Mystery Spot Inn

by ReelNaturalFreak

Summary:

Dean hasn't been the best brother or son. He used to get into trouble, a lot. Now that he has his head on straight, Dean wants to reconnect with Sam, be brothers again. After making plans to visit Sam, he checks into the oddest motel he's ever seen, the Mystery Spot Inn. Checking in was easy enough, but leaving? That's a different story.

Chapter 1: Welcome to Mystery Spot Inn

It was a nice enough day. Or at least it started that way. The birds were doing bird things like singing their songs and shitting on Dean’s Baby. The car wash was packed, and it took him about half an hour to get a hose into his hands and wash it off. The Impala was a classic and it didn’t deserve shit on it. Now he wouldn’t be there when he told Sam he would be. His brother was already getting onto him for driving all the way to Palo Alto instead of being a “normal” person and just taking a flight there. Dean was very normal, thank you very much. In fact, he felt like the only normal person. Planes were nothing but flying death machines and it was weird that people wanted to get on them. He wasn’t the weird one, everyone else was. 

His dad just shook his head, told him he wasn’t right. His mom begged him to take the plane. She loathed the thought of Dean traveling all the way there on his own. Mary was the kind of mom who thought it was dangerous for omegas to be alone on the road. She thought Dean would have a better chance on a plane. Less likely to be snatched away from some alpha. Luckily, Dean had John in his corner. He told her that he taught Dean how to punch so he’d be okay. He could tell his mom still wasn’t thrilled, but John was right. Dean was an omega, not some fragile thing. 

Plus, he loved the open road. Blasting his stereo and eating all the greasy food he wanted. 

So wins all around. 

Once Baby was good as new, he slid behind the wheel and pulled back onto the road. Dean had his GPS locked and loaded, but he didn’t need it yet. There was no way he would listen to it for hours when he’d have to stop at a motel anyway. Instead, Dean pulled up his brother’s number and put it on speaker. It rang to the point Dean thought it’d go to voicemail before that big oaf finally answered. 

“Hey Dean! Sup?” 

“Heya Sammy!” Dean excitedly answered. Maybe a little too much enthusiasm. 

The truth was, he and Sammy hadn’t had the best relationship. Sammy was that straight A, had his head on his shoulders kid, and Dean was anything but that. As a teen, he was always sneaking out of the house, staying out light. Dean didn’t care much about school, and he swore Sammy was embarrassed to be related to him. Then, the kid went and got a full ride to Stanford, and, well, Dean missed him. He hadn’t seen him but once a year. It was too much money to fly back home for Thanksgiving or for the summer. So, Sam stayed there. 

Sam wasn’t thrilled with the idea, but Dean wanted to prove he did have his head on right now. It just looked different when compared to Sammy. Dean worked hard on cars and stopped fucking around with the wrong crowd. To his surprise, Sam agreed to give it a shot, so Dean was staying there for a week. The perks of having his old man as his boss. 

“It’s Sam.” Sammy groaned. 

“Look, Sammy, I am going to be a little later than planned. I got delayed by half an hour. I had to wash Baby.” Dean said. His heart picked up pace, worried Sam would use this to prove Dean was some moron who couldn’t get his life together.

Sam snorted. “You’re still calling it that?” 

“Whoa!” If Dean had pearls, he’d be clutching them right now. “She is not an it! She’s a she and of course!” 

“Okay, just keep giving me updates and I’ll see you sometime tomorrow?””

“Of course you will.” Dean grinned. “Dude, I could make it there today if my body wasn’t stupid and needed sleep.”

“Yeah, I’m sure you could. Just stay safe.”  

With that, Sammy hung up and Dean went back to driving. He drove for hours before stopping for a bite at the nearest diner he found after the first stomach rumble. He could feel eyes of alphas lingering on him, but Dean ate like there wasn’t a care in the world. He’d feel sorry for any son of a bitch that tried to start some shit. Luckily, he made it through the meal with only a few cat calls on his way out. 

It was all going well. Dean was flying down the highway until he saw the sun starting to sit. He debated going on, waiting to find a motel when night fell. In the end, he decided not to take the risk. He could sleep in his car if all the motels nearby were filled, but a nice, comfy bed and roting his brain with a TV was too tempting. 

Dean flipped on his signal and took the next exit. He expected to see a town, but all around him were trees, and a long winding road. Dean frowned. Usually, he had to go into town to get into the backroads, but hey, if there wasn’t a town around, then there wouldn’t be an exit. Dean tapped his fingers on the steering wheel. Bobbing his head to Def Leppard as he kept his eye out for a motel. 

Eventually, he saw a neon glowing sign, peeking over the trees. Dean slowed down as he approached. He was still expecting a town, not to find a motel in the middle of nowhere. It was a strange motel too. Well, it looked like any motel he had seen. Brick walls, a gray roof, but the parking lot was empty. What really stood out was the sign though. It was neon green with purple lettering that read, Mystery Spot Inn. Dean snorted, the weirdest name for a motel he’d ever seen. Still, the lights were on and it was a motel, so he pulled in. 

He really didn’t expect to see anyone, but he could see a man through the lobby’s window, staring at him. It was weird, but then again, Dean was the only person in the lot. He swung his door open and made his way to the front door. 

The guy, an omega, leaning behind the counter, pulled out his sucker he’d been sucking on. It came out with a wet plop. “Well, well! Welcome to Mystery Spot Inn!” He said with a smirk on his face. “How many will be rooming with us tonight?” 

“Uh, just one.” Dean replied and the guy stared at him. Not a normal stare. There was something about those golden hazel eyes, but Dean couldn’t put his finger on it. Even his scent was… Off… He smelled like an omega. Honey and oranges lingered in his scent, but there was something else Dean couldn’t name. 

Eventually, the guy flopped down a form. “Just fill this out and give me a credit card or cash or something.” 

Dean did exactly what he was told. He handed the guy his card and started to fill out the form. As he was filling it out, another scent caught his nose. The smell before rain fell and wind, when there was static in the air. Dean looked up and there was an alpha. He was still standing between the door frame of the room he had been in. Dark, messy hair and big blue eyes like he had seen a ghost. Dean raised a brow. This alpha was looking at him like he was something weird, but the guy was the one who looked like a tax accountant in a tan trench coat. 

“How did you find this place?” He asked in a voice much deeper than Dean expected. 

Dean cocked a brow. “I took the exit?” 

“No hush, Cassie!” The omega waved his hand at the guy. “Don’t bother the guest. Just hand me a room key.” 

Cas didn’t take his eyes off him. His lips pressed into a thin line and it looked like he had something to say. Dean stared back, waiting, but eventually, the guy walked over to the keys hanging on the wall. He took one, placed it on the counter before quickly retreating to the back room. 

Okay, so these people were as strange as their motel, but Dean would only be here for one night. 

“Enjoy your stay.” The omega said. There was a teasing tone in his voice. Like he and Dean were sharing some inside joke.

“Yeah, thanks.” Dean muttered and snatched the key. 

He walked back to the Impala and drove down to his room. It was five doors down from the lobby. As he unloaded, he had a strange feeling in the pit of his stomach. It was weird, grabbing his bang, and knowing there were no other guests here. There was probably a good reason too. Maybe this place could have landed a spot on Hotel Hell if it were still airing. 

Dean flipped on the light and he was met with the most hideous sight he’d ever seen. Purple carpet with wavey lime green designs on it. The bottom half of the wall was painted a bright pink and the top part was blue. The comforter was a zebra print of yellow, green, and red. 

“It’s just for a night…” Dean reminded himself. 

He tossed his to-go bag on the cow print couch with honest to god cow heads at the ends of the armrest. Their eyes bludged out and were bigger than their faces. Dean threw himself on the bed and pulled out his phone. He found Sam’s name and started the call. Dean’s frown deepened when all he got was stuttering beeps. He pulled the phone away and looked at the screen. No service. 

“Great…” Dean sighed. He tossed his phone to the side and grabbed the remote on the nightstand. He was greeted with static. He groaned, leaning his head back. “Fucking great.”  

He paid for a room and they didn’t even have a TV signal? What the hell was he supposed to do to pass the time? Dean swung his feet off the bed and looked around the room. There were no brochures on the nightstands or dresser. There had to be something around here. Didn’t every motel promote local restaurants? They at least always had numbers for pizza delivery. 

Dean opened up the dresser drawers, but they were empty. He walked back to the nightstand, opening its drawer. His eyebrows shot up, the skimpily dressed woman on the adult magazine smiled at him. 

“Belldonna, niiiice.” Dean smirked. 

He picked up the magazine and found a Bible under it. His brows drew together. Who the hell put a porno magazine and a Bible in the same drawer? What the hell kind of motel was this? Dean grabbed the Bible, but there was nothing else there. Dean rolled his eyes. He tossed both the holy book and the skin mag back. He grabbed his room key and made his way back to the lobby. The omega was still behind the counter. Eyes glued to a small TV sitting on top and Dean didn’t remember that being there. He was listening to some news station, or at least Dean hoped so. The reporter was talking about an alpha being skin alive. 

“Well hello, Dean-O.” The omega said the moment he could be bothered to pull the sucker out of his mouth. “Anything I can get ya? Towels? Ice?” 

“Actually, is there a place around that delivers?” He asked. 

“Nope!” The omega replied. Popping the p at the end. Then he thumbed to a door on the right. “You can grab some grub there.” 

“Uh, thanks.” Dean said and the omega simply hummed. “My TV isn’t working.” 

“Yeah, the something’s down.” The other omega replied. His eyes never left the screen. 

“Yours is working.” 

“It’s a DVD.” 

That guy was full of shit, but Dean decided to let it go. As soon as he could, he’d get the hell out of here. Dean walked to the door and when he opened it, he wasn’t sure what he’d get. A bright red wall seemed to track. The floors were black and white checkers. The tables were round and red with red chairs. The booths were pink, blue, and white with the same table tops. There was a counter with a kitchen behind it, but the lights were off. There were some machines pressed against the wall. Dean walked over to them. A regular venting machine, a soda machine, and a hot display case with hot dogs and pizza. 

Okay, so maybe this place wasn’t all that bad. He did have to pay for the Coke and candy, but there was a note saying the pizza and hot dogs were on the house for guests. Seeing he was the only damn guest here, Dean took two boxes of individual slices. 

“Enjoy.” The strange omega said on Dean’s way out. 

Dean stepped back out into the chilly night air. The sun had gone down much faster than he expected. He made the lonely walk back to his room. If he had to stay in a nineties gone wrong room, at least he’d eat like a king. 

Chapter 2: Welcome to Mystery Spot Inn

It was the heat of the moment

Telling me what my heart meant

The heat of the moment

Showed in your eyes

 

Dean groaned, smacking his lips and rubbing the sleep from his eyes. He blinked them open and he could see the sun fighting through the curtain. He looked forward to getting back on the road. If he got an early start, he could make it to Cali before sunset. Dean shut off the alarm, got dressed, and decided to skip the shower. Nothing strange happened last night. He got a good night’s sleep, but he still wanted to get the hell out of this place. 

Dean made sure he locked the door behind him. Drove the Impala up to the lobby door. He stayed frozen in his seat. He stared through the lobby’s window, at the omega who checked him in last night. Dean thought he’d see someone else for the morning shift, but maybe the omega had just gotten there before Dean checked in. That had to be it, so Dean strolled through the lobby doors. 

“Helloooooo, Dean-O!” The omega greeted him with a singsong voice and a mouth full of Snickers. “Did you have a pleasant stay at Mystery Spot Inn?” 

“Sure.” Dean replied. Placing his key down on the counter. 

“Wanna receipt?” 

“No, thank you.” Dean said. Already on his way out. 

He hopped Baby and got the fuck out of there. He fumbled with his tapes as he drove the long and winding backroads. He switched out tapes and turned his stereo up. The only way to listen to Metallica. Dean jammed out, for about an hour or so before something wasn’t feeling right. He should have run into a town by now. Or at least a sign, a gas station. Something, but it was just trees on either side of the road and another bend to round. 

Dean wasn’t one to admit he was lost, but he pulled over on the side of the road. He grabbed his phone and tried to pull up his GPS, but there wasn’t any signal. He grumbled a curse word and got back on the road. There had to be something soon. All he had to do was keep driving. 

So, that was what he did. Drive, and he drove and drove when another thought tickled his brain. It had been two hours now, and he hadn’t seen another car on the road. Dean shoved away the worried feeling trying to claw at his gut. It was just a road and a fucking road led somewhere, so he drove. 

Until he saw something that made his stomach churn. A neon light sign, peeking up above the trees. 

“What the hell?” Dean asked. 

It couldn’t be, but soon, a very similar plane-looking motel with an ugly neon sign that read, Mystery Spot Inn was in his sight. Baby idled as Dean just stared stupidly at it. It couldn’t be the same Mystery Spot Inn. The one he stayed out was two hours behind him. A bad feeling swirled in his stomach. Two Mystery Spot Inns in the middle of nowhere? His gut was screaming it was wrong. Something was seriously wrong, but Dean pulled into the parking lot. He had to prove to himself it was a different one. It had to be. Besides, he could ask for directions while he was here. 

Dean shoved through the lobby doors. It was a little dizzying, the place looked exactly the same as the other motel. The only difference was that there was the annoying omega wasn’t behind the counter. There was no one behind the counter. Dean couldn’t even pick up a scent. He walked up to the counter, noting the differences he could spot. There wasn’t a small TV there, and there was an orange desk bell with crab claws and legs. Dean knew for a fact that wasn’t there at the other motel and he felt himself start to relax. 

He rang the bell and soon, a soft, feminine voice called out from the back room, “Be right there.” 

A huge smile broke out across his face and Dean fought himself from laughing. Or crying. He wasn’t sure. He just knew he was happy as hell to hear her voice. Now he felt ridiculous for feeling scared for a moment. 

Then, a scent of oranges and honey filled his nose and Dean’s stomach dropped. He watched in horror as the omega, from the motel he had just been to, walked through the back door. The omega smiled, ear to ear. The room spun and Dean’s body started to grow numb. This had to be a dream, some fucked up dream. 

“Well, well. Welcome to the Mystery Spot Inn. How many will be rooming with us?” The omega asked and there was a damn chuckle in his voice. 

Dean turned on his heels. Running out the door and into the Impala. He peeled out of the parking lot, but this time, he drove in the direction he came from, before he first found this place. Back where he got off on the exit. 

Dean pressed the metal to the pedal. His heart pounded in his chest. He just needed to get back to the exit. Once he did, everything would be okay. He’d be back on the highway and on his way to Cali. Dean drove and drove. Hours passed before Dean saw any sign of life. His heart dropped to his stomach when he saw Mystery Spot Inn coming into view. 

Dean pressed down on the gas, driving like a madman. He saw the same winding road and trees until that goddamn sign came into view again. A neon mess of green and purple, taunting him. Dean slammed on his brakes. Huffing as he tried to calm down his racing heart. He didn’t know what to do, but he wouldn’t be able to do anything if he let his fear overwhelm him. 

Dean closed his eyes and breathed. His knuckles turned white from how tightly he gripped his steering wheel. As he started to calm down a bit, Dean started thinking more clearly. Driving wasn’t working. Alll he was doing was going in circles. If he kept at it, he’d get nowhere and eventually run out of gas. He couldn’t let that happen. If he wanted to get the hell out of here, he had to confront that creepy omega. 

Dean turned and looked at the motel. His heart skipped a beat when he saw a black Mercedes-Benz parked near the lobby doors. Dean knew it could be a trick, but what if it was a real person who stumbled into this place too? Dean couldn’t take any chances. He pulled up next to the slick car and reached over to his glove compartment. Dean checked to make sure his gun was loaded and the safety was off. That freak better let them go. John Winchester made sure his sons didn’t miss. 

When Dean pushed through the door, the omega was talking to an older man. With gray thinning hair, even though there wasn’t much on top. He was an alpha, Dean could smell it on him, along with the scent of burnt amber and wood. There was something else Dean couldn’t quite tell. The smell of fear and anxiety overshadowed another part of his regular scent.

The alpha patted his forehead with a tissue. “It’s not great… Not great at all… I just need a place to get away for a few days. Until everything calms down.” 

“Well, that’s what we’re here for!” The omega replied with a huge smile on his face. 

“Hey!” Dean shouted. 

They looked over at him and the alpha’s eyes grew wide. Not like Dean could blame him. It wasn’t every day that there was a crazed-looking omega with a gun in his hand strolling into a lobby of a motel from hell. 

“Give me one moment, Zachariah.” The omega told him without ever breaking his smile. The omega turned so he could face Dean better. “Missed us that much you had to check in again?” 

Dean lifted the gun, aimed it square in the center of the omega’s skull. The bastard only laughed as he opened a pack of Reese’s Cups. Like this was all some joke. Dean bared his teeth and held the gun steady. “I don’t know how you’re doing this, but I’ve had enough! Let me go, now!” 

The omega shrugged. “You can go. Anytime you want to.” 

“You know what I mean!” Dean snapped, but the omega only lazily ate his treat. “Let me get back to the exit!” 

“If you can’t find the exit, that’s not my fault.” The omega said. Chocolate and peanut butter sticking to his bottom lip. 

“Stop fucking with me! Let me go now! Last warning, man!” Dean growled. 

That Cas guy came rushing out from the back room. He froze when he saw the gun in Dean’s hand. The other alpha, Zachariah, still stared at him like he couldn’t believe this was happening. The only one who didn’t seem phased by what was going on was the omega. 

He smirked at Dean. There was a twinkle in his eyes as he leaned forward on the counter. “What are you going to do, Dean-O? Are you going to shoot me? Oooooh, please don’t do that.” 

“Then get me out of whatever hell loop you’ve trapped me in.” Dean demanded. 

The omega’s eyes darted to the ceiling. He hummed as he tapped his fingers on the counter. It was pissing Dean off, but surprisingly, he wasn’t the only one the omega was annoying. 

“Gabriel!” Cas hissed. “Stop–” 

“Hush Cassie!” Gabriel held up his finger and Cas’s lips pressed together tightly. The alpha narrowed his eyes, but Gabe ignored him. He turned his attention back to Dean and gave him a smile that he wanted to punch off that smug face. “No.” 

Dean pulled the trigger, and the shot echoed off the walls. Still ringing even after the bullet slammed into Gabriel’s skull. The omega’s head whipped back before he went crashing onto the floor behind the counter. Dean heaved, his arms shook. Now that he was dead, that had to break the loop. Dean’s eyes darted to Cas, expecting the alpha to jump over the counter and attack him for killing his friend. The alpha kept his head down, eyes on the floor like he was ashamed. Now that Dean knew he didn’t have to worry about him, he turned his attention to Zachariah. The alpha was still staring at him like he was some kind of puzzle. 

“I know what it looks like, but trust me, I just did you a favor.” Dean told him. “This place isn’t what it seems and we have to get the fuck out of here.” 

Zachariah’s head tilted. “How did a human get here?” 

A dread washed over Dean’s body. Leaving a chill behind its wake. Goosebumps popped up on his arms. Dean stared at the guy who only stared at him. Zachariah’s face grew more and more bewildered by the second. 

“What?” Dean finally choked out. 

He flinched when he heard laughter. Laughing, that wasn’t coming from Zachariah or Cas. Dean could only stand, frozen in terror as he watched Gabriel pull himself back up. A completely fine omega with no bullet wound in the center of his head. The omega looked at him and then broke out laughing again. 

“Oh fuck!” Dean cried. He spun on his heels and sprinted for the door. 

“Yeah! Try to leave again, Dean-O! ‘Cause that worked so well for you the last four times!” Gabriel crackled. 

Dean pushed through the doors and ran to the Impala. He flung the door open, but quickly slammed it shut. Driving wasn’t getting him out of this mess. Dean held the gun tight as he ran across the parking lot, across the road, and into the woods. He stopped long enough to pull out his pocket knife. He carved an X in a tree and ran. He stopped only long enough to carve an X into trees, every couple of trees away. Looking over his shoulder as he did so. 

His heart was in his throat, his eyes darted in every direction, but no one seemed to be following him. Dean kept doing this, going deeper and deeper into the woods. Eventually, it had to lead him to the highway or a town. It had to lead him anywhere but back where he just ran from. 

Dean’s chest twisted when he saw what seemed to be the end of the tree line. He finished carving his X and ran until he was out of the woods and facing the Mystery Inn Motel. Gabriel and Zachariah were sitting on chairs right before the road. Gabriel was eating popcorn and waving at Dean like this was entertainment for him. 

A frustrated scream escaped deep from Dean’s gut. He ran back into the woods, but his X’s were gone. Dean gritted his teeth and closed his pocket knife. He shoved it back into his pocket because it was damn useless. Instead of running straight ahead like he had before, Dean ran to the right. His legs were aching and his lungs were on fire, but he forced himself to run. Run until he was out of the woods, facing the Mystery Spot Inn, and Gabriel and Zachariah once again. 

“Son of a bitch!” 

“Why don’t you try again!” Gabriel shouted. “I’m sure this time you’ll find your way out!” 

Dean ran back into the woods, going in the left direction this time. He didn’t run far before his body just couldn’t take it anymore. He used the trunk of a tree to support himself as he tried to catch his breath. It wasn’t easy when he felt like he was smack dab in a panic attack. Dean didn’t do panic attacks, but he was freaking the fuck out right now. His mind buzzed, making it hard to think because his brain couldn’t accept that this was happening. 

Dean pulled his phone out of his pocket. His phone was still trying to tell him he had no signal, but it didn’t stop him from trying to call Sammy. Then his dad, mom, uncle Bobby, or nine-one-one. Hell, he even tried calling his ex, and Lee was the last person he wanted to talk to. All he got was an out-of-service dial tone. 

Dean laughed as he fell to his knees. If something like this was going to happen to anyone, of course, it would happen to him. He wouldn’t show up on time, and Sammy would just write it off as a Dean thing to do. He probably thought Dean found some random alpha at some random bar and decided to hook up with them instead of repairing their relationship. Dean laughed harder when he realized it could take weeks or even months before his family started to look for him. They would just think Dean slipped into his old ways and shake their heads. Just like Dean, he could hear them saying. Dean might be dead by the time anyone realized he was missing, if they came to that conclusion. 

They might just believe he finally decided to run off. 

Dean wasn’t sure how long he sat there. He was too afraid to check the time on his phone. He just sat there until he felt like he could move again. Dean sighed as he pushed himself up and walked through the woods. He watched the sky grow darker until the sun set and he was trying to find his way out of the woods in the dark. He used his hands to guide him, making sure he didn’t walk face-first into a tree. 

By the time he made it out, Cas was waiting for him right outside the tree line. Behind him, Mystery Spot Inn’s glowing sign taunted him. Dean fell to his knees, gasping for air that his lungs couldn’t seem to get enough of. 

“Dean.” Cas said with that deep rumbly voice. “It’s time to go in.” 

“Yeah…” Dean gasped. “Yeah, okay.” 

Notes:

Okay so I got this out sooner than I thought lol. And I swear I still plan on finishing up my other two projects. It's just when I started on my book, I ended up driving lol. I already have 17 chapters and needed a break. I totally planned on working on Legally Dean when this idea popped into my head and I just had to write a chapter on it. Then I really was excited for this chapter, so I decided to bang it out in one sitting.

Chapter 3: The Conundrum

Cas held the door open for him. Dean glared at him before stepping in. Gabriel and Zachariah smiled at him. 

“Thanks, kid.” Zahariah said. “You earned me a free room for a night.” 

“What are you talking about?” Dean asked. His words forced out through gritted teeth. 

“We had a bet on how many more times you’d try to get out.” Gabriel answered. 

“I bet you would try exactly three more times.” Zachariah said with a huge smile on his face. 

Gabriel sighed and rolled his eyes. “I bet you’d at least go twenty more times. I thought you had more spunk than that.” 

Dean shrugged his shoulders. “Well, you had your fun. Can you let me the fuck go now?” 

“I would but…” Gabriel sucked his teeth. “I don’t know how.” 

Dean’s jaw dropped. “What do you mean you don’t know how?!” 

“Humans aren’t supposed to find this place.” Cas told him. 

“But it happens from time to time. It’s so fun when it does!” Gabriel chuckled. His smile dropped for a second when he saw the look on Cas’s face. He huffed. “Look, Dean-O. We don’t know how you found this place and we don’t know how to get you out.” 

“We’ve tried to get humans out before. It… Led to some unfortunate circumstances.” Cas said. 

Dean ran his hands through his hair. “What do you mean? What happened to them?” 

Cas’s mouth formed into a thin line. It was Gabriel who spoke up. “Well, there was one smuck that Cas managed to pull out of this reality, but he immediately lost his mind. Tore his face off with his bare hands and bashed his head into the pavement until his skull caved in.” 

“There was this one alpha Gabriel managed to free, but… Umm…” Cas looked down at the ground and mumbled something. 

“What?” Dean snapped and Gabriel started to snicker. 

“Something went wrong. Her insides were on the outside and–and–” Gabriel threw back his head and laughed. “No matter how much I tried to fix her, her body just kept turning inside out!” 

“Oh god… I’m going to be sick…” The room swayed back and forth as Dean took a few steps away from them. “This can’t be real…” 

“Hey, what happened to that one omega you tried to save?” Zachariah asked and Gabriel broke out into another fit of laughter. 

“Oh man, so I tried to be more careful bringing him back to his reality and for a second, I thought I pulled it off. But then the guy explodes! I’m talking about millions of bits of flesh and blood. Like the pieces were so small, I couldn’t find them all! I guess his body couldn’t handle moving between realities!” 

“Well, there’s gotta be something!” Dean shouted. “I can’t stay here! I have a family!” 

Gabriel shrugged. “I’m all for trying to pull your weak little fleshbag through realities. It’s Cassie who put a stop to it. He thought it was cruel to you humans to put them through that.” 

Dean marched over to Cas and jabbed a finger in his chest. “Get me out of here.” 

“No.” Cas simply answered. 

“Yes, yes you fuckin’ will and you will make sure you do it where I stay in one piece!” Dean growled. 

“No.” Cas said with the usual pep in his voice. Which was none. This guy was as monotone as a kid’s room when their mom was a beige mom. 

Dean growled, and he shoved Cas. Or he tried to shove him, but the guy was like a statue. Didn’t move one damn inch. “Dude! Seriously! If you have a way to get me out, do it! My brother is waiting for me and he’ll know something’s wrong when I never show up!” 

“No.” Cas replied, more sternly this time. “If you have a death wish, fine, but I won’t let any being suffer like those who we’ve tried to get out before.” 

“Then what am I supposed to do?!” Dean snapped. 

He turned his head to the front counter when Gabriel cleared his throat. “You could stay at Mystery Spot Inn!” Dean groaned. He wanted to punch that little fucker, but if a bullet didn’t do the job, his fists sure as hell wouldn’t. Dean stormed over to the front counter and Gabriel slid him a form. “Cash or card?” 

“Fuck that!” Dean spat. “If I’m trapped in this twisted world, you’re going to let me stay here for free! And give me a room with a working TV this time!” 

Gabriel shrugged, grabbed a key, and slid it over to Dean. He snatched it and headed for the door. “Wait! You should probably grab some food! I know how you humans need to eat and stuff.” 

“Yeah, no.” Now that he knew this was some kind of hell world and everyone else was monsters, who knew what the hell that food really was? 

Dean grumbled as he slid behind the wheel. He checked the room Gabriel gave him, room four. He drove down to the room and sat there. He stared at the white door as it all sank in on him. This was it, this was all of the little world he somehow fell into. Getting out meant death and it really hit him then, he’d never see his family again. They would never know what happened to him. He had no way of reaching out to tell them he didn’t leave them on purpose. Dean opened the door when his aching heart became too much. He grabbed his bag and unlocked the door that would be his home for the foreseeable future. 

He flipped on the light and was greeted with a completely different themed room from the last one he stayed in. The floor was hardwood, but it was made to look like grass. Flowers and stepping stones and all. The wallpaper was a photo of some woods, but that wasn’t the craziest part. Standing in front of the trees was Gabriel, in different costumes. He was a clown, a cartoony thief, a flight pilot, and–

“Oh god, he’s cosplaying the McDonald’s cast…” Dean said with disbelief. 

Every direction Dean looked, there was a Gabriel smiling at him. Dean shivered; no way he would sleep well tonight. He tossed his bag on the red couch with a huge yellow M pillow resting on top and walked over to a fucking racecar bed. Dean fell onto the mattress and snatched up the remote, turning the TV on. 

Dean’s eyes about popped out of his skull when he saw Gabriel and Cas dressed like some teens on the screen. 

“Growing up is hard.” Gabriel said. Glaring at Cas. “You have no idea what it’s like. Being a five-hundred-year-old vampire going to school.” Cas just stood there, looking like he didn’t want to be there. “Say the line, Cassie.” Gabriel hissed. 

Cas sighed and rolled his eyes. “And you have no idea what it’s like being a werewolf… In high school…”  

Dean flipped the channel only to see those two bastards again. This time in white coats. 

“Damn it, Dr. Novak! You don’t get it! So that woman died on your table! Well, sometimes people die! You’re a surgeon, damn it! You’re not you unless you're operating!” Gabriel said with too much conviction. 

“You don’t understand.” Cas said in a tone of a man who didn’t want to be there. “That wasn’t just any woman who died on my table. That was my secret half sister of my real dad I didn’t realize I had until my aunt, who was pretending to be my mom, told me on her deathbed.” 

“Oh, you gotta be fucking kidding me.” Dean grumbled as he changed the channel again. 

“Don’t lie to me.” Gabriel said, dressed in a sharp suit. “I know you lied about the last time you saw Uriel. Wanna tell me what happened?” 

“Oh no.” Cas said. Sitting at a metal table in an interrogation room. “You caught me in a lie. I guess I’ll tell you exactly what happened. Even though you have no hard proof to charge me with.”

Dean shut the TV off and tossed the remote. His head dropped down onto the pillow and covered his face with his hands. This couldn’t be the rest of his life. There had to be a way to get out of here. Gabriel wasn’t being fully honest with him. There had to be an escape. Dean thought about it and the more he thought about it, he sat up. 

It was obvious Gabriel was running things. If he created this pocket dimension, then it made sense that it would disappear if Gabriel could be killed. And there had to be a way to kill him. Everything could die. Dean just needed to think about it. He ran through every monster flick he had ever watched and how the monsters died. Gabriel wasn’t like the monsters in the movies, and before today, Dean didn’t think monsters were real. The only monsters he believed in were the evil humans were capable of. 

He needed to try to stab Gabriel through the heart or behead him. Hell, Dean might even need silver to kill this monster, but he had to be sure. He doubted he would have a lot of chances. Gabriel could bend reality here. If Dean picked the wrong method, he was fucked. 

He was pulled from his thoughts when he heard knocking on the door. He felt his blood run cold. Shit, shit, shit! Could Gabriel read his mind? 

“Dean?” Cas’s muffled voice came through the door. 

Dean got up and walked over. He was still wary of this Cas guy, but he felt safer around him than Gabriel. Dean swung open the door. Cas stood there with a tray of food in his hands. Ranging from burgers to pizza. Salads, pasta salads, and macaroni salads. 

“Umm… I didn’t know what you liked.” Cas said. 

“Go away.” Dean stepped back and tried to close the door, but Cas’s shoe shot out, blocking it. 

“Dean, you haven’t eaten all day. I heard that’s extremely not good for humans.” 

“You know what else isn’t good for humans?” Dean asked, but Cas just stared at him. “Being trapped in pocket dimensions!” 

“I’m sorry.” Cas said, sounding anything but sorry. Different than Gabriel, though. The omega seemed to enjoy watching Dean struggle. Cas didn’t sound thrilled about it, but he didn’t have any emotion behind his voice. “But you have to eat. Please.” He added in at the end. 

Dean wanted to tell the guy to fuck off, but his stomach was twisting in pain. He sighed and stepped back so Cas could enter. Cas looked around the room, seeming genuinely shocked by the layout. Dean wondered just how much of a role he had in this. If he didn’t make it clear he wasn’t human, Dean would’ve thought he was a victim too. Forced to be Gabriel’s partner in crime. His plaything. 

“Oh…” Cas finally said after taking it all in. 

“Yeah, your buddy has shit taste in interior design.” Cas didn’t have anything to say about that. He walked over to the racecar bed and placed the tray down. “You keep saying humans need to eat. It sounds like you guys, whatever the hell you are, don’t have to.” 

“No, we don’t.” Cas confirmed. 

“So what?” Dean waved his hand. “Does Gabriel keep food for us poor humans who find ourselves here?” 

“No.” Cas replied. “Gabriel really enjoys the taste of food. As quite a few of my kind do as well.” 

“And what exactly are you guys?” Dean asked. 

“Don’t bother.” Cas replied. “There’s no use. There’s nothing humanly possible you can find to kill us.” 

Dean felt his body go stiff. They did know what he was thinking. He waited for Cas to kill him for just thinking about it, but the alpha strolled towards the door. Muttering that he hoped Dean slept well before leaving him alone. 

Dean stood there, for a moment, until he realized he was still breathing. 

No humanly possible way, huh? That was good to know. Dean could work with that. That meant there was a way to kill Gabriel. Game fucking on. 

Notes:

Technically, I did not post two chapters in a day. It's midnight here 😉

Chapter 4: Digging

“Goodnight, Castiel.” Zachariah said as he shoved his key into his door. Three rooms down from Dean’s. 

“Night, Zachariah.” Castiel replied. Even though the meaning was lost on him. Neither he nor the other alpha would sleep tonight. 

He took his time walking back to the lobby. He needed some time to wrap his mind around this. It had been over a decade since the last human checked in. Over a century since he and Gabriel stopped trying to pull them out of this reality. He had hoped, prayed that something like this would never happen again. His heart went out to Dean and to his family. Gabriel didn’t understand the whole consequences. Either that or he just chose not to care, but this wasn’t about some human meeting an unfortunate fate here. There were also their families outside this world. Families who would spend the rest of their lives wondering what happened to their loved ones. They haunted Castiel, and now, there would be more ghosts coming. All because there was a glitch in reality that allowed Dean into this world without an exit. 

“So? Did you get laid?” Gabriel asked the second he returned. 

“You’re unnecessarily cruel.” Castiel told him and Gabriel rolled his eyes. “You didn’t need to take so much pleasure from Dean’s suffering. He’s already terrified enough as it is.” 

“Look…” Gabriel started. He snapped his fingers and a huge piece of cake on a small plate appeared before him. Castiel counted at least seven different flavors. “It’s been a while since I gotta have fun like this. Let me have my fun.” 

“You can conjure fun whenever you want. You don’t have to take it out on the human.” 

“Not like it matters.” Gabriel said, his mouth full of food. Crumbs of cake fell from the corner of his mouth. “Dean’s not going to be here much longer.” Castiel’s head dropped down and he could feel his brother’s eyes on him. “Caaaasie? You do know what has to be done, right?” 

“Can’t he… Can’t he just live here?” Castiel asked. “It’s not like he could kill us, even if he tried. What harm would it do? I’m sure eventually, he’d get used to this. We can feed him, you could provide him with any entertainment he wanted.” 

“Sure.” Gabriel replied and Castiel felt himself relax. “When our brother comes to visit, he’ll have a plaything. I’m sure that wouldn’t fuck up Dean’s mind at all.” 

“I get it.” Castiel gritted through his teeth. “I’ll do what needs to be done.” 

“Thatta boy.” Gabriel replied. 

Castiel stormed behind the counter and walked through the back room. The cool spring breeze whipped past his face. He walked over to the bench he always sat at and he looked around the quiet park that was always empty. His brother was right, Castiel knew what needed to be done. Dean would never get used to this world and it wasn’t fair to him. He would show the omega mercy, tomorrow. For tonight, he’d let Dean eat and rest. 

🍭🍨🍩

Dean blinked the sleep away from his eyes. He looked around the room and his heart sank seeing Gabriels staring at him. Dean closed his eyes and sighed. He had prayed last night, and he never prayed, but he was desperate. He just wanted to wake back up in his own room in his apartment. He wanted all of this to be some fever dream. Knowing it wasn’t was crushing. Knowing there was no escape made it all the worse. Dean couldn’t even use TV as a mental escape. Gabriel tormented him with that too. 

All he wanted to do was put on his headphones and lose himself in his music. He couldn’t, if he wanted to figure out how to kill whatever the hell Gabriel was, he needed to be near them. The more he was around them, maybe they would drop more hints. Dean pushed himself out of bed and got dressed with energy he didn’t have. He dragged his feet down to the lobby, where Gabriel was, because he was always there. 

“Goooooooood morning Dean-O.” Gabriel said with too much cheer in his voice. 

Dean replied with a groan and walked to the door where the food was. If he was going to spend time around that little psycho, he would need coffee first. The lights were on, and the kitchen had workers hanging around. There was a guy, a young-looking omega behind the counter, looking bored out of his skull. Dean walked over to him and as he approached, the young omega didn’t look all that surprised to see him. 

“What can I get you?” He asked. 

Dean looked down at the guy’s name tag. A super long name tag that read, Samandriel, and what kind of a name was that? Dean cleared his throat. “Man, I would love some coffee.” 

“Kay? And?” He asked and Dean bit his bottom lip. 

He did end up eating the food Cas gave him, but he was still hungry. “Got bacon? Eggs? Pancakes? Anything like that?” 

Samandriel grabbed a microphone and spoke into it even though his coworkers were right behind him. “Bacon, eggs, pancakes, and…” The other omega eyed Dean. “A black coffee for the butch omega.” 

Dean shrugged at the guy, giving him a seriously look, but the kid remained unbothered. He stared straight ahead, looking through Dean, or at least it felt like it. Dean waved his hand, but Samandriel didn’t even so much as blink. 

“Human!” A guy with dark hair called out. 

Dean blinked and damn, that was fast. He walked over, and the worker was already retreating to his coworkers. Dean grabbed the tray and walked over to a booth. He grabbed the fork and poked at the eggs. Body on edge, half expecting the eggs to jump at him even though he’d already eaten twice here and nothing bad had happened. Dean grabbed a piece of bacon and eyed it warily. He slowly brought it to his lips and gave it an experimental bite. 

It tasted like normal bacon, like everything else tasted normal. Dean took a sip out of his coffee and it was good. He wasn’t vomiting up blood and it was all normal. His chest twisted in pain. It was all normal, but it made the world he was in even more obvious that it was far from normal. Everyone around him wasn’t normal. Dean was the only human in a world not meant for him.

“Rough night, kid?” 

Dean flinched back, his wide eyes on Zachariah across the table. He didn’t even hear the guy approach or smell him coming. Zachariah grinned at him and lifted his glass filled with what smelled like scotch. 

“What do you want?” Dean asked. He narrowed his eyes at the alpha who wasn’t a man, not really. 

“I was hoping I’d find you here.” Zachariah replied. “See, in my line of work, I– well, I haven’t really talked to humans before.” 

Dean raised a brow. “Okaaaay?” 

“I just…” Zachariah shrugged. “Heard so many rumors about your kind. I was hoping I could pick your brains to see if they’re true. If you could tell me more about your kind.” 

Dean’s eyes lit up and he leaned forward. “I’ll tell you all about your kind if you tell me about yours.”

Zachariah’s smile grew. “You got yourself a deal, kid.” 

Hope filled Dean’s heart. This would be his best chance to get information. He wouldn’t have to linger around the lobby and hope Gabriel or Cas would let something slip. “Then ask away.” 

“Oooh… Okay, where to start?” Zachariah asked himself. Dean watched his mind work before something flashed through his eyes. “Okay, so I heard you guys are easily killed. By so many things. Even little diseases you can’t see can kill you. Is it true?” 

Dean blinked. He felt unsettled because that wasn’t what he was expecting. At least not the first question. “Uh… Yeah… That’s true. We can be crushed by heavy shit, we’ll die if we fall, and diseases can get us, but it depends.” 

Excitement filled Zachariah. “Really? Fascinating! I just can’t wrap my mind around it. Even falling can kill you? How far do you gotta fall to die? Is it like, a fall that has to be far up from the ground or can tripping on your feet kill you?” 

Okay, now Dean was creeped out, but if he wanted to get his information, then he had to play along. “Um, no, not like that and it really depends. Some falls could kill people, some might just seriously fuck them up, or if they’re drunk enough, it might not hurt them at all.” 

“So alcohol gives your kind some kind of…” Zachariah waved his hand. “Super power?” 

Dean huffed. “It feels like that.” 

“What’s the most dangerous disease to your kind?” 

“Ooooh shoot…” Dean rubbed the back of his neck. “I um… I wouldn’t know the worst one, like nowadays. Covid seemed pretty bad, but umm… The black plague did a great job wiping us out.” 

“Whoa…” Zachariah leaned in closer. Pupils dark with sick interest. “So this black plague comes around and just wipes out most of your kind? How do you reproduce so fast?” 

Dean shook his head. “No, that’s gone now. Then again, we’re not killing a bunch of cats because we think women are witches turning into them. Which means the rat problem isn’t out of control now.” 

“I honestly can’t get enough.” Zachariah said with a huge grin on his face. He took a sip from his glass. He sighed as he set it down. “There’s just so much I want to know. So many questions and I don’t know where to start.” 

“Then maybe I can ask a question now.” Dean said. 

“Of course.” 

“Okay, so it sounds like your kind can’t be killed easily.” Dean said and Zachariah hummed as an acknowledgement. 

“Really, the only thing that can kill our kind is well, our own kind.” He chuckled. 

Well shit… Dean needed one of whatever the hell Gabriel was to kill him. He briefly wondered if Cas would help him, but quickly dismissed the thought. No way he could trust Cas like that. He doubted the guy would ever betray Gabriel. 

“So, could you guys transform a human into what you are?” Dean asked because it was his next best shot. 

“Funny you mention that.” Zachariah replied and hope fluttered in his chest. “There is a legend told by my kind. That it could be done, but it would have to be done by a being so powerful. More powerful than we have ever seen. It’s all myth, though.” He told him and Dean slumped in his seat. 

“Any other myths?” Dean asked. There had to be something useful Zachariah could give him. 

“As a matter of fact, there is. There’s this legend that we could be killed by humans, with the right tools.” He replied and Dean felt his body hum with adrenaline.

“What were the tools?” He asked. 

“Oh, it’s simple.” He replied and Dean held his hands to his side. Forming them into fists, digging his nails into the palms of his hands to keep himself from looking too excited by the answer. “So simple it couldn't be true. It’s–” 

“Zachariah!” Gabriel greeted with a cheery voice. 

He was right there, next to them. Dean didn’t hear him come in either and he wanted to bash his head into the table. He was so fucking close. 

“Gabriel!” Zachariah greeted him back with a huge smile. “Sit with us. Dean was telling me all about his kind and it’s simply intriguing.” 

“Let’s take a raincheck on that.” Gabriel clapped his hands together. “I need to talk to you?” 

“Can it wait?” Zachariah asked. “I was just about to ask Dean how his kind reproduces.” 

“Sadly, it can’t.” Gabriel replied and it looked like Zachariah would protest. “It’s about Michael.” 

Zachariah’s dementor changed. The alpha grew stiff and Dean could smell the worry oozing out of his scent. The alpha turned to him and flashed him an apologetic smile. “Could we pick this up another time?” 

“Sure…” Dean replied because he couldn’t stop the guy from leaving. 

“See ya around, Dean-O.” Gabriel winked. 

Dean watched the two walk out of the room before hanging his head. He was so damn close to getting the answer. One step closer to getting the hell out of here. Dean pecked at his food, but his appetite was gone. He tossed the food in a nearby bin and left the tray on the table because he didn’t know where else to put it. With a heavy heart, Dean left and walked back into the lobby. Where Cas was standing in the center of the room. No Gabriel or Zachariah in sight. 

Dean sighed and walked over to him. “Dude? Is there a way to watch actual shows around here? No offense, but if I have to watch any more of yours and Gabriel’s acting, I might just… Cas?” 

Cas didn’t have a lot of emotions. Not on his face or in his voice, but something was wrong. The guy was already stiff, but somehow, he looked more ridgid. And his eyes, it was the closest thing Dean had seen to emotion on the guy and it made his stomach churn. There was something off with Cas, but Dean couldn’t read what it was. 

“Cas?” He asked more softly this time. 

“I’m sorry, Dean.” 

Notes:

Okay for real, I am done for tonight 🤣

Chapter 5: Rooms

“Cas?” Dean took a step back. 

He didn’t like the way Cas was looking at him. The way the alpha’s jaw seemed to twitch. A movement so small, Dean wouldn’t have noticed it if he weren’t overly aware of the guy right now. Cas didn’t say anything. He took a swift step forward, the tail of his trench coat swooshing behind him. 

“Cas! Stop!” Dean held out his hand. Doing his best not to trip on his feet as he stepped backwards. Doing his best to get away from the guy who was quickly approaching him. 

Well, maybe not his best. If he were in his right mind, he would run or prepare to fight. Instead, Dean felt his body freezing up, his mind panicking to the point he couldn’t think straight. Cas lifted his arm, his hand outstretched to Dean, and he felt his heart stop beating. He swore it did, but he was still somehow breathing, so that meant he could still run his mouth. 

“Don’t do this, Cas! Please don’t do this! Gabriel’s lying! There’s gotta be a part of you that knows he is! Please! Please! Help me find a way out! Don’t hurt me!” Dean begged, but it was useless. 

Cas slapped his hand on Dean’s forehead and… He well… Slapped his hand on Dean’s forehead and then… Nothing… Dean stared at him. His brows furrowed together as confusion washed over Cas’s face. 

“Uh…” Dean blinked. “This is kind of uncomfortable.” Cas’s face scrunched up and the guy looked like he was seconds away from shitting his pants. Dean swatted his hand away and took a step back. “Yeah, this is getting too weird.” 

“I…” Cas looked lost for words. He just kept looking at Dean like he was the oddest thing in the world. Well, he supposed he was for a world full of monsters. “I don’t understand what’s happening.” 

“That makes two of us.” Dean agreed. If Cas didn’t know why he slapped his hand on Dean’s forehead, how the hell was he supposed to know? He barely knew how these monsters worked. “Listen, you’re not like Gabriel. I can tell that. You actually give a shit about humans. If we worked together then–” 

Dean blinked and Cas was gone. He was the only one in the lobby. He fucking hated this place with its weird rules and weird monsters he couldn’t understand. Cas just vanished before his eyes and Dean was no closer to understanding what they were. Now he was here, standing alone in the lobby like an idiot. 

Dean was alone in the lobby… 

He looked over the counter. At the wall that only had two missing keys. His and Zachariah’s. 

He was alone in the lobby with no one to watch him… 

Dean ran behind the counter. He grabbed the keys, shoving them into his jeans pockets and his shirt pockets. Dean packed every single one, then he ran out the door and grabbed the first key he could reach. Room eight, so he ran all the way down until he reached the door. Dean shoved the key into it. There was one thing Dean knew about this place and it didn’t play by the rules of reality. Who the hell knew what Gabriel was hiding behind these doors? For as far as Dean knew, one of them held the secret to him getting the hell out of it. 

Dean swung the door open and took a step in before trying to push himself backwards. He flailed his arms to keep himself from falling forward, into a raging sea below him. Dean gasped, his fumbling hands finally grabbed the door frame and he used that to shove himself backwards. Dean slammed the door closed and just stood there while he tried to process what the hell he just saw. 

“Okay…” He gasped. “Okay… Just be cautious before entering a room…” 

Dean tossed the room key onto the ground and reached back into his pocket. Room three, so Dean ran back down closer to the lobby. He came to a skittering halt when he reached room three. He shoved the key in and slowly opened the door, but there was another door behind it. Dean tried the key again and no luck. It didn’t fit, so Dean tossed it on the ground and tried for another key. 

Dean ran one door passed the room he was staying in. He unlocked it and slowly opened it. To his surprise, it looked like a normal motel room. With regular walls, carpets, and a normal-looking bed. He knew the fucker was hiding something in here. This was a room someone like Gabriel would never rent out. Dean swung his body forward and pain exploded in his nose and forehead. He groaned, holding his nose as he stumbled back. It was a fucking brick wall. He just got Looney Tunes by fucking Gabriel. 

“Goddamn it!” He hissed when he pulled his hands away from his nose and there was blood on them. 

Dean threw the key down with force and tried for another. He held room one’s key in his hand. It was the room right next to the lobby and if Gabriel or Cas returned… Dean gritted his teeth and jogged over to the door. He shoved the key in and turned it. He opened the door and his heart leaped when he saw a huge library behind the door. This was exactly what he needed. If they kept books, then it had to be on their kind. Dean cautiously stuck his foot out and when he wasn’t met with another brick wall, he let out a laugh. 

Dean slowly stepped instead. Waiting for a monster to pop out at him or for an anvil to fall on his head. Dean checked the ceilings, but he didn’t see anything dangling above him. It was as safe as it would be, so he walked in and rushed over to the first bookshelf. His hand reached for the first book when it jumped out at him. 

“Shit!” Dean screamed. He fell backwards, landing hard on his ass. He looked up to see the book flapping, hovering in the air with sharp teeth. “Mario Sixty-Four?! Seriously?!” 

The book dove down at him. Dean rolled out of its way, letting it crash into the floor. He hopped to his feet and made a mad dash to the door. He could hear the book on his tail. Dean ran out of the room and turned to close the door, but the book was right there. So, Dean did the only thing anyone could do in that moment: let his body act on impulse and kicked the book. The book went flying backwards and Dean slammed the door. This time, he locked it before tossing the key over his shoulder. 

He had four more rooms to check and one of them might cost him his life. It was a risk he had to take. If he ever wanted to see his family again, he had to go on. He reached into his pocket and pulled out room key number ten. All the way down from where he was. Dean sighed and then took down the motel. He ran until he reached the last door. Dean’s arm shook and his heart pounded, but he forced himself to unlock the door. When he opened it, he was met with a seemingly never-ending ball pit. Balls of red, yellow, blue, and green gleamed under the light. 

“Ooooh, I don’t like this…” He grumbled. 

Dean hesitated, knowing Gabriel, there was some monster under those balls, waiting for him. But… But what if Gabriel wanted him to think that? What if this was the one room that actually held the exit from this place? Dean closed his eyes and gathered his nerves. He took a few deep breaths in and then out before taking the plunge. Dean jumped into the pit. 

Balls flew in every direction, like water broken by a large object. His heart pounded so hard, he could hear it drumming in his ears. He ignored it and forced himself onto his knees. Dean’s hands and arms disappeared under the balls. He patted the floor for something; he wasn’t sure what. A weapon to kill Gabriel or a trap door that would take him back to the exit he came from. So far, all his hands felt was a flat floor and plastic balls shifting away from him. He moved on his hands and knees, searching for anything. He was about three feet away from the door when something caught his eye. 

Dean’s head snapped up, expecting to see something, but all he was met with was stillness. He didn’t move an inch, kept his eyes sharp. He swore he saw something. A minute or two had to pass, or at least it felt like it, but Dean didn’t see anything else with him. He was just about to duck his head back down when it happened. About ten feet away from him, the balls were moving, and terror washed over his body. 

Whatever was under the balls, it was heading for him, and it was fast. 

“Shit!” Dean shouted. He jumped up to his feet and ran. 

Or he tried to run, but the balls were slowing him down. He was swaying at best and he could hear the thing rushing behind him. Dean’s mind buzzed louder than any alarm. Screaming at him that he would die here, but Dean kept moving as fast as he could. Until he reached the door. He had to grab the bottom of it and lift himself. 

I’m not going to make it! I’m not going to make it! It’s right behind me! Dean’s mind screamed, but somehow, he pulled himself up, rolling onto the pavement. Dean gasped and quickly scrambled to his knees. He expected to come face to face with the monster that would eat him, but there was nothing there. Just a damn pit of colorful balls. Dean kicked the door shut and forced himself up on jellied legs. He locked this door as well before tossing the key. 

When he opened the door to room nine, a spring boxing glove socked him right in the nose. Room six was just an explosion of glitter, which would be stuck on Dean until the end of time. When he stepped into room two, he was almost eaten alive by a giant Furby. Dean slammed the door and locked it before tossing the key as far as he could. Dean was bloodied, almost got ate alive three times, and he had nothing to show for it. He fell to his knees and slammed his fist onto the pavement. 

“Fuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuck!” He shouted at the top of his lungs. 

🍭🍨🍩

There was a constant bass thrumming. The red walls bore into his eyes and the leopard print was too much, even for him. Bright neon lights constantly moved on the stage. Women Gabriel conjured up, danced on poles. His brother sat back on a comfy couch with his feet up on a low black marble table. Gabriel held a sweet, fruity drink in his hand. Castiel walked over and took a seat next to his brother. 

“Dean’s not dead.” Gabriel said without looking at him. “I can feel him poking around.” 

“I tried…” Castiel admitted. 

Finally, Gabriel looked at him with a brow raised. “Tried? There’s no trying. Just fried his brains out.” 

“I tried.” Castiel growled out. “And it didn’t work.” 

Gabriel’s brows shot up. “Huh. Well, that’s new.” 

“What do we do now?” 

Gabriel shrugged. “Guess you gotta get your hands messy.” 

Castiel shook his head. “No, absolutely not.” 

“I can do it.” 

Castiel pressed his lips tight. He knew how Dean felt about his brother. He could feel how terrified the omega was of Gabriel. “I’ll do it.” 

It would be better that way. 

 

Notes:

So yeah, this simple idea has completely taken over my life 🤣

Chapter 6: Not the Best Start

“You look like you know how to have a good time.” Gabriel chuckled from behind the counter. Behind him, all the keys Dean took were back in their place. 

“You’re a real jerk, you know that?” Dean said as he limped over to the counter. The only thing worse than having a bloodied and broken nose was having a bloodied and broken nose covered in glitter. 

“Consider it a learning lesson. Don’t go poking around places you’re not meant to be poking around in.” Gabriel said as he waggled his finger. 

Dean leaned on the counter, not because he wanted to be closer to that fucker. His body was writhing in pain. “You don’t have a magical way to get rid of this glitter, do you?” 

Gabriel held up his hands. “I can do a lot of things, but even that, I can’t do.” 

Dean groaned. “Fuck, okay. Can you at least get real channels on TV?” 

“Now that I can do, but won’t.” Gabriel winked. 

“You’re a real piece of work, you know that?” Dean spat before turning around. His back hit the counter as he flinched back. Cas was right there, inches away from him. “Cas?” 

Dean gasped when Cas’s arm shot out, grabbing his shoulder with force. He barely had time to register the silver blade in Cas’s hand before the alpha pulled him closer and shoved the knife into his gut. Dean could feel it enter him, but the pain he expected to come with it wasn’t there. That was how he knew how truly fucked he was. It was far past feeling and Dean knew he would die. All he could do was stare at Cas with wide eyes and his mouth open. 

“I’m so sorry.” Cas said and for the first time, Dean could hear real emotion in the man’s voice. 

Cas yanked the blade out and took a couple of steps back and all Dean could do was stand there. Stare at the alpha as his mind tried to process the fact that he was dying. Dean’s body shook and oh god, he couldn’t even feel the burning of his pierced gut or blood rushing out of his body. 

“Y-you… You s-s-stabbed me…” Was all Dean could get out. Not how he had pictured his last moment going. He wanted to die like a badass, if he had to die young. Instead, he was a shaking mess that couldn’t think straight. “You… You stabbed me!” 

Cas took a couple more steps back with a horrified look on his face. “I… I don’t understand how this is possible.” 

Dean wanted to shout it was fucking possible because he took a blade and stabbed him in the gut with it. But when he opened his mouth, he couldn’t get the thought out. The words jumbled in his mind. Dean looked down at the stab wound Cas couldn’t tear his eyes from and it was a lot less blood than he expected to see. In fact, he didn’t see any blood at all. His hand trembled violently as he reached down and lifted his shirt. There wasn’t a bloodied hole, his skin was intact, but he felt the knife go into him. 

“You… You stabbed me…” Dean muttered because apparently, it was the only words his brain would let him get out. 

“What’s happening?” Cas asked. His voice weavered. 

“I had a feeling, but I wasn’t sure.” Gabriel said. Hopping onto the counter to use as a seat. 

“What’s going on?! Why can’t I kill him?!” Cas sounded freaked out. Dean was freaking out too. 

“You stabbed me!” Dean felt the blade go into him. There wasn’t any evidence that it did, but he felt it. 

“Yeah, you can’t kill him, Cassie.” Gabriel said. Snapping his fingers, and a lollipop appeared in his hands. “You can’t kill your true mate.” 

“True mate?!” Cas gasped. 

Dean’s head spun, the room swayed, but he still tried to take a few steps away from them both. He just needed time to process this. He heard the words Gabriel said, but they only stuck for a second. His brain took the meaning and shredded it. “You stabbed me…” 

“If you suspected he might be my true mate, why the hell did you ask me to kill him?!” Cas growled. 

“It’s not like that, Cassie! I–” Gabriel was saying, but the room was spinning way too fast now. 

Dean felt the knife go into him. He knew he felt it. 

“Y-you stabbed me…” Dean said before the room went dark. 

He could vaguely hear someone calling out his name, but that too quickly faded. 

🍭🍨🍩

Castiel caught Dean before he could hit the ground. He maneuvered the omega until he was holding him in what he had heard humans referred to as the bridal style. Castiel glared at his brother, who had the nerve to give him a sheepish smile. 

“You’re a real assbutt.” He told him and then they were in Dean’s room. 

Castiel gently placed Dean on the bed. He placed his fingers on his forehead, ridding the glitter and fixing Dean’s wounds. He stared down at the omega, his true mate. Dean was his true mate and Castiel tried to kill him. Guilt wrecked him and Castiel wanted to fall to his knees. Cry, beg, he wasn’t sure. He didn’t want to kill Dean to begin with. He never wanted to kill any human that wandered here, but there was something about Dean. Out of all the humans Castiel had to dispose of, the thought of having to kill Dean hurt the most. 

He knew, deep in his gut, his soul was trying to tell him why and he wasn’t listening. He tried to murder the one omega who was designed for him and there was no taking it back. Everyone had true mates, but meeting them could be rare. Or at least, it was for his kind. Castiel had no clue how it was for humans. And Castiel? He was given his true mate, but now he could never have him. Could never prove he could be a deserving alpha. He’d never have a chance to show Dean how cared for, how loved he would have been treated. All because he blindly followed Gabriel’s orders. 

“I’m sorry, Castiel.” 

“Go away.” He growled. 

“I really wasn’t sure.” Gabriel said. He came to stand next to him. Castiel could feel Gabriel’s eyes burning on the side of his face, but he refused to look at his brother. 

“How could you not be sure after the first time I tried to kill him?” Castiel snapped. 

“I just wanted to make sure he was your true mate and that there wasn’t anything wonky with your powers.” 

“He’s never going to accept me now…” Castiel’s words shook on their way out. 

“Of course he’s not and he never was.” Gabriel said and Castiel stared daggers at him. “Look, we now know the reason how he got here. He wasn’t a blimp like the others. Your soul and his soul were calling to each other when he got near. But!” Gabriel held out his finger, taking a step back. Murder must be written on Castiel’s face. He felt like murdering his brother. “We had no way to know that until you tried to deep fry him! But, but, buuuuuuuuut, he would have never accepted you. Not as long as he felt like he was kept here against his will.” 

“But we can’t control that.” Castiel protested. 

Gabriel’s face softened. “I know that. I know you know that, but even if Dean knows that, it… Well, doesn’t change the fact that he’s still here against his will.” 

“What do I do now?” Castiel asked. He had never felt more helpless in his entire life. 

“Let him rest.” Gabriel said. “He’s stuck here forever. You’ll have time to talk about it.” 

With that, Gabriel was gone. Leaving Castiel alone with his true mate. He looked down at Dean, who at least seemed to be resting peacefully. The last thing he wanted to do was leave Dean. He never wanted to be apart from him; now he knew the truth. But Castiel didn’t deserve the right to be near. Not unless Dean asked for him, so Castiel took off, leaving his other half alone to sleep it off. 

🍭🍨🍩

“I’m just not awkward around humans. Not like I have met that many before. Only a handful have landed in this place, but a handful is still too many. The truth is, I never thought I would have a true mate because even within my kind, I don’t fit in. I’m not the only awkward one, but even the awkward ones don’t seem to know how to handle me.” 

“You stabbed me.” Dean said.

They were sitting on the sidewalk, right outside his door. Both stared ahead at the woods across the road because neither could look at the other. This conversation was almost as awkward as Cas himself. 

“I should have known the first time I tried to kill you, but I spent so many years thinking I didn’t have a true mate. I didn’t see how I could be designed to be anyone’s alpha. If I hadn’t thought so lowly of myself, maybe I could have seen it sooner.” Cas explained. 

“You stabbed me.” The weather was nice. It was always a nice spring breeze here, but never too hot that Dean had to take off his leather coat if he didn’t want to. 

“I… I don’t know how I can make it up to you, but if you let me, I would spend eternity trying to make things right with you.” 

“You stabbed me.” He hadn’t seen it rain yet. This was his third day here and it had always been sunny. 

“Maybe this ture mate thing is a good thing. Maybe… Maybe it’s the key to freeing you.” Cas said and finally Dean turned to face the other man. 

“How?” Dean asked, but he didn’t feel an ounce of hope. He gave it his best shot getting out of here and he ended up with squat. 

“Well…” Castiel turned so he could face him better. “Maybe if we claim each other and come together as one, the fabric of your reality and mine will open a doorway to return you home.” 

“You stabbed me!” Dean shouted in disbelief. “Dude, I’m not having sex with you! You fucking stabbed me!” 

“I’m not trying to, “get into your pants”. I’m trying to figure out how to make this right.” Cas said, using actual finger quotes. 

“Look, if you even want to start trying to make this right, there’s something you can do for me.” 

Cas’s blue eyes lit up. “Yes, anything.” 

“You can get to the other side in one piece, right? It’s something your kind can handle that mine can’t, right?” Dean asked and Cas nodded his head. “Can you… Can you reach out to my family? Tell them that I’m sorry. That I never meant to leave them.” 

“I can do that for you.” Cas replied. 

Dean flinched back when Cas tried to finger his forehead. “Dude, what are you doing?” 

“If I read your mind, then I can find out exactly where your family are.” Cas replied and while Dean didn’t like the idea of the guy poking around in his mind, he nodded his head anyway. Castiel pressed his fingers to Dean’s forehead. Just for a second and he pulled away. “It will be done.”

With that, Cas was gone. Dean didn’t even blink this time and Cas just disappeared. Dean sighed and his head fell into his hands. “I’m never gonna get used to this.” 

🍭🍨🍩

Mary hummed as John ran his fingers through her hair. They were cuddled up on the couch, a TV show was playing, but she couldn’t pay attention to it. John was doing her best to relax her, but Mary didn’t think she’d calm down until Dean called her, telling her he was in Cali. Everyone around her kept telling her things were better for omegas now, but she remembered how it used to be. 

Before John sat down and held her, she had been checking her phone about every five minutes. Dean had let her know when he left, but she hadn’t heard from him since. She thought he would at least message her when he stopped for lunch. Mary tried to tell herself Dean would call when he checked into a motel. She tried so hard to believe that her son was still on the road. It made logical sense, but she couldn’t quiet the voice that screamed something wasn’t right. 

“You’re thinking too hard.” John chuckled. 

“And you’re using too much calming pheremones.” She retorted. 

He snorted. “Not nearly enough. You’re a jitterbug.” 

“But Dean–” 

“Can take care of himself.” John pulled her closer. “I made sure of it.” 

Mary tried to settle in his hold. Fight off the itching temptation to grab her phone again. She turned her gaze to the TV, but she focused on how John’s hold brought her comfort. Slowly, she felt herself relaxing. Just in time, knocking brought them out of their little bubble. 

“Stacy’s here. Dear? Do you mind grabbing her baking dish for me?” She asked. 

“On it.” 

They got up, John headed to the kitchen, and Mary opened the door. She frowned when she didn’t see anyone there, but something on the door caught her eye. She grabbed the piece of paper that was taped to their door. The world crumbled beneath her feet as she read it. 

I have your son 

You’ll probably never see him again

I’m sorry about that

He wanted to let you all know that he loves you 

and he didn’t leave on purpose

It’s true. Dean had no choice in this 

Again, I’m sorry 

 

 

“John!” Mary screamed. John came running to her, no mistaking the urgency in her voice. She could hear the panic in her clear as day. 

He didn’t have time to ask her what was wrong. Or maybe he didn’t have to because of her scent. John took the note, read it, before sprinting down their driveway. Mary briefly saw him checking the roads. Whoever left the note was quick. Mary couldn’t even smell them anymore. Even betas had a scent, a light one, but there was nothing. 

Mary's trembling hand grabbed the door frame. She used it to push her back into the house. Then instincts kicked in and she ran for her phone. She tried calling Dean, but she couldn’t even reach his voicemail. Dread clawed its way into her pounding heart. Mary pulled up Sam’s number. Running her hand through her hair as she walked back over to the door. She could see John running house to house. She could hear him asking their neighbors if they had seen anyone at their door.  

“Hey mom!” Sam answered. 

“Sammy, when was the last time you talked to Dean?”  

“Mom? Are you okay? You sound–” 

“Dean? When was the last time you talked to him?” She asked with a little more force this time. 

“About an hour ago? Why?”  

Mary’s head spun, someone would have enough time to snatch Dean and taunt them with that note within an hour. Someone took her baby and she felt helpless. She didn’t know where to begin to get him back. Cops? They were useless in her time. Her baby was gone and she didn’t know what to do. 

Chapter 7: The Reveal

When Dean entered his room, it had changed. It now looked like a normal motel room. Tan walls with no Gabriels on them. Normal carpet and a flowery comforter every motel had. Dean dragged his legs to the bed and dropped himself onto it. When he tried the TV, it was normal programs that would play in his normal reality. 

Perks of having a monster for a true mate…  

Dean rotted his brain on TV shows for hours. Cas knocked on the door, but Dean didn’t bother getting up. He only got up when he needed to use the bathroom. Answering the door was too much energy. Eventually, Cas shouted through the door, telling him he was leaving food for him. Dean would get up for some food. When he opened the door, Cas wasn’t there, but there was a tray of burgers, fries, a Coke, and even a slice of pie. 

Dean tried not to think about how Cas knew this information because he let the alpha poke around in his mind. Instead, he grabbed the tray, and it was the start of their new routine. Dean wouldn’t leave the room. He would shower with the world’s greatest water pressure (again, being true mates with a monster had its perks) and waste his time watching TV or listening to his music. Cas would knock on his door three times a day to leave him food. Every time Dean opened the door, Cas wouldn’t be there. He would eat his favorite meals and had pie for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. 

Dean knew he needed to leave the room. He had to figure out what Cas and Gabriel were, so he could hatch a plan to escape. Even if it was most likely useless. Fuck it, though, it wasn’t like he’d be leaving anytime soon. 

So he watched movies, listened to music, took the best showers in his damn life, and ate the food Cas left for him. 

Days turned into a whole week and a half, and even Dean could only take so much of one room. So, before lunchtime, he opened his door and stepped out. He closed his eyes as he felt the same spring breeze that always blew. He took in a deep breath, filling his lungs with fresh air. Then he strolled towards the lobby. Zachriah’s car was gone, but that was okay. Cas was his true mate. A true mate that stabbed him, so the alpha owed him some answers. 

“Holy shit! Dean-O!” Gabriel gasped when Dean pushed through the door. “I was starting to miss that pretty face.” 

“A pretty face you wanted dead.” Dean reminded him and Gabriel held up his hands. Like the bastard was trying to show he meant no harm after everything he put him through. “Listen, is Cas around? I need to talk to him.” 

Gabriel looked over his shoulder and then, at the top of his lungs, shouted, “Yo! Cassie! Your lover boy is here!” 

Cas rushed out of the back door but froze the second he laid eyes on Dean. He watched emotions dance in those blue eyes and it was kind of freaky. More freaky than the emotionless Cas he knew and only that guy could pull something like that off. 

“Hello Dean.” 

“Heya Cas, we gotta talk.” 

Cas’s eyes dropped to the floor and he nodded. He opened his mouth, but he couldn’t get a word out before Gabriel butted in. “Hold on, let me get some popcorn!” 

“Alone.” Dean glared at the omega. “We’re going to talk alone.” 

“Of coure.” Cas said and gestured to the back door. “We can talk back here.” 

“Ugggh! You guys are no fun!” Gabriel whined, but Dean ignored him. 

He walked through the door and he gasped. He blinked once, then twice, but it was real. Dean was back in his apartment. He stepped further in, hardly believing it. Everything was exactly how he remembered it. His purple plaid shirt was still on his couch. It had been there, sitting there for days. Dean kept saying he’d put it up, but kept forgetting it until the next time he saw it. Dean huffed a laugh. He couldn’t remember why he never just did it. 

His TV stand was a mess. DVDs of horror and Western movies were scattered on top of it. Something else Dean never bothered to do, put them back on the shelf. He turned his head and he saw his kitchen. He couldn’t see it from where he stood, but he knew there was still a plate, a fork, and a coffee mug in the sink. He couldn’t be bothered washing them before he left. Dean laughed as it hit him. He was still a mess, and it was a wonder how he could be someone’s true mate, human or monster. 

He turned to Cas when he heard him close the door. Unshed tears filled his eyes as he stared at him in disbelief. “H-how? How did you get me back?” 

His heart shattered when Cas hung his head in shame. “I’m sorry, Dean, but this isn’t real. The door… It manifests into what we want it to be. For me, it’s a park on a quiet day and for you…” 

“My home…” Dean sighed and rubbed his hand over his face. He could feel his heart breaking, but he didn’t have time for that. He’d been left in the dark for too long and it was time to understand exactly what Cas was. So, he locked his emotions into a box and gestured to the couch. “Take a seat.”

Cas slowly walked over to the couch, sweeping his trench coat as he slowly sat down. Dean took a seat on the opposite side, leaving a space between them. 

“It’s good to see you again.” Cas said.

“Yeah no, we’re not here for that.” Dean said and he watched Cas’s shoulders slump. “Look, I think it’s about time to tell me what exactly you are. What Gabriel is, what everyone in this world is. You owe me that.” 

Cas nodded his head. “You’re right. You deserve the truth. I’m an angel and my brother, Gabriel, is an archangel.” 

Cas waited for a reaction, but Dean waited for the guy to stop fucking with him. When it finally clicked that Cas was far from the jokester from Gabriel was, who was apparently his damn brother, Dean’s eyes grew huge. 

“Angels?!” Dean blurted and Cas nodded his head. “Like, angel angels?! Like Heaven and Hell isn’t just a bunch of bullshit?!” 

Cas sighed. “It’s… More complicated than that…” 

Dean leaned back in and crossed his arms. “Well, we've got all the time, so explain. Or are you going to wait until I die of old age?” Dean frowned. “Wait, can I die of old age in this world?” 

“We’re not exactly sure. We never had a human stay with us very long.” Cas replied and Dean raised a brow. 

“Because you kill them?” Dean asked and guilt leaked out of Cas’s scent. “You can throw yourself a pity party later. Just… Help me understand what this is.” 

“So, Heaven and Hell were never meant to be… Years ago, when the veil was thinner and humans could see us. There was a misunderstanding…” 

“Oookay? How?” 

Cas shifted in his seat, his hands clasped tightly together. “People used to understand that we weren’t gods. We were just something different to them, but then the veil started to close and while we could still reach their world, they couldn’t reach us. Over time, we stopped visiting. We decided that the humans were still in the early stages of development and they couldn’t rely on us to solve everything. We had to let humans survive on their own. Which was a good idea in theory, but what happened was that fact became an extraordinary big fish tale. That’s why you have Christianity, Judaism, Paganism, the list goes on. I mean, we already interfered enough with the whole soul thing.” 

“Whoa, whoa, hold on.” Dean waved his hands to get Cas to slow down. “What the fuck do you mean by the whole soul thing?” 

“Well… It’s just that when we found your dimension, there were a lot of wandering lost souls. It didn’t feel right to just leave them there, so…” Cas shrugged. “We created new dimensions for the souls to have an afterlife. Well, the archangels did. Angels don’t have that kind of power.” 

“Okay… Okay… We’ll get to the angels vs archangels later…” Dean grumbled while pinching the bridge of his nose. Cas didn’t give him time to process this information. He just kept going. 

“My kind created the dimensions you know as Heaven and Hell. We decided that it wouldn’t be fair to group good souls with bad souls. The fairies?” Cas huffed out air and shook his head. “The fairies couldn’t come to a conclusive agreement, so they created several afterlives. Some believed souls should be reborn if they wanted and others wanted to create a land of endless summer. The—” 

“Cas! Hold the fuck on! Fairies?!” Dean asked, hating how how pitched his voice got, but come on! Fairies?! 

“We weren’t the only ones who found your dimension. There were the elves, dwarves, giants, and trolls. They worked together to make the nine realms. They have a Hel too, but it’s different than ours. If I’m being honest, we stole the name from them. We didn’t know what to call our bad place, so we called it Hell too, but just added an extra L.” 

“Oh god…” Dean’s elbows dug into his legs, his grip in his hair was tightening by the second. 

“There are others out there, but the gist is simple. Every race has assigned members to reap the souls and watch over them in the afterlife. Depending on what they believed in during life. It makes it easier for them.” 

“What would have happened to me?!” Dean threw up his hands. “I wasn’t a believer in anything!” 

“In that case, an impartial party would have collected you and you could have chosen which afterlife you wanted.” Cas scoffed his foot on the floor. “Unless a person had done something incredibly evil and didn’t believe anything. Then we get dibs on them. But you wouldn’t have to worry about that. You have a good soul.” 

“Fuck…” Dean sighed, digging his fingers into the scalp. His eyes darted to the ceiling before landing back on Cas. “So what is up with the Mystery Inn Motel?” 

“It was my brother’s idea. He didn’t like working in Heaven. It’s actually a really stiff job. Only a few angels get to interact with humans. Most of us never get to see an actual human. The creation of systems was created way before most of us were born. Including me and Gabriel. We have office jobs to help Heaven. Keep the place running. Gabriel wasn’t one to just sit behind a desk, so he talked me into opening a motel for angels. Only angels, somewhere to get away when they needed a break. Human souls were never meant to wander in and it was a… System bug we could never figure out.” 

“Then you can get me out of here! If this is just another dimension created by an archangel, and souls can be brought to dimensions created by archangels, then there has to be a way out.” And holy shit, Dean couldn’t believe he was just going on with this. It was official, he lost his damn mind. 

Cas huffed and shook his head. “It’s not that simple. Each afterlife has a whole system running it. Heaven is run by two archangels and thousands of angels. The motel is run by a single archangel. Gabriel just doesn’t have the same power as Heaven.” 

Dean’s body slumped. “Couldn’t some of the angels come and help me get out?” 

“Heaven isn’t easy to manage. You humans reproduce a lot faster than angels. If it wasn’t already complicated enough, after Zachariah’s mishap… No one is coming. Not any time soon.” 

So, back to finding a way to kill Gabriel, then. If there was even a way to kill a fucking archangel. Dean sat up straight, glaring into Cas’s eyes. “Why kill people who end up here when you have the means to take care of them?” 

Cas hung his head. “We tried that. Once we figured out we couldn’t get them out safely, we offered them a place to live. Either they slowly went insane. If insanity didn’t get them…” 

“Then what, Cas? What was so bad you had to kill people?” Dean demanded. 

“My brother, my other brother. He’d find out there was a human here and we couldn’t stop him. He was too powerful for us to stop. He’d get his hands on the person and even with Gabriel and me combined, we couldn’t put them back together.” Cas looked Dean in the eyes. Regret and guilt filled them. “I never wanted to kill a human, but it was merciful compared to what would have happened if my brother got his hands on them.” 

Dean felt his blood run cold. “Is… Is your brother going to come after me?” 

“No.” Cas replied firmly. “My brother might… See humans as playthings, but he loves me. He would never hurt you because that would mean hurting me.” 

The room was swaying again and he felt a little sick to his stomach. Dean stood up and walked to the fridge for a beer. He could use a drink, but he needed to move more than anything. Cas slowly got up and followed him. Dean uncapped two bottles and offered one to Cas. 

“I don’t have the need to drink.” 

Dean shoved the bottle into his hands. “No, but you stabbed me, so you can drink with me.” 

Cas quickly took a sip. Dean leaned on the counter and lazily sipped his while his brain processed it all. It was a hard thing to grasp and that was coming from a guy who almost got eaten alive by a ball pit monster. He thought if he thought too much about it, his brain would explode. So, he kept it simple: Angels were just another form of being and one of those assholes created a pocket dimension that trapped him. That was good enough for Dean for now.  

“Let me ask you something else.” 

“Of course.” Cas replied eagerly. “I’ll tell you anything you want to know.” 

“Why are some of you guys angels and some of you guys archangels? Like, what determines that?” He asked before pressing the tip of the bottle to his lips. 

“Oh yeah. That’s right… Humans only have two.” Cas muttered and Dean raised a brow. 

“Huh?” 

“Well, you know how you have the first gender?” Cas asked. 

“Yeah?”  

“Then you have your subgender. What determines if you’re an omega or alpha? Well, angels, we have our gender, secondary gender, but we also have a third gender. Angel or archangel.” Cas said and Dean’s brows shot up. 

“So what? There’s a chance you get a double whammy? Alpha and archangel?!” Dean asked and Cas nodded his head. “Damn.” 

“I know this might be a lot to process, but if there’s anything I can–”

“How could a human kill someone like you?” Dean asked and Cas’s eyes grew twice their size. 

For a moment, Dean wondered if Cas would actually answer him. Then a blade appeared in Cas’s hand, the very blade he had used to stab him with. Cas flipped it in his hand, where the tip was digging into his skin and he offered Dean the handle. “This could kill me. Unfortunately, seeing how we’re true mates, it wouldn’t work in your hands. I could, however, use it on myself. If that’s what you wish.” 

Dean looked Cas dead in the eyes. “I don’t want to be mated to you. I’m not sure I ever will.” 

“I understand.” Cas said in an even voice, but Dean could see the hurt in them. 

“But I might be here forever and I’m going to need a friend. What do you say, Cas? Wanna be my friend?” Dean asked and a huge smile broke out across Cas’s face. 

“I would very much like that.” 

If Cas’s blade could kill him, then maybe it could kill Gabriel and take down this place without killing Dean in the process. But if he did this, he had to do it right. He couldn’t just go in there guns ablazing. For once in his life, Dean had to play it smart. 

Notes:

It's two am, so just one more chapter for now and then I'm heading to bed lol

Chapter 8: Day by Day

Day 14

 

That was right, Dean had been here for fourteen days now. He started to keep track in a notebook that Cas gave him. Today started Dean’s plan. Befriend Cas and Gabriel, get their guards down, and then stab that mother fucker. It was a slow day, so it was a great day to ask the brothers to play a game with him. 

“I… I don’t think I understand this game.” Cas grumbled. “There are so many weapons and suspects. Anyone could have been capable of killing Mr. Boddy.” 

“Cas, for the last time, the rest of the cards aren’t the weapon. We shuffled the place cards, the weapon cards, and the suspect cards. I drew a random card from each and put it in the envelope. The goal is to narrow down what weapons weren’t used like the other cards and whoever figures it out and calls correctly wins the game.” Dean explained, but Cas only looked more confused. 

They sat on the lobby’s floor playing together. They played a few rounds and Dean and Gabriel smoked poor Cas. The guy never fully grasped the concept of the game. It was part of the mission, but Dean actually laughed along with Gabriel. 

Day 15 

 

“I don’t understand.” Cas said as he buckled up. “Taking me with you won’t end the loop.” 

“I’m not trying to get out.” Dean replied as he shuffled through his box of cassette tapes. “I know the road only leads back here, but if we’re going to be friends…” Dean grinned when he found what he was looking for. He flashed Cas the Led Zeppelin tape. “Then I gotta teach you about what humanity has the best to offer, music.” 

Dean swapped out tapes, pressed play, and turned up the volume.

It wasn’t the same as driving on the open, free road. No interesting new things to see as he passed by towns. Just a road that would eventually loop back to the motel. He wasn’t alone on his drive, but it was still silent. Cas didn’t say a word, just bobbed his head as the music played. It was kind of nice, not as awkward as Dean thought it would be. There was still an aching in his chest, knowing he may never see another road besides this one again. 

But hey, at least he could still drive and listen to his music. 

And no cops, so he drove as fast as he pleased. 

Day 25 

 

“Oh, sorry that you don’t like flavors! Cake has frosting and pies have boring crust! If that!” Gabriel protested and Dean slammed his fist down on the counter. 

“I’m sorry you don’t know pies from your ass!” Dean countered and Gabriel gasped. 

“If pies are so great, then why don’t you humans do birthday pies or wedding pies?!” 

“Well, if I weren’t trapped in this hellhole and could get mated, I would so have a wedding pie! Just like I have birthday pies on my birthday!” 

Their debate was getting more heated. Poor Cas was leaning on the counter, next to Dean, listening to it all go down. 

“I think they both have pros.” Cas tried. 

“You don’t even eat!” Gabriel cried. 

“Okay.” Dean threw his hands up in the air. “If cakes are sooooo great, then why does everyone bring pies to Thanksgiving and Christmas dinner?!” 

“Oh!” Gabriel slammed his hand down. “You wanna bring up human holidays?! Fine! I’ll bring in angelic holidays! On Luminaris, we celebrate with cake. Take that, you stupid pie-eating fleshbag!” 

“Cakes aren’t a traditional Luminaris dish.” Cas said and Dean threw his head back and laughed. 

“Damn it, Cassie!” Gabriel growled. 

The bell rang before Gabriel could go on about his stupid takes on cakes being better than pies. They all looked over to the door to see an omega guy with boyish dark hair standing in the doorway. 

“Inias!” Gabriel excitedly shouted. 

“Hello Gabriel. Hello Castiel. Hello–” Inias stopped in his tracks, his eyes growing wide when they landed on Dean. 

Dean smiled and waved at him. “Heya! Dean Winchester, residential human.” 

“And my true mate.” Cas piped in. “Though we’re not romantically together.” 

“Oh…” Inias said. Not knowing what else to say in response. Not like Dean could blame him. 

“How long will you be staying with us?” Gabriel asked. Pulling Inias’s attention away from Dean.

While Gabriel checked the guy in, Dean grabbed Cas’s arm and dragged him to the backroom. While Gabriel worked, they would stuff their faces with pies. 

Day 27 

 

“Wait really?”  Inias asked in disbelief. He and Dean were sitting at a booth. Around them, Cas, Gabriel, and all the workers in the kitchen gathered to listen in. “Humans only have a first and secondary gender? Not a third?” 

Dean chuckled. “That’s right! And thank god for that! A lot of human alphas can be real nightmares. I couldn’t imagine if those asshats were born with another reason to be cocky.” 

That earned him a laugh, but it wasn’t long before Inias leaned in, eyes lighting with interest. “Can human male omegas have pups like angel male omegas can?” 

“Yeah, we can get pregnant, but we gotta get c-sections to get the pups out.” Dean answered and the angels reacted in a way he wasn’t expecting. Some gasped and others muttered to each other. “What?” 

“You can’t physically give birth?” Inias asked like he couldn’t believe it. 

Dean’s brows shot up. “You can?!” 

“Well, yeah.” Inias started to talk with his hands as he spoke. “When the pup is fully developed, it’ll transform into a ball of light, leave the uterus, and the…” He shrugged. “Pup in your arms.” 

Dean snorted and slapped his hand down on the table. “Man, do you guys have it easy! It’s messy for us humans.” 

Samandriel leaned in closer. “Zachariah said that you said humans die easily.” 

Dean chuckled. “It’s true. Gather close, everyone. I’m going to tell you a whole list of ways we can die and it’ll only be the tip of the iceberg.” 

The angels did so, pressing in close as Dean prepared to tell them all the simple ways humans could die that would blow their minds away. 

Day 34 

 

“Okay, Cas, another thing about being human. Fishing and drinking beer.” Dean raised his bottle and Cas clinked it with his. 

They were in a back room, manifested as one of Dean’s favorite fishing spots. A quiet little area he always visited. Usually, he would still see others fishing on the other side, but everyone tried to space out not to bother each other. There was no one else here. Not on the other side of the river. Dean couldn’t hear people walking the trails. It was just him and Cas and he tried not to focus on how eerie it felt. 

Instead, he got comfy in his chair and sipped on his beer as he waited for a bite. 

“It’s very relaxing here.” Cas told him, taking in the area. “I can see why you liked visiting this place.” 

“Oh, this is nothing compared to the real deal. If we ever find a way to get me out in one piece, I’ll have to take you here for real.” Cas didn’t say anything. He and Dean both knew what the chances of that were. So, Dean enjoyed the silence and the company. “Are there even fish in this river?” 

“No.” 

Dean shrugged. “Hell, at least we still have beer.” 

Day 44

 

“Do it! Do it! Do it!” Dean, Gabriel, Samandriel, Muriel, Malachi, and Conrad chanted. 

They were in Dean’s room. He was lying on the bed with his neck exposed. Cas stood above him, with an axe in his hands. His arms shook and he kept shaking his head. “I don’t want to do this.” 

“Damn it, Cassie! Swing the axe down!” Gabriel shouted. 

“Dude, it’s not like you’re gonna kill me.” Dean laughed, but Cas threw the axe to the ground. 

“I don’t care that I can’t kill you. I don’t want to do this.” 

“Aww…” Malachi sighed. 

Gabriel huffed. “Now what are we going to do?”

“You got laser tag around here?” Dean asked and a grin broke out across Gabriel’s face. 

He elbowed Cas in the shoulder. “Dude, how did you end up with such an awesome true mate?!” 

Day 47 

 

Dean’s head ducked as he kept beating the table with his fist. He laughed so hard, he had damn tears in his eyes.  

“...and that’s how young angels get into trouble.” Cas laughed. 

“Whew.” Dean sighed. Wiping a tear from his eye. “You have me beat. I think the most trouble I ever got in was sneaking into a nightclub underage and getting high. Not sneaking into the fairies' version of Hell.” 

“My mother, Naomi, wasn’t thrilled with me at all. She’s an alpha and archangel and she wanted to throw me into a void for a few decades.” Cas said with a damn fond smile. “But my father was always a little softer when it came to us. He begged my mom to just sit me in a corner for a couple of weeks. My mom is very fond of my father, so she didn’t have the heart to make him upset.” Cas shrugged. “And that’s how I avoided the void that time.”

“So…” Dean played with the soda cup in his hands, wondering if he even wanted to know, but curiosity was too strong. “What happens in the void?” 

 “Oh.” Cas sighed. “It’s horrible. You just keep falling because it’s a never-ending dark hole, while my mother endlessly scolds you.” 

Dean barked out a laugh. “You make all my punishments seem like a slap on the wrist. Got any more young wild Cas stories?” 

Day 55

 

“Guys, it’s really not that hard.” Dean was in the cafeteria. Trying to teach Samandriel, Muriel, Malachi, and Conrad how to work a yoyo. It wasn’t like they were serving food to anyone when Dean wasn’t bugging them. “Here, give it to me. I’ll show you how to do it again.” 

Day 62

 

Dean held the biggest tub of popcorn he had ever seen in his life. They were in the backroom that Dean made into a theater, with his freaking mind! (He would never get used to this. It would always blow him away.) Gabriel sat to the right of him and Cas sat to the left of him. Gabriel was snacking on every theater candy known to man.

“You guys just don’t get it. The Good, the Bad and the Ugly is the greatest Western film ever.” Dean excitedly told them as he waited for the movie to start. He insisted they watch trailers and ads before the movie. Gabriel and Cas needed the real movie-going experience. 

“I don’t see what the big deal about a cowboy is.” Gabriel said with a mouth full of candy. 

“Oh, trust me, you will after this film.” Dean told him. 

“I don’t understand why I’m dressed like a cowboy too.” Cas said. 

Oh yeah, Dean got to dress up like a cowboy because there weren’t strangers to make fun of him.  

“Because you stabbed me.” Dean replied before shoving a handful of popcorn into his mouth. 

Day 89 

 

Dean sighed and stepped away from the game. They were in an arcade room of his making. It didn’t feel the same when he was the only one shouting. The magic was kind of lost when he didn’t have to wait for a game to open up or watch other people play. Dean tried not to think about it. Just enjoyed what he could get, but he kept getting killed by aliens. 

Dean huffed and threw up his hand. “You try.” 

“Okay.” Cas said and stepped up. 

Dean crossed his arms and watched, waiting for Cas to get destroyed in the blink of an eye. Cas did, a couple of times, until he figured out the buttons. Then Dean was watching in amazement as Cas flew by the levels. He dodged attacks and hit the target with accuracy Dean had never seen before. 

“Dude! How can you never figure out who killed Mr. Boddy, but you can play a human arcade?!” 

“I can see the target.” Cas replied like it were the most obvious thing. 

“Holy shit! I might see the end of this game!” There might not be an end, the game might keep going, but Dean was excited. He leaned in closer, inches away from Cas. 

 

Day 104 

 

“No, I don’t understand the rules.” Cas said. They were sitting cross-legged in the lobby, in a close circle. 

“Okay, so I’m going to swing this sticky hand.” Dean showed off his blue sticky hand he got from the machine in his room because he could have that in his room. “And I’m going to spin it around. Then I’m going to try to smack your head. You guys got to dodge it. Ready?” 

“Bring it on, Dean-O.” Gabriel smirked. 

Dean lifted his arm and started to spin the sticky hand. His eyes darted back and forth between Cas and Gabriel. He had a huge smile on his face because he didn’t know who he’d try to hit. Cas did stab him, but Gabriel fucked with him more, but Cas stabbed him. At the last second, he decided on Gabriel, but the other omega ducked out of the way. He and Dean broke out into laughter. Even Cas was chuckling with a smile on his face. 

“Angels one! Humans zero!” Gabriel laughed while pointing at him. 

“Yeah, yeah, whatever. It’s your turn.” Dean handed him the sticky finger. 

Gabe spun it quickly, but shortly before he went in for his attack. Dean didn’t have any time to react. The rubbery hand smacked him so hard on the cheek, they heard the pop rattling off the walls. Dean stared at Gabriel, Gabriel stared at him, and Cas darted between the two of them. Then they broke out into laughter. Dean laughed so hard he fell to the ground. 

Day 185 

 

Dean was relaxing on his bed. Dr. Sexy MD was playing in the background as Dean wrote in his notebook. He flipped it to the last few pages of the notebook to write down a list of things he had to introduce Cas to. Like TV shows and movies, they hadn’t watched together yet. Rolling blading, never been a big deal to Dean, but Cas had to experience that. He was running out of room on the first page, and if he kept thinking of things, he’d have to move up a page he had started on. But the front part was for keeping track of days. Dean was pulled from his thoughts when there was a knock on the door. 

“Coming, Cas!” Dean called out. He placed the notebook down and swung his legs off the bed. 

It wasn’t uncommon for Cas to come visit him now. They would watch TV together or just talk. This room used to be Dean’s escape when he wanted alone time, but now, he didn’t hate it when the angel came to visit him. 

If he were really honest with himself, he really liked it when Cas came over. 

“Hey C–” Was all Dean could get out when he opened the door. Cas quickly squeezed between him and the door. Cas turned and the guy looked like he was seconds away from a panic attack, so Dean quickly shut the door. “Cas? What’s going on?” 

“Dean!” He gasped. “I was doing paperwork and–” 

“Wait?” Dean huffed a laughed. “You guys actually do work around here?”  

“This is important, Dean.” 

“Okay. I’m listening. What’s up?” 

“I was doing paperwork and I saw that your birthday had come and passed. Why didn’t you tell me?” 

It took Dean a moment to figure out what to say because the way Cas was sounding, someone would think the world was ending. “Ummm… Yeah? But you and Gabriel didn’t tell me your birthday, so what’s the big deal?” 

Cas’s hands landed on his hips. “Angels don’t celebrate birthdays like humans do. On an angel’s birthday, they will give gifts and celebrate the parents who brought them into the world. Look, I don’t know much about humans, but I know a few things, and I know humans celebrate the day they were born. We never got to celebrate you being born, Dean.” 

Dean shrugged and then walked over to his bed so he could take a seat. “I don’t know what to tell ya, man. I guess I didn’t feel like celebrating.” 

Cas’s face softened. He slowly walked over and took a seat next to Dean. Sitting so close to him that their shoulders and thighs were pressed together. “Is it because you couldn’t be with your family?” 

No was on the tip of his tongue, but Dean’s throat suddenly tightened and he couldn’t get the words out. Dean had been doing his damn best not to think about his reality. Tried to distract himself, and there were some days he forgot he was warming up to Cas and Gabriel just so he could get his hands on Gabriel’s blade. Dean wasn’t sure when, but it became more about not letting the weight crush him. 

Hell, at some point, he ended up actually thinking of Cas as a friend. 

Gabriel, too, but he wasn’t ready to admit that. 

But he missed his family so damn much, and if he thought about them, he would break down. And Dean didn’t want to break down. If he ended up crying, it would make everything real. 

“They’re probably happy I’m gone.” Damn it, his voice came out broken. “All of this is probably for the best.” 

They probably thought he just ran off, mated to some alpha he just met. 

Or they probably thought he ran his mouth and got himself into trouble. For all he knew, they thought his body was dumped in some random woods. They probably just shrugged and said it was bound to happen. 

Maybe they didn’t care what happened. Maybe they were just relieved they didn’t have to put up with him and his bullshit anymore. 

“Dean. Your family loves you.” Cas told him, but he couldn’t know that. 

Dean ran his arm over his eyes, wiping away traitorous tears that fell. He could feel Cas’s arm move. The alpha was cautious, unsure, but he still wrapped his arms around Dean. He leaned into the hold, resting his head on Cas’s chest. 

Notes:

Okay, so this chapter is the longest one so far, but I had a blast writing it lol

Chapter 9: Surprise!

When Dean woke up, he was alone in his bed. Last night, Cas held him while he sobbed like a little bitch. Not his finest moment, but it was a new day. Maybe Dean would take Cas to the backroom turned dive bar. They could play pool together and Dean could find out how drunk he had to get an angel to get them to forget what happened last night. 

Dean tossed the blankets off and he shivered. It was weird, after half a year here, Dean had gotten used to the same temperature that never changed. He got dressed, putting on his leather jacket and this time, because he had to. Usually, he didn’t need it here; he just wore it for style. 

And it used to belong to his dad… 

Dean opened the door and if his jaw could drop to the floor, it would. It was snowing, had been for a while because the ground was covered in it. Dean stepped out, eyes filled with wonderment. He huffed out air and watched it dance. He laughed as he bent down, scooping snow with his bare hands. It was cold to the touch and it was amazing. 

He had to get Cas and Gabe. He had to teach them about how humans played in snow. He had to teach them snowball fights, building snowmen, and what his kind called snow angels. And if this snow wasn’t toxin, like human snow ended up being, then they had to make snow cream. Dean hurried to the lobby, but he frowned when he saw that the lights were off. He opened the door, but Gabe wasn’t at the counter like he usually was. 

“Cas?” He called out as he stepped into the usually quiet motel. “Gabe?” 

There wasn’t any answer, so he headed for the backroom. Maybe he could find them there. But when he tried the door, it was locked. Dean’s frown deepened and he had a funny feeling in his gut. Something was wrong, they never locked the back door. 

Dean let go and walked over to the cafeteria, but the lights were off too and it was empty. Samandriel wasn’t making silly announcements over the speaker. Malachi wasn’t trying to drag the others into doing something stupid to pass the time. 

“Cas?” Dean shouted as he walked further into the room. Dean looked around. Nothing was out of place, but everyone was just gone. “Guys?!” 

A snap broke the silence and Dean had to close his eyes when everything suddenly became bright. It took him a second or two to get used to the brightness. When he opened his eyes he didn’t have time to process what was happening. 

“Surprise!” They all shouted. 

Everyone was there, smiling at him and wearing colorful birthday hats. Dean could barely wrap his mind around what he was seeing. The angels chuckled at him, but they gave him time to take it all in. They were standing behind a table filled with Dean’s favorite food and snacks. There was a pie in the center with unlit candles in it. In fact, they put twenty-seven candles in the pie. 

There was another table that held coolers of beer and then another table that had presents on it. Every table, even those that were empty, was decorated with birthday decorations. The walls had colorful banters and there were balloons everywhere. 

“Guys! What did you do?!” Dean asked, hardly believing it. 

“It’s called a surprise birthday party, dumbass.” Gabe answered before blowing a party blower. 

“We looked it up in a book about humans.” Muriel told him. “Did we do it right?” 

“Best surprise party I’ve ever seen.” Dean laughed and Muriel and Conrad high-fived each other. 

“Thanks, guys. I can’t believe you went through all this trouble just for me.” Dean still could hardly believe it. Not believing what he saw was easier, cause if he did, he’d start getting emotional. 

“Gabriel did all the hard work.” Samandriel said, but Gabe only shrugged. 

“Just a snap of my fingers.” 

“It’s not even my birthday!” Dean laughed. 

“Then it’s a belated birthday party.” Gabe countered.

“Happy Birthday, Dean.” Cas said with a nervous smile and a party hat in his hands. “I hope… We didn’t overstep.” 

“Dude, this is great. I don’t know how to thank you all.” Dean said as he bent his neck so Cas could strap the party hat onto him. 

“You can thank us by having fun.” Gabe said. 

Dean gasped, just now remembering the snow. “Guys! We gotta go outside! Not like this isn’t great, but it’s snowing! You won’t believe it, but it’s actually snow–” Dean looked at how they didn’t seem surprised that the weather that never changed was doing something different. Then it hit him. Dean looked at Cas with a smile on his face, and put his hands on his hips. “You. You poked around my mind to find out I always dreamed of having a snowy birthday, didn’t you?” 

Cas shrugged. “I did.” 

Dean playfully smacked him on the shoulder. “You shouldn’t have!” 

Cas ducked his head, but not before Dean caught a sheepish smile on his face. “I just wanted you to have the best birthday.”

“Oh, you! Come here!” Dean grabbed Cas and pulled him into a hug. “Thank you.” 

“You’re welcome, Dean.” Cas replied, hugging him back and Dean felt a warm, fuzzy feeling in his chest. 

Gabe clapped his hands together. “Well, what are we waiting for? Let’s get out there!” 

“But the food!” Dean gasped, pulling away from Cas. “How long do you think the snow will last? We can’t let the food go bad!” 

“Dean, the food will stay warm and the drinks will still be cold when we get back. No matter how long we stay out there. The snow won’t go anywhere unless I will it away, so,” Gabe crossed his arms and raised his brow. “The question is, what do you wanna do first?” 

Dean grinned; he felt like a pup again. That sense of magic and wonder seeping into his skin and settling into his bones. Dean started to tug off his leather coat. “Just let me run into the back room and grab another coat. Leather doesn’t do well for playing in the snow.” 

“Then why not just take off the coat? Why do you need another one?” Malachi asked with a confused expression on his face. 

Before Dean could explain it, Muriel piped in. “Humans are sensitive to weather! They can get too hot or too cold. I also read that in a book!” 

Malachi’s mouth hung open as he stared at Dean in disbelief. “Is it true?” 

“Yeah, it’s true.” He chuckled. 

“Here!” Gabe tossed Dean a thick green jacket that seemed to come from nowhere. “Now let’s go out there and play.” 

Dean smiled as the others vanished. Too excited to walk the short walk outside. The only one who stayed behind was Cas. Dean held out his hand, and Cas just stared at it. Dean raised a brow, shook his hand until finally the alpha slowly reached out. Cas placed his hand into Dean’s and he intertwined their fingers together. 

“So, angels don’t hold hands or something?” Dean asked as they walked together. 

“No.” Cas replied. “But this is nice.” 

“Yeah, it is, isn’t it?” It felt right and Dean wasn’t sure if it was the true mate thing or if he had actually started to like Cas. As a friend, but still, something about it felt nice. “Oooh, I don’t know what to do first. There are so many ways to play in the snow. Do angels have snow?” 

“We do.” Cas hummed and Dean watched him thinking. “When we were younger, Gabriel would make us snow castles.” 

Dean’s brows shot up. “Like, castle-size castles?” 

“Yes.” 

Dean huffed a laugh. “Well, we humans don’t do anything that grand, but we still had fun.” 

“I look forward to it.” Cas said with a smile, which made Dean’s smile grow.  

When they stepped, Gabriel had already created a snowman. Not like a snowman-snowman, but a detailed sculpture of a man as tall as the motel’s sign. Muriel and Conrad were looking at a plot of snow, seeming to talk out what they would build. Malachi and Samandriel were nowhere in sight. Dean decided to show these featherless angels how it was done. 

“Guys!” He shouted as he and Cas reached the yard. They all gathered around, but he was still missing two angels. “Where’s Samandriel and–” Was all he got out before Samadriel came crashing to the ground. He left a huge dent in the snow. Dean hovered over the hole. “Dude?! Are you okay?!” 

Malachi appeared next to him, smiling ear to ear. “Yeah, he’s fine.” 

“We were just playing a game.” Samandriel explained as Dean helped him out of the hole. 

“Well, we humans don’t play games like that, but–” Dean started, but he was interrupted by Conrad. 

“Because you die so easily?” 

“No, well, maybe, but like, we just do things our own way.” Dean nervously laughed. He didn’t want to know what angels considered games. “Listen, I want to show you a few things we do and what better way than to start off with snow angels? Cause you guys are angels.” He laughed as he pictured angels making snow angels. 

Cas’s head tilted. “Is it a game?” 

“No, it’s just something we do. Here, let me show you.” 

Dean walked to undisturbed snow. The angels followed him, curiosity written over their faces. Dean smiled at them, fell backwards into the snow, and started moving his arms and legs. 

Dean remembered when he and Sam used to do this, the rare times it snowed enough. Sammy would giggle as they worked together to make a circle of snow angels. 

Dean reached his hand up and Cas helped pull him to his feet. He smiled at the angels as they observed his snow angel. 

“But our wings don’t look like that,” Muriel said, and okay, Dean had no clue angels had wings. He’d never seen them before. 

“Where are our hands?” Samandriel asked. 

“And how come we only have one giant foot?” Malachi added. 

Dean let out a nervous chuckle and rubbed the back of his neck. “It’s not a foot. It’s a robe and that’s just how humans think angels look.” 

“Huh.” Gabe said. “Well, what the hell?” 

He spun and fell backwards into the snow. He laughed as he did the same thing Dean did. When he stood up, Dean ran a hand through his hair. The body part looked just like Dean’s, but there were six extra wings, three on each side, and they were huge. The other angels laughed and then they tried it. But they came out with two extra wings. 

They had wings… Wings Dean couldn’t see… 

Cas did a snow angel too, but he did his right next to Dean’s, so when he was done, it looked like they were holding hands. It did look like it, but there weren’t any huge wings like Dean expected. His confusion had to be painfully clear because Cas chuckled as Dean helped him to his feet. 

“I tucked my wings away. I didn’t want them ruining your snow angel.” Cas explained, like that would make any sense to Dean. He just smiled at Cas. 

“What’s next?” Samandriel asked. Sounding like an excited pup on Christmas morning. 

Dean showed them how his kind built snowmen. Gabe tried to argue with him that it wasn’t a man, just a bunch of snowballs. He told the archangel to shush it. This was how humans did it, so they were going to do the same thing too. Everyone seemed to have fun, looking for rocks and twigs to make eyes, a nose, and a smile. Dean’s hands were hurting from the cold, but Cas did his finger to forehead thing and the pain went away. Gabriel gave him gloves that came from thin air. 

Dean asked for a scarf and a smoking pipe. He had Muriel and Conrad put on the scarf, Samandriel put in the pipe, and Malachi came back with bigger twigs for arms. Dean smiled as he watched them decorate the snowman. It reminded him of the times he would help Sammy build snowmen. He could still see the bright smile on Sammy’s face. 

Next, Dean taught them how to have snowball fights and that was a hit with the angels. They had a blast balling up snow, chasing each other, and throwing the balls at each other. Dean never felt more alive as he ran from beings faster than him. He got struck the most, but he got some hits in. Cas tried to be sneaky. He would disappear and then try to pop in behind Dean to get him with a snowball. Dean started to catch on and when he felt eyes on him, he’d spin on his heels and throw snow in Cas’s face. 

Laughter filled the air and it was magical. He and Cas even got to the point where they stopped throwing snowballs at each other. They kneeled in the snow and would just scoop the snow in their hands and throw it at each other. 

It was a kind of magic Dean hadn’t felt in years. 

Mary made sure they were bundled up to go outside. He and Sammy would run around the yard, looking at the snow like it was the most wonderful thing in the world. They would build snowmen, make snow angels, and chase each other with snowballs. When they got too cold, they would run back in where their mom had hot chocolate ready for them. Their dad would cuddle them while they watched cartoons. They’d stay like that until their mugs were empty and they were ready to go back out. Their mom would bundle them up again and they would run outside. Out and in, out and in. No damn care in the world. While they played, their mom would make them snow cream and– 

“Dean!” Cas’s urgent voice cut through the memories. Dean gasped. Suddenly aware he was surrounded by the angels. He hadn’t realized he had been crying until he felt the tear tracks frozen to his cheeks. Cas was holding him, rubbing circles between his shoulder blades. “Dean? What’s wrong?” 

“Nothing.” Dean sobbed. “It’s nothing, it’s just that…” 

But he couldn’t get the words out. Another sob escaped him and he hung his head in shame. Cas pulled him closer, and Dean’s nose found the crook of the alpha’s neck. Dean held onto Cas like he was the only thing keeping him grounded. 

“What happened? Did Castiel throw the snow too hard?” Conrad asked. 

“Not now.” Gabe hissed. 

The next thing Dean knew, there was another pair of arms around him. Gabe had joined them down in the snow, hugging Dean. Trying to make something better that couldn’t be fixed. No amount of angel mojo could take the pain away, but at least Dean had friends. 

“We should go back in.” Dean sniffled. “The party isn’t over until someone throws up.” 

“Is… Is that a real human tradition?” Cas asked and it made Dean laugh. 

Dean didn’t want to sit here and cry like some whimp, but he didn’t have the energy to move. He was trapped in a weird ass dimension he couldn’t get out of, and he would probably be stuck here forever. Dean thought it would be okay if he let himself be held for just a little bit longer. 

Notes:

Lol I have to get up early in the morning. So no more chapters for now

Chapter 10: Family Reunion

Once Dean excused himself and washed his face, he returned to the cafeteria. He ate his fill of pizza because pizza was classic birthday food, but he also had burgers because what kind of idiot didn’t eat burgers when they were around? He drank, and he was the only one getting tipsy because, apparently, angels had a high tolerance when it came to alcohol. Because why wouldn’t they? 

So Dean was the only one tipsy and playing games meant for pups. The angels didn’t know that. They just read about human birthday games and didn’t realize they weren’t meant for grown adults. He didn’t have the heart to tell them, so he let himself be blindfolded and let Cas spin him a few times. 

He heard them laughing as he tried to walk towards where he thought the poster of the donkey was. Not an easy feat when he had drunk too much. Dean swayed back and forth and he could hear Gabe telling Cas that he wasn’t some fragile thing and he could do this by himself. Finally, Dean found the wall and pinned the tail in. He knew he missed when the laughter grew louder. He lifted his blindfold and saw he missed the mark so far that he didn’t even stick anywhere on the donkey. 

Another thing Dean learned was that angels took games seriously. That would argue who got it closer to the target, but to Dean, it looked like they all hit it where it was supposed to go. They didn’t even try to walk to it. They would spin each other as hard as they could. Then they would throw the fucking dart and hit the tiny circle it was supposed to go. Even Cas wasn’t immune to competition. He got into a heated debate with Gabe about who “won” the game. 

Dean played fucking musical chairs. Something he hadn’t done since grade school. He wasn’t the first one out. He had a sneaking feeling the angels were trying to keep him in the game until he was the second-to-last person. It would make it an easier win for them. The angels didn’t just walk around the chairs and tried to grab a chair. They pretty much rammed into each other for a seat. When Malachi finally got Dean out of the game, he barely bumped hips into him to knock him off the chair they both landed on. 

Then Dean was blindfolded again and handed a baseball bat. Cas spun him and Dean swung it until he busted the Piñata. He fully expected the angels to dive at the candy like crazed people, but he didn’t think they fully understood this game. They just clapped and cheered for him. 

He was hoping the one birthday tradition they didn’t know was the happy birthday song. They did know it, kind of. They sang it, but it was a version Dean had never heard of. When asked where they heard it, Gabe said he had spied on a human’s birthday party in Australia. 

“Hip, hip hooray–” They tried to sing again, but Dean held up his hands.

“One’s enough. Totally normal to only sing it once.” 

“Time to blow out the candles.” Cas said and Dean sucked in a deep breath. 

He quickly made a wish that he could see his family again. He blew out the candles and everyone around him clapped. They clapped a lot and it made Dean chuckle. He didn’t remember so much clapping from his previous birthdays. Gabe raised his hand, fingers ready to snap, but Cas grabbed his arm. 

“No. It’s important to physically cut the cake. In this case, pie.” 

Gabe cocked a brow. “Seems like a waste of time to me.” 

“Nooo, I think cake cutting is only important for weddings.” Muriel said and then everyone looked over at Dean for the answer. 

“We’re cutting the pie.” Dean answered. “Listen, glad that you guys have the power to bend reality, but–” 

“Oh, we can’t. Only Gabriel can.” Cas said and Dean shook his head with a fond smile. 

“My point is, it would be nice to do things the human way now and then.” Dean said and Gabe shrugged before snapping his fingers. A knife appeared and he offered it to him. Well, close enough. Dean turned and offered the knife to Cas with a cheesy grin plastered to his face. “True mates of the birthday guy cuts the pie.” 

Cas took it without question and Dean knew beyond a doubt that the guy actually believed it was a real tradition. He waited for Dean to pluck out all twenty-seven candles before cutting the pie and serving pieces to everyone. Gabriel and the other angels gathered around each other. Laughing and talking, but Dean took his plate and walked outside. The air was still chilly, but he couldn’t get enough of the snow. Even when it did snow on Earth, it had been years since it looked like this. 

“Are you having a good day?” Cas asked, suddenly standing next to Dean. He held a plate with a piece of pie. It made his heart melt because he knew the angel never ate, but he was for him. 

“It’s been awesome. I mean, besides making a fool out of myself earlier.” Dean said with a huge piece of pie in his mouth. 

“No one thinks you’re a fool.” Cas firmly said. “If either of us couldn’t see our loved ones, we’d be upset too.” 

Dean shrugged. “It does suck, you know. That I haven’t seen my family in six months, but you all are helping me get through it.” Dean leaned onto Cas. “Thank you for being my friend.” 

Cas rested his head on Dean’s. “It’s the best thing that’s ever happened to me.” 

Dean forgot his pie for a moment. He closed his eyes and took in Cas’s scent. He could stand here for a while, just like this. 

So, of course, the small word would rumble. Dean yelped as his and Cas’s plates shattered to the ground. Dean fell onto his hands and knees and Cas fell on his ass. 

“What the fuck is happening?!” Dean shouted. 

“It’s my brother’s way of saying hello!” Cas yelled so Dean could hear him. 

“Brother?!” Dean’s heart sank. “You’re not talking about the brother who likes to mutilate humans, are you?!” 

Dean got his answer when Cas pressed his lips tightly together. The world shook so violently that Dean thought it would crumble. Then there was a high-pitched ringing rattling in his skull. Dean squeezed his eyes shut and covered his ears. 

It stopped as suddenly as it started. Dean opened his eyes and dropped his hands. 

“He’s here.” Cas said and Dean gulped. 

They pushed themselves up and Cas grabbed Dean’s hand tightly as they entered the lobby. An older man was leaning on the counter with his arms crossed. He had messy blonde hair, blue eyes, and a scruffy five o’clock shadow. Dean could barely smell the alpha on him over the sulfur, smoke, decay, and a heavy dose of iron. The alpha turned his head and he raised a brow when he saw them holding hands. 

“Castiel? Why are you holding a human’s hand? I don’t understand the purpose.” 

Cas opened his mouth to speak, but Gabe came busting through the cafeteria’s door. “Luci! Good to see you! You know there’s an entrance, right?” 

The alpha, apparently named Luci, shrugged. “Where’s the fun in that?” 

Usually, Dean would be snarking off, but he kept his mouth shut. There was something about this alpha that had his inner omega screaming danger . Dean might not be the smartest guy, but he wasn’t an idiot either. 

“So, what do we owe the pleasure?” Gabe asked. 

Luci turned his head and grinned in a way that didn’t feel friendly. Dean’s skin inched under those icy blue eyes. Cas must not have liked the way the guy was staring at him because he pulled him closer. 

“I heard you guys finally got another human.” Luci answered. “I wanted to come and play, but now I’m curious. What does the hand holding mean? What does it accomplish?” 

“You can’t play with this one.” Cas told him and Luci just lifted a brow. He looked amused that Cas would try to stop him. “I’m serious. He’s my true mate.” 

That caught Luci’s attention. He pushed himself from the counter and placed his hands on his hips. He looked at both of them, and Dean couldn’t stop himself from feeling like they were being studied. 

“Really?” He asked. “An angel and a human? I’ve never heard of that happening before.” 

“Well, it did.” Cas firmly told him. 

“Fine, then prove it.” 

“Fine.” Cas growled. The knife appeared in his hand and Dean prepared to be stabbed again. But Cas offered Dean the knife. “Prove to him that–” Dean snatched the knife and shoved it into Cas’s gut. His eyes widened in shock and he looked just as surprised when Dean pulled it away. “Wow... That–” 

“Right?!” Dean gasped. “It feels weird, doesn’t it?” 

“Yeah.” 

“It’s like you feel it, but there’s no–” 

“Pain.” Cas finished for him. 

“Well, I’ll be damned.” Luci huffed, amazement written on his face. “This is so odd. Kind of cool in a way. Even if it’s a bummer cause now me and this human can’t play.” 

“His name is Dean.” Cas said. “And you got a realm full of souls you can play with, Lucifer.” 

“Lucifer?!” Dean shouted, unable to believe what he just heard. “Like Satan?! Like the fallen angel?!” 

“Dean…” Cas said in a stressed, hushed voice. “Don’t you remember when–” 

“Hey!” The actual fucking devil pointed a finger at Dean. “I take offense to that! I have never gone by the name, Satan.” 

Gabe snorted. “His birth name was Lucieriel, but he was tooooo cool for that. Had to change it up.” 

“And I also take offense to the fallen angel.” Lucifer added. “I never fell. Michael and I sat down to decide who’d run Heave and Hell. He wanted to debate it, but no way would I let him run the fun realm while I was stuck in a monkey suit.” 

 “Oh…” Dean rubbed the back of his neck. “Uh, sorry about that.” 

“Water under the bridge, but only because you’re my brother’s true mate.” Lucifer winked. 

Dean yelped when the world started to shake again. Gabe glared at Lucifer and snarled. “I thought you said you were only here to check out the human!” 

“Well… It was true too.” Lucifer answered like he was bored, and the motel didn’t feel like it would come crumbling down. 

“Oh shit!” Cas cried. 

He grabbed Dean’s shoulders and then the next thing he knew, they were right near the tree line. The sudden change left Dean so disoriented that he fell to his knees and vomited. When he looked up, light filled the motel room. He could hear glass breaking and things exploding. 

“What the fuck is going on?!” 

Cas let out an exhausted sigh. “It appears Lucifer has done something to anger Michael.” 

“Michael?! The ruler of Heaven?!” 

“Our oldest brother.” Cas added. 

Dean watched in horror as bits and pieces of the motel exploded. He saw part of the roof blast off so high in the sky that he couldn’t see it anymore. The doors flew off their hinges. One landed in the parking lot and the other landed inches away from them. Then, and Dean swore he didn’t blink, the doors were back in place and the roof was in one piece. The lights were gone, and there was no more thunderous sound. 

“What–” Dean started, but he choked on the rest of the question when an alpha appeared in front of him. The neat, dark-haired man in the sharp suit smelled like crisp, clean air, Frankincense, and myrrh.

“So, you’re Dean? Castiel’s true mate?” The man asked in a booming voice that made Cas’s voice sound high-pitched. 

“Yes?” Dean hardly got the word out. There was something about this alpha that creeped him out more than Lucifer. 

“Michael.” He said before he snapped his fingers and a present appeared. He offered it to Dean, whose hands shook as he took the gift. “I heard that it was traditional to present humans gifts on their birthday.” 

“Thank you–” Dean started, but Michael was gone. 

He half expected the fight to continue, but it was eerily quiet. Oh shit, did Michael kill Lucifer?!

“Oh, that’s right. We should go back in so you can open your gifts.” Cas said. 

“Can… Can we just uh… Sit here for just a moment?” Dean asked. He needed a moment or two to process what the hell just happened. 

Cas nodded and he helped Dean down to the ground. He held Dean close as he stared at the perfectly stabled motel still standing. 

Notes:

Whew, I'm tired. Did a lot of yard work lol. However, good news. Got two more chapters after this one. Just got to read through them lol

Chapter 11: The Gift

Notes:

Guys, my cat wanted cuddles and he let me know by jumping onto my keyboard. I think I got all the random numbers mixed with letters out, but if I missed any and you see anything like that, it's my cat saying hey lol

The buzz filled the air as Mystery Spot Inn’s sign flickered in the night sky. From across the parking lot, he could see the lobby lights on, but there wasn’t a sign of life. No one was in the lobby where he could see. There was only one car, one that was so familiar it hurt, but it filled his heart with hope at the same time. 

Dean’s car. 

His grip tightened on the baseball bat. He slowly made his way across the parking lot. Eyes darting, sure someone was watching him even though he was the only one out there. Once he was at the door the Impala was parked in front of, he double checked his surroundings before knocking on the door. 

“Dean?” Sam asked, but he was met with silence. He tried again, but there wasn’t an answer. 

The lights were off in the room and Sam had a real bad feeling. 

The baseball bat shifted in his hands, ready to take a swing. Sam took a step back from the window and swung as hard as he could. The glass easily gave in, shattering into the motel’s room. He took the bat and rammed it into the glass that remained until it was clear enough. Sam swung his leg in and ducked his head. The room was pitch black and his eyes weren’t quickly adjusting to the dark. 

His hand hit the wall and he used that to guide him to the light switch. He flipped it up and his mouth dropped open in shock, unable to believe what he saw. He was in a mirror maze. What the hell is this place?  

Sam took a deep breath and readied his bat. He would have to use his shoe to guide him. He needed both of his hands. He needed to be ready to attack because he didn’t know what was around the corner. The countless reflections of himself made him uneasy, but he tried to push the feeling aside. He needed to be brave; he needed to find his brother. 

“Dean?” Sam called out, but once again, there was no answer. 

Sam managed to round corner after corner, calling Dean’s name, but there was nothing but silence and his reflections. The deeper Sam went into the maze, the more the sense of wrongness had the hairs on the back of his neck standing up. Sam didn’t know how Dean ended up here or how he got here. 

The only thing he knew was that this place was not meant to exist. They were not meant to be there. 

“Dean!” Sam tried again. His tone mangled with worry and urgency. 

No answer, again, not for the first few handful of seconds. 

Then he heard it, a sound that sent chills down his spine. A twisted chuckle he was too familiar with. Sam gasped, his eyes widened as he turned around, but all he saw was his own, spooked reflections. He signed and scolded himself. Told himself that it was just all in his mind. This place was just unnerving, that was all. He needed to be the alpha he was and go on. He had to bring his brother back home. 

Sam turned back around and he froze in horror. It smiled at him with its huge white glove. white face, red nose, and a huge red twisted smile. A tiny top hand and long, long, long green hair. A red coat that was too big and a flower pinned to it. A whacky tie, striped pants of yellow and purple, and huge red shoes. It laughed at him as it smiled, and the worst thing was, Sam couldn’t tell where it was. He couldn’t tell what was a reflection and what was real. 

Sam choked down a scream and turned. He had to get the hell out of here. He tried to make his slow approach back, but he could hear those damn large shoes slapping the ground. Sam did the one thing he shouldn’t, he let the panic consume him. The bat hit the ground and Sam tried to run. His hands kept hitting glass and his mind kept buzzing, preventing him from remembering which way he came from. 

His breath came out in sharp huffs, his heart slammed into his chest, and his body violently shook. Sam kept looking over his shoulder and every time it was a mistake. He’d see countless clowns running after him. 

“Of fuck!” He cried. 

He had to get out of here! Sam’s hands slammed against the mirrors and he ran into more than one in his panicked state. He wasn’t getting anywhere and he could hear the clown laughing right behind him. All Sam could do was slam his eyes closed and wait. 

Nothing happened, though. There was no pain, no taunting, just silence. 

When he dared to peek one eye open, he just saw his reflection. Sweat poured down his forehead and he was breathing like a man who had just run a marathon, but he couldn’t see anyone behind him in the mirrors. Sam had to use the mirrors in front of him to help turn himself around. 

When he did, Sam’s back slammed into the mirrors, and he gasped, but it wasn’t a clown. It was a shorter man with longish hair and golden hazel eyes. Sam wanted to ask who he was, but he knew this man. He had dreamed of him before. The man tilted his head and smirked at him. 

“Well, now this doesn’t make sense.” He chuckled. “You shouldn’t be able to dream about this place.” 

“What?” Sam managed to ask before he sat up, gasping for air. 

He kept sucking in air, but his lungs couldn’t get enough. His heart was racing so fast, he was sure it would give out. 

“Hey.” A soothing voice called out. Arms reached out, pulling him close. Fingers ran through his sweaty hair. “It’s okay, it was just a nightmare.” Sam closed his eyes and tried to breathe through it. He focused on the alpha’s hold on him and her calming pheromones. “That’s it.” Jess cooed. “You’re doing great, just breathe for me, baby.” 

Eventually, Sam’s breathing became even and his pulse slowed. Jess held him tightly, like she could protect him from his own mind. 

But it didn’t feel like it was just his mind. It felt like something bigger, something Sam couldn’t understand. Before Dean went missing, Sam had a nightmare, one he didn’t tell anyone about. He dreamed that a man with dark hair wearing a tan trench coat held his brother while a man with longer, light brown hair stabbed Dean in the gut. Sam tried to just write it off as some crazy dream. 

Dean hadn’t even been missing for two days, but Sam’s gut was screaming he was in danger. He had that dream, his brother vanished off the face of the earth, and he had another nightmare about the same man he had dreamed killed Dean. 

No matter how much Sam wanted to tell himself Dean would turn back up, he felt like he was just trying to fool himself. That if he didn’t do something soon, his first nightmare would come to pass. 

“Do you want to talk about it?” Jess whispered. “Was it about your brother?” 

Sam gasped when he remembered the name of the place in his dream. “I–I have to look something up!” 

Jess let go of him when he turned, snatching his phone from his nightstand. Sam’s hands shook and he had to retype what he was trying to spell out because he kept hitting the wrong buttons. 

“What’s going on?” Jess calmly asked. She was great at keeping Sam grounded, normally, but this was different. 

Sam had two nightmares of this man and his gut was screaming it wasn’t just a dream. That this strange man existed and he was going to kill his brother. “I think I know where Dean is! I-I know it’s going to sound crazy, but I had a dream about this motel and I think someone is holding my brother there.” 

Jess was quiet; he knew he sounded insane, but she just let him Google the place. His heart sank when he saw no results. He was sure that was what the place was called in his dream, but Mystery Spot Inn didn’t exist. Sam’s shoulder slumped and he felt this weight crushing him. 

Sam ran his hand through his hair. “But it felt so real…” 

“I know.” Jess tried, but she didn’t. No one could understand. She gently rubbed Sam’s bicep. “But you told me a bit about Dean. Maybe he just got distracted? Maybe he gambled his phone and lost it or something? I’m sure whenever he gets done with whatever he got himself into, he’ll be here.” 

Normally, Sam would be the first to jump on that line of thought. He wanted to believe it so badly that he wouldn’t even be upset if Dean were to knock on his door. He wouldn’t be angry if Dean gave him a sheepish smile and a shrug. Sam wouldn’t be hurt if Dean said that he was sorry, but there was this really hot alpha and he just lost track of time. Sam would just be happy his dumbass brother was alive. Sam would grab him and pull him into a hug. He would tell Dean it was okay, he just wanted to work on being brothers again. Sam would kill for that because his gut told him that if he didn’t find Dean soon, it would be too late. 

🍭🍨🍩

Dean fell stomach-first onto his bed. Today had been a fun day. A strange and somewhat terrifying day, but a fun day. He was exhausted, though. He didn’t even put up all the presents everyone got him. He just left them on the couch for now. Right now, he just wanted to sleep, but there was a knock on the door. I hope that’s Cas, not one of his older brothers. Dean forced himself over the bed and opened the door; luckily, it was Cas. 

He smiled. “Heya Cas? What’s up?” 

“Is this a bad time?” 

“No, come on in.” Dean opened the door. 

Cas walked in and took a seat on the edge of Dean’s bed. The guy looked nervous and Dean wondered if this had anything to do with Michael or Lucifer. He hadn’t seen the two in hours, but now and then, there would be an explosion, part of the motel would be destroyed, and Gabe had to fix it. Apparently, Lucifer was creating pocket dimensions within Gabe’s pocket dimension to try to get away from Michael, who kept finding him. 

And Dean used to think it was bad when he and Sammy got into it. 

Dean took a seat next to Cas and bumped their shoulders together. “What’s going on?” 

Cas ran his tongue over his lips, wrangling his hands together. “I um… I got you a birthday gift.” 

Dean huffed a laugh. “I know. I opened them up earlier?” 

It was a kick ass gift. Cas had given Dean a few posters of his favorite bands so he could decorate his room. Dean couldn’t wait to put them up when he didn’t feel like he could crash out at any second. 

“I uh…” Cas hung his head down and scuffed his shoe on the floor. “I have another one for you, but I wanted to give it to you when we were alone.” 

Dean’s brows shot up. “Thank you, but you didn’t have to go through the trouble.” 

“It was no trouble. It took me seconds.” Cas said, making Dean chuckle. 

Cas reached into his pocket and froze for a moment before pulling it out. Dean couldn’t see what it was through his fist, but he could see a black cord. It was a necklace, Dean could make out that much. Cas extended his arm out and Dean opened his hands. Cas dropped it and he couldn’t believe what he was seeing. He held it up to get a closer look. 

It was in a small, little vial attached ot the cord. A bluish white light that seemed to move with life. Dean gasped. “Cas, it’s beautiful, but what is it?” 

Cas twiddled his thumbs and bounced his knees. “There’s this tradition angels have.” 

“Okay?” Dean asked as a way to get the alpha to go on. 

“It doesn’t happen very often because it can be rare for angels to find their truemates.” Cas eventually said. “I know that we’re not… In my tradition, when angels find their true mates, they each cut out a piece of their grace. I believed you called it angel mojo once.” He chuckled. “We put it into little bottles and gift our grace to our true mates. So we can have a little piece of them with us, even when we’re apart.” 

Dean’s breath caught in his throat. He could hardly believe what he was holding right now. There were so many emotions crashing into him, he couldn’t say a word. Which was a bad thing because Cas smelled even more nervous than before. 

“I know that we’re not together romantically. I’m okay with that, truly. I’m honored to be your friend, but as your true mate.” Cas shrugged, unable to look at Dean. “I wanted you to have it.” 

Dean slipped the cord over his head. Cas’s grace settled over his heart and it felt right. Cas felt right, no matter how hard he tried to deny it. Dean’s head spun, his mind raced, and the only word he could get out of his mouth was, “Cas?” 

Finally, Cas lifted his head, turned to meet Dean’s gaze. In a split second, Dean moved, crashing their lips together. 

 

Notes:

Every time I say that I had so much fun writing a chapter, I say it about the next chapter lol. This story has taken over my life 🤣

Chapter 12: The Predicament

His fingers ran through dark hair. His other hand didn’t know where to go. It was trying to touch every inch of the tan coat. There were hands on him, more cautious than his, but that mouth wasn’t. Cas kissed him with passion Dean had never felt before, but the alpha was letting him take the lead. Only giving what Dean would allow him to. Dean pulled away, only to catch his breath. His mind spun, but in a good way. Like being on a ride at a theme park.  

“Are you sure?” Cas asked. “Is this okay?” 

Dean answered by shoving the angel down onto the bed. Well, only because Cas let him. Dean knew he was powerless, didn’t have the strength Cas had. Still, the alpha gasped when his back hit the mattress below him. He stared up at Dean with wide eyes filled with wonder and amazement. Dean straddled the alpha and dipped down. Their lips met again, but Dean needed more. So, he ran his tongue across Cas’s lips and he opened up for him like the good alpha he was. While their tongues explored each other’s mouths, Cas held onto him. Running his hands up and down Dean’s back. 

His mind or soul (which apparently was a real thing) kept shouting just how right this was. Dean never felt lonely before. Not until he kissed Cas. Now he realized how long he had gone on through life, missing a piece of a puzzle he finally found. He needed more; he needed Cas like he needed air. And if the way Cas kissed him back was any indication, the alpha felt the same way. 

Dean wanted more, he didn’t want this moment to end. He wanted to lose himself in Cas. 

So, of course, the cockblockers would choose this moment to reappear. The whole motel shook and every window shattered. From the lobby, they could hear Gabe cussing out Lucifer and Michael. 

“That’s it!” Dean growled. He rolled off Cas and stormed to the doors.

“Dean?!” Cas gasped, quickly catching up to him. “What do you think you’re doing?!” 

“I’m giving your brothers a piece of my mind!” Dean answered, already stepping out into the chilly night air. 

“Are you crazy?!” Cas cired. “Do you know how dangerous it is to get between two archangels having a spat?!” 

Dean huffed and threw his arms up. “Newsflash, Cas! You’re true mate is crazy, so get used to it.” 

“Dean! Please reconsider! I’m sure they’ll work it out in a decade or two!” 

“I’m not dealing with this for a whole decade!” 

Dean knew Cas wasn’t happy about this. He kept hearing the alpha huff and mumble something under his breath, but he ignored it. He marched his ass to the lobby, which had been fixed by the time they reached the door. Inside, Gabe held his angel blade, growling as he looked around. 

“I’m going to kill them!” He shouted. “You hear me?! I’m going to kill you both if you don’t take your fight outside my motel!” Gabe looked like a crazed man. His eyes were wild and he was snarling. “Get the fuck out of my motel!” 

Cas sighed and turned to Dean with regret in his eyes. “Would you be okay if we… I need to calm him down.” 

“Of course, go do what you need to.” Dean smiled, patting Cas’s shoulder, and doing his best to let the guy know he wasn’t upset. 

Cas gave him a grateful smile before he walked over ot his brother.

“I’m gonna kill them, Cassie! I’m going to stab them in the throat!” Gabe said like a madman, foaming at the mouth.  

Cas wrapped his arms around Gabe. “Come on.” 

Dean watched Cas lead Gabe towards the counter while the archangel ranted on about Luci and Mikey. Then, to Dean’s complete shock, he watched as Gabe left his blade on the counter as he continued to bitch about his brothers. Dean’s heart skipped a beat, or maybe ten, as he watched Cas and Gabe enter the back room.  

Dean’s heart pounded, and the palms of his hands became sweaty as he stared at the blade. This had to be a trick, right? Why else would he just leave it there? Unless… Gabe trusted Dean… 

He stood there, not knowing what to do. He was looking at the only chance to get him back home. Dean looked around, but he didn’t see anyone else there. Dean ran and snatched the blade before sprinting out of the lobby. 

Dean slammed his door closed and locked every lock he had, even though it wouldn’t do him any good if an angel did want to come in. His body trembled as he walked over to his bed. Dean leaned against his headboard and stared at the knife in front of him. 

This was it… The moment he had been waiting for. Only took over half a year. He finally had it in his hands, but… 

Dean groaned as he rubbed his hands over his face. 

Dean knew his plan: get close to Cas and Gabe. Close enough to grab Gabe’s blade when his guard was down. And boy, was Gabe’s guard down. Not only with Lucifer and Michael causing chaos, but Gabe thought of Dean as a friend. How could he stab the guy now? Dean knew the goddamn plan, but he wasn’t expecting to actually end up liking the guy. Now it was even more complicated because he went and fell in love with Cas. How the fuck was he supposed to stab his true mate’s brother? 

“Fuuuuuuuck!” Dean groaned. “Fuck, fuck, fuck, fuuuuuuuuck! Why?! Just why?!” 

How could Dean go through with this? After everything they’ve been through together? After Cas and Gabe threw him a fuckin’ birthday party? After Gabe made it snow for him? After Cas and fuckin’ Gabe held him while he cried? After Cas gave him part of his goddamn grace? How could he stab both of them in the back like this? 

But… 

This might be Dean’s only chance to get out of this world. If Gabe were dead, this place couldn’t exist, right? If this place didn’t exist, in theory, Dean should return to his world. Then he could see his family. It was his only chance to see his family again. If he didn’t do this, then he was throwing it all away. He was saying goodbye to his family without being able to say goodbye. 

Over the next hour, Dean cussed, banged his head on the wall, but he was no closer to figuring out what he should do. 

If he didn’t kill Gabe, he would never see his family again. If he killed Gabe, then he was throwing everything away that he and Cas could be. 

Dean hid the damn knife in the dresser after two hours. He couldn’t look at it. 

After hour three, he was sitting on the edge of his bed. His head in his hands and he still had no fucking clue what to do. He was given an impossible choice. 

He didn’t have to torture himself much longer. Not when Lucifer suddenly appeared in his bedroom. Dean didn’t have time to yelp before Michael appeared. Raising a glowing hand with the same white and blue energy Dean had around his neck. 

“Whoa!” Lucifer held up his hands. “Time out! Human in the room! Human in the room!” 

The energy disappeared as Michael slowly turned his head to face Dean. “Oh. We should take this somewhere else.” 

“Duh!” Lucifer spat. 

“That’s it!” Dean snapped. He was on his feet before he knew it. “That’s enough! You two are going to listen to me right now!” 

Dean shivered when he fully got both of their attention on him. Lucifer looked amused, but Michael had no expression on his face. Dean had no idea what the guy was thinking or feeling. Dean knew how he felt. He suddenly felt like a small ant facing two giants. Dean swallowed his nerves and held his head high. 

“Whatever you two are fighting about? It doesn’t matter!” 

“It most certainly does.” Michael replied. “You wouldn’t understand it. If I tried to explain it, your tiny human mind wouldn’t be able to handle it.” 

Dean wasn’t sure if that was meant to be taken as an insult or not. Michael held the same expression, so for all he knew, it was just an angel thing not getting people. Still, Dean held his damn ground. 

“Maybe that’s true, but what I do know is that you’re brothers! You still have each other. I can’t see my brother.” Dean gulped; he felt his Adam’s apple bob, but he tried to keep his voice even. “I wasn’t the best big brother. In fact, I was a pretty shitty one. I ended up in this place I can’t get out of. I was on my way to try to repair our relationship, and now, it’ll never happen. You two are just spoiled brats! Be happy you still have each other and count your lucky stars you do! I mean, how would you feel if Lucifer were thrown into a cage he couldn’t get out of? If you couldn’t see him anymore?” 

Lucifer snorted. “I’d like to see any cage contain me.” 

“Humor me!” Dean growled. “I know it’s hard for your kind, but suspend your belief for just one damn moment! Say there was a way to trap you both?! Say that there were symbols or something that could trap Michael in a coffin? A coffin that was tossed into the sea, and he couldn’t escape from it. Imagine never being able to get out, never being able to see your brother again. To never make up for what, in the end, is a petty fight. I’m going through that and it’s fuckin’ insulting to see you two go at it when you both have the chance to talk it out.” 

Michael hung his head in shame. “I suppose you may have a point.” 

Lucifer’s shoulders slumped. “Yeah… I mean… It’s kind of fun to get you riled up, but… I think I’ve had enough fun.” 

Then they were gone and Dean was alone again. He sighed, finally knowing what he had to do. He walked over to the dresser and hid Gabe’s blade in the pocket of his coat. He opened the door and made his way to the lobby. Cas wasn’t there, but Gabe was back. On his knees, looking under the seats in the lobby. Dean took a deep breath, reminded himself of what he had to do, and walked in. 

“Oh, hey Dean.” Gabe greeted him as he pushed himself up and rushed over to a potted plant in the corner. He began digging through it. “Sorry about my dumb ass brothers. They have this epic fight about every century.” 

“What are you looking for?” Dean asked as he slowly crept towards Gabe. 

Gabe huffed. “My angel blade! It’s gone!” 

He ran over to the counter and bent down. Dean followed him. Watched him move around folders, a paddle ball, and more rubber duckies than Dean expected one person to have. His brows furrowed. “Can’t you snap your fingers and make it reappear?” 

Gabe let out a humorless chuckle. “No. It’s hard to explain, but the way they’re made it’s… Complicated. I think Mikey or Luci took it after I threatened to use it on them.” 

Gabe was down on his knees, his back turned to Dean, and distracted. Dean slowly crept forward, carefully taking the blade out of his pocket. “Gabe?” 

“Yeah?” He asked without ever looking up. 

“Here’s your blade.” 

Gabe’s head snapped up and his eyes grew wide. “Where did you find it?!” 

Dean flipped the blade so the handle was facing Gabe. “In the vending machine. It was a surprise. I wasn’t expecting to find a blade with my M&M’s.” 

Gabe let out a laugh as he took his blade back. “Thank you, Dean-O!” Gabe pushed himself onto his feet and then his eyes grew wide. “Oh shit!” 

“What?” Dean’s heart started to pick up. Fearful that somehow, Gabe had figured out that he thought about stabbing him. 

“Oh my god!” Gabe cried, his hand flying to his hair. 

“What?” Dean asked again, even more on edge. 

“I can’t believe I’m just now getting this idea!” Gabe shouted instead of answering Dean. 

“What?! Just tell me what?!” Dean was on the verge of freaking the fuck out. 

Gabe looked Dean right in the eyes. “I just figured out how to get you out of here in one piece!” 

Dean felt a flutter in his chest. He tried not to hope, but damn it, he felt a spark of hope alighting his soul. “How?”

“Dean!” Gabe gasped. “I have to kill you!” 

Notes:

Last one for now lol

Chapter 13: Stabbing Time

AN: Heyyyyy guys! It's your boy, RNF here. I sometimes forget to include tags. Like so bad at it. Like, I do my best, but I so messed up this time. I added them now, but I'm going to go ahead and tell you guys here now, those who had already been reading along. There is a temporary death, but it's like very temporary. Just keep that in mind while reading this chapter. Thank you guys, 💙 (And sorry again)

 

 

“That’s not one piece!” Cas roared. 

Gabe held up his hands. “It’s still our best shot!” 

They were in the lobby, telling Cas about Gabe’s plan. It was not going well. Dean walked over to the blue plastic chair on wobbly legs. “I just got to sit down.” 

It wasn’t a bad plan, but damn, it made Dean dizzy just thinking about it. 

“Cassie, just listen to me. We–” 

“I’m not listening to this insane plan! Gabriel! You want to kill my true mate!” Cas shouted and Dean was still getting used to Cas showing emotion. Tonight’s feature was rage. 

Gabe flicked his wrist and there was tape on Cas’s mouth. It looked just like regular duct tape, but no matter how hard Cas pulled at it, he couldn’t get it off. 

“There, better.” Gabe smiled and Cas narrowed his eyes at him. “Listen, when we tried to get humans out of here before, their souls were always still attached to their bodies. We’ve never tried to take a dead body out before. It could work. Maybe without a soul inside it, it won’t get all fucked up on the other side.” 

Cas pointed at his mouth and Gabe snapped his fingers. Cas huffed once his was tape free. “You can’t know that taking a soulless body out won’t result in the same thing.” Cas started ticking off his list with his fingers. “You don’t know if it won’t explode, or turn inside out, or the flesh won’t melt off the bone, or it won’t end up being contorted, or–” 

“Cas, please stop…” Dean pleaded with his head in his hand. “You’re gonna make me second-guess this.” 

“Good! You should!” Cas sternly told him. “And say his soulless body stays intact?! No one has ever resurrected a human before. Did he tell you that, Dean? Did he tell you that from the moment we found humankind, no angel has attempted to put a soul back into its body?” 

Gabe shrugged. “How hard could it be? Just stuff it back in there.” 

“Just stuff it back?!” Cas threw up his hands in the air. “What if you don’t do it right? What if Dean isn’t Dean anymore? What if you fuck up the process?!” 

“Of course it still would be Dean! How could it not be?” Gabe argued. 

“Guys.” Dean spoke up. He was starting to get sick of them talking about him like he wasn’t in the same room. “This is my choice.”

“Like hell it is!” Cas snapped. “As your true mate–” 

“Hold your damn horses!” Dean shouted back. He was on his feet and jabbing a finger into Cas’s chest. “I don’t know how you angels do things, but on earth, my dad drilled something in my head. Not be some alpha’s little bitch, true mate or not. We can talk about this, but you’re not going to pull that alpha card crap on me!” 

Cas turned his head away and huffed. The angel sure as hell huffed a lot when he was upset. “I… I’m worried.” 

“I know.” Gabe softly spoke as he walked closer to them. “But I have it all planned out. I’ll kill Dean, and we’ll take his body out of here. If it works, I’ll hop into heaven, snatch his soul, and put it back. If it doesn’t work, at least Dean won’t be suffering. We’ll get his body back here and we’ll find a way to fix it.” 

“And what if you can’t?” Cas said, trying his best not to growl. “What if it’s beyond repair?” 

“It’s a risk we’ll have to take.” Dean told him and Cas pressed his lips into a thin line. “If it doesn’t work, I’ll be in Heaven. They’ll have to let you be with me, right? You’re my true mate.” 

Cas huffed and shook his head. “I hate this idea so much.” 

“Cas.” Dean gently spoke, placing his hand on the alpha’s shoulder. “This might be my only chance to see my family. I have to take it. If it works, is that it for us? Would you stay here and forget about me?” 

Cas’s body slumped. “Of course not.” 

Dean’s hand dropped from Cas’s shoulder. He slipped his hand into Cas’s and squeezed it. “Look, I know this is my choice and all… I won’t go through with this if we’re not on the same page, but… Please?” 

Dean watched a clash of emotions dance through Cas’s blue eyes. He held his breath, waiting for what he was sure was his only chance vanishing before his eyes. “Okay.” Cas gulped. “If you’re sure about this… If this is something you want to try, you have my support.” 

Dean leaned forward, pressing their lips together. Just briefly before pulling away. “Thank you.” 

“Great!” Gabe beamed with the blade in his hand. “It’s stabbing time.” 

“Wait!” Dean blurted. “There’s something I have to do first.” 

Dean let go of Cas’s hand and walked over to Gabe. He whispered in the omega’s ear and the other omega nodded his head. Then, he rolled up his sleeve and exposed his arm. With one quick motion, Gabe sliced down his arm. 

“Hey!” Cas shouted. 

But before he could take a step forward, Gabe snapped his fingers and Dean had what he needed. He turned back to Cas, arm healed and all. Dean walked over to him, showing off his gift to the alpha. A vial of his blood on a black cord. Cas’s eyes shone when he saw it. 

“I know it’s not grace, but it’s my life force.” Dean told him, slipping it over Cas’s neck. The vial rested over his heart. Dean smiled at him, holding the grace Cas had gifted him. “Now, when we’re not physically together, we’ll still carry a piece of each other.” 

“Dean…” Cas’s voice wobbled. 

Dean grabbed the alpha by the shoulders and brought their lips together. Their kiss wasn’t soft or quick this time. Cas wrapped his arms around Dean’s waist and pulled him closer as he deepened their kiss. For a moment, everything faded. The motel, Gabe, and their plan. It was just him and Cas. 

“We get it! You guys are cute together!” Gabe interrupted them. When they looked over, he was waggling the blade. “But we have a human to return home.” 

“Right.” Dean gulped. It wasn’t like he wasn’t on board with this. He was, but he was nervous. And he dared anyone to blame him. 

Dean pulled away from Cas and held his hands behind his head. Leaving his body exposed for Gabe. He watched Gabe ready himself, saw the slight movement in his shoulder. Gabe thrust the blade forward and Dean jumped out of the way. In his world, he did not let out the world’s highest-pitched scream. 

“Dude!” Gabe shrugged at him. “What the crap?” 

“Don’t pressure him.” Cas scolded. “He’s allowed to change his mind.” 

“No!” Dean gasped, shaking his head. “It’s not that. I wanna do this.” 

“Okay, from the top.” Gabe said. 

Dean nodded his head. He practically jumped in a circle and rolled each shoulder to pump himself up for this. “Okay, I’m ready.” 

Dean returned to his position, hands behind his head. He tried to breathe through it as he saw Gabe rear his arm back. Then the other omega went in for the stab, and son of a bitch, Dean got the hell out of the way. 

Gabe sighed. “Dean, if you don’t want to do this. You don’t have to. It was just an idea. Hell, I’ll be more than happy to have you stick around. I’m gonna miss the shit out of you if you do leave.” 

“We’re more than happy to keep you here.” Cas quickly agreed. 

“No, no. For real guys.” Dean swung his hands out. “I wanna do this. It’s a great plan and I think it’s worth the risk.” 

Gabe raised a brow. “Are you sure? Because you’re not being still.” 

“Well, you try standing in one place when there’s a damn blade heading for your gut.” Dean whined. He ran his hand through his hair and groaned. “Cas, you gotta hold me still, man.” 

“What?!” Cas squeaked. He looked at Dean like he had lost his damn mind.

“Please?” Dean begged. He was bouncing on the balls of his feet. Wanting to get stabbed and actually going through it was wrecking his body with adrenaline. “I wanna go through with this, but I’m not going to hold still. My fucking instincts are gonna to kick in, and I’m going to move. I need you to do me a solid, dude. Please?” 

“Okay, Dean.” Cas softly said. Dean’s heart pounded as he listened to Cas step behind him. His stomach swirled when Cas pulled his arms back and held them in place. “Ready?” 

“Yeah.” Dean answered as every nerve in his body freaked the fuck out. “I’m ready.” 

“Let’s do this.” Gabe said. 

He took a quick step forward and shoved his blade deep in Dean’s gut. He let out a sharp gasp, unable to scream. It burned like a mother fucker, but his body felt like it was on fire when Gabe twisted the blade. He roughly jerked it out of Dean’s gut. 

Immediately, Dean could feel his breathing changing. They came out in short, strangled gasps, and he felt warm blood seeping from his body. He felt woozy and it only got worse when Cas carefully brought them to the floor. Dean could see the tears running down Cas’s cheeks. He wanted to reach out and touch him. He wasn’t sure how he did it. He couldn’t feel anything but the fire that burned him alive, but he did it. He reached out and cupped the side of Cas’s face. 

Cas held his hand in plae and Dean was grateful for it. He wasn’t sure he’d have the strength on his own. 

“It’s g-gonna be o-o-okay…” Dean’s voice came out strangled. “W-we won’t be a-apart for long.” 

Cas tried to smile, but it was wobbly. More tears fell as he nodded his head. “We’ll be back together before we know it.” He sobbed. 

Cas shifted, coming to lie next to Dean. He held him as Dean felt his breath become more and more shallow. He fought off waves of nausea as the corners of his vision slowly grew black. He couldn’t see Gabe, but he could tell the omega was lying on his other side. He could smell his scent right next to him. 

“Dean?” Gabe asked. 

“Yeah?” Dean gasped. It was getting harder to talk. 

“When you get to Heaven, tell Rachel she owes me twenty bucks.” 

Dean barked out a laugh and it hurt like hell. 

He lay there as he felt himself slipping away. Cas tried to comfort him by running his fingers through his sweaty hair. It didn’t feel so bad, slipping away. It was nice getting away from the pain. And hell, even if Dean knew he wouldn’t stay dead, it was still weird dying. Dean didn’t see this coming at all. He had fought so hard to stay alive there in the beginning and now he had willingly let himself be killed. But hell, if he had to go, even if it was temporary, at least he died surrounded by his–

🍭🍨🍩

Dean looked around, confused as all get out. He was in a waiting room. The world’s whitest waiting room. Seriously, the floors were white, the walls were white, and so was the ceiling. The windows behind him were so bright with light, he couldn’t see what was on the outside. The only thing not white was the bluish-gray chairs they were in. There were other people here, too. Talking and laughing with each other as they held a note card in their hand. Dean looked down and found a note card in his hand. The number forty was written on it and it finally clicked where he was. He was in Heaven because Gabe killed him. He wondered how long he’d have to wait before Gabe came back for him. 

“Hey there.” A woman with a bright smile greeted him. “Just got here, huh?” 

“Yeah.” Dean replied. Still trying to wrap his mind around the fact that Heaven was a real place. He knew Cas said it was, but hearing it and seeing it were two different things. 

“The name’s Layla. What’s yours?” 

“Dean–” 

Dean gasped for air while his eyes darted around. It was night, in some woods he didn’t recognize. The next thing he knew, he was being helped to his feet by Cas and Gabe. 

“Are you okay?” Cas asked, not bothering to mask the panic in his voice. 

“How do you feel?” Gabe asked. Much calmer than his younger brother. 

“Fine?” Dean asked, still trying to get reoriented with everything that just happened. “Where are we?” 

“White Russia.” Cas replied like that was a normal reply. 

“We needed a secluded place to test this out.” Gabe explained. 

Dean looked around, listening to the crickets. He could hardly believe what they were saying. He heard the words, but his brain refused to believe them. “It worked?” 

“Like I knew it would.” Gabe winked. 

Dean huffed out a laugh. “Damn, that was fast. I couldn’t have been dead but for twenty seconds.” 

“Actually, it was thirty minutes.” Cas said and Dean’s brows shot up. 

“What?” 

“What my brother means is, Heaven’s time runs differently.” Gabe stepped in. “We left you dead for half an hour to make sure your body didn’t do anything whacky.” 

“And it didn’t?” Dean asked as he patted himself down, but he couldn’t feel anything different. 

“Nope! It worked.” Gabe smiled from ear to ear. 

“It worked.” Dean parroted. 

“It worked.” Cas answered with a smile of his own. 

Dean let out a laugh. “It worked! It fucking worked!” 

They laughed as Dean high-fived Gabe and hugged Cas as tightly as he could. When Gabe joined in the hug, they hopped up and down together. 

“It worked!” Dean laughed like a crazy person. After half a year, he was back in his world. He could see his family again. “It worked! It worked! It fuckin’ worked!” Dean raised a brow when Cas and Gabe pulled away, shock on their faces. “What?” 

“Oh shit!” Gabe hissed. 

“What–” But then he felt it. Dean slowly brought his fingers between his nose and mouth and pressed down. When he brought them back, they shone red. “Oh… That’s not good.” 

“Gabriel! Do something!” Cas cried, but Dean was already on his knees. Vomiting up blood at an alarming rate. 

Gabe fell to his knees and pressed his fingers on Dean’s forehead. Dean gasped when the blood stopped spewing. “How do you feel?” 

“Better–” Was all Dean could get out before he was upchucking blood again. 

“Dean!” Cas shouted.

The next thing Dean knew, he had two angels on either side of him. He could feel their grace thrumming through his body, trying to repair him. He could also feel the inside of his body falling apart faster than they could heal him. 

Notes:

Well, they gave it their best shot

Chapter 14: And if it Doesn't Work the First Time...

Castiel watched helplessly as his true mate’s body broke down before his very eyes. Despite the grace he and Gabriel poured into him, it wasn’t enough. Dean wasn’t responsive anymore. His body shook violently, his eyes rolled back into his skull. Soon, his body would bust open, and his guts would spill out. Just like those before him. Castiel wanted to hate himself for ever going along with this, but he was filled with too much terror to do so.  

“We have to get him back!” Gabriel shouted and they were back in the lobby of Mystery Spot Inn. 

Dean was still now and Castiel could see his green eyes, but they were glazed over. His bloodied mouth hung open. His ears and nose had blood leaking out of them, and Castiel hated himself. He knew this wouldn’t work. Deep in his gut, he knew it wouldn’t, but he went along with it. 

“Malachi!” Gabriel shouted. “Get you and your crews' asses out here! I need all hands on deck!” 

They appeared, seeming annoyed at first until they saw Dean. 

“What happened?!” Samandriel cried. 

“All of you! Help us heal him!” Gabriel demanded and they all dropped to their knees, pressing their hands on them. 

Castiel poured all the healing grace he could, along with others. He felt his heart crumbling. This was all his fault. He allowed Dean to proceed with this. He didn’t care if Dean said they could just live out in Heaven, but he still caused the man he loved his life. 

Minutes passed, but Dean’s eyes were still glazed over and he was hardly breathing. Castiel could barely see his chest rising up and then down. 

He would be sick. This wasn’t the first time they tried to bring a human back when taking them out went horribly wrong. It never worked; they could never put their bodies back together. They got Dean here quicker than the others, but it was already too late. Castiel felt it in his bones and he wanted to scream and sob, but he focused his energy on trying to put Dean back together. 

They all flinched back when Dean sucked in air. He choked a little before gasping, but breathing. Dean looked around at everyone who stared down at him in disbelief. 

“Let’s not try that again.” Dean said. Castiel knew it was meant to be a joke, but he wasn’t in a laughing mood. 

“Duh!” Gabriel barked out a laugh, but there were tears in his eyes. 

Castiel grabbed Dean and pulled him up until the omega’s head was resting on his chest. He held Dean like he could protect him from everything that had just happened. He ran his hand through Dean’s hair, cleaning up the blood from his face as he did so. “We’ll try it again over my dead body.” 

“Sorry Dean…” Gabriel said remorsefully. “This was my stupid idea.” 

“It’s fine.” Dean said, but it wasn’t fine because his voice was hoarse. “It was worth a shot.” 

“You’re one strong human. I’ll give you that.” Gabriel let out a nervous chuckle before the frown on his face returned. “I just don’t know what went wrong. It should have worked.” 

“It didn’t work because it never works!” Castiel snapped. 

“But his body did fine without his soul!” Gabriel whined. “There’s something about the soul returning. If I can just figure out what causes the body to break down when the soul’s back in, then–” 

“No.” Castiel growled, pulling Dean even closer. Ignoring the gossip of the other angels. “We’re not taking any more risks!” 

“Guys, please stop fighting.” Dean’s soft voice cut through the tension. He sounded so tired. “It’s not Gabe’s fault. It’s not your fault, Cas. I knew the risk and I still took it.” He weakly shrugged. “At least we know it doesn’t work now.” 

“You need rest.” Castiel said and they were in Dean’s bed, under the blankets. 

Castiel made sure to remove Dean’s boots, socks, and jeans because he had heard him talk about how he didn’t like sleeping with them on. He left everything else on the omega. Castiel removed his shoes. Without Dean’s boots on, he imagined the omega would be uncomfortable if his shoes dug into his feet. 

“You’re overly protective, you know that?” Dean chuckled. 

“And you’re completely reckless.” Castiel counter. 

“Yeah, but you still like me.” 

Castiel more than “liked” Dean. He was absolutely in love with him. He wouldn’t tell Dean that, not now. Not after everything he just went through. Castiel wouldn’t tell Dean at all unless the omega felt the same way for him. If Dean could ever love Castiel back. 

“That I do.” He said instead. 

It didn’t take Dean long to fall asleep in his arms. Castiel didn’t sleep, never had the need to, but he liked this. He could hold Dean all night long; it would make him very happy to do so. It meant Castiel knew Dean was safe in his arms. 

🍭🍨🍩

Castiel stood in front of Dean’s door. It had been three days since the indecent. Everyone was worried about him, but Dean kept insisting he was fine. He just needed some time to process it all. Castiel only came by to drop off food and drinks and hoped Dean was taking care of himself. This was the first time that Dean had called out for him. He wanted to speak to Castiel about something. 

He wasn’t sure if Dean wanted to talk about all that had happened to him in the attempt to bring him back to his dimension. Or if he wanted to talk about the reality that he’d never see his family again. 

Or if this was about them. 

Castiel had no idea where they stood. They held hands, something he knew was important to humans. They kissed and Dean even gave him a vial of his blood. Castiel held onto it now. He could feel Dean. It was both worrying and comforting at the same time. He could feel Dean was sad, but oddly okay at the same time. What he couldn’t feel was the way Dean felt for him. 

The actions of recently told him they were romantically involved, but their connection wasn’t fully developed. Castiel could only slightly feel what Dean was feeling when they were apart. That told him they still stood as friends.

It shouldn’t matter, Castiel tried telling himself. If they only ever remained friends, he’d be happy because at least he had Dean in his life. 

But he’d be lying if he said he wasn’t a little selfish. He had gotten a taste of what they could be and he feared going back to just friends. 

In the end, he would accept his role in Dean’s life, no matter what. 

Castiel knocked on the door and Dean quickly answered. He felt a flutter in his chest when Dean gave him a big, warm smile. But he was unsure how to go forward. Did he kiss Dean? Was he allowed to do that again? Or should he just go in for a hug? 

Dean answered for him when he patted him on the bicep. “That’s for coming, man.” 

“Of course. It’s always a pleasure to see you.” Castiel replied. Stepping into the room without any physical contact. 

“Soooo…” Dean said as he closed the door. He jogged passed Castiel and stretched out his arms. “What do you think?” 

Castiel took in the room. Dean had hung up all the posters he had been gifted. One above his table, one hung on the wall near the TV. Two were on the wall to the right, and one above the bed’s headboard. Samandriel had given Dean a potted plant. He thought a little green would do the human some good. Dean placed it on the dresser, but it didn’t look like it was doing so well. He knew Muriel gifted Dean a framed picture that read, live, laugh, love, which was apparently a huge thing when it came to humans, but Castiel didn’t see it. The shiny red firetruck toy Conrad gave Dean was next to the plotted plant. The sword that Malachi had gifted Dean was hung below the two posters to the right. 

Then there was Gabriel’s gift. His brother had gifted Dean a plastic blow-up doll whose intended purpose was to have sex with. Castiel didn’t know how anyone could have sex with something like that, it looked uncomfortable to him. Still, Gabriel gifted it to Dean and told him, “just in case he ever got lonely”. Castiel didn’t understand that either. He knew Dean missed his family, but he had them. He didn’t know how a sex doll would make things better. 

Still, Dean had blown it up and had it sitting on the couch. There were glasses on it, with eyeballs attached to springs. The eyeballs hung down and it looked morbid. Castiel didn’t know where Dean had gotten them, but he must like morbid things like that. 

“I like what you have done with the place.” Castiel told him, earning him a huge smile. 

“Thanks! I figured if I’m gonna be here forever, I might as well make it feel like home.” Dean looked around with a fond smile on his face that didn’t quite reach his eyes. “It’s really starting to feel like my place.” 

Castiel wanted to say something to make it all better, but he didn’t know what to say. So he just stood there, watching Dean. 

“Oh! Is it possible for you to help bring my plant back from the brink of death?” Dean gestured to the plant. “I watered it, but I’m not sure what I’m doing wrong.” 

“Of course, Dean.” Castiel walked over. He placed his fingers onto the soil and poured just a little bit of his grace into it. Dean gasped as he saw the plant return to its full glory. 

“Dude, that’s cool as hell!” 

Castiel hung his head down. He tried not to be too prideful, but his chest was puffing up with pride. He wasn’t sure what it would be like to have a human for a true mate, but no angel mate would be this impressed by something that was, for Castiel, so simple. Even his ex-partner wasn’t impressed with him, and she was far from human or angelic. 

“You’re welcome, Dean.” 

“So…” Dean grinned at him. There was mischief lighting his eyes. “Wanna go into the back room and watch more Western movies with me?” 

“Do I have to dress up like a cowboy again?” 

Dean crossed his arms and cocked a brow. “Dude, that’s the only way to watch Western movies.” 

Castiel huffed out a laugh. “Then yes. I would love that.” 

Four months later… 

Here was something everyone should know about Gabriel. He wasn’t one to give up so easily. So, his first plan went to shit, and he almost killed Dean? They managed to save him. He was alright, but Gabriel couldn’t let go of his obsession that he could get Dean out of here in one piece. So, during his free time, Gabriel cracked his knuckles and got to work. 

He would find a way to make a damn exit that wouldn’t destroy Dean’s body on his way out. He couldn’t let Castiel catch him, though. He was damn lucky he didn’t end up with an angel blade in his chest after his first plan went sideways. 

So, Gabriel took this outside, in the woods behind the motel. He stared proudly at his little outhouse. It had taken a few tries to find the right placement. The first time he tried, Gabriel opened the door and got hit by a car. The highway was not the greatest place for an exit. The second time, he ended up appearing in the middle of a Taco Bell and freaked out all the humans. The third time, Gabriel was half stuck in a brick wall. But this time, he was sure he’d fixed all the little bugs. Well, at least for him. Dean couldn’t go through it without seriously fucking up his body. 

But one step at a time. 

Gabriel opened the outhouse, stepped into it, and bam! He was in Dean’s apartment. 

“Yes!” Gabriel shouted, throwing his fist into the air. 

Step one completed, now time for the hard part. Figuring out how to get Dean through without his weak human body tearing apart between the fabric of realities. 

Gabriel flapped his wings, returning to Mystry Spot Inn, but he wasn’t alone. Michael was waiting for him and Gabriel groaned. He knew this was coming, but he had hope it would take his brother a little longer to find out. 

“Gabriel.” Mikey greeted him with that way too serious tone. 

“Mikey!” Gabriel snapped his fingers; he needed a sucker for this talk. “What can I do for you?” 

“You took a soul from Heaven. What were you thinking?” 

“What?” He asked as he tore off the paper of his sucker. 

“Do you even know what you have done?” Mikey’s tone was tighter than ever. “You took a soul from Heaven! You put a soul back into its body! It’s never been heard of! It’s wrong on so many levels. I know you and Lucifer like to be reckless, but this has gone too far.” 

Gabriel shrugged at Mikey. “What in the beanbag chair does it matter?!” He asked around his sucker. “I killed him! I can bring him back to life if I wanna!” 

“No you can’t.” Mikey growled. “I need to return Dean’s soul back to Heaven. Where it belongs.” 

Gabriel folded his arms and raised a brow. “And break Cassie’s heart? Have you ever seen our brother so happy before?” 

“I have not been observing our brother’s happiness.” 

“Well, it’s true.” Gabriel took out his sucker so he could point it at Mikey. “And if you reap Dean’s soul, he’ll never forgive you.” 

Mikey sighed. “Fine.” He tightly growled through a clenched jaw. “But don’t do this again. I won’t be so understanding next time.” 

“Well, thanks for that. Before you go though, I need your help.” Gabriel said and Michael tilted his head. “I might actually need yours, Luci’s, and maybe even our mother’s help. I need help creating an exit that won’t kill Dean.” 

“Oh…” Mikey said. “I thought he was here against his will because Castiel refused to let him go.”

“What?! Dude! No!” 

“I shall speak to our mother then.” With that Mikey was gone and Gabriel could wipe the sweat off his forehead. 

He didn’t get smited and Dean got to keep his soul. 

Gabriel rocked at keeping almost everything intact. 

Notes:

I want to say sorry to you all. It's been a busy day and it's still busy. I'll be surprised if I can throw another chapter at you today. Lol so until then, I hope you like this little breather chapter

Chapter 15: The Place that Doesn't Exist but Does

Sam felt like an insane person; he might be insane. Jess and his friends, even his professors, thought he was crazy. Not like they said it out loud, but Sam could tell they thought it. If he weren’t in his shoes, he’d think he was crazy, too. Two bad dreams, and he was taking off from school, and caught a red flight back home. It had only been three days, but Sam couldn’t ignore the dreams and the feeling he had. 

He talked to his mom over the phone. He could tell she was worried about Dean, but she wasn’t being honest with him. There was something more she wasn’t telling him. She was leaving him in the dark, so it was on his shoulders to find his brother before it was too late. 

Mystery Spot Inn may not be a real place, but Sam knew the short guy and the man in the tan coat were real. Dream be damned, somehow they were real, and they had his brother. 

And they would kill Dean if Sam didn’t find him on time. 

So now, he was back in Lawrence, and he had started to follow Dean’s trail. He began at Dean’s apartment. He had to think like Dean. What he knew was that Dean planned on driving all the way to him. He knew his brother had, at some point, stopped to wash his car early in the trip. Then that was it; he seemingly vanished into thin air. 

Sam typed in his address back in Cali into his phone from the Dean’s parking lot. He followed the directions until he found a self-serve car wash. He doubted anyone there today would’ve been there then. Still, Sam tried. He talked to people, showed them a photo of Dean, but no one had seen him. 

Sam stopped at every diner he came across. One after the other, he left empty-handed. He kept trying; he had to. No matter how helpless it felt. 

“Yeah,” the alpha drawled, thick Cajun accent rollin’ off his tongue. “Fella was in here ‘bout three days back.”

Sam’s breath caught in his throat. He couldn’t believe his luck. This was the last diner before the highway Dean would’ve taken.

“I remember him clear as day.” The alpha chuckled, low and easy. “Hell, I even took an early break just to sit up front, get me a good look. Boy was real easy on the eyes.”

Sam bit down a growl and tried to squash the irrational feeling that this guy had something to do with Dean’s disappearance. “Did you see anyone else looking at him?” 

The alpha shrugged. “Sure. He’s a fine-lookin’ omega, is he not? Turned plenty o’ heads.” 

“Were two of those heads a short man with light brown hair that came up to right about here?” Sam gestured to his own head. “And a taller man in a tan coat with dark, messy hair?” 

“Nah, can’t say I recall seein’ fellas like that.” 

“Did anyone follow him out?” Sam asked, feeling his only lead seeping through his fingers. 

“No, he walked out solo. Wish I had more for ya, brother, but that’s all I got.”

Sam swallowed down his disappointment and nodded his head. “Thanks anyway.” 

Sam walked out and back into his car. He started up his Google Maps again and took off onto the highway. He wasn’t sure how long he had driven. He kept his eyes open, looking for any sign of Dean. His car, a discarded coat, anything. But as he got near the exit, something about it felt off. Like it was calling to him. Sam couldn’t explain why; he just knew Dean took that exit. 

Sam flipped on his blinker and took it as well. 

It looked like any other town. There was a Taco Bell to the right, stores to the left of him, and a Walmart and Best Buy in front of him. Sam took to the right. He entered Taco Bell, a gas station, a bank, and a Starbucks, but Dean hadn’t been that way. 

Sam hit every store from Best Buy to PetCo, to GameStop, and even a beauty supply shop, but no one had recognized him. 

Sam decided to hit the stores he had seen left of the exit, but then he was hit with a familiarity he couldn’t place. He drove past the stores, heading down a road he’d never seen before. He had never laid eyes on this place, but a sense of knowing itched his brain. 

Sam had no choice but to admit it; he had lost it. 

He had no clue where he was going, but it was like his body was on autopilot. It knew where it was going. Sam was riding shotgun while some force he couldn’t see drove him to where he needed to be. 

He kept driving until he was out of the downtown area and passed neighborhoods scattered here and there. He drove until he found himself on some back road. Unease filled his stomach, and the sense of familiarity became so strong, he almost couldn’t handle it. His brain was at war, one side telling him he had never been here while the other screamed he had. His heart picked up speed, instincts telling him that he needed to keep his eyes open. That he would find what he was looking for.

Sam was a freak, a freak who was losing his damn mind. 

He rounded bend after bend, but there was going to be nothing but trees, other cars, and another bend to round. 

He huffed out a sigh and told himself he’d turn around as soon as he could. 

Then he rounded another bend and slammed on his brakes. 

Sam could hardly breathe. He just stared at the big open field on the right. His arms shook; he felt like his nerves were being flayed alive. He probably would have sat there, continuing to stare stupidly at nothing, if the car behind him hadn’t slammed on its horn. Sam pulled into the open field so he wasn’t holding up any traffic. When he got out of his car, the world swayed a little. He felt dizzy with disbelief. 

This was it. 

This was where Mystery Spot Inn was. Sam could see it all now. Exactly where the neon sign stood. The parking lot, the motel, it was all here, but it wasn’t. Sam didn’t know how to explain it, but somehow he was standing in the same place Dean was being held. It was just an empty field, but it was here. Sam just how to figure out how to make it show up. 

“You really have lost your mind.” He groaned. “Okay.” He leaned on the car and focused. He just needed to focus as hard as he could, and the place would appear. Yeah, he lost his sanity, but that was okay. Somehow, he knew it was here. “Come on… Show yourself.” 

Notes:

Lol, soooo I know it's short, but I didn't want to add a Dean or Cas pov because I thought it was a good stand-alone chapter with Sam's POV

(Also I did have time to do another chapter today lol)

Chapter 16: Picnics, Raining Stars, and Birth Control Wardings

“Sooooooo, have you hit that ass yet?” Gabriel asked, tasteless as ever. Even though it was his shift off, he still chose to lean on the counter, drooling over a porn magazine and pestering Castiel. 

“That’s none of your business.” Castiel said, doing his best to ignore his brother and check Ishim in. Behind him, Anna and her friend, Faith, giggled amongst each other as they waited to be checked in as well. 

“So, that’s a no.” Gabriel snorted. 

“Hand me a key.” Castiel told him, but his brother ignored him. Castiel remained professional and got the key himself. He slid it over to Ishim. “Please, enjoy your stay.” 

Ishim nodded, walked away, and Anna and Faith stepped forward. 

“Can we have three rooms in one? One spa room, one nightclub, and a common room where we can hang out together?” Anna asked. 

Gabriel snapped his fingers. “Done! You’ll want room seven.” 

“Thank you, Gabriel.” Faith told him. 

They both put down their choice of payment, splitting the bill. Anna paid with tokens from ancient Greece, something Castiel hadn’t seen in centuries. Faith chose to pay with sigils he hadn’t seen before. Castiel slid them a form and turned to Gabriel, showing off the sigils. “What would be an acceptable change for this?” 

Gabriel hummed, taking in the scrolls. Then he leaned over so he could see Faith better. “Would you take six tears from a giant?” 

“Sure.” She answered before turning her attention back to the form. 

Castiel grabbed their room key, but when he turned around, Gabriel was in his face. “Dude, it’s been over ten months now. You gotta give your true mate that knot.” 

“You haven’t had sex with your true mate yet?!” Anna squeaked. 

“Guys, can we please not talk about my…” Castiel let out a sigh. “It’s no one’s business but mine and Dean’s.” 

“But Castiel! It’s been almost a year!” Anna cried.

Castiel placed their key down and took the form. “Please enjoy your stay at Mystery Spot Inn.” Anna’s mouth twisted; she looked like she had more to say, but Castiel raised a brow. He would not let them turn Dean into gossip. 

He felt a little better once they were gone. Of course, his relief was short-lived. 

“What is the hold up?” Gabriel asked, shoving himself up so he was sitting on the counter. “You guys kissed, you gave each other your essences, and you do that weird hand-holding thing. Why haven’t you two gotten down and dirty?” 

“Because…” Castiel started before the words quickly died on the tip of his tongue. He decided it’d be best to be honest with his brother, or he wouldn’t find peace. “I don’t know where Dean and I stand.” 

Gabriel raised a brow. “Hoooooooooow?” 

Castiel hung his head and shrugged. “We kissed, that one night. The night you killed him, but we haven’t kissed since. So I thought we were still friends, but then Dean does all these little things that feel like courting. He’ll invite me to watch movies and eat meals alone together. He’ll hold my hand and cuddle me, but I’m still lost. I don’t know what it all means.” 

“You’re so dim!” Gabriel rolled his eyes. “Dean’s into you, dumbass!” 

Castiel’s brows furrowed. “How can you tell?” 

“It’s what the humans call dating.” Gabriel said, then huffed when Castiel’s face twisted in confusion. “It’s like courting, but not. So don’t call it that, humans don’t like that.” 

“Okay.” Castiel agreed, even if he didn’t fully understand.

“Look.” Gabriel waggled a finger in his face. “You’re not getting any action because Dean’s putting in all the effort. What you need to do is ask him out on a date. Show him you’re just as interested in him as he’s into you.” 

“Okay.” Castiel nodded. “I can do that… So I take him to watch a film and grab food, right?” 

“No, you’ve messed this up so far. You can’t do something that basic.” Gabriel told him and Castiel felt a ping of fear. He had no idea he had been doing this wrong for so long. “What you need to do is take him out on a date that’ll blow his mind.” 

“Like what?” Castiel asked. 

“Duh!” Gabriel spun his wrist. “You’re an angel, he’s a human. So show him something a human has never seen before. I promise you, you’ll get in those pants in no time.” 

Castiel gasped. “I know what I need to do!” 

He hurried out from the counter and rushed over to the door. 

“Hey!” Gabriel shouted. “My break doesn’t end for another six days and seventeen hours!” 

But Castiel was already out the door. His heart pounded in his chest and somehow, his palms were sweaty. Strange, they’ve never done that before. To say he was nervous would be an understatement. Angels courted one another. They gave gifts and if those gifts were well received, they’d show off their wings. Castiel hadn’t shown off his wings to Dean, even when the omega seemed to enjoy his gifts. He wasn’t sure it was appropriate because they were just friends, and then they kissed, and Castiel never found the right time. After showing off their wings, if their intended partner were impressed, they’d dance for them. Somehow, Castiel didn’t think Dean would enjoy it or understand it. Then, if the dance were successful, they’d claim each other. That was how his mother won over his father, but this was something completely out of Castiel’s understanding.

Dating… 

He hoped he did it right.  

Castiel strolled over to Dean’s door and knocked on it before he lost his nerve. 

But he was losing it within the seconds it took Dean to answer. 

“Hey, man. What’s up?” Dean greeted him with a smile. 

“I’d like to take you on a date.” Castiel blurted, so he didn’t back out of this. “Would you do me the honor of being my date?” 

Dean’s brows shot up and he huffed out a laugh. Castiel was sure he was about to be rejected. 

“Okay, sure. When?” Dean asked and Castiel wasn’t expecting him to ask that. The alpha shuffled on his feet, unsure how to answer. Gabriel didn’t warn him that he needed to have a later time prepared. “Oooooh, you meant now?” 

“Ummm… Only if it’s okay with you?” 

“Give me like, ten minutes and I’ll be right out.” Dean said and he looked happy, so Castiel thought maybe he wasn’t totally ruining this. 

Castiel paced around, trying to get his nerves under control. He hadn’t been this nervous since he asked his last partner to be his mate. He was even more nervous about this, and he wasn’t rejected like he was back then. Castiel was scared, but Dean wasn’t in trouble. He wasn’t dying, but Castiel was terrified. He didn’t understand why. 

Before he knew it, Dean stepped out of his room. He had styled his hair and put on different clothes than those he wore when he answered the door. Instead of his t-shirt and blue over shirt, Dean was wearing a dark green Henley (or at least, Castiel thought that was what Dean had called it before). And he had traded in for jeans that didn’t have holes in them. Castiel didn’t understand the reason for the change, but he thought Dean looked good. Especially with Castiel’s grace resting over his heart. 

“Sooooo?” Dean asked and while he smiled, Castiel could feel that he felt nervous. “You keep staring at me? Do I uh, look stupid or somethin’?” 

“No!” Castiel quickly assured. “You’re the most beautiful omega ever.” 

A blush broke across Dean’s cheeks and he quickly ducked his head. “Cas, you can’t just say things like that.” 

“Did a cross a human line?” He asked, but that only made Dean laugh. 

He just shook his head with a wide smile. “You’re looking mighty handsome yourself.” He held out his hand and Castiel grabbed it. “So, where are ya takin’ me?” 

“It’s a surprise.” Castiel replied as they walked towards the lobby. 

“Did you prob my mind again?” Dean asked. “Because if you saw the Zoro mask thing, that’s kind of at least a tenth date thing! And I swear I’m not a freak! There’s a good reason why it has to be a Zoro mask!” 

“I didn’t “prob” your mind.” Castiel assured. “I came up with this surprise on my own.” 

“Oh…” Dean let out a nervous chuckle. “Then can you forget I ever said Zoro mask?” 

“Done.” Castiel promised. He had no idea what a Zoro mask was and what it meant when it came to human mating rituals, but he’d let it go. Castiel held the door open for Dean and then led him towards the back room. 

“Have fun, you two.” Gabriel told them as he watched the little TV on the counter. “Make lots of pups.” 

Dean flipped him off while Castiel briefly poured his intentions into the room. When he was ready, he opened the door and let Dean step through first. He stepped in after him, and they were finally alone, in just the place Castiel wanted them. 

“Holy shiiiit!” Dean gasped as he took it all in. 

Castiel hoped Dean liked it. This had been one of his favorite places back in his home dimension. A grassy cliff that hovered above the beach. Even from this high up, Castiel could hear the waves crashing onto the shore. It used to relax him very much. He would lie here, and look up at the stars that shot across the sky and the two pale moons that shone up above. He made things a little different this time, not the physical place, but he added a blanket and a picnic basket filled with foods and drinks he knew Dean enjoyed. 

“Dude… This… This is so beautiful.” Dean said, wide eyes locked on the sky above. “Where are we?” 

“This is a replica of my favorite spot in my home dimension. “ Castiel answered with a small smile, tugging at his lips. He knew human stars did not fall like endless jewels as their stars did. He had a feeling Dean would be impressed, and he seemed to be right.  

“Whoa.” Dean said breathlessly. He slowly took a seat on the blanket, eyes still on the sky. “I could lie here, watching the stars all night.” 

“We could.” Castiel agreed as he took a seat next to Dean. He opened up the basket, pulling out a beer and Dean’s favorite sandwich. “Or you can eat this hot Italian sandwich with extra jalapenos. If you want to.” 

Dean chuckled as he took the food Castiel offered him. Castiel pulled out a beer and a smaller sandwich. He was getting used to eating ever since Dean came into his life. Still, he kept his portions smaller than the omega’s. 

“So?” Dean asked with a mouth full of sandwich. “If Lucifer is an archangel running Hell, does he have other angels working for him down there?” 

“Well, his mate is an angel. She’s the queen of Hell.” Castiel answered after a small sip of his beer. “But no, he has demons working for him.” 

“Demons?” Dean repeated, looking surprised for some reason. Castiel knew humans had myths about demons as well. “So… They’re not fallen angels? Twisted human souls turned monster?” 

Castiel shook his head. “No, demons are just their own thing. They stumbled upon us after our kind started Heaven and Hell. They wanted jobs. Michael tried to give them a chance, but… They weren’t… Kind to souls, but Lucifer liked what he saw, so he opened the gates of Hell to them. But only if they acknowledge him and Anael, his wife, as the rulers of Hell.” 

“Huh.” Dean said before taking a sip of his beer. Then his eyes grew wide. “Wait, you said that Heaven and Hell were set up before you and Gabriel were born.” 

“That’s correct.” 

“Then how could Lucifer and Michael start up Heaven and Hell? They’re your brothers.” Dean said and it took Castiel a second to understand his confusion. 

That was right, humans aged so much faster. 

Castiel chuckled. “They’re older. Much, much, much older.” 

Dean had that look written all over his face. The one he got when something made him feel overwhelmed, but instead of talking about it, he decided not to say anything about it. Castiel could understand. He was unsure about this as well. He wasn’t unsure about Dean, he loved Dean. It was just… Would Dean age just as quickly as humans always did, while Castiel remained the same for centuries to come? Or would Dean’s aging process slow down if they were to claim each other? And when Castiel thought about their possible future pups, being half human, half angel, it made him feel overwhelmed because how would that work? 

But Castiel kept telling himself to take it one step at a time. 

They would figure it out as they went. 

The only thing Castiel needed to focus on now was wooing Dean. 

As they ate, Dean decided to share his favorite places on earth and Castiel happily listened. Then he was asked about other favorite spots in his realm and Castiel told him them all. The rainbow stairs that led up to the clouds. His favorite swimming area on the island that hovered over the hot springs below. Castiel really liked that place. He could warm himself up in the natural springs and then fly up and cool off in the lake. Plus, it had a waterfall. Castiel used to love to fly to the top and dive down with Gabriel and his father cheering him on. 

He chuckled as he thought about young Dean trying to dive off the waterfall. He could see his human parents scolding him. When Dean asked what was so funny, Castiel told him of the time he got trapped in an ice giant’s belly when he visited the giant’s realm on a family vacation. He dared not tell Dean about him imagining younger Dean trying to jump from a waterfall. 

Eventually, the conversations slowed down and he found himself lying on the blanket. Dean’s head on his chest as Castiel held him. They watched the stars above, never-ending falling stars in the night sky. 

“This is perfect.” Dean finally said, breaking the silence. 

Castiel hummed. “It is.” 

“Cas?” Dean asked. 

 “Yes?” Castiel waited for Dean to say something, but when he never did, he turned his head. 

Dean was staring in his eyes, green eyes dancing with want. He wanted Castiel to kiss him, but he wouldn’t come out and say it; but Castiel felt it. Perhaps Gabriel had been right; Castiel had been keeping the ball in Dean’s court. He’d put all the pressure on Dean, and maybe he questioned what Castiel wanted. 

He took a risk and closed the gap between them. 

When their lips touched, Castiel felt a spark shoot through his body. It felt like living without breathing and finally getting that first gasp of air. Dean kissing him back felt like flying through an open sky. Castiel reached out, cupping Dean’s face. Things quickly heated up sooner than Castiel expected, and it made his head spin. 

Dean climbed on top of him, straddling him, and jamming his tongue between his lips. Castiel hummed as their tongues swirled together. He grabbed Dean’s shoulders, pulling him closer. Castiel could lose himself in this, and he was willing to, but he forgot that, unlike Dean, he didn’t need air. 

Dean pulled away, catching his breath. Once he did, he gave Castiel a lopsided smile. “Heya Cas.” 

“Hello, Dean.” Cas smiled back. 

“Not to make things awkward, but…” Dean licked his lips and drummed his fingers on Castiel’s shoulders. “You didn’t happen to bring protection with ya, did you? I didn’t pack any when I uh, left my apartment. I wasn’t planning on, you know, Mystery Spot Inn and all.” 

Castiel’s brows furrowed. He tried his best to keep up with Dean, but sometimes he felt lost. He was really lost right now. “Dean, we don’t need protection here. It’s just us, and no one will attack us here.” 

Dean broke out into laughter and for a while, he couldn’t stop. He gasped for air as he tried to calm himself down. Wiping away tears with his finger. “Condoms, Cas, did you bring any condoms?” 

“What’s that?” 

Dean frowned. “Don’t you angels have something to, you know…” he waved his hand around helplessly. “Prevent pregnancy? I’m not ready to be a dad, Cas. I don’t wanna take any risks.” 

“Oh!” Castiel’s eyes grew wide, finally grasping what was going on. “Lean up for a moment.” 

Dean did and Castiel pressed his two forefingers where the womb was located. Dean flinched back, hissing. “What was that?” 

Castiel didn’t answer right away. He pressed his fingers above the base of his penis and poured his grace into it. “I warded us. It’ll prevent us from being able to reproduce. It’ll stay there until we’re ready–I mean, if we decide if we want to–If we get to that place, I mean.” 

Dean’s brows shot up. “That’s angel birth control?!” A smile broke out across his face. “Dude, fuckin’ cool!” 

Castiel didn’t have a chance to respond before Dean smashed their lips together. As they devoured each other’s mouths, Castiel felt a little bolder. His hands slipped down Dean’s back. His fingers dipped under his shirt, and it felt amazing to touch Dean’s bare skin. 

Dean must’ve felt the same. He leaned back, grabbed the end of his shirt, and began tugging it up. 

A booming thunder cracked through the silence like a whip. The world shook so hard below them that it tossed Dean off him. Castiel grabbed him, pulled him close, and held him as everything around them trembled. 

“Son of a bitch!” Dean shouted. “I’m going to fuckin’ murder your brothers!” 

 

Notes:

I am so sorry that I keep cockblocking Dean and Cas 🤣

Chapter 17: Family Reunion Take Two

His lunch violently spewed out of his mouth. One moment, the sun had been out and there was grass underneath him. In a split second, it was dark out, and the pavement was digging into the palms of his hands. Sam gasped, took a second for his mind to stop reeling, before he took in his surroundings. He felt his heart skip a beat. His eyes saw it, but he had trouble believing it. Across from him, he could see Dean’s car, but unlike his dream, there were three others in the parking lot. 

Sam fell onto his back, stared up at the glowing neon sign. Bright purple letters that read, Mystery Spot Inn, blared in the night sky. 

Sam wasn’t losing his mind… 

He wasn’t crazy… 

It wasn’t all in his head… 

Mystery Spot Inn was real, and Dean was here. 

Sam sprang into action. He rushed over to his rental car and popped open the trunk. He didn’t have the gun John gave him. He had it locked away in his old bedroom back at home. Sam didn’t go to collect it. Didn’t want his parents to know what he was trying to do. They would think he was losing his mind, so he didn’t tell them he flew back in. So, Sam had to swing by a pawn shop before he began his search. 

Sam pulled out the pistol he bought, almost too easily, and loaded it. He made sure the safety was off and he hurried down the parking lot. He kept his eyes peeled open, but he didn’t see anyone else. Once he reached the door, the very same one from his dream, he lifted his fist, ready to knock, but froze. 

In his dream, Dean wasn’t in this room. In the dream before that, he was being murdered by the two men. 

Sam needed to find those men. Had to stop them before they killed his brother. 

He held the gun pointed to the ground, but he was ready to shoot if needed. Sam quickly stalked down the pavement while doing his best to keep quiet. Once he got to the lobby window, he pressed his back to the wall and peered in. 

He saw the backs of a blonde-headed man and a woman with long red hair. But he could see his face . The man he dreamed about twice, the man who shoved a blade into Dean’s gut. He was real, and he was talking to the couple. Sam didn’t know what this place was, but he had a feeling that if the couple were here, then it wasn’t by accident. That somehow, they were in on whatever this was as well. 

Adrenaline pumped through his veins. Sam ducked, crawling under the window, and stopped right before he was right at the door. This was it, no turning back now. Sam didn’t know what would happen when he confronted the man from his dreams, but he knew one damn thing. 

He wouldn’t leave without Dean. 

Sam slowly opened the door, but squeezed his eyes shut when the bell rang. He felt his chest tightening. 

“I’ll be right with you!” The man called out. 

When Sam opened his eyes, the man from his dream was distracted. Still talking to the two in front of Sam. He walked further in and listened. 

“...and I just had to come and check out this human.” The woman said. “I mean, it’s not every day this happens. I’ve only heard of it happening once, and that’s been forever ago.” 

Human? What the fuck? 

“Well, you’re gonna have to wait.” The man from his dreams said. “The human and Cassie are getting busy.” 

Rage consumed Sam and he saw red. He lifted the gun, not caring that the red-haired woman was in his way. “He’s raping my brother?!” Sam roared. 

Suddenly, all the attention was on him. Three beings, Sam didn’t know what the hell they were, stared at him. All eyes were in disbelief, like he was some kind of oddity. 

“Yoooou!” The man from his dream shouted, sounding almost offended. 

“Another? So quickly?” The blonde-haired man all but gasped. 

The dream man ran from behind the counter, rushing over to Sam while waggling his finger at him. “You’re not supposed to be here! Damn it! This is what you get for dreaming about this place! How did you even do that—wait…” The guy stopped dead in his tracks. “Did you say brother?” 

“I did!” Sam growled, keeping his aim square on the man. Omega or not, Sam would put a bullet through his skull. “Give him back to me now!” 

The short man chuckled. “Well, I can’t. Dean and my brother are a little busy.” 

“It ends now!” Sam shouted, his grip on the gun tightening. “I might not have stopped your brother from raping mine, but I won’t let you kill him!” The other man’s brows shot up. “That’s right! I know what you were planning! I dreamed about that too! I saw you stab him.” 

Dread filled Sam when the man turned back to the others. They shared a look, smiling at each other before they all broke out into laughter. 

“What?!” Sam demanded. 

The man turned his attention back to Sam. He smirked at him and shrugged. “You’re too late for that too.” 

His heart shattered, but his stomach churned at the same time as it hit him. “Your brother… Is violating Dean’s corpse?” 

The man barked out a laugh. “What can I say? My brother is sick in the head.” 

While Sam died on the inside, they all laughed. He was too late… He didn’t make it in time. Despite the dreams, he was always going to be too late. A switch flipped inside of him, and he felt his body shake from anger. He might be too late, but he wouldn’t let them get away with this. Sam pulled the trigger and the man in front of him fell to the ground, hard. 

Sam heaved, waiting to see the blood pouring onto the floor from this fucker’s head. 

But the blood never came. 

The man sat up, pointing a finger at Sam and laughing. Sam felt sick to his stomach. There was no evidence that he ever pulled the trigger. 

What the hell is this man? 

“Talk about a case of déjà vu!” 

“Hey!” The blonde man shouted. “I don’t care if you can’t kill my brother! He’s still my brother!”

Sam didn’t have time to react. The older man threw a blade with such force that it pierced Sam’s chest. He could feel it in his chest plate and his heart. His gun clattered to the floor and all Sam could do was stare down at the handle as his body went into shock. 

“Damn it, Luci!” The dream man shouted. He jumped to his feet and rushed over to Sam. “If he dies, Dean isn’t ever going to forgive us! If I don’t heal him fast enough, then Michael won’t let me bring him back! He was furious the first time!” 

Sam heard the man talk, but he couldn’t process what he was saying. All he could do was watch as the man walked over and yanked the blade out of his chest. Sam gasped, waiting for blood to squirt out of him or something, but nothing happened. 

“Oooooh shit…” The man looked pale as he took steps back from him. 

“What?!” Sam cried as he patted his chest, but there was no wound. 

The red-haired woman stomped her foot and threw her arms down like a toddler. “No! No fucking way! No way that disgusting, second-hand clothes-wearing, mud monkey is Lucifer’s true mate!” 

“Lucifer!?” Sam cried. 

The blonde man, apparently Lucifer, let out a thundering roar. Then the world was trembling, and Sam fell to his knees. He swore the floor would break apart as it actually started thundering and lightning lit the skies. Behind him, it flashed violently as it struck the ground. 

“Nooooo!” Lucifer roared again. He pointed at the redhead woman. “I’m mated already! I love her! I’m not trading a diamond like her for,” he gestured at Sam, “this!” 

“I don’t want you either!” Sam screamed back. “As far as I’m concerned, my girlfriend is my true mate! Not you!” 

The world suddenly stopped shaking, and the storm ceased as Lucifer heaved. “So… We both agree that this doesn’t have to mean a thing?” 

“Damn straight!” Sam spat. 

“Okay!” Lucifer cheerfully said before grabbing his mate, planting a huge kiss on her. 

She kissed him back and then the next thing Sam knew, they were on the counter, going at it. 

“Hey!” The shorter man shouted. “Rent a damn room and do it there!” 

Lucifer and his mate broke the kiss, but before he could say anything, the door behind the counter swung open and Sam went into shock again. Dean came storming out, pointing a finger at Lucifer as if he weren’t the literal devil, but a pup who had been acting up. 

“Damn it, Lucifer! You got the worst fucking time in the world! Can’t I get laid without you cosmically cockblocking us?!” 

“What can I say?” Lucifer replied in a tone not of anger, but as if he and Dean were friends. “I’m just really in tune with my emotions.” 

“Dean…” Sam gasped. He couldn’t feel his body. Didn’t know how he got the word out of his mouth. He didn’t think Dean would hear him. Thought the word was a ghost of a whisper. 

But Dean turned, his eyes grew wide. He looked like he had just seen a ghost and Sam couldn’t blame him. He thought he had lost Dean forever. 

“Sammy?” Dean’s voice wobbled. 

Tears welled in Sam’s eyes, and he huffed a laugh as he nodded his head. “It’s really me.” 

Dean ran and Sam opened his arms, accepting the crushing hug. He held onto his big brother as Dean sobbed into his shoulder. 

Notes:

Okay, two chapters today lol. Might get out a third one, but first, I sooo want a Zelda break lol

Chapter 18: Déjà Vu

Okay, so Dean cried, but he dared anyone not to after not seeing their family for almost a whole damn year. Dean squeezed his brother tight, as tight as he could. He didn’t know how Sammy got here, or if this wasn’t just all in his head. 

But if it was real, Sammy didn’t give up on him. Sam didn’t think he was just some screw up. He cared enough to look for him, and that meant the world to Dean. 

He would’ve been happy to hold Sammy for hours, but his brother pulled away. He tried to yank Dean, but he kept his feet planted in place. “Dean! We have to go!” 

“Your hair.” Dean chuckled. Taking his brother in after not laying eyes on him for almost a year. “I thought it would be longer by now.”

“Dean!” Sam yanked him and this time he stumbled forward, but he quickly regained himself. Dean dug his heels in and Sam’s brows knitted together. “Dude?! What are you doing?!” 

“It’s just after ten months, I thought it would be longer cause you were goin’ for that hippy look.” 

Sam’s face twisted with more confusion. “Ten months? Dean, what the hell are you talking about?” 

Now it was Dean’s turn to be lost. “Dude! How long did it take you to figure out I’ve been missing?!” 

“Within a couple of hours. Mom called and said someone took you.” 

Dean’s brows shot up to his hairline. “That fast? But that’s impossible. I didn’t ask Cas to reach out to you guys until I’ve been missing for three days.” 

“You asked him to–Look! It’s impossible because mom called me back about three hours after, somehow realizing you were missing. Then I flew back into town to track you–Dean... You’ve only been missing for three days.” 

Dean stared at his brother, refusing to believe it because he knew how long he had been here and it was more than three fucking days. But Sammy wasn’t the one to fuck around like this and–Dean spun on his heels. Gabe, Lucifer, and some omega he had never seen before leaned on the counter, watching on with interest. Cas was hovering near the back door, looking unsure if he should approach or not. 

“Really?!” Dean threw up his hand. “You couldn’t find five seconds to tell me it’s only been three damn days on earth time?!” 

“I love family reunions.” Gabe sighed. 

“This isn’t funny, Gabe!” Dean snapped. “Why the hell wouldn’t you tell me?!” 

Gabe gave him a WTF look, dramatically rolled his wrist, swung his hands out. “Well, Dean-O, as far as we knew, you’d be here forever! You get easily confused by things and I didn’t want your tiny human brain melting and leaking out of your ears! Besides, you're permanent here, so you had to get used to our time!” 

“You know what!” Dean growled, pointing his finger at him. “You’re a bag of dicks! It’s not my fault that you guys have freaky rules!” 

“Dean!” Sam shouted. “Stop arguing with him! We have to go!” 

Sammy grabbed him by the wrist, and this time, he used all his alpha strength to pull him. Dean let out a long sigh. “I’ll see you guys when he figures it out.” 

“This is my wife, Anael!” Lucifer quickly pointed at the omega next to him as Sammy dragged him. 

Dean waved at her. “Nice to meet you!” 

“It was intriguing meeting you!” She shouted back as Dean was dragged through the door. 

Finally, he began running with Sammy across the parking lot. “Dude, you gotta stop. This is gonna be pointless.” 

“You’re talking crazy!” Sam shouted. “Dude, I don’t know what they’ve done to you! I don’t know how they fucked with your mind, but we gotta get out of here!” 

Sammy opened the passenger door and practically tossed Dean in. He sighed as he waited for Sam to get in. His brother hopped into the car and started the engine. 

“It’s not gonna work.” Dean tried again as Sam screeched out of the parking lot. 

“I don’t know what you’re talking about, but we’re going home!” 

“Well…” Dean shrugged. “It’s going to take two hours before we loop back so–” 

“What?” Sam’s brows furrowed together. 

“So, I’ll have plenty of time to explain what’s going on.” Dean leaned back in the seat and got comfortable. He had a feeling it would take some time for this to click for Sam. “So, I don’t know if it’s obvious, but we’re not on Earth anymore, and those people in there? Not human.” 

“No shit!” Sam spat with that bitchy tone Dean missed oh so much. “I shot the short one in the head and he just got back up!” 

Dean barked out a laugh and slapped his knee. “You shot Gabe, too?! That’s so funny! I tried to put a bullet through his skull too!” 

“Dean! What the hell are they?!” 

“Okay, so, just bear with me because this will be a lot to take in.” Dean drummed his fingers on his knee. He wanted this to be easy, but with Sam, it was never easy. “So, they’re angels.” 

“What?!” Sam cried. 

“Well, Cas is an angel for sure. There are other angels in the back, but they don’t really leave the cafeteria all that often. Gabe and Lucifer are archangels, and I don’t know what Anael is. It’s kind of hard to tell unless they’re bending reality with their crazy freaky archangel powers.” 

“Those weren’t angels!” Sam argued. “I don’t know what monsters they were, but they aren’t angels!”  

“Yes, they are.” 

“No–” 

“Sam!” Dean huffed. “Are you going to let me explain?” He saw Sammy’s mouth twist. “Then let me do it without interruptions. You drive, and I’ll tell you everything.” 

“Fine.” 

“Okay, so angels aren’t like angels from the Bible, because the Bible isn’t accurate. They were just like, I don’t know, spacemen who visited Earth a fucking long time ago and then as they stopped interacting with people, they became part of religion. But Heaven and Hell are both real, I know that sounds crazy, but I’ve been to Heaven.” 

“What?!”

“I know, it’s crazy!” Dean waved his hands. “But it was part of this plan to get me out. Oh, so Mystery Spot Inn is this pocket dimension, and it’s a motel for angels. Humans weren’t supposed to be able to find it, but somehow, sometimes something happens and a human will bloop in there. I was one of those poor bastards.” Dean decided to leave out the part about Cas being his true mate and that was how he ended up here. Sammy didn’t seem to be the biggest fan of them right now, and what Dean was telling him was overwhelming. Best to ease him into it. “So, anyway, they can’t just take us out of this dimension because it fucks with our bodies or something. But Gabe had this idea to stab me–I was on board with it!” 

“Dean!” Sam cried. 

“I swear there was a reason for it!” Dean tried and Sam groaned. “Look, they never tried to take a dead body out before! So, they killed me, took my body out, while I was kicking in Heaven. Well, kind of. I was only in the waiting room–and yeah, Heaven has a waiting room, but I don’t know what that’s about because I was only there for like, maybe twenty seconds. Even though my body was without a soul for thirty minutes. Heaven time runs differently, too. Long story short, it didn’t work, so they had to bring me back. Are you getting this so far?” 

“No!” Sam whined. 

“Nah, it’s okay. I thought my mind would explode, about a hundred times, and I was discovering this over weeks.” Dean sighed and looked out the window. “Let’s just take a break.” 

Sam didn’t argue with him. He just drove. Rounding bend after bend. Dean counted down the minutes until finally, he saw the top of that ugly glowing sign. Sam slowed down and Dean watched his brother’s mouth fall open. 

“No fucking way…” 

Dean rolled down his window. He didn’t know how, but he knew Cas was waiting nearby and he wanted to say hey. Sam slowly drove by, unable to believe what he saw. Dean got it; he was in the same boat ten months (three days?) ago. Just as Dean suspected, Cas was there, waiting by the sign. Dean smiled as he leaned out the window and waved. 

“Heya Cas!” 

Cas gave him a little wave. “Hello Dean.” 

Sam slammed his foot onto the gas pedal and they were speeding down the road. Dean threw back his head and laughed. “When I tried again, I actually turned around the other way. Then I tried running into the woods. Like, maybe three times?” 

“Dean…” Sam growled. “What the hell is going on?!” 

“Oh yeah, there’s no way out. But hey!” Dean grinned at him. “At least we’re together again.” 

“No!” Sam protested. His grip on the steering wheel was so tight, Dean saw his knuckles turning white. “I found this place! I can get us out!” 

“I don’t know how you found this place. Humans aren’t meant to be here.” Dean licked his lips. “The only reason I ended up here is because uh…” Best to tell him now. “I might have a true mate here and our souls were calling out to each other or whatever. But once you’re in, there’s no way out.” 

Dean watched the color drain from Sam’s face. “True mates?” 

Dean knew his brother wouldn’t be happy about it, but he didn’t expect him to be so spooked. “Yeah, I mean, at least for my case. That’s how I got here. It’s kind of like an unintentional cosmic one-way trap. You get pulled in and then that’s just kind of it.” 

“Oh shit!” Sam cried. 

Dean was a lead-foot driver, but right now, Sammy was scaring the shit out of him with how fast he was going. Dean held on, hoping his baby brother didn’t kill them. He wondered if Gabe would pluck them from Heaven if they died in a fiery crash. It didn’t feel like it took them as long to return to the motel. The second Sam saw the sign poking above the trees, he threw the car and reverse. He was finally trying to drive in the opposite direction. Dean grumbled and told his brother he’d been up for hours, so he was going to take a nap. 

Dean drifted off while Sam made the third attempt to escape. He wasn’t sure how many times his brother tried. He just knew when he woke up, Sam was coasting into the parking lot. Once he was kind of in a space, he shut off the car and turned to Dean. Giving him that pitiful puppy-dog look.

“Give up?” Dean asked. 

“I ran out of gas…” 

Dean blinked and yeah, Sammy had been driving for a while. He could see the sky lightening up. Morning was approaching fast. Dean gave Sam a few slaps on the shoulder. “Let’s get you hooked up with a room. Then I’m crashing.” 

Dean didn’t give Sam time to answer. He threw open the car door and walked his happy ass across the parking lot. 

“Really?! You’re gonna hook me up with a motel room?!” Dean forgot that tone of Sam’s. The one he used to use all the time when he thought Dean was being reckless or a dumbass. 

“Look, if you don’t want your own room, you can stay in mine. But!” Dean held up his finger. “I get the bed! It’s been my home for ten months, so you gotta take the couch. It might be uncomfortable.” 

“But I have so many questions! Who’s your true mate? What did they do to you–” 

“Nope.” Dean shut down that shit quickly. “Questions after I at least get some shut eye.” 

Dean could tell how unhappy Sammy was, but a guy needed his rest. He fished out his key from his pocket, but before he could jam it into its lock, someone whistled at him. He looked over and everyone was standing outside the lobby staring. 

“Dude!” Gabe shouted. “What the heck?! He tried way more times to escape than you did! What’s up with that?!” 

Dean waved his hand dismissively and unlocked his door. He shut it behind them, tossed Sammy the blanket and an extra pillow. Then, he kicked off his boots and socks and crawled under the sheets. He fell asleep feeling Sam’s eyes burning into him. 

Notes:

Lol I think that's it for me. I might crash early tonight lol

Chapter 19: On The Other Side

“I want answers.” 

Dean groaned. He hadn’t even opened his eyes yet and Sammy was already bugging him. Well, all things considered, he was glad Sam was here to annoy him. Dean was thankful for Cas, Gabe, and all his friends here, but it wasn’t the same. Dean missed the ever-loving shit out of Sam. So he wouldn’t bitch about it, after five more minutes. He pulled the sheets closer to him and buried his head into his pillow. 

“Ten more minutes…” He mumbled. 

“I gave you ten more minutes twice. Come on, Dean, we can’t just sit around and do nothing.” 

Dean could feel Sam burning holes into him. He wasn’t going to stop and Dean huffed. “Fiiiiine, but I need coffee first.” 

“Dean–” 

Dean lifted his head and glared at Sam. “Do you really wanna deal with me without caffeine?” 

Sam twisted his mouth and Dean decided to take that as a yes. He tossed the sheets off and put on his socks and boots. It was silent long enough to close the door behind them. 

“How could you drink coffee here?” Sam asked. “For all you know, it could kill you.” 

Dean waved his hand dismissively. “I thought so too, at first, but a guy’s gotta have coffee and I’m still kicking.” 

“Dude! How can you trust them? Gabe stabbed you!” Sam sucked in air, ready to go on. 

Dean held up his hand, stopping him. “Not until I had my coffee.” 

He heard Sam grumble something under his breath, but Dean didn’t care. If he could get used to this place in less than a month, he bet Sammy could get used to it even faster. Dean shoved through the doors of the lobby, with Sammy right behind him. 

“Goooooooood morning, Dean-O! Good morning Sammy!” Gabe greeted way too cheerfully. Damn angels and their no need for sleep bullshit. Dean threw his hand up in the air and muttered a morning. He didn’t know what Sam did, he probably gave Gabe a bitch look because the archangel snorted. “Even grumpier than Dean-O before coffee, huh?” 

Dean shoved open the door to the cafeteria and walked over to the counter. Samandriel smiled at him when he saw him. “Morning, Dean! Coffee, for sure. Ultimate breakfast or a double bacon egg sandwich today?” 

“Oooh, I need grease.” Dean replied. 

Samandriel grabbed the mic and leaned in. “A black coffee and an ultimate breakfast for Dean.” Dean stepped to the side so Sam could order. He could tell his brother wasn’t happy about it, but hunger won over distrust. Samandriel’s smile slipped. “Yeah?” 

“Uhhh…” Sam cleared his throat. “Do you have turkey bacon and veggie egg whites here?” 

Samandriel pressed down on the button again. “Turkey bacon and veggie egg whites for Lucifer’s bottom bitch who thinks egg whites are actually healthier.”  Dean threw his head back and laughed while Sam stiffened. Samandriel looked Sam up and down. “And an iced coffee with soy milk or something.” 

“Dude… These guys are assholes.” Sam hissed as they walked over to the pickup section. 

“Nah, they’re pretty cool once you get to know them.” Dean grinned. “And you gotta admit, they’re pretty funny.” Then his smile slipped. “Why did he call you Lucifer’s bottom bitch?” 

“Coffee first.” Sam blurted and Dean raised a brow. Now he wanted to wait? 

“Here ya go, Dean.” Malachi said as he placed Dean’s tray down. 

“Thanks man.” 

Malachi’s smile slipped when he looked at Sam and quickly retreated to the kitchen. 

“He’s shy.” Dean told Sam. 

Within seconds, Sam’s food was ready and they found a booth to sit at. Dean didn’t waste any time gulping down some coffee and shoving his food into his mouth. Sam, on the other hand, poked at his food with a fork and smelled his iced coffee. Dean chuckled and Sam raised a brow. 

“What?” 

“Nothing.” Dean shook his head. “It’s just I’ve been here so long that I almost forgot I used to be so suspicious too.” 

“So…” Sam placed down his fork and crossed his arms. “It’s true then? For you, it’s really been ten months?” 

Dean shrugged. “Yeah… It’s been ten months for me. I… I never thought I’d see you again.” He gave Sammy a small smile. “I hate that you’re stuck too, but god, it’s good to see you.” 

“It’s good to see you too.” Sammy smiled at him, for a split second, before that serious expression returned. “We can’t stay here. We have to find a way out.” 

“Trust me, I’ve tried. Cas and Gabe tried. There’s no way out, so eat your food.” Dean gestured to Sammy’s full plate. 

Sam grabbed that nasty turkey bacon and took a bite. “Who’s your true mate? What have they done to you? Have they hurt you? Why do you have a laugh, live, love picture in your bathroom?” 

“They haven’t hurt me.” Dean replied. Choosing not to talk about how he and Gabe started on the wrong foot, or how Cas attempted to kill him in the beginning. “Not counting the time Gabe killed me, but again, it was part of a plan that didn’t pan out.” 

“Dean? Who’s your true mate?” Sam asked again. 

“Eat some of your egg and I’ll tell you.” Dean nodded to his brother’s plate. Sam huffed, gave him a bitch face, but he did take a bite of his egg. “His name is Cas, and he always wears that tan coat.” 

Sam gasped. “The guy who held you while Gabe stabbed you?!” 

Dean’s brows furrowed together. “How did you know that?” He was certain he hadn’t told Sammy that. Sam dropped his head and shrugged. “Dude, how did you know?” 

“I might have dreamed it.” Sammy admitted. 

Ten months ago, Dean would’ve called bullshit, but after everything he’d seen? Yeah, he totally bought it. It was far from the strangest thing he’d ever seen. “I asked him to do it. I wanted to make sure Gabe got me on the first time.” 

“He hasn’t done anything to you, has he?” Sam looked around, then leaned in closer. His voice dropped to a whisper. “He hasn’t touched you, has he? ‘Cause I swear if he did, I’ll kill him.” 

Dean snorted. “He has and good luck trying to kill him.” 

“I’m going to find a way!” Sam roared. His brother started to get up and Dean dropped his fork. 

“Dude! Chill!” He cried as he waved his hands. “It was consesual! I wanted him to!” 

“How could you want that?!” Sam hissed. “Dean! He’s a monster!” 

Dean huffed. “He’s not a monster. He’s an angel and my true mate on top of that.” 

“Just because he’s your true mate doesn’t mean you have to submit to him.” 

Dean’s face twisted. “Eww! Don’t say it like that! I didn’t… I’m nobody’s bitch! Look, I was here for ten months. I got to know him, and I really like him, okay?” He grabbed the cord around his neck and showed off Cas’s grace. “This is the gift he gave me. It’s his grace, the most personal gift an angel could give. It wasn’t like I just jumped into bed with him. We worked up to this.” 

Sam’s shoulders slumped. “Okay… Okay, I get it. You’re stuck here, and you were lonely, but I’m going to get us out.” 

Dean shrugged. “Say you can? It doesn’t change the fact that Cas is it for me. He can get out of here no problem. He and I will still be a thing. So, you’re gotta deal with that.” 

“Whatever, I’m still getting us out of here.” Sam said, pushing himself out of the booth. 

Dean sighed. “And how do you plan on doing that?” 

“There’s gotta be something here. Some exit, and I’m going to find it.” 

Dean sipped on his coffee, not saying a word as Sam stormed out of the cafeteria. There was nothing he could say. Sammy had to learn this on his own. Dean enjoyed his breakfast. Even tried Sam’s bacon, and hey, it wasn’t too bad. When he was done, he cleaned up. Tossing the rest of Sam’s food into the bed and placing the empty trays and cups on the counter. 

Dean found Gabe still at the counter. He was playing with a ping pong paddle, not missing once. Dean leaned on the counter and watched him for a few moments. “So, my brother’s here.” 

“He is.” Gabe said with a smirk. “I wonder how long it’s going to take him to give in.” 

Dean snorted. “I don’t know, man. He’s stubborn, has been since he was a pup.” 

“How do you feel about it?” 

Dean shrugged. “I mean… I wouldn’t wish this on my worst enemy. Like he had a real life, unlike me. College, on the track of becoming a lawyer, and a smoking hot girlfriend. But…” He traced his finger in circles on the cold, smooth surface. “I ain’t going to lie, though. I missed the hell out of him. Not to say you guys aren’t like family, but he’s my blood. Part of me is happy we can spend forever here together.” 

“Oh, that too. I can get that.” Gabe replied. “But I’m talking about him being true mates with my older brother.” 

“What?!” Dean cried. “He’s true mates with who?!” 

Gabe raised a brow and smirked. “Ooooooh, he didn’t tell you that he was true mates with Luci?” 

Dean was out the door and outside before he knew it. Just in time to see Sam holding his nose, blood pouring from under his fingers. He looked over to the motel room Sam had just broken into and laughed. 

“Seriously? He did the Looney Tunes thing again?” 

“What’s so funny?” Sam snapped. 

“Nothing.” Dean chuckled, shaking his head. “This just takes me back to the good ol’ days.”  

“Stop laughing at me!” Sam growled as he stood up, blood still running down his nose. “And help me find a way out.” 

“There’s no way out.” Dean frowned. “And why the Hell didn’t you tell me that Lucifer was your true mate? Why the hell did I have to find out from Gabe?” 

“Because!” Sam shrugged as he walked to the next room. Dean watched him try to pick the lock. “I didn’t want you to know I’m true mates with the literal devil!” 

“Actually, he’s not the devil. He’s an archangel and he didn’t fall. He and Michael set up Heaven and Hell because they didn’t think it was fair that good souls had to put up with bad ones. Lucifer chose to run Hell. He wasn’t cast out or anything.” 

“It doesn’t matter!” Sam huffed. “I have Jess! He has that omega bitch! We don’t want each other!” 

Dean crossed his arms. “Well, I still don’t like finding this out from Gabe. I’d rather find it from you.” 

“It wasn’t Gabe’s business to tell, and it’s not yours to know! If I wanted you to know, then–” The door opened and Sam took a step in without looking. 

He yelped as he fell. Dean walked over to see what crazy room Gabe had conjured up this time. A pool filled with Jell-O, nice. “I wouldn’t stay in there too long, Sammy. Gabe likes to hide things that’ll eat you in these rooms.” 

Sam gave him a bitch look and he just chuckled. Dean walked away, deciding to leave Sam experience this on his own. Besides, there was this certain angel Dean didn’t feel like he had gotten to spend enough time with. 

“Cas?” Dean called out and he could feel eyes on the back of his neck. Dean smiled and turned around. 

“Hello Dean.” Cas greeted him with the smallest hint of a smile. “How are things with your brother?” 

Dean shrugged and they began walking. “I haven’t really got to spend a lot of downtime with him. He’s going through that phase where he thinks he can get out.” 

Cas hummed. “I can’t say I blame him.” 

“Nah, if anyone gets it, it’s me.” Dean agreed. “I’m just going to let it run out of his system.” 

“I’m sorry this happened to him too.” 

“Yeah, I just don’t understand it. What is the possibility that this would happen again? You know? Mix species true mates?” 

“I was thinking that too.” Cas said, sounding thoughtful. Dean watched his mate think. “It’s very strange. I’ve only heard of an angel having a human true mate once. Then we happened with us, and now Sam and Lucifer? So close together from us? I don’t understand it.” 

“You don’t think…” Dean felt sick just thinking about it. “You don’t think that every human that–” 

They froze when they heard Sammy scream. They turned around and his brother was climbing out and slamming the door shut behind him. 

“Did you see it?!” Dean called out and Sam snapped his head towards them. “I didn’t see the ball pit monster!” 

“You!” Sam growled. He marched over to them. 

“Oh god…” Dean groaned. “Cas, whatever he says, I’m sorry.” 

“No need.” Cas told him. He stood tall with his head held high as a foaming at the mouth, Sammy approached him. 

“You!” Sammy growled again. “You–” The words died in his throat when he saw the vial around Cas’s neck. “Is that–” 

“That’s right.” Dean answered, crossing his arms. “I gave Cas a vial of my blood. To show him that I accepted him as my mate.” 

Sam glared at Cas. “I don’t like you. I don’t know what mind spell you have over my brother, but I will find a way to get him out of this place. Away from you.” 

Cas just cocked a brow. “You certainly will not take Dean away from me. No one dictates Dean. He’s free to love me, and he’s free to call it off.” 

Sam snarled at Cas and Dean was sick of it. 

“Look,” Dean grabbed Cas’s hand. “Knock yourself out trying to find an exit. While you do that, I’m going to have sex with my boyfriend. Come on, Cas!”

“Gross!” Sam whined, but Dean ignored him. 

He tugged Cas down to his room because, damn it, it was about time they went all the way with no interruptions. 

Notes:

Lol so I was gone until ten pm, so this will be the only chapter. Also, sorry, but I'll probably won't reply to comments until tomorrow because it's 2am and I'm about to crash lol

Chapter 20: The One Where They Finally Do It

Dean jumped at Cas the second the door was closed. The alpha caught him, held on to him as they stumbled backwards with their lips locked together. Lucifer was staying at the motel, but Michael wasn’t there. Sam and Lucifer seemed to work out the true mate thing fairly quickly. So, there should be no damn reason for any more archangel drama. 

If there was, Dean was taking Cas’s angel blade, and he’d shove it in Lucifer’s throat. 

Dean chuckled when he and Cas fell onto the bed. He looked down, his smile growing bigger as Cas looked up at him, smiling so big, he could see his gums. God, Dean wanted this guy so bad. More than he ever wanted any alpha. That was including Lisa Braeden. Dean wanted Cas so much, he could barely take it. 

And why should they wait? 

They played around enough when they were interrupted twice. Dean slipped down, settling between Cas’s legs. He looked up at Cas, whose eyes were wide, pupils blown with want. 

“Are you sure?” Cas asked. 

Dean raised a brow. “Don’t you remember what you just said out there?” 

Cas gave him a sheepish smile. “Let me just… Vanish these clothes.” 

“No!” Dean quickly said and Cas’s brows furrowed together. “Look, you angels got some pretty cool things about ya.” His hands reached out to Cas’s belt. “But part of the fun…” He tugged at it, undoing it. “Is shedding the clothes.” 

A gasp escaped Cas’s lips when Dean unzipped him and freed his cock. The angel hadn’t felt anything yet, Dean could swear his life on that. He gave Cas a few slow pumps, running his thumb over the tip of his dick, loving the way the angel gasped and squirmed under his touch. 

So, angels were sensitive, just like humans. Good to know. 

Dean pressed his lips to the tip of Cas’s cock, pressing the smallest kiss on the top. Cas jerked, his hands gripping tight on the blanket. “Oh!” 

Dean chuckled, letting his hot breath ghost Cas and making the alpha squirm and cry out again. This would be so much fun. 

“Clowns?!” Sam screamed so loud, it sounded like he was in the room with them. “Why did it have to be clowns?!”

“Dean?” Cas asked, worry lacing his voice. 

“Nope!” Dean quickly said. “He’ll be fine. We’re doing this.” 

No more wasting time, Dean would get laid before something insane happened again. He took Cas into his mouth, making the angel jerk and shout for a God that Dean was pretty sure didn’t exist. (They haven’t mentioned him in their crazy ass lore.) He dove right into it. Bobbing his head and taking Cas deeper, inch by inch. Cas’s hands flew out, holding onto Dean’s shoulders for dear life. 

“O-oh, Dean! Fuuck, yes!” Cas cried and Dean loved every little sound he drew from the guy. 

He needed to draw out more, so he used all his tricks. Swirling his tongue on the way down, dragging it on the way up, and giving the tip of the cock extra love before going back down. He let Cas get used to it before he pulled away so he could lick his way down to the base. Dipping his head down and giving the alpha’s balls some attention before running his tongue back up, licking the slit of Cas’s cock, before taking him fully in. 

The whole time, Cas was twisting and shouting, and it was fucking beautiful. 

Until Cas pulled Dean back, gasping for air. Dean had a cocky grin on his face because he didn’t know angels gasped like that. They didn’t need to breathe after all. 

“We have to slow down.” Cas panted. “Or–” 

“Right.” Dean shuffled back so he could take off his shirt. 

Cas was being good, shrugging off his coat and tossing it to the ground. The guy was starting to get the hang of it. As Cas undid his tie, Dean stood up so he could kick off his boots and wiggle out of his socks. 

“Oh god! Spiders!” Sam cried from somewhere outside. “They’re everywhere!” 

Dean pointed his finger at Cas. “Ignore it.” 

“Done.” Cas replied, freeing his arm from his dress shirt. 

Dean’s hands fumbled with his belt, but before he could even free it from the first loop, he yelped when Cas easily picked him up. He gasped as the alpha dropped him onto the bed, on his stomach. He barely had time to react before Cas easily tugged his jeans and boxers down to his ankles.  

“Of fuck…” Dean moaned. His hardening cock twitched and his already slick ass became wetter. 

He lifted his legs so Cas could pull the jeans and boxers all the way off. Then the alpha was on the bed, lifting Dean’s ass, and spreading his legs apart. Dean’s heart sped up, his body throbbed with excitement as he waited for the alpha’s cock. He waited for this for too damn long. 

But Dean didn’t get the dick. 

“Oh god!” Dean cried when Cas’s tongue hit his rim, “Oh, fuck! Fuuuuuuck!” 

Dean grabbed the blanket below him, his body twisted, trying to get away from the pleasure he didn’t want to escape from. Something Cas solved by pressing his hand on the small Dean’s back, easily keeping him still. 

Dean was blissfully helpless as Cas took what he wanted from him. Lapping up his slick like it was the sweetest thing in the world. Leaving Dean a blabbing mess. He wasn’t sure if the other angels could hear him. Or if their rooms were soundproof. Dean couldn’t bring himself to care; he wanted to shout for the world to hear. 

Dean’s mind spun, the pleasure making him dizzy as his hard cock swelled. He was losing his mind to pleasure as Cas traced his rim with that beautiful tongue. He shoved it in, doing his damn best to get as much slick as he could get. Dean’s arm trembled as he tried to bring it down, to touch himself. He needed more; he didn’t know how much more he could take. 

Cas hummed when he finally pulled away. “You taste like apple pie.” 

Dean barked out a laugh. “I thought you didn’t like food!” 

“I didn’t say I didn’t like the taste. I just don’t need to eat.” Cas corrected. “But I love apple pie. My favorite taste in the world.” 

“Cas, buddy, I’m gonna need you to stop teasing me now. I need you.” Dean said and the bastard just hummed. “Don’t you fuckin’ make me beg! Not after how many times we’ve been interrupted!” 

“You mean, the two times?” 

“Cas!” Dean growled. 

Cas let out a deep, rumbling chuckle that turned Dean on more than it should. He yelped as the room spun. He was on his back, staring up at Cas with a damn smug smile on his face. Dean huffed. He tried to laugh, but he was too damn blown away by how easily the alpha could manhandle him. And damn, did he love being thrown around in the bedroom. 

“Well? What are you waiting for?” Dean asked. 

“You’re very bossy.” 

Dean smirked at him. “Regretting getting stuck with me as a true mate?” 

“Never.” Cas growled before crashing their lips together. 

Cas shoved his tongue into Dean’s mouth. No gentle licking, no asking permission, and Dean moaned into it. He held onto Cas as the alpha devoured his mouth. He gasped as he felt Cas line his cock to his slopping wet hole. No prepping then, Dean could handle that, even though it had been almost a year since the last time he had gotten laid. Dean held on tight and prepared for a slight sting. 

Only, there wasn’t a hint of pain as Cas pushed in. Dean could feel him, inch by inch, until he had bottomed out, but there was no burn. Dean pushed at Cas’s shoulders, and the angel pulled back. Dean had to gasp for air while he waited for his mind to stop reeling. He stared wide-eyed into Cas, who stared back with him with so much adoration, it made the room spin faster than it already was. 

“Did… Did you just angel mojo your dick?” Dean finally got his question out. 

“I didn’t want to hurt you.” Cas explained. 

There was a long pause, and then Dean lost his shit. He laughed so hard, he had tears running down his cheeks. Cas chuckled along, but he had a feeling the alpha found Dean’s laughing amusing more than the reality of what he was experiencing. 

“God! I love you!” Dean blurted before he could think twice about it. 

Dean felt his heart stop when Cas gasped. His mouth opened, trying to come up with anything to say, but he froze. All he could do was stare helplessly up at Cas. 

“I love you too.” Cas said with such earnestness, it almost terrified Dean. It was almost too good to be true. Things didn’t just fall into place like this for him. Dean wasn’t loved back this easily. It didn’t matter if Cas was his true mate. It was too easy. “I’ve been in love with you for a while, and I was… I was terrified that…” 

Dean gently cupped the back of Cas’s neck. He guided his head down so their lips pressed together. Dean got it; he understood it. Cas didn’t have to explain it, and Dean would show him the best he could that his love wasn’t one-sided. 

Cas didn’t fuck him. They just passionately kissed each other, doing their damn best to pour their feelings into action. As much as Dean was craving Cas’s knot, he could take a pause for this. 

He wasn’t sure how long they stayed like that. Holding each other, kissing the alpha with the passion he had never shown anyone else before. Dean didn’t care; the one thing he learned about living in this place was that time was meaningless. 

When Cas finally pulled away, Dean gulped for air. He didn’t realize how breathless he was. He stupidly smiled up at his alpha. “Heya Cas.” 

“Hello Dean.” Cas smiled back until his expression slipped into something more serious. “I have something else to give you.” 

“Okay.” Dean agreed. He felt drunk, high on life, or whatever. He was sure he’d agree to anything at this moment. 

There was a surge of energy that made the hairs on his arms stand up. For a second, Dean feared Lucifer was up to something to ruin this moment.  But it wasn’t him; Cas’s blue eyes were gone, replaced with the same glowing grace that Dean held around his neck. He could only watch in awe as the energy built up. 

It was gone just as quickly as it started, but in its place were wings. Dean lost his breath, trying to take them in. The black wings with hints of green, purple, and blue that shimmered in the light were stretched to their full glory. Pressing into the walls on either side, and almost scraping the ceiling above. Dean’s mouth fell open, but he choked on his words. He had no words. It was the most otherworldly, amazing, mind-blowing thing Dean had ever seen. 

His trembling hand reached out before his common sense kicked in. Dean froze; he couldn’t touch them. This… This was something pure, angelic, and he couldn’t taint them with his touch.  

“Usually,” Cas chuckled. “An angel would show off their wings to impress the omega they intended to woo. When it comes to us, we don’t do anything conventional. Then again, we are far from conventional, so I believe, despite the lateness of this gift, it’ll be alright.” 

“Cas…” Dean’s voice barely worked for him. “They’re beautiful.” 

“You’re allowed to touch them, Dean. They’re your wings now too.” 

Dean gulped as he reached back out. He gently brushed the tips of his fingers on them. He was too afraid to touch them other than a few brushes here and there. It was softer than Dean expected, slightly silky too, but underneath, he could sort of feel the strength. The warmth also took him by surprise. He didn’t know what he expected Cas’s feathers to feel like, but they were warm to the touch. 

“Do they please you?” Cas asked and Dean could feel the fear inside the alpha. 

“I love them.” He replied breathless. 

He felt Cas’s relief wash over him and the alpha pressed down, kissing him as he slowly eased out of him. Dean felt every inch of Cas’s cock in his ass without the burning pain. Felt him when he slowly eased back in. 

It wasn’t the rough fucking Dean had in his mind, but it was perfect. Slowly pulling almost all the way out, and then back in. Lazily making love to Dean like they didn’t have a care in the world. And they didn’t, nothing but this mattered. Dean didn’t care if the whole motel started to rumble, threatening to crumble down on them. 

He would be here, feeling everything. 

The way Cas made loved to him like he mattered. 

The way Cas placed the softest kisses on his jaw and trailed those sweet lips down his neck. 

Dean exposed his neck, letting the alpha have his fill. His arms found their way around his neck. The feathers were softer, tickling his fingers. 

Dean had never felt more full and more loved in his entire life than he did at this moment. 

His breath began to hitch; he felt the need to do more for Cas, but the only thing he could do was thrust back. Meet Cas’s movements. Slowly, their pace began to pick up. He could feel the pressure building in his gut, and he knew he wouldn’t make it much longer. As if sensing it, which maybe he could because this bond thing was forming stronger by the second, Cas picked up speed. Thrusting into Dean like he was trying to draw out his organism. 

Dean’s back arched as he cried out, cumming over Cas. It wasn’t long before Cas let out a shout, knot popping passed Dean’s rim, locking them together. They both took a moment to breathe, let the stars clear out from their vision. 

“Fuck…” Dean sighed. “I feel amazing.” 

“I do as well.” Cas agreed, an easy smile on his face as his wings blinked out of this reality.  

Cas maneuvered them so they were resting on their sides. He held Dean like he was the most precious thing in the world. 

“Cas?” Dean asked, his voice coming out drowsy. Cas hummed in place of a reply. “When your knot swells down, wanna go again?” 

Cas ducked his face into the crook of Dean’s neck, laughing into it. Dean grinned, trying to hold back on the giggle that threatened to escape because the alpha was tickling him. Dean was a man; he did not giggle, but he could feel giddy like he was experiencing his first crush. 

No one had to know that. 

Notes:

See? I don't have to be mean 🤣

Chapter 21: The Deal

Dean felt pretty damn nice. Straddling Cas with a knot up his ass. Cas looked pretty blissed out of his mind under him. Dean rocked his hips, loving the way Cas quivered, a whine escaping his lips. 

“You’re so mean.” Cas said without any heat behind it. 

Dean smiled at him. “But I love hearing those noises you make.” 

Cas cocked a brow. “Do I have to punish you?” 

“Maybe another time.” Dean patted Cas’s thigh. Slipping off his cock, the second his knot deflated. “I need to wash up and make sure Sammy didn’t get eaten or crushed by a piano or something. Mind zapping some more energy into me so I can wash up?” Cas leaned forward, pressing his fingers onto Dean’s head and refilling him with energy that no cup of coffee could ever do. “Thanks. Wanna shower with me?” 

Cas opened his mouth, but quickly shut it. He took three beats to think about it. “Yes.” 

“Aww…” Dean patted his cheek. “You’re getting the hang of having a human mate.” 

Cas smiled at him and Dean helped him out of the bed. After their shower, that ended up being longer because well… They were having trouble keeping their hands off each other. Dean dried off and got dressed while Cas mojoed himself ready. 

“Should I talk to your brother? Do you think that will help?” Cas asked. 

“Nah.” Dean waved his hand dismissively. “Let me handle him first. Let’s get him used to the idea of being here and then you, me, and Sammy can sit down. Have a damn chick flick moment, but with beer.” 

“I understand.” 

“Will you come back tonight? Maybe we can spend tonight together?” Dean asked. 

“I’d like that.” Cas replied. He kissed Dean, and then he was gone. 

When Dean stepped out of the motel, he thought he’d have to bug Gabe to figure out where Sam was. However, Dean found him immediately. Sam was sitting cross-legged on the hood of his car, glaring up at the Mystery Spott Inn sign. Dean walked over and as he hopped up to sit next to Sam, his brother didn’t tear his eyes away from the sign. 

“How long did it take you to give up?” He asked. 

“When you let the whole motel know you were getting railed.” Sam’s face twisted with disgust. “I have sounds burned into my brain I’ll never get out.” 

“You can’t say I didn’t warn ya.” Dean laughed. 

“Look, can you either be quiet or go away? I’m trying to concentrate.” 

Dean raised a brow. “Doing what? Having a staring competition with the sign? I hate to tell you, but it’s gonna win.” 

“I got in here by focusing. I can get us out doing the same.” 

Dean sighed. “Dude, the only reason you got in here was because Lucifer is your soulmate.” 

“No, there has to be a way out.” Sam stressed. “I mean, I dreamed about this place twice. I found this place because… I don’t know! But there was something in me that led me to the right spot. You can think I’m crazy, but there’s something in me that got me here, I can use it to get us out.” 

“Dude, how did you even dream of this place?” 

Sam finally faced him, a deep frown on his face. “I don’t know.” 

🍭🍨🍩

John was a shell of himself. When he wasn’t out there, looking for Dean, dealing with the police, he was here. Wandering around like a ghost with a bottle in his hand. He blamed himself; Mary could feel it deep in her soul. John believed this was all on him. He thought he was the one who pushed Dean out the door. It wasn’t his fault; Dean would’ve left, no matter what she or John thought.  It wasn’t on him, or her, or Dean. It was whoever dared to lay their hands on Dean. 

But Mary was going to fix that. 

Three days with no results had been too long and she should’ve done this sooner. 

She felt horrible for not doing it sooner, but she had hoped… 

No, this was on her. She should have faced her past sooner, but she was going to make things right.

While John was passed out, Mary snuck out of the house. She made sure she had everything she needed before starting up her truck and pulling out. Her heart hammered in his chest as she drove. She did her best to shove the fear aside. She had to be brave for Dean. 

Mary drove through town, looking for the perfect spot to set up. It was past three in the morning, and there were still a few people out and about. Too many eyes for what she needed to do. She drove deeper until she was out of town and on the back roads. The town’s lights were so far behind her, they looked like specks. There were no other cars on the road. No eyes to see what she was about to do. Mary leaned over, grabbing her flashlight and bag. 

She hiked through the woods, flashing her light, looking for a clear spot. 

She walked for about half an hour until she found a good enough place to set up. 

Mary dropped to her knees and pulled the strap of her bag from her shoulder. Everything else came back naturally, like riding a bike. She opened up her journal, just to be sure she was doing everything exactly as it needed to be done.

But she didn’t need it. 

She worked on autopilot, drawing the sigil exactly how it was meant to be, and placed the candles where they were meant to go. She opened the jar, and everything she needed was already crushed up from last time. She poured it into an offering bowl that sat in the center. The match hissed when she struck it against the box. She dropped it into the bowl before the flame could die out. 

It was quick; the powder in the bowl gave life to the fire. 

Mary looked around, waiting. 

Her senses were on hyper alert, but all she heard were the sounds of nature and the smell of musk from wet leaves. 

“Come on… Come on…” Mary muttered as she looked around. 

It slammed into her nose, the smell of sulfur, soot, and copper, right behind her. Mary took a deep breath before standing up and slowly turning around. 

Yellow eyes shone in the dark and the glow of the fire illuminated his too-toothy smile. Though she hadn’t seen him in two decades, he looked exactly how she remembered him. Wrinkles showing off age that she suspected was much older than it appeared to be. Short, sandy blonde hair that was graying. He appeared exactly as he did then. As he did before she was a mated omega. 

“Mary Winchester.” He dragged her name out. Like he couldn’t get enough from saying it. 

“Azazel.” She greeted. 

“To what do I owe the pleasure?” He asked, taking a step further. Mary stood her ground and held her head high. “You haven’t checked in own little ol’ me in years and you’ve already cashed in your favors. It’s been what?” Azazel tapped his chin. “Twenty-two years and… Five–no, six months… No, not right either… But that doesn’t matter. It’s been a while since the last time you called for me. How is Sammy? Good as new? Living a full, healthy life?” 

“This is about my other son, Dean.” Mary said, cutting to the chase. She already wasted enough time. “Someone took him. Someone kidnapped my baby, and I need your help.” 

“Ooooh.” Azazel tsked. “I’m afraid you’re all out of favors. I can’t throw you anymore feebies.” 

“What do you want? My soul?” Mary spat. “It’s yours! Just save my son, bring him back home.”

“Now, now. Do you think I could do that to you? The human who gave me a second chance?” Azazel asked, taking another step forward. “No, I would never separate you from your true mate. Leave John all lonely up in Heaven while your soul’s stuck on the rack until the end of time. I couldn’t do that to my favorite human.” 

“Then name your price.” She demanded. 

“Well…” Azazel dragged out as he came to stand next to her. He watched the flames burn. “It just so happens I know where your son is.” 

Mary felt hope fill her chest. “You do?” 

“Yes, Hell’s been buzzing with the news.” 

The hope was snuffed out as a terror Mary never felt in her life consumed her. “Dean’s in Hell?!” 

“No.” Azazel answered, but Mary didn’t feel any relief. 

Why would Hell be talking about her son? 

How would they know where he is if Dean wasn’t there? 

“But!” Azazel went on. “He’s not in this world anymore. Not dead either. He’s somewhere in between.” 

“Can you get him out?” She asked. 

“I might.” 

“Can you get him out or not?!” She snapped. 

Azazel slowly turned his gaze on her, unbothered by the tone she was taking with him. “I won’t lie to you. It’s risky. I could lose my life, but I’m willing to try.” He sighed. “First, let’s talk price. What I have to do won’t be easy. You’re asking me to risk my life, so the price is gonna be steep.” 

“Just tell me.” She growled. “I’ll pay it.” 

Azazel’s sleezy grin grew. “Your son has found his true mate where he’s at.” 

“True mate?” Mary asked. “But if he’s not in this world anymore, then…” 

“Don’t you worry your pretty little head about that. Dean and his true mate won’t be separated if I’m successful. Dean will be back; he can live his life with his alpha here. They can mate and have pups. More importantly, they will live a long and happy life. But.” Azazel held out his finger. “If I pull this off, I want Dean’s firstborn pup.” 

“You want what?” Mary asked, her voice barely a whisper. 

“What?” Azazel shrugged. “Dean and his alpha can make more. All I want is one.” 

“How could you ask this of me?! That’s not my place–I can’t promise that!” Mary cried. 

“Sure, you can.” He winked at her. “I’ll even give Dean four months with his pup before I come to collect. All you have to do is play your part. When it’s time, go visit Dean and his true mate. Distract them while I take what’s mine, and you can have your son back. It’s either that, or accepting you’ll never see your eldest son again. The question is, how important is he to you?” 

Mary felt like she would be sick. She felt like someone had torn into her stomach and was twisting her guts from the inside. Her heart broke for Dean, just imagining the possible day he realized his pup was gone. 

But…

What else could she do? 

One pup for her son’s life? 

“Fine…” She growled. “You have a deal.” 

“Well, Winchester.” Aazel flashed her a smile. One that made her feel dirty. The kind of filth she could never wash off. “Let’s get your son back.” 

 

Notes:

Lol sooo this chapter took way longer than I expected to get here. My ideas are always shorter in my mind 🤣

Chapter 22: The Calm Before Hell Fire

“Okay, let’s get you hooked up with a room now.” Dean said as he slid off the car. 

“Why?” Sam’s face twisted. “Can’t I just stay in yours?” 

Dean shrugged. “Only if you’re a freak who wants to see his brother get it on with an angel.” 

“Gross!” 

“Then come on.” 

Sam huffed, but at least he gave up on trying to Jedi mind-trick his way out of here. Sam grumbled something under his breath, but Dean chose to ignore it. He threw his arm over Sammy’s shoulder, which made his brother grumble even more. 

“Look on the bright side, Sammy!” Dean grinned. “Now we have all the time in the world to bound again.” 

“Dean, we’re not gonna stay here.” 

“Now, come on, Sammy!” 

“It’s Sam.” Sammy groaned.

“Look, how about you take shifts? You try to find a way to get out of here for about, uh…” Dean shrugged. “Three hours a day? Then we can get to know each other again.” 

Sam didn’t say anything. Not like Dean couldn’t tell he didn’t want to. The guy could argue until his face was blue. He would’ve made a great lawyer. Then again, Dean didn’t see why he still couldn’t. Give the guy books about angels and let him learn all about their weird laws. Someone would end up hiring him. If they didn’t try to take it into their own hands like they tended to do. He wouldn’t bring it up now, Sam would explode on him. Dean would just wait until his brother got used to this place. 

Dean opened the door and the second he and Sam stepped in, confetti rained down on them. 

“Congrats on getting laid!” Gabe, Lucifer, Anael, the crew, and two other angels Dean didn’t recognize shouted. 

Cas stood next to his brother, looking defeated. “I tried to stop him.” 

Dean huffed out air, blowing away confetti from his nose. “So, this is just the kind of thing you’ll get used to.” 

“I doubt it.” Sam grumbled. 

“Gabe? Think you could hook Sammy up with a room?” Dean asked. 

“Of course!” Gabe grinned as he looked over at Sam. “Will this be cash or credit?” 

“Gaaaaabe.” Dean narrowed his eyes at the shorter omega. 

Gabe shrugged. “Can’t blame a guy for trying.” 

Gabe strolled over to the keys. Dean looked over at Cas and shot him a I want something smile. “Mind healing my brother’s broken nose? He walked into a brick wall.” 

“Of course.” Cas replied. 

“Like hell you will!” Sam snarled at him before Cas could take a full step. 

Sam walked over to the counter. Gabe slid him a key, but he ignored it. “If I find a way to kill you, I’m going to do it. This place can’t exist without you.” Dean watched as Sam frowned when Gabe, Lucifer, and Anael broke out into laughter. “What?” 

“Good luck with that, kid.” Gabe smirked, leaning on his elbow. “Let’s say that you do find a way to kill me. It wouldn’t change a thing. This place has been running for too long. It’s solid now.” 

Sam’s brows furrowed. “What?” 

“It means, it’ll go on without me.” Gabe answered and now Dean was even more thankful he didn’t thrust an angel blade into his back. “There are only two things that would happen if I get offed. My poor baby bro is gonna have to find another archangel to run this place, or he and my crew are out of jobs.” 

“Before this place became solid, Gabe did try to deconstruct it. Long enough to get humans out.” Cas piped in. “But… It had the same effect as trying to pull them out.” 

Sam gasped, and he spun on his heels. He faced Cas with wide eyes. “What if you and Dean broke your bond?!” 

“Like hell we will!” Dean snapped. 

“No, but hear me out! If you guys break it, maybe it’ll free Dean! Because then you guys won’t be true mates anymore!” 

“Saaaaam?” Gabe slowly asked. Grabbing Sam’s attention again. “You and Luci rejected each other and…” He gestured around them. Sam’s shoulders slumped, and he took his key without another word. “Oh, Dean! There’s something I gotta talk to you about.” 

“Okay.” He replied as he walked over. 

“Soooooo…” Gabe drummed his fingers on the counter. “Here’s the deal. Mikey–” 

“Hey!” Sam cried and Dean quickly turned around to find Lucifer next to his brother. 

“Oh, stop being a baby.” Lucifer said, almost boredly. “You can’t walk around with a broken, bloodied nose like an idiot. 

Sam touched his healed nose while Anael crossed her arms. “If you didn’t want to be healed, you shouldn’t be so stupid and easily broken.” 

“Hey!” Dean whined. “I’m one of those easily broken humans.” 

“Sorry.” Anael smiled sweetly at him as Lucifer walked back over to her. Snaking his arm around her waist and pulling her close. “I like you. I don’t think you're stupid.” 

Dean gave her an awkward smile because he still didn’t know her all that well. 

“True mates who rejected each other.” Another redhead angel said, like she couldn’t believe it. 

“It’s… Sooooo intriguing.” The blonde angel said, with a little too much enthusiasm. 

“Anyhoo.” Gabe said, getting Dean’s attention again. “Mikey kind of told our parents about you aaaaaand they wanna meet you!” 

“What?” Dean blurted. 

“They’ll be here in a couple of hours for dinner.” Gabe went on. 

“You’re not invited.” Lucifer said, looking over at Sam. “No offense or anything, but I would die from embarrassment if my folks found out my true mate was… You…” He said with a hint of disgust in his voice. “So, they’re not going to find out.” 

“And you can’t provide him pups, like I did.” Anael smuggly told him. 

“Like hell I’m leaving Dean alone with a bunch of freaks like–” Sam started. 

“Hey!” Dean cried, cutting him off. “I’ve been with these guys for ten months. I trust them with my life!” Dean turned to Lucifer before Sam could argue with him. “You have pups?!” 

Lucifer and Anael smiled proudly. “We have two!” Lucifer told him. “Our eldest is Lilith.” 

“And we only had Jacariel twenty years ago.” Aneal said. “He’s soooo young.” 

“We call him Jack for short.” Lucifer said before sharing a lovey-dovey look with Anael. “We tortured countless Jacks in Hell, and we both really liked the name.” 

“Huh, that’s cool. I’m happy for you both.” Dean told them and they gave him thankful smiles. 

Truth be told, Dean was freaking out on the inside. It wasn’t like he thought about being a parent. He thought that would be a problem for later Dean to figure out. But what if later Dean decided he wanted pups? How would that work? His pups would be half-human and half-angel. Would they have freaky angel powers too?  Or would they be boring like humans? Oh god, how would they age? 

Dean decided it was not best to worry about it. It would probably be forever before he decided to have pups, if he ended up wanting them. 

Now Dean had to worry about the upcoming family dinner. 

“Okay, guys, get back to work! Or do something, anything, I don’t care.” Gabe said. 

Malachi and his crew returned to the cafeteria. The two angels Dean hadn’t met yet tried to bug Sammy with questions, but he barked at them to leave him alone as he quickly retreated from the lobby. Dean walked over to Cas, Lucifer, and Anael. 

“Sooooo… Your parents?” A nervous laugh escaped his lips. “Uh, what do I need to know about them?” 

“Oh, Chuck is just the sweetest.” Anael told him and Dean raised a brow. 

“There’s an angel named Chuck?”

“He’s like Lucifer.” Gabe laughed as he walked over to them. He snapped his fingers, and the world’s biggest chocolate bar appeared in his hands. “He changed it after meeting a human with the name. Just fell in love with it.” Gabe took a big bite of his candy, but he didn’t wait to chew it before he started talking again. “But Anael’s right, pop’s a teddy bear.” 

“It’s mom you gotta worry about.” Lucifer warned and Dean frowned. 

“Oh god… Why?” He dared to ask. 

“Mom is…” Cas tried, but it seemed he was lost for words. 

“Well, mom’s an alpha.” Gabe said. 

“And an archangel.” Cas added. 

“And the bitch is crazy.” Lucifer bluntly said. “Like, I love her, but when she’s happy, things are great! But when she’s upset?” He let out a low whistle and shook his head. “It makes me and Michael look like fluffy bunnies.” 

“Oh god…” Dean felt his knuckles start to buckle. “I think I’m going to be sick.” 

“It’s okay, Dean!” Cas quickly tried to reassure, but it wasn’t working. He grabbed Dean’s arm to help steady him. “Mom’s going to love you!” 

Lucifer snorted. “That’s what we told Billie.” 

“Who?” Dean’s quivering voice asked. 

“Michael’s mate.” Anael answered. “Poor, poor thing. Naomi wanted to operate on her brain after one meeting.” 

“Oh god!” Dean cried. “I need air!” 

“Okay!” Cas helped Dean towards the door. 

🍭🍨🍩

Gabriel watched the door like a hawk. He didn’t dare move until it was closed completely and Cassie and Dean–O were out of sight. Finally, he turned to Lucifer and Anael. “Thanks for helping me out with getting those two away.” 

“No problem.” Lucifer said and Anael smirked. 

“It was so much fun.” 

“So?” Gabriel mentally crossed his fingers and toes. “You’re really gonna help me and Mikey do this?” 

“Sure.” Luci replied. “Anael has been wanting a vacation for a while. I figured she could do her thing while we work. You do know, it’s not going to be easy. I mean, making an exit and an entrance for humans? That’s gonna take a while.” 

“That’s fine!” Gabriel took another bite from his treat. “I mean, it’s not like Dean-O or Samalamabam can go anywhere, right?” 

 

Notes:

Lol last chapter for tonight (I swear). I know it's shorter, but think of it as a little breather before a certain chapter 😉

 

Annnnd holy crap! I think we're getting close to the end. It can't be that far away!

Chapter 23: Family Reunion Take Three

“Oh god…” Dean said between his meltdowns. “Oh shit… I… Oh fuck… I can’t do this.” 

“My mother isn’t that bad.” Cas said as he massaged Dean’s shoulders. Doing his damn best to calm him down. “Michael and Gabriel were just over exaggerating.” 

Dean was sitting on the grass, across from the motel. Cas was behind him, trying to pull out every alpha trick to calm him down. Reassuring touches, words, and calming pheremones, but it wasn’t working. 

“I… I never met anyone's parents!” Dean cried. “Not Amber’s, Cassie’s, not Lee’s! Not even Lisa’s and I was with her the longest. Like, for a whole damn year!” 

“Dean!” Sammy called out. He looked up to see his brother jogging up to him. “What’s wrong? Are you okay? What did they do to you?” 

“Gabriel and Michael were being jerks.” Cas explained. “They got Dean all worked up about my mother.” 

“Does your mother actually drill people in the head?” Dean snapped. 

“Yes!” Cas answered. “But she only does reprogramming when it’s absolutely necessary!” 

“Oh god…” Dean groaned, his head falling into his hands. 

“Dean, she would never reprogram you.” Cas assured. “She would never reprogram our mates. She didn’t try to reprogram Billie!” 

“The first time I’m meeting someone’s parents and they’re not even human…” Dean mumbled. 

“You don’t have to do this, Dean.” Sam told him. 

“We could try to hide.” Cas agreed. “I mean, my mother will hunt us down, but we can still try to hide.” 

“No…” Dean shook his head. “I can do this. I mean, if we’re gonna be serious and all, then this has to happen.” He finally lifted his head and looked at Sam. “So, did you get away from angel questioning?” 

“I need your key.” Sam said instead of answering. 

Dean frowned and his brows knitted together. “Why?” 

Sam’s shoulders slumped and he gave Dean the most pitiful look he had ever seen. “Clowns…” 

“What?” 

“My room…” Sam whined. “The wallpaper is nothing but a bunch of clowns. The carpet is clowns, the dresser is clown-shaped and the couch has a clown face. My bed, Dean… The headboard is the clown’s face and the bed is its body.” 

“Goddamn it, Gabe…” Dean grumbled, pinching the bridge of his nose. He huffed, dug into his pocket, and tossed his key to Sam. “I’ll fix this. You can stay in my room while I have dinner with Cas’s parents, but then, when I get your room fix, you gotta go back.” 

Sam sat down next to him. “So? You’re really gonna go through with this?” 

“As I said, I’m serious about Cas.” Dean said and he could feel a jolt of joy coming from his mate. “Cas? Have you ever met someone’s parents before?” 

“Once.” He replied. 

“How did it go?” Dean asked. “And be honest with me.” 

“Awkward… I had to slaughter a goat.” He said and Dean frowned. Was that really an angel thing? Was he gonna have to slaughter Gruff the Goat? “I was in a really serious relationship with a demon once.” Cas explained. 

“Demons?!” Sam cried. 

Huh? An angel and a demon? Dean didn’t see that. He looked over to Sam. “Hey, you met chicks’ parents before, right?” 

“Yeah, a few times.” Sam answered. 

“I’m a newbie with this. Tell me what I need to know.” 

“Well…” Sam leaned back as he thought about it. “Don’t talk with your mouth full of food. If they ask you something while you’re chewing, finish your food before speaking.” 

“Okay.” Dean gestured his hand, but he didn’t know why he was doing that. “I can do that. What else?” 

Sam sighed. “I can’t believe I’m going along with this… Ask them questions. How they met, what they do, that kind of thing. Listen to what they ask you and just follow up along with questions of your own.” 

“Oh god!” Dean cried as it hit him. “I don’t have a job here! I’ve just been a loser doing nothing but fucking around!” 

“Dean, that’s not true.” Cas protested. “You taught our staff how to use a yo-yo.” 

Dean’s head went back into his hands. His fingers dug into his scalp. He wouldn’t make it through this dinner. 

🍭🍨🍩

Dean paced around nervously in the lobby. He worried about everything. He wasn’t the kind of guy someone would introduce to their parents and there was a damn good reason for it. He was… Well, he was Dean fucking Winchester, the bad egg. The one no one took seriously. The one that was fun to have around until things got serious. Dean didn’t meet parents, but these guys were freaking angels! They didn’t know a standard human from a bad one. Poor fucking Cas didn’t understand that Dean was not the example of a human he wanted his parents to meet. 

But it was already done. His folks were on their way. 

Michael and Billie had already arrived. All the siblings were together. Lucifer with Anael and Gabe with a smoking hot blonde woman who wasn’t even real! He conjured her up for shits and giggles. 

They all watched Dean freak out. 

Was his hair styled neatly enough for Cas’s parents? 

Was the blue over shirt with a plain black t-shirt and jeans that didn’t have holes in them too casual? 

Was he gonna make a complete fool out of himself? 

“Humans are so weird.” Billie commented as she watched him pace around. 

“Now, now.” Gabe said with the not-real woman hanging over him. “You were pretty nervous when you met our folks.” 

“I didn’t show it.” Billie shot back. 

Dean bit his tongue and kept his thoughts about angels not showing emotions as a them problem. He didn’t want to start on the wrong foot before their parents arrived. 

“You’ll be fine.” Cas tried for the thousandth time. “Angels appear to be very interested in humans. Just tell them all the ways your kind can easily die. That seemed to be a very big hit for our kind.” 

“Please don’t.” Billie groaned. “I don’t want to discuss work outside of work.” 

Dean stopped pacing. “What?” 

“Billie’s a reaper.” Michael explained and Dean realized how long he had been here because that actually answered everything. 

“Oh!” Gabe’s fake girlfriend snapped her fingers. “Talk about how messy human birth is! That was interesting.” 

And it hurt Dean’s head that he knew the only reason this illusion knew that was because she was an extension of Gabe. It made fucking sense to him now. Good thing Dean was trapped here forever because if he ever got back to earth, he wasn’t sure he could handle normal again.

“I’m not going to talk about that over dinner.” Dean grumbled. 

Cas reached out his hand and Dean took it. Feeling some small comfort when the alpha gave it a little squeeze. 

“Just be yourself.” Cas smiled. “That’s why Gabe and I, and the staff like you.” 

Dean took a deep breath and nodded. He was charming, Cas’s parents would like him. They were just angels, no big deal. He just had to stop giving them power of gods because they’re Cas’s parents, that was all.

Dean had this. 

He flinched back when a woman in a power business suit and short gray hair, and a man dressed in a sweater vest, appeared out of nowhere. The woman looked around, a disdain look on her face.  

“I see this place is just as messy as ever.” She said, and Dean’s heart dropped down to his asshole. 

He did not have this. 

“Good to see you too, mom.” Gabe said. 

She looked at Gabe. She didn’t frown, but she didn’t smile either. “I see you still expect us to show up in cars, for what reason, I still have failed to comprehend.” 

“I like it!” Said the man next to her, an omega with a huge smile. “I like the idea of cars! They’re so fascinating! All the kinds of vehicles humans create to make up for not having wings.” 

“Gabriel.” The woman said. “Get rid of her. I will not have a sex doll at the table.” 

Gabe huffed, but he snapped his fingers and the woman disappeared. “You’re no fun.” 

She turned her head to Dean, and her cold gaze made him shiver. “So, you’re the human?” 

“Our son with a human true mate! It’s so interesting!” The man said. “The hand-holding thing? Is that something you humans do often with mates?” 

Dean nodded his head because he was too nervous to talk. 

Cas cleared his throat. “Mother, father, this is my mate, Dean. Dean, these are my parents, Naomi and Chuck.” 

“Nice to meet you.” Dean managed to get out. He at least knew he needed to say that. 

“Likewise.” Naomi said. 

Chuck stepped forward, grabbed Dean’s hand, and gave him such a powerful shake that it shook his body. “It’s great to meet you too!” He stepped back with the same huge smile on his face. “The meeting over dinner was my idea! I knew that’s how humans did it.” 

Dean returned a smile because he didn’t know what to say. 

“Let’s do this.” Naomi said. “Gabriel? Are you going to be a decent host and show us to where we’ll be feasting?” 

Gabe’s smile twitched. Dean didn’t have to smell his scent to know the other omega was doing his best to keep his cool. “This way.” 

Gabriel led them to the backroom. When he stepped through, it was so unlike what Dean expected from the archangel. It was grand and so far out of Gabe’s taste, it had to be for Naomi more than anyone else. The walls were white with gold trimming. The floors were marble, and the table was so expensive looking, Dean could bet his life that if something like that were to sell in the human world, all the rent he’d ever paid wouldn’t cover the cost. The table was filled with food. From turkey to a juicy roast to burgers, and every human side dish Dean could imagine. 

Naomi and Chuck took a seat at the head of the table. Cas sat next to Chuck, Dean next to Cas, and Gabe next to him. Michael took a seat next to Naomi, with Billie by his side, and Anael between her and Lucifer. 

“Dean,” Naomi said, scaring the shit out of him. “I heard that humans like to pray before consuming food. Why don’t you lead us in prayer?” 

“Actually,” Cas spoke up. “Dean isn’t a religious human.” 

“Very well.” Naomi replied. “I find prayer a waste of time anyhow.” 

Dean had weirdly never felt more validated in his life, and it was coming from a literal angel. 

Things were awkward for a while. Everyone grabbed something they wanted to eat. Well, Gabe, Lucifer, Aneal, Chuck, Cas, and Dean did. Michael, Billie, and Naomi looked at the food like it would attack them. 

“So… How did you and Chuck meet?” Dean asked, fingering it was the best way to get this conversation rolling. 

“We met during the Bonding Solstice,” Chuck answered, leaning in closer. “After a nine-day celebration of creation, single alphas and omegas gathered together in Elysian. The alphas will try to woo omegas with gifts. I had many suitors after me, but Naomi caught my attention.” He said with a twinkle in his eye. “She presented me with a jar of stardust and the rest was history.” 

“I had pinned for him for a while,” Naomi said, and to Dean’s shock, she had a small smile on her face. “He was an excellent storyteller amongst our people. I wished to have him as my mate, but he had so many alphas’ eyes on him. I still sometimes wonder how I ended up winning him.” 

“How could she not? She’s kind and gentle. She also has an amazing sense of humor.” Chuck told him and Dean bit down a laugh. He hadn’t seen that side of her. 

“So, did you all do the mating ritual thing?” Dean asked. 

“You guys didn’t?” Billie asked with her brows pressed together. 

“We did it the human way.” Cas answered. 

“What exactly is the human way?” Billie pressed. 

Dean shrugged. “We just got to know each other over time. Let our relationship go from not knowing each other to friends, and then to partners.” 

“Huh.” Billie said, but she didn’t sound like she understood it at all. 

“So, Dean.” Chuck butted in. “Back on earth, what did you do?” 

“Oh umm…” Dean let out a nervous chuckle, rubbing the back of his neck. “I uh… Worked on cars.” 

Chuck’s eyes lit up with interest. “So you were responsible for maintaining humans’ biggest mode of transportation?” 

“Yeah?” 

Naomi hummed. “Sounds like a noble job.” 

It clicked for him right there that he’d be fine. They might know some things about humans, but they didn’t know the smaller details. What humans considered lowly jobs. Dean could say anything and they would probably think it was the greatest thing since sliced bread. He felt himself relax as dinner went on. 

He already knew that Lucifer and Anael were the rulers of Hell. That Michael ran Heaven and Billie reaped souls. Chuck was a storyteller, something that brought the angels entertainment, and Naomi was a form of therapist. Well, an angel’s version of it, anyhow. She would solve problems angels were having by drilling into their heads. That also took care of their justice system. Someone robbed, raped, or murdered, she would correct the part of the brain that made them do it, and they would be sent to their system of prison to serve out their time, according to what they thought was suitable. 

For Dean, he got to talk about his family, what humans did for fun, and Chuck was the one who really listened in with the most interest. Chuck and Cas, but Cas was biased. Dean could tell him anything and the guy would think Dean was the most interesting person in all the dimensions. 

The dinner was over before Dean knew it and he had said goodbye to Cas’s family for the night. But not after he had Gabe fix Sam’s room because damn it, he and Cas deserve time alone together. 

“Wasn’t so bad, was it?” Cas teasingly asked him as they walked together hand in hand. 

“It wasn’t.” Dean chuckled. “Who would’ve thought? I think it would have been more–” Dean stopped, finding himself sniffing the air with Cas. “What’s that smell?” It kind of smelled like Lucifer, without the alpha scent, but the guy was still inside the lobby. 

“Hello, Clarence.” Someone said from behind them. 

They both turned and there was a woman there. With long brown hair, a leather coat, and tight jeans that she had her hands shoved into the pockets of. 

“Who–” Dean started to ask before Cas gasped. 

“Meg?” 

 

Chapter 24: Steve's Going To London

“It’s been a while, Unicorn.” This Meg chick said as she took a few steps closer. 

“Clarence?” Dean asked. “Unicorn? Okay, lady, who the hell are you?” 

“Aww, you didn’t tell him about me?” Meg feigned hurt, but she kept a stupid, smug smile on her face. 

“I might’ve mentioned you here or there.” Cas slowly said. “But I never brought up any names.” 

Dean gasped and pointed at her. “You’re the demon!”

She snorted. “And who said all humans were idiots?” 

“What are you doing here, Meg?” Cas asked. 

“What? I’m not welcome here after we broke up?” She pouted. “Come on, Clarence, that was over three hundred years ago.” 

“Demons aren’t usually allowed here. It’s a strictly angel motel. Too much drama with demons… And giants… and the fairies. We made an exception for Meg.” Cas explained to Dean. Like that was the part here cared about. Cas’s fucking ex was here and there was something about her he didn’t like. Dean just couldn’t put his finger on it, except she was a fucking demon. “Meg?” Cas asked, more sternly this time. “What are you doing here?” 

She shrugged before her dark eyes flickered to Dean. “Hell’s been buzzing about the new lovebirds. Lucifer’s been going on about his baby brother finding a true mate, a human true mate. I just wanted to swing by, see the rumor for myself.” Dean didn't like the way she smiled at Cas. “I wanted to give you my best wishes. Despite what happened between us, I just want the best for you, Clarence.” 

“What happened between you two?” Dean asked before he could think better of it. It shouldn’t matter; they were over, and now he had Cas, but the question was already out. Cas hung his head and Meg chuckled. 

“Before you came along, he asked me to be his mate.” Meg answered, and Dean had a feeling she wanted to hurt him with the news. It didn’t, though. It was before his time, three fucking hundreds years ago. “But I said no. Clarence was fun, for an angel. Great damn lover, but he couldn’t fully embrace the demon lifestyle.” She shrugged. 

Thank god for that. Dean thought. 

“Look. If you want me to go, I will. I just… I’ve spent centuries feeling guilty for how we left things. I mean it, Clarence. I’m happy for you. I just want to get to know your mate. Want to thank the man who’s made my Unicorn so happy.” Meg said, giving Cas those puppy-dog eyes. 

“Maybe later.” Cas said. “Dean’s just met my whole family.” 

“I can’t stay for the night.” Meg countered. “If I ask for a room, your brother will smite me. Clarence, just ten minutes. Then I’m out of here.” 

Cas’s mouth twisted and he looked at Dean, like he would have the answer. Dean had one, he wanted her to get her skanky ass back to Hell. He didn’t trust her, not one damn bit. She had fake written all over her face, oozing out of her scent, and she probably shat it too. 

But if she wanted to spend ten minutes insulting Dean about being a human and trying to make him jealous, best to get it over with. Let her get it out of her system now, and then they wouldn’t have to deal with her ever again. 

“Fine.” Dean growled. 

They walked over to his bedroom and Dean had to bang on his own damn door. It wasn’t long before Sammy answered. The second he opened up the door, his brother’s face twisted as he sniffed. 

“Room’s fixed. Mind leaving me alone with Cas so we can chat with the demon?” Dean thumbed at Meg. She smiled and waved at Sam as his eyes grew wide. 

“I’m not leaving you alone with a demon, Dean!” Sam cried. 

“It’s cool.” Dean sighed. “She’s Cas’s demon ex.” 

“Nice to meet you.” She told him. 

Sam groaned and stormed out of the room. But not before shouting, “I hate this world!” 

Dean closed the door behind them. “So what do you really want?” 

“Like I said.” She took a seat on his bed like she owned the damn room. “I just wanna get to know the human omega that has made my Unicorn so happy.” 

“He’s not your damn unicorn anymore.” Dean growled, but it only made Meg’s grin grow wider. 

She looked up at Cas. “He’s feisty. You always liked them a little feisty, didn’t you?” 

“Okay, new house rule.” Dean snapped. “No talking about me like I’m not here.” 

Meg held up her hands like she meant no harm. “Sorry!” 

“Answer Dean’s first question.” Cas demanded as he came to stand next to him. “I highly doubt you’re here just to be nice.” 

“Clarence…” Meg dramatically placed her hand over her heart. “That hurts. I know things didn’t work out between us, but there was a time I was your person.” 

Dean crossed his arms. “Okay, so then say whatever you've got to say. Ask whatever question you gotta ask.” 

“You’re just so adorable.” Meg told him before she turned her attention to Cas. “Tell me, Clarence, is having a human mate like having a pet? Gotta feed it, walk it, and fix its boo boos when it hurts itself?” 

Dean smirked at her. If she thought this would get to him, she had another thing coming. 

He just couldn’t say the same thing about Cas. 

“Get out!” He roared, pointing towards the door. 

“Oooh, Clarence, I can’t do that.” Meg casually said as she crossed her legs. 

“And why not?” Cas growled. 

She smirked at him. “Because I’m the distraction.” 

Cas frowned, his head tilted as his brows furrowed together. “What?” 

Dean flinched when his door opened. An older man with fucking yellow eyes and a younger man walked in, both reeking of hell. 

“Tom?” Cas asked. “Mr. Masters?” 

“Hello, Castiel.” The yellow-eyed man, Mr. Masters, greeted Cas with a smile that made Dean feel slimy. “Been a while, hasn’t it?” 

Tom closed the door, and it left Dean on edge. He wasn’t the only one. He could feel that Cas felt something was off too. Not hard to feel that way when there were three demons in his room. 

“What are you guys doing here?” Cas demanded. 

“Sorry, Castiel.” Tom said, opening up his shirt, revealing a sigil carved in his chest. 

Dean watched the color in Cas’s face drain. Heard him gasp before shouting, “No!” 

Before Cas could react or Dean could comprehend what the hell was going on, Tom slapped his chest. Dean shouted as he squeezed his eyes shut. All he could hear was a ringing as he rapidly blinked his eyes, even after the bright light vanished. 

When he finally regained his vision, Meg and Tom were spraypainting symbols on the wall that he didn’t understand. Mr. Masters was standing in the center of the room, chanting something in a language Dean didn’t know.  

His heart sank when he realized Cas wasn’t in the room. 

“Cas?!” Dean shouted, his heart slamming against his chest. “What the hell did you do to him?!” 

“Don’t worry.” Tom answered him. “Castiel is alright. I just sent him into a different dimension.” 

“You did what?!” Dean growled. “Why the fuck did you do that?!” 

“It’s not going to hold forever!” Meg shouted. 

“What is that?!” Dean tried to storm over to him, but his feet were frozen in place. “What the fuck?!” 

Then his room began to shake, and a hole was opening up in the floor. Outside, a bright light shone, and now the whole world seemed to be trembling. 

“We’re getting you home.” Mr. Masters said. 

“Home?” Dean asked, but he felt far from comfort. “Why did you have to get rid of Cas?! What about Sammy?!” 

“Sorry,” Mr. Masters held up one finger. “But the deal was only for you.” 

“Cas!” Dean cried. “Gabe! Somebody help me!” 

“Now,” Mr. Masters went on. “I hope you don’t carry any guilt in your heart. Hell’s not particularly gentle on humans to begin with, but those who carry guilt in their hearts won’t have an easy transport.” 

“Cas! Caaaaaaaaaaaaaaas!” Dean shouted like he could help him. 

He could hear the building falling apart. Cracks were racing across the ceiling. 

“We have to go! Now!” Meg cried. 

“I’m not going anywhere with–” Dean shouted when Mr. Masters whipped his finger and sent him flying. 

The hole sucked him in, and the last thing he remembered was calling out for Cas before everything went dark. 

 

Notes:

I would say I'm so very sorry, buuuuut I'm not 💙

Chapter 25: The War at Night

Don't need reason

Don't need rhyme

Ain't nothin' that I'd rather do

Goin' down

Party time

My friends are gonna be there too

I'm on the highway to hell

On the highway to hell

Highway to hell

I'm on the highway to hell

 

Dean drummed his hands on the steering wheel. Bobbing his head to the music that was playing so loudly, his parents’ neighbors were opening up their doors to give him dirty looks. Dean just flashed them a smile and a little wave. They couldn’t bring him down. No, Dean was in too good a mood. 

He only slowed down so he could park in front of his childhood home. He had a pep in his step as he headed for the door. He even gave it three playful knocks. His mom answered the door with a huge smile on her face. But when she realized it was him and not Sammy, her smile slipped, and her eyes grew wide. Dean’s smile grew; she was so surprised to see him here. 

“Dean?” She carefully asked. “What are you doing here?” 

“What?” He shrugged. “Can’t I come to see my baby brother? I wanna know how his prom night went. I mean, I missed his pictures being made.” 

“He’s not back yet.” 

“Right on, Sammy!” Dean slipped past his mom and headed for the kitchen. 

“So um…” Mary pushed her hair back behind her ear as Dean scavenged the fridge. “How uh, are you and Lee holding up?” 

“Great!” Dean answered, holding a beer in his hand and closing the fridge with his elbow. “He’s so cool. He let me get on stage and sing.” A chuckle escaped his lips. “And no one could say anything about my bad singing ‘cause I’m dating the owner.” 

They weren’t dating, per se, but he wasn’t going to use “hooking up” in front of his mom. 

Mary hummed and nodded her head, but she had that look on her face. The one that said that Dean had done something to mess up, again. He didn't say anything, not yet. He twisted the cap off his beer and tossed it in the trash. He took a swig and let himself enjoy the taste before he dared ask what he did wrong this time. 

“What’s wrong?” 

“It’s just…” Mary rubbed the back of her neck. “You didn’t show up for work today. Your dad’s… Not happy.” 

Dean huffed and rolled his eyes. “Can’t a guy take a day off?” He shrugged as he walked to the living room, with Mary right behind him. “It’s Saturday for crying out loud.” 

“But you promised him you’d help fix Mr. Miller’s car.” She reminded him as she sat down on the armchair, not the couch. 

Dean felt a ping of guilt. He totally forgot about Mr. Miller and his car. 

But… 

“It was a Friday, and I wanted to hang out with Lee. Dad had to know I’d get waaaay too drunk if I was there. Besides, he had everything under control, right?” 

Mary’s frown deepened. “That’s not the point, Dean. You made a promise to be there.” 

“Look.” Dean waved his hand, as if he could wave this conversation away. “I’m twenty-one years old. Let me have fun while I can. I know you both like to pretend that you were always perfect, but I bet you both have wild stories when you were my age.” 

“I’m worried about you, Dean. I know that…” Mary trailed off, trying to find the best words she could. Trying not to throw in the last couple of years of Dean’s high school experience. “You were starting to become focused again, before Lee, and I’m just scared that–” 

“So Sam and Rachel, huh?” Dean blurted because, god, he couldn’t handle the I’m worried about you speech again. “I mean, how do you feel about that? Him taking a damn alpha to prom?” 

“I know you don’t have a problem with that.” Mary said, trying her damn best to keep calm. “John and I raised you better.” 

Dean held up his hands, trying to show he meant no harm. “I don’t!” He swore. “It’s just that… It’s Sam! The perfect straight-A student who got a full ride to Stanford! Mr. I’m going to live the most boring normal life. I just didn’t see the kid being into the same subgender when all he wants is the perfect life, that’s all.” 

“Well, he is.” Mary said matter-of-factly. “And I don’t want you teasing him about it anymore.” 

Dean shrugged. “Sure, whatever. Where’s dad anyway?” 

“He’s in the basement. He’s not going to be happy when he sees you.” 

“Yeah, but that’s why I need Sammy to get his ass here.” Dean laughed. “Dad can’t kill me in front of his favorite son.” 

“Dean.” Mary sighed. “For the last time, your dad doesn’t have a favorite child.” 

Dean hummed and decided to focus on his beer. They were both quiet; they had just heard the car door shut. They waited for the buffer to walk in through the door. Soon, Sammy was opening the door and letting his date walk in. Dean’s brows shot up. He didn’t know what kind of alpha would say yes to another alpha, but damn, she was hot. Ugly pink dress that almost looked white, but she was smoking. 

“Dean?” Sam asked. “What… What are you doing here?” 

“I wanted to see how your date went.” Dean’s smile grew with the way Rachel looked at him. The alpha looked like she could eat him alive. “I didn’t expect to bring your date home.” 

“Mom said we could watch a movie together here.” Sam told him. 

“Who’s this?” Rachel asked. 

Oh, Dean had heard allll about Rachel. The hot alpha that Sam was totally crushing on. It kind of hurt that his brother didn’t tell her about him. Still, he flashed his most charming smile. “Yeah, why haven’t you introduced us yet?” 

“Oh, umm…” Sam fumbled as Dean walked over to them. “Rachel, this is my brother, Dean. Dean, this is Rachel.” 

“Nice to meet you.” He told her as he extended his hand out. 

“You too.” She said and god! The way she looked at him. The way she fluttered her eyelashes. The way she smiled at him.  

Dean knew that look. 

He didn’t know what she was doing with an alpha when it was clear she was into omegas, but she wanted him. 

“I’ll leave you both to it.” Mary said as she stood up. “I left snacks and drinks in the fridge. There’s also plenty of popcorn in the cabinet.” 

“Thanks, mom.” Sam gave her a big smile. “Is it okay if Rachel showers right fast? It was hot in that gym.” 

“Of course. Come on, dear. I’ll show you where we keep the towels.” 

“Thank you, Mrs. Winchester.” Rachel said as Mary led her up the stairs. 

“So?” Dean asked, shoving his hands into his pockets. “Did you get laid?” 

Sammy glared at him. “That’s none of your business.” 

“So no?” Dean laughed. “Bringing her here to bang, huh? Pretty bold move with mom and dad home.” 

“Can you stop being such a jerk?” Sammy asked as he tugged at his bowtie. 

“When you stop being a bitch.” Dean replied. “I mean, I think it’s a bad idea. Can you imagine not having enough lube when you take her knot? You’d scream like a little bitch and wake up mom and dad!” He laughed. 

“Stop being gross!” Sammy growled like the adorable puppy that he was. 

Dean shrugged. “What? I’m just saying your ass doesn’t slick. It’s not meant to take a knot like omegas.” 

Sam stopped and frowned at him. “Is this really a problem for you? Do… Do you hate me because–” 

“No!” Dean quickly assured. “But you're my baby brother, I have to tease you!” 

Sammy gave him a bitch look. “Can you–” 

They both fell silent when the basement door opened. John stepped out, but froze when he saw Dean. He gave his dad a big smile and hoped he wouldn’t get his head knocked off in front of Sammy. John glared at him, and Dean knew what that meant. It wasn’t over, but John wouldn’t say anything, for now. 

He smiled when his eyes landed on Sammy, and Dean felt a little hurt.  “How was prom?” John asked. 

“It was so fun!” Sam answered. 

“Well, come and tell me all about it.” 

Dean watched Sammy and John disappear into the kitchen. His mouth soured with bitterness and he stormed out of the house. His hands shook as they reached into his pocket, pulling out his cigarette and lighter. Dean leaned against Baby as he lit up. He tried to smoke his frustrations out, but the more he thought about it, the more bitter he felt. 

It wasn’t fair… 

Just because he didn’t have perfect grades in school. Just because he got into trouble here and there… Just because he wanted to have a little fun!

Because he wasn’t fitting into a perfect mold like perfect little Sammy was, they liked the younger son better. 

Both of them, mom and dad, and Dean could tell. 

One cigarette turned into three while Dean smoked his anger away. If he were smart, he’d get into his car and just leave. Instead, he was trying to calm his nerves because he had to say goodbye. Black sheep or not, Dean wouldn’t just let them push him out. 

The door opened, but when he turned his head, it wasn’t Sammy, mom, or dad. He watched as Rachel walked over to him. No longer in her ugly prom dress but in a white tank top and short, short jeans. 

“Hey.” She smiled, only stopping once she was right next to him. 

“Heya.” Dean grinned back. Dropping his half-smoked cigarette to the ground. He snuffed it out with his boot, forgetting all about it. “What’s up?” 

“Sam’s in the shower.” 

“Oh…” Dean felt his heart racing. This was so very wrong. He shouldn’t be having the feelings he was experiencing in this moment. “So… Alphas, huh?” 

Rachel shrugged. “Maybe there aren’t omegas at school like you.” 

Dean dropped his head with a nervous chuckle. “Look, uh… Not saying you’re not hot, ‘cause, god, you are. But uh… I’m twenty-one and I can’t be doing nothing with an underage–” 

“I’m eighteen.” She cut in.

This was wrong. 

So fucking wrong, but damnit, Dean was weak. 

“We gotta make this fast.” Dean said as he opened up the back door. 

Rachel beamed before climbing in, with Dean right behind her. He slammed the door shut, and it was on. Their lips were locked together, their tongues crashing together as they kicked off their shoes and fumbled with the buttons of their jeans. 

It was wrong, Dean fucking knew this, but her lips were amazing. 

And she was legal, and he was only three years older than her. 

But she was Sam’s date… 

Sammy was crazy about this girl. 

“A-are you sure?” Dean asked, gasping for air when they broke apart. “W-what about Sammy?”

She laughed. “I only went to prom with your brother ‘cause of you. Natalie’s sister told me every single detail Natalie said about you. I want you, Dean. I only went out with your brother ‘cause I was hoping to run into you through him.” She smirked. “Lucky me, we met sooner than I thought.” 

Well… 

It wasn’t like Sammy was getting laid. Someone might as well. Their lips crashed together, and Dean knew how messed up this made him, but… The sneaking around? He found it way hotter than he should. 

That high lasted only seconds before he felt his heart literally stop when the back door swung open. 

“Sam!” Rachel yelped. 

Dean could’ve died at that moment. He wanted to, but instead, he turned. Sammy was still in his tux. He hadn’t made it into the shower yet. But that wasn’t the worst part. It was how betrayed Sammy looked, the heartache in his eyes. 

“Sam–” Dean tried, but that earned him a door in his face. “Shit!” He hissed. 

Dean zipped up and cursed when he couldn’t get his button into the hole. He could hear Rachel trying to get her shorts back on, but right now, Dean didn’t care about her. He opened the door, but froze when he saw a pink phone on the driveway. He realized then that his night was blown up because she had left her phone in the bathroom. He cussed again and ran up to the house. Not caring about his socks or boots at all. 

He flung the door open, and when he found Sam sobbing into his hands, Dean’s heart shattered. He gulped, not knowing what to say, but he had to say something. Whatever he said, he couldn’t say that he thought Sammy was in the shower. He’d get a black eye for that. 

“Sam?” Dean slowly said as he carefully walked over to the couch. “I…” 

I’m sorry. 

I was an idiot. 

I didn’t mean to hurt you. 

“She wasn’t really into alphas.” 

It happened before Dean could blink. Sam jumped from the couch, and the next thing he knew, he was seeing stars. He grunted when he landed on the floor, hard. He could already hear their parents' rushed steps from above, but things went from worse to hell when Sammy started yelling. 

“I hate you! I fuckin’ hate you!” He screamed. His face turned red as it twisted. “I wish you weren’t my brother!” 

“Sammy…” Dean’s broken voice was barely a whisper. 

“What’s going on?!” Mary cried. 

“He shoved his tongue down Rachel’s throat!” Sam shouted. “I hate him so much! I hate you, Dean! I don’t wanna see you ever again!” 

“Sammy!” Dean sobbed. 

“Get out!” John roared and Dean scrambled to his feet. 

He could fix this, but not now. He needed to wait for things to cool down first. Dean threw open the door and–

 

Don't need reason

Don't need rhyme

Ain't nothin' that I'd rather do

Goin' down

Party time

My friends are gonna be there too

I'm on the highway to hell

On the highway to hell

Highway to hell

I'm on the highway to hell

 

Dean drummed his hands on the steering wheel. Bobbing his head to the music, he was hit with a sudden, strong sense of déjà vu. It was so strong it almost scared him. Just a little, but for whatever reason, Dean was in a really good mood. He couldn’t remember why, but hell, he’d roll with it.

He slowed down so he could park in front of his childhood home. He had a pep in his step as he headed for the door. He even gave it three playful knocks. His mom answered the door with a huge smile on her face. But when she realized it was him, her smile slipped. 

“Dean?” She carefully asked. “What are you doing here?” 

“What?” He asked, instead of asking her if everything was okay. For whatever reason, he wasn’t sure.. “Can’t I come to see my baby brother? I wanna know how his prom night went. I mean, I missed his pictures being made.” 

“He’s not back yet.” 

“Right on, Sammy!” Dean slipped in instead of asking if he could come in. He headed for the fridge with how are you on the tip of his tongue, but the question wouldn’t come out. 

“So um…” Mary pushed her hair back behind her ear as Dean scavenged the fridge. “How uh, are you and Lee holding up?” 

“Great!” Dean answered, holding a beer in his hand and closing the fridge with his elbow. “He’s so cool. He let me get on stage and sing.” A chuckle escaped his lips. “And no one could say anything about my bad singing ‘cause I’m dating the owner.” 

They weren’t dating, per se, but he wasn’t going to use “hooking up” in front of his mom. 

Mary hummed and nodded her head, but she had that look on her face. The one which said that Dean had done something to mess up, again. He didn't say anything, not yet. He twisted the cap off his beer and tossed it in the trash. He took a swig and let himself enjoy the taste before he dared ask what he did wrong this time. 

“What’s wrong?” 

“It’s just…” Mary rubbed the back of her neck. “You didn’t show up for work today. Your dad’s… Not happy.” 

He huffed and rolled his eyes, but he didn’t understand why he did that. “Can’t a guy take a day off?” He shrugged as he walked to the living room, with Mary right behind him. “It’s Saturday for crying out loud.” 

“But you promised him you’d help fix Mr. Miller’s car.” She reminded him as she sat down on the armchair, not the couch, and an unsettling feeling filled his stomach. 

And Dean remembered that promise. He just couldn’t remember why he blew off his dad. 

“It was a Friday, and I wanted to hang out with Lee. Dad had to know I’d get waaaay too drunk if I was there. Besides, he had everything under control, right?” 

That was right, he remembered now. But he couldn’t understand why he did that. Lee was such a jerk! Why would he leave his dad hanging over such an asshole? 

Mary’s frown deepened. “That’s not the point, Dean. You made a promise to be there.” 

I’m sorry, I don’t know why I did that, but those weren’t the words that came out. 

“Look.” Dean waved his hand, as if he was waving this conversation away. “I’m twenty-one years old. Let me have fun while I can. I know you both like to pretend that you were always perfect, but I bet you both have wild stories when you were my age.” 

That was right, he was twenty-one, but he didn’t like this age. He hated himself when he was this age. 

“I’m worried about you, Dean. I know that…” Mary trailed off, trying to find the best words she could. And Dean? He had this sinking feeling in the pit of his stomach. Something was off… It was wrong, but he couldn’t remember why. “You were starting to become focused again, before Lee, and I’m just scared that–” 

“So Sam and Rachel, huh?” He interrupted and he wanted to scream at himself. He wanted to apologize to his mother. “I mean, how do you feel about that? Him taking a damn alpha to prom?” He asked, but he didn’t understand why those words came out of his mouth. It didn’t fucking matter.

“I know you don’t have a problem with that. John and I raised you better.” She looked so hurt that Dean would have a problem with that. But he didn’t!  

I don’t know why I asked that. I’m sorry. Dean fought so hard to say the words, but they wouldn’t come out. He felt someone else was controlling his body. Holding up his hands like he meant no harm. He felt his mouth open and Dean tried to scream as loud as he could just to get his voice to work. I’m sorry!  “I don’t! It’s just that… It’s Sam! The perfect straight-A student who got a full ride to Stanford! Mr. I’m going to live the most boring normal life. I just didn’t see the kid being into the same subgender when all he wants is the perfect life, that’s all.” 

“Well, he is.” Mary said matter-of-factly. “And I don’t want you teasing him about it anymore.” 

I won’t! Dean wanted to promise. It was one of the many reasons why his relationship with Sammy fell apart. It was one of the reasons why Sammy was wary when Dean reached out, asking to repair their relationship. He worried that Dean actually had a problem with his same subgender attraction. Dean apologized, begged, and swore it wasn’t true, because he didn’t have a problem with it. 

I won’t! I was stupid, and what I said isn’t funny! Just say the fucking words! Dean’s mind screamed for him to say them. 

Dean shrugged. “Sure, whatever. Where’s dad anyway?” 

Dean felt panic surge through him. He tried to scream for help, but it wasn’t working. No matter how hard Dean fought against his body, how hard he tried to change the things he said, he couldn’t. He could only watch in horror as the worst moment in his life played out just exactly as it had before. 

“Dean.” Mary sighed. “For the last time, your dad doesn’t have a favorite child.” 

I know! I know this now! Mom! Help me! Please help me! I don’t want to go through this again!

Dean hummed and took too long a sip of his beer.

Then it happened and fear consumed him, but he could only watch as Sammy opened that dam door. Watched as Sam let the biggest mistake of Dean’s life walk through the door. 

“Dean?” Sam asked. “What… What are you doing here?” 

Dean begged his body to work. To just get up and leave. Leave before he ruined everything. 

“I wanted to see how your date went.” Looking at Rachel made him sick, but he couldn’t stop the smile from forming on his lips. “I didn’t expect to bring your date home.” 

“Mom said we could watch a movie together here.” Sam told him. 

“Who’s this?” Rachel asked, even though Dean now knew that she knew damn well who he was. 

I have to go! I need to go! 

“Yeah, why haven’t you introduced us yet?” Dean’s own voice betrayed him, again. 

“Oh, umm…” Dean got up, and he wanted to run, but his body walked over to them. “Rachel, this is my brother, Dean. Dean, this is Rachel.” 

Please… Please just let me leave… 

“Nice to meet you.” He told her as he extended his hand out. 

“You too.” She said, and he hated the way she looked at him. 

Dean’s mind spun as he helplessly watched this go down again. Every word, every damn single word that was spoken, just like it was before, and before Dean knew it, he was alone with Sammy. 

Sammy! Don’t trust her! She’s just using you! Don’t trust me! I’m an asshole! Get us far away from each other! Dean pleaded for his body to work, just scream the words out. 

“So?” Dean asked, shoving his hands into his pockets. “Did you get laid?” 

Dean felt himself die on the inside. From taunting Sam about his attraction to not being able to apologize to his dad. Dean stormed out of the house, just like he had before, and he was filled with despair. He was right at Baby, but he couldn’t climb in and just leave. He was trapped in his own mind as he smoked cigarette after cigarette, a habit he never wanted again. He gagged internally as he filled his lungs with that awful smoke. Then she came out, and Dean began screaming again. Shouting for his mom, his dad, Sammy, hell, he was even shouting for a God he didn’t believe in. 

In the end, it did him shit. 

“Sam’s in the shower.” Rachel told him, but Sammy wasn’t in the shower. He would be down soon. Looking for Rachel, trying to return the phone she left in the bathroom. 

“Oh…” Dean felt his heart racing. He wanted to puke, but of course, he didn’t. “So… Alphas, huh?” 

Rachel shrugged. “Maybe there aren’t omegas at school like you.” 

He chuckled, and god, Dean wanted to punch his younger self in the face. “Look, uh… Not saying you’re not hot, ‘cause, god, you are. But uh… I’m twenty-one and I can’t be doing nothing with an underage–” 

“I’m eighteen.” She cut in.

And Dean was twenty-seven! Or twenty-six… Wasn’t he? Or was he twenty-one? Dean couldn’t remember anymore. He just knew he didn’t want this. 

But he opened the car door anyway and closed it behind them. Their kisses made him feel so fucking sick. This was so wrong, and Dean wanted to die, but he couldn’t stop himself from kissing her. 

“A-are you sure?” Dean asked instead of telling her to stop. “W-what about Sammy?”

She laughed, that fucking bitch. “I only went to prom with your brother ‘cause of you. Natalie’s sister told me every single detail Natalie said about you. I want you, Dean. I only went out with your brother ‘cause I was hoping to run into you through him.” She smirked. “Lucky me, we met sooner than I thought.” 

Dean was powerless as their lips crashed together. All he could do was wait for the worst moment of his life. For the door to swing open. To see the heartbreak in Sammy’s eyes. Dean understood it better now. It wasn’t just that Dean was caught with Sammy’s crush; it was him. It was Sammy’s big brother betraying him in the worst possible way. 

Dean ran to the house and he felt his soul torn to shreds as he watched Sam sob. 

Tell him you’re sorry. Tell him that he was right to cut you out of his life for five goddamn years! Tell him you’ll understand if he never forgives you. Whatever you say, please, for the fucking love of God, don’t say– 

“She wasn’t really into alphas.” 

Sam rightly clocked Dean in the eye, sending his ass to the ground. 

“I hate you! I fuckin’ hate you!” He screamed. His face turned red as it twisted, and all Dean could do was watch. “I wish you weren’t my brother!” 

“What’s going on?” His mom cried and Dean was filled with so much shame, he wanted to run, hide forever. 

“He shoved his tongue down Rachel’s throat!” Sam shouted. “I hate him so much! I hate you, Dean! I don’t wanna see you ever again!” 

John shouted for Dean to get out, and finally, he could run far away from this. He was finally escaping– 

 

The screams were agonizing. They were so horrible, it felt like a knife in Dean’s soul. 

 

Don't need reason

Don't need rhyme

Ain't nothin' that I'd rather do

Goin' down

Party time

My friends are gonna be there too

I'm on the highway to hell

On the highway to hell

Highway to hell

I'm on the highway to hell

 

Hooks, so many hooks and chains with people screaming, calling out for their loved ones, pleading for mercy. 

 

The vision made Dean want to slam on his brakes, but he kept driving. His head bobbed to the music as he drummed his steering wheel. Dean was acting like he didn’t have a care in the world, but panic was pumping through his veins. Something wasn’t right, but he couldn’t put his finger on it. 

He parked in front of his parents' house and walked with a pep in his step, like he wasn’t internally freaking out right now. He even gave it three playful knocks. His mom answered the door with a huge smile on her face. When her smile slipped, Dean remembered it. He remembered every damn second. 

No! No, no, no, no, no! This can’t happen again! Dean wanted to run, but for some reason, his body walked in anyhow. 

Then it fucking happened again. 

Being rude to his mom, teasing Sammy about his sexuality, and hitting on Rachel. 

Dean could do nothing, no matter how hard he fought with himself, no matter how loud he screamed; it happened again. 

Dean had to watch Sam’s heartbreak all over again. 

“I hate him so much! I hate you, Dean! I don’t wanna see you ever again!” Sammy screamed, breaking Dean’s heart all over again, even if he didn’t blame him. 

Don't need reason

Don't need rhyme

Ain't nothin' that I'd rather do

Goin' down

Party time

My friends are gonna be there too

I'm on the highway to hell

On the highway to hell

Highway to hell

I'm on the highway to hell

 

No! Dean’s mind shouted. No! Please! Not again! Not again! Please! Dean wanted to break down into tears, but his hands drummed the steering wheel as he bobbed his head to the music.

Notes:

Annnnd finally it's been revealed. The reason why Dean was heading to Sam's in chapter one. The real reason why they didn't have a relationship for years. The secret Dean kept from Cas, all the other angels, and even himself. The dirty secret he wanted to hide from, finally out in the open.

Chapter 26: Pissed Off Devil and Fairy Wine

“Room’s fixed. Mind leaving me alone with Cas so we can chat with the demon?” Dean thumbed at some woman who just smelled awful. As she waved at him, Dean’s words clicked in.

“I’m not leaving you alone with a demon, Dean!” Sam cried. Hell no! No fucking way! Sam barely trusted the angels around his brother. There was no way he was leaving Dean alone with an angel and a literal demon. 

“It’s cool.” Dean sighed. “She’s Cas’s demon ex.” 

“Nice to meet you.” She told him. 

“I hate this world!” Sam shouted on the way out. 

He crossed his arms as he stormed to his room. He meant every single word he said. Sam just couldn’t wrap his mind around what the hell was wrong with his brother. How could Dean be so chill about this? 

Yeah, he got it. Dean had been here longer, but… 

This Dean reminded Sam exactly of the old Dean. 

The reckless brother who didn’t take anything seriously. It made Sam feel like Dean lied about changing. That he was still the same old Dean and Sam didn’t like that Dean. The old Dean was an asshole and… God, help Sam for even thinking it, but a part of him was bitter. He felt like he wasted his time trying to find his brother. He felt anger threatening to surface, thinking he got stuck in this world for a brother who hadn’t changed one bit. 

Sam sighed and shoved his key in. He opened the door, but when he flipped on the light, his face twisted. Good news, there were no clowns, but Sam couldn’t stay here! The walls were covered in photos of Gaberiel. Not a single photo was the same, not from what Sam could tell, and it covered every inch of the wall. Then the comforter on the bed was Gabriel’s stupid, smirking face. 

Sam let out a long groan, or maybe he shouted. He wasn’t sure, just that he slammed the door closed and was storming to the lobby. He would fix this himself. Sam swung the door open, but there was no one here. The lobby was empty. 

“Gabriel?” Sam asked as he stepped further in. 

Sam looked around before trying the cafeteria. However, it was empty, except for the rude angel who took his order. Sam stepped out and headed for the back door that was behind the counter. He opened it and stepped in. Finding himself in a cozy lounge with angels. 

The two angels who were bugging him earlier sat next to Lucifer’s wife. There was another man and a woman, sitting just enough to leave a space on the U-shaped leather couch. The man in the sweater vest’s eyes lit up when he saw him. 

“You must be Sam Winchester!” He grinned. “Dean told us all about you. He’s so proud of you!” 

Sam’s brows shot up. “He is?” 

That didn’t sound like Dean. He was always making fun of Sam for taking his grades so seriously. Or… At least he used to. 

“Of course he did! And why wouldn’t he?” The angel asked. “You’re going to be working in justice for your kind! What an incredible goal! And he also bragged about your mate! She’s into stories too, huh? What an important thing to be into.” 

“He talked about Jess?!” Sam couldn’t believe it. Dean seemed so uncomfortable with him… Sure, Sam told him a little about her, but he tried to keep it short, danced around it. 

“Oh, don’t worry.”  Lucifer’s mate said. “We are very open-minded to same subgender relationships. We never had a problem with it.” 

“Join us.” The sweater vest angel said, patting the free spot next to him. 

Sam cleared his throat. “Actually, I need to talk to Gabriel.”

“He’s busy.” The woman next to the sweater vest guy said. 

“Gabriel, Lucifer, Michael, and Naomi are working on an exit to this place.” Lucifer’s mate told him. 

Sam gasped. “What?” The woman scooted over so Sam could take a seat. He needed to sit down because he didn’t understand why they would do that for them. “They’re really doing that for us?” 

“Been Gabriel’s project for months.” Lucifer’s mate smirked. “But don’t get too excited. It could take a while. What they’re doing isn’t easy.” 

“Where are my manners!” The sweater vest guy suddenly blurted. “I’m Castiel, Gabriel, Lucifer, and Michael’s father, Chuck. And hopefully one day, your brother’s father-in-law.” He chuckled. “This is my daughter-in-law, Bille.” Chuck gestured to the woman next to Sam. Then he gestured to Lucifer’s mate. “She’s my other daughter-in-law, Anael.” She smiled at him, but probably because now, she wasn’t worried about him stealing her husband. “And… Sorry, I don’t know you two.” 

“Anna!” The redhead angel raised her hand. 

“Faith.” The blonde one smiled at him. 

“Umm…” Sam rubbed his knees. “Sorry for being rude earlier. I uh… Was overwhelmed with this all.” 

He wasn’t sure why he apologized; he still didn’t trust them, but… They seemed kind of nice when they were freaking him out with their powers. 

“It’s okay.” Anna assured. “I can’t imagine what it’s like to be so helpless in a world you don’t understand.” 

“Just be grateful you didn’t end up with fairies.” Faith chuckled. 

Sam’s brows furrowed. “Faries?” 

“Very sweet, but also not.” Chuck explained like it were truly explaining anything at all. 

Either way, Sam wasn’t sure he wanted to know. 

“So, are humans as open-minded with same subgender relationships like angels are?” Faith asked. 

Sam barked out a laugh. “I mean, it’s getting better, but for the longest time–” 

He cried when the place started to shake, then it was trembling so hard, he fell to the floor. Things went from bad to worse in a matter of seconds. Sounds filled the air like sirens, loud and high-pitched, and Sam felt his skull would crack open. He shouted as he tried to cover his ears, but there was no escaping from it. 

Not until Chuck and Anael dropped to the ground, holding onto him, and for some reason, it made the sound become bearable. Sam could still hear it, but it was muffled. What didn’t stop was the earthquake. It had gotten so bad, Sam watched in horror as the walls began to crack open and crumble. 

“What’s going on?!” He cried. 

“Someone banished Castiel!” Chuck replied, sounding like he could barely believe it. “Dean’s crying for help, but they can’t get into the room!” 

“Meg!” Sam shouted. “Meg’s doing this!” 

“Castiel’s Meg?!” Chuck gasped. 

“Yes!” 

Suddenly, everything was still. Chuck helped Sam to his feet, and all they could do was stare at one another. All Sam could do was stand until the words finally hit him like a train. 

“Dean!” He cried. Sam rushed out of the room, a bunch of angels right after him. Sam stopped in his tracks as Gabriel and his brothers ran in. “What happened?! Where’s Dean?!” 

“He’s gone!” Gabriel was pale, looking at Sam like he couldn’t believe it either. “Cas is gone, Dean’s gone, and whoever did this is gone!” 

“Meg! It was Meg!” Sam rushed to get the words out. 

“Meg?!” Gabriel cried. “But why on earth–” 

“Shit!” Lucifer hissed. 

“You don’t think she…” Anael couldn’t finish the words. 

“I sure fucking hope not!” Lucifer snapped. 

“What?!” Sam cried. 

Lucifer sighed and ran his hand down his face. “Hell… It’s not kind to human souls and it doesn’t give a shit about whether a human is alive or dead. The effects will be the same.” 

Sam’s stomach churned. “What's happening to my brother?” 

“We have a placeholder. Make a human relieve their worst moment, forever. They’ll be conscious, they’ll scream and try to make the outcome different, but they can’t. They’re trapped in their bodies, forced to experience the whole thing over and over again. But Dean-O’s a good egg, I’m sure whatever he’s going through isn’t that bad.” Lucifer held up his hands. “But we do have other tricks! I swear! It’s just something we throw humans in when there’s no one to torment them.” 

Sam felt sick; he knew exactly what Dean was going through, and they had to get him out. “Lucifer?” He shook as he slowly stepped towards the alpha. “I… I know I’m nothing to you, I get that, but please… You have to save my brother. Please don’t let him rot.” 

“Oh, I’m going to get him out, hope that his mind isn’t completely scrambled, and then I’m going to make that little bitch pay. But!” Lucifer pointed at Sam. “I’m not doing this for you, I’m doing this cause unlike you, I give a shit about Dean.” 

Lucifer vanished before Sam’s very eyes.

Gabriel clapped his hands together. “Okay! Ma, Mikey, we gotta put a pep in our step with this exit. I don’t know what Meg is planning on doing, but we need to get Sam to his world so he can tell the fam what’s happening!” 

Sam watched as three more angels disappeared. He flinched when he felt a hand on his shoulder. He turned to see it was Anael. “Don’t worry, Lucifer will find Dean before Meg feeds him to a hellhound or throws his body through our exit.” 

Sam’s brows shot up. “Hell has an exit?” 

A grim expression formed on her face. “It does. So does Heaven. It doesn’t happen often, but sometimes reapers take souls to the wrong place. We can take the souls out, meet on earth, and trade. Taking them to the place they belong, but Sam, we’ve never taken an actual living human through before. We have no idea what it will do. Live people aren’t meant to be in Heaven or Hell. It was only designed for the safety of souls, but don’t worry, she’s probably going for a hellhound. It’ll be faster to dispose of Dean that way. Then we can at least put his body back together! It shouldn’t be that hard.” 

Sam suddenly felt dizzy, and his legs gave out. Anael and Chuck grabbed him. Supported him up and sat him down on the chair. 

Dean was in hell because of Cas’s jealous ex. Even if Lucifer saved Dean’s body from being destroyed, his mind might never be the same again, and Sam… 

He’ll never have the chance to tell his brother that he forgave him. 

Sam wasted the only chance he had trying to get out of here, and now it might be too late. 

He was going to be sick. 

🍭🍨🍩

A groan tumbled out of his lips. He had never felt this much pain in his life. Not even the time Tom’s hellhound got loose and tore him to shreds. Castiel tried to open his eyes, but it was so bright, he snapped them shut. He had to focus on his other senses. He felt warm, a kind of warmth that wasn’t overbearing, just right. He could hear birds chirping and the rustling of leaves from a light breeze. But it was the smell of fairy wine that had his eyes flying open. 

“About time, feathers.” She chuckled. “I was wondering how long it’d take you.” 

Castiel gasped as he sat up. Rowena had him under a tree. The fairy was sitting at a small table nearby, sipping on wine. 

He was in Summerland, but how? 

Then it all came back to him. 

Meg and her family had ambushed him. For what reason, Castiel wasn’t sure, but he needed to get back before it was too late. He tried to stand up, but fell when his legs gave out. 

“I wouldn’t try that, dearie. You’re still far too weak. Banishing really takes it out on angels.” Rowena told him. 

“I have to leave! My–”

“But you just got here!” She grinned down at him. “You haven’t visited me in such a long time! I remember the first time you popped in. You were just a wee little thing! Coudn’t have been but eighty years old!” She giggled, recalling the day it seemed, but Castiel didn’t have time. 

“You don’t understand, I can’t stay here. My true mate–” 

“Oh, your mother caught you after you snuck in. She tried to apologize to me, but–” Rowena waved her hand dismissively. “I wasn’t angry! Far from it! I don’t get many angel visitors! I was positively thrilled! Especially when that angel was just a child, and one as adorable as you!” 

“Rowena!” He cried, and finally, he had the fairy’s full attention. “Meg and her family are after my true mate! I don’t know why, but I have to get back before they hurt him.” 

Rowena frowned. “Now, we can’t have that, can we? Oh, but you’re just too weak to go anywhere. I tell you what, you remember Crowley? My demon son?” Castiel nodded his head. “Let me give him a call. He has the most bloodthirsty hellhounds in all of Hell. He’ll tear that little whore and her family to shreds and get your true mate back, okay? But you need to rest!” She waggled her finger at him. “You’ll do your true mate no good if you kill yourself trying to get back.” 

Castiel huffed as he leaned back on the tree. As much as he hated it, she was right. If he tried to hop dimensions now, he’d destroy his body in the process. 

“Good boy!” Rowena cooed as she rose from her seat. “I’ll be back in a flash. Until then, help yourself to as much wine as you like.” 

Castiel looked up at her, narrowing his eyes. “I’m not falling for that again.” 

She laughed before vanishing and Castiel closed his eyes. Focusing on all his grace, trying to heal himself as quickly as he could. 

“I’m sorry, Dean…” He failed as an alpha; he couldn’t be there for his omega when Dean needed him the most. 

Notes:

Just in case this is my last chapter, I wanted to tell you guys that tomorrow, I'll be breaking my streak. I probably won't be posting anything tomorrow because it's my husband's birthday! 💙

But I will resume the day after 💙

Chapter 27: But That Doesn't Matter to Me

“No…” It mumbled. “S-stop… No… Please…” 

“Can I gag it now?” Meg asked. 

Usually, it was fun listening to the humans trapped in their Hell loops. Personally, Meg liked making them think they were back on Earth. Letting them think they were living happy lives with their loved ones. That they had their second chance to do it right. She loved giving them years, maybe even decades, before pulling the plug. Waking them up and seeing the horrified looks on their faces when they realized they had never left. Loops were fun too, but not when it was right next to her. 

Meg looked at Clarence’s pet. It was staring out the window, looking at nothing while drool dripped down its chin. Oh, it had been fun at first, but after a few hours? She wanted to snap its stupid, fragile neck. 

She couldn’t do that, as much as she wanted to. Castiel would never forgive her, so she had to resort to gagging. 

Her father laughed. “Did you bring a gag?” 

“I’ll use my shirt if I have to.” 

“We’re almost there.” 

Meg hoped her father was right. She was on edge. Lucifer had to be looking for them. And, unlike them, he had wings. He could easily find them. Hopefully, they threw this thing through the exit before they were all slaughtered. 

Tom was in the front seat, refusing to take turns sitting with the pet. Leaving Meg in the back, next to the disgusting thing. Maybe she could cut his vocal cords out. She was sure Clarence could fix that once Dean was topside. 

Meg sighed and looked out the window. It was always beautiful in Hell. Chains way up high in the sky, folks suffering on racks. There was nothing better. They were nearing the exit. Or, what Azazel swore the exit was. She had never seen it herself, but her father was old. Existed in a time before Hell’s creation. Azazel was there when Lucifer and Michael spent years creating an exit for souls. 

If he said it lay in the graveyard, she trusted him. 

Meg was pulled from her thoughts when she thrust forward. Cussed when she hit the back of the seat. She gritted her teeth as she scooted over to see why on earth her father had stopped, but she quickly found out. 

“Crowley?” She asked. 

“We don’t have time for this…” Azazel grumbled before opening the door. 

“Keep an eye on the human!” Meg demanded. She was out of the car before Tom could protest. 

“Crowley!” Azazel greeted. Meg came to stand next to him. Wondering why this salesman was blocking their way.  “Last time I heard, you were topside!” 

“Just here for business, Azazel.” Crowley grinned, and Meg always thought he had a slimy smile. She always wanted to cut it off. 

“It couldn’t be with us. We’ve never dealt together.” Azazel said. 

“Actually, I’m here on behalf of my mother.” Crowley answered. 

Meg and Azazel looked at each other, sharing a laugh before her father turned his full attention to the half breed. “The fairy? Now, what on earth would a fairy want with us?” 

“Not you.” Crowley corrected. “The human you have. She’s adamant that she has him.” 

Meg pressed her lips into a thin line. Now, what were the chances a fairy would know they had a human on them? Unless Tom’s banishment sent Clarence to the fairy realm.  

“Sorry, no can do. This human’s already part of a deal, and I’m afraid I struck that bargain first.” Azazel told, sounding sure this would be over. 

It should be, keeping deals? They treated them like humans treated religion. 

But Meg had a bad feeling in her gut, and it only grew worse the way Crowley’s smile grew. 

“I was hoping you’d make this hard.” He said before letting out a quick, sharp whistle. 

Meg’s stomach churned when a pack of hellhounds came to stand on either side of him. The biggest, ugliest hellhounds with the sharpest teeth she had ever seen.

“Oh shit!” She cried. 

“Sic’em, boys!” Crowley cheerfully shouted. 

The ground thundered as they sprinted towards them. Meg and her father got back into the car, but it was too late to start it up. The roof caved in when one hound jumped on it. Poor Tom never stood a chance. He had just opened the door in an attempt to escape when the glass shattered. Her brother barely had time to scream before a hound latched down on his throat and yanked him from his seat. 

“Fuck!” Meg cried. 

She had to get out of here, but they were surrounded. The door on the other side swung open, and Azazel shouted, “Distract them!” as he grabbed Dean. 

Right, the mission came first. 

In the grand scheme of things, her or Tom’s lives didn’t matter. 

The only thing that did was that Azazel and Dean survived, or this was all for nothing. 

Meg swung open her door and booked it, while shouting at the hellhounds. It worked; she could hear them snarling right at her heels. Meg turned, needing to make sure they weren’t following her father. Just as long as they were focused on her, Azazel could handle the half breed. She didn’t have much of a chance. The second she stopped, she was knocked to the ground. 

A scream ripped from deep within her gut as their teeth sank into her. She withered in pain when one tore into her shoulder. Her flesh ripped as one yanked her down by her ankle, and another one tried to pull her from the right by her hand. 

“Graveyard, boys!” Crowley demanded. “Don’t let him get to the exit!”

The pressure let up as they ignored her, running towards the graveyard. Meg wanted to get up, help her father, but she couldn’t move, just a twitch here and there. She panted as her body burned and throbbed from agony. 

Azazel had to succeed; he just had to. 

It couldn’t happen without him. 

Meg let out a raspy laugh when Lucifer was suddenly in her vision. “Y-you’re too late… It will b-b-be done…” 

Lucifer raised a brow. “I have no idea what you mean, but we’ll see about that.” 

Meg closed her eyes as Lucifer leaned down, his fingers coming for her head. 

So this was it? 

Meg would be smited while lying helplessly as a mangled chew toy. 

But at least she played her part. 

Lucifer’s finger touched her skin, but she wasn’t filled with righteous light that would burn her from the inside out. Meg gasped, her eyes widening as she found her body healed. 

“W-what? Why?” She asked because she couldn’t comprehend why an archangel, her king, would spear her after what she had done. “T-thank you!” 

The deep, low chuckle snuffed any hope she had left. Lucifer smirked at her. “Ooooh, no, no. You fucked with my brother and my friend. I didn’t heal you out of the goodness of my heart. No, death would be too easy for you.” 

Lucifer snapped his finger and Meg’s back arched up as another scream ripped out of her. She could hear the bone in her left arm snap. He snapped his finger again, then again, and for a fourth time. Snapping her bones, her right arm, then her right leg, and finally, her left. Meg’s throat was raw from how hard she howled. Her body was twisting and turning with every snap. 

When it was finally over, Lucifer left her heaving as pain consumed every inch. Sweat dripped from her hairline, her lungs felt heavy, and she couldn’t move. She felt like she looked like the mangled bodies on the racks. 

“No, you’re going to live forever, I’ll make sure of it.” Lucifer smiled down at her. “I’m going to make an example out of you. I’ll put you on the rack, where every demon can view you. Where they can watch you suffer.” 

“I-it doesn’t m-matter…” She hissed through her closed teeth. “Y-you’re too late…” 

“Where is Dean?” Lucifer asked, but she only laughed. (Even if laughing made the pain a thousand times worse) She watched Lucifer slowly turn his head when Crowley whistled. “Who are you?” 

“A friend of a friend.” Crowley answered. “I got my Hellhounds right at Azazel’s heels. He’s heading for the exit. Might wanna open those wings and get there before yellow eyes.” 

Meg’s eyes slipped closed when Lucifer vanished. 

She hoped her father made it through the exit. 

🍭🍨🍩

Mary stared out the kitchen window. The mug that was once warm with tea was now cold to the touch. John was still asleep, but Mary couldn’t rest. Not too long ago, she made a deal, and the weight was crushing her. 

She tried to wrap her mind around what she had done, but she couldn’t. 

She couldn’t imagine looking Dean in the eyes, seeing the tears run down his face when his first pup vanished. 

Mary couldn’t understand how she made such a deal. She almost didn’t believe it. She didn’t want it to be real. 

What else could she have done? 

If Dean was trapped in another world, no one–no human could’ve gotten him out. 

It was the only way, she told herself, but it didn’t make her feel any better. 

“Mary!” Azazel shouted from the living room. 

Startling her so badly, she spilled her tea. She could hear John’s feet stomp the floor above her. She shoved out of her chair and ran for the living room. She had to get the demon out before her husband saw him. 

Mary came to a screeching halt, her heart twisting in her chest, and her mind unable to believe it. 

Azazel gently laid her son on the couch. 

“Dean!” She cried, but her hope crumbled when she saw his face. His green eyes glazed over, drool leaking from the corner of his mouth. “W-what happened?! What’s wrong with my son?” 

“Mary!” She heard John call out. His rushed feet ran down the stairs. 

“Listen to me!” Azazel hissed. “I don’t have much time. I’m a wanted man now because of you. If you want to fix your son, call Castiel.” Mary opened her mouth, but the demon rushed to speak over her. “Call him! And remember your deal.” 

“Mary!” John ran into the living room seconds after Azazel vanished. She heard his breath hitch. “Dean?” John hurried over to their son, dropping to his knees. “Dean?!” He cried when he saw their son’s face. Mary stepped back as her husband tried to shake Dean out of whatever had happened to him. “Oh my god! Dean! What did they do to my son?!” 

“Castiel!” Mary yelled. She looked around the room, but no one appeared. “Castiel?!” 

“Who’s Castiel?” John shouted, but Mary couldn’t answer him. 

Her heart pounded in her chest. The only person who could save her son wasn’t showing up. Mary took a deep breath, held, then, as loud as she could, she screamed, “CASTIEL!” 

Notes:

Okay, for real, last chapter for today. None tomorrow, but I promise more on the 7th lol

Chapter 28

Castiel! Please! Dean needs you! 

The woman’s voice tormented Castiel. She had to be Dean’s mother, which meant Dean was back in his world. And if he was in his world, that meant his body was breaking down at an alarming rate. Castiel used the tree to help him push himself up onto his feet. 

“You’re still weak, Castiel.” Rowena told him. 

She and another fairy who Castiel had never met before until now, Patrick, set up an altar. They were mixing something and he didn’t ask what. 

“I need to go.” Castiel said, ignoring how rough his voice still was. “I’m unable to get in touch with my family, and Dean’s on earth and he’s in trouble.” 

“Huh…” Rowena frowned. “My son said he would take care of this. I guess they managed to give his hellhounds the slip.” 

“Curious, isn’t it?” Patrick said. “Why would demons return a human to earth?” 

“They wouldn’t, unless someone made a deal.” Rowena answered and Castiel’s heart sank. 

That was exactly what Dean’s mother did. He had to get out of here now. If she sold her soul, there was nothing he could do. Not unless he found Azazel and killed him. Which he planned to do, as well as smite Tom and Meg. He’d have to worry about them later. First, he had to save Dean. 

Cas spread his wings, prepared to take flight. 

“Hold your wings. “ Rowena scolded. “We’re almost done here and then you can take off.” 

“What are you doing?” He asked. 

“Rowena believed you’d be foolish enough to leave before you were fully healed.” Patrick answered. “For whatever reason, she cares about you. Doesn’t want you to be shredded to pieces from dimension-hopping. So, we’re making you a potion.” 

Rowena gave him a huge smile. “Drink it and you’ll be as good as new. You can save your human, but I expect you to invite me over for tea one day. I want to meet this true mate of yours.” 

“Of course.” Castiel promised. 

He didn’t like the idea of waiting. Not when Dean’s mother was crying out for him. Not when he had no idea what was happening with Dean. The handful of minutes he watched Rowena and Patrick throwing ingredients into the bowl and chanting over it felt like hours. Eventually, there was a poof of purple smoke. 

Rowena grabbed the bowl and brought it over to Castiel. He took it, though he was nervous about it. Fairies were… Tricksters in nature. They could give Gabriel and Lucifer a run for their money, but he trusted Rowena. He didn’t think she would prank him when the situation was so dire. So, he brought the bowl to his lips and drank every last drop. 

It happened instantly, the magic sparking his whole body to life. Castiel felt his grace boost with untapped energy. Within seconds, he was back to his strength. He barely had time to hand the bowl to Rowena before he flapped his wings, leaving this place behind him. 

There was a scream, and a shotgun pointed at his chest as an older alpha man demanded to know who he was. But Castiel barely paid them any mind. His focus was on his mate. His body seemed to be intact, but Dean’s eyes were glazed over. He wasn’t here with them. 

“Hey! I’m talking to you! Who the fuck are you?!” The man demanded again, John, he remembered Dean telling him his name was John. “Where the fuck did you come from?!”

“Wait! Don’t!” Dean’s mother, Mary, cried. “That’s Castiel!” 

“What did you do?” Castiel growled as he faced her. “What did you ask Azazel to do?!” 

Mary’s eyes grew wide and John looked like he was about to go into alpha rage. “Who the fuck is Azazel?! Who the hell are you?! I’m not asking again!” 

“I’m Castiel, your son’s true mate.” He relied, and he watched Mary’s face lose color.

“True mate?” She warily asked. “Are you a demon too?” 

“Demon?!” John stared at his mate like she had lost her mind.  

“No.” Castiel answered. “I’m an angel and as Dean’s alpha, I demand to know what you had Azazel do to him!” 

“I don’t know what you are! But I won’t let some monster take my son away!” He cried before pulling the trigger. 

The blast boomed in the air and Castiel looked down at his ruined shirt. When he looked back, he saw fear on John’s face for the first time. Mary didn’t seem as shocked as her husband. Castiel didn’t know how much she knew, but she knew enough.

“I’m not here to take Dean away.” Castiel grabbed his cord and showed off his vial of Dean’s blood. “This is Dean’s blood. He gifted it to me as a way to show he had chosen me as his mate.” He gestured to his grace around Dean’s neck. “That’s my grace, the most intimate gift an angel could present to their true mate.” 

“He was gone for three days!” John shouted.  

“In your reality, yes. In mine, it was ten months.” 

“Bullshit!” John snarled. 

“No, he’s right. Time works differently there.” Mary confirmed. 

“What the hell are you talking about?! How would you know?!” John asked. He sounded confused and angry, and Castiel couldn’t blame him. 

It couldn’t be easy to find out that one’s reality wasn’t the only one out there. Dean had gone through the same thing, but Castiel didn’t have time for this. He walked over to Dean, bent down, and reached out to touch him. Stopping when the gun cocked again. 

“It didn’t work the first time. Do you really believe it would work now?” He asked. 

“You took him!” John growled. “I saw the note!” 

“I didn’t take him. Dean ended up in our dimension because our souls cried out to each other.” 

“Why wouldn’t you just let him leave?” Mary asked, sounding hurt. 

“We tried. This place wasn’t meant for humans. Sometimes… Something happens and they end up finding the place. For Dean, it was because he was my true mate. We tried to get him out, but when we brought him back to earth, his body started to fall apart. We had to take him back; it took five angels and an archangel to heal him.” Castiel stood up and faced Mary. “It’s important to know what you asked Azazel to do. I need to know what I’m working with to save Dean.” 

“I don’t know what he did.” Mary sheepishly admitted. “He just said he could bring Dean back.” 

“Demon? You made a deal with a demon?” John asked, but he looked like he was barely comprehending any of this. 

“Oh god…” Castiel gasped. “He must have taken Dean to Hell to get through the exit. Do you have any idea what you’ve done?! You could have damaged his mind forever!” 

“I just wanted my son back…” Mary’s bottom lip quivered. 

“I’m going to attempt to bring him back.” Castiel narrowed his eyes. “But no more deals. We can’t risk Sam’s life as well.” 

“Sam?!” She cried. “What’s happening with Sam?! I just talked to him hours ago!”

“He’s been with us for days.” Castiel bluntly told her. “He’s in good hands, so don’t make any more deals that’ll risk his life.” He looked Mary in the eyes and then John’s. “I’m going into Dean’s mind. My body will be vulnerable while I’m there. You could take the chance to try to kill me. Maybe you’ll find a way to do it. But if you do, you’re risking Dean’s life.” 

“We’ll protect you!” Mary quickly assured. 

John looked less sure, but he lowered his gun. “Can you really save my son?” 

“I’m going to do my best.” Castiel answered. 

“Then I’ll guard you with my life.” He swore. 

Castiel would have to trust them. Trust that they wouldn’t dig through his pockets, find his angel blade, and use it against him. It was a risk he was willing to take for Dean. He walked over to his mate, placed his fingers on his head, and entered his mind. 

🍭🍨🍩

Sam examined the sigils on the wall. He had never seen them before, but Anael had given him a book on angel sigils. 

“This is some powerful stuff.” Faith muttered as she looked over them with him. The only reason they could enter the room was that the walls had been destroyed during Dean’s kidnapping. “I mean, there are some that can keep out archangels! I’ve only heard stories about them.” 

“They’re not in this book.” Sam said. He had flipped through the pages, but only the sigils for angels were on them. “How did Meg discover the ones for archangels?” 

“You don’t think she created them?” Anna asked. She was scraping off the sigils Sam had already documented. 

“No, she couldn’t have.” Faith argued. “But if her father was involved with this, then maybe. He was alive before Hell was created.” 

“I just don’t understand.” Anna muttered. “Meg’s not a jealous ex. She didn’t want Castiel as her alpha, so why did she take his mate?” 

That was the question everyone kept finding themselves on. At first, Sam did assume that Meg was jealous, but then he heard the story that Anna and Faith told him. How Castiel presented his wings to her, asked her to be his mate. How she rejected him and was just gone for over three hundred years. 

It didn’t add up. 

So, if it wasn’t jealousy, then why did Meg take Dean? The sigils on the wall told Sam they had gone through the effort to keep the angels out long enough to pull this off. They even banished Castiel to another dimension to make sure he didn’t get in the way. 

Sam had asked about demons and he learned they loved pain. Thrived on it and that was why Lucifer and Aneal opened the doors to Hell for them. Maybe Meg didn’t hurt Castiel enough when she rejected him. Maybe this was a way to inflict the maximum damage she could to hurt Castiel, but… 

It seemed so small compared to everything they went through to make it happen. 

Sam was missing something, but he wasn’t sure what. 

“Sam.” Lucifer said. 

Sam jerked at his sudden appearance but quickly got over it. “Did you find him?” 

The frown on Lucifer’s face was his answer. “Azazel slipped me and the hellhounds. He got through the exit, Sam. I’m sorry.” 

Sam’s heart twisted in his chest. “You couldn’t find him on earth?!” 

“Dean, yes. Azazel, no. I need to form a search party. He won’t get away with this.” Lucifer swore, but Sam didn’t feel any better. If Dean were on Earth, then what would that mean for his body? Was it breaking down like the angels said it would? As if reading his mind, Lucifer spoke up once again. “Dean’s body is intact. I watched for a bit and nothing bad was happening. It seems like the exit was strong enough, but Sam… He’s trapped in his mind.” 

“I need to get to Dean!” Sam dropped the book and looked into Lucifer’s eyes. “You made it no secret that you don’t like me. So, you’ll be willing to risk my life. Get me out of this world.” 

Lucifer hummed. “I mean, just because I don’t like you doesn’t mean I want you to die.” He placed his hands on his hips. “Which is weird. Usually, watching humans suffering the most painful suffering they could suffer before death really does it for me.” Sam’s shoulders slumped. “So, let’s see where the fam is with the exit to this place.” 

Sam didn’t have time to say anything. Lucifer placed his hand on his shoulder and then they were outside. The sudden change left Sam dizzy. He fell to his hands and knees and vomited. 

“How’s the exit coming along?” Lucifer asked. 

“It’s holding together by tape.” Michael answered. 

“Is it strong enough for me to get through?” Sam asked after he wiped his mouth with the sleeve of his coat as he stood up. He watched Gabriel examining an outhouse. “Wait? Is that the exit?” 

“Yup!” Gabriel replied 

“Why did it have to be an outhouse?” 

“Create your own motel and then you can design it however you like.” Gabriel quipped, and Sam wasn't sure why he expected an actual answer. “It might be safe enough…” 

“I don’t like it.” Naomi said. Eyeing the outhouse like it was a ticking time bomb. “These things take time. This is barely holding up.” 

“We don’t have time.” Lucifer jumped in. “Dean’s in trouble, Azazel is missing. We’re going to need someone to heal Dean, and I need the rest of you to hop through dimensions to find Azazel.” 

“It’s up to Sam.” Gabriel turned to his family. “Listen, Luci’s right. No matter what happens, we need to abandon this project. If Sam goes through, one of us needs to be there with him, just in case. If he stays here, someone needs to stay behind with him. We don’t know why Meg took Dean, but we can’t take any chances that the demons come back for Sam.” 

“I’m going through.” Sam said. One way or the other, he was getting back to his brother.  

Gabriel clapped his hands. “Allllllright! But I’m obligated to warn you about the side effects that we may or may not be able to fix. Side effects include, but not limited to, throwing up your liquifying insides. Not fun, ask Dean-O about that one. They may also include limbs not in the places they belong. Exploding into a million pieces. Insides may appear on the outside. Regenerating flesh over your eyeballs, face sinking in on itself, mouth on the floor, throat teeth, and et cetera.” 

Sam bent over, grabbing his knees as he fought through a wave of dizziness. 

“Okay…” He said breathlessly. “Let’s do it.” 

“I’ll make sure he’s safe.” Lucifer told Gabriel, but he was unsure why the archangel cared so much.  

“Whenever you’re ready, Sam.” Gabriel said and Sam nodded. “Let my outhouse open the door to your world.” 

Sam took a deep breath, opened the door to the outhouse, and stepped right through it. When he came through the other side, he was in the bedroom of someone’s apartment. Lucifer was already there, keeping a sharp eye on Sam, like he would break down at any second. 

Sam’s heart hammered in his chest, so he looked around the place to try to calm himself down. It didn’t take him long to figure out whose place this belonged to. Even though Dean lived ten months in Gabriel’s pocket world, he had only been gone for three days. He could still smell the faint scent of Dean here. Crisp apples, cinnamon, and clove held onto the belongings in this room. There were also Dean’s clothes on the floor and dresser that he couldn’t bother to pick up. His record player was in here, and so were his vinyls. 

Sam’s heart twisted in his chest. He hadn’t seen or talked to his brother in five years. The one chance he got, the brief time they were together again, and he wasted it. Now he wasn’t sure if he’d ever have a chance to get to know his brother again. 

“Hey!” Lucifer snapped Sam out of his thoughts. “Your body! It’s still in one piece!” 

Sam’s eyes widened. “It… Worked?” 

“It worked!” Lucifer laughed like he couldn’t believe it. 

Sam’s relief was short-lived. Dean wasn’t out of the woods yet. “Please? Can you take me to where Dean is? Can you heal him?” 

“I’ll do everything in my power.” Lucifer told him. 

Sam braced himself when Lucifer reached out and held onto his shoulder. Appearing in his parents’ living room was still disorienting, but at least he didn’t lose any more of his lunch. His parents shouted. John picked up a shotgun and aimed it at them before they both realized he was here. But all Sam could do was look at Dean lying on the couch, with his eyes glazed over and Castiel passed out on the floor. 

“Sam!” His mother cried, throwing her arms around him and hugging him tight. 

“What happened to them?” Sam asked. 

“Castiel’s in Dean’s mind. He’s trying to get him out.” Lucifer answered, knowing what was happening by just looking at them. 

“Who the hell are you?!” John demanded. 

“Dad, please put down the gun. He’s a… Friend.” Sam said. 

“Hey, I’m Lucifer. Nice to meet you both.” Luicfer waved at them. 

“Lucifer?!” Both his parents cried. Both were as pale as a ghost. 

Lucifer crossed his arms and huffed. “Don’t tell me you both buy into the rumors about me? I didn’t betray a God you humans created and I didn’t fall. I volunteered for the job as ruler of Hell.” 

“Oh…” John gasped out. “O-okay.” 

“Can you help Castiel?” Sam asked. 

“Actually, I think it would be better if it were just him in there. If anyone can bring back Dean, it’s my baby bro.” Lucifer told him and Sam nodded. 

He stepped over Castiel and knelt in front of Dean. Sam reached out and grabbed Dean’s hand. He gave it a little squeeze. “Dean, I’m right here. I’m here for you, and I… I forgive you. Whatever happened in the past, it’s in the past. I’m not mad at you anymore, okay? I forgave you a while ago, and I love you. Please, just come home.” 

Sam stayed like that, holding his brother’s hand, and hoping with everything he had that Castiel would bring Dean back. 

Notes:

What? Idk what you mean. It was always 30 chapters total

Lol okay, seriously though. Sorry for getting this out a day later than I said I would. Between family calls and other personal things, I didn't have time to write, edit, and post it on the 7th. But better late than never?

Chapter 29: The Places You Go

The pink phone dropped onto the driveway, cracking as Sam ran back into the house. Castiel watched a younger Dean trip out of his car. 

“Sammy!” This Dean shouted as he ran towards the house. 

Castiel appeared inside the living room before the younger Dean even threw open the door. The very young Sam was crying on the couch. Dean cautiously walked towards him 

“She wasn’t really into alphas.” This Dean said and Sam jumped from the couch, punching him in the eye, knocking him to the ground. 

“I hate you! I fuckin’ hate you! I wish you weren’t my brother!” The young Sam screamed. 

“Sammy…” Dean sounded so broken. 

“What’s going on?!” Mary cried from the stairs. 

“He shoved his tongue down Rachel’s throat!” Sam shouted. “I hate him so much! I hate you, Dean! I don’t wanna see you ever again!” 

“Sammy!” Dean sobbed. 

“Get out!” John roared and Castiel watched Dean shove himself to his feet. 

Dean ran out the door and suddenly the night sky was now daylight. Castiel found himself the only person in the house. He walked up the stairs and found himself in a hallway that never seemed to end. The doors on either side just went on and on and on. 

There were so many emotions, so much fear and pain, but Castiel focused on Dean, his Dean. He closed his eyes, tried to zero in on Dean’s soul. The problem was, Dean’s soul was everywhere, but his consciousness was somewhere, in one of these many doors. Castiel picked up on a smidge of Dean, and he began following it until he reached the forty-seventh door. He grabbed the knob, twisted it, and opened the door. 

Inside, John, Mary, Sam, and a blonde alpha Castiel had never seen before were having dinner. They were out at some restaurant, celebrating. 

“Congratulations!” John said with a proud smile. 

“I’m so excited for you both!” Mary exclaimed. She grabbed the hand of the unknown alpha. Taking a closer look at the ring on her finger. 

“I’m just glad our mating ceremony will be drama-free.” Sam chuckled. “Trust me, Jess. You’re so lucky you’ve never met my brother.” 

“Was he really that bad?” The blonde alpha, Jess, asked. 

Sam snorted. “You have no idea.” He answered before picking up his glass of wine. 

“What happened to him?” Jess asked. 

Mary simply shrugged. “I don’t know. He just disappeared one day. Honestly, he probably just ran off with some alpha.” 

“He better not come crawling back when it blows up in his face.” John grunted. “I’m tired of giving him chances. He can stay away for all I care.” 

“Let’s not talk about him anymore.” Mary said. “We should celebrate Sam and Jess!” 

Castiel watched them pick up their glasses and clank them together. This wasn’t a memory; this was a fear, and Dean had been here recently. Castiel left the room and eventually found himself drawn to door two hundred thirteen. He stepped through and found himself in the lobby of Mystery Spot Inn. Dean was there, as well as Gabriel and a version of himself. 

This Castiel had a look of disgust on his face as he backed away from Dean. “You? You’re my true mate?” He shook his head. “It can’t be. You’re disgusting! You’re nothing! How could I be tied to something so worthless?! I can’t be! Gabriel!” 

“On it!” His brother said. 

Gabriel grabbed Dean’s shoulder from behind and shoved an angel blade into his spine. The room flickered and the scene started again. Castiel left this room, not liking it one bit. He didn’t like any of these rooms. The thought that Dean’s worst fears lay behind them, and there was nothing he could do to protect the man he loved, he hated it. 

He had to find Dean, and fast. 

Castiel ran down the hall, opening door after door, but only finding Dean’s nightmares. 

John lying into Dean, telling him how much of a disappointment he was. 

Castiel abandoning Dean when he admitted he wasn’t sure he’d ever want pups. 

A monster tearing Dean to shreds in a pit of colorful balls. 

An older Sam telling Dean that he still hated him. That looking at him disgusted him and he didn’t want to be brothers with someone like him. 

Castiel sitting Dean down, telling him that the novelty of him being human had worn off and asking for his grace back. 

Every door Castiel opened, he was met with a horrible thought from Dean’s mind, but no Dean. Fear started to grip Castiel, his mind screaming he’d never find his true mate. He pushed through it, trying his best to ignore it. He couldn’t give up; he couldn’t just let Dean rot here. To be tormented by his own mind. 

Castiel stopped at room six hundred and eighty-six. He swung open the door and stepped through. 

Lightning flashed through the smoggy sky. Thunder boomed over the screams. Chains, everywhere. Dean’s wrists and ankles were bound to the chains with hooks in his body. One in his shoulder and another in his torso. 

“Sammy?!” The terrified Dean shouted. “Cas?!” 

Dean, the real Dean, sat cross-legged in front of him. Staring up at the version of himself suffering in Hell. Castiel walked over and took a seat next to him. 

“This is me, isn’t it?” Dean asked without breaking his sight from the scene. “This is where I’ll end up, right?” 

“That’s not true, Dean.” Castiel told him. “If it were, you wouldn’t have been sent to Heaven when Gabriel killed you. This… This is just your mind grappling with what you saw in Hell.” 

Finally, Dean turned his head. Tired green eyes bore into Castiel’s. “I was in Hell?” 

“Yes. Don’t you remember? Meg and her family ambushed us. They took you down to Hell so they could get you through Hell’s exit.” 

He watched Dean think back on it. For a moment or two before he saw the light of recognition in his eyes. “I do… They banished you, and Azazel pushed me into a dark hole.” Dean looked around him. “Are we in Hell now?” 

“No.” Castiel answered. “I mean, Hell looks like this. While you were in Hell, you would’ve been trapped in a loop of your worst memory, but even if you weren’t conscious, you were still seeing everything.” 

“Memory loop? Oh yeah… I… I remember that. I couldn’t control my own body or say what I really wanted to say. So, you saw that, huh?” 

“I saw a part of it.” Castiel admitted. 

Dean gave him a sad smile. “Then you know I deserve this.” 

“I know that you made a mistake.” Cast told him. “But we’ve all made mistakes. Mistakes don’t equal Hell. You’ve changed, Dean, for the better.” 

Dean snorted. “And how would you know?” 

Castiel lifted a brow. “Because I’ve known you for almost a year. I know what kind of person you are. You’re the person who embraces those who are different. You befriend those who deserve your kindness. You’re the kind of person who sat me down, wanting to learn about who we were. You–” 

Dean threw his head back and barked out a laugh. “Dude, see? That’s what I’m talking about! Like, sure, as I got to know you and everyone, you guys did become my friends. But you want the truth? Like the honest to god truth? I was using you at first. I wanted to know how to kill Gabriel. I was going to trick you into thinking I was friends with you guys so I could get your guards down. Hell! I had Gabriel’s blade! In my hands, and I was so close to stabbing him.” 

“But you didn’t.” 

Dean hung his head and shrugged. “I… What can I say? You guys grow on a person.” 

Castiel reached out, placing his hand on Dean’s shoulder. “That’s what I’m talking about, Dean. Someone without a kind heart would’ve gone through with it. You are not a bad person. You’re the most amazing person I’ve ever met.” 

Dean chuckled. “Cas, you haven’t met a lot of people.” 

“But it stands true. I could meet every person on the planet and in Heaven. In any dimension, humans, angels, fairies, it doesn’t matter. No matter who I meet, it wouldn’t change my mind.” 

“So?” Dean asked as he leaned over, resting his head on Castiel’s shoulder. “If we’re not in Hell, then where are we?” 

“We’re in your mind.” Castiel felt Dean didn’t believe him. “I can prove it. Close your eyes. Focus on a place that brings you comfort.” 

Dean did, and Castiel waited for a bit until the scene around them started to change. They were no longer in Hell, but the lake Dean had taken him to in the backroom. His favorite fishing spot. 

“Whoa.” Dean gasped. “We’re really in my mind?” 

“Yes.” Castiel said as he watched Dean stand up. He did as well and followed Dean to the sandy bank. “You’re trapped in your mind, but now that you’re aware of it, you can leave now.” 

Dean hummed, picking up a stone and throwing it at the water. They watched it skip five times before sinking into the water. “I don’t know.” 

Castiel’s brows furrowed together and he tilted his head. “What do you mean?” 

Dean shrugged, picked up another stone, and tossed it. “I mean… Maybe this isn’t such a bad thing, you know? Maybe it’s for the best.” 

“How could you say that?” Castiel asked, coming to stand next to Dean. 

“Come on, skip stones with me. It’s fun!” Dean grabbed another one and tossed it. It only skipped three times before sinking. 

“I will. In the real world.” Castiel told him, but Dean only grinned at him. 

“Come on! Try at least once.” He said and Castiel looked down at the rocks. Best to it, it might keep Dean focused. “You want a flat one.” Castiel bent down, grabbing the flattest stone he saw. “Okay, so you wanna–” Castiel tossed the stone. He watched it skip over the water until it landed on the other side of the bank. Dean laughed, grabbing Castiel’s shoulders and shaking him. “Dude! Such a freaking show off.” 

“You can’t stay trapped in your mind.” Castiel told him. 

“I know.” Dean reached down and grabbed a stone. He focused on the water, a bit of his tongue sticking out before he tossed it. It made it eight skips. “You could ask Gabriel to finish me off. Then we can live in Heaven together, and my family would be happy.” 

“Why would you think they’d be happy?” Castiel asked, reaching for another stone and tossing it. 

“You saw what I did.” Dean replied. 

“But you’re not a bad person. You’ve changed.” 

Dean shrugged. “Look, maybe you’re right. Maybe I did change, but it doesn’t change facts.” 

“What facts are those?” Castiel watched Dean pick up another stone and toss it at the water. 

“I’m not easy to love, man. I’m sure their lives would be better without my bullshit. I got Sam trapped in that dimension! After everything I’ve done to him!” Dean picked up yet another stone and tossed it. “You could work at Mystery Spot Inn and then live with me in Heaven when you’re off. And everyone would be happy.” 

“You’re not hard to love.” Castiel insisted, his tone firm, reflecting his sincerity. “I loved you from the moment I got to know you. Gabriel loves you. Samandriel, Muriel, Conrad, and Malachi adore you. And your family loves you. You didn’t trap Sam. He ended up in our world because he was searching for you. He loves you. Their lives wouldn’t be better off without you. To know you, then lose you? It would leave a hole in anyone’s chest.” 

“They would get over it.” Dean simply replied as he skipped another stone. “Just as long as we could be together, what does it matter?” 

Castiel grabbed Dean’s shoulder and forced him to look at him. “It matters because your mother called out to me, pleading for me to save you. It matters because your mother, as misguided as it was, made a deal with a demon to bring you back.” 

Dean’s brows shot up. “Mom knows about demons?”

“Your folks were so desperate to bring you back,” Castiel pressed on, “that they put their trust in me. A being they barely trust just for the shred of a chance that I could save you. As we’re speaking,  your mother and father are watching over us, hoping I can bring their son back home.” 

Dean’s shoulders slumped. “They are?” 

“Yes.” Castiel replied. “And they’ll be heartbroken. Sam is probably trying to find a way to get back to you. If he gets out and you’re gone, it’s going to crush him.”

“Oh god…” Dean looked like he’d be sick. “My brother’s trapped and my mom sold her soul, for me!” 

“We can fix it.” Castiel swore. “I will find a way to get Sam out, and I will make sure whatever deal your mother made is broken. I’ll do it regardless of your decision. You are loved, know that.” He offered his hand. “But the choice is yours, Dean.” 

🍭🍨🍩

Dean gasped as his eyes flew open. He shot up, accidentally ripping his hand from someone’s. He heard his mother sob and when he turned, he found his family by his side. Mary’s eyes were red as she held her hands over her mouth. Even his dad’s eyes were red and wet. Lucifer was there too, and they all looked like they wanted to rush over him. They probably would’ve too, if Cas wasn’t blocking the way as he pushed himself to his knees. 

But what surprised Dean the most, what he couldn’t believe, was that Sammy was there. Sam was here, with him. Not trapped at Mystery Spot Inn, and if that wasn’t unbelievable enough, he was crying too, with a huge smile on his face. 

That alone gave it away. 

It didn’t work; Dean was still trapped in his mind. Only now he was fantasizing about happier scenarios. 

Sam was stuck in a pocket dimension, and even if he wasn’t, after everything Dean had done? He wouldn’t be this emotional about him. 

“How?” Cas asked before Dean could play along with this. 

“You can thank our brothers and mother.” Lucifer smiled proudly. “They managed to create an exit just strong enough to get him out.” 

“Wait!” Dean yelped. “This is real?!” 

“It is.” Cas replied. “You’re finally back on earth.” 

“Welcome back, baby.” Mary told him in a wet voice. 

“Glad to have you back.” John gave him a wobbly smile. 

Dean’s eyes widened as he stared at Sam. Then the next thing he knew, he was word vomiting. “I’m so sorry! I never got to say it when we were together! I wanted to, but I just wanted to wait until you got used to the place, but then–” 

“Dean.” Sam tried, but he couldn’t stop running his mouth. 

“And I stopped hanging out with Lee and my old friends. I made better friends, and I swear I’m not the guy you knew back then! I changed! I’m not some giant asshole that kissed the alpha you were crazy about, and I’m so fucking sorry I ever did. It’s my biggest regret and I hate myself for it, and if you give me a chance, I’ll do whatever it takes to–” 

“Dean! Shut up!” Sam chuckled. “I forgive you! I let go of that anger years ago. Was I still wary about you? Yes, but I forgive you, and I’m done letting the past hold us back. I just want to be brothers again.” 

Dean fell off the couch trying to hug Sam, but his brother caught him, and they stayed like that. Dean wasn’t sure for how long, he just knew it felt fucking amazing. Sammy’s forgiveness was like being able to fully breathe again for the first time in years. It felt amazing because Dean was sure he’d never get to have a second chance. He was sure he’d never see Sammy again. 

Before he knew it, the hug was broken because Lucifer stepped in, pulled him up, and held him in a crushing hug. The archangel laughed as he jumped up and down. “My favorite human is okay!” He cried. “I’m so glad you were Castiel’s true mate, and I didn’t take my time peeling off all your skin because you’re just the most amazing human!” 

“You wanted to do what?!” Sam growled. 

“So glad to have you back!” Lucifer turned, placing Dean on the ground. “Now, go celebrate with your folks. I got a demon to find!” 

With that, Lucifer was gone, and John’s hand was on Dean’s shoulder. His dad gave him a huge smile. “You're one hell of a fighter. So proud of you, son.” 

Dean gulped, trying to keep his own tears a bay. “Thanks dad.” 

His dad pulled him into a crushing hug that lasted seconds before he stepped back so Mary could throw her arms around him. “I missed you so much!” 

“I missed you like crazy!” And this time, Dean couldn’t stop the sob. He enjoyed the hug, something he never thought he’d get to do again. Hugging his mother was the best damn thing in the world. But it didn’t last long before he remembered. He pulled away, but held onto her shoulders. “Tell me it isn’t true! Tell me you didn’t sell your soul!” 

“I didn’t!” Mary cried, stepping away. 

“Wait…” Sam slowly said as he stood up. “Mom? What did you do?” 

“Yes, we need to talk about this.” Castiel added as he walked closer. 

“Tell me you didn’t.” John pleaded. 

“I’m telling you the truth! I didn’t sell my soul!” Mary insisted. 

“Demons don’t do things out of the kindness of their hearts.” Castiel narrowed his eyes at her. “What exactly did you bargain?” 

Dean watched his mom’s shoulders slump. “I saved him.” 

“What?” Dean’s brows shot up. 

“My parents were demonogogists. They summoned Azazel and trapped him. They found ways to torture him. And I…” Mary sighed, turning her face away. “I was more interested in what he was than getting anything out of him. When my parents weren’t around, I would sit and listen to him talk about his kind for hours. Eventually, I couldn’t take it anymore. I freed him.” Mary held her head high. “I summoned him, asked him if he could bring Dean back to me. He owed me; I didn’t give him anything. But Dean…” Her expression almost broke him. “I had no idea the toll it would take on you. He just said he could bring you back, and I didn’t ask any questions. Sam, I had no idea you were stuck there too. I’m so sorry, Dean, Sam, please forgive me.” 

“Oh, mom.” Dean stepped closer and hugged her. “I’m not mad, I love you.” 

“I love you too.” She sobbed. 

Sam stepped in and joined in the hug. “So? Is it really over?” He asked. 

“I think so!” Dean chuckled. He pulled away from the hug and turned to Cas. “So… Looks like I’m earthbound again.” 

Cas gave him a small smile. “Seems like I am as well.” 

Relief filled him. Cas meant it; he would stay with him if they got him back. He wouldn’t leave him behind. Dean’s head turned when John cleared his throat. His dad looked a little uncomfortable. 

“Look, son… I uh… I’m not saying I ain’t happy that you've found yourself an…” John eyed Cas warily. “An alpha… But… How? How did it happen?” 

“Yes!” Mary gasped. “How did you two meet?! What happened while you were gone? Castiel said it was ten months for you!” 

“How much time do you guys have?” Dean laughed. 

“All the time in the world.” John answered. 

Dean took a seat on the couch between Cas and Sam. John pulled the armchair closer before he took a seat, with Mary sitting on the arm. All were eagerly waiting for the insane tale Dean had to tell. 

 

Notes:

Okay, so last night I had a dream that Crowley built a motel and was really proud of it. He invited Sam and Dean to be his guests, but they said no. But Crowley wouldn't take no for an answer. So he tricks Castiel into coming over but then traps him. It's like Sims 2, removes the door. So now Sam and Dean have to come over but Crowley won't let Cas go unless they check into the motel he's so proud of. So they do. But now they can't leave because there's a hellhound making sure they don't leave until they spend the night and they still have to get Cas back by spending the night. There was also a gift shop that Crowley built, and he was really proud of it

 

Okay, now that's over... Holy crap!!! This little idea that took root in my brain and haunted me ever since is almost over! Feels kind of weird! Doesn't feel like I started this fic all that too long ago!

Chapter 30: The End is the Beginning

Today was looking up to be a pretty damn good day. Sure, Dean Winchester’s life was far from normal. His birthday came and passed, on earth, and he had no idea what his age was. His birthday happened Gabriel’s pocket dimieson, but it hadn’t happened on earth. Legally, he was twenty-seven, but was he really twenty-eight? Gabriel bought both twenty-seven and twenty-eight candles for his cake. Dean had a feeling this would become a tradition. 

Oh, and his closet was a gateway to Mystery Spot Inn. Whenever he wanted to visit Gabe and the crew, all he had to do was walk into his closet. When he wanted to return to Earth, he entered an outhouse. 

Speaking of his apartment, he had a live-in boyfriend, who was a freaking angel! Cas was getting the hang of human things, in a way. He only almost caught the apartment on fire twice when trying to cook dinner. And maybe he still preferred to use his wings, appearing out of thin air, and scaring the shit out of people instead of trying to learn how to drive. But hey, they could have as much unprotected sex as they wanted. With the angel sigils on his womb, Dean wouldn’t have a bun in the oven anytime soon. So, if Cas really hated driving, Dean wouldn’t nag him about it. 

It wasn’t just game or movie nights Dean hosted at his apartment for his friends. He was now having tea with Cas’s fairy friends. Dean liked Rowena and her fairy kind when they were casting spells on him. Like the time they made it so that he could understand animals. Or the time they made him forget simple things. Like what a lamp was called and forgetting that Cas was an angel, only to be amazed when Cas reminded him. Or when they took random shit out of his house, watched him lose his mind, only to return it weeks later. 

 

So maybe his life wasn’t normal, but normal be damned. If you asked him, normal was fucking boring.

 

Today was also a great example of how much Dean’s life had changed. Today was July the fourth, and his uncle Bobby always hosted a cookout. Usually, it was Uncle Bobby, Aunt Ellen, and cousin Jo with her boyfriend, Cole. Then it was Dean and his family. Until he blew up his life, and Sammy didn't come around for five years. That changed now, though. Sammy was with them, and so was Jess. The best part was that they didn’t have to worry about money flying back and forth. Not when Lucifer was willing to give them a zap over here. 

And now that Dean was Cas, he was invited, and so was his family. Naomi and Chuck (who was as excited as a pup to learn about this thing humans called cookouts), Michael and Billie, Gabe, and Lucifer, Anael, and their pups, Lilith and Jack. 

To say it was crowded was an understatement. 

To see his family experiencing angels was priceless. 

Dean stepped out of Bobby’s house after grabbing himself another beer and tried to weave through the crowd to make it back to Cas. His parents and Cas’s parents were gathered together, like they always were when they got together. 

“Try it!” Chuck shoved a dish with some form of food Dean had never seen before into John’s face. “Even though we don’t need to eat doesn’t mean we don’t like taste! This is a celestial traditional dish for gatherings!” 

John eyed the squirming green goop like it would eat him back. Dean chuckled as he watched his dad pick up a blob and slowly stick it in his mouth. He chewed it, and the more he chewed, the more surprised he looked. “Wow, this is good. What is it?” 

“Lumivane eggs!” Chuck excitedly replied and John’s face dropped. 

“What?!” 

Chuck noticed Dean and gave him a big smile. “Dean! I tried the thing called hot dogs, you suggested! Holy wings, you humans have the most amazing food!” 

“Glad you like it!” Dean chuckled. 

“Lucifer seems nice.” He overheard his mom tell Naomi. 

“Thank you.” She replied with a proud smile. “I’m very impressed with him. He hasn’t tried to explode anyone in Dean’s family.” She said and Mary paled. “So, when do you think our sons will give us grandpups?” 

“Michael and Billie haven’t yet!” Chuck butted in. “Dean? Are you guys close to trying?” 

“Trying?! They’re not even mated yet!” John cried. 

Dean barked a laugh and made his escape before Chuck lost focus on his dad. If Chuck pulled him into a conversation, he’d never make it back to Cas. However, Dean only made it a couple of steps before two angels came crashing into the yard, making craters.”

“Lilith! Jack! Not so rough! This isn’t Hell! Humans are easily breakable!” Anael scoled. 

Lilith, who looked like a full-grown adult but was still young compared to the other young-looking angels here, and Jack, who looked like he couldn’t be older than twelve but was over twenty years old, ignored her. Jack laughed as he took off into the air with Lilith right behind him.  

“Sorry about that.” Dean heard Anael tell Jess and Sam. Lucifer had his arm wrapped around her waist as they talked. “Listen, we totally have to do that double date thing again. It wasn’t as boring as I thought it would be with you humans.” 

“Thanks?” Jess laughed. 

“Ummm… Well, I uh…” Sam struggled to find a way out, and Dean wasn’t going to help him. 

“Hey!” Lucifer grinned. “Since you guys can’t visit Hell without losing your minds, how about we take you where we come from? Before Hell and all.” 

“What a great idea!” Anael beamed. 

Dean shook his head with a huge smile on his face. He was glad that Lucifer was finally taking time off. He had searched high and low for Azazel. Combed through dimension after dimension, but kept coming up empty-handed. On earth, it had only been months, but for Lucifer, it had been years. He had even searched on every planet in the solar system, but nothing. 

Azazel was just gone, and don’t get Dean wrong, going to Hell sucked. Zero out of Zero, would not recommend. But hey, everything worked out, right? He was back on earth, and so was Sammy. Plus, his mom didn’t have to sell her soul or give anything to him since he owed her. So it all worked out, right? 

“Forget that!” Gabe butted in. “We need to talk about your honeymoon!” Oh yeah, Sam proposed to Jess. When they broke the news, he included Dean and Cas as part of the family. “I just want you guys to know, my motel is totally yours for free.” 

Dean bit down a laugh as he watched the color drain from Sam’s face. “Well… Uh–” 

“It would be the most unique honeymoon destination.” Jess smiled at him. 

He walked away, but froze when he saw Bobby and Ellen talking to Michael and Billie. What could he say? Curiosity got the best of him. He wanted to know how they were dealing with angels.  

“So… Your humans' mating rituals can really take up to years?” Billie asked. 

Bobby shrugged. “Well, uh… I guess you could call it that. We call it dating.” 

“What do you present to your intended mate if you don’t have wings?” She asked. 

“An expensive ring.” Ellen snorted. 

“Interesting.” Michael said, even though the guy only ever had one expression on his face, no emotion. “Ellen? Right?” Ellen nodded. “As an alpha, you had to have picked the most expensive ring to impress your mate, right? What job do you have to make such money? I know money is important to humans.” 

“I own a bar.” She told him. “What do you guys do?” 

“I’m a reaper.” Billie said and Dean loved the horror on his uncle and aunt’s faces. 

“I am the ruler of Heaven.” Michael told them. “But just because my brother is… Dating… Your nephew doesn’t mean you can kill and rob or do anything you want. You still have to earn Heaven by being good.” 

Ellen held up her hands. “I wasn’t planning on it, even before I realized Heaven was real.” 

“You know, I considered running Hell.” Michael told them. “I had a different vision for it.”

Dean quickly moved on from that conversation. Finally, he found Cas, talking with Cole and Jo. Both of them looked overwhelmed by all this. Dean did try to warn them that angels were real and he was bringing them over. They laughed at him, but now it was Dean getting the last laugh. 

“...and that wraps it up for the history of trolls.” Cas said. “Now, for the giants, that’s tricky. See, there are many types of giants. For example, the ice giants–” His words trailed off when he noticed Dean. He gave him a big smile. “Hello.” 

“Told you I’d be back in a flash.” Dean winked before turning to Jo and Cole. “You guys are missing out on Michael running Hell talk.” 

“I think I need more beer for this.” Jo said, and Cole quickly stood up. 

“Same here.” 

Dean chuckled as he took his seat next to Cas and watched them disappear. “You know? You could make a great history teacher when it comes to different species.” 

“But I like working at the gas-n-sip.” Cas told him. “It’s very rewarding, and earning human money is very interesting.” 

Dean bumped their shoulders together. “You keep that job, buddy.” 

Dean sipped on his beer as he watched both of their families bonding. Gabe was catching up with John and Mary. Jack, despite his height, was on Sam’s shoes, holding his hands as they danced together. That kid really took a liking to Sammy for some reason. Lilith had intercepted Jo and Cole’s escape and was talking their heads off. Lucifer and Michael were getting into a heated debate, mostly over Hell, while their mates walked away, chit-chatting with each other. 

Dean didn’t know it could be like this. That both his worlds could come together so effortlessly, but it left him with this feeling. A happy feeling, almost giddy, that everything worked out. 

That somehow, it all worked out for someone like him. 

“How’s Gabe holding up without you?” He asked. 

“Oh, he never needed me.” Cas told him. “He just tugged me along because I was his favorite brother and I… I didn’t know what I wanted to do with my life. He did hire Anna. He said to help out, but I think he really wanted to have someone run the place so he could pop in on us whenever he wanted to.” 

“Yeah…” There had been some… Incidents with Gabe popping in at the worst times. 

Even out of Mystery Spot Inn, they were at risk of interruptions. 

“Do you think it’ll always feel this good?” He asked. 

Cas hummed, resting his head on Dean’s shoulder. “I think as long as I have you in my life, it will.” 

Dean couldn’t argue with that. 

It wouldn’t always be easy street, but as long as he had Cas, life would be amazing. 

 

Notes:

Whew, I won't lie, it doesn't matter how many fics I complete, it always feels weird finishing it up lol. And the crazy thing is? This started out as a sprinto prompt on Discord. "Have your character trap", that was the prompt that gave birth to this idea and quickly took over my brain. I had almost the whole thing planned out in my head before I even finished writing chapter 1!

So thank you all for your love and support for this story. 💙

Now I can get back to my book book now lmao

Wait! I hear what you're thinking! RNF? What the Hell?! What about Azazel and the deal? You wouldn't really just forget to wrap up that loose end, would you?

And the answer is, I totally did that on purpose! Because I'm insane and planned a sequel!

So until then, thank you all again 💙

Series this work belongs to:

• Part 1 of Mystery Spot Inn