Hello everyone, I hope you all had a great holiday and if not I at least hope 2019 is a bit more promising than the year 2018 was. I apologize for uploading so late and infrequently but as many other authors have done in the past, life happened and things got in the way so I couldn't prioritize this story until the dust finally settled. I've been working on it sporadically throughout the year, editing and rewriting as I went, but I'm finally happy with the finished product and hope you enjoy. I'm not sure whether to also include Sabriel or leave it strictly Destiel but if you have a preference please let me know in a review, they honestly keep me going and stoke the flames for inspiration. This chapter I actually struggled on a lot, I didn't know if I was taking the story to slow or to fast but I went with what felt natural and tried to keep it at a good length. I hope you all have a wonderful new years, rejoice and stay wild.
-Bel
Dean woke up the next morning hissing in pain, which he begrudgingly assumed would be the norm from here on out, the incessant throbbing beneath his cast similar to the bass in a club. Unrelenting in its intensity and with no end in sight, Dean scrambled to sit up, grabbing the remote for the bed to angle forward and let him easily slide out. Blearily he looked around to find the pill bottles that held his pain meds and dryly swallowed two from the weaker prescription. He looked up at the ceiling, his right hand gripping and rubbing at his thigh, praying for the pills to hit soon so the pulsing could stop. He should have set an alarm on his phone so he could take them as they were instructed, he did not want a repeat of this morning anytime soon.
At the thought of his phone, Dean vaguely remembered receiving a message before he passed out last night and reached out to find his cell. After a few panicked pats-of-searching, he found it and swiped it open.
'It's 5 o'clock in the morning?!' Dean thought to himself, his eyes bugging out at the ridiculous time.
"Fuck me, it is way too early for this…" Dean growled out, running a tired hand down his face and sniffling his nose. He then checked his inbox and saw he had a new text from Cas.
Instantaneously the sleep in Dean drained away only leaving a rush of adrenaline, causing the blood to rush in his ears and for the throbbing in his leg to increase. He also felt a warming sensation cross over his cheeks and knew he was blushing.
"C'mon Winchester, keep it together. Acting like a friggin' teenager."
He clicked on the text and read it with eager eyes.
Cas: You're most likely asleep by now,
but I hope you're enjoying being back home. I just got off from work.
Long day but finally going home. How are you adjusting?
Do you need anything?
He read the time stamp and saw that Cas had replied a few hours ago. He originally wanted to try and call Cas but at this ungodly hour the doctor was probably asleep. Dean settled on replying via text anyways since he was up anyways. He paused for a second, debating what to type back to the doctor but decided to reply something casual and nothing too cheeky though he'd be lying if he didn't want to at least tease the man a little.
Dean: Just woke up. Pain.
Long day? Everything ok?
yeah home is good Sammy got me a fancy hospital bed to help me in and out.
Don't need anything yet but I can't believe you gave me a cane.
Calling me old?
Satisfied, Dean hit send and put the phone in his pocket before grabbing his cane so he could make his way to the bathroom. After tending to his immediate needs, he flushed and limped to his kitchen eager for a snack, he needed something to accompany the pills he took earlier and to also quell the monster he called a stomach. Dean rummaged through his pantry, taking care not too make too much noise so he wouldn't wake Bobby up, and settled on some protein bars he didn't know he had.
He hungrily munched on them while pouring himself a glass of milk to wash them down and leaned against his fridge, silently indulging in his early morning snack. He closed his eyes and enjoyed the calmness of his condo. He could vaguely hear the morning bus that drove pass or the distant honking of horns, the high chirps of the birds screaming their greeting to the rising sun and the distant fog horn of the cargo ships echoing from the bay.
He stood there, draped in the dull blue glow of the early morning light and hummed contentedly, the morning chill comfortable from inside his home and enjoying the fullness from his snack.
Dean slowly limped over to the window to pull back the curtains and opened the sliding door just a crack so he could lean against the frame and look out onto the quiet street. He lived in a somewhat quiet neighborhood in the small city, in an area where it was convenient to catch the bus if needed but not too close to the nightlife, which he realized was a rare find. He saw a few joggers and some people who probably just got off a night shift, their tired shuffling an indication of their exhaustion.
"Hmm...been there, done that my friend." Dean mumbled to himself between bites of his protein bar and stuffed the now empty wrapper in his pocket, too lazy to walk back into the kitchen to throw it away. Dean stood there for a couple more minutes, just breathing in the crisp morning air and letting the morning mist cool his heated skin.
A sudden breeze rushed past Dean, ruffling his hair and clothes as it did so and he immediately felt a sharp pang in his thigh from the cold. Cursing, Dean closed the sliding door and carefully made his way to the couch so he could put up his leg and maybe catch a few more minutes of sleep until Bobby woke up. He settled comfortably into his couch and pulled one of the throws he had hanging off the back of the couch to cover his legs before resting his head against one of the pillows. After a few painful grunts and re-positioning himself, a satisfied Dean crossed his arms across his chest and let his eyes close, letting the calm morning lull him back to sleep for as long as he could.
Which would only be about two hours until Bobby was shaking Dean awake and yelling at him for moving without calling for help.
"I'm not totally useless Bobby, okay?" Dean growled out grumpily, shifting the blanket further to cover his chin. "I got up to take a leak on my own and then I got hungry. I figured I could handle that without having to speed dial the A-Team. Besides, you need all the sleep you can get, ya old goat."
And that earned Dean a slap on the head and a string of colorful curses that would make any sailor, or comedian worth their salt, blush.
The day went by uneventfully for Dean. Sam ended up stuck at work for most of the day to try and catch up with the company, even going so far as calling to cancel lunch and possibly dinner. Dean still hadn't heard from Cas and was debating on whether writing the doctor another text would be a good idea, but in the end decided against it.
So, Dean shambled and shuffled every which way across his home, heard all the hay-day stories from Bobby that he already knew by heart and scrolled through all the awful day time television he could. It was like reading shampoo instructions: pain, pill, water, food, walk, rest repeat. Pain, pill, water, food, walk, rest, repeat.
Just when all hope seemed lost a loud bang on Deans front door made both mens head turn to look.
"You expectin' company boy?" Bobby asked warily.
"Not that I know of."
Dean made a move towards the door but Bobby got up and took a look through the peephole. Bobby then let out a small chuckle and opened the door.
Well, he tried to anyways.
The door wasn't even open an inch when it burst open to reveal a somewhat stout man with comically baby blue eyes, with his arms outstretched and a wide smile on his face.
"Come right on in why dontcha…" Bobby grumbled, having just missed the door hit his face.
"Ah, merci Robert, mais où est…" the man asked, looking around the room when his eyes landed on Dean.
"Benny?"
The man clapped his hands and dramatically cupped his hands over the area where his heart was before moving across the room with surprising elegance.
"Mon amour je suis arrivé, ton sauveur, votre raison de vivre." Benny babbled on in French, his hands reaching out for Dean.
Dean rolled his eyes, trying to hide his smile but failing while shaking his head.
"Son of a bitch, when did you get back from New Orleans?!" Dean asked while he was then enveloped in a crushing hug from the man, almost being lifted off his feet.
"I was on the first flight out once I heard the news about you and your accident. I had to hear it from Garth of all people, can you believe that?"
Dean then felt his stomach sink.
He never did reach out to Benny about his car accident but then he remembered the last time he and Benny spoke, Benny was away on some work trip and would be gone for awhile, something about a big business deal, lots of money involved. But...yeah okay maybe a text to let the man know wouldn't have killed him.
"Oh crap…" Dean whispered, ready to get his ass handed to him via rant a-la Benny.
"Oh crap is right. I swear, you Winchesters are somethin' else. Not one call, not one letter or even a telegram was sent out to let me know my best friend was half dead."
"I mean...I got better." Dean weakly defended but Benny wasn't having it.
"Luckily, I managed to finish up most of the grunt work and was able to wrap everything up in record time. I bought a ticket, a very expensive ticket I might add, so I could see you first thing. So, I'm here and ready to spoil the hell out of you until you get sick of me."
"Did you literally just get off the flight? Just now?" Bobby asked, rolling 2 suitcases in from the hallway so he could close the door.
"Oui ma cherie, when I heard the love of my lifes' life was in danger, well, there was nothing that could stop me from seeing Dean-o here as quickly as possible." Benny joked but looked evenly at Dean, clapping the green eyed man's shoulders.
"But really...I was worried sick about you the entire plane ride. When Garth told me, I just kept thinking the worst yanno? I'm glad you're still alive and kickin' brother." Dean noticed the slight warble to Bennys voice, the tightness in how he spoke and the slight shimmer in his eyes.
Dean scoffed lightly and put his good hand on Bennys shoulder, squeezing it reassuringly.
"Not that easy to kill me Benny," Dean half smiled, taking a deep breath to steady his own voice. "But...yeah good to still be here, someone's gotta stick around to annoy you and Sammy."
Both men laughed lightly before embracing one another tightly, both glad to see each other.
Benny was a welcomed distraction and it also gave time for Dean to catch up with his old friend. All three men were sat at the dining table, sharing a light snack as they talked.
"So how'd it go down in New Orleans? Did you manage to do that secret thing you haven't told me, yanno, your best friend about?" Dean spoke between bites.
"Hey! Don't get fresh…" Bobby defended for Benny, even going so far as to throwing a nut at Deans head.
"Hurts doesn't it? When a major life changing event happens to your best friend and you don't know nothin' about it? Hmm, wonder what that feels like." Benny mocked, an amused expression written plain across his face.
"Yeah, alright smart-ass. But don't put that on me. You kept this from me from the get-go. So spill, what's goin' on man."
Benny rolled his eyes but broke out into a wide smile, his baby blue eyes shining in excitement.
"Well, as you know my restaurant is all about southern comfort food. Authentic New Orleans cuisine, actual family recipes handed down from generation to generation. I was trying to take a page out from Bobbys book here to start expanding out, turn my joint into a chain, introduce areas that ain't never had a taste of creole cuisine. But I wanted to base the flagship place in New Orleans, to my utter dismay the joint was already being scoped out by another potential buyer. So me and some other chef got into a bidding war for the lot and well…" Benny smiled slyly and clicked his tongue making both Bobby and Dean break out in laughter.
"Sucker never even had a chance did he?" Bobby asked.
"Not even a little. After all was said and done, I finished signing over the lease before I left, and my assistant is taking care of the rest as we speak. Laffite is officially going national gentlemen." Benny announced with an air of pride, both Dean and Bobby congratulating the man.
"I think this calls for a drink." Dean got up from his spot and slowly hobbled his way over to the kitchen to sort through his mini bar.
"By the by, where is the Sasquatch anyways?"
"He got caught up at work, said he won't be by till late." Bobby replied, glancing at Dean for a second. "Did he ever say exactly when?"
"Uh...probably 9ish or 10. He usually works that late when he's slammed." Dean began to pour 3 glasses for them, choosing a whiskey that he knew Bobby particularly liked.
Benny looked at his watch and adjusted his hat. "Then that gives me plenty of time to go grocery shopping, cook you boys something. Think you're up for an outing brother?"
Dean was mid pour before taking a moment to think. "Hell, a few more of these and a pill or two, I should be." He took the 3 glasses and handed them out before raising his glass.
"To Benny."
"Aw shucks darlin'." Benny cooed.
Bobby just rolled his eyes and downed his drink, Benny and Dean following suit before getting ready to leave.
Cas wasn't sure how to respond to Deans' message and before he could think of something, Gabriel had dragged him out to run some last minute errands around the city. They were currently in a food boutique store that sold one of Gabriel's favorite candy bars and the blonde haired man couldn't choose between his usual and a new flavor, so he asked Cas which to pick. Castiel gave a vague answer while he checked his phone, his fingers tentatively typing a response to Dean when said phone was suddenly snatched away from him.
"Gabriel!"
"Spare me. You've been sighing wistfully every time you check your phone like a lovesick woman. I'm gonna keep this until we get back home."
"Gabriel, seriously give it back. The hospital might call or text me in case of an emergency."
Gabriel rolled his eyes and looked at Castiel with a unamused expression.
"You mean...if Dean calls you in case of an emergency."
A light blush dusted Castiels' cheeks before he turned away, looking out the shops window and clenching his jaw.
"Uh huh, thought so. You've lived without Dean years before, you can live a few more hours without him." Gabriel turned his attention back to his very important matter at hand; his choice in which chocolate bar to choose.
"You make it sound like I'm obsessed with him." Cas grumbled, his fingers running over the artisinal oils that were on display, slightly pouting as he went.
"I'm no Miss Cleo but I do have enough foresight to see you're not that far off baby brother. Both parties included."
Cas tilted his head curiously, narrowing his eyes in suspicion. "Is this your way of saying you disapprove? Of all people I was sure you'd be for it, with your tenacity to bend and or break the rules. You always were the rebellious one."
Gabriel hummed in agreement, snapping his fingers to then point at Cas.
"I never said I disapprove but what kind of big brother would I be if I didn't give you a fair warning. I've seen you in love before Cassy, but this thing with Dean…it's different."
Before Castiel could correct Gabriel that he and Dean were not yet in a relationship, the smaller man cut him off with a dismissive wave of his hand, his eyes darting between candy bar to candy bar, too preoccupied with the task at hand instead of the conversation.
"And you're right. I do. Rebel I mean, what can I say it's in my nature. But you do realize we're related yeah? That same rebellious streak that I wear with pride is something you try to deny yourself. I've had years to indulge and perfect it, turn it into a piece of pure art. Hell, if you were to look up the very definition of the word, my handsome face would be the first damned thing you'd see."
A woman standing not too far from them giggled, no doubt in response to Gabriel.
Castiel rolled his eyes, crossing his arms. "I'm not going to apologize for wanting to follow the rules. I'm assuming there's a point to all this?"
"What I'm saying is, you're like a kid in a candy store for the first time and unsupervised by an adult." Gabriel picked up both candy bars and tapped them against Castiels' chest, clicking his teeth. "And your pretty boyfriend Dean Winchester is about to become your favorite chocolate bar." Gabriel gently brushed past him to check out at the register, leaving Cas with his thoughts.
Okay, fine maybe Gabriel had a point. He could have his rebellious moments. His most famous to date would be leaving the Novak household, just as Gabriel had done, but Gabriel wasn't the first. Maybe he should have seen this coming, that the 3 brothers that got along the most were the ones to leave.
Cas then let his thoughts wander to Dean Winchester, as they had been doing much more often since getting to know the man. Even though he hadn't know the green eyed man long, he certainly liked what he knew so far and was willing to find out more about the older Winchester. Cas knew what he felt for Dean, or what he was starting to feel for the man, was different than any other relationship he's had in the past. How Dean managed to break his usually cool composure and level headedness with only a few words. How incredibly wild and vibrant Dean was compared to the doctor, Castiel felt a bit dull compared to him, even surprised that the man was so passionate in his pursuit to 'court' him. Maybe that's why he was falling so quickly for Dean. Beautiful Dean with his impossible-to-describe colored eyes, that stupid grin he'd do when he'd make an obviously lewd joke or his obsession with pie (of all things honestly).
Cas smiled to himself at the thought of the man, his mouth full of pie still wearing that grin. Castiel let out a small laugh before shaking his head, joining his brother at the register.
Maybe his brother was right.
The two Novak brothers were leaving the shop when Gabriel whispered under his breath, stopping in his tracks.
"Hot damn, speak of the devil."
Cas frowned at his brother.
"I know we don't practice our religion anymore but honestly, speaking like that is s-"
Gabriel grabbed Cas' chin, cutting him off, to make him look out to the street where 3 men were climbing out from a rental car.
Of the 3 men only one really mattered to Castiel.
"Cas?"
Green met blue and both men stood still, staring dumbly at one another until Gabriel shoved Cas forward, making the younger Novak stumble a bit.
"Uh, um...yes hello, Dean." Cas stuttered over his words, quickly trying to smooth out any non-existent wrinkles on his clothes. Deans' eyes followed his hands as he went, subconsciously licking his lips before he had enough sense to clear his throat.
"Heya Cas, I didn't know you lived out here? I thought you said you lived near Noe Valley. "
"No, uh…I mean I do but Gabriel likes this shop for their sweets, specifically their variety in chocolate. He made me tag along with him."
"Bet you're glad I did huh little brother?" Gabriel called out from behind him. Castiel could hear the smirk in his voice.
Dean chuckled and waved at Gabriel, Dean wasn't sure whether to hate or love the man for trying to play cupid for him and Cas.
"Do you live out here?" Cas asked.
"Nah, Benny needed some ingredients for dinner tonight so we're stopping by the store here since he's friends with the owner. Hey! You should come by tonight." Dean exclaimed brightly.
Before Castiel could accept or decline, a voice spoke up from behind Dean.
"Who's comin' by tonight?"
Cas looked behind Dean to the unknown voice and met the eyes of a baby blue eyed man with a baker's boy hat.
"Ah, sorry man. Cas this is Benny. Benny, Cas. The 'angel' I was telling you about."
Benny reached out his hand, taking off his hat and placing it over his heart.
"Evenin'. Name's Benny Lafitte, Dean hasn't shut up about you since we've got into the car. Glad I can finally put a face to the name."
Cas shook his hand, nodding in greeting, a blush dusting his cheeks at the nickname.
"Castiel Novak. The short migraine with arms and legs behind me is my brother, Gabriel Novak." Cas pointed over his shoulder gesturing at his older brother.
"So I should be makin' dinner for...4, 5, 6?"
"Oh, thanks but count me out, as much as I'd love to see my Sammy, I've got a hot date tonight but I'm sure my bro will do me proud by repping me. Wontcha Cassy?"
"Wait, wait, wait...'your' Sammy? First of all I did not just hear you calling dibs on my brother, secondly only I get to call him that."
"Yeah, these Winchesters take their brotherly bond to a whole 'nother level. I wouldn't mess with it." Benny warned.
Gabriel laughed before he stood in front of Dean and clapped his hand on Deans' shoulder, squeezing slightly.
"Don't worry Dean-o. I won't let you get in the way of me and my Sammich. Besides, not much you can do, with you walking around with a cane and all that." Gabriel taunted.
Dean raised an eyebrow and raised his chin, gripping the cane tightly.
"Yeah? Keep talkin' like that about my brother and I'll show you a disappearing act involving you and this cane."
"Oooh, is that a promise Winchester?" Gabriel challenged, wiggling his eyebrows and pursing his lips. "Don't tease me with a good time."
Castiel groaned and pinched the bridge of his nose, clenching his eyes shut.
"Give me strength…" he muttered under his breath, taking a deep breath so he wouldn't be tempted to commit fratricide in front of his potential prospect.
"Are we done here? I'm not getting any younger listening to you two smart-asses. Poor Cas looks like he's about to have an aneurysm." Bobby barked out, startling the group as if they had forgotten the older man was there listening to them.
"Sorry Bobby." Dean mumbled, loosening his grip on the cane but only just.
"Was he here this entire time?" Gabriel whispered to Cas which only earned him an elbow to the gut.
"C'mon Robert let's just meet up these knuckleheads at the store." Benny put an arm around Bobby, both men walking towards the grocery store, Bennys voice fading as they left. "Now about tonight's dinner, you're not trying to watch your cholesterol or anythin'?"
Dean leant against his cane for support before speaking.
"Look Cas, I'm sorry-" Dean started but Cas cut him off.
"Don't be sorry just because my brother is psychotic. He's a mess but...unfortunately he's my mess and believe it or not I'm used to these antics of his. It shouldn't surprise me anymore but I guess that's just my brothers unrelenting charm." Cas faked smiled at Gabriel and sighed, rubbing the back of his neck.
"Aw Cassy, I'm your mess?"
One look from Cas and Gabriel visibly paled before he laughed nervously, raising his hands up in defense. "Alright, alright. I'll wait for you in the car."
"That'd be for the best Gabriel." Cas scolded.
Dean tried to hide his laugh while he watched Gabriel scurry away like a frightened rabbit.
"Oh man, you've gotta show me how to do that, it could come in handy when I gotta scare Sammy into doing things."
Cas tilted his head questioningly and Dean felt his mouth dry up, that damned head tilt made every thought in Deans head grind to a halt and all he could do was just stare at the doctor. Cas was looking the most comfortable in a simple ribbed dark blue sweater, beige slacks and a pale green dress shirt that folded over the collar of his sweater. The two of them just stared at one another, Cas lost in Deans green eyes and Dean drowning in Cas'. It took a group of people to pass between them to break their eye contact and both men blushed furiously, stepping back, trying to cover their cheeks with the back of their hands.
"So uh, yeah Benny is making dinner tonight and I'd love for you to come, if you're not busy. I can't promise Sam will be there but you already know Bobby and Benny's great."
Cas opened his mouth to speak, he was about to say he would love to go but looking closer at Deans face, the thin sheen of sweat clear on his skin and the way he was leaning awkwardly against his cane just showed how Cas how much pain Dean was in, even if the man wasn't saying it out loud.
"I...I'd love to Dean honest, but I have work tomorrow and I don't want to put you out by overexerting yourself on my account." It was a lame excuse, Cas knew it, but he could tell Dean was suffering just trying to stand up and Castiel would never forgive himself if he caused Dean even longer lasting harm simply because he wanted the man to himself even for a couple more minutes.
Dean felt his heart drop but tried not to let it show on his face. Then he saw Cas' brows furrow and those beautiful blue eyes droop in a way that could rival Eeyore.
'Play it cool Winchester, be smooth.' He thought to himself, swallowing thickly before speaking.
"Dean it's not because I don't want to but-" Cas started before he was interrupted by a stuttering Dean.
"Well, look how about just for a cup of coffee or-"
"Dean-" but Cas was cut off again but this time with a wave of Deans' hand, annoying the doctor to no end that he couldn't finish what he wanted to say.
"Nah, yeah it was a dumb idea. Don't sweat it, it's stupid and last minute-" then suddenly Dean was cut off in the best way anyone could be cut off.
Cas gently grabbed the lapels of Deans jacket and pressed himself up against Dean, kissing the man with the sweetest kiss since their last one at the hospital. Maybe even better according to Dean, since this time he was actually standing. Dean could feel Cas' stubble rub across his palm as he cupped the mans cheek, his thumb softly swiping across the warm tanned skin. Because Dean was leaning on his cane, and Castiel being slightly shorter than the blonde, the kiss was clumsy and new, it was teeth clicking against teeth and soft embarrassed laughs when their noses bumped into one another. Dean was sure if this was a movie, some sort of acoustic guitar would be playing in the background and some talented but obscure English singer would be softly singing along as they kissed. It was terribly cliche but, with the way the doctor tasted on his tongue and the feel of his lean body against his, Dean didn't think it was so cliche anymore.
To his surprise Cas took the lead in the kiss, the doctor was a surprisingly good kisser once they got into the rhythm of things. It was almost a nice change of pace, letting someone else take control, not that Dean was complaining since he was usually what you would call the 'dominant' one, he was enjoying this sudden domineering side of his usually shy doctor.
Before he could break the kiss, Cas hummed in pleasure, even dragging his teeth against the bottom of Deans' lip. To Cas, Dean tasted like whiskey and strong coffee. Deans eyes were hazy as he just stared dumbly at Cas, too lovestrucked to say or do much of anything other than smack his lips together, the subtle taste of honey and chocolate lingering on his tongue.
"You talk too much." Cas whispered huskily, his rough voice doing sinful things to Deans' vivid imagination.
Dean licked his lips, eyes hazy and a half smile lingering on his lips.
"If it means I get kisses like that then I'm never shutting up." Dean wrapped his good arm around the doctors waist and brought him close so Dean could press his lips softly against Cas's, just letting his lips barely touch the mans own. Cas tried to resist the urge to simply grab the man and make a scene right in public but he kept his composure and kept the second kiss short. After a few moments they pulled away from one another but kept their hands interlaced, their fingers rubbing against the others skin as if committing the feel to memory.
"Don't tempt me Dean, I know quite a few...creative ways on how to keep you quiet." Cas teased promisingly.
Dean raised an eyebrow in surprise and chuckled, pulling a hand free to pick up Cas's tie, letting the silken fabric slip through his fingers.
"You're painting quite the colorful picture Cas, you gonna make good on that promise?"
"I am a man of my word Dean." Cas looked at Dean evenly, his gaze intense and his proud chin lifted with an air of authority.
Dean chuckled, his spine slightly tingling in excitement about the commanding tone of Cas' voice. "Yes sir."
Cas took a step back and took Deans' hand, kissing the inside of his palm with an air of promise and looked up at Dean.
"Take care of yourself Dean, I'll be sure to keep in touch." and with that Cas winked, a devilish smile playing on the corners of his lips.
Dean just looked on with a dumb grin on his face, riding a love-high and just let out an unintelligible grunt of agreement, watching the doctor walk by him to get into the car where a grinning Gabriel was looking out from the backseat window, munching on a chocolate bar.
"Hate to see you go but love to watch you walk away." Dean mumbled to himself, rubbing the pad of his thumb over his bottom lip, a hint of honey still lingering on the tip of his tongue and watched the Novak brothers drive away.
Benny bought what he needed from the grocery store and took the time to find the owner so the two of them could catch up for a moment, both men glad to see one another. Once they had said their hello's and how are you's they parted ways and the 3 men made their way back to Deans condo. In the car Benny prodded Dean about what happened between him and Cas after he and Bobby had left. Dean spared no details, to Bobbys' dismay.
Once they got back to Deans condo, he could already feel heavy fatigue from the outing and from walking around the store.
"Hey Benny I'm gonna lay down for a bit, make sure you wake me up when the food is ready. I don't wanna miss dinner."
"You sure? I don't mind putting a plate aside for you to eat tomorrow if you're that tired."
Dean shook his head and waved his hand dismissively.
"Nah, being out just took a lot more out of me than I thought. I'll be fine once I take a nap."
"If you say so brother." Benny gave Dean a salute and started working on cooking for tonight, already giving Bobby tasks to help prepare.
Dean made his way to his room, grabbing his bottle of pain pills and dry swallowed a couple to help with the pain and to hopefully help him fall asleep faster. He got into the hospital bed and kept his phone nearby incase Sam or Cas contacted him while he was napping, putting it on vibrate so it wouldn't deafen him while he slept. Dean grunted and hissed while he got comfortable, the throbbing in his leg an almost audible feeling against his cast. He tried to steady his breathing and massage his thigh hoping it'd help lessen the pain, the haunting words of Alistair a whisper in his ears. Dean cursed and growled under his breath, the pain mounting as the seconds passed by with no sign of it abating. Dean reached over to grab the bottle of pills again and read the label, wondering if he could double dose without it harming him.
'Well the bottle says 'as needed' so what the hell.' Dean thought.
He took another 2 pills and swallowed them, putting the bottle back on his nightstand before laying down. Sure enough a couple minutes later he could feel his body tingling, the sensation starting at the tips of his fingers and toes then spreading throughout his body and a numbing sensation following that. His body started to feel both heavy and weightless, his eyes going in and out of focus and his head the only true thing weighing him down. Dean felt the pain in his leg go from hot and searing to a slight itch all over his body and the rushing in his ears slow to an occasional beat which Dean was sure wasn't healthy but all he cared about was that his leg didn't hurt and he felt...numb. Like the previous night, Dean let himself be pulled into a deep sleep and wouldn't wake up until Benny woke him up for dinner.
Sam didn't manage to leave the office until late that same night, exhausted from catching up on weeks worth of work and also trying to build up a case against that Dr. Alastair Masters. He originally was going to go home and continue to catch up on work but when he got the text that Benny was in town, and willing to cook dinner, Sam changed his evening plans immediately. After a quick goodbye to the front desk and security, Sam quickly drove over to Deans condo so he could stuff himself with Bennys' cooking and check up on his brother. He rode the elevator up to Deans floor and used his spare key to let himself in and immediately let out a groan of pleasure as the scent of Bennys' cooking hit his nostrils, the warmth of the condo relieving his aches and pains from sitting at a desk all day.
"God that smells amazing Benny."
Sam surprised both Bobby and Benny, the two spinning to look at Sam from the kitchens island.
"Well look who's decided to join us." Benny walked over to Sam and wrapped him up in a crushing hug. Sams' eyes nearly bulged out from their sockets while he tried to return the hug, taken aback from the chef's strength.
"Some party, where's Dean?" Sam noticed his brother was missing from the welcome party.
"He's taking a dirt nap until the food's ready, told us to wake him up once it was done."
Sam took a quick look at the clock.
"Yeah? When was that?"
Bobby thought about it for a moment before answering. "Been about 5 hours now. Don't worry, I checked on him to make sure he was still breathing. He's fine, I think the trip out to the grocery store knocked him out." Bobby reassured Sam.
Sam took a seat at one of the bar-stools under the island and undid his coat and tie.
"Really? How did he do?"
"He did pretty well, all things considered. I think what tired him out the most was bumping into Castiel and his brother, couple-a-cards those two." Benny joked. "Reminds me of when you and Dean get into it sometimes."
Sam raised his eyebrows in surprise.
"What were they doing there?" Sam tossed his coat over the back of the couch and rolled up his sleeves, trying to get comfortable. Benny and Bobby told Sam the story of how they bumped into the Novak brothers and how they left the two lovebirds alone while they caught up on Bennys shopping list. Sam let out a loud laugh and shook his head.
"I gotta say, I'm flattered Gabriel thinks I'm such a catch but that guy just won't give up will he."
"I mean Sam, if you wanna start playing for the other team you won't get any judgement from Bobby or I." Benny teased, giving Sam a wink. Bobby smacked the chef upside the head and frowned.
"I think I've had enough flirting to last me a lifetime after today, tone it down will you."
Sam chuckled and rolled his eyes.
"I'm good Benny. I'm perfectly secure with my sexuality."
Sam took another look at the clock and furrowed his brows.
"Shouldn't we wake Dean up? It's been a while now and a hungry Dean is a scary Dean."
All three men agreed.
"Uh, you go first Sam. Go on, say hi to your brother." Benny suggested nervously.
Sam narrowed his eyes at Benny and crossed his arms. "Don't tell me you're scared of waking up my brother."
Benny had a haunting look in his eyes, his gaze distant as he recalled on some memories.
"Rooming with your brother in college will forever scar me, trust me I've learned my lesson. You're his brother, he won't uppercut you."
"That was once! And he was having a nightmare!" Sam protested.
"Once too many Sam. You go."
Sam huffed in annoyance but got up and went to go wake Dean, muttering under his breath while Benny and Bobby snickered behind him.
Sam knocked on Deans door just in case his brother was awake but when he received no answer he opened the door anyways. He flicked on the light and sure enough his brother was still passed out on the bed, one arm over his stomach and the other over his eyes. Sam walked over to the bed and sat on the edge, carefully shaking Dean awake so as not to jostle his remaining injuries.
"Dean, wake up. Dinners ready."
Dean snorted once, the arm over his eyes shifting to cover his chest and giving Sam a good view for him to look at his brothers face he see how exhausted Dean was. The circles under his eyes were shadowed and almost red, his skin color was pale, his tan from the past summer almost non-existent and the sheen of sweat on his skin made Sam think Dean was running a fever. Sam furrowed his brows in worry but looking back on the day Dean had, it made sense he'd look so worn out. He gently reached over to slap Deans cheek and properly wake up the man. When Dean didn't stir Sam tried once more before he huffed out annoyed, crossing his arms over his chest and rolling his eyes.
"Dean c'mon. Wake up or I'll pour water on you."
"Do that and you're a dead man." Dean murmured sleepily, his eyes still closed.
Sam smirked and continued to annoy the sleeping man.
"Bennys' done with dinner and I know how slightly annoyed you get when you don't eat."
Dean grunted and wiped his hand over his face, trying to rub the sleep from his eyes. He couldn't believe how tired he felt. If Sam was here then it must be late, there was no way his brother managed to get out of work early after trying to catch up on weeks worth of work.
"How long have I been out?"
"Bobby says about 5 hours."
Dean cursed and flopped his head back onto his pillow which only sent the room spinning, he tightly shut his eyes so he could reorient himself.
"Feels like I only got half an hour, I'm so freakin' tired."
"I bet, Benny told me you ran into Castiel today. You gonna fill me in on the details of how that went or am I gonna have to just assume the worst of my brother?"
Dean grinned and suddenly had the energy to tell his brother what happened between him and Cas, from the clumsy last minute invite to the hot and steamy kiss.
"That kinda threw me for a loop, who knew the shy and dorky doctor could be...so aggressive."
Sam furrowed his brows. "I'm not that surprised actually, he is in the medical profession and that field is known to be ruthless when it comes down to coming out on top. I've heard some real horror stories from friends and friends of friends. How their notes would be stolen or ruined from their peers, students trying to sabotage one another just to get a slightly better grade. I'm sure it wasn't that much different for Cas."
Dean was thoughtful for a moment before a sly smirk ghosted over his lips.
"Wonder how that's gonna come out in the sack."
Sam seemingly choked on nothing and slapped his hands over his ears, groaning in disgust while getting up to leave.
"Oh- jesus! Dammit Dean!"
Sam ran out of the room while Dean laughed loudly behind him.
Over the next couple of weeks Dean spent the most of his time strengthening his leg and recovering from the crash, his wounds healing quick and without any complications. His ribs and right leg would take the longest to heal but he could feel himself getting stronger with every coming day. Dean and Cas kept in touch but, due to the doctors schedule and Deans limited energy, they didn't see much of one another apart from follow up appointments.
"Hello, Dean. How are you today?"
Dean was sat on the edge of the waiting room bed, his leg draped over Cas's thigh, the doctor had lifted Deans' sweatpants to take a look at his thigh. It was Deans' last appointment with the doctor and he was excited to not have to see Cas as a patient, wondering maybe they could start seeing each other officially. Dean was vibrating with excitement and even Cas, cool, calm, collected Cas had a glint of excitement in his eyes. He began unwrapping the temporary cast on Deans' thigh and gently prodded the area, curious to see how sensitive the site was.
"Good, well other than the peg leg. But good. Bobby went back home last night and Benny is hanging around in the city checking up on me if I need anything. Sam is busier than ever with the company and I barely get to see him but, with me currently out of order I can't blame him."
"Hmm, well if everything goes according to plan today, you'll be able to start work soon enough."
Dean grunted in agreement. He was eager to dive back into work, going back into the office and help Sam catch up on some work so his baby brother could get some kind of reprieve after working on his own these last couple weeks. Dean was also looking forward to just leaving his apartment, he was going stir crazy inside his condo, sure it wasn't exactly small by any means but he was tired of being cooped up.
"Let me know if this hurts." Cas softly instructed, one hand gently cradling Deans calf and the other on his exposed thigh, his fingers gently running along the outside of the wound to make his way inward in circular increments.
Dean couldn't stop the rising blush in his cheeks at the sight; Cas on his knees in front of Dean, holding his leg and treating it like it was the most important thing in the world. His white lab coat had fallen open, showing the doctors lean frame that was stressing against his dark suit, the close scent of Cas's cologne filling Deans nose. Cas's hair looked messier than usual today but only added to the doctors attractiveness, the dark locks slightly curled at the ends and lightly tousled with that smelled like some sort of sweet scented gel. Dean wanted to run his fingers through the hair but held himself back.
'Time and place for everything Winchester.'
One of Cas's prods hit a particularly sore area and he winced in pain.
"Sorry, I'll try to be more careful…" Cas' usually rough voice was soft and hushed as his fingers continued their gentle massage.
Dean was arguably at his most vulnerable, his mangled leg in the hands of the doctor who healed him, the doctor who's seen him at his worst; bloodied, battered and bruised. The wound on his thigh was still on the mend, the flesh was a muddy yellow with splotches of purple, the skin was wrinkled and would most likely would stay that way due to how big the wound was originally. Dean had taken long looks at the site, his vanity getting the better of him, worried that Cas wouldn't find him attractive despite their obvious chemistry. Sure, Dean knew he had a pretty face and a great body but what was all of that worth if Cas looked at his scar and decided it wasn't worth it. But seeing Cas now, the way he looked at it, quelled some of the doubts.
Cas simply looked over the wound, almost with an air of remorse, and sighed before gently putting down Deans leg.
"I'm so sorry Dean...I honestly tried my best to save as much as I could but the shrapnel had cut through so much. It's healing the way we hoped in the sense that there's no infection but it looks like you'll have a permanent limp."
"Whoa, Cas. Hey look at me," Dean tried to coax Cas to look at him, his green eyes searching for those captivating blues, trying to pull to doctors gaze to lock with his. Here he was worried Cas would think he was ugly and Cas is worrying about Dean blaming him for the crash.
"Cas you don't have to apologize. It wasn't you driving the truck and it wasn't your fault that I was injured. Shit just happens. I believe you when you say you're the best at what you do and if this was all that you could save then, that's good enough for me."
The doctor finally looked up at Dean, his eyes filled with guilt but nodded and half-smiled. "Thank you Dean, that… " Cas took a deep breath and relaxed his shoulders. "That means a lot more than you know."
Dean then suddenly groaned as a hot wave of pain rolled over his thigh and he braced himself while it ran its course.
'Jesus if it's not one thing it's another.' Dean thought irritably.
"Dean?"
Dean couldn't say anything, the pain almost paralyzing him as it wracked through his body. Cas looked over him helplessly, his hands reaching out only to hang uselessly in the air. Once it looked like it was over, Dean exhaled loudly and wiped the sweat from his brow, his mouth dry and his vision slightly blurred.
"Damn, that one was probably the worst one so far." he chuckled nervously, his chest heaving from the ordeal.
"Do... you get those often?" Cas asked worriedly, his head tilting inquiringly.
"Unfortunately, yeah. They just come outta nowhere sometimes, even when I'm sleeping."
"How are the pills working? Do they help with the pain at all?"
"Yeah they help but I think I've got only a couple days worth left."
Cas was thoughtful for a moment before he stood up and went over to his computer, his fingers flying over the keyboard as he went.
"I'll write you up another prescription, at least until the episodes stop. Hopefully with the way you're recovering, combined with the physical therapy appointments, they won't be so intense. The new prescription should tide you over until then."
Dean sighed in relief and ran a hand through his hair, smiling easily.
"Thanks Cas, I was really worried about what I was gonna do once I ran out."
Cas turned to look at Dean and nodded. "With an injury that deep you're going to experience some pain even after you've recovered, but for now I'll do my best to make sure you're comfortable while you heal." the doctor walked over to Dean and knelt back down to help put the cast back on, careful not to jostle Deans leg. "The pharmacy is still open, I've rushed ordered it so you can pick it up after you leave."
Dean scratched the back of his head nervously and cleared his throat, clenching his hands together in front of him on his lap.
"Listen Cas, I uh-" but before Dean could go any further Castiel spoke up.
"Dean, seeing as how this is our last appointment, I was wondering if you'd like to go out to dinner with me. Tonight." Cas was looking up at Dean with unadorned sincerity, his eyes full of excitement and hope.
Dean was speechless for a moment, kicking himself for letting the doctor beat him to the punch. Though it seemed like it was a moment too long as the doctor furrowed his brows in confusion.
"You're...not saying anything. Dinner is still...an appropriate date idea, isn't it?"
Cas knew he hadn't been on a date in a while, let alone been in a relationship, and hoped the dating scene hadn't changed so drastically.
Dean let out a short laugh and shook his head.
"Yes, yes it is. Sorry I wasn't...you beat me to the punch and it caught me off guard. I was actually going to ask you out on a date."
A slow realization came across Cas' face.
"Oh...oh!"
"But just because you're buying me dinner doesn't mean I owe you anything." Dean teased, his voice overly effeminate, poorly mimicking a woman's voice.
"Why is your voice so high?"
Dean rolled his eyes and brought the doctor forward so he could kiss him, one hand gripping the soft dark locks and the other wrapped around his neck. Cas hummed contentedly, his hands gripping Deans' thighs to steady himself, kissing him breathless all the while butterflies were going crazy in his stomach. He was officially taking Dean out on a date, beautiful, untamed and vibrant Dean Winchester wanted to go out on a date with him.
Well there you are, Chapter 4 done and Chapter 5 is already quickly in the works. It's a lot of fluff and may seem like a lot of filler but I promise this all is for a reason and will slowly build up the foundations for the later and darker chapters. Please if you'd be so kind to leave a review letting me know what you thought of this chapter and maybe what you'd like to see in the future, I'm always curious about other peoples thoughts on my stories. See you all next time.
-Bel