he says with a firm shake of his head, one of his hands karate chopping the air with finality. "We ain't gonna negotiate on this. I'm this close—" He holds his fingers barely a millimeter apart, eyes narrowed, "—to kicking asses and calling security on you all as it is. I think a few days will be enough for us all to calm a little." And really, this shouldn't be a surprise. At all. Every single one of these fuckers knows how it is with a new pup; it's not like he's the unreasonable one or making shit up as he goes.

Dean's arms recross over his chest and he slowly looks at everyone and raises his eyebrows. "Names," he demands. They all seem to speak at the same time and he's inundated with names, most sounding like someone went name-picking in the bible. He just nods along like he caught even half of that shit (or cared). He points to Gabriel, smothering the urge to punch the Omega when Gabe smirks and struts up to him, nearly jabbing him in the throat with the lollypop stick hanging out of his mouth as he gets into his personal space.

He steps back purely on instinct, scowling. Jesus. It must be a family thing.

Before he can say anything to Gabriel (letting him know he's got five minutes), he's got two Alphas in his face, glowering fiercely. He can't help himself; he gently pushes Gabriel out of the way as he steps closer to the two Alphas instead of backing away, arms tensing as a low growl reverberates through his chest before he's even thinking about it.

Dean knows he's not thinking clearly, or else he wouldn't be growling at these two goons like some raging Alpha asshole, in front of what is probably Cas' entire pack, in a damn hospital. Luckily, before things can even start to turn into an Alpha pissing contest, Gabriel steps between them all, subtly easing them apart with hands on chests and a chuckle. The other two Alphas (which he thinks might be Lucifer and Michael—because Cas' parents are apparently batshit crazy as well as religious) step back as well. They're both looking thrilled as punch doing so but doing it anyway so Gabriel isn't stuck in the middle of some knot-head smack-down. Even with their tempers running high, none of them want an Omega in harms way.

Of course, Gabriel has no problems using that damn Omega mojo on them and quicker than a snap of the fingers, they're all chilled the fuck out on Omega goofy juice when Gabriel's Omega stink—ugh, like sparkly rainbows, fluffy cotton candy and kittens or something—practically smacks them all in the face.

Dean really wants to be annoyed he's being manipulated (and a look at the two Alpha dicks lets him know they're sharing that thought and they share a commiserating look for a split second before they remember themselves and go back to glaring), but he can't be. It's pretty much impossible. Plus, it's for the best they've all been Omega'd before anything could escalate; the whole meeting-Cas'-pack-for-the-first-time and being-in-a-hospital thing. (Awkward. Any future pack gatherings were going to be so much fun.)

Dean scowls because Gabriel, the little shit, knows it.

Gabriel glares between them all, making every damn one of them lower their heads a little, their feet shuffling like chastised pups caught out. Once he's sure they've all put their dicks away, his lips immediately shift up into a smirk, golden-hazel eyes practically twinkling with mischievous good humor. He pushes past Dean and head's into Cas' room without a word said.

And really, Dean is completely fine with it. It's definitely one of those pheromone induced bullshit things that he's not at all threatened by an unknown Omega being near his pup and Cas. Because. Well. Omega. Any lingering irritation he might've felt over Gabriel being an unknown is squashed completely when he hears Cas' voice, tired but warm and welcoming, greeting the other Omega, introducing their pup with excitement in his tone.

"Okay. Uh," Dean rubs at the back of his neck. He deflates a little, too stressed and tired to keep up the Alpha rage for long. Besides, no one's rushing the room or challenging him, so he can relax. "Sorry. Again. But. Uh, now's not a good time. So, next week?" There are a few nods and murmurs of assent but no one actually leaves. Dean scoffs under his breath and just heads back into the room, firmly latching the door. He's not all that surprised to see Gabriel in his spot on the bed, pressed in close to Cas and cooing at their pup and making stupid faces that people can't seem to not make when around an adorable pup.

He plops himself at the foot of Cas' bed, rubbing his foot through the blankets because he needs to touch right now.

"Well, I'm gonna head out," Bobby says, slapping his knees and then easing up from the chair he'd dragged into the corner of the room. Cas didn't seem to mind him being close to the pup, but he's got no interest in setting Dean off again. Luckily, the idjit's mellowed in the last few moments but he's never been one to push his luck. He pulls Dean in for a brief, tight hug. "Congrats, boy," he says quietly, giving Dean a few hard pats on the back before letting him go. "You got yourselves a real beaut there," he nods towards their still sleeping pup, smiling warmly.

Dean puffs out a bit, pride clear, grinning widely. He knows; his pup is the most beautiful. Like, ever. "Thanks, Bobby," he says, clapping the Beta on the shoulder and giving it a brief squeeze. They both turn away at the same time, hiding a sniffle with a light cough and knuckling at their eyes surreptitiously, muttering about the dry air in the room.

"You leaving?" Sam asks Bobby. He gets a nod and sighs softly, wishing he'd taken his own car. He'd hoped to spend more time with the pup. Bobby's looking at him expectantly so he says his goodbyes, giving the pup a gentle noogie over her pink cap just before he backs away. He snickers when Dean quickly palms the area, glaring at him as he rubs off Sam's Beta stink. "S'okay if we visit tomorrow?"

Castiel nods, smiling up at Sam. "Yes, that'll be nice." He figures he'll have at least another day at the hospital and he's looking forward to having someone else there to break the monotony. Sam nods back and he's gone moments later, Bobby practically dragging him out of the room, bitching about parking fees.

"So, Dean-o. Cassie," Gabriel says, kicking his feet up on the bed and making himself comfortable against Cas. He glances at the sleeping pup and smiles a little. He's not exactly fond of pups, Omega or no, but Castiel sure makes a cute one. "You crazy kids picked a name yet?"

Dean rolls his eyes and pulls the short Omega off the bed, ignoring his squawk of protest, immediately taking the spot he was in. He nearly laughs when Gabriel just runs around to the other side of the bed and hops on, sandwiching Cas between them. He blinks when a candy bar comes from nowhere and the Omega unwraps and munches on it without taking his attention off him or Cas in the slightest. "Not yet. Why? You got any ideas?"

"I do!" Gabriel says brightly, smothering a surge of giddiness. Dean fell right into his bait. Sucker. He holds his candy bar between his teeth as he pats his pockets and produces a small notebook. He finishes off his candy bar in two bites and flips the cover open with a flourish. "Brittany." Dean scowls. "Okay," Gabriel says slowly, crossing the name off with a careless slash. He licks his thumb and turns the page with a flick of his wrist, clears his throat and proceeds with a gleeful sort of anticipation.

"Amanda."

Dean shakes his head.

"Samantha."

Dean snickers, mouth twitching with a smile, but shakes his head. He'd already considered that and really didn't want to deal with Sam's head getting any larger by, essentially, naming his daughter after him. Tempting as it might be...

"Donna."

Dean shakes his head again, huffing impatiently.

"Esther."

Dean's face wrinkles up in a grimace.

"Bernice."

Dean glares menacingly.

"Gertrude."

Dean's menacing glare intensifies.

"Hester?"

Dean grimaces and shakes his head.

"Mildred."

Dean shakes his head firmly.

"Edwina?"

Dean's eyebrow lifts, and even Gabriel can agree with that one. He crosses it off with a shrug and continues;

"Geraldine."

Dean and Castiel share identical looks of 'no'.

"Winifred?"

Dean scowls.

"Florence!"

Dean's scowl deepens, somehow.

"Stel-la!" Gabriel says, drawing out the 'A' dramatically, mock-howling it to the ceiling with clenched fists raised. He nearly sighs when there's only stony silence, dropping his hands with a soft huff. Uncultured heathens, the both of them. Dean's deadpan expression is a bit worse than the scowl.

"Ah," Gabriel breaths out, feeling oddly uncertain and finally out of names. He flips through his notebook but there's nothing inspiring in there. Plus, now that he's seen his wrinkly little niece, he knows none of the names he picked out suit her. She's too cute to be a Barbara. Most of the names he picked were mostly because he knew Cassie wouldn't like them, but now that he's got a scowling Alpha to deal with, it's far less amusing.

Much less amusing, he amends when Dean's scowl shifts into a scathing look that makes him want to pat himself down and make sure he's not on fire. He makes one up instead. "Elle?" Dean's eyebrows twitch up but at least there's no scowl or grimace or evil Alpha face. And the look he sends Cassie is promising, too. He's pretty sure he's going to escape the room without his insides twisted up like a balloon animal. Totally a win.

Castiel gently knocks his knee into Gabriel's side, smiling like a dope. "I like that one," he offers when Dean doesn't say anything. But at least he's no longer scowling. Progress, really. Dean merely grunts noncommittally and puts an arm around him, nuzzling and scenting him a little possessively, snuffling at his hair and cupping his neck. He doesn't mind and shifts so he and the pup are closer. He can feel Dean relax even more against him when their scents mingle pleasantly.

"What else do you have?" he asks, craning his neck up in an effort to see what Gabriel has written down.

Gabriel thumbs through a few pages before closing the notepad so Cas can't see anything. "Not much," he says with a shrug. "I sorta just picked the worst," he admits with a grin. Dean glares at him and he clears his throat, lightly shrugging his shoulders self-consciously. "I thought it would be funny. But—" He coughs into his fist a little awkwardly when he's given two very unimpressed expressions. A pair of sticks-in-the-mud, totally made for each other in that regard. "Yeah, no. I get it. Not funny," he's quick to say when Dean's glare threatens to deepen to epic proportions. Like he could kill with his pretty little princess eyes alone.

Geez. Some people just can't take a joke.

...❤...

"What the hell, Sammy?" Dean demands in a harsh whisper. He's so not in the mood for this shit right now. He presses his fingers into his temples, hoping it'll be enough to make the headache blooming there go away. Elle just started sleeping more than 4 hours at a pop, him and Cas are practically zombies. He can't find it in himself to tell everyone to pack their shit up and go, though. He does none-too-gently push and prod his brother into the next room so his voice doesn't risk waking Cas or Elle.

Sam holds his hands up, giving Dean the biggest, best puppy-eyes he can manage. His brother looks ready to do some serious damage but he deflates a little under his expertly applied expression. The low growl of annoyance just makes him want to smile because Dean is relenting, even if he's not exactly pleased about it. "I'm sorry! What was I supposed to do?"

"Uh, how about ignore them and just fuckin' leave?" Dean offers, glaring. He rubs his palm into his temple, soothing the throb a little.

Sam huffs out an annoyed breath. "No way, man. They're Cas' pack, I couldn't just ignore 'em." Dean scowls but doesn't argue the point, just goes back to glaring at the wall behind him and rubbing a hand over his mouth. "Besides, holidays are for pack," he points out, smirking when Dean can offer no argument against it; just grits his teeth and looks off, glaring at the carpet like its personally offended him. He claps Dean on the back and offers a bright smile, trying to find the bright side. "So, we'll just need a bigger turkey," he says, shrugging. "No big."

"Just a bigger turkey," Dean mutters, tone slightly mocking. As if that's the only problem with inviting nearly all of Cas' entire freakin' pack to Thanksgiving dinner. He scrubs a hand over his face. He so doesn't want to deal with this right now, but at least Sam told him as soon as possible. He'd probably go apocalyptic if Sam forgot and told him at the last moment (as he usually does). "Okay," he says slowly, exhaling and calming himself. "So. Any ideas in that gigantor head of yours where this will happen?"

Sam looks around, forehead all scrunched up. Dean and Cas' place is moderately sized, but he's pretty sure it'll fit 20 people. A bit of a tight fit. For 20 near strangers. Homey. OK, maybe he hadn't thought this through all the way... "Uhm. Here? I guess we rent a big table and chairs? Stick it in the living room?" He eyes the room; it should work. If they scootch the sofas back, and stick the monster TV in the corner, there will be plenty of room. "Because Bobby's isn't big enough for even half of 'em." He knows Dean won't feel comfortable anywhere else, anyway; not for their first family gathering and with a new pup around strangers.

"Yeah, alright," Dean says with a sigh. It'll be easier on his home turf, so that's something. "That will probably work. But, man, who the hell is gonna cook all that?" He has to bite the inside of his mouth to keep from laughing like a jackass when Sam tries to act cool, stuffing his hands in his back pockets and resuming his study of his living room.

Sam clears his throat, "Gabe said he'd help."

"Oh, I didn't know Gabe could cook," Dean says calmly enough that Sam will know he's being teased. They've only met, like, twice but it isn't hard to tell Sam isn't all that fond of the tiny terror that is Cas' older brother. One of 'em, anyway (not that any of them are peaches; so far he's wondering how Cas avoided hitting every branch on the way outta that family tree full of dicks and came out fairly normal). He's pretty damn proud of Sam for not punting the guy into a pool, honestly. Sam's neck is all red and he can't help cooing and ruffling Sam's hair, making it flop around and hopefully distracting his brother from the potential of a full-on bitch session.

He laughs when Sam smacks his hand away with a soft growl of annoyance, making it so worth the effort of having to go up on his toes a little. "Well, good. Good. I'm guessing Bobby already knows?"

Sam nods, finally feeling his face cool off now that Dean's not poking about Gabe. They get along OK enough not to kill each other but he's not exactly the guy's biggest fan; he puts up with enough juvenile practical jokes and stupid pranks from his own brother, thankyouverymuch. But Gabriel is pack now and he knows he has to find a way to deal with him that doesn't include balling the Omega up and stuffing the turkey with him. "Yeah. It was kinda his idea."

Dean just nods, not all that surprised. Bobby likes to pretend to be a hard-ass but little is more important to him than pack, blood related or not.

"I'll call Jo and Benny," Sam adds. Both are practically pack anyways and they haven't spent a holiday apart yet. Plus, the more familiar faces and scents around, the better.

"Awesome," Dean says, thrilled with the thought of showing off his pup to his best friends. Of course, he has sent pictures (like, a hundred of them because his Elle is just too damn adorable and photogenic and perfect), but it's not the same as actually seeing and getting a chance to scent and revel in her awesomeness—personally. "Think we can pull it together in a little over a week?"

Sam nods, standing taller. "Oh yeah," he says smugly. Yeah, it's probably one of those old fashioned Omega things but with him, Gabe and Cas on this? It'll be done and dusted in plenty of time. To perfection.

Unfortunately, 9 days fly by and Sam's showing up at Dean's door on a Wednesday afternoon, arms loaded with bags. He doesn't even comment on the hippy bags, all those reusable fabric jobs, just grunts a greeting to his annoyingly perky brother. Asshole probably went jogging at dawn and guzzled a gallon of wheat grass or something, too.

Dean rubs at his eyes, annoyed to be rudely awoken from his nap. He shoves the door open hard enough for Sam to sneak past, one of his hippy-dippy canvas shopping bag slamming into his hip on the way past. He mutters a surly 'asshole' under his breath and shuffles outside to get the rest of the stuff from Sam's car. He glares at the Mustang, equal parts annoyed and impressed Sam managed to get folding tables in there. Along with a dozen or so shopping bags.

And three cases of beer. He praises his brother's genius and grabs them first, cradling one to his chest and carrying one in each hand. He's just about to kick the door for Sam's attention when it opens, Sam giving him a bitch-face. "What? Priorities little brother," he says sagely and shuffles past to set the cases down on the table. He rolls his eyes and follows Sam back outside to grab the rest of the stuff.

It takes about 20 minutes to un-tetris the tables from the car and by the time they're huffing and puffing them through the front door, Cas and Elle are both awake. Dean grins like a dope to see them both, Cas with Elle cradled to his chest, facing outwards. They've got matching bed-head, dark hair sticking up in every direction, and identical grumpy, half-squinty blue eyes. As soon as he sets the table down, narrowly missing dropping it on Sam's foot with hardly a care, he rushes over to them.

"Hello, Sam," Castiel says, putting up with Dean's fingers running through his hair. He lifts Elle up a little higher so Dean can reach her head easily, assisting Dean in his grooming efforts of her wispy curls and chuckling softly when she snuffles and wobbles her head enough to give his wrist a sniff. "I wasn't aware you were coming," he says apologetically. He's still in his pajamas but thankfully Sam doesn't seem to care.

Sam gives Cas a quick wave before heading into the kitchen. "Yeah, sorry. Got here a little earlier than I thought," he shouts over his shoulder. He hears Cas enter the kitchen and turns, offering a sheepish smile. "I might've gotten a little ahead of myself."

"That's quite alright," Castiel says, yawning and shifting Elle up in his grip. He adjusts her so she's nestled against his chest, her snuffling and soft whines for a bottle quieted a little as she gnaws on a fist and watches Sam move around the kitchen. Without having to say anything, Sam reaches up for a bottle and formula, mixing one up before Castiel can gently nudge him aside. He switches Elle to the cook of his arm and leans against the counter as he offers Elle her bottle, watching Sam go back to what he was doing, pulling things from bags and opening and closing cabinets to get things out.

He chuckles to himself, making a face at Elle as she sucks down her formula with Winchester enthusiasm, fingertips white as she grips her bottle tight. "Uncle Sam is a bit of a mess, isn't he Ellie?" he murmurs to her, tapping her nose gently. She gives him a gummy grin around the nipple for a moment before returning to her serious task of emptying it.

"Am not," Sam mutters under his breath, clearing a spot in the 'fridge for the turkey. It cost extra for the fresh one (not to mention the organic, free-range label), but he didn't have the time to defrost one. He doesn't have to look to know that Elle is probably grinning around the nipple of her bottle like her idiot Alpha father. He's not sure what to think about that, really, knowing that his months-old niece is so much like Dean already that she's mocking him, too. Fantastic.

Dean wanders into the kitchen and carefully pries Elle from Cas, the bottle and baby transferring hands smoothly with practice. He hips checks Cas towards the doorway. "I got her, go get dressed." As much as he likes Cas in his jammies, he knows Cas prefers to be 'properly dressed' around company. Even if 'company' meant Sam or anyone else that's pack because Cas is weird and proper like that. He makes a face at Elle, laughing and swiping a thumb along her chin when she gives him a gummy smile and gurgles a giggle through her formula, dribbling some.

"So," Dean says, drawing the word out until Sam turns around with a huff. But once Sam sees his face, the ticked-off, put upon expression drops off his face and he stills, standing up taller and almost looking concerned. He waves it off, he didn't mean to freak his brother out. "Big day."

Sam nods slowly, inching back until his butt hits the counter so he can lean on it. It's not often he sees Dean looking unsettled. Nervous. Even Elle is looking at him, small eyebrows drawn together, probably confused by the mixed signals between Dean's expression and scent. "Yup," he says when Dean remains quiet, looking at Elle instead of at him. "Lots'a people gonna be here."

"Yup," Dean says back, wiping another dribble off Elle's chin. She's generally a pretty neat eater, preferring her food to be in her belly than on her face and clothes. He pulls the empty bottle from her mouth when she sucks it dry and chews on the rubber nipple. He sighs, rolling his eyes when Sam looks ready to leap across the kitchen and hug him. He bounces a little and pats at Elle's back. "Simmer down, Sammy. I'm not about to freak out or anything, okay?" Sam relaxes. A little. "I'm just..." he waves a hand around, making a face.

Sam huffs a soft laugh. "Nervous," he finishes for his brother, not even bothering making it a question.

"Sorta," Dean admits. "I mean, the last time I saw any of them I was kicking them outta the hospital before they could see Cas or the pup." He wants to feel bad about it, he does, but he can't quite manage it. Part of him growls that if they actually gave a shit, they'd have seen Cas within the last 4 years or so, not come sniffing around the moment they heard about Elle.

Sam snorts and rubs at his chin. "Well, yeah, that'll make things fun. But, hey, at least it'll finally be over with." Dean mutters something under his breath that he's fairly certain sounds like 'ho-fuckin'-rah'.

Of course, once Dean sees the half dozen pies (2 each of pumpkin, pecan and sweet potato, because Dean is a freakin' glutton and Sam wants to make sure there's enough for other people to manage a piece before Dean stuffs himself to bursting), he's even calmer. Perky, even; walking over an inspecting them, bouncing Elle on his hip and telling her that she can have a piece once she gets at least one tooth.

Cas comes back in and kicks Dean out of the kitchen before he can drool all over the pies. Sam just laughs and rolls his eyes when Dean goes with a sniff, lifting his chin like he's actually offended and muttering to Elle about how watching football with Benny was better than hanging out with mean daddy and rude uncle Sammy anyway. By the time Gabe gets there and they're just waiting for the turkey to finish, most of Cas' pack has arrived, clustered around in weird little groups.

Dean does his best to make the rounds, make introductions, show Elle off and work the room. He's actually surprised how many people ask to hold her (instead of just grabbing for her) and how cool Elle is with all the attention from new people. Of course, by the time Balthazar gets her, Dean can't even pretend to be sorry she vomits on his velvet deep v-neck shirt and starts crying, a flailing fist getting the Beta right in the nose.

"Sorry, man," Dean says, grinning openly. Balthazar shrugs and hands Elle back over, efficiently and quickly, before anything else happens. Dean almost wants to like the guy a little when Balthazar chuckles, fingers pinching the vomit-soaked shirt away from his skin and playfully wags a finger at a wide-eyed Elle. "Uh, wanna borrow something?" Dean asks, eyeing the stained shirt. He doesn't know squat about velvet (seriously, who wears a shirt made of velvet?) but he's pretty sure it's ruined. Plus, it can't feel (or smell) good. Elle just looks on, contentedly gnawing on her fist now and staring at Balthazar from the safety of his hip.

He comes back a few moments later with one of Cas' shirts, a tiny nugget of glee bubbling up and threatening to get him laughing when Balthazar looks at the T-shirt, mouth pinched into a thin line. The soiled shirt is tossed at him and Dean laughs aloud when the Beta rolls his eyes, heaves a put upon sigh and wriggles into the T-shirt. He hands Elle back over, knowing the screen-printed sock monkey will have her rapt attention and Cas' lingering scent on it will help settle Elle, too.

Once he's sure Elle and Balthazar are getting along OK (marveling that the Beta has grown on him despite being kind of a dick), he wanders off to find Cas. It doesn't take him long and he's grinning to find his Omega in Elle's room, showing off pictures and who knows what other pup-related crap to a large gathering of people crammed into the tiny room. He knows he had been a little worried about having so many people here, meeting practically Cas' entire pack in one shot, during a damn holiday.

But, it's been kind of awesome, once that tense moment at the door with Lucifer (seriously?) and Michael was smoothed over with a few beers and a Gabriel-chaperoned round of apologies. He hadn't been able to keep a grudge once they'd been able to agree there were just things older brothers, Alphas especially, did for their pack. By the time they're finally eating and squished in around the tables, he's really glad they did this.

Dean catches Sam's attention, ready to have a nice brotherly caring moment... and sucks his teeth, rolling his eyes, when his little brother just gives him a smug face, 'I told you so' practically oozing across the table at him. He's tempted to flip Sam off but he's distracted by Cas' full-on happy smile and grabbing his hand under the table. He relaxes back into his chair, rubbing his full belly and gives Cas' hand a squeeze before his Omega goes back to talking with Gabriel and Jo about plans for Christmas.

He's kind of looking forward to it.