Disclaimer: I do not own Supernatural or any of the characters. I only own my OC.
"Lightning doesn't thunder twice. Let that be a lesson in love." ― Jarod Kintz
Chapter 21: Lightning strikes
After their little misadventure at the strip club, the trio had finally made it back to the abandoned house they were squatting at.
The drive there had been quite amusing and enduring. Since Ava had requested Dean to play Metallica for the ride back, and of course, Dean who loved Metallica with all his heart, had no problem granting her musical request. So as soon as the song, Enter Sandman, began playing, the two hunters had no problem jamming out to the lyrics. They both were headbanging and then there was the pretend air guitar on Ava's part, but overall the two of them were lost into the song. With Dean occasionally drumming his thumbs on the steering wheel, and while Ava whipped her hair back and forth, not all at caring if her brown locks got tangled. It was Metallica after all. One tends to be over zealous towards the band, but especially her whenever she heard them playing. Plus, Enter Sandman was one of her all time favorite songs to jam out to. Dean had first introduced the song to her when she was around ten or so and since then the huntress had loved the song and furthermore the band too. Therefore, jamming out to Metallica, was something Ava and Dean had always done together. If it wasn't to the band Metallica then it was to Led Zeppelin. If not Led Zeppelin then it was some other rock band they've grown to love through the years. Music was something the hunters held close to their hearts. It brought them momentary happiness and it made them forget about the troubles they had in their lives. Even if only for a little while...they were still grateful for the distraction, and it was one they found to be enjoyable.
Except they weren't the only ones to be feeling that way as well.
Castiel, who at first was rather serious and quiet during the ride back, kept watch on the hunters, but especially towards Ava, who was in the back seat. The music they were listening to was familiar to him. If he recalled correctly it was the musical band...Metallica? Ava informed him about the musical group, along with the others they had listened to during their car ride before they arrived to Maine. Either way though, at first, in all honesty out of all all the musical groups he's heard so far, he found this one to be awfully noisy and ear piercing. Not to mention he no had clue as to what the man in the strange device where the music was playing, was trying to say to them. Something about sleep? An exit light? And going to a place called Never-land? He really didn't know. It was hard to fully understand the vocals. Plus he really didn't see the appeal to this band, unlike with the others he had listened to before with Ava. But...the more he saw Ava and Dean grow happy with the song, the more he started feeling a sense a rhythm within himself as well. It was a rhythm that suddenly just took over and no sooner than later he started nodding his head just like Ava had been doing, but his movements were much more slower. Almost as if he were testing himself out. The reason why was because he was nervous, he had never fully "rocked out" before. It was a strange term, but Ava had told him that when she was giving him his first music lesson. So the more he "rocked out" in a way, the more he got into the song, and his small dislike towards the musical band started to diminish. In fact he found the song to be full of energy. He could see based on Ava and Dean's behavior that the song gave people a sudden urge to move around in hype along with giving them the nerve to sing out loud. He found Dean's singing to be rather bemusing, but when he saw Ava singing, well he found it to be so captivating. She had such a soft tuneful voice, even with the loud music filling up the vehicle. She was smiling and laughing, that beautiful laugh he adored so much. In that moment she looked so carefree and there was no worry on her youthful face. So in the end he came to the conclusion that Metallica couldn't be so bad if it made her feel happy. After all he knew there was other types of musical bands out there. Like that one charming piece of music that he heard with her in her bedroom, while they watched the stars together in peace. Which was indeed a small but very significant moment that meant a lot to him and it was one that he was going to cherish forever. Actually during the drive back he thought about how any moments he's had or was going to have with Ava, were immediately going to be held in high regard in his sight. Her presence alone always brought warmth, comfort, and a sense of euphoria to him. He craved and enjoyed being near her presence.
Just like right now, that much to his delight he had the honor of spending some time alone with her. But his merriment quickly faltered when he saw how Ava's breathing was coming out in ragged pants...
A few minutes prior this, Dean who had previously been with them, was now upstairs snoring peacefully away in one of the rooms. The green-eyed hunter had told them, that he needed some shut-eye, saying that after the amusing scene and laughing his ass off at the strip club along with the jam out session he had with Ava, that he could literally hear sleep calling his name. Before he went upstairs though, he made sure to check on Ava, asking if she was alright. The huntress had to roll her eyes, but she felt at ease over his protectiveness towards her. She told him she was okay and that she would be fine with Cas, who was sitting in the seat she had been in earlier, by the table before they had left to the strip club. Feeling content with her answer, Dean then gave Ava a good-natured hair ruffle, causing the huntress to give him a playfully scowl as she protested in amusement. She heard him wish her a good-night sleep, right before he climbed up the stairs. She returned a soft goodnight back to him, but unfortunately once he was out of sight, that was when a train full of distress decided to hit her hard right in the heart. Her whole body was now in alert mode because the worry and concern she had towards Cas came running back to her. And the more she thought about what might happen to Cas' the more she realized that this could really be his last night on earth...with her. Tomorrow he could die...again. Which was something that Ava definitely did not want. Just the thought of him dying again, made her feel panic, worry, anxiousness. She knew for sure that if her guardian angel did die...she wouldn't be able to cope with it this time. Not with how strong her feelings had gotten. No...she couldn't. So with that heavy realization, Ava started to feel her breathing come out in fast and ragged pants. She then noticed from the corner of her eye that Cas was now staring at her in full concern. He had even gotten up from the seat he was in and it appeared as if he were about to make his way towards her. She acted quickly though, because she didn't want him seeing her like this, so she ran out the front entrance and closed the door behind her. Hoping he got the message that she wanted to be left alone. Once outside the house she used the old front porch railings to lean against on it. She tighten her hold on the railing until her hands were white. With grip still on the railing, Ava then closed her eyes as she tried counting out her breathing, slowly.
1...2...3...
Come on Ava...you gotta relax. Having a panic attack right now isn't going to help!
She tried talking in her head to calm herself down, but no matter what said, her breathing still came out hard and tattered. She was so focused on trying to control her breathing that she didn't even hear the front door open or the upcoming footsteps that stopped behind her.
"Ava?"
Ava's body went slightly rigid when she heard Cas' gruff voice. The huntress could tell he was now standing behind her and based on how concern filled his voice was, she could only imagine the worried expression he must of had on as well. Still though despite that, Ava didn't turn around to face him. Instead she stayed in place and tighten her hold on the railing. In truth...she was embarrassed. The last thing she wanted was for Cas to see her having a panic attack. It had almost happened before when she and Dean had been captured by Zachariah. But thankfully he had healed her wounds that along the way he had managed to side track her anxiety as well. But now here she was having another panic attack. Only this time there was no flesh wounds or injuries for him to heal. Now he was actually going to witness her having one...great.She really hated her anxiety. She took a deep breath and then took a second before she spoke up.
Ava's body trembled a bit and she felt her hold on the railing loosen. Damn it! "I'm fine Cas… just leave me alone." She begged him, and she really hated herself for how wavered her voice sounded. God, he's gonna see right through her lie! And not much to her surprise…he did.
"You're not fine, Ava." She felt like he was much closer to her. In fact she could kinda feel the front of his body behind her back now and the disquiet tone he had was more obvious as well. "I can hear your frayed breathing. What's wrong?" He asked in solicitude.
Ava remained quiet with only her breathing being heard. Castiel furrowed his eyebrows in worry, stepping much closer to her. So close that their bodies were finally touching. This made Ava's eyes widen.
"Cas, what are you―"
Ava didn't get to finish talking because she suddenly felt Cas' arms wrap around her midsection from behind her. It caught her off guard but the warm embrace was calming down her breathing. Within a minute her breathing was back to normal. Once Ava was fully relaxed again, she realized that Cas still had his arms around her. Blushing she decided to slowly turn around to face him. As she did this though he never once ended the embrace. And once Ava faced him, she completely forgot what she was going to say to him. All she could focus on instead was how his intense oceanic blue eyes were gazing down at her. So instead of talking, she just engulfed him for another hug, with her head resting on his chest. She felt comfort, relief, but most importantly…she felt Cas.
Meanwhile Castiel, who was still holding onto her dearly, felt her body relax into his embrace. Which truthfully he was feeling rather nervous. The sudden action to hug her, just sort of happened. It was a immediate reaction he got once he saw how distressed she looked. He really had no idea how Ava was going to react with his sudden touch...but luckily he had managed to calm her down. She didn't have a physical would on her body. No because if she had been wounded he would have known the instant it happened. Except he knew something was right...her breathing was ragged and awfully strained. It brought him back to the dire time when she and Dean had been held because of him and Zachariah. Thinking about that time made his stomach do a twist. He never liked thinking about those times...still he remembered how Ava's breathing was like that. Harsh, almost if she were losing air from her lungs. He wanted to know why...why was this happening to her? He never liked seeing his human going through any sorts of pain. It worried him immensely. Not to mention he felt great frustration deep within himself because he wasn't able to heal her anymore. Just like he had done so before in the past. Therefore without his healing abilities to make her feel better, he did the only thing he could do...he brought her into a warm soothing hug.
During his time so far on earth, Cas had learned a thing or two about humans. They craved contact. Some more than others. Ava though, he'd come to understand that she only hugged those she cared deeply for. Dean, Sam, Bobby, and... now him. Hugs were a universal way of displaying how much you cared for someone. He always liked Ava's hugs...they were blissful. But another thing he had learned was that human contact was also useful whenever a person was sad...or suffering dearly. Emotional or physical pain. Therefore, since Cas couldn't see any physical wounds or such, he had to assume that she was suffering emotionally. So he came to the conclusion that hugging her would be for the best. And honestly...he had wanted to wrap his arms around her as well. Just like he had done so when he had hugged her that time at the hospital. The way his grace was so close to her soul made him feel alive, and he was pretty sure that being close to him, made her feel the comfort she craved. He knew that the hug had done its course when he felt her lean into his embrace, as her breathing had evened out perfectly. Seeing her finally back to her old self made him worry less, not to mention his nerves had gone away when she wasn't rejecting him. In fact she welcomed his gesture rather pleasantly, making him hum in content. His human was feeling better...he slightly tighten his hold and took a deep breath, and smelled the honey scented fragrance from her hair. This eased him and he felt her wrap her arms together around his neck. Her face was laying against his chest, right where the human heart was suppose to be at. He felt how fast it was beating. This didn't surprise him anymore because he had gotten use to how fast it went whenever Ava was around him. It was now like music to his ears because the rhythm reminded him of her. It was now a pleasant feeling. Also...she might of not felt or seen them, but at this moment he had his wings wrapped around her as well. Almost as if they were shielding her from any dangers out there. He felt better knowing that they were protecting her, even if she didn't know about this gesture. It was more of a reassurance to him. He was still nervous to show her his wings in person...but he was feeling more confident now. Perhaps he would show her soon...but all that mattered at the moment was that Ava's ragged breathing and distressed feelings were now gone.
The two continued to hug for what seemed to be timeless. They finally ended their tender embrace when Ava slowly and reluctantly lowered her arms from Cas' neck. She then took a step back from Cas' body causing her back to stumble against the railing. She quickly composed herself, not wanting to embarrass herself more than she already had and fixed her eyesight back onto him, steadily.
"Uhh, thanks Cas..." Ava said sheepishly, before clearing her throat. "I feel better now." Much better. She wanted to add, but managed to keep that silent thought to herself. She really didn't want to admit that to him. It probably would of made her blush more and her cheeks were already bright pink. She was really glad that it was dark outside, that way he wouldn't be able to see her flushed state.
"You're welcome." Cas said to her, as a serious expression crossed his face. "But Ava..." He took a deep, unsettled breath. "I have to know, what was happening to you? This is the second time I have witnessed your breathing escalate rapidly." His blue eyes held deep concern for her. "Tell me why that is." He asked her considerately, with a tactful filed tone of voice.
Ava sighed knowing she could no longer be unforthcoming with her "issue" anymore. Her brown eyes gazed back to his blazing oceanic blue ones. "I was having a panic attack..." She admitted to him, uninhibitedly.
As soon as Cas heard the word attack though, he quickly misinterpreted things. "Attack?" He repeated the word in protective resolute. His facial features became guarded. "Someone made an attack on you?" He asked this, feeling fret from within. How could he have not noticed this? He let his gaze wander around the abandoned house's property, full on ready to strike those who dared come to harm her.
Ava saw his response and she quickly went to fix it. "No, not that kind of attack." She said not being able to hide her small smile that graced her face. She couldn't help it...he really was one of a kind. Her smile then faltered a bit, as she thought back to what he said. "No one's attacking me...this is something that just happens to me. It's the reason why I have trouble breathing." She clarified to him before taking a deep breath. "And as you can probably tell by now, this happens to me a lot..."
Castiel's protective nature faltered a bit, although he was still on high alert. He furrowed his eyebrows, bemused. "So no one's hurting you?" He asked her softly.
Ava couldn't help but let out a cynical scoff. "Nope...no one." Just my damn anxiety...
Castiel frowned at hearing this. "But...why? Why does this happen to you?"
"It's, uh, because of my anxiety." Ava explained to him shyly. "I have terrible anxiety...and it happens whenever I feel really overwhelmed from fear, stress, or from when I can't handle my stored emotions anymore."
"Stored emotions?" Castiel asked, his eyes softening from her speak about this.
"Yeah, I don't like talking about my feelings that much." Ava told him, putting a brow lock of hair behind her ear. "I'm more the suffer in silence type."
"Perhaps...maybe if you were to talk to someone, you would feel much better." Castiel told her.
"I know...I have my dad for that along with Dean, Sam―"
"And me." Cas added with a faint smile. "You have me as well. Whenever you need to talk or seek comfort."
Ava was left with her mouth slight agape, staring at him in full wonder. Did he really just say that? She thought emotionally, before she composed herself. "Thanks Cas...that's sweet." She said feeling the blush creep more onto her cheeks. "Honestly, that's a kind offer, you actually...made me feel a whole lot better, with just your hugs alone. Even if it's for a little while anyways." She had no idea where she got this courage to say this, but she was glad she did.
Cas' smile faltered, when hearing this though. "I wish I can just heal away your anxiety."
Ava gave him a sad smile. "I don't think that possible Cas, even if you did have your healing abilities. Anxiety isn't a physical wound, it's something I have to personally deal with on my own." She saw how dejected he looked and she bravely took a hold on his hand, giving it a squeeze. "Your presence alone does takes it away though."
"Then perhaps...I should stay with you forever then."
Ava felt her heat beat pick up and her eyes widen at this. Her cheeks flared like crazy by his comment. She let out a sheepish laugh. "Come on Cas, don't go on making exaggerated promises you can't keep." She said trying to make light of the conversation and let go of his hand.
Cas frowned when she looked go of his hand, feeling empty from her warmness. "I'm not." He said in a serious tone as his blue eyes held honesty.
Ava felt a loss of words as he kept staring at her.
Dear God...why did he have to be so charming? Ugh!
"Right...well..." Ava laughed ruefully trying her best to not embarrass herself. "What a night right?" She said deciding to change the subject. If they continued to head in this conversation, she was worried she was going to be red as a tomato. Hell even if he couldn't be able to see her, she still felt the blush on her damn cheeks. Plus she'd probably start stuttering from him being so cute with her and that was something he'd be able to notice right away.
Cas nodded his head. "Yes, it was indeed very...absorbing."
Despite her flushed state, Ava's curiosity got the better of her. "So, I know you didn't do the deed with Chasity." Much to my relief, Ava thought joyfully. "But umm, did you know, uh, kiss her?" She asked him, trying to sound and act as nonchalant as possible.
Cas quickly shook his, making her feel an amount of relief. "No, although she did try...several times. I refused each time she did so. I found her sultry like behavior to be irksome. Her touch also seemed very...erroneous as well. Everything with her just seemed wrong."
"Well that's good." Ava said happily, before she caught her mistake. "I―I mean, what I mean to say is that, it would of sucked if your first kiss was with her." She told him trying to steady her voice. "After all everyone's first kiss should be with someone they like and know, not with some stranger."
"Yes the idea of kissing someone you have no connection with doesn't appeal to me. However, being with someone you hold such connection with, does seem more appropriate." Cas replied back to her before lowering his voice . "Is that how your first kiss was?" He dared to ask her. She had admitted that she hadn't been intimate with anyone, which relived him dearly, but had she already kissed someone? He really hoped not.
Ava's eyes widen. "Me?" She practically squeaked and pointed to herself and saw how Cas nodded. "Oh, no, I haven't...I mean..." She let out a nervous laugh. "Umm, no I haven't kissed anyone. I'm terrible with that kind of stuff. Truth be told...I've never had the desire to kiss anyone before." Well now that's a lie. Ava mentally shushed herself. Okay so maybe she had thought about kissing someone...and maybe that someone was an angel who wore a tan trench coat...but said angel didn't need to know about that. Nor anyone else...
Cas had to hold in his jubilation from hearing her news. She hadn't kissed anyone, that sat well with him. "Maybe you just need to find that one person who you feel a deep connection for." He offered to her. He'd be lying if he said he wasn't thinking about himself with her...but he quickly shut those images away.
"Yeah, maybe so." Ava agreed holding in her giddiness. She wanted more than anything than to just plant a kiss on Cas' lips. He looked so captivating, even in the dark, but she knew better than to do so. Control yourself Ava! "It's, uh, getting late. I should probably head inside and hit the hay." She said finding her voice.
Cas' face became filled with bemusement at her last sentence. Ava quickly caught on to this and giggled. "What I meant to say is that I'm going to bed now." She clarified to him walking towards the front door. Just as she was about to step through, she glanced over her shoulder. "Hey, Cas?" She called out her name catching his attention. The blue eyed angel turned to look at her. Ava gave him a warm hearted smile. "Thanks again...for everything. I mean it..."
Cas felt his lips form into a sincere smile. "Like I mentioned, whenever you need someone, know that I am here. Whenever." He said emphasizing the last word.
Ava took notice to that and it just made her heart patter like crazy. Oh darn it...he's just to much to handle! Ava stifled her blush. "Alright...well, goodnight Cas."
"Goodnight Ava." Cas said lightly and watched as his human stepped inside the house. After he watched her safely return into the house, he let his gaze wander up to the stars in the night sky. All while he thought about on how it would be like to feel Ava's lips upon his own.
The next morning the three of them went back to the hospital where Raphael's vessel, Donnie, was still residing at. Once they arrived there, the two hunters kept watch as Cas slipped into the room, unnoticed by the hospital staff. After a few minutes of them guarding the door from nurses or doctors, Dean entered the room, followed by Ava who quickly yet quietly shut the door behind them. She then closed the blinds to the room, so nobody would see them from the hallway. After that she walked over to stand next to Dean, who in return was watching Cas pour the oil in a circle around where Donnie was sitting in his wheelchair.
"When the oil burns, no angel can touch or pass through the flames, or he dies." Cas explained to the two of them, adamantly as he focused on his task with pouring the oil.
"Okay, so we trap him in a steel cage of holy fire. But one questions..." Dean outlined before narrowing his eyes towards the oil. "How the hell do we get him here?"
"I think he's gonna try sending him a message in Enochian." Ava imputed and almost immediately she was rewarded with expressions filled with complete disbelief. This made her feel defensive. "What? I know things too." She said prickly with furrowed eyebrows, despite feeling sheepish as well.
Cas' face wanted to break into a smile, as he felt blithe that Ava knew about his native language. "Yes, I am." He said confirming her guess. When he looked at her again, his thoughts went back to the conversation he had last night with her. Although it had started with her having her panic attack, it had ended with her feeling much better, and he was glad of that. Plus, he admittedly couldn't help but have great joy, that he had caused her anxiety to go away. Even if it were only for a little while, because right now to him, she looked wholesome and her appearance was as radiant as ever. Right away when he saw when morning time came, he noticed that she was wearing a different type of outfit than she had on last night. She now wore her dark jeans, a blue t-shirt, a grey jacket, along with her normal used pair of shoes. She had her hair differently as well. Instead of being just let down in those wonderful waves of hers, she had her hair in the same style she had when he saw her at the hospital. To him though, she still looked exquisite. What made him feel his heart beat in joy was when he saw that she was wearing the necklace he had given her. Immediately he felt ecstatic that she was wearing his gift. It meant a lot to him. In all honesty he was worried that she wouldn't have liked or accepted his gift when he first showed it to her that day at the hospital. But his nerves were proven false when she gladly accepted the gift. Perhaps he had a tendency to overthink things when it came to the human he cared for the most, but he couldn't help it. He just wanted everything for Ava to be in the highest regards. In other words, she deserved the best. He only hoped that still had the ability to do so, even if most of his powers were now limited. To him, he would still try his best to provide for her well-being. She always came first to him. Always. Speaking of her well-being...
Cas turned his gaze away from Ava and focused back onto Raphael's vessel. His face faltered, and became more guarded. He needed to work on finding Raphael, that way he would be able to interrogate him on where his father was at. With determination he spoke up again to both hunters, voice solid. "However, there's, well, almost an open phone line between a vessel and his angel. One just has to know how to dial." He finished explaining to them, as he lowered his face closer to Donnie's ear, whispering a chant.
Ava immediately knew it was Enochian. She had read and studied about the angel's native language. Unfortunately she hadn't been able to learn the language for herself yet, but she still found it utterly fascinating. However, with the way Cas' was speaking to Raphael's vessel, it made her tense up. She saw how Cas' eyes harden as he continued talking. Even then he still sounded harsh. "I'm here, Raphael." He seethed lowly. "Come and get me, you little bastard." After that he stepped away from the empty vessel and made his way to stand next to the two hunters.
Ava was left in shock. So far with the time she had spent with Cas, never had she heard him use such vulgar language. It almost sounded wrong for those words to come out of Cas' mouth. But...at the same time she understood why he held hostility. This after all was the archangel who had killed him, and who caused Ava to feel heartbreak and distress over her guardian angel's death. So she didn't hold it over Cas to have said that. Truth be told she had wanted to say a few unladylike things too. But for the sake of not diverting the main priority, she decided to keep her comments to herself. She crossed her arms, grimly, as she sent Raphael's vessel a inflexible expression.
"Just out of curiosity, what is the average customer wait time to speak to an archangel?" Dean asked, almost sardonically, as a way to break the tension in the room.
Cas who had moved closer to Ava, right away noticed the tone of voice Dean had. His face became nonplussed. "Be ready." Was all he said gruffly, before lighting a match and throwing it into the oil he had spread Donnie's wheelchair. Within seconds after he threw the match, a ring of fire surrounded Donnie. His body, that was still empty, remained in the middle of the circle, in a complete comatose state. The three of them kept their gazes on him, waiting, anticipating for something to happen.
When Ava thought they had to wait for Raphael to come, she expected maybe an hour or so. But no...they waited until night time and even then there was a no show from the archangel. Even as the oil burnt away there was no sign that the archangel was there. Although, much to their relief, they didn't have much trouble leaving the hospital, so at least that was a point given to them. Anyways, after their failed attempt in summoning Raphael, they headed back to the house they were currently squatting at.
On their way driving there though, Ava wasn't the only one who was feeling completely let down. Cas to was felt the same way, as did Dean, who had complained throughout the drive.
"Well, that's a day I'll never get back." Dean grumbled as he parked the Impala outside the house.
Ava huffed as she and the guys got out of the car and walked towards the front door of the house. The two hunters were both in such foul moods, that they were completely thrown off when Castiel suddenly spoke up in a warning tone.
"Wait!" The angel in the trench coat declared as they stepped into the house. Instinctively he put a hand out to stop Ava in her tracks, causing Dean to follow as well. Both hunters though quickly shielded their eyes from the lightening that shined brightly throughout the room. Ava cracked open her eyes out of curiosity and she suddenly felt her heartbeat pick up from fear. There standing in the middle of the ran shackled living room was Donnie, who looked in a much better condition. It was obvious now that Raphael was possessing him, but that wasn't what caused Ava to feel fear no...it was the damn lightening wings that were in display. They were frightening, straight out glaring at them, as they were making crackling noises. Seeing this brought back unpleasant memories from Ava's childhood. When she was young she was terribly afraid of thunder and lightning...it was definitely childish, she knew this. How could she be afraid of that, but not be afraid of demons, werewolves, vampires, or any other supernatural creatures out there? Cause that to her didn't make a lick of sense. Granted her annoying childhood fear lessened over the years. She learned how to suppress them, but not right now. No...cause at this moment she felt like that very same five year old girl, who was afraid of the scary sounds that came from thunder and lightning. Oh how she hated feeling this way...she wasn't that little girl anymore. But despite wanting to be strong, she suddenly felt her eyes widen and her body freeze in dread.
Dean and Cas right away noticed her tensed up state. Immediately Cas thought her breathing had become ragged again, but it hadn't. She just seemed extremely uncomfortable and strained. Her youthful face held an alarmed expression on it as well. Dean though knew right away on why she was like this. He remembered about her childhood fear. It was something she had to go through whenever it stormed bad in Sioux Falls. He still clearly remembered how when she was little, she would sneak into his bed in the middle of the night whenever he stayed at Bobby's. He remembered how scared she would be because of the thunder and lightning, and how he comforted away her fears, soothingly by telling her that the scary noises she heard were only angels bowling in heaven. That usually always did the trick in calming her down and making her feel better. But that was when she was five or so years old. Throughout the years he figured that she had gotten over her fear. In fact she even hated it whenever he brought up the topic in conversation, since it made her feel embarrassment. Dean of course just found that to be cute and endearing because it brought him back to a time when things were much simpler when they were younger. Except he didn't feel that nostalgic vibe right now. No he didn't feel that at all. No, instead he felt anger towards the archangel for scaring Ava. Dean was just about to make his way closer to her to comfort her, when he noticed that Cas had already done so. The hunter narrowed his eyes at him but didn't get to dwell on it for long because suddenly every light bulb in the living room had shattered. The room then was surrounded in absolute darkness. Dean composed himself from the sudden occurrence and fixed his gaze towards the middle of the living room. He saw how the archangel was still standing in the same spot, with an air of superiority surrounding him.
"Castiel." The three of them heard him speak up, greeting Cas. Ava right away noticed how deep and frightening his voice was.
Castiel's face became guarded. "Raphael." He replied back to him in a steel like tone. He along with the two hunters followed him slowly, as he furthered closer into the living room.
Dean glanced back towards Ava and saw how unnerved she looked as she gazed at the archangel. Her brown eyes were in full alarm and he noticed how she kept closer to Cas than to him. And for some reason that made him feel disconcert. Hoping to snap her out of her daze, Dean harden his stare towards Raphael. "And I thought you were supposed to be impressive. All you do is black out the room." He commented snidely.
Raphael moved his coarse like stare towards the green eyed hunter. He looked completely done with him. "And the Eastern seaboard." He informed him, feeling superior. All of a sudden there was a flash of lightning outside, once again brightening the room from darkness. This of course just scared Ava even more and automatically she took hold of Cas hand. It gave her comfort and reassurance, allowing her to relieve her distress, even if it were in the slightest way possible. Cas felt her hold and gave her a gentle squeeze back, all while not taking his harden gaze towards Raphael. This action between the huntress and angel was fully noticed by the other two in the room. Raphael narrowed his eyes towards Castiel. "It is a testament to my unending mercy that I do not smite you here and now." He told him stridently.
When Ava heard him say this, all the fear she had momentarily went away. She fixed her posture, giving Cas' hand another squeeze before letting go. Setting her eyesight on the archangel, she felt piqued. "Not on my watch." She snapped at him, not at all taking the threat he had laid on Cas kindly. She wasn't going to let him hurt Cas, let alone kill him.
Raphael glanced towards the huntress and his face became filled with austere."Ava Faye." He said her name out-loud, flinty. "It's an honor to meet you, even considering the circumstances." He announced as he let his gaze fall between her and Castiel, right away noticing how close they were together. "I see you've gotten attached to your so called guardian." He spoke up in a lecturing tone, as he gave Castiel a choler like expression. "An unwise move on both of your accounts. Especially on you Castiel. You know she's not meant to be permanently under your charge." He spoke to him in indignation. "She's not yours to be with."
"Who I choose to be with, is up to me." Ava said sternly with a scowl. "You, or anyone else, don't get to make that decision for me."
Raphael looked unhappy at her outburst, all while Cas had a look of content. "You heard her." He said backing Ava up.
Raphael shook his head in absurdity. "You are a fool Castiel." He berated him and then looked at the two of them, once again noticing how close they were to each other. "The both of you are, if you think for a second that you can prevent the bond from happening."
"Oh, yeah? Well maybe you're full of crap." Dean suddenly stated out loud. He saw how the conversation was going and decided to intervene drawing Raphael's attention onto him instead. "Maybe you're afraid God will bring Cas back to life again and smite you and your candy-ass skirt." Dean finished saying, trying to act as cool and nonchalant as possible. He then took a short pause for dramatic effect before he continued talking. "By the way, hi, I'm Dean."
Raphael looked unamused by this. "I know who you are." He snapped at him with cold eyes. "And now thanks to him, I know where you are." He then moved his gaze back onto the huntress. "Along with her as well."
Castiel felt protectiveness for both hunters. "You won't kill him. You wouldn't dare." He said gruffly. "And I know you wouldn't harm her either." He declared.
Raphael turned his head towards him again and remained quiet. He looked to be deep in thought, before he spoke up again. "But I will take them to Michael." He retorted back to him.
There it was again...that damn name. Ava felt chills throughout her body as she thought back to that dream she had. It's been a while now and she hadn't had anymore dreams involving Michael, and she was extremely glad for that. But hearing Raphael speak his name brought back great distress.
"Well that... sounds terrifying. It does." Dean said, bringing Ava back from her troublesome thoughts. She saw how Dean picked up a beer that was on the table counter. She could tell he was trying to act nonchalant as possible. "But, uh, hate to tell you...we're not going anywhere with you." He said as he cracked open the lid off the beer and took a sip gradually.
"Surely you remember Zachariah giving you stomach cancer?" Raphael asked snidely.
Dean froze where he was at. He was glad that he was facing away from him. A grim expression appeared on his face as he thought back to that vile time. He quickly fixed his expression as he turned back to face him, head on. A fake tight humorless grin was splattered on his face. "Yeah, that was―that was hilarious."
Ava clenched her jaw as she too thought back to when Dean, Sam, and her were tortured by Zachariah. All while she cursed said angel into oblivion.
"Well, he doesn't have anything close to my imagination." Raphael said lowly, with a threat hidden in that statement, just as he stepped closer to the three of them.
"Oh, yeah?" Dean asked rhetorically. "I bet you didn't imagine one thing."
"What?" Raphael asked with disinterest.
Dean's derision attitude faltered. "We knew you were coming, you stupid son of a bitch." As soon he said that, Cas lit the lighter he had hidden in his trench coat. He then threw it on the ground and the three of them watched as the lighter sparked the oil they had left in the middle of the living room. Flames quickly surrounded Raphael, trapping him inside the circle.
Gotcha.
Ava thought smugly. Feeling proud that their plan had gone out perfectly. The three of them had been prepared ahead of time in case the hospital idea didn't work out.
When Raphael lifted his deathly stare back at them though, Dean was the one who reacted first. He seemed daunted. "What, don't look at me, it was his idea." He sputtered out at the archangel, nodding his head towards Cas.
Ava scoffed totally wanting to face palm herself, even despite the situation they were in. Instead she threw Dean a stare that screamed, 'Really, Dean? REALLY?'
Castiel in return gave Dean a look of bemusement. The green eyed hunter saw both of their reactions, and he just shrugged his shoulders carelessly in response to that. Ava just shook her head even more, finding the hilarity in the situation.
"Where is he?" Castiel demanded, focusing back to what was important. Interrogating Raphael.
Raphael rose an eyebrow. "God?" He asked in remiss. "Didn't you hear? He's dead, Castiel. Dead."
When Ava heard this she knew something wasn't right with that. God couldn't be dead...he just couldn't.
Castiel felt the same way. "You're lying." He fought back verbally, not wanting to believe a single word that was coming out of Raphael's mouth.
"Am I?" Raphael retorted dourly. "Do you remember the twentieth century? Think the twenty-first is going to be any better? You think God would have let any of it happen if he were still alive?" He argued pointedly with him.
Ava saw how Cas had gone quiet after that. He looked so sad, angry, and worst of all...he looked like he had been let down. She stepped closer to him hoping that would ease his agitation.
Dean noticed this too, he fixed his narrowed gaze on Raphael. "Oh, yeah? Well then who invented the Chinese basket trick?" He wisecracked, drawing the archangel's attention back to him.
Ava wanted to full on lecture him on his hasty like behavior, but she knew he was doing this to help out Cas.
"Careful." Raphael warned him. "That's my father you're taking about, boy."
Dean scoffed. "Yeah, who would be so proud to know that his sons started the friggin' apocalypse." He retorted, heavily.
Raphael's fierce attitude fell a little. "Who ran off and disappeared, who left no instructions and a world to run."
"So daddy ran away and disappeared?" Dean looked thoughtful. "He didn't happen to work for a post office, did he?" He asked and both Ava and Cas gave him another, 'really?' look.
"This is funny to you?" Raphael asked fiercely. "You're living in a Godless universe."
Dean looked unfazed. "And? What you and the other kids just decide to throw an apocalypse while he's gone?"
Ava saw how the archangel's posture lessened. "We're tired." He told them, unwieldy. "We just want it to be over. We just want..." He stopped mid sentence and glanced over towards Castiel and Ava who were staring at him with their full attentions. "Paradise." He finished telling them, lowly.
Dean wasn't having it. "So what―God dies and makes you the boss, and you think you can do whatever you want?"
Raphael's posture straighten up and his voice became hard again. "Yes." He announced with superiority. "And whatever we want, we get."
Immediately right after he said that, there was a loud crash of thunder outside, causing all the living room windows to break. Glass shattered everywhere and the rain from the outside was now coming inside. Ava took cover by shielding her eyes from the glass with her hands. Dean did the same thing as well, but instead with his jacket. Ava had let out a shocked gasp though when she heard thunder crackling. She felt calmness sooth through her though, when Cas pulled her towards him, protecting her from the sudden burst. He then made sure she and Dean were alright before he let her go slowly and turned to glare back at Raphael. He felt anger, the glass could of hurt both Ava and Dean. Especially Ava. The glass could of severally harmed her.
"If God is dead, why have I returned?" He asked, shouting over the rain and thunder. The wind was blowing the rain inside, soaking all of them from head to toe.
Raphael looked done with his questioning, but remain stoic. "Did it ever occur to you that maybe Lucifer raised you?" He asked planting the idea into his head. Castiel quickly denied this though, but Raphael kept insisting. "Think about it. He needs all the rebellious angels he can find." He moved his gaze alternating between him and the huntress. "You know it adds up."
Castiel felt the idea in the back of his head. Was what Raphael saying possible? Had Lucifer been the one who brought him back? Doubt surrounded his head, but it stopped when he felt a tug on his hand. He looked back up towards Ava and felt his heart flutter. No...it couldn't have been Lucifer. No way indeed. He gave Raphael a sharp expression before he turned around, bringing Ava along with him. "Let's go." He told her and Dean.
They were almost to the door when Raphael's voice thundered, stopping them. "Castiel, I'm warning you. Do not leave me here. I will find you."
Castiel turned back to look at him again. "Maybe one day. But today you're my little bitch." He told him, execratly. He then headed back towards the front door, with Ava who was still holding his hand gingerly. She felt great surprise and amazement by his outburst, but ultimately she enjoyed how he had one upped the archangel.
Dean was impressed with Cas' comment as well. He let out a smirk as he looked at Raphael. "What he said." He said before he exited the house as well, leaving behind a very vengeful archangel trapped in a ring of fire.
The rain was still pouring down hard when the three of them got out of the house. They made a run for the Impala and quickly got in. After that Dean floored the accelerator and drove away as fast he could from the house. After a while the rain started to calm down, and much to Ava's relief the thunder and lightning had stopped when they were finally away from Raphael.
The three of them were still soaked, and shivering from the cold. Well at least Ava and Dean were, Cas looked less affected with his wet clothes. In fact it seemed as if he had something else bothering him. Ava saw how his shoulders were slumped in forlorn.
Dean noticed this too, and he threw a brief concern look his way. "You okay?" He asked him. This was the first time he had actually felt deep concern over the nerdy angel since he started his God hunt. He must of been disappointed about the info he had gotten over from Raphael. Dean sighed as Cas disregarded his question and kept looking outside the car's window. "Look, I'll be first to tell you that this little crusade of yours is nuts, but I do know a little about missing fathers." He said, hoping to catch his attention.
This seemed to do the trick, as Cas turned to look towards him. "What do you mean?" He asked, curious.
Dean glanced up towards the review mirror and saw how Ava was giving him a appreciated smile. She knew that he was trying to give some advice to encourage Cas on finding his father. He focused his eyes back to the road he was driving on, as he continued on with the 'talk' he was having with Cas. "I mean there were times when I was looking for my dad when all logic said that he was dead, but I knew in my heart he was still alive." He explained whole heartily to him. "So who cares on what some ninja turtle has to say, Cas, what do you believe?"
Castiel took Dean's words thoroughly. "I believe he's out there." He told him, seriously.
"Good." Dean replied nodding his head. "Then go find him."
"Just make sure to tell us when you do." Ava added with a uplifting type of tone. "I know he's out there too, so don't give up." She told Cas, with a smile gracing her face.
Castiel glanced at her returning the smile, before he looked over at Dean. "What about you?" He asked the hunter back to his normal earnest self.
"What about me?" Dean repeated the question, keeping his steady gaze on the road in front of him. "Honestly, I'm good." He said trying to sound collected as possible. "I can't believe I'm saying that, but I am, I'm really good."
Castiel seemed unconvinced. "Even without your brother?"
At this Ava's full attention went to Dean. The hunter, who was driving didn't even glance at Cas, let alone look back up towards the review mirror. She saw though how his shoulders tensed up. "Especially without my brother." He said gruffly at him. "I mean, I spent so much time worrying about the son of a bitch." He tried to laugh but it sounded forced, so he settled with a tight smile. "I mean I've had more fun with you and Ava, in the past twenty-four hours, than I've had with Sam in years. Although it's not surprising with Ava, since she's a hoot to have around, but you..." He said giving Cas a shrug. "You're not that much fun." The green-eyed hunter said chuckling, but Ava could tell automatically that it was an dishonest one. He was hurting and he definitely missed Sam...even if he didn't want to admit it out loud. Ava wanted to yell and tell him to call Sam already. But she knew that tactic wouldn't have worked. That was Dean for yeah...a stubborn butt. She sighed, dis-tangling the side braid she had on, as she heard Dean continue on talking. "It's funny, you know, I've been so chained to my family, but now that I'm alone, hell, I'm happy." He said trying to sound optimistic.
At this Ava frowned and kicked his seat, hard. "You're not alone, dummy."
"Okay, first of all, don't kick my baby." He said reprimanding her. "Second of all...where the hell did you learn how to kick? Were you in some soccer team, that I wasn't aware of." He said trying to divert the seriousness. Ava rolled her eyes at this and crossed her arms. She narrowed her eyes at the back of Dean's head, and she could feel how unnerved he was getting with her staring. She heard him release a sigh. "You know what I mean by that kiddo..." He said referring to the comment he made. "Don't take it to heart."
Kind of hard not to...
Ava thought bitterly. Dean wasn't alone...even if he weren't with Sammy, he still had her and Bobby. He would always have her...So for him to have said that, well it kind of hurt her, but she quickly stored that hurt away. "Yeah, I get it." She muttered looking out the car window, watching the passing scenery.
"If were thoroughly done here, I have to take Ava back home now." Castiel said informed Dean, noticing how Ava had gotten quiet in the back seat. He turned to look at her and reached for her hand, catching her attention. She looked back towards him and any signs of unhappiness were now gone. She gladly took a hold on his hand, and graced him with another one of her wonderful smiles. Once of which he returned with much gleefulness.
Through the review mirror though, Dean had once again noticed the stares they were giving each other. He felt a nervous tick in his eyes, not liking this exchange whatsoever. Especially with the hand holding. "Just make sure she gets home safe, Cas." He told him, with a grim expression. The two of them didn't immediately respond to what he said, only making the suspicion he had settle deep within his stomach. After a few seconds of them just staring at each other, Cas finally acknowledged what he had said.
"Don't worry, I will." Cas said without taking his eyes off of Ava.
Ava slowly as if reluctant glanced back at Dean. "I'll see you later Dean." She told him, with a small smile. "Take care of yourself, and please...just think about calling Sammy."
Dean who was still studying the pair intently, had to quickly fix himself before answering her. "No promises, kiddo."
Ava let out a exasperated huff, and Dean noticed from the side of his eyes, how Ava had tighten her hold on Cas' hand. Without another word the pair left, letting Dean hear the ruffling of feathers. Once he was finally by himself, the hunter began thinking more clearly.
Throughout the whole day today, he had been seeing the exchanges between Ava and Cas. With the smiles, longing looks, staring at each others eyes, and the damn hand holding. What was up with that anyways? He knew that Cas was Ava's guardian angel and was meant to protect her and all, but did he need to be so touchy with her? And the bigger question was, why the hell was Ava allowing this? She usually wasn't one who did the whole hand holding thing. Hell, she wasn't even the kind of person who liked the star gazing into each other eyes, going oh la la either. Honestly...if Dean were being truthful, he's never seen her interested in romance, let alone physical contact. Yeah sure she blushed easily, but she never really expressed actual interest in dating. Don't get him wrong, that didn't bother him or the others, since they didn't want her dating anyone. And he never had to worry about that problem either, since she was so inexperienced and held no interest whatsoever in the opposite sex or in the same sex. Truth be told...for a while during her early teen years, Dean had thought that maybe Ava liked girls instead of guys. Since guys never did anything for her, maybe girls did. But that theory was proven wrong when she didn't express any desire to date let alone act intimate with a girl. Which ultimately made Dean come to the conclusion that maybe neither gender mattered to her. Maybe she really didn't want to date or act physical with anyone. Sure, he liked to poke fun at her and comment on how she attracts the ladies and such, but it's all just kidding around. Although, if Ava were to have liked girls, he would have no problem with that. He along with Sam and Bobby would of supported her. Gay, straight, or whatever, they'd be there for her. Either way they just didn't want her dating anyone. Which proved not to be a issue...except for now.
Because now here she was finally expressing so called, 'romantic' feelings towards...Cas? At least that's what he assumed these gestures were, because he hadn't seen her get this attached to anyone before, other than him, Sam, and Bobby. But the way she acted with them was in no way in comparison on how she was with Cas today...she looked at him in full like devotion and the same could be said about him. Was Cas really the one who had caught her heart?
No.
No, not him...no way in hell. What kind of absurd idea was this...he wasn't even human?! Ava couldn't like him...she probably just liked him as a close friend. Nothing else.
Dean clenched his jaw and his hold on the steering wheel tighten as he thought more about this.
No, not my kiddo. Dean thought stubbornly, she couldn't like Cas. The trench coat wearing angel couldn't feel any ounce of romantic feelings towards her either. He was only suppose to be protecting her from danger and from that dreaded bond. Then again what if Cas wanted to be with her because of her pure soul? Maybe he wanted to complete the bond with her. No that didn't feel right to even think about that. Cas, had proven to him and the others that he did want Ava to be safe and most of all he didn't want her to complete the bond. But...did he care for her too much? Were there romantic feelings lingering around between them? Cause they defiantly seemed quite cozy with each other...
Dean quickly shook his head.
No not possible. He kept telling himself that Ava in no way liked Cas and that Cas felt no ounce attraction towards her either, because they just didn't.
Right...?
Suppppp guys! Anyone still out there? :S
What did you guys think of this chapter? The beginning scene with Ava and Cas! *Blushes'* Cas stop being so adorable! Ahh. Ava wanting to kiss Cas! *Hehehe* But she didn't. (; And Cas thinking about on how it would be like to kiss her! Gahhhh I'm overloading with cuteness right now. Also we got to know about Ava's fear of thunder and lightning and Dean and Cas making sure she was okay! Gah the feels! Dean finally catching on between Ava's and Cas' hidden feelings. I mean cause we know Dean can be oblivious at times but he ain't stupid, he knows something is going on between them now, even if they hadn't admit their feeling for each other yet. Dean though just doesn't want to accept this realization out loud. Except now that he knows about that, he's definitely going to be more over protective over Ava. Oh uh. Which is defiantly something we're going to see in the next chapter since it's the episode were Dean goes to the future. All I gotta say to that though is I hope you guys enjoyed the fluff in this chapter cause the next one well...its angst city, especially for our OTP Avastiel D: Expect tears...lots. Don't say I didn't warn you...please don't hate me. Anyways don't forget to review and go to my tumblr and ask questions for the next chapter and such. I'm always happy to answer! Until next time my lovely readers XOXO!
Tumblr: ava-marie-faye
P.S.
I want to apologize for this very late update! My reason was because of school. I had college finals and I was stressing over my awful math class :/ of which I did not end up passing! Ugh. So I'm going to have to retake it again. Honestly guys I hate math, but I feel terrible because I failed. Failure is something that makes me feel super stressed out and worried, which in return just worsens my anxiety. That's why I kind of really enjoyed writing this chapter. It allowed me to express my emotions on anxiety. Which is something I needed to do in order to feel much more at ease. I know I'm ranting and for that I apologize, yet again. Luckily I'm on Christmas break and now I can focus on my writing. Once again please forgive me for this late update! I'll try to upload the next chapter sooner, along with my other stories.