Cheese and crackers it's been forever! Do you all forgive me for taking so damn long to update? You're all allowed to bother me about updates via tumblr and messages and such. It actually helps me write faster lol. But HOLY CRAP I GOT SO FREAKING BUSY! I won't go into details but hot damn what a summer this has been. Anyways, I hope you can all forgive me with the long overdue update. This chapter could actually have been about 10,000 or even 12,000 words longer but (!) I think this chapter just ends nicely. And this way the next chapter will be super action packed and omg you guys have no idea. The next chapter is just...ugh! I can't wait! So that being said...I will let you all get on with this one! Lots of steamy, and fluffy Melstiel goodies for you guys in the beginning. Be prepared, blushing may occur! Also the first little chunk of this chapter belongs to my bestie Stephannie! She wrote it and inspired the rest of the opening scene. Thank you so much for everything Steph! Love you :)
AND! The song that helped me write out the rest of the first part of this chapter is called, Thirty Lives (haha I'm so clever I come up with original chapter names) by Imagine Dragons. If you're interested, there is a video link on my tumblr page. Or you can look it up yourselves! I prefer the acoustic version, especially for this chapter.
Disclaimer: I do not own Supernatural...I only own Melody...
They lay facing each other, legs tangled. Castiel rested his head on his arm, playing with her hair thoughtlessly as he gazed at the remarkable woman beside him. She held his eyes with a look of such warmth, such happiness, that he simply couldn't believe how beautiful she was. Seeing her so relaxed and open made his chest strangely tight. He was lost to her, and he knew it. It was overwhelming, the knowledge of what it was like to love – for that was, he knew, the only thing that could feel like this – combined with the sensations and emotions that flooded his senses:
...He had made a choice of his own, and it had turned out to be a very good one. Free will, choice; something he had never truly dared before, even after he had fallen. Something that only Melody could have inspired him to dare attempt.
...The liberation of what he had just done, an act forbidden to his siblings in Heaven. He could not understand why, because sex was wonderful and he saw no reason for denying anyone the experience. The garrison would have been terribly, terribly jealous (and scandalized) if they knew, and the thought was somewhat thrilling.
...The warmth in his bones and muscles that made him not want to move. It was like he was almost floating, but it was nothing like flying. He couldn't figure out how to define it to himself, but it made him feel very, very happy.
...Finally having Melody be his—his!—after watching and wanting for so long. She looked so astoundingly beautiful as she gazed back at him, a gentle smile on her lips, the same warmth that he felt in his body there in her eyes.
…Knowing what she might become if he didn't protect her, hold her, be hers...
Castiel saw Melody's smile slip, and felt wetness on his cheek.
"Oh, Cas," she whispered, reaching up and touching his cheek ever so softly.
Castiel hadn't known that he could cry, and he didn't know when the tears had begun to blur his vision, but her touch broke something inside him that he couldn't name and he squeezed his eyes shut. She wiped away a tear with her thumb and he buried his face in her palm. Melody didn't know what to do. Emotions were not her area of expertise. Dean and Sam both preferred to be distracted when they were upset, so maybe that would work. She turned his face back to her and kissed him.
He returned the kiss with a nearly desperate force, crushing his mouth against hers. She rolled onto her back and pulled him with her, and without any coaching at all, Castiel braced himself on his forearms above her and moved his legs between hers.
As he moved over her, spread her legs open with his knees and his arms fell down on the mattress next to her face, Melody knew one thing. She was trapped. Destroyed. Finished. Because this angel—this man whose face was slowly lowering down to hers, whose eyes were so gentle and blue, whose hands had touched her in just that way—he was her everything now. Melody was ruined, and Castiel was to blame.
Her hands reached up and took hold of his face. He was still silently crying. Not sobbing or weeping, but his eyes were watering heavily. Castiel blinked. One lone tear fell and landed on her cheek. Melody smiled gently up at him ignoring the sudden wetness on her cheek. He was her everything now. She knew what these feelings must mean but…
No, she wouldn't say or think about that word. Because if she mentioned the "L" word it would ruin everything. Right now she was content to just be with him, to just feel him and be close and kiss him and hold him. Just…him.
Slowly, Castiel pushed himself into her, his eyes on her face. He watched her mouth fall open, heard her sigh softly and felt her back arch while her hips gently pushed up against his. Melody let her eyes flutter shut and moved her arms to wrap around Castiel's back. She felt his warm skin beneath her fingers and softly ran them up his spine until finally, she reached his neck. Melody dug her fingers into his hair and started to move her hips. Slowly.
And by all things holy Castiel had never felt something so pure. He reached down, grabbed hold of her left thigh and hoisted it higher trying so desperately to keep his pace even and slow. His body was screaming to go faster. But this pleasure. This slow building heat between them was so intoxicating—so right—that he forced himself to savor every second of it. Castiel felt her back arch even higher and bent his head down placing a long, lingering kiss to her breast.
"O—oh Cas…" she gasped, throwing her head back. He didn't seem to realize that lifting her leg would actually help him get deeper but god damn did it feel good. No. It didn't just feel good. No it felt…fucking wonderful. And his pace. His slow, careful and gentle pace was perfect to the point of it being near torturous. Her voice stirred something in him. When he heard his nickname—the name that she'd called him by first—something awoke in him. Castiel growled, a low, guttural noise, and pushed against her a bit harder and faster. Melody let out a sudden gasp and, "Ah!" Her nails fell to his back and started to dig into his skin.
"Mmm…" Castiel growled again, lifting his head up and dipping it back down to gently bite her neck. Melody let out a loud moan. Where was this coming from? This was their third time. The first two had been slow and sweet. And Cas had let her fall asleep for a few hours—Melody hadn't been particularly happy about that. She'd wanted to stay up all night but Cas had insisted she get some amount of sleep. She'd woken up at around five in the morning, and they'd been laying in the bed for about half an hour. When Cas initiated this third time, Melody expected him to stick with the slow and gentle pace. And she had no complaints. But now he was starting to get…faster. He was starting to push harder.
Castiel lifted his head from her neck, the hand he'd been using to hold himself up started to fist against the bed sheets. Melody gasped again before grabbing hold of his head and pulling his face down towards hers. She crushed their lips together messily before releasing her hold and throwing her head back. "Cas-!" She half screamed, her hands grabbing hold of his shoulders for stability.
Fueled by her response to him and the knowledge that she was still in very real danger—
He stopped.
Melody froze. Her face falling from pleasure to confusion. He'd been doing so well. Beyond well—better than she'd ever had it before. "Why…why did you stop?" She panted still feeling tiny flutters of unreleased tension jump up and down her body. And when he looked at her again, with his sad eyes and his frowning mouth, she almost cried herself.
"I don't ever want to lose you." He finally confessed, dropping her leg and putting a gentle hand against her cheek. Melody saw his eyes start to water like before and ignored her immediate instinct to cover up the emotion. That was what she and her brothers did because it was easier and safer. They wouldn't have to deal with the emotional baggage until they absolutely could not avoid it. But she was beginning to realize that she couldn't shove aside her emotions when it came to Castiel. Not only because she felt too strongly about him, but also because he was the same.
She raised her hands to cup his face, stroking her thumbs against his cheeks. "You'll never lose me. And if that happens—I will always come back to you." Melody moved her hands from his face to his neck and gently pulled him down. They touched foreheads, each breathing in deeply before Melody turned her face upwards and kissed him again. Her hands went from his neck to his collar bone where she gently stroked her fingertips over the skin. She felt Cas start to gently lay on her again and took that as a sign that he was ready to continue. Melody started to rock her hips against his until she felt him match her pace.
Castiel moaned against her mouth before resuming his fast and passion fueled rhythm. He let go of their kiss and ducked his head down to her shoulder. Melody felt his hot breath on her skin, snaked her arms around his back and arched her spine trying so desperately to get just that much closer to him. It didn't take long before she started to feel the tremors of her orgasm. It surprised her at first. She let out a sudden yelp and, "Oh!" before throwing her head back into the pillow. Then she felt the second and third little tremors. And then the next and the next until they all started to meet and crash together so quickly and so strongly that Melody felt she might just implode from the sensations.
He started to get even faster now that he could hear and feel her getting closer and closer. "Melody—!" Castiel would have been knocked back from the force of his climax had it not been for her tight grip. He dug his head down against her shoulder and bit down hard on her collar bone. He heard Melody scream from the pleasure and felt her muscles contract. She tried to speak but her words failed as she soon fell apart. Melody was soaring by this point and didn't want to come down. And what should have lasted an eternity, only lasted a few seconds.
When they'd both come down from their climax—each trembling and covered with sweat—they could hardly move, and their breathing was labored at best. Castiel didn't dare pull away from her just yet. Not wanting to feel the absence of her presence, he slowly lifted his head from her shoulder leaving a trail of soft kisses up her neck. Melody forced her arms to move from his back to his arms. She gently trailed her fingers against his skin until finally meeting his eyes with hers again. They watched each other for a long moment, neither saying a word and both afraid to speak first.
It was Melody who took the first leap. She shyly grinned up at him and put her fingers against his jaw. "Hi." She half-whispered to him, the silence of the room was near deafening now that they'd finished.
Castiel's eyes creased for a brief second before he slowly repeated her, "…hi." This only caused Melody to fall into a fit of stupid schoolgirl giggles. She shook under him, her arms wrapping around his neck before she pulled him down towards her and hugged his body against hers. Castiel blinked, "I don't…understand…"
Melody laughed again—a musical, happy sound that made Castiel's stomach flutter. She let him lift his head back up before smiling widely at him. "I just…" she had to pause because she'd almost said it. Yes, that word. The one word she was absolutely terrified of. Sure she said those three words to her brothers but that was completely different. And most of the time she was doing it to just annoy them. But now with Cas? It would change everything if she said those three words. Because those three words would most certainly send him running—or at least send her running—and she did not want that. Melody sighed and smiled again, covering up her little hesitation, "You're just…" great now she couldn't find the words. How could she describe what she felt to him? She thought he was absolutely perfect, and far beyond what she ever deserved especially after the kind of life she'd led. She saw him as more than just an angel. She saw him right now at this moment as a man—a living creature who she could never see herself being without. But of course her brain and mouth weren't cooperating at the moment and instead of words, Melody decided to go with actions instead. She grinned before pulling his face down to hers and kissing his cheeks, followed by the center of his forehead, the tip of his nose, the corners of her mouth.
Castiel seemed to finally understand what she was trying to say, but thankfully didn't acknowledge it. Because he felt that too. Love. He wasn't afraid to think it. In fact he'd prefer she say it. That had to be what all of these emotions meant. How even when she'd been against him and angered him in the past, he still never wanted to leave her side. How he always thought of her—even when he wasn't. Castiel gently lowered his face down until their foreheads were touching. He breathed in her bittersweet scent before saying what he felt,
"You're everything I never knew I wanted."
The bright morning light greeted them as they stepped out of the now messy motel room. Melody had showered and somehow managed to make herself look somewhat decent and not like she'd just had an all-night sex fest. Even though she had and she would gladly shout it from the rooftops. As she led the way to the Impala she felt herself beginning to feel sore and raw. Normally she'd ignore the pain or even get a little irritated that whoever she'd slept with would be dumb enough to be so rough with her. But right now walking through the near empty parking lot towards the Impala and knowing that the man who'd done this to her was walking next to her and just as happy as she was…yeah, she'd gladly take this pain every day if it meant it was from him.
They reached the Impala and Melody turned around to face the man in question. Or angel. It really depended on how you looked at it. She'd prefer to think of him as a man though. But then again, she couldn't deny that he didn't at least have a man's body—not after last night.
Melody smirked to herself, crossing her arms loosely before leaning against the black car. Castiel stood just in front of her, a small, barely there smile on his lips. "When will I see you again?" He asked, completely ignoring Dean's previous rules of personal space. Melody of course had no objections and gladly let him invade her little bubble of space.
She playfully chewed her lip and pretended to think extra hard on her answer. "Don't really know." She stood up from the car, purposefully knocking her pelvis against his hips before she spread her hands out over his chest. "Why don't you wait for me to call you…?" She asked innocently while she trailed her fingers down his shirt covered stomach.
Castiel had to fist his hands together to prevent himself from taking her all over again in this very spot. But he feared Sam or Dean would be out any minute and didn't want Melody to be seen like that. However when her fingers started to travel below his belt…
He couldn't stop himself from forcing his mouth onto hers again. Melody made a satisfied moan before grabbing hold of his coat collar and pulling him closer to her. She felt his arms wrap around her back and made a small yelp of surprise when he yanked her body to crush against his.
What they didn't see was the door of room 103 open and out walk one Sam Winchester. Nor did they see Sam take barely two steps before he froze mid-step. And of course they didn't see his gaping mouth, or his saucer-wide eyes. Because this just couldn't be possible. Melody, his big sister who didn't trust anyone and especially didn't trust angels, was full on making out with Castiel. Castiel! The timid and constantly confused angel who didn't exactly have Melody's full attention. But wait…did he? That's what this must mean though right? Sam shook his head, blinked hard and rubbed his eyes. Nope. They were still standing by the Impala. Making out.
And instead of having a typical brotherly reaction of, "get away from my sister" or anything along those lines, Sam Winchester could only muster up one true response.
"…huh…"
By the time Melody and Cas had broken apart Sam was already half way across the parking lot. Honestly he was sort of happy for them. Melody especially. The youngest Winchester knew about Melody's previous experience with the opposite sex and didn't exactly like it. She was just like Dean when it came to that. Both not really willing to commit to someone and both would rather have one night of meaningless sex than a lifetime of hardship that paid off. Sam would never understand it. However, as Sam watched his sister and the angel pull away from each other, he saw a completely different look on Melody's face. She actually looked—dare he say it—happy. Not a normal "ha ha my brothers are awesome" kind of happy. No. This was "I'm a love-sick teenager" type happy.
Now Sam was at the car, and Cas still hadn't completely let go of Melody. The angel's hands were still resting on her hips, and Melody's stupid smile never left her face. At a different time, Sam would have gladly given them space. But, Dean was about to come outside and Sam had a tiny suspicion that Melody wouldn't really enjoy the eldest seeing her with the angel. "Uh…" Sam awkwardly cleared his throat, trying to be casual but failing otherwise. Despite how happy he was for them, he still couldn't help it. This was his big sister he was standing in front of after all. Any time she even looked at another man he felt like he needed to flee the premises.
Melody jumped—reacting on instinct and pushing Cas behind her as if to protect him from the sudden, unknown threat that had appeared next to them. However, by the time she got Castiel safely behind her…
"Sam!" She exclaimed, her eyes going wide when she realized that he'd just seen everything. "Uh…shit," she mumbled, taking several quick steps away from the Impala and thoroughly distancing herself from the angel. But her attempt at trying to cover up their make out session didn't exactly work. Not only because Sam had seen it all, but also because Castiel didn't quite understand what Melody was trying to do. And Castiel's longing, puppy dog eyes didn't really help either. Melody shoved her hand into her hair and tossed it all over to one side. This was normally a casual habit that Sam had witnessed Melody doing on car trips and such. But this time, her voice was shaking with unchecked nerves and her cheeks were such a deep shade of pink they almost looked scarlet. "Morning S-Sammy," she let out an awkwardly loud laugh, "you're…you woke up early—I mean," she cleared her throat and waved a hand in front of her face (a trembling, sweating hand) before shoving them into her jacket pockets, "I mean you're up earlier than I thought…you would…be…"
Her last gulp nearly made him fall over with laughter. He'd never seen Melody act this way. She had always been the cool and collected one. Sure she'd get scared or angry and maybe even let her emotions get the better of her. But never in his wildest dreams would Sam Winchester expect to see her turn into a bumbling idiot with no chance of covering up what she'd been caught doing. Normally, whenever Sam or even if Dean caught her with another guy, she would play it off like nothing had happened. The most she would do was blush—but even then it would be so faint the brothers would question if they'd seen it. So what was making this one so different?
But all that aside, Sam couldn't get over the fact that he'd just seen Melody and Castiel. And he couldn't understand why his sister was so nervous. Now that the awkward part was over, brother and sister stood face to face silently, while Castiel watched the exchange from behind. It took him a while to come up with what he wanted to say. Honestly Sam had no words. And thinking that staring at his sister wouldn't exactly help, he just decided to open his mouth and see what would happen. Slowly, he raised a finger and pointed at both Cas and then Mel. "So…" but his words failed again. He dropped his finger and gave them a frown. Sam thought about his next question and tried a second time, "Are you…" Nope. Not the right way to ask. And then he realized something. They'd been standing next to the Impala. Melody had claimed she was going to sleep in the Impala last night…
Oh god…
Sam's frown deepened. His eyes widened slightly as he pointed at the Impala, particularly the back seat of the Impala. "Did you—?"
That stirred up his sister. "What?! No!" Melody shook her head and pointed her own finger at the back seat accusingly. "Do you know what Dean has done back there?! I've had to wipe down that seat so many times I'm surprised my fingers didn't start bleeding!"
Sam held up his hands towards her, "I was just asking Mel." He heard her grumble before she crossed her arms over her chest. He let his hands fall back to his sides and watched her and Cas for a bit longer. The poor guy looked so lost. Cas looked like he wanted to simultaneously run to Melody and explain everything. But he was holding back. Probably because he knew that Melody wouldn't be too happy if he tried. She normally liked to handle things on her own and didn't take too kindly to help—especially if she hadn't asked for it. Sam let out a long breath through his nose, rubbed a hand over his jaw and chin and finally let it rest on the back of his neck. "So did you both…do—"
"Don't." Melody ordered, now using her I'm slightly older than you so I'm the boss voice while she pointed a sharp finger at him. "Just don't."
The youngest Winchester's answer was a quick nod. That was all the answer he needed anyway. Yup. They'd definitely done it. His big sister and Castiel had slept together. They had…
Not wanting to think about that, Sam quickly nodded his head, mumbled a quick, "yeah" and got into the Impala. He sat there for a half second before remembering that Dean was about to come outside. Sam fumbled and rolled down the car window as fast as he could before sticking his head out. Melody had already turned around to look at Cas again, and the angel looked like he was in mid-step towards her. Sam inwardly grimaced. He felt bad for interrupting them. Twice now. "By the way Mel uh…Dean is going to be out here in a few."
Melody didn't even turn around but was otherwise grateful for the warning. "Thanks Sammy." She said and listened to the passenger side window squeak as Sam rolled it back up. She let out a breath of relief. That hadn't been too horrible. Well, other than the fact that it was extremely awkward and Sam had thought that she and Cas had had sex inside the Impala. She reached up and began to scratch her head before opening her eyes again. And for a moment, she completely forgot about the terribly awkward exchange with her little brother. Because Castiel was still there. He hadn't run away or disappeared. He'd stayed by her side that entire time.
She felt a flutter of emotions in her stomach before letting her mouth form into a small smile. Castiel must have took that as an invitation and quickly rejoined her. His hands fell to her shoulders where he gently squeezed before ducking his head down and resting his forehead against hers. "Are you alright?" He asked, watching her eyes fall shut and hearing her breath in deeply through her nose.
Melody nodded, "Yeah I'm okay. That was just…really embarrassing." She laughed off her nerves—what little it could help—before opening her eyes again to find Castiel watching her carefully. Now Melody's half smile turned into a real one and she let out a breathy sigh. Ignoring that part of her brain that wanted to smack her stupid grin off her face, she quickly upturned her face and gave Cas a quick, chaste kiss. She barely pulled away before she shoved her lips onto his again.
Castiel didn't seem to protest, until he remembered what Sam had said. Reluctantly, he pulled away from her, resting his hand against her neck while he stroked his thumb over her cheek. "When will I see you again?" He asked for the second time. Melody couldn't help but giggle. Either he was being a cute, smartass, or he really did want to know the answer to that question.
"Tell you what." Melody leaned back so she could get a good look at him. She playfully started to walk her fingers up his chest. "We'll be heading to Bobby's place. It will definitely take a while to get there—but…" her fingers stopped at his chin where she gently and lovingly touched his stubble, "as soon as we get there, I'll call you."
He was about to protest. There was no option for him when it came to waiting to see her again. He didn't want to be separated from her for a long period of time. Not only because he was so drawn to her and so…in love with her. But also because he was afraid that if he left her side for even a moment, Lucifer would take hold of her. But he knew why they needed to do this. Dean. He was the only reason. And as much as Cas wanted to tell Dean and even get the oldest Winchester's approval and blessing, the angel knew that Melody was not keen on that idea. At least for the time being.
But he didn't want to leave her. Maybe one last kiss. Just one more and he would be alright. All he wanted was to feel her lips on his own again. To show her how much he loved her.
Time slowed down when he looked at her this way. When he really just stopped and watched her. She was beyond words. Castiel couldn't explain it and he barely understood it but somehow, this human girl had captured him. From the moment he first laid eyes on her all those months ago in that abandoned barn. He'd never understood those feelings back then. And if he had, maybe things would have been different. But he didn't want them to be different. Because despite everything—the apocalypse starting, his brothers and sisters not fighting for the Heaven he believed in, Lucifer rising and even the terrible revelations of Melody's possible future—despite all of that, he wouldn't change any of it.
Grabbing hold of her hair and waist, Castiel shoved his mouth onto hers. He wasn't gentle but he wasn't rough. To Melody he was just full of...passion. She sighed and moaned, opening her mouth and feeling his tongue lap over her lips. Her hands grabbed his coat collar, fisting the fabric together. If his arm hadn't been around her waist she'd have surely collapsed on the spot. Her knees wobbled and good God her heart. And his mouth—oh his mouth. Everywhere their skin met felt like he'd started a fire. Every time he shifted just that much, she wanted to melt into a puddle. By the time he finally pulled away, she had to literally lean against the Impala and squeeze her legs together to try and control her body. Her hands were trembling. Her knees were shaking and felt weak. Her stomach and even her lower regions were fluttering and tingling nonstop. Melody let out a shaky breath before putting a hand over her mouth. She could still feel that fiery kiss. Trying to control the urge to grab hold of Cas and finish what he'd started (AKA fuck his brains out right there in the parking lot), Melody stood back up keeping a steadying hand against the car.
The angel's eyes creased, his hands reaching out to stable her. "Melody forgive me. Did I hurt you? Where are you injured?"
Melody laughed. A shaking and unsteady laugh, but a laugh nonetheless. She pressed a trembling hand against his chest, feeling a rapidly beating heart beneath her fingers and the fabric of his shirt. "Whatever you just did…" she felt her cheeks burn and knew the blush had traveled down her neck but ignored it.
"What did I do? I am sorry Melody." He was fumbling and over-apologetic. Castiel gingerly held her arms, barely touching her like he had before.
"No, no." Melody chuckled, "That was…" she searched for the correct words and landed on, "…fucking perfect."
Now the angel looked really confused. "I don't understand. I—" He suddenly stopped. His mouth fell shut as he looked around the parking lot until finally his eyes landed on a spot over Melody's shoulder. Castiel's mouth fell to a thin line and his jaw set. "It seems your brother wishes to speak with me."
"My brother? What are you—" Before she could finish, Castiel was gone. She stared at the spot where he'd just been. Sam didn't want to talk to Cas. So that meant that Dean did. Melody felt her heart sink. Oh god. Oh no. Did Dean see them after all? Did he glance out the window and see them? Jesus did he…hear them? They'd been kind of—well maybe a bit—loud last night. But their room had been at least three doors down from where her brothers had stayed. Melody remembered because she'd considered renting out that same one the previous night before she called Castiel and the whole…sex thing happened. But it was more than just sex. It was connecting. It was showing each other everything. Letting him know how much she cared about him through her actions. Through the way she touched him. The way he touched her. It was…making love.
Because she was…no. But…she had to be…it couldn't be—
"Mels!"
Oh shit! Melody started to panic. That was Dean. And Dean was yelling. Shit, shit, shit! Melody steadied herself against the car, took in three long, deep breaths and braced herself for the inevitable storm of the curses and shouting. Oh god Dean is going to hate this. Melody knew he would. He already couldn't handle the idea of Sam falling for a werewolf years ago, why the hell would an angel be any different?
Alright, Melody decided, if he asks then I'll tell him it was just sex. Nothing more. Cas will understand and I can explain everything to Castiel later.
Had she been standing in the same spot for a long time? Probably. Her knees were sore from being locked into place and were starting to go numb. She couldn't have been standing there for more than five minutes at most. Slowly, she turned around to face him, trying to hide her panic. When she did come full circle, she found Dean standing half way out of his motel room, waving an arm at her. "Hey bring Sammy in here!" He shouted, "I got something to tell you!"
Sam was already getting out of the car while Dean went back inside leaving his door open. The youngest looked back at his sister and saw her eyes go wide. "You alright?" Sam asked gently closing the car door. Melody just nodded her head before shoving her hands into her jacket pockets.
"I need a cigarette…" she mumbled before chewing her lip and leading the way to the room. Sam of course gave her an eye roll. He hated it when she said stuff like that. He couldn't remember how many times exactly, but there'd been plenty of incidents where he'd caught his sister smoking or trying to buy a pack. And unlike Dean, he'd tried to gently ask her to stop. He knew that giving her a huge lecture about it would only make her smoke more—if only to spite him. And she had quit for a while. Must be all the stress from the job, Sam thought watching his sister in front of him.
They entered the motel room, only to find Dean Winchester pacing back and forth in the room while Castiel stood in the middle of said room. Melody sent Sam a worried and silent look that said, help me. Sam knew what she must think this is. But it couldn't be. Cas wouldn't just say something to Dean. Melody seemed pretty sure that she didn't want anyone to find out about her and the angel. She'd been more than defensive when he'd stumbled across her and the angel, it wouldn't surprise Sam if Melody would rather Dean never find out.
Sam tried to let her know that he was here for her—even if he was sure that whatever she thought was going to happen wasn't going to happen. But he decided to support her, and placed a comforting hand on her shoulder. It seemed to calm her down somewhat knowing that she at least had one brother's support. Melody nodded at him and set her mouth into a thin line before turning to face Dean. "So…" she swallowed the lump in her throat and tried to sound more casual, "…what's—what's all this? Why is Cas here?"
Dean stopped his pacing, ran a hand over his jaw and chin, "He's here because I called him—well sort of." He got a pair of confused looks from Melody and Sam. "You know what I mean. I prayed to him."
Sam shut the door behind him and came further into the room, "Okay so you called him here. Why?"
The oldest didn't want to tell Sam the whole truth. At least not while Melody was in the same room. She couldn't know that he had Cas go to 2014. But holy shit—! He needed to tell Sam everything and fast. Melody turns into a…pawn of Lucifer? His prisoner? And she somehow gets brainwashed and changes and Lucifer makes her a…God Dean couldn't even begin to comprehend it. Castiel said she'd basically become a succubus. A scary, seducing, crazy eyed bitch succubus. And she was stronger? Her powers were stronger? And…oh jeez this one was the kicker. She'd become addicted to demon blood. But not just any run-of-the-mill type demon. No. She was addicted to Lucifer's blood. And she and Lucifer were…
Jesus Christ on a cracker. Dean pinched the bridge of his nose. He'd not believed it when he was in 2014. He thought maybe Lucifer had just been toying with him. Trying to get into his head. But what Castiel had described it sounded like it had been true. Dean was freaking out. He didn't know what to do anymore. Cas mentioned that Lucifer's influence must have something to do with the way she'd been acting towards him. Dean sighed setting it aside for now. He could get Sam alone and explain everything, he could even call Cas and have Cas explain everything. But…Dean realized something. In 2014 Lucy had control of Sam. Oh god no. No, no, no! How could Dean tell that to Sam?
"Oh yeah by the way in the future, you say yes to Lucifer and then he uses your body and brainwashes Melody—your sister—and then he starts to…"
No. Dean would not—could not let Sam live with that. And he couldn't let Melody know either. It was then that Dean decided to keep that small piece of information to himself. At most, he'll tell his siblings about the brainwashing/controlling part. Not the…other part.
"Dean." He looked up, saw Melody standing by the door, her arms crossed over her chest while she rested all her weight on one leg. She looked like she was growing impatient, and the way she'd said his name had been more than enough evidence to that fact. Melody shrugged her shoulders, "You mind explaining to us why you're acting like this?"
Shit. He couldn't tell them now. He wasn't ready. Hell, Dean didn't even know where to begin. So instead of dealing with the whole 2014 fiasco, he shrugged off his behavior. "I'm fine. Just waiting on wings over there to finish." He jerked a thumb in Castiel's direction. "I called him here to help us track down the Colt and the demon who has it. Crowley."
"I found him." Castiel finally said. His face no longer blank. The angel blinked and was a little surprised to find Sam and Melody standing in the room. But he wasn't going to complain. At least he was getting to see her again.
Melody couldn't stop herself. She felt her eyes drawn to him. Hell her whole body was drawn to him. But she couldn't just run over into his arms—as much as she wanted to. So instead, she played it cool and acted like it was any other morning. "You've been searching this whole time?" She asked slowly walking towards Cas but keeping her arms crossed. She stopped several steps in front of him, hoping that she looked normal and not like she was trying to get closer to him. Because Heaven help her she so desperately needed to be.
Castiel nodded, "I looked in every major city first and then started looking at the most luxurious of homes." He literally had to squeeze his hands into fists and dig his nails into his skin. Because she was so close. He only had to take two or three steps and they'd be right in front of each other and he'd be able to touch her again. Melody nodded, made a sort of approving sound before turning to her brothers. And the way she turned. The way she started idly messing with a piece of her hair and the way she angled her body as if to show him her shapely and strong legs. Why did she have to wear such tight pants? Castiel felt his own pants grown tight. And his collar was getting very uncomfortable.
Sam Winchester of course knew what his sister was doing. He'd seen her pull that same little pose with other guys all the time. On cases when they needed to get somewhere, or at bars when she was bored. "Uh well Cas," Sam cleared his throat loudly and was beyond grateful when the angel looked away from his sister's ass. "Did you…did you find him?"
"Oh, yes of course." Castiel answered. He saw Melody chew her lip and fight a smile. So…she'd done that on purpose? More teasing then? But she was acting completely normal—at least trying to act normal. Taking her behavior as his cue, Castiel decided to copy her. Act casual and not like he wanted every inch of her at that moment. He started pacing and moved away from Melody while he answered Sam. "He is currently in South Dakota in a sizable home near the mountains."
"Wait what?" Dean asked, completely oblivious to the looks Cas and Melody were sending each other. Sam was beyond grateful for Dean's ignorance. Maybe it was because Dean had always had a hard time seeing their sister as a flirtatious person, or maybe Dean really was that dumb. Either way, Sam was grateful. However, that didn't mean he wanted Cas and Mel to keep staring at each other like that. Because if Dean wasn't so focused on finding Crowley, he'd spot it immediately. "He's in South Dakota? The same state Bobby lives in?"
It took Cas a mere half-second to respond. But it was a half-second spent sending Melody dangerously heated looks. "That is correct. I can take you there now if you'd like."
Dean paced a bit, rested his hands on his hips and sighed. "No…no this is almost like Crowley wants to be found. He's not hiding or anything?"
"Not that I could see." Castiel answered. Sam wanted to go over and knock some sense into those two. They were playing a dangerous game right now. He tried to get Melody's attention as subtly as possible, but she only had eyes for the angel. Sam almost wanted to gag. He'd never seen Melody act this…lovesick before. "However he has covered his mansion in angel wards. I cannot enter the home."
"So we go in ourselves." Dean replied turning to face Cas again. This time, Melody thankfully dropped her eyes from the angel.
"We can't get in by ourselves Dean." She said glancing his way. "If this guy has the Colt, I guarantee he won't make it easy for us. And I bet you he knows exactly what we look like. As soon as he sees us, he'll be gone."
For the first time in several months Dean found himself agreeing with his sister. And she wasn't yelling at him or being too snippy. It was almost like normal again. He nodded his head, "Yeah you're right." Dean sighed, running a hand over his jaw. "Well, guess we're gonna need some help on this."
"Does this scenario feel familiar at all? Me being the perfect choice for the bait and you not letting me act as said bait? Yeah, pretty sure this exact thing has happened before and almost ended badly last time too."
Dean Winchester just rolled his eyes. "Yeah Jo is the bait again. But it's like you said Mels, Crowley knows our faces. As soon as he sees us he'll start running." He peeked out from his hiding spot in the bushes. Himself, his brother, sister, Ellen, Bobby and Castiel were all hiding across the street from Crowley's lavish home. They needed a way to get into the large gate that led up the drive way to the mansion's entrance. What better way than a poor, lonely, pretty girl who needed to use a phone? No one could resist that. And of course like Dean had expected, Melody insisted she be the bait. She really did care about Jo in the end and didn't want to see her friend in any unnecessary danger. But this is how it had to be, and as much as even Dean didn't like it, they needed to get past that gate.
He looked back and saw the gate slowly opening. "Alright, Cas if you would?" The angel nodded, placing his hands on both Melody's and Sam's shoulders. Dean looked back at Ellen and Bobby. "You two wait here and guard the front entrance. If we need you you'll know."
Ellen and Bobby reluctantly nodded. They were supposed to watch the exits, but they'd rather be in the fight. Dean understood that, but he also understood that this Crowley character seemed a bit jumpy. If not a little cautious. And six hunters is a lot more intimidating than just three. Dean hoped this Crowley guy wouldn't just up and run if only three hunters showed up. Dean put his hand on Castiel's shoulder, gave the angel a 'go ahead' nod and waited. All four disappeared and then reappeared in the bushes just by the gate. They were all behind the two guards now, and Jo was hesitantly talking to them.
Melody wrinkled her nose before she whispered, "Demons. Both of them." She reached into her jacket and pulled out her new favorite weapon. The angel blade that once belonged to a lieutenant of Zachariah's that now belonged to her. She saw Sam slowly slip out the demon knife as well and silently stood up with him.
"You know what?" Jo hesitated for a moment, pretending like she didn't see Sam or Melody creeping up behind the guards. "I…I think I should wait by my car." She turned and pretended like she was going to leave, trying to distract the guards even further.
The guard closest to her grabbed hold of her shoulder, "We said, get your ass in here." He growled and when Jo glanced back, she saw his eyes had gone full black. Demons, just like Melody had said.
"Eugh," Melody scrunched up her nose as they got closer to the mansion, "this place is definitely it. There are demons all over."
Jo still didn't really understand how Melody could do that but she didn't question it. Especially now. Reacting on instinct, Jo turned and shoved her arm upwards, knocking away the demon's cold and clammy hand from her shoulder. He was startled for a moment at her sudden movement but he barely took a step back before Jo threw her fist down into his shoulder where she buried her father's iron knife. It wouldn't kill the bastard but it would certainly hurt.
That's when Melody and Sam came in. Sam attacked the demon farthest from Jo, stabbing the demon knife clean through the guard's neck and letting the body fall to the ground. Melody ran up to the demon that had grabbed Jo. He was bent over from the pain of Jo's knife in his shoulder. Melody kicked her booted foot upwards into the demon's chin before grabbing hold of the back of his head and stabbing him through the chest with her blade.
"Nice work Jo." Dean commented, joining his siblings and watching the bodies fall to the ground. He hefted a bag off his shoulder, handing it to Jo. Castiel bypassed them and went to Melody.
"Thanks. Okay, shall we?" Melody heard Jo say before the blonde led her brothers towards the side of the mansion. Melody bent down and wiped her blade off using one of the demon's jackets. She stood back up and started to follow her brothers and Jo feeling Castiel fall in step with her. She glanced over at him and felt her heart flutter a bit. After the motel, Dean had the angel teleport them all to Bobby's place where they called Jo and Ellen and formed a plan to sneak into Crowley's mansion. Because of all the planning, Melody and Cas hadn't had any real private time. And it was killing Melody. All she needed was about ten minutes—preferably twenty—alone with the angel. That's it. But no. Every time she tried, Sam would give her that 'I'm disappointed in you' look.
"I do not like this." Castiel commented, his own blade falling into his hand. Melody had to agree but…
"This is the best way Cas." She said glancing around and making sure no other demons had spotted them. "Someone needs to watch Jo's ass while me, Sam and Dean go inside. Bobby and Ellen are already watching the front and I don't want Jo watching the back alone."
By this time Jo found the main breaker for the mansions power and began working on it. Sam and Dean stood close to her for protection. Thankfully, Cas and Mel were far enough away that they could talk privately but they still looked like they were keeping an eye out. Melody turned her back on her brothers, pretending to search for any signs of demons. Even though she could easily sense if they were getting closer or not.
"I still do not like this. Crowley is powerful and has many demons here. You said so yourself." Castiel pointed out, glancing around the yard.
"Cas there are at least three more demons in that mansion—including Crowley." She shook her head, "I know there were more when we first got here but…it's almost like they were sent away."
The angel frowned, "That does not help." He glanced at Sam and Dean. Both were bent down trying to give Jo more light. He took his chance and turned to face Melody. "And that does not mean that I will cease to be concerned. Nor will I like this plan of yours."
Melody had to smile. She turned her head to face him, looking up into his eyes. "I don't like it either. But it's the only way. Crowley warded the place. There's no way for you to get in. And like I said, I don't want Jo to be left alone. Any number of demons could come crawling back here at any moment." She saw Cas frown and watched him turn away from her.
"I still don't like it." He mumbled, glancing down at his blade. He heard Melody quietly laugh before he felt her fingers graze over his.
"Hey I'll be alright. Trust me Cas I've been in worse situations."
The angel wanted to protest further. But when he started to speak, Jo had succeeded in taking out the power to Crowley's home. She turned back and waved Melody and Cas over. They started walking over to join Jo and Melody's brothers again. Castiel felt Melody's hand against his arm for a brief moment before he heard her say softly, "Please trust me."
He didn't have time to respond. By the time they reached Jo and her brothers, Sam and Dean were eager to move into the mansion. Melody followed them, sending Cas one last, quick smile to reassure him.
I trust you, he thought, but I don't trust your enemies.
"This is it, right?" Melody watched from her spot in the shadows. Sam and Dean had just been caught by Crowley's last two henchmen. Now Crowley was boasting after having successfully avoided a devil's trap. "This is what it's all about." The demon held up the Colt, admiring the gun in the moonlight. Melody was a bit surprised. She expected someone…taller. And not a brit that's for sure. The suit wasn't a surprise though. Demons liked to dress up for some reason.
While Crowley was distracted, Melody took her chance. She crept around the corner, now flanking Crowley who stood in the center of the room. Her blade felt cool in her hand and she gripped it tightly. Just have to threaten him. We still need as much information as we can get out of this guy. She took one more step and then—
"Not so fast Miss Winchester." Crowley's hand shot out, freezing her in her spot. Melody grimaced and pushed against Crowley's hold. Sam and Dean could only helplessly watch from the sidelines. They saw Melody's eyes turn silver and watched them shine brightly in the dark room. An uncharacteristic and almost ethereal growl could be heard coming from their sister as she grit her teeth and pushed against Crowley's hold. She moved maybe an inch before Crowley turned to her with a dramatic eye roll. "Do you mind? Trust me it's a bloody honor meeting a Knight and all but I'm trying to have a conversation with Dumb and Dumber."
He gave his hand one hard shove. Sam and Dean were forced to watch their sister get thrown backwards. Her spine connected with the opposite wall where she was glued to the spot. Melody let out a groan of pain and heard her blade clatter to the floor.
"Mel!" Sam shouted at her, fighting and fighting to get out of the demons strong grip. He heard Dean struggling as well. But just because he was afraid for his sister's well-being doesn't mean he missed what Crowley had said. He called her a Knight? What kind of Knight? And more importantly why?
"You son of a bitch!" Dean screamed at Crowley. But Crowley was less concerned with Melody and didn't seem bothered by Sam or Dean fighting to get to him.
"Boys please," Crowley grinned at them, "no need to get worked up. She is a Knight—quite hard to kill. Besides," he raised his arm and pointed the Colt straight at Dean, "I am holding all the cards at the moment."
Sam and Dean froze. Now it was Melody's turn to get angry. "Crowley if you hurt them I swear to God I will—"
BANG!
The youngest Winchester felt the demon holding him go stiff before his strong grip fell away. For a moment Sam was stunned. And then Crowley shot a second time. Now Dean felt the demon's strong grip fall away. Melody fell to the floor, the hold on her now gone. Sam reacted first, running over and meeting Melody half way. When Sam was satisfied that Melody wasn't seriously injured, he looked back at Crowley.
"We need to talk." He said turning to lead the siblings out of the room, "Privately." Crowley didn't bother asking them to follow. And he didn't have to. Dean went first, making sure to put as much room between his sister and the demon as he possibly could. He sent her a strange look. Crowley had called her a Knight—twice. Did she have any idea what he meant? Dean mouthed the word 'knight' to his sister and shrugged his shoulders up. Why the hell is he calling you a Knight? The gesture asked, but Melody quickly shook her head. Because she didn't know. Well, she knew but she didn't exactly know…everything. Stooping down, Melody picked up her blade and followed after her brothers where Crowley led them into a dark office. There were a few lit candles on the walls. The entire back wall was filled with books. Each looked more ancient then the last. A large, deeply colored desk sat at the center of the room where a slightly oversized leather chair sat patiently waiting for its master.
"What the hell is this?" Dean ordered an explanation while Crowley went around to stand behind his desk. The demon turned back to the Winchesters, casually shrugging the Colt at them.
"Do you know how deep I could have buried this thing?" He flicked his hand through the air, slamming the office door closed. Melody heard a lock click in place while Crowley continued, "There's no reason you or anyone should know this even exists at all. Except that I told you."
What? Melody blinked, "You? How did you tell us?"
Crowley shrugged, one hand in his pocket, the other casually turning the gun over. "Rumors darling. Rumors and innuendo…sent out on the grapevine."
Sam ignored the whole 'darling' thing for the moment. "Why?" He asked standing slightly closer to this sister. He noticed that Dean was doing it to but didn't say anything about it. "Why tell us anything?"
The demon sighed through his nose before lifting up the Colt, giving it a quick once-over, and then pointing it at Dean's head. This time Melody started to move in front of her brother. Yes, she had been irrationally angry with him lately, but that didn't mean she wanted to see him dead. And even though she was trying to protect her big brother it wouldn't exactly help. Even with the added height from her boots, Dean still stood about an inch or two above her. Crowley didn't really notice or care what Melody was trying to do. "I want you," he said, his finger ghosting over the trigger, "to take this thing to Lucifer and empty it into his face."
"Uh-huh." Dean nodded, putting an arm in front of his sister and gently pushing her aside. She didn't fight him though. She was just as confused as him. "Okay," Dean pointed at the Colt, "and why would you want the devil dead?"
"It's called…" Crowley released the hammer of the Colt and gently placed the gun on top of his desk, "survival. But I forgot—you three, at best, are functional morons."
"Yeah you're functioning…morons." Dean tried and failed at a comeback. All Melody could do was give Dean her best, what the hell, look before rolling her eyes. She made a mental note to remind Dean to let her be the one who does the comebacks from now on.
Crowley sighed but otherwise ignored Dean's embarrassing attempt. "Lucifer isn't a demon, remember? He's an angel—an angel famous for his hatred of humankind. To him your just…filthy bags of pus." He turned and began pouring himself a glass of scotch, "If that's the way he feels about you…what can he think about us?"
The demon took a sip of his drink before plopping down in his large chair. Sam watched Crowley for a moment, realizing what the demon was saying exactly. "But he created you."
Crowley shrugged. "To him, we're just servants. Cannon fodder. If Lucifer manages to exterminate humankind…we're next." He stood from his seat having finished his drink. Crowley walked around to stand in front of his desk. "So…help me. Huh? Let's all go back to simpler, better times. Back to…when we could all follow our natures. I'm in sales damnit. So, what do you say?" He turned and picked up the Colt, "What if I give you this thing…and you go kill the devil?"
Melody had now come to realize three things. One, she needed to come up with a new word for her brothers. Apparently Crowley really likes calling Sam and Dean "morons" just as much as she does. Two, She needed to contact this Crowley and get some answers out of him because apparently he knows something about her and the whole 'Knight of Heaven' thing. And three…
Castiel was an amazing drinker.
After receiving both the Colt and the next location of the devil from Crowley, Melody, her brothers, Castiel, Bobby, Jo and Ellen had all gathered for one last night at Bobby's place. And what do you do when this could possibly be your last night on Earth? Drinking contest of course. Ellen was currently challenging Castiel. Each had to take turns downing five shots of whiskey. Ellen had just finished her second round of shots and now it was Castiel's turn.
Melody sat next to him, sitting in her chair with her legs crossed over each other. Her boots had been discarded hours ago so now she had an easier time sitting in the chair without touching her feet to the ground. It'd always been something her brothers would tease her about. The fact that she could never sit in a dining chair with her feet touching the ground. Personally Melody blamed the movie Jaws. Jo sat across from her. Having flipped the chair around the hunter now leaned against the back of the chair while she sipped at her third beer of the night. Castiel and Ellen were across from each other. Ellen leaning casually on the table, Castiel sitting as stiff as a board.
However, he quickly downed all five shots in front of him. When he'd finished the last glass and flipped it over onto the table, the angel sat back. He wiggled his fingers and licked his lips. "I think I'm starting to feel something."
Dean heard his sister laugh for the billionth time that night. He rolled his eyes, "Wasn't she supposed to be in here helping us?" He looked back down at his maps not seeing Sam wince.
"Give her a break Dean, she's been dealing with a lot of crap lately." Also she's kind of high on giddy, puppy-love emotions because she and Castiel had sex and are kind of together. Sam repressed a shudder. It was still weird to think about.
"Yeah well, you can tell her all of this later." Dean mumbled, still not looking up from his research. Sam was grateful Dean was so distracted at the moment. The youngest glanced over his shoulder and watched Melody playfully knock her shoulder against Castiel's. And her sock covered foot was touching his leg and it didn't look like she was going to move it any time soon. They were getting way too comfortable. Mel was the one who wanted to keep her and Cas a secret, why was she acting like a giddy teenager?
Sam sighed, not wanting to be the one who has to constantly tell his sister and Cas to stop being affectionate with each other. Not only because that wasn't his place but it would be beyond awkward and border on horrifying. The youngest turned back to face his brother. He glanced over the gathered maps and lore. "It's got to be a trap, right?"
Dean looked up from his map and gave his brother a cynical smile, "Sam Winchester having trust issues with a demon." Dean shrugged, "Well, better late than never."
"Yeah," Sam gave his brother a tight smile, "and thank you again for your continued support." He knew Dean didn't mean anything. That was just Dean's way. And the oldest Winchester always had the hardest time just giving a straight answer. Sam believed Dean had been hit on the head one too many times, but he digressed.
The youngest held out his beer bottle, to which Dean eagerly answered, "You're welcome." And knocked his own bottle against his little brother's. They both took sips from their beers, Sam laughing off his brother's snarky comment the whole time. "And you know trap or no trap," Dean said setting his map on the desk top and leaning his arms on the wood, "we got a snowball's chance, we got to take it, right?"
Sam shrugged, "Yeah, I suppose." He heard Melody laugh again and say something along the lines of, 'one more round please' and then something like 'I want to see him get drunk'. Sam suddenly had a really bad itch in his throat and coughed rather loudly, turning half way in his seat and "coughing" over his shoulder. The sound must have grabbed Melody's attention. She looked over her own shoulder at him and saw Sam's 'shut the hell up' face. She only frowned at him before turning back around in her seat.
"Besides," Dean said after Sam looked back at him. Thank god. Dean was just far too focused on the job to notice his sister's behavior. The oldest started pulling out various sheets of paper, "I'm not sure it is a trap. Check it out." He flipped the map around and pointed out several different marked locations. "Carthage, Missouri is lit up like a Christmas tree with revelation omens." He grabbed a stack of articles, spreading them out for Sam to look at. "And look at this," Dean pulled out a second pile of papers, "there's been six missing persons reported in town…since Sunday." He sat back in his seat, lifting his beer to his mouth. "I think the devil's there."
It was a lot to take in but it was all pointing to the same thing. Sam let out a long, tired breath. "Well…okay."
Dean sat forward in his seat again, "And look when you think about it…you can't come with. Neither can Mels. You both can't come with."
"Can't come with who?" Melody asked having left the small gathering to join her brothers for a bit. She had a glass of whiskey in one hand, the other was shoved casually into her back jean pocket. Dean didn't answer her right away but he didn't have to. The evidence of what they'd been talking about was lying face up on the desk in front of her. Melody's eyes went wide. "What? To Carthage? You don't want us to go kill the devil?"
"No Mels. I don't." Dean answered her sternly. And even though he was only using a stern voice because he was genuinely worried about his siblings, it didn't help at all. In fact, it seemed to make them want to go more. Sam rolled his eyes before sighing.
"Dean…" The youngest trailed off and both Sam and Melody became silent. Because Dean knew what they wanted. He knew what they were going to say and they knew that he knew.
"Look," he began to defend his decision, "I go against Satan and screw the pooch…okay. We've lost a game piece. That, we can take. But if you're there…" he pointed at Sam, "then we are handing the devil's vessel right over to him."
Melody scoffed, "What and I'm just some fragile doll who can't go into battle?"
"No," Dean answered her, "no, you're a fighter Mels—I know that. But this whole thing with your powers and Crowley calling you a…a Knight? We don't know what that means. But I bet you Lucifer does and I'm certain he'll want you just as much as he wants Sam."
"Good." Melody shrugged, "I want him to come to me so I can kill him myself."
"Damnit Mels we can't do that." Dean kept his voice as even as possible. He should have used this moment to tell Sam and Melody everything Cas had revealed. But he didn't. It was possibly their last night on Earth. Dean didn't want to put that on their shoulders. He shook his head and pointed at both his siblings. "You and Sam can't be there it's just not smart."
He saw Sam roll his eyes. "Since when have we ever done anything smart?"
"I'm serious." Dean tried to defend himself but his siblings cut him off.
"So am I."
"Me too." Sam and Melody said over each other. Melody rolled her eyes before throwing back the rest of her whiskey. "Look, I'm going whether you like it or not. Get used to it." Her mood went from casual to irritated in less than half a second. Melody gave Dean one last, hard look before turning on her heel to join the others again.
Sam just sighed. There she goes again with the attitude. He understood getting frustrated with Dean being overprotective, but he didn't understand Melody's reaction to it. Because he could have sworn that several years ago Melody would get a little frustrated, but she would never give Dean such an…angry look. Deciding to ignore that for now, Sam decided to try and salvage the small sibling disagreement. "Look Dean I just…haven't we learned a damn thing? If we're gonna do this," he bent his head down to catch his brother's eyes, "we're gonna do it together."
It took him a moment, but Dean eventually decided that there was no point in arguing against his brother and sister. They had their minds set. And both were far too stubborn to back out now. "Okay," Dean sighed, "it's a stupid fucking idea…but okay."
Melody plopped back down in her seat eagerly pouring herself another glass of whiskey. She tipped the bottle until the last drop came out. "Oh come on." Melody groaned before turning to Jo who was already half way out of her seat. "Hey Joey…"
Jo just rolled her eyes, "You know I'm about to start not answering to that."
"But it's cute!" Melody playfully whined getting a grin out of her friend.
"Alright," Jo rolled her eyes, "what do you want?"
Melody's silently held up her now empty whiskey bottle. "More booze…?" Jo just nodded, playfully knocked her fist into Melody's shoulder and went to retrieve more drinks from the fridge. Satisfied that her alcohol would soon be replenished, Melody set down the now empty bottle and leaned back in her seat. She tucked her feet further onto the chair, holding onto her shins. Her knee started hitting Castiel's leg which of course got the angel's attention. He glanced at her, stopping mid-sentence with Ellen. If Melody hadn't been feeling so buzzed, she'd have played it cool. But her fingers were starting to feel fuzzy and her chest was getting nice and warm and when did Castiel get so damn hot?
"How long?" Ellen's voice startled Melody. She jumped and whipped her head around to look at the older woman. The hunter was resting her chin in her hand and watching Melody and Castiel with a gentle smile.
"Um…w-what?" Melody asked—her buzz starting to rapidly fade away.
Ellen chuckled, "How long have you two been together?"
Melody was about to open her mouth and make up some bullshit lie and pretend like she didn't know what Ellen was talking about. But Castiel spoke first. "If you're asking how long we've been involved romantically I would have to say two nights ago. That is if you consider indulging in sexual intercourse for the first time as a sort of marker on starting human relationships. However I have known Melody for about one-thousand, one-hundred and sixty-six days. Or three years, two months and eight days."
When he was finished Melody couldn't even bring herself to be even a little angry with him. She felt her mouth close after her jaw had dropped. "I didn't know you were counting." She glanced at Ellen who had an equally astounded look—oh god Ellen! "Wait!" Melody whispered harshly, letting her feet fall out of the chair she leaned on the table. "You can't tell anyone about this Ellen. I mean I…hang on…how did you know?"
Ellen's only answer was a deep, throaty laugh.
Melody almost retorted—almost. Because unlike Ellen, Melody had definitely noticed her slicker-than-oil brother trying to put the moves on Jo. And Melody had to throw a hand over her mouth to cover up the sputtering laughter that threatened to spill out when she saw Jo teasingly and shamelessly turn her big brother down. Jo returned to her seat, grinning widely. "Joey," Melody said after calming down, "you're my hero."
Jo shrugged and popped open her beer, "I aim to please."
They returned to their comfortable conversation and easy company after that. Melody eventually put her boots back on and calmed down her drinking. She wanted to stay alert enough to remember the night and not have a terrible hangover in the morning. In fact, she was just starting to help Jo and Ellen explain to Cas exactly what a hangover feels like until the heard Bobby's gruff voice call out from his office.
"Everybody get in here! It's time for the lineup."
"Oh come on Bobby. A picture?" Melody groaned from her seat to which she heard a swift and sharp voice call back to her.
"Eat me kid. Now get your ass in here before I lock up all my booze." Eventually everyone was gathered in front of the camera. They all stood close. Sam being the tallest got to stand behind everyone. Dean took his place on Sam's left, Cas stood on Sam's right. Melody stood in front of Sam and on Castiel's left, slyly linking her arm with the angels. Ellen came next, standing on Melody's left followed by Jo and Bobby parked himself in front of the young girl. The mood was generally cheery, even Bobby was making wise cracks about wanting to remember everyone's "sorry asses".
"Well," Ellen chuckled, "it's nice to have an optimist around." Glancing at Melody who nodded and placed her hand against Ellen's shoulder.
"Bobby's right." Castiel said. "Tomorrow we hunt the devil. This is our last night on Earth." And he said it with such certainty Melody almost believed him. Almost. But call it her slight buzz, call it her being high on giddy emotions call it whatever. But Melody just would not and could not let that be what was on everyone's minds when this picture is being taken. She turned to Cas, squeezed his arm and got him to look down at her. She smiled gently up at him and shook her head.
"Not on my watch featherhead."
That picture would be forever seared into their memories as a somber and quiet moment. And looking at it years later, it could be said that it was a very serious and dismal photo. Bobby Singer in his wheelchair, shoulders slightly slumped, eyes lost and unfocused. Ellen and Jo Harvelle, two proud and strong women with stern frowns. Dean Winchester with a passive but slightly apprehensive look. Sam Winchester looking part afraid and part unnerved. And finally Castiel and Melody Winchester. They were looking directly at each other. At first glance, it would seem as if they were frowning too. But if someone were to look close enough, they'd see the tiniest smile on the corner of Melody's mouth. Because unlike the others in that photo, she was more than ready to take on the devil and felt without a shadow of a doubt that they could beat him. If she'd known then what she was soon going to find out…that smile would probably have never been frozen in time.
So...guess what? Chapter 52...um... *cough* *cough* Bill is back *cough*
What? Who said that?
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