He stood in front of her, tilting his head to the side in curiosity before approaching her. It took Zoe only a moment to realize it wasn't him. Her chest ached, distressed at the realization that it wasn't him. It was wrong. All wrong.
Castile took a threatening step, adjusting his grip on his blade to warn the angel. The angel ignored him, and instead focused his gaze on her studying her, taking in everything as he decided how best to begin conversation. He studied her every feature, face, body, posture, frowning slightly at her stiffness.
Zoe bit her cheek, hoping it would be enough. She'd hoped for the impossible, that somehow, by some act of the divine, she'd be given this small glimmer of hope. Of happiness. That he'd know her, he'd remember her and, perhaps they could continue as before. That she could ignore the life she'd come to resign herself to and, perhaps, pretend that it had never happened just to feel happiness again.
She didn't blame the angel. Perhaps he had been under orders, perhaps it had just been coincidence that he had chosen this particle vessel, in all honestly, it would definitely fall in line with what he'd do. She wondered if he'd given his permission willingly. That he knew what he'd be getting himself into without any coercion.
"Forgive me if my choice of vessel causes you any distress," the angel said, cutting through the silence.
Zoe blinked, "it's… it's okay."
The words felt strange, her stomach recoiling the moment they left her mouth. How many times had she told him those words? To assure him it was okay?
The angel didn't seem assured, glancing at Castiel before swallowing, "I understand that you might not approve of this particular choice, but I assure you, he gave his consent willingly and voluntarily."
Zoe nodded, "What's your name?"
"Phanuel," he replied, bowing his head in greeting, "It is an honor to meet you at last. I have heard a lot about you, and I am glad I can finally meet you at last."
Zoe almost laughed at the irony. He'd never considered himself worthy of forgiveness, though he often regretted a lot of the things he'd done. And here he was, possessed by the angel of repentance and hope.
"It's a pleasure to meet you, Phanuael, even though you're kinda possessing my boyfriend," she added, hoping the chuckle would ease the situation.
Phonies relaxed slightly, though he still glanced at Castiel, checking himself to avoid the Angel's wrath.
"what brings you here Phanuel?"