Undeserving
Dean and Cas stare at each other for a long time. Dean is hoping, praying, that even without his mojo Cas can read his mind. He can't work out what words to say, how to express the way he feels, and he needs Cas to just get it, to see through him like he always has.
But Cas blinks and is the first to turn away.
Dean snags his sleeve. "Cas, wait-"
Cas looks at him, head slightly tilted, a question in his eyes.
Dean nervously runs his fingers through his hair. He has no better idea of what to say now than he had ten seconds ago. All he knows is that he can't watch Cas leave, not again.
"There was a time when I didn't think I deserved to be saved," Dean says, stilted and unsure. "But you saved me anyway. And I have never thought I deserve to be happy, but being with you… it makes me happy. I know I don't deserve to be loved, but do you think that maybe… you could… someday…?" Dean trails off, realising how stupid he sounds. "I'm sorry, never mind, I know you have better places to be…"
"Dean," Cas says. He looks deep into Dean's eyes and Dean can barely breathe. "If you wanted me to stay, all you had to do was ask."
"Stay," Dean blurts, so quickly that he surprises a chuckle out of Cas.
"Okay," Cas agrees.
Dean tugs him a little closer and Cas comes willingly but even so, Dean is uncertain that this is really what the ex-angel wants.
Cas slips a hand behind Dean's neck and closes the distance. "In answer to your question, Dean… I already do."
Distracted by the sight of soft lips, Dean doesn't get it at first. "Hmm, what?"
"I love you."
"Oh." Dean is startled and doesn't know what to say.
Cas kisses him.
They separate after an eternity and all of Dean's nerves have melted away. He smiles, feeling mushy and content. "I love you, too."