It was a matter of great relief to Castiel to see that his little brother was subtly recovering from their father's passing. He had been worried about the extreme anguish he had demonstrated, due to, Castiel was certain of that, the tendency to exaggeration his passionate nature was prone to.

Castiel was mourning too, quietly, struggling to appear unaffected as was proper. He found this of particular importance for little Samandriel was in need of the best example for how to behave. Gabriel's own bearing left a great deal to be desired when his emotions overcame his good-humored countenance. Yet, on the eve of Adam's first ball, Gabe was calm and happy, his features harmonized by a genuine smile.

Castiel was so engrossed in observing him, he failed to notice he was himself the object of scrutiny. Mr Winchester's eyes were roaming his face, a fact that was noted by Mrs Novak with great delight, although she did not like the hint of distress she could read in them.

Michael had just come back from London and was the master of all their conversations, but even then, a dominant alpha must want a rest after a while, so he urged Gabriel to entertain them with some music. With a smirk to Castiel, he joined the piano and started the symphony that was bound to reveal to Dean the depth of Castiel's feelings toward him.

It required a complex, subtle set of movements for Castiel to be in Dean's vicinity, while still facing him. That first task executed, he waited for the melody to start waving its delicate tapestry. Dean was seated very still, his large hands flat on his knees, his body turned to Adam who was waving at him. There was a sudden change in his demeanor and he turned to the piano with a frown. Castiel wished for a moment he could trade his own temperament with Gabriel's, as he was not sure he could show his emotions as masterly.

Dean did catch his gaze and thankfully remained fixed upon it. Castiel smiled, gently, opening his eyes as big as he dared, careful to mirror Dean's fingers minutely. He even subtly moved his head to the music. He was concentrating on this exhausting performance, knowing that this was a decisive moment for his life, and quite forgot about the world around him.

Dean was apparently immobile, his usually expressive face now barren of any emotions, as if he was experiencing a great shock. Castiel's confidence faded, replaced by resignation and quiet despair. His reasonableness was coming in force, scolding him for daring to dream in such a silly manner.

The conversations resumed after the last notes, hurting his mind. He got up and excused himself, saying he had to retire early to be rested for the ball and engaging Gabriel in joining him. Adam and Michael did not even turn their heads. Dean's expression was unchanged.

It was a sad walk to their bedrooms. Gabriel had taken his cue from Castiel, silent and attentive, their arms linked together in brotherly fortitude. They had almost reached Castiel's boudoir when they heard hurried steps in the corridor.

Castiel tried to walk faster, as he wished to isolate himself, but Gabriel was already turning around and let out a cry:

"Mr Winchester! I feel you are lost for this is the omega aisle. Your bedroom is on the other side of the house."

"I am aware of this and ask you to forgive me, but I need to speak to Mr Novak this instant."

Castiel was still staring at his door, unable and unwilling to acquiesce to the request, but his brother took the decision from his hands:

"In that case, I'll go and rest on that chair near the window over here. I hope you do not intend to upset Castiel just before bed time."

"I wouldn't dream of it. Mr Novak's feelings matter a great deal to me."

Castiel relented. He walked to Dean and stopped before they bumped into each other. He noticed that Dean's hand was shaking and wished he was allowed to grab it. He sighed and looked up.

Dean Winchester's eyes were now occupied by his pupils alone. The effect was so strong, Castiel's legs became weak and he had to catch Dean's elbow for support. A hand was instantly placed upon his. They stood there, unmoving and restrained for so long that Gabriel felt obliged to cough.

This took Dean out of his reverie.

"Mr Novak, I have something to ask you."

Castiel waited but realized he had to answer:

"Yes?"

"I would very much like to solicit your hand for the first two dances tomorrow night."

Dean's voice was more assured than Castiel had expected and he was grateful for it, as it gave him the strength to answer:

"While I am honored by this request, I am but worried for you, as it will prevent you from asking a more worthy omega or young woman you may meet at the ball."

Dean sighed, opened his mouth, then shut it. His reply was but a whisper:

"I do not know which stranger could compare to you in worthiness. It it me who I believe is lacking in many ways. I have failed my duty, as an alpha, to make sure you and Gabriel have at least one dancing companion, although," he bowed gallantly, "I am sure that the both of you will be sought after given your beauty."

Castiel allowed himself another brief smile.

"As you justly said, strangers rarely make good dancing partners and we have spent so much time together. I accept your request but only if you ask my brother later in the evening."

He heard Gabriel laugh. Dean looked more tranquil.

"Then, it is settled. I am looking forward to the ball and will certainly dream about it."

He was gone a few moments later, leaving a weakened, joyful Castiel and a smirking Gabe.

"It was very kind of you to include me, Cas, but I think Mr Winchester never intended to ask me. Unless, of course, he has questions about someone in our family, in which case, I intend to be as helpful as possible."

"Do as you wish, Gabriel. As I said before, it is time for us to retire for the night."