Beta: InThePalmOfMyHand
I want you all to know before reading this chapter that I have been planning this out since the very beginning. We've been working up to this point.
Please don't hate me.
'This is not a good idea, Castiel. For the record, I do not approve.'
Castiel tried not to cringe visibly as Michael's irritated voice carried into the room through the phone speakers. They were having a virtual tele-conference with the portion of the team that was holding down the fort in San Diego.
Dean had left almost an hour before. Dick was sitting sullenly at Castiel's left, still nursing his swollen jaw.
"I understand, Michael." So far, Michael had made it very clear that Castiel's decision to remain in Lawrence was an unacceptable risk, not to mention a huge burden on everyone.
Castiel fought the urge to submit to Michael's will. It had been ingrained in him for the last decade that Michael was his father's second-hand man. It was Michael who should be running the company in his father's absence. Michael was the one qualified to do it. In all seriousness, Castiel should have been heeding all advice the man gave.
But, that was not how it had worked out. By some insane or senile decision by his father, Castiel was the one responsible for the entire company.
A company that was riddled with spies and scandals.
'Are you planning to ever return to San Diego? Or do we need to establish Lawrence as the new ADA Headquarters?' It was clear from his tone that he was being sarcastic. Even Castiel caught it.
"That's…I will have an answer for you tomorrow." Castiel stated.
'Why tomorrow? Why not now? I don't know if you are aware of it, but the company is racing against the clock to stay afloat. We need to make your ascension to power known as soon as possible. We can't afford to waste time.' The rest of the team packed in the room shifted uncomfortably, not looking at Castiel.
He searched for the right words. "I plan to- to discuss the matter with my…" He paused, clenching his teeth. He wasn't sure who all knew about Dean. Or even if Michael had been briefed about the 'local boyfriend', as Naomi had put it. He wished there weren't so many people listening. But then, they were all a part of protecting his image, so if they weren't aware that he was gay, then they needed to get up to speed- fast. "I'm telling my boyfriend, Dean, this evening. My decision of whether to stay or leave is up to him. If he will…come with me to California or choose to stay here."
The awkward silence that filled the room hurt Castiel's burning ears.
'…I see.' Came Michael's stony voice through the static of the phone. 'I'm sure we can all rest easy tonight, knowing that the handling of the company is being left to the whims of a mechanic.'
In the gaping silence that followed Michael's words, the voice of Balthazar filled the line from the same end, his drawling british accent cheerful as he supplied, 'Easy now, Mikey. He's not just some mechanic. He's also in a band. The lead singer, in fact! Isn't that so, Cassie?'
Castiel winced. He could practically feel Michael's silent fury spilling out of the phone connection. "Yes. Thanks, Balthazar…."
…-^o^-…
"Castiel!" Dick's voice rang out down the hallway. They had finally ended the tele-conference from Hell, and Castiel was making a quick escape to his office so he could take a few moments, undisturbed, to slam his head into the hard surface of his desk- not for the first time since he got the news of his 'promotion' yesterday morning.
He took several calming breaths, slowing down so Dick could catch up.
"Were you serious in there? Are you actually going to leave all of this up to that-" Castiel snapped his head around to shoot Dick a glare. Whatever he had been about to call Dean died on his tongue. He rallied, "I'm just…I'm concerned, Castiel. Everyone is. Think about this rationally, from our point of view. You barely know this man! How can you leave the fate of the entire company in his hands? It's terrifying the hold he has over you! Don't you see why Michael and the rest of us are worried?"
His eyes were pleading, and his words silky and reasonable. Castiel tried to shake them off, turning to continue to his office. "I won't tell you again, Dick. Stay out of mine and Dean's relationship!"
Dick caught the door, glancing around before meeting Castiel's eye and whispering, "You're taking this too far, Castiel. Getting too attached this stranger. And for what? So you can have a pretty face to wake up to? Someone who will 'bottom' for you, for a change? Because, I've been thinking, I could reconsider-"
Castiel groaned in exasperation, shaking his head slowly, "Dean isn't even a 'bottom' Dick. And this isn't about his looks! Listen carefully, because I am not saying this again." He held Dick's gaze, "It's my decision whether or not to stay in Lawrence. If I want Dean to be a part of that decision, then that is none of your business."
He shut the door to his office firmly in Dick's face, cutting off the argument he was about to make.
…-^o^-...
Dick stared at the door that had just shut inches from his face. This was becoming a bad habit of Castiel's.
He probably picked it up hanging around that uncouth mechanic and his pack of bottom-dwelling friends.
He pulled his phone from his pocket, and dialed a number.
After a few moments, the other line picked up.
"Do you have the information I asked for?" He asked quietly, eyeing Castiel's door and moving his gaze to the secretaries seated at their desks a few meters away. He took long strides across the hall to the privacy of the atrium area.
"Yes…Yes, I already know all that….Okay…. Hmm, that might work…Wha-? Wait, say that again… You are positive it's her?…." Dick stood stunned as the investigator on the other end of the line repeated the information again. He listened, frowning in disbelief at first.
Then his face split into a wide, shark-like grin.
"Give me the address where she is staying."
After a few moments of quick scribbling into a notepad, and another short exchange, Dick hung up his cell phone.
He collapsed into one of the available chairs, a flood of euphoria rushing through him.
He had him. He definitely had Dean now.
He just needed to play it out exactly right.
Dean Winchester's world was about to come crashing down around him. And Dick was going to make sure Castiel witnessed the full-scale of the disaster so he would finally come to realize what a huge mistake he had made by believing in the mechanic.
…-^o^-…
"Geez, Bobby! I'd like to get off sometime today, if that's okay with you. I gotta meet up with Cas tonight." Dean's whining voice filled the bay, earning whistles and cat-calls from the other mechanics.
"Well, you should have thought about that before you decided to take an extended lunch break, you idjit!"
Dean grimaced. Bobby was right. Dean hadn't even thought to call the shop when he decided to storm into the ADA. By the time he made it back to work, Bobby had been waiting to give him an earful.
On top of that, Sam had left a stinging voice mail on Dean's phone. It pretty much said that if Dean ever did something so fucking stupid that jeopardized Jess's job again, that Sam was going to take a sledgehammer to the Impala.
Of course, he wasn't serious. Just a threat.
…Probably.
Dean had no intention to find out, regardless.
None of the anger directed his way that afternoon could spoil his mood anyway. He was meeting up with Cas tonight. They were going to talk all of this out and fix whatever was bothering Cas and stressing him out. Then they were going to have crazy, barely-legal sex into the wee hours of the morning.
At least, if Dean had any say in the matter.
He grinned to himself, pulling out his phone for almost the twentieth time since returning from lunch. He re-read the text Cas had sent him a few hours ago.
C: I should be out of the office by eight. Planning a special treat for you. Call me when you are on your way over.
Dean smiled like an idiot at the phone. A treat, huh? Dean was letting his imagination run rampant, the anticipation already making him hard.
"Hello again, Mr. Winchester."
Dean's smile dropped instantly, his hand clenching tightly around the phone. "Oh, hello again, 'Prick'. Wasn't expecting to see you again so soon. How's the jaw?" He turned to meet the condescending smile of Dick Roman for the second time that day.
"Haha. I'm doing exceptionally well, Dean. Thank you for asking. I was hoping you and I could have a … little chat. Is there somewhere private we could speak?" His eyes trailed disdainfully over the squalor of the garage, before returning to smile smugly at Dean.
Dean fought back the urge to swing at the man again. Something about the rich bastard's smile really pissed him off.
Dean forced himself to smile back tightly and led him out of the bay, into the lot. He saw the rest of the crew watching them closely as they walked away. Benny sent Dean a quick head lift, silently asking if he wanted back-up. Dean gave one quick shake of his head. He could handle this douche-bag alone.
"So, I'm guessing you aren't here to talk about pressing charges, Prick?" Dean asked nonchalantly, hopping up onto the hood of a wrecked sedan.
Dick smirked, making Dean feel a brief tinge of unease. "No, Mr. Winchester. I understand that you felt the need to 'lash out' in the heat of the moment. Consider it forgiven and forgotten." He strolled a few steps away, his back to Dean.
Dean waited, but after a few moments he asked in annoyance, "So? Why the fuck are you here?"
Dick turned and his face was innocent. "Well, I just wanted to get a feel for the man who won Castiel. He's a tough guy to get close to. How did you manage it? And in such a short time, no less?"
Dean didn't feel like playing this 'jealous-ex' game, but the urge to put Dick into his place was too tempting. "Well, Prick. The thing is, me and Cas hit it off immediately. Didn't even have to work at it." He smiled cheerfully watching the other man closely. To his surprise, the jab did not seem to have any affect on his upbeat demeanor.
"Oh, come on, Dean. You can tell me. What, did you take him out for a nice dinner?"
Dean shrugged his shoulders confidently, "Nope. Just ordered a pizza. Went out for few burgers. Nothing fancy."
"Really? That's it? Hmm." Dick seemed to be thinking hard about Dean's words. "Well, that's quite a change. You see, when Castiel and I were together, we dined out at the very best restaurants- every day. He has a real passion for rare delicacies. I think his favorite dish was…ah, yes! It was Chef's Recommendation at Marvone's. Delicious plate- he insisted on going there constantly. A bit expensive, though. One hundred eighty dollars, I believe…" He trailed off, smiling to himself at the memory.
Dean tried not to let the shock show on his face.
How much? For 'a plate'?! Singular? It took practically a day, maybe two, of hard work for Dean to earn that much money.
Dean tried sound uncaring, "Huh? Too bad for you. You should've gotten him burgers and saved some cash, buddy. He loves those things." Dean grinned at the memories.
Dick's responding chuckle grated on Dean's nerves. "Yes, well. I'm sure it has been rough on him, adjusting to the meager fare of a small city like this. And not just food. Castiel and I had quite the nightlife, as well. He loved the opera- had to go every time they had a performance. Best seats in the house, of course. But, then, dating Castiel can get expensive, so I never thought twice about it." He sent Dean a sympathetic look. "Where have you found to take him around here?"
Dean was practically scowling at this point, but still replied with a sharp smile, "Oh, our activities tend to be centered around the bedroom, for the most part. Why bother leaving the apartment. You know what I mean?" He gave Dick a wink, a happy jolt shooting through him when the man's smile stiffened at the mention of having sex with Castiel.
"Yes. I'm sure you have been very preoccupied with the so-called 'honeymoon' phase." Dick's smile returned, more malicious than ever. "I suppose you haven't had much opportunity to really get to know him, then. Just the basics, I'm sure. Like his favorite color? You must know that by now."
Dean flinched and tried to hide it, but Dick's smile showed he caught the small tell. "Oh. No? Well, that's not very important anyway. I'm sure you've discussed everything else. Like his favorite books? And his plans for vacationing in Italy this year? At his family's properties just outside of Venice? No? Not even that?"
Dean was getting sick of this goading- fast. He jumped off the car, hands fisting at his sides. "Listen jackass, I get that you have a thing for Cas. Trust me, I can't fault you for that. But I have no problem faulting you for fucking up your chances with him. If I understood right, you got busted talking shit about him. Seems like all that textbook knowledge about him didn't cover the fact that he wouldn't put up with that bullshit, huh?"
All semblance of the calm façade had left Dick by this point. His eyes were dark as he snarled at Dean, "I may have made the mistake of losing Castiel, but that is irrelevant. I'll have him back in no time. Do you really think, Dean, that your little 'gay-trist' is going hold Castiel's attention for much longer?" Dean hissed at the man's words.
Dick ignored him, picking up momentum as he held Dean's eyes, "Castiel has just been named the head of the entire ADA."
Dean could only blink at the revelation. He didn't understand much about business. He wasn't even sure where Cas landed in the hierarchy of the ADA before now.
Did this really make such a big difference?
Rich was just…rich, right?
It wasn't like Cas would change with a little bit more money.
Hell, he had a million dollar painting hanging in his apartment like it was nothing. The guy was already wealthy.
And he chose to be with Dean anyway. So, it was no big deal, right?
Dick watched with a satisfied grin as Dean's eyes widened in shock. "Yes- Castiel is in charge now. Of a multi-billion dollar company. He's going to be the toast of every wealthy party across the entire globe, you pathetic moron. You really think he's planning to stay in the middle of 'Nowhere, Kansas' with a penniless, straight repairman."
Dean forced his thoughts to calm as he met the man's eye with a mocking glare, ready to meet Dick on his own terms and start fighting dirty, too. "You think I'm the pathetic one here? Listen closely you desperate fuck-tard. Cas chose to date me 'knowing' that I am a broke mechanic. In fact, he's got a kink for the whole 'greasy coveralls' look. So, if you think that he's gonna take one look at his bank account and suddenly realize that he can't get hard for me because of my minimum wage, then you don't know him as well as you think."
Dick was almost frozen in anger as he clenched and unclenched his jaw. When he finally spoke, the words slid out with icy precision. "What I think, Mr. Winchester, is that you are not even gay." Dean scoffed at the suggestion, but Dick continued, "I think that you have not even stopped to consider what being gay means for you and your 'Average Joe' life. I think Castiel isn't going to put up for long with a straight boyfriend who refuses to 'bottom' for him. Hah! He barely tolerated that when he was with me- one of the few topics we disagreed on. I think when you do come out of your haze of horniness and testosterone, back to reality, that you will agree with me. You are not gay, Dean Winchester. You are having a few weeks of sexual deviance. And I know why."
The last statement was gritted out almost gleefully and Dean stiffened, the man's words already wiggling their way into the dark, insecure corners of his mind. "What the fuck and you talking about?" He managed to growl, stepping dangerously close to Dick's tall form.
"I know about all of it. Your little proposal. The months of pouting and pining for your 'girlfriend'. The one night stands and heavy drinking afterwards. I wonder how Castiel will take finding out that you are still in love with your 'would-be' fiancée? I'm guessing that never came up during the rare occasions when you stopped using him to get yourself off and actually spoke."
Dean had no idea what to say to the accusation. He stood stock-still, mouth hanging open uselessly.
Oh, god. Dick was going to tell Cas about Lisa. About the proposal.
Dean sucked in air, his mind racing desperately, ignoring Dick's gloating smile in front of him. It wasn't that he didn't want Castiel to know about it. He had always planned to tell him. He just didn't think there was a rush.
But, he didn't want Cas to hear Dick's version of it. He wanted to explain it himself. Let him know that it was completely over. Lisa was in the past. She was going to stay there. Cas was his present. His future.
He had to tell Cas about everything before Dick. If Dick had a chance, then he would obviously spin it against Dean. He would try to convince Castiel that Dean was just a straight man going through some 'post-rejection gay phase'. That he wasn't serious.
And that, on top of everything else - the sudden change of status at work, the tough schedule, Dick's presence - it could ruin it all. Everything that they have.
Dean's hands shot out, grabbing Dick by his perfectly tailored suit and shoving him roughly against the side of a stack of cars. "You listen to me, you bastard! Lisa and me- we are done! She walked out of my life and, yeah, I was upset. But I've got Cas now. He is my damn 'boyfriend'. That means I am gay. I don't give two flying fucks about who came before him or the fucking terminology for what we are. Nothing you say to him is going to change that!"
Dick was chuckling as Dean finished. He flicked his hands at where Dean was holding him, pushing him away and stepping out as he smoothed the wrinkles from his suit.
Dean watched him angrily, a small knot of worry working its way into his stomach.
"Dean. Dean. Dean." Dick shook his head, looking away as he smiled. "It's impressive, the lengths that you will go to lie to yourself." He began walking back to the open bay area.
"What the hell is that supposed to mean, fucker?! Hey! I'm not done with you yet!" He followed Dick closely, trying to resist the urge to tackle the man and just start beating the high-holy-fuck out of him, even if doing so would upset Cas again.
But they had come back into view of the rest of the maintenance team, and more importantly, the customers. Dean let the rage writhe inside, fighting to keep it controlled before he made another scene.
He didn't hear Ash's warning call. Or notice the wide-eyed horror in everyone's eyes as they stood staring at him.
His attention was completely focused on Dick. When Dick finally turned, it was to whisper lowly to Dean. His smile was wider than ever- like he had just opened the best Christmas present in the world. "I think you should reconsider this absurd belief of yours that you are gay and that you and Castiel are going to stay together forever." His voice was too low to be heard by anyone else. Dean had to lean in just to catch the words. "After all, not many gay men can say they have a child with a woman."
He turned his head with a smile and Dean followed his gaze to the front of the bay.
Lisa was standing there, near the front office. She sent Dean a nervous smile and a small wave.
But his eyes were locked lower, on the unmistakable bulge of her belly.
A strong hand grasping his shoulder, pulled his numb mind back from the shock of the image in front of him. Dick's voice drifted over him like it was coming from miles away.
"I think it's time you returned to the real world, Mr. Winchester."
…((O_O))…
"Huh." Tessa murmured, gazing out the window of the diner. She turned with a soft smile to Ted, who was sitting silently with Chuck in his usual corner. "Looks like somebody stole your favorite bench, Ted."
The old man lifted his head to look out the window. He smiled gently, "Yes. So it appears."
Without another word, he stood and walked out of the diner. Chuck and Tessa followed with their eyes as he strolled down the street and finally took a seat next to the stranger in front of the cemetery.
"Do you think he knows him?" Tessa asked dumbfounded.
Chuck smiled sadly, turning back to his coffee. "Seems like it."
…((O_O))…
Gabriel was staring sadly at the stolen picture of Ruby's smiling face when someone sat down next to him.
He glanced over at the man, then back to his picture with a low huff.
After a short silence, Gabriel tucked the photo gently back into his jacket and spoke.
"What the hell are you doing here, Dad? The company is falling apart, you know?" He asked quietly.
"Yes. I know." The old man stated calmly, staring out at the people passing down the busy street. "I left you instructions. You were supposed to stay. Help save the company. You and Castiel."
His voice wasn't accusing, but Gabriel stiffened anyway. "That's what you wanted? For me and Cassie to run your damn company for you while you came to Sioux Falls and…and moped over Mom's grave?" His voice cracked at the mention of his mother.
"You need to go back, Gabriel." The soft voice pressed. Gabriel's head snapped around to glare at his father angrily. "Your brother needs you."
Gabriel bit his lip, looking away. "Cassie is strong. He can handle this whole mess that you left behind. He may not realize it, but he can."
His father smiled, and said carefully, "You can, too. You're both very strong. Resourceful."
Gabriel scowled. "Don't try to flatter me, Dad. It's your company. Your job. I came here to bring you back."
His father shook his head slowly, still smiling as he stared at the crowds. "No, Gabriel. You two have to do this alone." Gabriel was about to object angrily, when he stated, "Castiel is in danger."
Gabriel's mouth snapped shut. He blinked at his father for several moments. "What the hell do you mean 'in danger'. From what? And don't say Dick Roman, cause Cassie can kick that loser's ass, easy."
"Not from Mr. Roman, no. At least, I don't think he is a part of this. No, from the spies in the company." Gabriel's face contorted in confusion.
"Well, yeah, Dad. Technically we are all in danger from them."
His father sighed, and turned to his son, smiling sadly. "Yes, but Castiel has a very big weakness. He's too kind-hearted. He has something that they can exploit, doesn't he?" Gabriel frowned. His father continued, "It appears that the spies are aware of his new boyfriend. Tell me, Gabriel, do you think your brother can remain strong if the enemies threaten Dean Winchester?"
Gabriel's face paled and his mouth dropped open.
"Oh…shit." He cursed loudly, jumping to his feet.
Gabriel's father stared after him as he ran away quickly, presumably back to his brother's side.
After several more thoughtful minutes, he stood slowly and made his way back to the diner.
…((O_O))…
Dean knew he was going to puke.
It wasn't a question of 'if' so much as 'when'.
As soon as he had led Lisa into the small break room and locked the door, his shaky legs had given out on him. He barely managed to stumble to a nearby chair.
Now, he sat in the silence of the room, just his and Lisa's breaths filling it. His body felt cold and clammy.
"Dean…?"
His eyes lifted to lock on Lisa's and he asked with a trembling voice, "Is it…mine?"
Lisa stared at him for several moments that seemed to stretch into a millennia. Her beautiful, familiar face was like looking at childhood photographs.
Dean had so many great memories of her.
He knew every crease and line on her face. Knew that if he leaned forward toward her shining black hair he would catch a whiff of her sweet shampoo. Knew those big, brown eyes that were locked onto his.
He knew Lisa. And, God, he had missed her.
It was like a sudden punch to the gut. Everything was coming back to him.
He had wanted to marry this woman. Had spent months with her, years before that as best friends. Lisa was a huge part of his life. Losing her had been like losing Bobby or Ellen or Benny. She had always been with him and beside him. They had spent hours tucked beside each other in bed, sharing secrets and fears, hopes and dreams.
He knew her intimately, just as she knew him.
So he spotted her face crumpling as soon as he asked the question. And she knew he saw it.
She abruptly burst into tears, hands flying to her face. For Dean, it was too much, too suddenly. He was out of his chair, wobbly legs forgotten instantly as he pulled her into a warm, tight hug on the old couch.
"Hey, hey. It's alright. Everything's fine, Lisa. It's all fine." He sat there holding her shaking, sobbing form for the longest time, whispering soothing words into her ear.
When her sobs and trembling finally died down, she spoke, her voice cracking. "I had…a plan. I had a good plan. I was ready. I knew exactly what I was going to say. Been…been practicing for months. I just…I just-" She erupted into more sobs, arms holding Dean tight like she was going to drown if he let go. "Please! Oh, please, god, Dean, don't hate me! Please say you won't hate me- no matter what! Please!"
Dean patted her back as she hiccuped. The fear and desperation in her voice almost stopped his breathing. His chest was tight, heart beating fast. "Lisa, hey. I could never hate you. You know that. I'll never, ever hate you. Just…talk to me, okay? Tell me everything."
This just made Lisa even more upset. Her red-rimmed, brown eyes found Dean's and she held his gaze, trying to gasp in air to speak through her sobs. "I- Oh, Dean! I was going to lie. I was…I was going to tell you- tell everyone it was…that it was yours!"
She choked as she leaned into his chest, and for the first time since seeing Lisa standing pregnant in the garage, Dean breathed in deeply with relief. And maybe ...regret?
"Lisa, you gotta calm down. Okay? I'm right here. I'm ready to listen. Just, breath alright?"
It took several minutes before she calmed down enough to speak without bursting into tears again. Dean listened in silence as she explained her last few months to him.
"I went to my sister's, after I…when I left. I didn't even really pack, you know. Just grabbed a few things and hit the road. Made it to her place in eight hours. I was…Dean, I was so upset with you. I was angry. I wanted…I wanted you to love me. Really love me. Like I- Like I love you. And you didn't." Dean shifted, about to speak, but she stopped him. "No. Don't. I know. Dean, I always knew you didn't love me like I loved you. I just-I just wanted it so bad…."
She paused, eyes staring at nothing, while Dean's hand rubbed gently up and down her arm.
"I forgot my pills." She suddenly let out a humorless laugh, then followed it with a sob and a fresh set of tears. "I forgot my damn birth control pills in your damn bathroom cabinet. But, I was so angry… Dean-" She looked up meeting his eyes again and whispered, "What am I going to do, Dean…?"
He didn't have an answer. Hell, he couldn't even wrap his mind around any of this yet. It was surreal. He had known Lisa for so many years. The fact that she was pregnant was just mind-blowing. How was it possible that Lisa was going to have a baby? Give life to a person?
He stared at her large belly, trying to comprehend the concept of pregnancy and birth. He had never really known a pregnant person before. He tended to steer clear of them when he saw them at the store or anywhere around.
After several moments, he let the words fall out. "Who is the dad?"
It seemed like Lisa wasn't going to answer him, but she finally began speaking, as if the words hurt her physically to say.
"Some punk biker guy. I went…a little crazy for a while there. Didn't care about anything. Just wanted to…to forget you. Didn't care with who. He was the first guy I could find. Had on a Nickleback T-shirt." Dean grimaced, but she kept speaking. "When I found out I was pregnant, I confronted him. He was…" She looked like she was about to start sobbing again at the memory, but Dean pulled her close, resting his head against hers. She took more deep breaths and continued. "He was pissed off. A real bastard about it all. Wouldn't own up to it being his baby. Called me…hateful names."
Dean felt anger coiling in his gut as she spoke. This motherfucker had used Lisa- his sweet, loving Lisa- and then threw her to the curb like she was garbage. Not just her, but his own baby, too. What kind of sick fuck could look at Lisa, see how beautiful and kind she was, know that she was carrying his child- and not care?
"I kept confronting him about it. I couldn't drop it. Went to his house. His work. His parent's house. Tried to talk to him. He finally…he finally said he'd marry me. Apologized for everything. Said he was just scared and he wanted to be with me and the baby." She stopped there and Dean waited.
When she didn't immediately continue, Dean filled in the next part. "Jo, uh, told us…about the engagement. We didn't- I didn't know about the baby. Or the circumstances."
Lisa nodded weakly, swallowing as she swiped away more tears. "He-he changed his mind. A few weeks ago. Came to me with cash. Hundreds of dollars…. Oh, Dean-! He...he wanted me to abort it."
Dean stiffened and growled out a low string of curse words. "Give me his name and address." Dean rose to his feet, pacing in a rage, the words streaming from him almost continuously. "I'll kill him. Tell me the fucker's name, Lis. Sick fuck doesn't want his own kid. Fucking Asshole. I'll beat the shit out of him!"
"Dean, it's…" She shook her head sadly, her eyes gentle on his face. "It doesn't matter now. He was…he was just awful, Dean." She leaned forward, holding her head in her hands. Her muffled voice continued. "I don't want that man in my life. In my baby's life! He said if I didn't abort it then I-I had better not expect him to pay child support." She laughed hard into her hands."
Finally, she raised her head, brown eyes meeting his as she begged helplessly, "That's why I came back here. Dean, I-I don't want my baby to know it wasn't wanted. I want my baby to have a father. A good father..."
…((O_O))…
Castiel grabbed his coat and briefcase, tossing in a few important documents that he needed to look over tonight.
Not likely, he thought with a smile.
He had plans for tonight. Plans that involved pie and a certain green-eyed mechanic that had secret kink for tattoo licking.
So, big plans.
He hurried from his office, prepared to escape from the building and get home earlier than planned. He needed to make the pie. Then it would take time to bake. And to cool off.
The sudden image of licking warm pie of Dean's abs hit Castiel hard, his pants tightening painfully. He sucked in a deep breath, moving faster.
He had just shut the door to his office, and turned to sprint for the elevator, when he noticed Charlie still at her desk. The lamp beside her on the table was one of the only lights still on in the office.
He slowed to stand in front of her. "Charlie? It's seven o'clock- why haven't you left for the day?"
Charlie gave him a small smile, and shrugged nervously, "Uh, just, you know- wanted to get some more work knocked out. Alfie had a lot, so I figured I would help him. You know, that guy is like, freakishly efficient. Some of the work he has to do is heavy-duty stuff! I mean, he has his hands in everything! I don't know how an intern can manage this much high-level paperwork! And when I asked him about it, he was all like, 'It's a huge pleasure and honor to be entrusted with such important duties'. Just like that! Talk about grateful for having a job! But, I totally get it- I mean, keeping a job in this economy? Don't get me started on some of the places I've been stuck working-"
She would have continued her rambling, but Castiel cut in, "Charlie, is…is this about Ruby?"
Charlie wouldn't look up at him. She shifted some paperwork pointlessly, before answering quietly, "Ruby? Oh, no. Nope. What made you think of her? No, I am one-hundred percent not threatened by the fact that you have been assigned an extra secretary. I mean, come on. Why would I be? Gabriel has got, like, exclusive claim on her anyway. He's…uh, he's coming back to get her soon, isn't he?"
Castiel frowned at the question. Finally, he walked around her desk, borrowing Anna's chair and pulling it over to sit by Charlie.
"Charlie. I'm sorry about all of this confusion and secrecy." He searched for a safe way to explain all of this to her. "It's…well, it's very complicated and I'm not sure I understand it all, myself. But, I'm going to do my best to look out for you until it is all settled, okay?"
Charlie nodded, her eyes finally moving to meet Castiel's. She looked sad, and it nearly made Castiel start dumping everything that had happened over the last few days on her. He needed someone to confide in. It seemed like forever since he and Charlie had been sitting in these same spots, eating their lunches and brainstorming about how to arrange the best Think Tanks possible.
He decided to change the subject, instead. "How are you and Gilda doing? Beat up any more, ah, dwarfs lately?"
Charlie's face relaxed into a smile. "We're doing great. We actually had another date Saturday. Things are getting pretty intense, you know?" She winked suggestively.
Castiel almost asked her how intense things could possibly get in a virtual world, but Charlie suddenly piped up, "How about you and Dean? Word on the street is he practically has a toothbrush at your place already. Moving fast, huh?" She nudged him with her elbow as he blushed.
"People sure do like to talk around here, don't they?" He sputtered, trying not to show how happy he was.
"They don't have to talk very loudly, that's for sure! We all had front row seats to that super-sexy lover's brawl today. Don't tell me you weren't more than a little turned on that Dean punched your Ex? Please, please, please tell me it was because he was defending your honor!" When Castiel blushed harder she practically squealed with delight. "Oh my God! That is so fucking adorable! You better be seeing him tonight! You should totally offer to put an ice pack on his poor, bruised knuckles while chastising him" She made the word sound extremely lewd as she wiggled her eyebrows.
"Charlie, that's not how it works in real life. Dean should never have let Dick get to him. It was grossly inappropriate."
"Well, then you should do something 'grossly inappropriate' to Dean tonight. You know, fight fire with fire!" She erupted into more laughter at Castiel's disapproving frown, but he ended up cracking and they both laughed together, the sounds echoing down the dark hallways of the office.
After Castiel managed to get his chuckling back under control, he stood to say good-bye. "I need to get home soon, actually. I have a surprise planned for him and I need to get it ready. I'll see you tomorrow, Charlie."
"Yep, have a good night, boss! I expect you to come limping in here tomorrow morning, like you did on Monday!"
Castiel's jaw dropped and his face turned the shade of a tomato as he dove into the elevator.
Just before the elevator doors could safely shut, he heard Charlie taunting shout, "Yeah, that's right! We ALL noticed-!"
…((O_O))…
"Dean…? Dean, come on. You need to stop. You've had enough." Sam tried to pulled the bottle from Dean's hand, but he wouldn't let go.
Benny, Garth, Jo, and the rest of their tight group of friends stood a short distance from the table, casting worried glances between each other.
"Dean, hey? Listen, we need to talk this out, okay? Everything is going to be fine. Just talk to us." Sam gripped his brother's arm, trying to pull his attention from the scarred surface of the table where Dean had been staring for the last four hours.
He was past drunken stupor.
No one had warned the Road House staff about what had happened in the auto shop, so when Dean had appeared and began ordering drinks, they hadn't bothered to keep count.
He had drank a lot before they found him.
"Dean, honey?" Ellen sat down beside him, arm over his shoulder as she leaned in close. "This isn't how you handle things, okay? You need to stop drinking and sober up. We are all right here. We can talk about Lisa. And the baby."
Dean suddenly pitched forward on the table.
After a few stunned seconds, Ellen lifted his head and checked him. "He's out." She announced.
The rest of the group sighed as they shook their heads sadly.
Sam moved forward, lifting Dean's arm over his shoulder. Benny stepped forward and took the other. They half-carried, half-dragged Dean down the hall into the kitchen area. Jo and Ash came in behind them carrying several blankets, and together they set up a small padded area for Dean to sleep.
It was the same familiar drill as when Lisa had left...
When they emerged from the back, the group took their seats together.
Sam was the first to speak. "What the hell happened? I don't…I don't understand any of this." His voice was tired. It was late. They had been sitting with Dean trying to coax him into speaking and all they could get from him was, "'M gonna be a daddy."
Benny answered, "Some suit showed up at the garage this afternoon. He and Dean went out back to talk. While they were back there Lisa showed up. Very pregnant. Said she was told Dean would talk to her and that he wanted her to meet him there. Then Dean and the suit came back and…." Benny shrugged, "The suit ducked out with a shit-eating grin on his face. Dean and Lisa went into the break room. When Dean came out, he went straight to the Impala and left. Lisa wouldn't say what they talked about, but…uh, seems pretty clear. We…well, we thought Dean was heading home. You know, to- to think it all out. Didn't know he was coming here…"
Everyone listened closely. There was a deep silence from the group, a pocket of silence in the corner of the otherwise loud and crowded bar.
"She…she had no right to spring that on him so suddenly." Garth muttered. "He- he has Castiel now. That's not fair."
"Garth, she…she doesn't know. About Castiel. Or any of… that." Jo whispered.
"You knew about this, didn't you? That Lisa was back. And pregnant. You've kept in touch with her." The accusation from Sam cracked like a whip in the silence. Jo paled, her eyes watering as she looked down.
"Hey! This is not her fault, Sam." Ellen's voice was sharp, but not angry. "Now, if Lisa is carrying Dean's baby- which nobody seems to have confirmed yet- then those two got themselves into this. No one else. I know it's not easy to hear, but they will need to work this out themselves. We can't go around making these decisions for them."
The group nodded slowly. Sam murmured, "But, what about Castiel? Dean's been…so happy." He let the statement trail off as the rest of the group sat in silence, thinking.
…((O_O))…
Ellen: You two need to get the hell back to Lawrence
Mary: ?
Ellen: Lisa's back
Ellen: and pregnant.
...((O_O))...
It was 11:30pm.
Castiel sat on his couch, Lucifer sleeping in his lap, while he stared into the kitchen where a fresh apple pie sat cooling on the counter.
He checked his phone for the third time in the last five minutes.
Nothing.
He had already called Dean three times, the phone ringing before going to voicemail.
He had texted twice. No response.
Where are you Dean? Castiel thought in the silence of his apartment.
…((O_O))…
"He's gone!"
Ash burst from the back hallway into the almost empty bar. Several heads shot up from where they were talking tiredly.
Sam jumped to his feet. "What do you mean he's gone?!" He didn't wait for her answer as he raced back into the kitchen.
Sure enough, Dean's place on the floor was empty.
Shit-! Oh, shit!
Sam ran back out to the rest, shaking his head. To his left, Benny appeared yelling across the bar from the door. "The Impala's still there!"
"Fuck!" Sam swore, "Did he get a cab? Could he have gone to Lisa's?" He turned to Jo, who raised her hands helplessly. "I-I don't know, Sam. Maybe she told him where she was staying. It's possible."
Sam ran his hands through his long hair in frustration. "He's too fucking drunk to be wandering around after such big news. We need to find him before he does something stupid! Alright! Ash and Garth- check around here. Try outside, too. Maybe he's just passed out looking for the bathroom. Benny- check our place." He took his keys out, removing one and tossing it across to Benny. "Jo, you and me are going to Lisa's. I'll keep trying to to call him on his cell. Let's go!"
The group split up, darting into action.
…((O_O))…
Castiel awoke in his bed to the sound of his doorbell.
Without even thinking, he was on his feet hurrying to answer it. A quick check of the peep hole confirmed his suspicions.
Dean.
His hands fumbled as he quickly unlocked the door, throwing it open excitedly.
"Dean! I waited all night. What took you-"
His words were abruptly cut short by Dean surging forward, wrapping his arms around Castiel in a deep embrace. The strong smell of alcohol was all over him, and he swayed unsteadily in Castiel's arms.
"Dean? Are you- whoa! Careful." Dean stumbled dangerously as he suddenly began lurching in the direction of the bedroom, pulling Castiel along with him. "Dean, wait, okay. Just hold on. Let me shut the door." Castiel tried to shake loose from Dean's warm arms unsuccessfully, so he was forced to pull the heavy man along with him as he shut and locked his door. As he turned back and started moving toward the bedroom, Dean's hot mouth found his neck, latching on and nipping softly but insistently. Castiel laughed quietly, half-carrying Dean into his room. "Had a bit to drink this evening?"
Dean just hummed, smiling as they both flopped onto the soft mattress. Castiel shifted, pulling Dean's stiff limbs up onto the bed to make him comfortable.
After several minutes he finally had Dean arranged properly and his shoes and jacket removed. Dean rolled to him, pulling him down into another warm hug, nuzzling his neck and hair. "Mmmm…shmell goood…"
Castiel laughed. "Well, I'm glad you came over. I guess it's better late than never. Do you want to tell me why you finally showed up drunk at my apartment at," He looked at his watch, "Three o'clock in the morning?" He ran his hand through the soft fuzz of Dean's hair soothingly.
"Mmm. Came ta…ta- gotta breakup. 'M not gay, Cassss." Dean wiggled closer into Castiel's arms as the other man froze, breath hitching.
"…What? Dean-?" Castiel pulled away slowly, causing Dean to groan and try to to pull him back. "Dean, wh-what did you say?"
"Mmm, said… gotta breakup. 'M gonna be a daddy, Casss. Gonna marry Lisha and be…be a good dad-dy."
Castiel could feel his heart stuttering painfully in his chest, seeming loud in the silence of the room. He pushed himself out of Dean's arms, bringing his hands up to both sides of Dean's frowning face. "Dean, you're- you're drunk. You aren't making sense, okay? I- I'll get you some water…"
He moved to stand but Dean suddenly sat up, grabbing Castiel back into his arms with giddy chuckle. "M' gonna be a daddy, Casss. Lisa's- 's pregnant. Gonna get married…"
Castiel pushed against Dean roughly, trying to get some distance from him. He stood at the side of the bed, looking down in the shadowed darkness of the bedroom. He could see Dean's happy face blinking slowly up at him as he bobbed unsteadily.
"Dean…are you, are you serious? Is Lisa…-" He couldn't get the words out, choking as he tried.
This couldn't be happening. He was drunk. Confused. It wasn't possible….
The faint sound of buzzing filled the tense silence. Dean collapsed into the pillows with another groan, mumbling, "Stahp calling Sammieeee…."
Castiel moved forward carefully, avoiding getting pulled back onto the bed by Dean. He reached into Dean's back pocket, pulling out his vibrating phone. The caller ID said 'Sammy'.
Castiel stepped across the room and out, shutting the door behind him with a gentle click.
He tried speak, to answer, but his voice failed him.
'Dean? Dean are you there? Where the hell are you, man?!'
"…Sam." Castiel managed to croak.
'…Castiel?'
"Yeah. It's me." He heard Sam curse lowly on the other end of the line.
'Is…is Dean with you?'
"…Yeah."
'Shit. Did he- has he said…anything to you?'
"Yeah." Castiel replied weakly, leaning his back against the cool wall of the living room. The feeling of tiny pin-pricks pulling at his pant leg indicated Lucifer was at his feet. "Sam, he-he said that…Lisa…"
'I'm going to come pick him up, okay? Don't worry about anything. Just- just tell me where you live and I'll be there in a few minutes, alright? Castiel?'
"Is it true, Sam…?"
'Castiel...it's- I don't- They said…they said a guy in a suit came by the shop and…then Lisa. I-I can't talk about this with you, man. Just-'
"Is she really pregnant…with Dean's…?"
There was a silence on the line.
Castiel felt his stomach tightening painfully, his throat closing, preventing him from breathing. His legs gave out and he slid in a heap down the wall into the cold floor.
'Listen- tell me where you live, Cast-' Sam's voice cut out as Castiel hung up on him.
His shaking hand holding the phone dropped to his side. After a few moments it began buzzing again.
Castiel ignored it.
Lucifer climbed up his legs and chest, sniffing his mouth before leaning in to start pulling and chewing at his hair. Castiel didn't care.
After a few minutes on the cold, hardwood floor, Castiel rose, holding on to the wall for balance. His shaky legs carried him back into the bedroom. Dean's form was stretched out across the bed, his breathing deep and steady.
Castiel sat Dean's phone on top of his jacket, then picked up his own from the nightstand.
He stepped back out into the living room, staring at the phone. Finally, he dialed a number and waited.
Dick's muffled voice picked up almost immediately. '...Castiel? It's la-'
"What the fuck have you done, Dick?" His voice was low, and angry.
'…what I had to do.'
"You- you son of a-"
'Don't put all of this on me, Castiel!' Dick's voice was low, filled with unrepentant fury. 'He's the one that knocked her up. Not me. Did you know he proposed to her? Did he tell you about that? He asked her to marry him, Castiel- months ago! Before he even met you!' Castiel sat heavily onto the couch, eyes shutting as Dick's voice continued, 'SHe said No to HIM. He's the one who wanted to start a family and live happily ever after! Now he- well, he has his chance….'
Castiel didn't have anything to say. He let the knowledge wash over him in the empty living room.
'…Castiel, he-' Dick's voice was suddenly softer, almost sad. "He was never going to stay with you. I tried to tell yo-'
Castiel hung up.
…(p_q)...
He wasn't sure how much time passed, with him sitting stone-still on the couch. Lucifer was curled in his lap, breathing gently.
When he finally stood, it was to walk to the bedroom silently.
He opened the closet, stripping off his pajama pants and dressing in one of his new suits.
He pulled out a large suitcase from the bottom of the closet and packed it, careful not to make enough noise to wake Dean, who was sleeping soundly on the bed.
Castiel couldn't even look at the man. It hurt just being this close.
He stepped back out into the living room, suitcase rolling behind him, as the first signs of dawn began to show outside his large windows.
He scribbled a short note onto a piece of paper, then folded it and wrote Dean's name on the front. He taped it to the inside of the front door, where it couldn't be missed.
Then, he pulled out his cell phone and dialed Naomi's number. She picked up after several rings.
'Sir?' Her voice was tired, but still as efficient as ever.
"Have the private jet gassed up and ready to go immediately. Call Charlie and let her know to send all the paperwork and documents from my office to Head Quarters. I'm going straight over to the airport. You and Ruby meet me there as soon as you both can be ready." He bit out the orders with a cold efficiency.
'Oh…I- Yes, sir. I'll make the preparations to leave right away.'
"Do NOT notify Mr. Roman that we are leaving yet. I don't want him on our flight. He can damn-well fly commercial." Castiel ground the words out bitterly.
Lucifer was awake again, attempting to climb Castiel's leg as he moved over to the front door. Castiel bent looked down at him. Slowly, he reached down and picked the small cat up, bringing it in closely to his face. He held him close for several seconds, saying a dozen silent apologies to the animal in his head.
He finally continued, his voice tinged with sadness, "I'm also going to need you to make a call to the local Rescue, too. I'll discuss it with you more once we meet up."
'…Yes, sir.'
Castiel planted one final kiss on the top of the kitten's warm head, then sat him down gently on the floor. He muttered quietly to little creature, "I-I told you I couldn't keep you, buddy. You'll be fine though…. I'll make sure."
His eyes moved up unwillingly to stare at the closed bedroom door down the hall.
He stood there, in the doorway for several more moments while Naomi explained the preparations she was making.
Castiel wasn't listening. He just stared blankly at the door.
Maybe, if Dean came out right then…maybe he would stop him.
Tell him it was all a mistake.
Or a bad joke.
That he didn't really want to breakup.
That he loved him...
But, the door stayed closed.
Castiel spoke into the phone, "I want to be out of Lawrence, Kansas by within the hour, Naomi. Make it happen."
…(p_q)…
Castiel was just walking across the tarmac to board the small plane in the early light of morning when he noticed people's heads turning.
His gaze followed theirs, and he spotted Charlie's slim form, weighted down with a small rolling suitcase and and a heavy looking computer satchel, sprinting at full speed towards the plane. Several security guards were chasing closely after her, shouting loudly and yelling into radios.
Castiel quickly shouted orders for them to stop, signaling the security boss nearby to call the men off.
Charlie continued running toward him. She didn't stop until she was right in front of him. Her breath was ragged and she pitched forward gasping for air.
"Charlie…" Castiel said quietly, watching the young woman sadly.
"Boss-! I- please, please let me go with you!" She choked for a second and sucked in air desperately. "Please, boss, I-I really like working with you. You're, like, the coolest, most awesome boss I've ever had! Please don't leave me here. I can help! I don't know what's going on, but I promise, I can definitely help!" Her eyes met his, pleading.
"Charlie, things are going to be… difficult in San Diego. You have a life here. I…I can't ask you to give it all up."
She straightened, patting her laptop satchel, "But- but all I need is Gilda, boss! And I can take her with me anywhere." She whispered more desperately. "Please, boss…."
Castiel turned to glance at Naomi, who was watching the exchange a few feet away with Ruby.
"Sir, I'm sorry, but I just don't think that you need another-"
"I want her to come."
There was stunned silence as all eyes fell on Ruby, who had been almost alarmingly quiet and unsociable since Gabriel's escape.
Charlie blinked in surprise as Ruby gave her a quick, appraising look up and down. "She's tough. I could use her help when this mess explodes." She turned to Naomi, addressing her with a quick nod. "She can handle it, ma'am."
Naomi returned her nod solemnly, then turned to Charlie with a small smile. "Very well, Ms. Bradbury."
Charlie's face split into a wide grin as she eagerly followed them as they hurried to board the plane.
Only a few short minutes later, they were up and in the air.
Castiel stared out the small window as Lawrence fell away beneath them.
Somewhere down there, Dean was sleeping peacefully in Castiel's bed while he flew farther and farther away.
Incredible to think that one man, in one small city in Kansas seemed so much larger than life.
He had almost given everything up...
Almost let the fate of his father's entire company rest in one man's hands.
Castiel turned back to the important paperwork laid out in front of him.
Not anymore. Now he could focus on what was really important.
The company was on the verge of disaster. His family had all left. And thousands of people were depending on him.
It was time to step up, and leave Dean and Kansas, behind him.
I have...nothing. Group hug?
Next up: Good question.
How is Dean going to handle this sudden twist?
And Castiel?
And Lucifer, the poor little orphan that nobody wants?
Gabriel's en route (I hope), and Castiel is heading into the lion's den. Daddy-Novak says the bad guys know about Dean.
And Dick? Well, Dick's probably going to be stuck in economy seating on a jetliner, between a screaming baby and a fangirl who wont shut up the entire (delayed) flight about her homo-erotic fanfiction and all the wonderful reviews she's been getting from people. And that's just perfect...