Written for How Many Do You Ship? Challenge (Deamus) and the Chutes and Ladders Challenge (I'm here to stay)


"You're back," Seamus says, and maybe he should feel silly for stating the obvious, but he's spent months dreaming of the day that Dean would return to him.

Dean grins, embracing his boyfriend. "Even better. I'm here to stay."

Seamus wants to point out that that isn't particularly reassuring. A battle is about to break out, and there's no promising that either of them will survive. But he keeps this to himself. Dean is back, and maybe their time together is limited, but Seamus will make the best of what he has.

He holds Dean closer. For once, there is no fear of what others will think of their relationship. For once, he doesn't care that they're out in the open. And no one seems to mind. It's almost funny how relieving that is.

"I never thought I would see you again," Seamus admits.

"I never had any doubts that I would," Dean chuckles. "You're what kept me going when I was on the run, you know. I just knew that I had to get back to you."

Seamus feels a twinge of guilt twist his insides. He had lost faith, and Dean hadn't. "Dean, I-"

Dean cups his hands against Seamus' face, kissing him fiercely as though trying to make up for every kiss they've gone without over those long, painful months. "Doesn't matter," he whispers. "All that matter is that we're here now. And I'm not leaving your side."

Seamus nods, a grin breaking out across his face. It's almost funny. He's spent so much time giving up hope, losing the will to fight. But Dean is there, so strong and steady, and Seamus feels the spark ignite inside of him.

"Whoever takes down the fewest Death Eaters buys dinner," he says.

Dean laughs. "Well, I look forward to you treating me tomorrow night then."

Seamus can't remember how long it's been since he's felt hope. But now it's back, and Dean is by his side, he starts to think that maybe, just maybe, there's still a chance.