Nothing Else Matters

"Cas!?" Dean almost falls on his ass again from sheer shock.

"Hello, Dean. Sam." Castiel smiles at Dean, looking relieved.

"Cas…" Sam gapes in disbelief. "Is it really you?"

Castiel nods. "Yes, I am me."

Sam huffs a small laughter. "Oh my God… We should test you, but-"

"Screw that." Dean walks forward. He can't say why, but he just knows that this is really Cas. "Holy shit, Cas. I can't believe it." He hugs the angel tightly, laughing from pure joy. He revels in the feel of Cas's arms around him, a clear sign of him being alive.

Dean's not sure how long they stand there, but he reluctantly pulls back when he can sense Sam hovering behind him, eager to give Cas a hug as well. Dean stands back and proudly watches his brother hug their best friend.

Sam steps back as well, keeping a hand on Cas's shoulder as if he's afraid the angel will disappear again if he's not grounded. "Don't take this the wrong way, Cas, but how are you back?"

Castiel cocks his head in that familiar way of his, looking confused. "Dean didn't tell you?"

"What?" Sam frowns, looking at Dean.

Dean is looking confused as well. "What do you mean? How the hell should I know how you got back?"

Castiel almost looks like Dean has just slapped him. "We… You… I mean… Don't you remember?"

"Remember what?" Dean barks.

"Oh!" Sam seems to catch on to what's going on. "You met in Heaven, didn't you? Of course, you did. Cas, Dean doesn't remember anything from Heaven."

"If I were in Heaven," Dean mumbles.

"You were!" Castiel and Sam answer at the same time.

Dean gapes at Cas. "Really? I was? And we met up there? Wait, did you bring me back?"

Castiel seems to deflate. "No, I didn't. I've been looking for you for weeks. I figured you might be back on Earth, but you are still hidden from all angels, and Jack is very strict on his free will and no interference policy. But when I felt your soul leave your body, I demanded he grant me passage to Earth."

"Damn, why don't I remember?" Dean runs his hands through his hair.

"I don't know." Castiel looks sad.

So sad that Dean almost thinks he might cry. "It's alright, Cas. We'll figure it out."

"No, you don't understand…" Castiel raises his hands, as if to reach for Dean, but then catches himself in the movement and stops.

Sam looks back and forth between them, and he catches something in Cas's eyes that makes him interrupt them. "Guys, I know this is important, but maybe we should talk about it somewhere else?"

"Right, we got a long hike down to the door," Dean sighs.

Castiel rolls his eyes and grabs their shoulders, and before Dean can protest, they are back in the bunker.

-.-.-.-.-

They are greeted by the loud bang from a shotgun, and Castiel looks exasperated as the rock salt digs into his back.

"Morgan! Stop! He's with us!" Sam holds up his hands and steps in front of Castiel before Morgan can take another shot.

Morgan doesn't take her eyes away from Castiel. "Like hell he is. Didn't even flinch at getting shot."

"Rock salt has no effect on me," Castiel states matter-of-factly.

Morgan tightens her grip on the shotgun, but Sam steps over to put a hand on the barrel and lower it. "Okay, easy. This is a little bit complicated, but just trust me, okay? He's one of the good guys."

Morgan reluctantly lowers the gun completely. She then pulls something from her back pocket. "You know the drill." She waves a bottle of holy water and a silver pocketknife at them.

-.-.-.-.-

After passing the tests, they walk back to the library. It has gotten late, and the space is empty except for two older hunters playing cards and drinking beer.

"Hey, can we have the room?" Sam asks when they walk in.

With mumbled 'sures', the hunters gather their cards and drinks and leaves with a nodded 'goodnight'.

Dean turns to Sam when they are alone. "'Can we have the room'? Damn, mister boss man."

"Shut up," Sam hisses before turning towards Cas. "Alright, so how-"

But Castiel has already moved down to the wooden table where Sam and Dean has carved the angel's name next to their own. Castiel traces his fingers along the grooves of his name.

Dean steps up to him, looking down at the names. "Team Free Will."

"You told me about it. I'm very honoured." Castiel sends him a small, fond smile, but it falters quickly.

"I don't remember that either…"

Castiel steps away from the table, as if to create some distance between him and Dean. "I might be able to recreate your memories of Heaven, like when we retraced Michael's steps through your mind. But it could be very overwhelming and potentially painful, depending on the reason for their erasure."

"Cas, buddy, I just had an arm rummaging through my soul like a fox in a henhouse. I'm sure this'll be a walk in the park. But are you sure you have enough mojo?"

"Oh, I got my 'mojo' back." Castiel looks away shyly, as if this isn't anything to celebrate.

"Really? You're fully powered up?" Dean looks more closely at Cas, and yeah, he can actually see it. Cas looks better, less tired, stronger. He looks good.

Castiel smiles again and gives Dean a small nod. He then gestures to one of the chairs. "Take a seat."

Before Castiel can put his hands on Dean's head, Sam returns to his previous question. "Hey Cas. How did you get out of the Empty?"

Just as curious, Dean turns in the chair to look up at the angel. Castiel almost looks embarrassed by being put on the spot, but still sends the brothers a small smile. "It was Jack. He decided to come get me, as one last act of interference."

"Of course. How is he?" Sam asks.

"Very well. A very caring and just God." Castiel stands a bit taller, proud of his son.

"Good, that's good." Sam takes a deep breath. "I've missed him. And you. Both of you."

"I've missed you as well. Oh, that reminds me; Congratulations on your marriage to Eileen and the birth of your son."

"You know about that?" Sam asks, his eyes shining a bit more, even in the dim light of the library.

Castiel smiles. "Even though Heaven is closed off, Jack still has acute senses and control of the universe. He sensed the birth of another Winchester and checked in quickly."

"You know they called him Dean?" Dean interrupts, a proud smile on his face.

Castiel smiles at him. "Yes, Jack told us. You were just as proud then as you are now."

Dean looks away, but Castiel clearly sees the back of his neck turning a shade redder than before.

Dean quickly changes the subject. "Alright. Get digging into to my memory." He braces himself, hands fisted on the table.

"Yeah, let's find out what the hell is going on. Hopefully, we'll find out how you got back," Sam agrees and settles down in the chair next to Dean in silent support.

Castiel steps closer and carefully puts his hands on each side of Dean's head.

-.-.-.-.-

Dean should be surprised that Bobby is the one greeting him in Heaven instead of his parents. But on the other hand, it makes perfect sense. Bobby has been more constant in his life than his parents ever were. That does not mean that he doesn't love his parents, but Bobby is just… Bobby.

When asked what he wants, it only takes a thought to bring Baby into existence. Of all things between Heaven and Earth that he could wish for, all he wants is Baby roaring around him and a long stretch of road ahead. It gives him time to think, time to process that he is dead. And that he left Sam behind. He wants Sam to live and to be happy, more than anything. But leaving him, for good this time, was still the hardest thing he has ever done.

Sam had always been his mission in life. Now, they both have to stand on their own feet and find out what is next.

And all Dean can think about wanting at this point is his family.

The scenery starts changing, the trees giving way to open fields. Before he knows it, the Roadhouse's shape appears, but it looks more well-kept than he remembers from before it was burned down. But hey, it's Heaven, you can't have a rundown bar in a place like this, right?

He wonders why his need to see his family would summon the Roadhouse, but hey, he can use another beer, and if Ash is still hanging around here, it would be awesome to see him again.

It is weirdly quiet when he gets out of the car, but he still has a small jump in his step as he leaps up to the Roadhouse, exited to see it again.

The moment he pushes the door open, the quiet is broken by a choir of "Surprise!"

The bar is filled with people that Dean has lost throughout the years. He hugs his parents first. His mom welcomes him, tells him how proud she is, how happy she is to see him, asks about Sam. His dad is quieter, but has a hand on Dean's shoulder, squeezing him reassuringly and… smiling. It reminds him of the dad he got to know for a short time when the Baozhu granted him his heart's desire.

Dean is apprehensive about greeting Ellen and Jo, but they both embrace him, welcoming him to Heaven and telling him that he is always welcome in the Roadhouse. That is all Dean needs to hear to know that he is forgiven for getting them killed.

Dean meets Bobby again, and Rufus – with freaking Aretha! – Kevin, Pastor Jim, Pamela, and – Oh God, Charlie – and so many other faces that he never forgot, that he has repeatedly lost in his nightmares, and feared that he would never see again. And they all greet him, welcome him to Heaven, and congratulate him on his battle against Chuck.

Ash brings him a crappy beer and challenges him to a 'duel of pool', but Dean takes a raincheck on that one. There's one face missing in the large crowd, and he finds himself scouting through all the familiar faces, looking for this one person. Pamela, perceptive as ever, seems to catch him looking around, and tells him to go pick a song from the jukebox, sending him a wink before pushing him in the right direction.

And there he is.

Castiel is sitting on a chair next to the jukebox, seemingly hiding in the crowd, almost swallowed by that damn trench coat. He looks up when Dean approaches him, and quickly gets to his feet. He looks nervous.

Dean sends him a reassuring smile. "Hey, Cas."

Castiel seems to relax a bit. "Hello, Dean."

Dean smiles even brighter at the familiar words. "Wasn't sure you'd have the time to come say hi. It's quite a renovation project you and the kid have going on."

Castiel looks down at the floor. "Of course, I have time. I just… wasn't sure if you would want to see me."

"What do you mean?" Dean frowns.

Castiel fidgets with his hands. "After what I told you… I wasn't sure if…"

Dean doesn't like seeing his friend like this. "Cas, shut up." Cas immediately does so, trying to stand taller as if preparing himself for Dean's judgement. Dean just shakes his head and takes the two steps necessary to hug the angel tightly. "Of course, I want to see you, you idiot."

Castiel relaxes in Dean's arms, and slowly raises his own to reciprocate the hug. When Dean stands back, Castiel is smiling. "Thank you."

"Don't. If anything, I should be thanking you. You saved my life, Cas."

Castiel nods, accepting Dean's gratitude. "I'm just sorry your time after Chuck was so short."

"Nah," Dean shrugs. "It's been my time to go too many times to count. And, without the 'hero protection' from Chuck, I guess death just caught up with me."

Castiel cocks his head to the side, studying Dean's face. "Maybe. Still, I wished you a long and happy life."

The words strike something in Dean. He doesn't remember anyone saying something like that to him before. Sure, he and Sam have sometimes discussed leaving the hunting life and living normal, happy, sappy lives, but it is different coming from Cas. There's so much… affection in the way Cas looks at him and in his words that Dean can't disregard them as 'that's what you're supposed to say'.

Before Dean can come up with a fitting response, Jo pops up next to them, grabbing both Dean's and Castiel's arm. "Come on, you party poopers. Time for pie!"

Dean sends an apologetic smile at Castiel, and Castiel reciprocates with a genuinely happy smile of his own, before they let Jo drag them to a table filled with edible goods.

-.-.-.-.-

The welcome party lasts for hours, and Dean is overwhelmed by the amount of people who has come to great him. He would have thought that a lot of them would have wanted him dead, but hey, maybe that's why they are happy to see him here.

When people start to leave, Dean realises that he doesn't know where to go next. Maybe he could go stay with his parents, but really, he just feels a bit too old for that.

Luckily, Cas is here to save him, again. "A house will be waiting for you, where you want it and how you want it."

"Just like that, huh?" Dean asks with a sleepy smile.

"Just like that," Castiel confirms with a returning smile.

"Well, let's go find it then." Dean gets up, and as if no time has past, he expects Cas to follow. And Cas does.

Normally, Dean should not be driving at this point. He has had quite a few drinks tonight because everyone wanted to toast him, but somehow, when he gets behind the wheel, his senses become sharp, though he still feels relaxed and content from the alcohol.

Castiel settles in the shotgun seat, and Dean let's the Impala take them out on the open road. "Where to?"

"You'll find it," Castiel answers cryptically.

Dean shakes his head in disbelief. "I can't figure out how all this shit works, man. Do you just wish for things and then they appear?"

Castiel purses his lips in thought. "Hm, it's a bit more complicated than that, but yes. Heaven still draws on your happiest memories to help create the ideal Heaven for you. Your car, for example, should live up to your memory of her."

"She does," Dean nods. "Her engine runs as smoothly as ever. No nicks in the paint. Soldier Scott is still in the ashtray."

Castiel casts a look behind him at the toy soldier guarding one of the backdoors. "Yes. Your initials are still carved in the door as well."

"We did that in the bunker too. Sam and me. Guess it's just our way to leave our mark. We carved mom's name, and yours, and Jack's too." Dean keeps his eyes fixed on the road, though he can feel Cas looking at him. He's not sure if he wants to see what kind of look Cas is sending him right now.

"You did?" Castiel's voice sounds small, but happy.

"Of course. You're family," Deans states.

"Thank you."

They continue the trip in silence, and soon they come around to a lake. The moon is shimmering in the smooth surface, and on the opposite side, high hills covered in trees make a beautiful display of the best nature has to offer.

Dean barely finishes the thought, that he would love to live in a place like this, before he turns a corner and notices a small wooden pier sticking out from the shore. And on the landside, a small house appears. It's a wooden cabin, matching the pier, and not too big, but there's a wide veranda towards the lake, making a perfect venue to enjoy the view.

"It seems that you've found your home," Castiel states.

"Really? That's mine?" Dean asks, turning the Impala down the gravel road leading to the house.

Dean gets out and looks at the house. It's one floor, plenty big for one person but still easy to oversee. It's perfect for a semi-paranoid, old hunter like him.

Castiel gestures for Dean to look closer, so he walks up on the veranda. The door opens as he turns the handle, giving a small squeak. It might be something that would bother other people, but Dean likes to be able to hear if someone enters his home.

The inside is kept in a similar wooden cabin look, very warm and cozy. The kitchen and living room are only divided by a bar desk, making it open and perfect for hanging out with family and friends, just as Dean has always dreamed. There are two bedrooms, both roomy and with huge beds – or at least they seem huge to Dean after a life of shitty motel room beds. The master bedroom has a private bathroom, and Dean blushes a little bit when he sees a tub in there. Alright, he has always wanted one of those, being fed up with a life of crappy motel showers, but he still hadn't expected to see one.

Castiel has remained in the living room while Dean has explored his new home, and Dean returns to him with a huge grin on his face. "Cas, man. This is amazing."

Castiel smiles. "It suits you. I think you will be very happy here."

Happy.

Who would have thought that such an innocent word could send Dean's stomach plummeting through the floor. He's thought about what Cas said so many times, kept it as a guideline in his life after Chuck, trying to be a man deserving of Cas's words.

And he has thought time and time again about what he would have answered. What he should have answered, if they had had the time.

"Cas, listen…" And yet, the words slip away from him when he tries to voice them.

"Dean, you don't have to say anything." Castiel can read Dean's intentions clear as day.

Dean straightens his shoulders. "Yes, I do. You deserve an answer."

Castiel straightens his shoulders as well, two soldiers making their way into dangerous territory.

When Castiel nods, Dean continues: "I… I couldn't believe that you felt that way about me. Feel that way. After everything that I've done, I… I don't deserve it. More importantly, you deserve better. A hell of a lot better, Cas. And I'm so sorry. I wish I could give you what you want, what you deserve but… I can't. I care about you, but… I can't. And I don't want to lose you. You're still my best friend and I'm so damn lucky that you were the angel to pull my sorry ass out of Hell, but..."

"Dean, stop." Castiel has a small smile on his face, sad yet appreciative. "I do not require you to reciprocate my feelings. That does not make you any less worthy of them, and I am happy that you know how I feel today. I will always be your friend, no matter what."

Dean can feel tears prickling in his eyes, and his throat feels rough. Instead of saying anything, he just closes the gap between them and pulls Cas into a tight hug. In the hidden crook of Cas's shoulder, he whispers: "Damnit, Cas."

Castiel hugs him back. "It's okay, Dean."

-.-.-.-.-

Dean slowly finds a new normal in Heaven. Despite having everything he's ever wanted, it's difficult to go from hunter to Heaven from day to day. Dean keeps waiting for the other shoe to drop.

But it doesn't.

He gets up in the morning, makes breakfast, go fishing or driving or visiting friends and family, has dinner, checks every window and lock before going to bed. And yeah, he tries the damn tub and holy crap that is awesome.

Castiel comes by, as promised, and Dean tries his best to act normal. But damn, it's harder than he thought.

Not that Castiel in any way pushes himself onto Dean. Quite the opposite. He keeps a bit more distance, actually respecting Dean's personal space. He doesn't just pop up inside Dean's house, but always outside, knocking on the front door and waits for Dean to let him in.

It's very respectful, and so very, very wrong.

The only way Dean can describe it is that he misses Cas. Misses the way he would stand too close, pop up out of nowhere and damnit he even misses to be woken up by the feeling of Cas staring at him in his sleep. How messed up is that?

And Cas doesn't seem fazed by it at all. Actually, he seems extremely relaxed. He rests in himself, and in just being around Dean. He might be a bit more verbal about some things, clearly talking from the place of love that he has created for Dean, but it's never in an attempt to force his feelings. It's to help and support Dean and his poor self-worth.

Like when Dean says: "Damnit, I can't believe Charlie wants to come over. I got her killed!"

Castiel answers: "She died fighting for what she believed in. She does not blame you Dean. Her death was not your fault."

Or when Dean says: "Why am I even here, Cas? Think about all the shit I've done. How do I deserve to be in Heaven?"

Castiel answers: "You have sacrificed more than any human I have ever met. You always put everyone else's needs before your own happiness. Your love for the world and appreciation for every life on it is inspiring."

And when Dean says: "You sure you want to keep coming around? There must be more interesting places to hang out than here."

Castiel answers: "I don't want to be anywhere else."

And Dean doesn't quite know how to handle it. He tries to take it in, be less self-deprecating, but even Heaven can't change what he has been telling himself for his entire life; That he doesn't deserve this. He doesn't deserve good things.

On top of that, Dean can't help feeling bad about seeing Cas's feelings for him so clearly in everything he does. Maybe he should have noticed sooner on Earth, but he never even considered the idea, too busy fighting whatever-big-bad Chuck had sent at them to make their lives miserable.

But now, Dean has plenty of time to study everything that Cas does, to think about it, to dissect it, to analyse it – To drive himself mad!

Because the thing is… things are better when Cas is here. Dean relaxes a bit more when Cas is in his proximity, when Dean knows that he is safe.

And Dean doesn't know what to make of that.

-.-.-.-.-

One thing that Dean absolutely loves in Heaven is inviting everyone over for a barbecue. He perfects his burger, uses hours to make killer ribs and even stays up for 24 hours working on the most amazing brisket. He even takes up baking, throwing himself into the art of pie making. Dean is happy to find that even though he is in Heaven, the things he makes doesn't automatically turn out perfect. Things can be too salty or overcooked. It gives him plenty to experiment with.

Food has always been the easiest way for Dean to express his feelings for others, ever since he let Sam have the last cereal for dinner or when he resolved to five-finger-discount to get Sam the peanut butter and jelly sandwich he begged for. And food just tastes better when shared with the people he loves.

Dean is happily surprised when he finds out that Jack has given Cas and the other angels the ability to taste and enjoy food. They might not need it for nourishment, but hey, neither does Dean now. But to see Cas enjoy food quickly makes it Dean's mission to get the angel to try as many new things as possible.

Today is one of those days, and Dean has invited his parents and a bunch of his closest friends to try out his food, but especially Cas. Cas sits across from him, and Dean keeps adding things to his plate to get him to try it. Cas dutifully tastes everything, comparing them and rating them for Dean's enjoyment.

Cas likes the barbecued beef burger better than the chicken one. Maybe there's still a little bit of Jimmy's tastebuds in him.

Cas prefers the baked potato to the mashed potato, simply because of the structure and the different toppings he can put on the baked potato. Damn straight, Dean has made a killer bacon topping for those bad boys.

Cas is not a big fan of pickled red onion. He likes the crunch of bell peppers. He prefers ketchup with his fries.

Lastly, Dean serves up no less than three different pies, excited to see what Cas – what everyone – thinks of them.

Dean is about to serve three pieces on Cas's plate, but Cas puts up a hand to stop him. "I'm sorry, Dean, but I don't think I can eat all of that."

Dean frowns. "What? Jack put a limit on how much you can eat?"

Mary laughs further down the table. "Oh honey, I think it's only you who can fit three pieces of pie in your stomach right now."

"That's because I have a special stomach for pie," Dean states, scooping the three pieces unto his own plate. He really wanted Cas to taste them, so he gets an idea. He scoops up a bite from the apple pie and reaches across the table to Cas. "Here, just have a bite at least."

Castiel rolls his eyes but leans forward to take the pie from the fork. As soon as he tastes it, he hums appreciatively. "Mmm, very nice."

"Right?" Dean says excitedly, repeating the process with the cherry pie.

"Hm…. Not bad, but I think I liked the apple better." Castiel analyses the flavours.

"Yeah, you can't fail with apple and cinnamon. Here, last bite, pecan pie." Dean offers a bite of the last pie.

Cas takes it, and it's not until this third time where Cas is eating off of Dean's fork that Dean realises how silent the table is. He looks down at everyone to find out what is wrong and finds them all staring at him.

And that's when he realises what he's doing. He's feeding Cas with his own fork. Like, fork-to-mouth feeding him.

Castiel just gets the pecan pie off the fork before Dean pulls back abruptly, still looking at his friends and family. "What?"

They all turn away and start digging into dessert with knowing smiles and a choir of: "Nothing."

Castiel is as oblivious as ever, just tasting the pecan pie. "Also good, but I still prefer the apple."

Dean is looking at his fork, thinking about if he should exchange it with Cas's unused one, but he chooses against it. Considering the blood, goo, and slime he has been covered with, and sometimes has gotten in his mouth, a little bit of angelic DNA is probably the least of it.

-.-.-.-.-

"I understand why you enjoy this so much. It is very peaceful and beautiful." Castiel leans back in the chair and closes his eyes from the sun.

Dean smiles as he looks over his lake – Damn straight, he calls it his – and sees their fishing lines floating lazily in the surface. He turns to look at Cas when he answers him but freezes at the sight. Dean had demanded that Cas change into something more comfortable for fishing, so he had borrowed a pair of jeans and a t-shirt from Dean. And here the angel is, leaning back in a crappy fold-out chair, fishing next to Dean, and looking like it is the best thing he has ever tried.

Dean swallows and looks away. "Yeah, it's great. A lot better than last time you popped in during a fishing trip."

Castiel sits a bit straighter, so the sun doesn't blind him as he looks over at Dean. "That was a dream."

"More like a nightmare," Dean corrects him, thinking back to finding Cas, or actually, finding Jimmy instead of Cas. Back then, he felt good for Jimmy to get out of the whole angelic possession thing, but today he can't imagine losing Cas, not even to his vessel's rightful owner, if Jimmy had still been somewhere in there. Dean doesn't want to talk or think about that, so instead, he asks: "How could you even pass me that note in a dream? How does that work?"

"Magic," Castiel answers with a cocky smile and Dean laughs. "No, it's hard to explain. I guess you can think of it as a kind of astral projection."

Dean hums noncommittally and goes back to enjoying the peaceful quiet, only interrupted by the twirping birds and water gurgling along the shore.

They stay for hours, barely talking, because they don't need to. They don't catch anything, but that's fine. It's not really what they are here for.

When the sun starts to set, Dean pulls back his fishing line, nudging Cas to do the same. "Come on. I've got something for you."

Castiel looks pleasantly surprised and a little eager, so Dean hopes that he won't be too disappointed.

Dean has prepared a small fireplace and two chairs side by side. He lights the wood, enjoying the crackling of the popping resin. He and Castiel settle in the chairs, watching the fire catch. When the fire has caught and dimmed a bit, Dean brings out a small pot, meant for cooking over a fireplace, and a bowl covered by a cloth. He's cheated a bit and prepared the food in the kitchen, but he heats the contents of the pot on the fire.

"It's nothing special." Dean quickly tries to lower Cas's expectations, considering the normal array of foods Dean dishes up. "I just got thinking the other day, about how Sam and I would sometimes do this. We would buy some beans and cheap meat and stuff and make a sort of stew over a fire. For a long time, until we settled in the bunker actually, this was the closest thing to real cooking that we did. I mean, I did some cooking that year with Lisa and such, but… Yeah." For some reason, Dean kicks himself for bringing up Lisa. Shouldn't be anything weird about that, just talking to his best buddy, but he still cuts himself off.

Castiel just dips his head and smiles. "I'm happy you would share the recreation of this memory with me."

"Of course, Cas." Dean nods at him. For a moment, they just sit there, looking at each other, sharing this small moment. Dean's not sure how long they sit like that but a loud crack from the burning wood brings him out of his musings. "Right, now for the best part."

Dean takes the covered bowl and hands it to Castiel. Castiel curiously removes the cloth, squinting at the content. "Is that dough?"

"Yup." Dean smiles and picks up two sticks that he prepared earlier. "We're gonna need something to eat with that stew."

Dean then shows Cas how to take a piece of dough and twist it around the stick. Cas looks… well, honestly, he looks kinda cute, when he concentrates on shaping the dough around the stick as if it were the most important task in all of Heaven.

Dean proceeds to instruct Castiel on how to bake it over the fire, not too far from the flames and not too close. And of course he fails miserably because that's how it's supposed to be. They get to laugh at each other when they keep becoming impatient and burn patches of bread.

They both end up with the magical combination of half-burned/half-raw dough, meaning the bread is absolutely terrible to soak up the sauce. Still, Cas takes it like a champ, enjoying the meal for what it is.

It's just how Dean remembers it, and he is so happy to share it with Cas.

-.-.-.-.-

It takes some time before Jack comes to visit. Dean can't blame him, being God and all, but he is still relieved that Jack has not stayed away because he didn't want to see Dean. Actually, the kid almost jumps straight into his arms, and Dean revels in the fact that Jack hasn't changed, hasn't become anything like Chuck.

It turns out that Jack doesn't just come to join family dinner but comes bringing news to both Dean and his parents. Despite promising to keep the doors to Earth closed, Jack still has his divine sensors out, and he has apparently picked up on a disturbance in the force.

Sam has become a dad. He finally put a ring on Eileen, and together they have given life to a beautiful baby boy.

All the Winchesters break out in joy. Mary wipes at her happy tears and hugs John. Dean immediately hugs Jack for bringing the good news, and then hugs his parents.

Lastly, Dean turns to Cas and hugs him. "You heard that, Cas? I'm an uncle!" As if Castiel could somehow have missed it.

Castiel laughs into Dean's ear as they hug, sharing the family's joy, and it only makes Dean even happier.

"Oh, I wonder how big he is. You know, both you and Sam were a little chubby when you were born." Mary is buzzing with excitement. "And what they're going to name him? Maybe after Eileen's father?"

"Dean," Jack says.

"What?" Dean asks, still smiling.

"That's his name. Dean," Jack smiles.

"Wait… They named him…?" Dean can't get the words out, completely shocked.

"They named him after you," Jack confirms with a huge smile, unaware of what his words are doing to Dean.

Dean immediately fights back tears. He knows that Sam cares about him, but he also knows that he has not always been the best big brother in the world. He's been too stubborn, too aggressive, too commanding. But even after all that, Sam named his son after him. After swallowing hard, Dean finally says: "Well… That's a pretty good name he's got there."

"Damn right it is." John throws an arm around Dean's shoulders, and Dean doesn't think that his dad has ever looked so proud of him.

Jack stays for dinner and tells them about Heaven. He's still busy rebuilding everything and getting the angels to see things his way. The whole philosophy of 'free will' is not easy for the old angels to adapt to. The newer angels are easier, created in Jack's image, but that only creates even further challenges with getting the old and the new angels to work together. Moreover, they are still so few, which makes the renovation slower than hoped.

After dinner, Jack has to leave again but promises to be back soon. Dean hugs him tightly goodbye and Castiel walks outside with Jack and the rest of the Winchester family.

Dean goes into the kitchen to wash the dishes. He could make Heaven do the hard work. He's starting to get the hang on the whole 'wishing for things and getting them', but Dean is still not used to just sitting around doing nothing, so he prefers to do most things himself. He wants the Impala to get dirty so he can wash her. He wants the grass to grow so he can mow it. He wants the fish in the lake to put up a fight. He's even taken up hunting, the normal kind, because he likes to keep his skills sharp.

"Do you need a hand?" Dean jumps a little at Castiel's voice behind him.

"Hey, Cas. Thought you left with Jack." Dean quickly recovers.

Castiel steps closer. "No, I just walked him out and said goodbye to your parents."

Dean nods. "You can lend a hand I your like. If you don't need to help Jack with any angelic, heavenly business."

"I already told you: I am never too busy to help you, Dean." Castiel smiles easily and picks up the dishtowel.

Dean hands Cas the first cleaned glass. "Can you believe it, man? Sam's a dad!"

"It is truly amazing."

"He'll be a great dad. I can just see him, a stay-at-home dad in a pink, little apron." Dean smiles.

Castiel laughs. "You think he stopped hunting?"

"He better have," Dean says. "He better be home, taking care of that kid. He can let Eileen do all the ass kicking."

"You don't want Sam's son to grow up the way you did?" Even though Castiel phrases it like a question, Dean hears it as the statement that it is.

Still, Dean answers: "No. I want him to have a home, an actual home, with windows and a garden. Not a dusty, old bunker. And I don't want him home alone, wondering when mom and dad will be home. If they will be home."

Castiel is silent for a moment before saying: "Though I am aware of your past, and proud of who you have become despite of it, it still saddens me to think about how you had to live as a child. I wish you could have had the normal childhood that you deserve."

"It's fine. Turned out okay," Dean deflects.

"More than okay," Castiel insists.

Dean just nods, still not used to Cas's praise, but he is becoming a little bit better at accepting it.

They continue in comfortable silence, only listening to the sounds of splashing water, porcelain against porcelain and the soft swoosh of the dishtowel as Castiel dries whatever Dean hands him.

It once again hits Dean exactly what they are doing, what Cas is doing. Castiel, angel of the Lord, holy warrior, and New God's next in command, is drying Dean's plates.

Dean looks over at Cas, almost expecting to see the plates floating around in the air, because someone as powerful as Cas can't possibly degrade himself to perform such a simple task. But he is. And he looks happy, content, relaxed. Like he belongs, even in his suit and trench coat.

Dean's heart makes a small skip, and Dean resolutely turns back to the sink.

-.-.-.-.-

Charlie lives in something that can best be described as the love child between the Batcave and an arcade. Batcade? Arcave? No matter the label, it is filled with retro games – digital and boards – and a home theatre battling the Deancave.

Dean often comes by with a six pack, and they dig into all the nerd merch that Charlie has dreamt up. Of course, Dean brings Cas along. Afterall, Charlie has declared the angel her new bestie, right?

And that means that Dean gets to continue the movie/TV series marathons that he and Cas started too many years ago. Even better, Dean gets to test a bunch of marathon snacks on Cas as well.

But Dean might regret that decision. "What do you mean you don't like liquorice?"

"That I don't like it. I prefer the caramel," Castiel states innocently.

"Damn, you're just as bad as Sam." Dean hugs the bag of liquorice close to his chest to comfort the candy. The poor thing is so misunderstood and underrated.

Castiel looks at Dean and cocks his head. "Given your protectiveness of the liquorice bag, I think you are much happier keeping it all to yourself."

"Well, no way I'm going to let it go to waste." Dean pops another twizzler in his mouth and demonstratively takes a bite.

Castiel smiles and is evidently about to come up with a comeback when he freezes for a second. The smile drops from his face and is replaced by something resembling a kicked puppy. "I'm sorry, I have to leave."

"No! We have to watch GoT!" Charlie jumps on her seat on the couch.

"I would love to, but Jack needs my help." Castiel looks at Dean for support.

Dean nods. "No problem. GoT can wait. Say hi to the kid for me."

Castiel gets up from his place in the middle of the couch. "Thank you. I will."

"And stay safe," Dean adds.

Castiel nods and with a swoosh of wings, he's gone. Dean still hates flying, but he is damn happy to see that Cas is able to do that again. It just seems right for him.

"That bad, huh?"

Dean turns to Charlie, frowning in lack of understanding. "What do you mean?"

"Didn't you just hear your own sigh of longing when Cas flew off?" Charlie raises a challenging eyebrow.

"I don't know what you're talking about. And I didn't sigh." Dean crosses his arms.

Dean refuses to look at Charlie, but that doesn't stop her from poking at him. "It's okay, you know?"

"What is?" Now, Dean sighs. He doesn't like where this is going.

"To like Cas."

"Of course, I like him. He's my best friend."

"Not what I meant."

"Then what do you mean?" Dean snaps, finally looking at Charlie.

But Charlie isn't frightened that easily. "I mean you like him. As more than a best friend. But you are too scared to realise it."

Dean sits up straighter in the couch. "What the hell, red?"

"Dean, try looking in a mirror whenever Cas is around. You look so goddamn happy. And you keep doing all these super sweet things for him. I mean, he doesn't need food, but you bring out all your best cooking for him. Whenever you have family dinner, Cas is there too. Whenever we hang, you ask if Cas can come – and I don't mind, I like the cutey little angel too – but you seriously can't see what you're doing, can you?"

Dean gapes at her. He can't really deny all those things, but that's stuff people do with their best friends, isn't it? Maybe he's been overdoing it a little, but…

Charlie pushes a bit more. "How would you feel if Cas came to your house tomorrow with a pretty little angel on his arm, introducing them as the love of his life?"

And right there, Dean feels his world shattering. His stomach drops through the floor, maybe all the way down to Earth, and he is lucky that he doesn't really need to breath because he's not sure he could right now.

But that's not possible. He would know, wouldn't he? People don't just go around falling in… and not knowing, right?

"Holy crap."