Sacrifices

by Sparkleshudson

Summary:

What if Dean's seeming acceptance of death wasn't resignation, but a choice?

Maybe he was given an ultimatum: continue his life as a hunter with Sam, or sacrifice himself to give his brother a chance at happiness and normalcy, allowing Dean to reunite with Castiel in the afterlife.

This perspective adds depth to Dean's character, suggesting his decision to "give up" was actually a selfless act of love for Sam's future and a plan to reunite with his angel.

The relationship between Dean and Cas is only mentioned in part 1, this is just a small fix it/prequel of sorts. Part 1 ends with Dean’s death and part 2 will start with him in heaven.

Also the dialogue between Sam and Dean is the exact dialogue that happens in the show, word for word, I simply added context behind them.

Chapter 1: How to save a life.

"Sam..."

Dean gasped, clutching his chest as the pain intensified.

“I don't...I don't think I'm going anywhere..." His voice was surprisingly calm, a stark contrast to the agony coursing through his body. It felt like a hot poker was lodged in his heart, twisting with every beat. Dean's mind recoiled in dark humor: Really? Fucking vampire mimes. The irony wasn't lost on him. He'd always expected to go out in a blaze of glory, fighting some monster on a hunt. Not like this. Not in some barn, skewered like a stuck pig.

“What? What are you talking about?” Sam said in a confused tone as he finished holstering his machete.

The pain intensified as Dean reached for the source of the pain his back.

“I think there is something.. something in my back” he winced.

“It feels like it is right through me”.

His every breath started to become more excruciating and more exhausting.

Sam rushed to Dean's side, reaching out to support him, but as he touched his brother's back, Dean's agonized groan was accompanied by a sudden warmth spreading across Sam's hand. He quickly pulled it away, and his eyes widened in horror as he saw the crimson liquid staining his palm. Dean was hemorrhaging, and fast.

“AH GOD! FUCK!” Dean's anguished cry shattered the air as reality slammed into him and shock gave way to stark terror.

Sam's eyes widened in panic as he sprang into action, fueled by desperation and brotherly love. He knew he had to act fast, to do everything in his power to save Dean, to keep him alive..

“"Alright, hold on..okay? I've got you," Sam said, trying to keep his voice steady as he moved to support Dean. But the moment he shifted him, Dean's face contorted in agony. Whatever was lodged in his back was holding in the bleeding, and removing it would unleash a torrent of blood. Dean knew it, and the realization was crushing. It was futile – there was probably nothing Sam could do to save him. The weight of that truth hung between them, a stark and helpless reality.

“No, no, no, no! Don’t move me” Dean exclaimed. Wincing from the now almost overwhelming pain.

“It feels like this thing is holding me together right now..” He coughed, each breath a laborious struggle, as if an invisible weight pressed down on his chest, making every inhale a fight.

“Just give me a minute” He struggled to come to terms with the harsh reality – this time, there might be no saving him, no miracle cure, no last-minute reprieve.

Sam took a deep, ragged breath and stepped back, panic finally overwhelming him. He was about to shout out for a solution, any solution, when suddenly everything around him seemed to freeze.

Dean's pain receded, replaced by a soothing calm that washed over him like a gentle wave.

Confused, Dean's gaze flickered to Sam, who stood stock-still, like a statue. And then, out of nowhere, a figure emerged from behind him. Dressed in radiant white, with a gentle smile and outstretched hand.

The familiar gesture, one he'd used countless times before, brought a mix of wonder and peace to Dean's battered body.

“Hello Dean.” Jack smiled.

Dean’s gaze softened at the sight of him, yet despite the comfort Jack’s presence brought, Dean’s mind flashed to Jack’s promise not to intervene, but Dean knew his arrival wasn’t a coincidence as he looked into Jack’s eyes, and he could feel that it wasn’t necessarily for a good reason. Still he found stillness in Jack’s presence.

“Heya Buddy.. you missed all the fun.” He smiled, trying to joke through the pain.

“It doesn’t seem very fun.” Jack said not understanding the sarcasm as usual.
Dean chuckled, he was just like Cas, like father, like son.

Jack's footsteps were measured as he approached Dean, his smile fading into a solemn, intense expression. His eyes locked onto Dean's, filled with a deep concern and determination.

“I came to talk..” he said gently, gazing down to the floor.

“Well you have good timing..” Dean forced a weak joke, trying to mask the unease creeping over him. He knew Jack's presence meant something was up – the Nephilim wouldn’t show up without a reason. Dean's mind racing, he wondered if Jack was there to save him, but the delay was unnerving. Why hadn't Jack acted already?

“Dean, when I promised not to interfere, I meant it..”

He started to pace.

“And I want you to know that I intend to keep my promise.. to a point, I don’t and won’t interfere.. I can’t save your life, there is only one thing I can do for you.”

Dean's mind reeled in confusion – if Jack wasn't here to save him, what was the point of his arrival? The timing seemed cruel, taunting Dean with a presence that could offer no reprieve.

“Then why are you here Jack?” Dean's mind fogged with pain and frustration, he struggled to see the purpose of this conversation. Though the agony had momentarily receded, it still seared through him, lingering just beneath the surface, waiting to surge back. What was the point of talking when all he could think about was the feeling of him being ripped apart from the inside?

Jack stopped and looked at Dean.

“Fate and destiny are just illusions with Chuck no longer in charge – your choices are what shape your paths. I can see the multitude of possible outcomes for every soul, but the narrative is yours to author, not mine."

“Ok..” Dean was still confused.

“I've made my share of decisions that have ripple effects on others, but I've never claimed to dictate the course of someone's life or reveal the ending of their story. My role is not to shape their destiny or offer them foresight, but to respond to the choices they make.” Jack began to pace again.

“So this is how my story ends? A stupid piece of metal sticking out of a fucking post? After everything I’ve done for this world?” Dean grew angry, and the pain radiating through his chest grew more intense.

“That’s up to you Dean.” Jack's gaze swung back to Dean, and he took another step closer, his expression darkening with worry. His eyes locked onto Dean's, filled with an unmistakable concern for his well-being.

“"You, Dean Winchester, stand at a crossroads with two paths ahead of you," Jack's gaze bore into Dean's soul, "and after everything you've done, I owe you the truth – I'll show you the consequences of each choice, so you can decide your fate."

“First option: you choose to fight, to live. Sam gets you off that rebar, and you survive. You'll suffer, be in pain, and face months of recovery before you can even leave your hospital bed. But you'll live. And you and Sam will spend the rest of your years together, hunting."

 

Dean's instincts screamed that there was more to it – there always was a catch.

“And?" he pressed, his eyes locked on Jack's, knowing that the Nephilim had revealed only part of the story. If survival was the outcome, there had to be a price to pay.

“You and Sam continue hunting after you recover, but the injury leaves a lasting impact. Twelve years from now, while fighting a pack of werewolves, your old wound makes you vulnerable. Sam comes to your aid, but he's attacked... and he dies. You follow minutes later, bleeding out, you die fighting side by side, but together, you both make it to heaven."

“Jesus..” Dean knew this was always his likely end, and to be honest, after losing Cas, it felt almost fitting. Not that he wanted to go so soon – Cas had given his life for Dean, and he knew he had to keep moving forward, to make that sacrifice count. But the thought of Sam suffering a tragic fate was unbearable, especially if it happened while he was protecting Dean. He deserved better.

The image Jack had painted earlier replayed in his mind, and Dean's heart ached at the thought of Sam going suffering like that. After everything they'd been through together, Dean couldn't stomach the idea of Sam's life having such a tragic end, all because of him.

“What’s the second option?” A sharp wince crossed Dean's face as the metal shard lodged in his back seemed to twist and pinch at his internal organs, sending a searing jolt of pain through him.

“You choose to surrender, to let go and end your story on earth. You ask Sam to stay with you, to hold you close, and refuse his pleas to fetch help. In your final moments, you bid your brother farewell, and slip away in peace, surrounded by your brother’s love."

“Okay, what's the catch this time?" Dean asked, his voice laced with skepticism. Jack's expression remained unreadable as he replied.

“There is no catch... you go to heaven now." Dean's eyes searched Jack's face for any hint of a twist, but Jack's blank visage offered none.

"And spend my afterlife in blissful memories while Sam suffers, grieves, and possibly risks everything to bring me back, only to end up getting himself killed in some other stupid way?” Dean's gut told him something would screw up – it always did. There was no way it could be that simple.

“No Dean..” Jack's gaze softened, his expression understanding as he met Dean's skeptical eyes. He knew Dean's hesitation stemmed from a lifetime of bad odds and unfavorable outcomes – nothing usually went right for the Winchesters.

“"I've changed Heaven. It's not about reliving memories anymore. Everyone's together, in harmony, no walls or divisions. It's how it's supposed to be. Your friends are there, Dean. Your family.” Jack paused.

“Castiel's there, waiting for you..” A hint of guilt crept into his voice as he admitted it.

Dean's eyes widened in stunned silence.

“Cas? How did you...?" His voice trailed off as a mix of emotions swirled inside him. Excitement and happiness at Cas's return battled with unease, sparked by the memory of their last encounter. Cas had confessed his feelings, and Dean's mind still reeled from the revelation. The weight of those three words – "I love you" – hung in the air, heavy with implication. Had Cas stayed away because he feared rejection? Did he think Dean couldn't return his feelings? The uncertainty gnawed at Dean, leaving him wondering what to say or do next.

"I didn't want to tell you, and I'm sorry... I did it right before I promised not to interfere. It only took a moment – I made the choice when I brought everyone else back.”

"What did you do, Jack?" Dean growled, his voice tight with anger and frustration. This was exactly what always happened – someone made a stupid decision, thinking it was right, and everything went to hell. Dean, Castiel, Sam, and now Jack – all of them seemed to follow the same pattern.

"I didn't do anything stupid. Cas is different – he's an angel, with grace. But he was also human several times, and he felt human emotions – he hurt, he cried, he loved..." His voice trailed off, a moment of reflection hanging in the air.

“Cas has a soul.. souls don’t belong in The Empty. He belonged in Heaven. I just put him where he was supposed to be.. that part of him at least.”

"So he's alive?" Dean asked, his voice laced with hope, despite the agony of the metal piercing his body.

“Technically no. He’s dead.. he’s in heaven, which is why he can’t leave. Not anymore..He’s not really an angel - I had to leave his Grace in the Empty. I could only bring his human soul to Heaven - He’s still Cas, he’s just human now..”

A deep breath shuddered out of Dean as relief washed over him – Cas was alive. For a moment, the pain receded, and all that mattered was that Cas was okay. And in Heaven, he'd be safe.

“He’s waiting for you.. he prays to me, he asks me if I can bring him to you.. but I can’t do that, I can’t answer his prayers.” Jack sighed with heavy regret.

“But... you have the power to choose, Dean. You could go to him right now, be reunited with Cas, and find happiness in heaven together." Jack's tone shifted, infused with a glimmer of hope.

Dean's mind was a whirlwind of emotions as he thought of seeing Cas again. The prospect of being reunited with the angel sent butterflies fluttering in his stomach and his heart racing with anticipation. But amidst the excitement, a morbid reality checked in - he was going to have to die. As he replayed all the unspoken words and unresolved feelings, a pang of guilt hit him. Sam. What would happen to his brother? Would Sam be okay without him? The concern for his brother's well-being momentarily eclipsed the longing to see Cas, and Dean's thoughts became a jumbled mix of love, mortality, and family.

“And Sammy? You still haven't told me what happens to him?" Dean's eyes locked onto Jack's, his voice urgent – Sam's fate was all that mattered. He wouldn't let his brother suffer.

“Sam grieves, he suffers... but he finds a way to heal. He takes on one final case, then hangs up his guns for good. He marries Eileen, they have a son... and they name him Dean." Dean's eyes welled up with tears as Jack continued.

"Sam grows old, surrounded by love, and dies in his son's arms. Though he misses you every day, he's lived a long, full life, filled with moments of true happiness."

“For real? That's it? Sam grows old and dies happy?" Dean's voice was laced with a mix of relief and lingering sadness, searching for reassurance that this future was truly a good one.

His eyes brimmed with unshed tears as he struggled to keep his emotions in check. The decision felt almost effortless, yet it was somehow the most gut-wrenching one he'd ever faced.

“Yes, Dean. I told you, I don't dictate the story – people make their own choices. After everything you've done for me, I wanted you to know your sacrifice would have meaning this time. You would finally be making the right choice. And when Sam passes, he'll join you in heaven. For him, it'll be a lifetime, but for you, it'll feel like mere hours."

Jack's words were a gentle promise, a reassurance that Dean's decision would bring him and Sam peace. He stepped closer, his movements gentle, and covered Dean's clenched fist with his palm, trying to offer comfort as Dean's hand grasped desperately at the pain in his chest.

He's acutely aware of Dean's impending decision, knowing the Winchester brothers' fate is all but sealed. Jack is certain Dean understands the bittersweet truth - after all they've endured, peace and happiness might only be attainable through sacrifice. This realization fuels Jack's desire to offer Dean choices, to present him with possibilities. Historically, Dean and Sam have prioritized each other's well-being above all else, regardless of the consequences. Now, they have a chance to truly save each other, to find solace in letting go. All Dean needs to do is release his grip, and persuade Sam to do the same, allowing them both to finally find peace.

Dean sighed heavily.

“That’s it? I get to say goodbye and I go? You promise I stay gone and Sammy gets to have a life?” A sense of peace settled over him, born from the weight of his choice.

“Yes Dean.” Jack nodded, His hand still resting on Dean’s, reassuringly.

Dean lifted his gaze to the barn's ceiling, a sense of resolve settling within him. This was it – the right decision. Sam would be okay, living a long and fulfilling life, and he'd see Cas again soon.

“Okay..” Dean said, his sigh heavy with resignation.

Jack's eyes met Dean's, filled with deep gratitude. He owed his life to Dean, Sam, and Cas, and he wanted to repay that debt in the best way he could. This would be his final act, a gesture of love and appreciation. He couldn't favor them over others in heaven or on earth, but he could give them one last gift – the chance to find happiness and joy, just as they had brought it to him during his time on earth. They deserved it.

With a sense of peace, Jack's gaze lingered on Dean's, a silent thank you conveyed between them.

“Goodbye Dean.” As he squeezed Dean’s hand.

“Bye kid.. thank you.” He smiled and squeezed Jack’s hand back.

Dean blinked, and suddenly Jack vanished – time snapped back into motion.

“Yea.. I’ll call for help.. I’ll get the first aid kit..” Sam was turning to leave.

The agony resurfaced, intensified. His chest constricted, heavy with the weight of accumulating blood, each breath a tortured struggle. The pain escalated with every inhalation, a crushing pressure that threatened to suffocate him.

“Sam..Sam.. Sam..” Fear gripped him – he couldn't let Sam leave, not when he might try to find help. He had to keep Sam close, to ensure he'd stay out of it this time.

Sam's gaze snapped back to Dean, and the look on his brother's face sent a wave of terror washing over him. Fear and anxiety etched themselves on Sam's features as he realized Dean was slipping away. He couldn't let that happen – not without a fight. Sam knew better than to expect a miracle this time; Dean's survival wouldn't come easily. If he died, the cost of bringing him back would be steep, and Sam would have to pay it.

"Stay...stay with me..." Dean's voice strained, the words barely escaping his lips. He needed Sam to hear him, to be there in his final moments. As his vision blurred, Dean's plea became more desperate.

“Stay with me, please." Despite knowing he'd be okay, and Sam would find a way to move on, fear gripped him. This time, death wasn't quick or numb; it was a slow, agonizing crawl. The pain was both physical and emotional, and the tears welling up in Sam's eyes only amplified Dean's terror. All he could do was hope that what Jack said was right, and this sacrifice would bring peace to the brother he loved so dearly.

“Ok.. yeah..” Sam straightened his posture, trying to stay strong for Dean.

“Ok..” Dean exhaled a short breath loudly.

“Uhhh right..” Time was running out – he was fading fast, and every word counted. He needed to talk faster.

“Alright listen to me..ummm..” He hesitated, drawing a shaky breath as he struggled to lift his gaze to Sam's face – afraid that if he met his brother's eyes, he'd shatter into tears.

“You get those boys and you get them someplace safe alright?” With a quiet resolve, he blinked, and finally found the strength to meet Sam's gaze, his emotions tenuously held in check.

Sam's breath caught, and he shifted uncomfortably, stunned by the sense that his brother was surrendering – as if Dean had already given up the fight.

“Dean.. we are going to get them some where safe..” Sam stated, refusing to accept what was happening in front of him.

Tears welled up in Dean's eyes as he locked gazes with Sam, his heart slowing its rhythm as he shook his head, a fragile smile flickering on his lips.

“No..you knew it was always going to end like this for me..” Dean said, forcing a reassuring tone, trying to convince his brother – and maybe himself – that he was at peace with this.

Sam shook his head in return out of disbelief.

“It’s supposed to end like this right?” Dean asked as they both tried to hold back their tears.

“Saving people, hunting things, it’s what we do.. “ Dean said with a soft nostalgic smile.

“No. Stop!.. Just stop” Sam didn’t want to hear it.

“It’s ok.. it’s ok.. it’s good.. it’s good..” he nodded, thinking of Cas and the life he knew Sam had ahead of him, it was good, he would be okay, they would both be okay, he smiled.

“We had one hell of a ride man.”

Sam's gaze was fixed on Dean, bewildered by the calm acceptance etched on his brother's face – Dean's gentle smile only deepening the confusion.

“I will find a way ok, I will find another way..” Panic set in as Sam watched the green in Dean's eyes start to fade, a desperate sense of loss washing over him.

The pain was slowly receding, Dean realized as he drew a ragged breath – the ache in his chest easing ever so slightly.

“No..no, no, no, no, no. No bringing me back ok, you know that always ends bad.” Talking was getting harder, he started to gasp for breath.

“Ugh.. ok.”

“Dean.. please..” Sam begged.

“I’m fading pretty quick, so.. there are a few things I need you to hear, come here.” With each breath a struggle, Dean reached out, his fingers clawing for Sam's shirt as he pulled him close – his vision blurring, darkness creeping in at the edges.

“Let me look at you.” Dean's gaze locked onto Sam's, his eyes straining to stay open, fighting to hold the connection as his lids threatened to drift shut.

“There he is….I’m so proud of you Sam. Do you know that?” Tears building in his eyes.

Tears streamed down Sam's face, no longer able to hold back the emotion as Dean's words continued, his voice cracking with each syllable.

“I’ve always looked up to you. When we were kids, you were so damn sma..” Dean winced. It was coming faster now..

“Smart.. you never took any of Dad’s crap, I never knew how you did that.. and you are stronger than me, you always have been..” he continued.

Sam's mind went blank, words deserting him as reality sunk in. This couldn't be happening. Not now. Not like this. They'd taken on countless cases, faced unimaginable horrors, and survived. This one was supposed to be routine – a simple vampire hunt. Not a death sentence. The injustice of it choked him, leaving him mute and frozen in despair.

“Did I ever tell.. did I ever tell you, that night that I uh.. that I ca.. came for you at school? You know when Dad hadn’t come back from his hunting trip?” Dean struggled with his words now.

Sam Nodded.

“Yea the woman in white.” He was trying to keep it together and failing.

“The woman in white, that’s right.” Dean's eyes drifted shut, and he nodded weakly, his grip on Sam's coat tightening as his strength waned. Holding his arm up without support was growing more labored by the second, but he clung to Sam's coat like a lifeline, his fingers twisting in the fabric as if it was all that anchored him to the world.

“I must have stood outside your dorm for hours.. because I didn’t know what you would say..” Dean admitted.

“I thought you would tell me to get lost or get dead, and I don’t know what I would have done if I didn’t have you..cuz I was so scared, I was scared.. cuz when it all came down to it, it was always you and me… it’s always been you and me.” That same fear crept in again, but this time it was tempered by the warmth of Sam's presence. Dean was grateful he wasn't alone – having Sam by his side made the thought of death slightly more bearable.

Sam nodded, a lump forming in his throat. He knew Dean's time was running out, but the thought of losing him was suffocating. Dean had always been more than just a brother – he'd been Sam's rock, his best friend, his guiding light. The idea of navigating life without Dean's presence, his wisdom, and his support was unimaginable. How could he possibly forge a path forward without the person who'd been by his side through every trial and tribulation? The thought of a life without Dean was a void Sam couldn't begin to comprehend.

“Don’t leave me..I can’t do this alone..” Sam cried looking down at the floor.

“Yes you can.” Dean replied with a quiet conviction in his voice, knowing Sam wouldn’t be alone, not for long, he would be okay, he would be happy, he would have a family.

“Well I don’t want to.” He raised his eyes to meet Dean’s again and Dean smirked.

“I'm not leaving you," Dean whispered, his voice barely audible.

“I'm going to be with you... right here..”he said, his fingers tapping gently on Sam's chest, over his heart.

“Everyday you are out there, and you’re livin’ and you’re fighting.. cuz you.. you always keep fighting..you hear me?” Dean said with a shaky voice.

“Every step, I’ll be there.. every step. I love you so much. My baby brother..”

Sam's body shook with sobs, but Dean's face cracked with a tender smile, his own tears streaming down his face.

“Aw man.. well I did not think this would be the day..but it is.. it is.. and that’s okay..I need you to promise me.. I need you to tell me that it’s okay..” Dean knew the moment had come, but Sam's head jerked in denial, still struggling to accept that Dean was slipping away.

“Look at me.. look at me..” Dean begged.

Sam's gaze clung to Dean's pale face, the spark in his eyes dwindling rapidly, as if the light was being snuffed out before his very eyes.

“I need you to tell me it’s okay.. I need.. I need you to tell me it’s ok.” Dean whispered urgently, his voice a fragile plea – he needed Sam to say the words, to give him permission, to promise he wouldn't try to bring him back.

“You tell me it’s okay..” Dean's voice was a faint whisper, his breathing shallow and labored. Sam reached up, his hand enveloping Dean's, which still grasped his chest. Their eyes locked in a final, desperate gaze, both pairs red-rimmed and tear-stained.

“Dean.. it’s ok..”

Dean's vision was fading, his breaths reduced to shallow gasps. Sam's grip on his hand tightened, a desperate attempt to anchor Dean to the present, to let him know he wasn't alone. Sam held on tight, ensuring Dean felt his presence until the very end.

“It’s okay.. you can go now.” Sam nodded, and with his last ounces of strength, Dean lifted his free hand, laying it on top of Sam's – their hands stacked, a fragile, tender connection.

Dean's body was spent, his time slipping away. With a gentle intimacy, Sam leaned in, resting his forehead against Dean's. It was a tender, final gesture, offering Dean a place to rest his head in his last moments. As their skin touched, a soft, knowing smile spread across both their faces.

“Bye Sam.” As Dean's hand slipped from Sam's, crashing to his side, Sam felt the weight of Dean's body sag against him as he drew one last, ragged breath – Dean's form crumpled, his head dropping onto Sam's shoulder.

Sam stood frozen in grief, clutching Dean's lifeless body as tears streamed down his face. Time lost all meaning as he held his brother for what felt like an eternity, the weight of his loss crushing him.

Eventually, with all his might, Sam summoned the strength to gently ease Dean off the metal shard, wrap him in a sheet from the trunk, and cradle him in his arms.

The Impala waited, its familiar shape a bittersweet reminder of the countless adventures they'd shared. With a heavy heart, Sam carried Dean to the car, preparing to drive him home to the bunker for the last time.

Chapter 2: The only exception.

Summary:

Dean Winchester was gone, his journey on earth finally at an end.

He'd made the ultimate sacrifice, giving up his life for his brother's happiness, for his own peace.

And in death, he'd found eternal bliss – finally reunited with his angel, in a heaven where they could be together, free from the trials and tribulations of the world.

The pain seeped away, and Dean felt his final breath escape his lips. Peace washed over him, a soothing light enveloping him like a warm blanket. The fight was finally over.

But as the light faded, Dean found himself standing on a winding dirt road, surrounded by mountains that stretched towards the sky. The crisp air stung his cheeks, and he breathed it in deeply, feeling invigorated. It felt soothingly familiar.

Dean turned, taking in the breathtaking scenery. So this was heaven. Jack had been right – it was different, and it was stunning. His gaze landed on a glint of black metal beside him, and his eyes widened in surprise.

“Oh wow! Hi, baby!" he exclaimed, rushing over to the Impala, which sat gleaming in the sunlight on the side of the road, waiting for him. Dean bent down, peering through the window, his eyes tracing the familiar contours of the worn leather seats, every tear, cut, stain, and burn exactly as he remembered.

“Hello, Dean." The familiar voice made his heart stutter. Dean stood up, his eyes rising over the roof of the Impala, he wasn’t sure how he didn’t see him before, but there he was – Castiel, looking as real and solid as ever.

“Cas.” Dean breathed, his smile softening into a look of tender longing.

"How did you know I'd be here?" Dean asked, curious about how Cas had pinpointed his arrival in what seemed like the middle of nowhere.

“Jack told me," Cas replied. "

“He came to me, handed me the keys to your car, and told me where to meet you. Then he vanished."

Dean's gaze dropped to the ground, a soft smile playing on his lips as he felt a surge of gratitude toward Jack for orchestrating this reunion. But beneath the smile, his stomach twisted with anxiety – there were still so many unspoken words between him and Cas. He didn’t even know where to start.

“Cas, I—" Dean began, but Cas cut him off, circling the Impala to stand face-to-face with him by the driver's side door. Uncertainty etched his features.

“I'm sorry I burdened you with my confession, I didn't know..." His gaze dropped to the ground, shame creeping into his expression.

“No, Cas, don't," Dean said softly, his eyes searching for Cas's, trying to lift the weight of shame from his face.

What happened that day was Dean's fault – he'd provoked Chuck, made the reckless mistake of attacking Billy, and earned the wrath of Death itself. If it wasn't for Dean's actions, Cas would have never had to summon The Empty. Shame should be his to bear, not Cas's.

Dean was also uncertain how to broach what had happened in the dungeon – Cas's raw confession, made in the moments before he'd been torn away into The Empty's darkness. Dean had never been good at navigating these kinds of conversations, and he didn't want to mess this up. He took a deep breath, trying to calm the nervous flutter in his stomach.

Cas stood in silence, his gaze fixed on the ground, as Dean inched closer.

"Cas..." Dean whispered, his voice low and nervous.

“When you said all that stuff in the dungeon..." He trailed off, unable to repeat Cas's words.

Cas's eyes finally met Dean's, tears shining in their depths.

“Dean, please, I don't expect you to return my feelings," Cas said, his voice barely above a whisper.

“I didn't know if I'd ever see you again, I have no expectations. I just needed you to know..." His words faded away, leaving only the weight of his emotions hanging in the air.

"I know, Cas, I know..” Dean said, his heart heavy from the emotion etched on Cas's face.

He hated seeing Cas hurt, feeling his pain like it was his own. Dean took a deep breath, his voice barely above a whisper.

“Cas..." He reached out, hesitantly, and gently wrapped his fingers around Cas's.

“I need to tell you... ever since then, I've wanted to tell you..." Tears began to well up in his eyes as he looked at Cas.

"You've changed me too, Cas. I'm who I am because of you. You gave up everything for me, more than once." Cas's fingers squeezed his gently, offering comfort. Dean's voice cracked as he continued.

“You've seen me at my worst.. screwing up time and time again. I've pushed you away, forced you out of my life, but you always come back. You're always there, every time I need you. Everyone always left me, or gave up on me, even Sam a few times, but you.. you were the only exception.” Tears spilled down Dean's face as he gazed into Cas's sapphire eyes.

A soft smile spread across Cas's face, his eyes shining with emotion.

"You're my best friend, Cas, and I..." Dean's voice cracked, uncertainty lingering in his eyes.

Was he ready for this? Did he deserve it? He took a deep breath and let the words spill out.

“I love you too, Cas." Suddenly, maintaining eye contact became impossible; Dean's gaze dropped, his emotions raw and overwhelming. For someone who'd never been good at this side of love, the intensity was almost suffocating.

Cas could see the weight of it all bearing down on Dean, and he didn't want to push him further. Dean was still processing, still catching up, while Cas had accepted his feelings long ago. Cas wanted Dean to take his time, to breathe, to let the emotions settle without pressure or expectation. He placed his hand on Dean’s shoulder.

"Dean?" Cas asked softly.

“Yeah," Dean replied, wiping away his tears.

“Why don't we go for a drive?" Cas suggested, wanting to shift the focus away from the heavy emotions and give Dean a chance to breathe. He wanted to show Dean the beauty of Heaven, share with him the plans he'd helped Jack make after Chuck's defeat.

“Yeah, I'd like that," Dean said, nodding, though the weight of his newly spoken feelings still lingered, a complex mix of relief, joy, and vulnerability.

Cas pulled the keys from his pocket and handed them to Dean, the familiar keychain dangling from the ring. Dean's fingers closed around the keys, a sense of nostalgia washing over him – he had Cas back, he had the Impala back. A drive with his best friend, just like old times, it sounded perfect.

He loved the long rides with Cas, whether they spent hours talking, sharing stories, or listening to music, with Dean introducing Cas to his favorite bands and songs.

Sometimes they'd sit in comfortable silence, the quiet companionship a balm to Dean's soul. Cas's presence had always been a source of comfort, and now, with him by his side again, Dean felt a deep sense of peace.

As they settled into the car, Dean's hand drifted over the steering wheel, a familiar gesture.

“Where to?" he asked Cas, and he started the engine, a calm happiness spreading across his face.

Cas’s eyes crinkled at the corners as he smiled.

“I know a place."

The silence between them was comfortable, soothing them as they drove, the only sound the hum of the engine and the gentle rhythm of the road. No words were needed; the simple presence of each other was enough to bring peace and calm.

Night had fallen, casting a dark veil over the landscape as they drove down the winding gravel road, the towering redwoods looming above, their branches a dense canopy that blocked out the stars and night sky.

"Turn up here," Cas said, pointing to a narrow dirt path.

“If we weren't in Heaven, I'd say this is how most horror movies start," Dean joked, raising an eyebrow. Cas's expression was serious.

“Well, it's going to get worse before it gets better." The Impala bumped along the tiny road, barely wide enough for the car to fit.

“Pull over just up here," Cas instructed.
Dean's skeptical gaze met his.

“Oh, okay..” he drawled, bringing the car to a stop and killing the engine.

As Cas opened the passenger door and stepped out into the darkness, Dean looked at Cas like he was crazy.

“Just trust me, follow me," Cas said, reassuringly, ducking under low-hanging branches and vanishing into the darkness.

“We only have to go about 10 feet." Dean heard his voice barely above a whisper through the thickness of the trees.

Dean rolled his eyes and followed, In life, Dean would never have wandered into a dark forest without his gun or knife, but in Heaven, those precautions were hopefully unnecessary, so he trailed behind Cas, the darkness swallowing them whole.

As Dean stumbled through the darkness, branches and rocks crunching beneath his feet, a sliver of light finally broke through the dense foliage, sparkling like a gemstone. As he drew closer, he realized it was the reflection of the night sky on a lake’s surface.

Emerging from the trees, it was much brighter, and he saw Cas standing in the moonlight, gazing up at the sky. Dean's eyes followed Cas's, and he understood why he'd been brought here.

The sight took his breath away – the stars shone with an unearthly brightness, galaxies visible to the naked eye. The northern lights danced across the sky, swirling greens, purples, and reds like a watercolor painting. The moon hung low, its craters etched in stunning detail. Dean had never seen anything like it, the beauty so profound it felt almost overwhelming.

“Wow, Cas... it's beautiful," Dean breathed, his eyes fixed on the breathtaking spectacle above. He didn't notice Cas turn to look at him, he was too captivated by the stars. Cas's gaze drifted to Dean's profile, studying the lines of his face.

“Yes, it is," he said softly, his eyes lingering on Dean's features. In that moment, Cas realized just how much he'd truly missed him.

Dean felt Cas's gaze on his face and turned to meet it, his heart skipping a beat as he understood Cas wasn't talking about the sky. A soft smile spread across his face, and his eyes shimmered with tears of joy, the emotion welling up from deep within.

He wanted to tell Cas how he felt, but the words got stuck in his throat. He took a deep breath, gathering courage.

“Cas... the day I lost you, I lost a piece of myself too," he said, his voice barely above a whisper. He stepped closer, his eyes locked on Cas's.

“And I want you to know, I tried... I tried to find you, I tried to pray to you." Tears streamed down his face as Cas's gaze held him, a deep, piercing look that seemed to see right through to his soul.

“"I wanted to give up so many times after you left," Dean's voice cracked with emotion.

"The only thing that kept me going was the sacrifice you made for me." He reached out, his fingers wrapping tightly around Cas's hand, needing the physical connection.

“When Jack told me Sam would be okay and I could see you again, I knew that's what I had to do. I didn't want to just go through the motions anymore, pretending to be okay. I just wanted to see you... I just wanted to be happy." His eyes poured into Cas's, the sincerity and longing palpable.

“Dean I..” Cas tried to interject but Dean cut him off.

“"I need you, Cas," Dean's voice was barely above a whisper.

“I don't know what that means for us, or what will happen next, but I know I need you. And I know now that I love you too." He took a step closer, his eyes locked on Cas's.

"And I don't just want to say it – I want to show you, to prove it to you, in every way that matters.”

Dean wasn't great with words, so he thought maybe the best way to show Cas how much he meant to him was to let his actions speak louder. He slowly leaned in, his soft lips brushing against Cas's, a gentle, tender kiss that conveyed the emotions he struggled to put into words, still somehow he worried Cas would push him away.

Cas's hand shot up, grasping the front of Dean's coat, and he yanked him in, their lips crashing together in a fierce, tender kiss. The passion was palpable, a potent mix of tenderness and intensity that seemed to burn between them.

Dean's hands instinctively rose to Cas's waist, pulling their bodies together as their lips moved in perfect sync. He wrapped his arms tightly around Cas, holding him close. Meanwhile, Cas slid his fingers through the sandy brown hair at the back of Dean's head, the gentle touch sending shivers down Dean's spine.

He needed to pull back, his desire for Cas threatening to overwhelm him. Cas's touch ignited a fire in his veins, and Dean's instincts screamed to take him right there. But he wanted this moment to be special, not some rushed encounter on the ground.

He wanted to savor it, to make it perfect. The beauty of their surroundings wasn't enough to make him compromise on that.

"Cas, wait," Dean said, reluctantly pulling away from the angel's touch. He took a deep breath, trying to calm the fire burning within him.

"Is everything okay? Did I do something wrong?" he asked, his voice tinged with uncertainty. Cas's eyes searched Dean’s face, concern etched on his features.

We need...a better place," Dean replied, his voice husky with desire.

Dean's face lit up with a smile as he realized the perfect solution.

“The car.” he said, his eyes sparkling with excitement.

It was a haven they'd shared for so long, a place where they'd created countless memories. He knew it was where they should be, where this moment would be perfect.

Dean pulled Cas back through the dark forest, their hands entwined, the tension between them palpable. As the Impala came into view, Dean's desire surged. He spun Cas around, pushing him against the rear driver's side door, and claimed his lips in a searing kiss. For a moment, they lost themselves in each other. Then Dean pulled back, his eyes searching Cas's face.

“Is this what you want, Cas?" he asked, his voice low and husky, making sure Cas felt no pressure. Cas's gaze locked onto Dean's, his eyes burning with passion.

“Yes, Dean. I've longed for this," he whispered, his hands framing Dean's face, drawing him back in for another kiss.

Their hands flew over each other, frantically stripping away the layers of clothing that stood between them.

Cas reached for Dean’s belt buckle, his fingers pausing as he noticed the tension in Dean’s jeans — a clear sign that he wanted this just as much. Slowly, Cas let his hand glide over the firm outline pressing beneath the denim as the angel’s touch sent shivers of ecstasy rippling through Dean, drawing a soft moan from his lips.

The heat between them deepened, crackling in the space they shared. Dean’s hand found the door to the Impala, his touch lingering on Cas as he gently moved him aside. Without a word, he opened it, the unspoken urgency between them pulling them toward the privacy of the back seat.

He tumbled back onto the cold leather, yanking Cas down with him. Cas landed on top, their lips meeting in a fiery kiss as they wrapped their arms around each other, the cramped space forgotten in the heat of the moment.

Dean's hands trembled with anticipation as he tugged at Cas's pants. Never had Dean imagined their bond would ignite into this all-consuming passion. Through battles and bloodshed, they'd forged an unbreakable tie, but this was a depth of intimacy he'd never anticipated sharing with Cas.

The Impala's backseat, though spacious, proved a tight fit for two grown men wrestling to undress each other. Dean's patience snapped, and he ripped open Cas's shirt, the pale moonlight casting a silver glow over the angel's chiseled body. Cas didn't flinch, his eyes locked on Dean's, his own hands tearing at Dean's clothes with equal urgency.

As the last of Cas's clothing fell away, Dean's excited gaze roamed over the angel's majestic form, drinking in the sight of his chiseled physique. His eyes followed the defined creases of muscle in Cas's chest, and he reached out a trembling hand to trace them with his fingertips, his touch feather-light.

The gentle touch of Dean's fingers sent shivers throughout Cas's body, igniting a primal desire for more.

Cas let out a low, husky groan, his eyes burning with a fierce need to see and touch every inch of Dean's tender skin. His own fingers began to tremble with anticipation as he reached for the last of Dean's clothes, driven by an insatiable hunger to explore the hunter's body.

Cas tugged at the belt loops, working in tandem with Dean to slide his jeans and boxers down his legs. Together, they managed to free Dean from his clothes, Cas's hands moving with eager precision as he helped Dean escape the tangled fabric.

As Dean's clothes fell away, Cas's eyes widened in admiration, taking in the sight of Dean's strong, lean body. Dean felt a rush of vulnerability, but Cas's gaze was filled with adoration and desire, putting him at ease. Cas's hands reached out, tracing the lines of Dean's muscles, his fingers dancing down Dean's chest. Dean shuddered, his body responding to Cas's touch, and he knew he was ready to give himself to Cas completely.

As Cas's eyes met Dean's, he saw the same longing reflected back. This was one of the few things he'd ever truly desired, and knowing Dean felt the same sent his heart soaring. He yearned to give Dean everything, to lavish him with love and affection. Dean deserved nothing but the best, and Cas wanted to be the one to give it to him.

His inexperience sparked a flutter of anxiety, but as he gazed at Dean's strong, chiseled form, his body seemed to guide him. The contours of Dean's physique became a map, leading him instinctively to the places that would bring the most pleasure to the hunter he adored.

He crushed his lips to Dean's, their mouths melding in a passionate kiss. His teeth nipped at Dean's lips, sending shivers through both of them. As Dean moaned, he trailed his mouth down to the hunter's neck, his lips and tongue tracing a path of gentle bites and soothing kisses. He continued his journey down Dean's chest, the salty taste of sweat on his skin only adding to the intimacy of the moment. Every kiss, every lick, every nibble seemed to draw more pleasure from Dean's body, and he reveled in the hunter's unrestrained responses.

The sensations rippling through Dean's body were almost too much to bear as Cas's mouth continued its downward path. Soft, gentle kisses on the inside of Dean's thighs sent shivers coursing through him, the tender touch igniting a fire that threatened to consume him whole.

“Fuck Cas” A low, gruff moan escaped his lips.

Cas hesitated, his inexperience causing a moment's pause, as he searched Dean's face for guidance or reassurance.

"I need you, Cas. I need this.” Dean whispered, his voice husky with desire, reassuring the angel with a gentle smile, whose face was now inches away from his throbbing cock.

Cas reached up and placed a hand around Dean’s swollen head, the angel's touch was all it took to push him to the brink, and Dean had to bite back a cry of pure, unadulterated pleasure. He looked down at Cas as he took the rest of Dean into his mouth and he felt his cock hit the back hit the back of Cas’s warm throat.

He'd never imagined the depths of pleasure Cas could awaken within him. It was a sensation that felt both forbidden and transcendent, a paradox of sin and sacredness.

Despite his vast experience with others, Dean had never known pleasure like this. It was as if Cas awakened a part of him he'd never accessed before. In this moment, he felt an unshakeable connection, a sense that they were truly destined for each other. He yearned to explore every inch of Cas's body, and he knew the angel felt the same. As waves of pleasure washed over him, it dawned on Dean that they now had all eternity to indulge in each other's desires, to learn and discover together.

He craved more, every inch of Cas's body, every whispered promise, every tender touch.

He couldn't take the anticipation anymore, and with a fierce urgency, he grasped the back of Cas's head, tangling his fingers in the angel's hair. He yanked Cas upward, their lips colliding in a passionate, tongue-entwined kiss that left them both breathless.

As they broke apart for a fleeting moment, gasping for air, Dean's eyes locked onto Cas's, the intensity of their connection almost palpable. Then, with a hunger that couldn't be satiated, they crashed into each other again, lips and tongues melding in a dance of desire. Dean's hands roamed over Cas's body, tracing the contours of his skin, while Cas's fingers dug deep into Dean's shoulders, holding on as if he'd never let go. The world around them melted away, leaving only the thrum of their hearts and the whispered promises of their kiss.

They both hungered for more, their desire a palpable ache that couldn't be ignored. And then, a spark of memory ignited in Dean's mind - if Jack had replicated the Impala in heaven with perfect fidelity, that meant the glove compartment still held its secret stash, including the bottle of lube.

"Wait, Cas... the glove compartment," Dean whispered, his voice cracking with anticipation.

“Can you reach it?"

Cas's brow furrowed in confusion, but he nodded, replying softly.

“Yes." The uncertainty in his eyes betrayed his curiosity about Dean's sudden focus on the compartment.

“Reach in and grab the small black bottle.”

Cas reached towards the front of the car, popping open the glove compartment and moved the contents around trying to find the small bottle Dean had asked for.

As Cas rummaged through the glove compartment, Dean's gaze drifted over the angel's body, tracing the curves and lines of his form. Nervous anticipation fluttered in Dean's chest; despite his experience, he felt a flutter of uncertainty about what was to come. But he knew Cas would be gentle, that he'd take things slow, and the thought calmed Dean's nerves, filling him with trust, and quelling his anxiety.

“Got it.” Cas confirmed that he had found what Dean was looking for.

Cas handed Dean the small bottle, their fingers touching briefly as Dean took it. With a deliberate movement, Dean opened the bottle and squeezed a small amount of lubricant into his palm. Cas's face reflected a mix of curiosity and desire, his eyes locked on Dean's with an unspoken promise: whatever Dean wanted, Cas would give.

Dean reached down with his lubed hand, grabbing Cas’s hard cock, it was bigger than Dean thought it would be, though only slightly bigger than his own, he let his hand slide up and down Cas’s thickness, coating him in the lube before letting go and grabbing the bottle again to squeeze more lube into his hand.

Cas struggled to contain his muffled moans, the sensations overwhelming him as pleasure coiled tightly within. It was more than he'd ever dared imagine, a force that threatened to consume him whole.

Dean took a slow, deliberate breath as he prepared himself, his hands moving with a calm he didn't entirely feel. He knew the pain was inevitable, but he also knew it would be worth it – every moment, every sensation, every shared intimacy with Cas.

Dean's gaze locked onto Cas's, and he saw a burning flame of love and yearning reflected back. In that moment, they were both poised on the edge, ready to take the next step together, their hearts and bodies aligned in perfect synchrony.

“Cas.. I want you to fuck me.” Dean admitted sheepishly.

Cas's face glowed with a mix of excitement and apprehension, his eyes sparkling with anticipation. He'd only experienced this once before, and the memory of differences in anatomy made him nervous – would he be able to satisfy Dean the way he wanted? The fear of not living up to Dean's expectations fluttered in his chest.

“Dean, I... what if I hurt you?" Cas's voice was laced with concern, his brow furrowed in worry.

He knew the pain was inevitable, but all he wanted was for Dean to feel nothing but pleasure, and the thought of causing him harm was almost unacceptable.

Dean's hand rose to gently caress Cas's face, his touch soothing the angel's concerns.

“You won't," he whispered, his smile warm and reassuring. Though he knew there would be pain, it didn't matter – all that mattered was being with Cas, having him, and feeling their connection deepen.

Dean slowly shifted, rolling onto his stomach across the sticky leather seat. Though he longed to maintain their intense gaze, he knew this position might be more practical. As he moved, Cas's hands followed, tracing the curves of Dean's back with a gentle, exploratory touch. He readied himself into position.

"I'm ready," Dean whispered softly, his words a gentle invitation, letting Cas know he was more than willing for what was to come.

Cas bent down, his lips tracing a gentle path along Dean's spine, each kiss a tender preparation for what was to follow.

As Cas gently pressed to tip of his cock into Dean, a muffled whimper escaped Dean’s lips his face pressed into the leather seat of the Impala as a sharp pain mingled with intense pleasure overwhelmed him, both sensations hitting him simultaneously.

Cas paused, not wanting to cause Dean any discomfort or distress.

“It’s okay Cas, keep going.” Dean reassured his angel.

Cas slowly began to thrust into him, going deeper with each movement of his hips as Dean writhed in pain and pleasure.

Cas' hands gripped Dean's hips tightly, his fingers digging into the soft flesh as he set a relentless pace. The impala filled with the sound of their labored breathing and the wet, rhythmic slapping of their bodies meeting. Dean's moans turned from pained whispers to louder, more desperate cries, his body trembling with each thrust.

"Fuck, Cas," Dean panted, his knuckles white as he clenched at the leather of the seat.

“Don't stop."

Dean let out a low groan, his body arching back to meet Cas' thrusts.

"More," he demanded, his voice hoarse with need.

Cas obliged, his hips moving faster and harder. He could feel Dean's body tensing, his muscles coiling tight as he approached the edge.

"Cum for me, Dean," Cas whispered, his voice a dark command.

"Let me feel you fall apart," Cas whispered, his fingers digging deep into Dean's shoulder – the same spot where he'd once grasped him to pull him from the depths of hell, and where he'd left a bloody handprint on Dean's coat the day he abandoned him. The memory and the moment collided as Cas's grip tightened.

Dean's response was a desperate cry, his body shuddering as he obeyed, his orgasm ripping through him with a force that left him gasping. Cas followed soon after, his own release exploding through him as he buried himself deep inside Dean, their bodies shaking and swaying in the aftermath as Cas collapsed on top of him.

They lay tangled in the back seat of the Impala, their sweat-dampened bodies wrapped around each other. Dean's fingers gently stroked Cas's hair as they basked in the warmth of their reunion. The promise of an eternity together stretched out before them, a future filled with possibility and love.

The silence was finally broken by Dean's chuckle.

"Well, that was amazing," he said, his eyes shining with adoration as he gazed down at Cas. Cas's face lit up with a mischievous grin.

“I learned some of that from the Pizza Man," he said, his voice laced with humor. Dean's laughter mingled with Cas's, the sound filling the air as they basked in the warmth of their love for each other.

Cas didn't want the moment to end, didn't want Dean to leave his side – he longed to stay wrapped in the hunter's arms forever. But the time Jack had foretold was drawing near, casting a shadow over their bliss.

“I love you, Dean," Cas whispered, saying it for the second time, but now it was different – he knew Dean felt the same. This time, he knew Dean would echo the words back to him, and he'd say them and hopefully hear them again and again, as often as he could.

“I love you too, Cas," Dean murmured, his voice filled with emotion as he tightened his embrace, holding Cas close. He pressed a tender kiss to the top of Cas's head, the gesture overflowing with affection.

Cas's eyes drifted closed as he absorbed the warmth of Dean's kiss and the gentle pressure of his arms. For a moment, the world outside the Impala's confines melted away, leaving only the two of them, suspended in a bubble of love and longing.

Cas's thoughts were a jumble of emotions as he clung to Dean, savoring every second they had left as the sun began to rise.

The moment had come, and Dean needed to leave, but Cas's heart protested the separation. He knew Dean would return, that their time apart would be brief, but the thought of parting, even temporarily, was unbearable. Cas let out a soft sigh, the sound tinged with reluctance.

“You have to go, it's time," he whispered, his voice laced with a mix of sadness and necessity. Dean's expression turned puzzled, his brow furrowing in confusion.

“Go? Where?" he asked, his voice tinged with a hint of alarm, as if the thought of leaving Cas's side was unthinkable.

Cas's words brought him back to reality.

"Sam will be here soon. You should meet him – where I met you."

Cas sat up, and started to gather his clothes and slowly started putting on each layer. As Dean contemplated.

Dean's mind slipped away from Jack's words, the ones about Sam living a whole life in the time he'd spent in heaven. All that mattered now was staying with Cas, never letting him go again. He wanted his angel beside him, forever entwined, with no more goodbyes or separations to endure. The thought of leaving Cas's side was unbearable, and Dean knew he'd fight against fate itself to keep them together.

Dean sat up, pulling on his pants one leg at a time, his movements deliberate.

"I've lost you enough times, Cas. I'm not taking my eyes off you ever again," he said, his voice firm with determination.

Cas raised an eyebrow, a hint of amusement dancing on his lips. "That wouldn't be awkward?” he asked dryly, but Dean's expression remained resolute.

“Cas, you're our family. Sam loves you like a brother, and he'll have to get used to us being together. He'll be happy to see us, both of us," Dean said, his words filled with conviction.

Cas's smile grew, and he nodded as he buttoned up the remaining buttons on his shirt.

“I won’t leave you again, Dean," he whispered, his voice barely audible.

Dean's face softened, and he reached out, pulling Cas close. As they sat entwined, their hearts beating as one, they knew they'd finally found their true place – wrapped in each other's arms, where they belonged.

“Now let's go find Sam," Dean said, a grin spreading across his face.

With Cas by his side and the Impala rumbling beneath them, Dean felt a sense of completeness. Heaven was a bonus – he had everything he needed.

He was good. He was happy. He was free.