Special thanks to InThePalmOfMyHand! This super-hero volunteered their services as my beta/sanity-checker and did a fantastic job helping me clean up this chapter before posting! (If you all hadn't noticed, I've been pretty much winging it until now...) So, big thanks to InThePalmOfMyHand for being awesome and saving me from further embarrassing grammatical errors!
Now, on to the rising drama!
The second the elevator doors slid open Castiel could hear the pathetic mewling of Lucifer echoing down the hall from his apartment. The knowledge that he was responsible for caring for the needy cat piled upon his already burdened mind. If the damn thing wasn't so cute and helpless….
There was just so much for which he was responsible. Not just an overly-energetic foster kitten with abandonment issues.
Now he had the burden of thousands of people all over the world, with their own families, bills, mortgages and, hell, probably even a few foster dogs and cats of their own.
And if he didn't measure up, then they could all be unemployed by the end of the year. Some even sooner, based on what Naomi went over with him today.
Castiel moved forward, kneading his hands over his eyes to fight back the exhaustion just a bit longer.
He had to feed Lucifer.
And charge his phone so he could call Dean. Castiel felt a wave of warmth wash over his entire body at the thought of his sexy, green-eyed mechanic. If all of these issues hadn't been thrown on Castiel's lap this morning, would he be with Dean now? Maybe wrapped in his arms already after a long, heated session of love-making?
Dean…
What was he going to tell Dean about all this? Naomi hadn't argued with his choice to stay in Lawrence, but Castiel knew that it was completely impractical.
"You kept the flowers."
Castiel's head shot up and his hands fell from his eyes. "…Dick?" For a moment Castiel was too stunned to even collect his thoughts. The sudden shift from picturing Dean's gentle smirk to seeing Dick's flashing white smile was almost too much to follow. Then, the man's words caught up with his brain and Castiel stared down at his hands, realizing that he was, in fact, carrying the bright yellow bouquet from Dick.
Well, shit.
"I had a feeling they would cheer you up. I know today has been really tough on you." He smiled, moving forward to pull Castiel into an embrace.
Castiel realized his intentions just in time to react. He threw his arms up to stop Dick's hug, unintentionally batting the tall man in the face with his fist full of flowers. Yellow petals exploded into the air, catching in Dick's short, immaculate brown hair as he pulled away.
Dick stepped further back with a frown, brushing the petals testily off of his blazer. "I suppose this means you're still upset with me?" He asked, sending Castiel a tight, stiff smile.
Castiel scoffed loudly and shoved the flowers roughly into Dick's stomach as he pushed his way past to unlock his door.
He felt a tug at his suit sleeve for him to turn back around. Dick looked remorseful as he stared down at the ground. "I know you heard what I said to Metatron that day." When Castiel didn't answer, he continued, "After the first few days, when I heard about your relocation, I asked security if I could check the cameras on the day you left. I had a feeling…since you left so suddenly." He turned his eyes up to meet Castiel's, inching himself closer almost imperceptibly. "You have to realize, Castiel, I was just-just bragging. I didn't want people to think we were only together because I wanted to climb the corporate ladder. That's all everybody thinks. That I'm only out for myself and using you. I… I wanted people to know that we were real-"
"By trash-talking me and making me sound desperate for you? That's how you planned to convince people that you were serious about me?" Castiel could feel the pent up anger and frustration from the entire day begin to overflow. "We are done, Dick. I have a new life here. I don't need to deal with your constant apologies and snobby attitude towards people. Find someone else to 'brag' about!" Castiel turned back to the door angrily, Lucifer's meows escalating in volume when he raised his voice.
"You forgot to mention the mechanic."
At Dick's quiet words, Castiel froze with the key in the lock, waiting to be turned. He carefully looked over his shoulder at Dick, ho continued with a sneer, "Yes, I know about 'Dean'. I ran into that flaming british moron, Balthazar. He didn't waste any time rubbing your new relationship in my face. In front of half the damn office…"
"That's…Dean's not your concern, Dick. You aren't a part of my life any more. Leave him out of this." Castiel gritted out angrily, planning to make a heated call to Balthazar as soon as possible. How the hell could he tell Dick, of all people, about Dean?
"Of course it's my concern, Castiel. We aren't even officially broken up yet!" He ignored Castiel's incredulous laugh, "Give me a few days to try and make it up to you. I already gave you nearly a month and half to calm down. You can't seriously want to end what we had?"
Castiel turned and stared at Dick for several seconds. Finally, he spoke clearly, enunciating each word, "Dick. You have been dumped. You were dumped the second those words came out of your mouth. There is no 'we' anymore. Leave. Now."
He turned back to the door but was quickly spun back around by a the taller man's strong hand. Dick grabbed both of his shoulders and grasped tightly, his face pained and sincere. "Castiel, please-! I know I've made a lot of mistakes. I'm not saying I've been a perfect boyfriend! But, I …I know I can be better if you just give me another chance. Don't I deserve that at least?"
Castiel felt the blood drain from his face. Dick continued, "I'm an idiot for not chasing after you immediately. I know that! I just...I thought you needed time. I didn't expect you to…to throw yourself at some 'filthy car repairman'. And certainly not a straight one! Castiel," his hands moved to cup the sides Castiel's face as he whispered sadly, "You know it would never work out with him, right? He's not like us."
Castiel stood frozen in place, Dick's words ringing through his head. They were exactly what Castiel had been trying to deny to himself since he had first met Dean.
Dean wasn't gay.
Dean was never going to stay with him.
They were two completely different people… It would never last.
Castiel shoved Dick away with such a force that the man stumbled and caught himself on the nearby wall. He stared at Castiel with surprise for several moments, noting his furious face and tense stance.
Dick whispered quietly, almost too low for Castiel to hear, "You wouldn't be so angry if it wasn't true…"
Castiel flinched at the words, forcing his trembling hands to unclench at his sides. He growled, his voice a rumbling threat, "You have NO right to come here and try to ruin what we have. I won't tell you again, Dick. Leave."
Dick looked away, frowning and clearly frustrated. Castiel took the opportunity to turn back to the door and finally open it, scooping the excited Lucifer up and pulling him close- tighter than usual.
He needed to get away from Dick. Away from his words, which sounded too familiar.
Just as he tried to shut the door, it was caught by Dick's hand. "Castiel- wait!" Castiel took a deep calming breath, turning slowly back to Dick. "I- you know why I came here." He muttered the words quickly, his face showing his embarrassment.
"You cannot be serious, Dick. No. Absolutely not."
"Castiel…please. I'm not asking to DO anything. You know that. I just…I figured...you know how bad it can get."
"I said 'no'. Your cuddling privileges have been revoked. Do whatever the hell you've been doing since we separated." He moved to close the door again, but Dick wouldn't release his grip.
"What I've 'been doing' is choking down a cocktail of sleeping pills and scotch every night for the last month and a half! I hate it. Just let me lie beside you- I promise I wont try anything. Your 'mechanic' doesn't have to know. Come on, Castiel…" He leaned forward into the crack of the door, practically begging.
For just the briefest moment, Castiel felt a twang of pity for him. Dick had always had a rough time sleeping by himself. He kept it a well-hidden secret, but Castiel had found out early in their relationship that no matter how late Dick worked, he would always return to Castiel's bed at night to sleep.
Castiel pushed the memories away and growled out firmly, "Dick, the answer is 'no'. I won't say it again. If you can't stand sleeping alone, then hire a damn prostitute. Now move your hand or I swear I'll crush it in the door frame." Castiel had finally had enough, pressing against the door enough to make it clear that he was serious.
Dick gave him one more long, mournful stare, before withdrawing his hand.
The door shut.
Castiel leaned heavily against it, trying to quietly gasp in air. Lucifer squirmed against him, making an effort to climb his suit up to his shoulder. Castiel loosened his grip on the small cat as he heard Dick's footstep finally move down the hall.
He refused to look through the door's peephole.
For the smallest fraction of a moment, he had almost given in. He had almost cracked and let Dick into his apartment. Back into his life.
Why the hell had he kept the flowers…?
…-^o^-…
Dean waded his way out of deep sleep at the insistent tone of his phone signaling a call. His numb body moved slowly, fumbling for it in his back pocket. His heavy eyes registered the name 'Cas' on the caller ID and his entire body felt as though it had been shot up with adrenaline. He almost dropped the phone in his haste to answer.
"Ca-Cas?! Hey, man! I was…I was getting worried." He checked the clock. "Geez, man. It's late. Another Brain-Tank-thing?"
'No, Dean. I, uh, had a lot of other things come up at work today. And my phone actually died Saturday night. I'm sorry…'
Dean picked up on the exhaustion in the man's voice. "Well, hey, no big deal. Don't push yourself. We can talk tomorrow."
'No!' Cas answered adamantly, voice twinged with desperation, 'I…I really need to hear your voice, Dean. Can you just…talk to me for a while?'
Dean sat up slowly on the living room sofa. "Yeah, Cas. I want to talk to you, too. I feel like it's been forever since yesterday…" Dean chuckled, thinking suddenly of Lisa and her sudden reappearance.
'Yeah,' Castiel murmured on his end.
"What are you doing? Getting ready for bed?" Dean's tone shifted slightly, the obvious notes of lust slipping into his words.
He could hear Castiel's smile as he answered in a husky whisper, 'Already in bed, actually.'
Dean's eyebrows shot up. He was wide awake now. "Oh, yeah?" He purred. "What are you wearing? Those hot pajama pants? Or nothing?" Shit, please say nothing, Dean pleaded silently as he grinned to himself.
'Not a thing,' came Castiel's hushed reply, followed by an almost imperceptible low moaning sound.
Dean's breath hitched. He knew that sound.
"Are...are you touching yourself!?" Castiel just chuckled in his deep gravelly voice in answer. "Dammit, Cas. That's my job! Shit- wait, okay? I-I can be there in, like, twenty minutes-" he was already on his feet scrambling to grab his keys and wallet.
Castiel just chuckled, 'Don't bother- I'll be done long before you get here. And I'm too tired to get up again to unlock the door...'
"Fuck, Cas- you're killin' me!" Dean practically whined, heading straight for his room through the darkness instead. "Tell me where you're touching yourself. Describe it for me, Babe." Dean sent up a quick prayer of thanks that Sam was apparently not coming home tonight.
Castiel's laugh sent shivers through Dean's entire body. He felt himself hardening as he tried to strip hurriedly while keeping the phone pressed to ear. 'Well, I have the phone on speaker so I can use both hands…'
"Oh, fuck me- Where are your damn hands at Cas?" Dean palmed his rigid member as soon as his pants and boxers slid down his legs. He stumbled gracelessly, trying to kick them off as he moved.
'Hmm…one is rubbing my nipples…you know how I like that, remember?'
Dean almost choked. Of course he remembered. Cas' nipples were crazy sensitive. They had a direct connection to his cock. Dean's entire body was already flushed and tingling. His heart was hammering in his chest.
"Mmm…fuck, yeah, I remember. Shit- what are you doing to them?" He slipped backwards onto his bed, relaxing into it as Cas' voice hummed through the phone.
'I'm taking turns, pinching then rubbing them both. I wish I had your tongue here to give them a warm lick. That would feel…mmm…so good.'
"Ah…fuck-!" Dean stroked himself harder, picturing Cas laid out completely naked on his huge bed, his nipples red and perky from attention. "The other one- ah…! Where is your other hand, Cas?" Dean demanded.
Castiel's breathy laugh was cut short by his needy moan. 'Guess...'
"Son-of-a-" Dean murmured, throwing his head back. It sounded like Cas was already close. Dean felt like he wasn't going to last much longer either. "Tell me how it feels, Cas. What are you thinking of?"
'I'm thinking of you…' Dean's strokes became rougher, more erratic as Cas struggled to speak '…those dirty coveralls pooled at your feet. Your greasy hands all over my body as you…unh…take me from behind…leaning me- over the- Impala-Ahhh-!'
The sound of Castiel's shaky voice ending in a stammering moan as he came sent Dean careening over the edge himself. He bucked up, into his tight grip, milking his orgasm as he writhed and shuddered.
For several moments the only sound on either side of the line was heavy breathing and gasps.
"Mmm…we have GOT to do that more often." Dean managed when he could finally speak again.
Castiel's tired laugh sounded from the other end. 'Mmm. Definitely, Dean.' There was more silence filled by only the sound of breathing. Neither man wanted to end the call, so they waited listening to the other as their breaths slowed.
"…Cas?" Dean whispered.
'Unn…?' Came the weak reply.
For a moment Dean almost started to tell him about Lisa's return. He wanted to get it off his chest. The heavy burden of the secret felt alien to him. Cas should know. He should have a chance to hear how Dean felt. About the proposal nightmare. The months of depression. The anger at her sudden return, and her request to see him.
But something kept his mouth shut. It felt almost like fear. A small nagging concern that what they had could 'change' at the admission. That the knowledge that Dean had been so close to belonging to Lisa would somehow up-end his and Cas' happiness.
'Dean…?' Cas' voice drifted to him, sounding as if he was barely holding out from sleep.
"Nevermind, Cas. Get some sleep. I'll call you tomorrow and we'll hang out, alright?"
'Mmm…night, Dean…'
"Goodnight, Cas…"
…-^o^-…
The diner had just opened at six a.m.
A tired Tessa smiled when she saw the old man, Ted, already standing outside the door as she flipped the sign. He was staring at the rising sun, it's golden rays cresting over the trees and shadowed statues of the cemetery far in the distance. He had a cigarette in one hand and a cheap-looking cell phone in the other.
Tessa beckoned him in with a smile, overhearing his words as he put out his cigarette and stepped in through the door.
"That's a very interesting development. You think it has something to do with the new man, Dean...?" He paused listening to the other line. He chuckled quietly at what was said. "Yes, he's a hopeless romantic, isn't he? It's a complication, but I don't think you need to take any action. Love tends to be…resilient. If it is meant to be, then it will be. Don't try to force it. Are we any closer to a solution to this problem?" He listened again, taking his seat in the familiar corner booth.
Chuck stepped out from the back kitchen and moved around the corner carrying two mugs and a steaming coffee pot. He joined Ted, waiting patiently for him to finish his call.
"I see. Well, for now leave it to him. He's sharper than he realizes. You should take care of yourself, too. You're in just as much danger. Tread carefully." He listened for a moment more, smiling to himself. "Yes. Alright, son. Let me know if anything else changes. Good-bye."
Tessa stepped over carefully, having been eavesdropping. She tried to sound unsuspicious as she asked, "Son? Oh, was that one of your sons on the phone?"
Ted smiled at her and answered carefully, "Yes...in a way. That was my other son, the one I mentioned before. The one that's not really mine...but he feels like it." His eyes drifted for a moment. "He's a good boy. Clever. I worry about him, though." His smile returned. "I worry about all three of them. They have a tough road ahead…"
"Well, I'm glad that you're in touch with somebody, at least." She smiled brightly, the concern leaving her voice. She hummed to herself as she moved away, setting up the rest of the diner for customers.
She left Chuck and Ted to their coffee.
They made an interesting pair, neither speaking, both sipping their drinks and staring out the window, as if their minds were elsewhere.
…-^o^-…
Castiel frowned to himself. He stared at his phone, hidden under the conference table while he read Dean's text.
Dean: road house tonight?
Castiel sighed. To say his schedule was packed would be an understatement. He had no idea how Naomi was fitting everything in as it was. She seemed to be able to bend space and time to her agenda.
He had just spent most of the morning being briefed by the company accountant, who covered the monetary losses and how they were trying to hire specialists to digitally track it. Then by the company stockbroker and his team, who presented figures and charts to show anticipated losses and how to preemptively counter them before the media attacked.
Then, by the PR team, led by a noticeably-tired looking Dick, who appeared to be pretending the previous night had not happened. He tried to smile brightly and stood uncomfortably close to Castiel as he detailed how Castiel should act, what key words he should say, what wardrobe they had picked out for him that would reel in the most public support (Castiel had no idea how the pattern of his tie played into people taking his side, but Dick had an entire stack of data to support it).
They ended up 'fixing' his appearance, spending almost two hours giving him an expensive hair trim and setting him up with an untailored, but still impressive, new suit. Only for the time being, they insisted.
It seemed like the large group covered every possible scenario and obstacle. But, when Dick had begun discussing the matter of Castiel's sexuality, with the strong recommendation from his team that the topic should be completely avoided at all costs, Castiel almost exploded from the embarrassment.
Here he was, packed into a secure room with over twenty of the company's most valuable department heads, talking about his sex life. He almost wanted to verbally attack Dick, demanding whether their own prior relationship was also off-limits for discussion. Embarrass him right back.
But, then, Dick had never been secretive about their relationship. In fact, just like the scene with Metatron, bragging about their relationship was something Dick had never been able to pass on. He had always walked proudly into any restaurant or store alongside Castiel, as if their being together was perfectly natural.
It had been...nice having someone proud to be with him. Even if Dick took it to the extreme and ran his mouth off a bit too often.
Castiel remembered what Dick had said the night before: that he was just bragging; that he was upset that people would accuse him of dating Castiel for his name only.
Classic Dick. He had to protect his ego.
Now it was early afternoon with no end in sight. He eyed the text from Dean again, the dull hum of the voices discussing the handling of company taxes almost putting him to sleep.
This wasn't his life. He couldn't follow what the voices were saying. He would need a Master's Degree to understand them. He began texting Dean back.
Castiel: Sorry, not looking possible. Very busy again.
He returned his gaze to the power point at the front of the room while he waited for a response.
His phone vibrated in his hand. He glanced down.
Dean: that sucks. maybe 2morrow?
Castiel sighed again. How could he even plan time to spend with Dean. His entire schedule for the next several months was already being laid out by Naomi and the teams. And it was only going to get worse once the media caught wind of everything.
Castiel suddenly sat up straight with a terrifying jolt of realization. It occurred to him, for the first time, that if the media came after him, then Dean could easily get caught in the crossfire.
What would happen if they found out about his relationship with Dean?
If they were going to go on a witch hunt, then would that lead them to Dean's door?
Would Dean need a security detail? What about the Auto Repair Shop? Would the workers there be safe from questioning? And the Road House?
How out-of-control could this get? Would his relationship with Dean be thrown into the public limelight? Broadcast all over television for the world to see?!
He had to warn him-! Tell him everything! Dean hadn't signed up for any of this- what if he- what if Dean didn't want to deal with it all-?
Castiel mind raced and he felt himself become lightheaded, his stomach giving an abrupt roll. He staggered from his chair, drawing the attention of the entire room.
He lurched for the door, darkness creeping into his vision.
Don't pass out, He thought desperately to himself. Not here. Got to call Dean. He needs to know…
Just as he felt himself begin to stumble, a strong grip caught his arm and kept him on his shaky feet..
"I believe we are overdue for a break. Everyone take thirty minutes." Dick stated calmly, as if nothing was wrong. However, the authority in his voice was clear. He gripped Castiel's elbow, practically holding him up as he led him from the room over to his own office down the hall.
Castiel had chosen to remain on the ninth floor. As the passed the secretary's desk, Castiel managed to catch Charlie's face in his blurry vision as they passed. She began to rise, asking worriedly, "Boss, are you okay?" Jess and Anna were on their feet immediately, as well.
Ruby suddenly appeared at his side, taking his other arm as she opened his office door for them.
Castiel wasn't sure how long had passed with his heart racing painfully and his head pounding, but found himself leaning back in his chair, a damp rag placed over his eyes. Someone was holding his hand, squeezing gently. He used his other hand to pull away the rag, and realized it was Dick sitting beside him, face tense with worry.
Naomi was by the door whispering instructions to Ruby, who was nodding and casting Castiel nervous glances. Alfie was by the phone, speaking quietly to someone. "No, sir, we will resume the briefs later this afternoon. Everyone is standing by…No, Mr. Novak is fine-just forgot to eat breakfast this morning. Too eager to get in to work, sir. Nothing to be concerned about, sir…Yes, sir. Yes, I'll let Naomi know to call you with an update…Yes, sir." He sat the phone down, and spoke quietly to Naomi, "Michael, ma'am."
Castiel watched as Naomi nodded. She dismissed Ruby, shutting the office door.
Both Naomi and Dick's eyes fell on him. They looked concerned, like he was going to pass out or throw up without warning.
"Mr. Novak, how are you feeling?" Naomi finally asked gently.
"I…I'm fine, Naomi. Just had a bad turn." He mumbled. He felt a small squeeze on his hand again and made an effort to pull it from Dick's. The other man held fast, and Castiel eventually gave up.
Naomi eyed him warily, then gave Dick a look. Dick cleared his throat, turning to Castiel. "You…dropped your phone." He nodded his head to the desk where Castiel's phone was sitting. There was another moment of uncomfortable silence before Dick continued, "We…noticed the text. From 'Dean'." His voice chilled a bit at the mention of Dean's name.
Castiel sucked in breath. "You…you shouldn't be reading my personal texts, Dick." He yanked his hand back, and Dick finally released it, giving him a frown.
"This is about him, isn't it? Castiel, you practically passed out in front of the entire team. Do you know how bad that looks? Tell us what's wrong!"
Castiel considered not saying anything, but he knew that would only hurt Dean in the long run. He intentionally turned away from Dick to address Naomi. "We…we're going to need to warn Dean, aren't we? Brief him about everything. The media. The questions. All of it."
Naomi frowned, nodding slowly. "We had not...anticipated that you would have a local boyfriend. I'm afraid he is going to be pulled into this, as well. If we had-" She caught herself, looking away in embarrassment.
"What is it, Naomi?"
Dick answered, instead. "If we had taken this operation to Head Quarters, like planned, then we could have kept 'Dean' out of all of this." He seemed to want to say something else, and finally muttered quietly, "We still can."
Castiel's head turned fast, his temper flaring. "I'm not leaving Dean just because the company is having a rough time, Dick!"
Dick lost his own calm, snapping back, "Well, do it for him then! You think he wants to be on the front page of every newspaper in the country as the 'mistress' of the ADA Head? That's what they'll all say, you know! How is that a better option? You're not-" He cut himself off to cross the room and calm down. He hissed lowly, "You're not thinking clearly. You've know him, what? Three weeks now?"
Castiel was furious, but he wasn't sure if it was all because of Dick, or his own stupidity. Of course Dean would be in danger. The press would be suspicious of why Castiel hadn't taken up residence in San Diego to lead the company. How long before they discovered Dean?
The familiar feeling of lightheadedness and nausea hit Castiel again. He cupped his aching head in his hands. After a few more moments he lifted it and addressed Naomi again. "Do whatever you need to ensure Dean is protected. But, I…I want to be the one to explain all this to him."
Dick let out an exasperated sigh. "So, are you planning to take him to San Diego? Or are you choosing to stay here? Even knowing how dangerous it is?"
Castiel glared at him, causing Dick's mouth to shut quickly before he could continue. "I am not going to 'take' Dean anywhere. I'm not sure what I'll do. I'll let you know what 'we' decide after I have explained everything to him." He shot Dick one final look before turning to Naomi. "I'm feeling better, Naomi. Let's get back to work."
…-^o^-…
Dean was surprised to find Sam at home when he dropped in for a quick lunch on his break.
"Hey, loser! Don't you have a class or something you're supposed to be at?" Dean asked as he stepped past Sam to head to the kitchen.
Castiel had sent him one final text, just saying that he needed to meet with Dean sometime this evening. He couldn't give a solid time, but suggested that it may be late.
Sam didn't answer.
Dean wasn't sure what to make of the text or Castiel's busy schedule. It suddenly occurred to him that his own brother was dating one of the secretaries in Cas' office. How had he missed that? She would have the low-down on what was keeping Cas stuck at work.
He turned back to his brother, who was shifting nervously, like he had something he wanted to ask Dean. Dean ignored him. "Hey, Sammy, I don't reckon you could hit up Jess about what's up in Cas' office? He got super-busy yesterday and today. Seems pretty stressed."
Sam looked panicked for a second, his mouth moving but no words coming out. After a few moments of stuttering he managed, "Actually, uh, that's what I was hoping to talk with you about. Um, Jess…she mentioned that, uh, that Castiel may be…going away. To San Diego."
Dean frowned at his brother, blinking. Was that what Cas wanted to talk to him about this evening? A business trip to California? "Huh. Well, I guess if it's his job, then he doesn't have much of a choice. Does she know how long it'll be?"
Sam made a face that Dean recognized. It was his, 'I'm about to be the bearer of really bad news and I would give anything in the world not to be' face.
Shit.
"Dean…maybe, uh, maybe Castiel should be the one to talk to you about this. I mean, Jess isn't even his actual secretary. She's not really positive about what's going on."
Sam had Dean's full attention now. "What do you mean 'what's going on'? What does she think is going on?"
"Uh…damn, Dean, I don't know. There's a lot, apparently. None of it looks good..."
Dean raised his eyebrows, waiting. When Sam still wouldn't meet his eye and answer, he asked, "How about you cut the crap and tell me what she told you. Is Cas in trouble?" Dean felt his stomach clench with dread.
"Dean…" Sam muttered, face worried.
"Sam. Spill it."
Sam sighed heavily and shrugged, "She… she says it looks like a pretty serious shake up has happened at the company. Something to do with the Novak family. Gabriel…well, she doesn't know where he is. But, his secretary and Castiel's father's secretary are both assigned to Castiel now. It looks like they want him to move back to San Diego for… well," Sam grimaced, wide-eyes watching his brother sadly, "probably a long time, from what she's overheard in the office. Maybe…permanently."
He watched his brother's face. At first, it seemed like Dean was going to blow it all off, but then his face dropped and doubt filled his eyes.
"You…you think Cas is-" He swallowed and his eyes darted everywhere as he tried to think. "You think Cas is gonna break-up with me? And go to San Diego? Like, forever?"
Sam had a strong sense of déjà vu suddenly. This was almost exactly like when Lisa bailed.
"Dean…I…I don't know anything. Neither does Jess. It's mostly just speculation. You need to talk to Cas, okay? Maybe this is all just a huge misunderstanding." Sam was really wishing he hadn't said anything. But, he couldn't leave Dean to deal with this by himself. Not again.
Dean was nodding his head, but his mind was reeling.
Cas couldn't leave him.
If Cas left…he would…
He needed to see Cas. Right this second.
Dean abruptly turned and headed back to the door.
"Dean? Where are you going, man?" Sam asked trying to follow him, nervous about what his brother was going to do.
"Just- just call Jess. Tell her I need to get up to Cas' office to see him. Right now."
Without another word, Dean hopped into his car, peeling out as he left the driveway. Sam stared after him.
He hadn't even had a chance to bring up Castiel's Ex...
This was going to be bad.
…-^o^-…
The ADA building was enormous and ritzy.
If Jess hadn't met him in the lobby, he wasn't sure what he would have done. Security was tight. He was being eyed warily by several guards as soon as he stepped inside.
And no surprise. He was wearing a tattered pair of jeans and an old t-shirt. The rest of the people bustling around the lobby were decked out in suits and ties.
At least he wasn't in his dirty coveralls. His mind immediately flashed to the conversation from the night before. Cas' fantasy of his coverall pooled on the-
Fuck. He needed to see Cas. Fast. He needed to clear all of this up. It was probably just Sammy and Jess over-reacting.
Across the lobby, elevator door opened and Jess stepped out, eyes landing on him quickly. She was clearly nervous. She waved at the front desk, and the security personnel relaxed, but still gave Dean suspicious looks. He smirked and waved cheerfully at them.
She beckoned him into the elevator with her. The doors closed and Dean watched as the lights lit up for each floor. When Jess spoke, Dean almost jumped, pulled from his worried thoughts.
"Dean, I really don't think this is a good time. Castiel's so busy and there are a lot of important people around."
"Sorry, Jess, but I don't care. I need to know if any of this is true. If Cas is really…" He couldn't say it.
"Dean, it's…it's not just that. Um, Sam didn't mention it, but, uh one of the executives-" The elevator door dinged their arrival on the ninth floor. It opened and Dean moved forward with Jess right behind him, still trying to find the words to warn him about Dick Roman.
Charlie and Anna were already in front of their desks, moving forward to cut Dean off. Jess had explained that Dean was on his way as soon as she hung up with Sam.
The women held up their hands to slow him down and began speaking emphatically at the same time. Their voices just mingled with Jess's combining into a dull roar that Dean ignored as he tried to figure out where Castiel was.
Where was he? Which office was Cas'?
A door opened down the long hallway and a blond woman with long hair stuck her head out, clearly annoyed. When she saw Dean and the nervous group of women flanking him, she darted out. As she approached she was already hissing in low, hushed tones.
"Is that- Is this 'Dean'? Are you fucking insane? He cannot be here. Get him out! Now!" She cast a nervous look over her shoulder, and Dean saw a man open the same door she had come from. He frowned down the hall, before his eyes locked on Dean.
His eyes narrowed for the barest flash of a second.
The man stepped out and began following the blond woman down the hall towards him. Dean wasn't sure what to think. The man's face had shifted quickly into a friendly smile, his teeth flashing a pearly white that Dean could see all the way from where he stood. It was completely in contrast with the first look he had aimed at him.
The blond woman turned her wide-eyes quickly to Dean, as if trying to signal him to leave- fast. The other women were frozen where they stood between Dean and the approaching man.
"You MUST be Dean Winchester, am I right? Dick Roman." His smile was wide as he extended his hand. Unsure what else to do, Dean took the man's hand, but not before noticing his eyebrows dart up as he noted the grime that never seemed to wash out of the creases and nails of Dean's own rough hands.
"Uh, yeah. I'm, uh, I'm here to talk to Cas-er, Castiel Novak, I mean." He took his hand back, fighting the urge to try and wipe the dirt away belatedly.
This man made Dean feel…well, like a greasy mechanic. He was tall, with immaculate brown hair and neat nails. His suit looked like it cost a fortune and fit him like a glove. His eyes were sharp, cutting into Dean as if he knew exactly what Dean was thinking.
Dean gritted his teeth. This was exactly the kind of businessman that Dean and the guys at the shop liked to mock. A damn 'suit'.
"Ladies, I'm sure you all have work to do." Dick said in the direction of the women without bothering to even turn his gaze from Dean. Then he gestured smoothly, still smiling, for Dean to walk with him into an atrium area near the elevator. A few small groups of people were passing around them. As they walked he spoke in an even tone, "I'm so sorry, Dean. Castiel is stuck in an important meeting. I'm keeping him very busy, you see. Could I take him a message?"
The man's voice even sounded rich and snobby. Dean forced the words out, trying to be civil. "No. I'll wait here for him, Dick. Thanks anyway." He stopped moving abruptly, making it clear that he was going to stay right there, in the middle of the hallway until Castiel appeared.
Dick's smile faltered and Dean caught the glimpse of another crack in his smooth demeanor. "I'm afraid that isn't acceptable. You see, Castiel and I have a great deal of work to do today. It could take… all night."
Dean's shackles raised and he fought not to lose his temper.
So that's how it was. This guy in the fancy suit with his stupid fake smile 'wanted' Cas.
Dean's Cas.
"I'm afraid, Dick, that Castiel has already made plans with me for this evening."
Dick's eyes hardened, but, dammit-all, his smile stayed in place.
"My mistake. I assumed after I left his apartment 'last night' that we would be meeting aga-"
It was a sudden, uncontrollable knee-jerk reaction. One second Dean was annoyed the next he was seeing red and swinging out blindly.
Dean's punch landed square across the man's left jaw, sending him slamming hard into the wall.
Dean heard several screams of surprise and shouts as doors were thrown open all along the hallway. Several people were yelling for Security.
Dick managed to recover quickly, blood trickling from the side of his mouth. He produced a handkerchief from somewhere, and, for just a moment, all Dean could think was 'Wow. People actually still carry those things?'.
But then Dick was smirking and Dean had a sinking feeling that the man had planned it. All of it. The punch had been staged. Dean had been 'set-up'.
Oh, fuck-
"Dean?!" Dean turned guiltily as a large crowd from the direction of the room down the hall all moved hastily aside for Castiel to pass. Dean's mouth nearly dropped. It was Cas, but…he looked different. His hair was slicked down neatly. His suit was of a much better quality than he usually wore, and Dean didn't even know all that much about suits. His polished shoes gleamed in the light from the many windows. He looked handsome, but…not like the Cas that Dean knew. Who was this?
Castiel looked angrily from Dick to Dean, taking in the dripping blood and Dick's suddenly pained expression. His face settled into a stormy frown.
"What the hell is going on here?" He demanded, looking back and forth between the two men.
To Dean's surprise, Dick did not immediately begin sniveling and try to dime him out. He just patted tenderly at his bleeding mouth, not looking at Castiel.
Castiel's eyes fell on Dean and stayed. Dean could see the confusion and anger, but also a hint of something else deep in the blue. Fear. Just enough of a flicker to make Dean's heart stutter.
"Cas," He tried, his voice barely working for him, "I…I didn't mean to-"
The elevator dinged nearby and a six enormous security guards piled out hurrying directly to Dean and grasping him roughly. Dean was tempted to push them off, but Castiel's solemn eyes were still locked on his. He couldn't tear his own away, trying to somehow communicate how sorry he was.
One of the beefy guards spoke up, addressing Dick, "Sorry, sir. We responded as soon as we got the call. The cameras on this floor are, uh, apparently malfunctioning. How do you want us to handle him?"
"You're not 'handling' anything. Let him go. Now." Castiel's voice boomed in the sudden silence, all eyes turning to him.
"I- I'm sorry Mr. Novak. But, you don't have the authority to issue those orders to us. This man has assaulted a company Executive. This is above your pay grade."
A large majority of the audience standing around Castiel suddenly erupted into indignant shouts and furious orders, confusing the security team and making the main speaker look very nervous.
But, it was Dick's voice that cut through the the rest, clear and sharp with threat. "That's quite enough, everyone!" He settled a steely glare on the head guard. "If Mr. Novak says to release that man, then you had better do it. Now!"
The security team not only released Dean, but gave him a solid five foot radius, their worried eyes shifting between Dick and Castiel. Dick dabbed one more time at his lip before calling out loudly, "Everyone, back to work! Move!"
The crowd scattered, darting back into the many rooms along the hall. The guards retreated back into the elevator like sardines squeezing into a tin can.
Jess, Anna and the other two women hurried back to their desks, but Castiel stopped them, "Ladies, please give us a few minutes." They nodded quickly and left the area. Dean watched them disappear around a corner with a growing sense of dread.
"I want to know EXACTLY what happened." Castiel ground out when they were finally alone.
Both Dean and Dick shifted uncomfortably once more under his glare. Neither spoke.
Dean had never seen this side of Castiel before. He seemed significantly less adorable, but somehow, about a hundred times 'sexier'. The new get-up didn't help. Furious looked good on him. Too bad Dean was the focus of the man's anger.
"Fine." Castiel practically spat out when neither answered. "Dick- get back into the damn conference room." It seemed as though Dick hadn't expected the sudden dismissal. He began to open his mouth to speak when Castiel snapped, "I said go!"
Dick gave a curt nod, then walked away stiffly back down the hall, still dabbing at his trickling nose.
Dean almost wished he hadn't left, bastard though he was.
It left him alone.
With a very hot- very pissed off- Cas.
For several moments they stood in silence. Castiel was clearly trying to reign in his temper. His eyes were glaring at the carpet, brows furrowed. Dean wanted to say something, an apology- anything. But, he realized he was 'afraid'.
Afraid that Cas was going to yell at him-
Hate him-
Leave him to go to San Diego.
So he waited, heart pounding.
"What did he say to you?" Castiel eventually spoke, his voice considerably more calm than when he had addressed Dick. He still kept his eyes turned away from Dean, but his softer tone gave Dean hope.
Dean shrugged, unsure how to explain the other man's obvious baiting. "He said he was…that he with you last night...at your apartment." Dean finally mumbled. He watched as Castiel frowned deeper, then nodded in understanding. For a moment Dean was sure his heart stopped. He choked out, "He- he wasn't, right? Cas...?"
Castiel sighed and looked up at him finally. "He came over to my apartment last night, yes."
Dean gaped, not sure who he was more upset at, Dick or Castiel. "Wh-what do you mean 'he came over to your god damn apartment', Cas?! Why the hell would that D-bag come over to your apartment at night? I thought he's some 'fancy Executive'. What would he want with you?" He couldn't find the words to ask anything else. Like what they did together. But the thought was there, slamming furiously against the walls of Dean's mind, relentlessly demanding an answer.
Castiel sighed. "I'm surprised he didn't tell you already. He usually never misses a chance to brag." Dean was frozen as Castiel kept speaking, "Dick… He's my Ex, Dean. He came over last night because he doesn't want us to break-up. I turned him away at the door."
Dean tried processing the information but it was slow work.
The Grade 'A' jackass that had just intentionally riled him up was Castiel's old boyfriend? He had just 'punched' Castiel's dirtbag ex-boyfriend...?
The words slipped out before Dean could stop them, "Well, hell! If I'd known that, I would've gotten a few more punches in!"
He shut up as Castiel's eyes flared with disapproval. "Dean, that is not amusing. Do you realize how serious this is? Dick is one of the highest ranked members of this organization. He has the power and authority to make your life hell. You can't-" He tried to get himself back under control, "Dean, you can't just…come into my workplace and start swinging at people." He ended quietly, exhaustion edging his voice.
Dean cringed at Castiel's words. He felt like a worthless sack of shit. He needed to go bury himself in a hole and die of shame.
He had hurt Castiel.
Embarrassed him in front of his entire office.
Fuck- he was acting like a damn idiot.
"Cas, I'm sorry. I-I just came over because…well, there are some rumors…."
Castiel's eyes widened and he looked suddenly worried. "What-what rumors, Dean?"
"That you're...you're gonna leave. Gonna go back to San Diego and may not come back..." Dean looked away, his chest tightening just saying the words.
He waited for Castiel to deny them.
And kept waiting.
"Cas...?"
"Dean, I-" he began, faltering. "Listen, things are…really up-in-the-air right now. It's going to get…tough. We might not be able to see each other as much as we would like. But, I'm NOT going anywhere. We…we're serious about being together…aren't we?"
The note of doubt in his voice hit Dean like a bucket of ice water. "Of course we're serious, Cas-! Are you joking? What would make you think I wasn't serious about you?"
Castiel flinched and shook his head. "It's nothing. I just," He ran his hands through his hair, messing up the slicked down strands. His deep blue eyes finally locked onto Dean's and stayed.
Dean couldn't help but grin softly.
There was his Cas.
He had been hiding under that fancy suit and expensive looking haircut, after all.
Castiel looked around the nearly abandoned office with a frown before turning his blue eyes to Dean. "I have…a lot that I need to go over with you. I can't do it here. Are we, uh, still on for tonight? My place?"
Dean smiled, and nodded, wanting desperately to pull Cas into a kiss and never let go. "Yeah, you can tell me what all is going on tonight, Cas." He beamed as Cas' face finally broke into a hopeful smile. "Bring it on."
He leaned forward, tugging gently at Castiel's tie to pull him into a soft kiss.
"Would you like me to add that meeting into your schedule for today, Mr. Novak?"
The two men jerked apart as if they were burned. Castiel spun around, face red. "Alfie? How-! I-I asked for some privacy!"
"Oh, sorry sir! You just said 'Ladies', so I figured you didn't mind me being here." His head leaned out from behind the computer desk where he sat, blinking innocently.
"I didn't even know you were THERE, Alfie! How do you keep doing that?!"
"Sir?"
Castiel shook his head, and turned back to Dean, with a frustrated sigh. His blue eyes met Dean's with a small, hopeful smile. "Tonight?"
"Yeah, tonight." Dean grinned, taking Castiel's hand and giving it a gentle squeeze.
…-^o^-…
Once Dean had departed into the elevator, Castiel turned to Alfie with a frown. The young man looked up and gave him the usual bright smile.
The kid seemed nice. And he was certainly well-qualified, especially for an intern. If he didn't have the odd habit of blending in unnoticed so well, he would actually be a great worker to have around. When had he started working in the ADA Head office...?
Castiel sighed to himself. He needed to return to the meeting. There had been too many interruptions today. If he kept this up, he'd never get home to meet Dean this evening.
A sudden thought struck him.
"Hey, uh, Alfie?"
"Yes, sir?"
"Would you mind picking some items up at the grocery store for me?"
"Absolutely, sir!"
Castiel smiled to himself.
He owed Dean an apple pie...
Anyone else want to high-five Dean for knocking the shit out of Dick? (Raises hand)
Let me know how you all are feeling. Things are starting to escalate so fast!
Next up: How is Cas going to keep Dean safe?
And why is Lisa back?
What will Cas say when he finds out?