A/N: See first chapter for disclaimer and notes...


Dean had meant everything he'd said to Castiel about not putting any store in what Raphael was saying about God being dead. If Cas still thought God was alive, that was enough for Dean.

He'd also meant it when he said he felt good for the first time in a long time. He'd needed at least one burden off his shoulders. Not having Sam in his face 24/7 was a relief. It still hurt knowing Sam had chosen Ruby over him, and it hurt worse when Sam was there. At least Cas valued his input, trusted him with his back...