Supernatural Fanfiction

Even if Cas hadn't trusted the rest of them, he trusted Dean fully, and he knew Dean would look after him. His care and concern the previous evening had demonstrated that. If Castiel hadn't been sure of him before, that had sealed the deal. Suddenly Cas couldn't wait any longer.

He squeezed Dean's hand. "Wake up," Cas whispered. "Wake up, it's Christmas." There was no response.

Cas tried again. "Dean," he called softly. "It's Christmas morning." Dean made a soft groan of protest into the back of Cas's neck, and attempted to snuggle even closer to him.

This called for desperate measures. Cas dipped his head down and gently nibbled one of Dean's fingers. Dean snorted. "Well, that's new," he mumbled, but he didn't sound entirely displeased. Dean yawned loudly and groped around on the nightstand for the bottle of water. He chugged the rest of it down quickly.

"Hey," Cas protested. "Save some for me."

"I'm not saving lukewarm water for you. I'll go get you some cold water in a minute." Dean pulled on Cas's shoulder until he was lying flat on his back, looking up at Dean. "Let me see you," he asked, his face concerned. "Let me look at you, Cas." Dean's eyes examined him carefully for signs of distress. Cas smiled encouragingly; he had never felt less distressed in his life.

"Are you all right, sweetheart?" Dean was being too serious. Cas had to remedy that right away. He would push Dean down on the bed and kiss him 'til he couldn't breathe.

Instead, Cas ran his hand along Dean's jaw. "I'm feeling fine. Really, I am."

With the assurances, the worry melted from Dean's eyes, and he kissed Cas sweetly. "I'm so glad," he murmured against Cas's forehead between kisses. "So glad you're okay. I was afraid it was too much."

"Dean, you were extremely considerate of me last night. You wouldn't have done anything that was too much."

"I never would intentionally. But I just wanted to check in with you this morning, make sure you were fine with everything."

"More than fine, Dean. I'm very happy."

Dean finally smiled. "Good. That's good." He vaulted out of bed and slid on his pajama pants. "I'll be right back. Don't get up yet."

He returned quickly with a glass of orange juice. "Here, Cas. Drink that before you get out of bed. I don't want you to be shaky."

"Thank you, Dean." The orange juice was delicious--Dean always bought the good kind--and Cas was thirstier than he'd realized. "How do you always know?"

Dean sat on the edge of the bed and leaned on an elbow. "Know what, Cas?"

"I mean, you always know. You know what I need, even before I do sometimes."

Dean averted his eyes slightly, as he often did when someone praised him. "I don't. I mean, I know you pretty well and all, but mainly I just try my best to be good to you."

Cas sat up and reached for Dean, pulling him closer. He waited for Dean to look into his eyes. "I want you to know how very grateful I am."

Dean blushed slightly. "Damn, Cas. I'm the lucky one. Now drink your juice."

Cas let Dean hold him as he finished the orange juice, and then for a few moments longer. "Hey, Cas, I'm gonna go take a shower in the other bathroom, and you can have this one, okay? Take your time. We've got all morning." Dean grabbed a towel from the bathroom and headed down the hall, whistling.

Cas sank back down in the bed, blissful. Here was yet another example of Dean's consideration; to give Cas a bit of privacy so that he wouldn't feel overwhelmed. He stretched out lazily, enjoying how soft the sheets felt on his bare skin. He had sometimes enjoyed sleeping naked when he lived alone, but when he was around Dean he'd felt safer when covered up. Maybe that could change now. It would be slow progress, but Cas remembered the feeling of Dean's skin, warm against his back, and felt it would be a good change.

He slid to the side of the warm bed and out into the world, a sharp intake of breath as he felt the icy floor on his feet. He needed warm water on his skin as soon as possible. He stumbled into the bathroom and frantically started the shower, sighing with relief when the water ran over his shivering body. The shower in Dean's bedroom had wonderful water pressure; the one down the hall was not nearly as good, and he felt a tiny stab of regret that Dean was enduring that on his behalf. Maybe sometime soon they'd be able to shower together. Cas liked that thought very much, and he dreamily let it occupy his mind until the water began to get cool, and he remembered he had to wash his hair before it got freezing cold.

When Cas emerged, he could hear Dean rattling about in the kitchen. He opened one of his dresser drawers--a warm pleased flush in his chest knowing that it was his--and pulled out his oldest, softest jeans and t-shirt. He could change into something better before the guests came, but now he just wanted to be comfortable with Dean. He put on some thick socks to keep his feet warm, and slid his feet like a cross-country skiier as he went down the hall.

Dean had heated up the waffle iron, and when he saw Cas his face lit up. "Hey, babe. Watch this. I saw it on Instagram." Dean cracked open a roll of refrigerated cinnamon rolls and squished one into the center of the iron. "Isn't that awesome? Cinnamon roll waffles. And I made some cream cheese glaze to go on top. I know these come with the little tub of glaze but homemade is so much better, right?" He reached a small bowl out to Cas. "Here, taste."

Castiel felt a wave of happiness pass through him. Sometimes it was followed swiftly by despair, but this time the good feeling stayed. He dipped his finger in the bowl and tasted it. "Mmm, Dean. This is heavenly." Dean smiled, his face open and warm. Cas dipped his finger in the bowl again and reached toward Dean this time, gently painting his lips with the glaze. Dean's eyes widened and he instinctively moved a bit closer. "Come here, my love," Cas whispered, and leaned in to kiss the sweetness from Dean's mouth.

"That was nice," Dean mumbled against Cas's lips. They stayed together, nuzzling softly, until the waffle iron chimed. Neither of them wanted to be the last one to get a waffle, so they split the first one, and then two more.

"What do we have to get ready for dinner?" Cas leaned his head on Dean's shoulder.

"Not much, just dessert. We're not quite as formal for Christmas, so I thought brownies. Ellen's baking a ham, and Jo's bringing her famous pasta salad. Bobby's bringing homemade rolls, believe it or not." Bobby had recently decided to master the art of making bread, and after viewing several YouTube videos, his efforts had satisfied even Ellen.

"What about Sam and Jess?"

"Ice cream for the brownies, and Jess's mom made us an extra casserole.  I think we'll be all set."

Sam and Jess burst in about an hour later, bearing bags of gifts and chattering excitedly. "Hey, Cas! There was a package on the doorstep for you," Jess called.

"Really?" Cas extended his hands to take it from her. "I wasn't expecting anything. I guess it was delivered yesterday evening."

"You didn't hear anyone knock?"

"No, we were busy." Cas realized what he'd said, and turned his head frantically to see if Dean had heard. Thankfully, he and Sam were in the living room.

Jess giggled and punched Cas lightly on the arm. "Busy, huh?" She saw Castiel's red cheeks and took pity on him. "Aw, Cas. It's okay. I'm happy for you, that's all. Now let's see what's in the mystery box."

The box had an envelope attached with the logo of an upscale bakery that Cas recognized. His parents had frequented it. Inside the envelope was a card with his father's flowing script.

Dear Castiel,

I hope you have a pleasant Christmas. Perhaps we can talk after the holiday. Hopefully, the pastries will be enjoyable.

Best wishes from your father.

He handed the note to Jess, who was dumbfounded. "Cas...this is weird. I'm sorry! Your father is weird!" They both dissolved into giggles. "I mean, your estranged father sends you a box of pastries for Christmas? That's strange!"

"Well, it's not really strange for him, I suppose. My father's always been a bit distant, a bit removed from most people. I guess that he thinks since a box of baked goods would be a nice gesture for a co-worker or neighbor, it would be appropriate for any occasion." Cas shrugged and looked down at the box.

Jess patted his shoulder sympathetically. "Well, let's see what's in there." Cas cut open the tape and opened the box, digging through layers of tissue paper to extract various white paper pastry boxes. There was an impressive assortment of Christmas cookies, chocolate and cinnamon babka, apple turnovers, and brownies. Jess whistled. "Well, when the man makes a social gesture, he goes all out."

Cas arranged the boxes on the counter and called Dean into the kitchen. "I've made dessert," Cas announced, laughing.

Dean's expression was priceless. "What the hell?"

"From my dad," Cas explained casually, but Dean could see past his boyfriend's outer indifference, and pulled him into an embrace.

"I love you," Dean whispered into Cas's shoulder, and Jess blinked quickly and occupied herself with closing the box lids. Castiel let Dean hold him for a minute, and when he pulled away his eyelashes were wet. Jess made a comforting sound and rushed across the kitchen to wrap her arms around Cas.

"Hey, hey," Cas protested. "I'm fine. Now, let us begin 'that most pleasant of activities, the celebration of Christmas.'"

"You're a sap, but I love you anyway," Dean groaned. "Well, now that we don't have to make brownies, let's open our presents!"

Jess squealed in delight. "Let's go! I'll put on A Christmas Story, and we'll get everything ready."

Earlier in December, Sam had made the suggestion that they limit the amount they spent on presents for each other. They all needed to save money unless they wanted to share the cramped apartment forever, and Sam knew that Dean was often too generous with gifts for his own good.

Jess proposed that they each put in $75, and use it for one present per person. That way, she reasoned, everyone would get one nice gift instead of three crappy ones. The others had agreed, and a flurry of whispering, planning, and hiding of presents ensued.

Dean's gift had been easiest. His cell phone had met with an unfortunate incident at the garage right after Halloween, and the screen was badly cracked. He had stubbornly refused to upgrade, and at one point Cas had to extract a tiny shard of glass from his ear. Sam had a high school buddy who worked at a local cell phone store, and had managed to get a great deal on a newer model. There was some discussion that Dean would be grouchy about learning to use a new phone, but concerns over his safety finally prevailed.

Jess's present had taken until a few days before Christmas to purchase, causing Sam no small amount of anxiety. He had spotted a beautiful coat in the window of her favorite store, and had yearned to buy it for Jess. It was a soft fawn color with embroidered pink flowers. Sam thought she would look like an angel in it. Jess had just finished her student teaching, and was hoping to start applying for teaching jobs soon. Her parents had given her some professional outfits suitable for job interviews, and Sam thought the coat would be the perfect finishing touch. Practical yet whimsical; just like Jess herself.

The only problem was the price. Sam had considered cheating and buying it for her anyway, but as he was the one who had proposed budgeting the gifts, it seemed unfair. Plus, he really did need to save money. He was hoping to buy a far more valuable item for Jess in the near future. Sam kept checking back, hoping for a pre-Christmas sale, until the staff of the store began to recognize him.

The week before Christmas, everyone started to get a little nervous, and Dean demanded that Sam choose another gift. After hearing the argument between the brothers, Cas had emerged from the kitchen, laptop in hand, smiling joyfully. He had found a coupon. It didn't quite bring the price down to $75, but they all agreed to bend the rules in this case and chip in a bit more. The store clerks were delighted that Sam was finally getting to buy the coat, and gift wrapped it for free, with many layers of tissue paper and an elaborate bow.

Cas and Dean had discovered Sam's present while wandering around the mall (Dean had thought it would be good for Cas to get out of the house for a while.) Sam enjoyed listening to music and podcasts, and watching documentaries, but as his tastes differed quite a bit from his brother's, he usually ended up using his laptop and listening through a pair of cheap earbuds. After phoning Jess to consult with her, they ended up buying Sam a pair of nice headphones.

Cas's present had caused the most discussion. Dean wanted to get him something especially nice since he'd had such a difficult December, but Cas didn't seem particularly concerned with material possessions. As long as he had what he needed to live, his sentimental keepsakes, his art supplies, and Dean, he wanted little else. Books were always appreciated, but Dean couldn't think of anything spectacular enough to warrant being Cas's only Christmas present.

Jess finally suggested a gift card to an art supply store. Dean had resisted, thinking a gift card seemed too impersonal; but Jess persisted. She knew from talking with Cas that there were a number of items he needed, but he was making do with what he had instead. He was concerned about contributing to his new household, and was saving money to give Dean toward rent. Jess explained that such a gift would be deeply personal to Cas, because it was what he truly needed and would use to create. She could picture him in the art supply store, carefully pondering each purchase, making the most of the money. It would be meditative and therapeutic for him.

Dean had agreed; but he had secretly planned another present for Cas. His boyfriend was too special to have only a tiny gift card for Christmas.

Of the four of them, only Jess had experienced a traditional happy Christmas morning, so the ritual of present opening meant more to them than most. Instead of tearing off the gift wrap, each of them carefully undid each piece of tape and unfolded the paper reverently. The boys insisted that Jess go first; Cas and Dean were afraid that Sam would explode if he had to wait much longer for her to see the wondrous coat. Jess's reaction did not disappoint. She gasped in surprise and then teared up. She had seen that very coat while window shopping a few weeks before and had visited it a few times since, but she never would have dreamed of telling Sam she wanted it. She hugged each one of the boys and sniffled a heartfelt thanks, ending with an embrace with Sam lasting so long that Dean complained it was "like a friggin Hallmark movie up in here." Jess modeled the coat while Sam took several pictures, and she refused to take it off for a while.

Dean was pleased with his new phone, and protested that he was not nearly as technophobic as Sam claimed he was. Directly afterward he was forced to ask Sam how to turn on the phone, but being as it was Christmas Sam ignored the opportunity for mocking his brother. They made a date to go to the cell phone store the next day and activate it. Dean's favorite thing about his gift was not the lack of broken glass, but that it would now be much easier to text Cas.

Sam was so excited about his headphones that he immediately plugged them into his laptop and began listening to his favorite album. The others indulged him for two songs before Jess pried them off his head so that they could watch Cas open his present.

Dean's heart was in his throat as Cas unwrapped the small box. If Cas looked disappointed, he would probably have promised to buy him every book in Singer's bookstore to make up for it. He fidgeted as Cas carefully folded the wrapping paper and placed it on the coffee table--was he going to save it for next year or something?

It turned out that Cas was enchanted by the idea of picking out his own gift. He was like a small child given ten bucks and promised a trip to the dollar store. "This is so very thoughtful!" he exclaimed, and entered an intense discussion with Jess about what would be best to buy. Dean breathed a sigh of relief and leaned his head on Cas's shoulder.

"So you really like it?" Dean whispered in his ear.

"I love it! I've never gotten a gift card before. And it's to my favorite store! Maybe I can go tomorrow. They might be having an after-Christmas sale."

"I have something else for you, but it's for later. It's just from me."

Cas gave him a quick kiss. "I have something else for you, too."

"You shouldn't have..." Dean began, but Cas shushed him.

"Did you really think I'd let you get only a phone for Christmas? Useful, but so impersonal. And after you got me such a fun present."

Dean grinned and leaned back on the couch to watch his little family. Jess was stroking the embroidered flowers on her new coat, and Sam was reading the instruction manual for the headphones. Cas stowed his wrapping paper in one of his dresser drawers. "I might use it for a mixed-media piece," he explained to Dean happily.

Jess checked her watch. "I'd better put the casserole in. The others will be here in an hour, and it'll need to cool off a bit before we eat."

Cas found a serving platter to arrange the pastries on, and stacked the boxes on top of it. He wanted everything to be ready. Cas had never met Ellen's daughter, Jo, and while Dean spoke fondly of her, Cas was never sure how people would respond to him. Sam had described Jo as sassy, and that worried Cas a bit.  Jo sounded very outgoing, and she was brilliant. Sam had encouraged her to apply to Stanford, and she was studying engineering there. Cas was sure they'd have little in common.

Bobby and the Harvelle ladies arrived exactly fifteen minutes early. "I know it's not polite to show up so early, but he insisted," Ellen told them, while giving her husband a look.

"I couldn't sit around any longer," Bobby grumbled. "The bread was done, was I supposed to let it get cold?"

"It looks wonderful, Bobby," Jess scooped the fragrant bread basket out of his hands and placed it on the kitchen counter. "Everything is pretty much done anyway, we can just go ahead and get started."

"I'll put in Christmas Vacation," Cas heard Dean say. Apparently the movie was a tradition during Christmas dinner.

"Not so fast, Dean! You have to introduce me to your new sweetheart."

"God, Jo! His name is Cas."

"Oh, Cassie! Where are you?"

Cas froze. There were footsteps coming quickly toward the kitchen. A smiling blonde girl burst into the room, looking him up and down. The girl whistled. "Damn, you done good, Dean! He's cute!"

Cas opened and closed his mouth, but he couldn't make a sound. Dean quickly followed and slid an arm around Cas's shoulders. "Babe, my apologies on Jo's behalf. She's loved torturing me since we were kids. Jo, this is my boyfriend, Castiel. You can call him Cas if he allows it, which he may not after that introduction."

Cas tried to collect himself, and extended a barely trembling hand towards Jo. "It's very nice to finally meet you," he managed.

Jo took his hand in a strong grip and studied him. "Hmm. I think you'll do, Cas." She leaned in and murmured into his ear. "But if you ever hurt Dean, I'll cut off one of your ears."

Dean drew Cas away, wrapping his arms around him protectively. "Dammit, Jo! Try to behave like a civilized person for once." He gave Cas an apologetic look. "Jo's not as much of a wolverine as she comes off at first, I promise."

"Watch yourself, Dean. They wouldn't let me take my knife collection to Stanford, so they're all still in town." She winked at Cas, who was beginning to be charmed in spite of himself.

"If you're finished terrifying the poor boy, Jo, let's start setting out the food." Ellen entered the kitchen with a large, foil-covered serving platter. "Cas, where should I put the ham?"

"Um. Hold on, let me get a trivet and we can put it here on the counter."

"He calls it a trivet!" Jo exclaimed. "I love you already, Cas."

Cas smiled shyly and took the heavy dish from Ellen. "The plates and silverware are right here, so we can get started anytime."

"Let's get in line first, Cas. If Sasquatch gets to the food before us, there may not be any left." Jo's pasta salad looked wonderful, and Bobby's homemade bread was impossibly light, with a crispy crust. The casserole from Jess's mom was bubbling hot and cheesy. It was a far cry from Cas's childhood Christmas dinners, which had been overly formal and featured bland food.

Jo insisted that Cas sit next to her on the sofa, and Cas saved a seat for Dean on his other side. Jo was talkative, but Cas found that he didn't mind. She told Sam a few stories about what was happening at Stanford, but then turned the conversation to everyone else; asking Dean about the garage and Jess about her upcoming job interviews.

Jo seemed particularly fascinated with Castiel's artistic talents, and peppered him with questions about what he liked to paint, how long it took to finish a painting, and how much money he got for selling one. (Ellen frowned at her after that question, and Jo changed the subject.)

Cas had consumed a few glasses of wine with his meal, and he found himself waxing poetic about the importance of lighting in his portraits. To his surprise, Jo paid close attention, and even Bobby and Ellen seemed interested. Dean set his empty plate aside and rested his hand on Cas's knee as he talked. It was all very comfortable and Cas felt safe.

Dean hadn't told his boyfriend that they usually exchanged small gifts with the Singer-Harvelle clan. He'd wanted to spare Cas the additional stress of thinking that he had to buy presents for people he didn't know very well. So Cas was shocked when Ellen presented all of them with lumpy wrapped packages containing socks. Jess's were cute trouser socks to go with her interview outfits.

Cas was touched that Ellen had included him, and gave her a shy smile. "I always buy the boys socks for Christmas," she told him. "Not very exciting, but I know they'll be useful."

"My grandmother always gave us socks," Cas said quietly. "She always said, 'You'll appreciate these later on. When there's no one left to buy you socks, then you'll know you've gotten old.'"

Ellen laughed. "I'd like to have met your grandmother, Cas. She sounds like a trip."

Sam and Dean had bought Bobby a pair of work gloves and a cookbook of bread recipes. Ellen received a shaker of fancy cinnamon to use for her baking, and Jo got a Starbucks gift card. "Caffeine for your all-nighters," Sam told her, smiling.

Jo had brought everyone a Stanford mug, and Bobby handed out envelopes without comment. "Bobby!" Dean held up the $100 bill that his envelope contained. "I can't take this. It's too much." Sam and Jess joined the protest, trying to hand Bobby their money.

"Shut up and take the money, idgits. You'll find a good use for it."

Cas's eyes were wide. "I see why you gave money to everyone else, but I'm not even family. It's not right for me to take this."

"Hell, son, strictly speaking, none of us are family except for Sam and Dean, and Jo and Ellen here. By all rights, I should be an old drunk living alone by now. But somehow I was lucky enough to end up with all you folks. And if I wanna give you money I reckon I can. You're all good kids, trying to make a good life for yourselves, and if you don't deserve a break every now and then, who does?"

This was a long speech for Bobby, and he ducked his head bashfully and took a drink of his beer. There was a flurry of grateful thanks, which he waved off. "Now when's dessert? Those fancy brownies look mighty good."

The Harvelle-Singer clan stayed long enough that they all had seconds of the pastries and ice cream, and everyone pitched in to wash dishes. Dean and Jess packed up the leftovers as Cas saw their visitors to the door. He was surprised when Jo suddenly pulled him into a hug.

"Sorry if that's too touchy-feely for you, Cas, but I'm a hugger," Jo giggled. "Listen, man, I just wanted to say that you seem really cool, and I, you know, approve. You seem like you'll be good for Dean."

"Thank you, Jo. I enjoyed meeting you."

Jo started to follow Bobby and Ellen down the hall, then stopped to whisper to Cas. "The knife thing is still an option if you hurt him, though."

Cas was tipsy enough that he found this hilarious. He closed the door behind them and joined Dean in the kitchen. "I want to see my present now," he whispered in Dean's ear as he wrapped his arms around him from behind.

"Whoa, there, Cas. It's not that kind of present." Dean laughed, and Cas could feel the vibrations in his chest.

"I don't care what it is. It's from you." Cas rubbed his face on Dean's back. "And I can't wait to see if you like yours."

Dean slid around in Cas's grasp to face him, and kissed his forehead. "All right, baby. Let's go to our room." He took Cas's hand and pulled him along. They bid good night to Sam and Jess, who were cuddling on the couch, and entered their little sanctuary.

"So what did you think of Jo?"

"She's lovely," Cas told him earnestly. "And completely terrifying."

Dean chuckled. "That's the best description of Jo I've ever heard."

Cas had consumed a fair amount of wine, and he felt nearly giddy. He scrunched down to the floor and scooted his torso under the bed.

Dean was cracking up. "Cas! What are you doing?"

Cas emerged with a grin and a wrapped gift. "I hid your present under the bed."

Dean turned to rummage through the dresser. "I hid yours in my sock drawer."

Cas clapped his hands. "Me first!"

Dean flopped down onto the bed and held out a small box. He tried to look casual as Cas peeled off the paper, but didn't quite succeed.

The box contained a braided leather bracelet similar to one that Dean often wore, except that the leather was a slightly lighter color. It had a blue stone bead in the center and a few textured silver beads surrounding it. "Dean! I love it! It's like yours!" Cas slipped it on his wrist and admired it. "Did you have it made for me?"

"I did." Dean reached out and brushed his fingers over Cas's bracelet. "There's a story behind it, but it's a little heavy for Christmas Day. I'll tell it to you sometime, okay?"

Cas became very serious. "I would like to hear it now, Dean. Please?"

Dean huffed out a sigh. "All right, babe." He twined his fingers through Cas's. "I had mine made a few years ago. I was dating a girl named Cassie..."

"Wait, what?" Cas started giggling. "You dated a Cassie?"

"Shut up! What can I say, I have a type." Dean gave him a mock glare. "Anyway. Cassie made jewelry, so I had her make it for me. The blue beads are from a bracelet of my mom's." He hesitated, and Cas nodded encouragingly. "After my mom died, my dad started drinking pretty much right away. He was drunk at the funeral. I had to get Sam ready. I knew my mom would have been embarrassed if Sam and I didn't look decent in church. The day after the funeral, Dad put a lock on the door of their bedroom. He never went in there again that I know of; he started sleeping on the couch." Dean rolled his eyes. "Well, passing out on the couch."

Cas rubbed the back of Dean's hand with his thumb as he continued. "I didn't have anything of my mom's. Nothing to remember her by. Then one day, I found one of her bracelets on top of the bathroom cabinet. It wasn't valuable, or her favorite, or anything like that. But it was something, so I hid it in my room and kept it. And when I met Cassie, I had her make this. It's like having a little bit of my mom with me. Like she's watching over me." Dean smiled shyly at Cas. "And now, it's like she's watching over you too."

Cas clutched Dean's hand, and reached for his other one. "Dean. This is the best gift I've ever received. I understand how much this means to you. I will treasure it forever." He held his wrist next to Dean's to compare the bracelets. "The workmanship is very similar. Did Cassie make this one, too?"

Dean turned a little red. "Yeah, she did. I wasn't gonna mention that."

Cas grinned at him. "It's all right, Dean. I'm not jealous. I know you love me."

"Yeah, Cassie and I weren't like that, anyway. We were never serious. It didn't take long for us to figure out we were better off as friends. I had lost touch with her over the years, but Jess told me that she was selling her jewelry in a boutique downtown, so I got in touch with her that way. Asked her if she'd be up for a commission. She mostly works with metals now, but when I told her it was for my boyfriend, she though it was romantic."

Cas leaned in and kissed Dean. "It is. Thank you so much, Dean."

"You're welcome, baby. Merry Christmas."

"Now open yours!" Cas bounced up and down on the bed excitedly. "I want to see if you like it."

"Of course I'll like it, it's from you." Dean unwrapped the large, flat present to find a portfolio folder. "Cas! It's something you made, isn't it?" He carefully opened the porfolio and inhaled sharply.

Dean's gift was a sketch of Sam and Dean as children. Dean was 9 or 10, Sam 4 or 5, and they were sitting on the front step of Bobby's old house. Dean's arm was slung around Sam's shoulders, and they were both smiling. As with all of Cas's artwork, the two brothers looked vibrant and alive.

"Fuck," Dean whispered. "Oh, fuck."

Cas bit his lip nervously. "Is it okay? I know you don't have many pictures of you and Sam from your childhood, and..."

"And none of us together," Dean whispered. "I mean, I'm sure there are some from when Sam was a baby, but I don't have them, and none of us after that. Shit, Cas. This is..." Dean was quiet for a minute. "This is something that I never thought I'd have."

Cas crept up quietly beside Dean and laid his head on Dean's shoulder. "I called Bobby," he murmured. "He let me borrow some snapshots he took of you and Sam. He didn't have any of you together, either, so I kind of improvised. I liked how it turned out."

"It's beautiful, Cas. You're amazing. I should go out there right now and show it to Sam and Jess, but all I want to do stay right here with you. Let's just...let's just get ready for bed as fast as humanly possible, and then we'll lay down together."

"Are you saying you want to cuddle?"

"Damn it, Cas. Yes, I want to cuddle with you, okay? Will you prop the drawing up on the dresser so it won't fall over? I want to be able to see it."

"I hate that I didn't have time to get it framed."

"I don't. I mean, of course I'll have it framed, but this way I can see the pencil strokes better. I can touch it. It's more real that way. I'm glad I got to see it like this first." Dean tapped the drawing, very lightly, with a finger. "Jesus, there's so much detail. It's just like being there. It must've taken you so much time."

"You've been so good to me lately. I wanted to make something special for you."

Dean swatted Cas gently on the thigh. "C'mon, man. Pajamas. I want to cuddle you properly."

He didn't have to tell Cas twice, and in record time they were nestled together in bed. "Mmm, s'good, Cas. Hey, you're still wearing your bracelet."

"Mmm-hmm. I may never take it off."

"I'm glad you're here with us for Christmas. You kinda make the family complete."

"It's the best Christmas I've ever had."

"Yeah, me too." Dean rubbed his hand up and down Cas's arm. "Thank you, Cas."

"Thank you, Dean. For everything. I feel so safe with you."

"You are, babe. Always. Now go to sleep. Tomorrow I'm gonna take you to the art supply store and watch you shop."

"Mmm. That sounds really hot." Cas's eyes were closed, but he was smiling.

"Actually, it does sound kinda hot. Don't judge me." Dean placed little kisses up and down Cas's neck.

"Love you a lot."

"Love you more."

Now it slowly dawned on him that today would likely be pleasant from start to finish. While his new family wasn’t perfect, he would not have to sit on the edge of the festivities, waiting nervously for someone to make an insulting remark about him. Unlike his parents, Bobby and Ellen would probably not start screaming at each other during dinner. No, today there would be presents and dinner and laughter, and Cas didn’t have to worry about any of it.

Even if Cas hadn’t trusted the rest of them, he trusted Dean fully, and he knew Dean would look after him. His care and concern the previous evening had demonstrated that. If Castiel hadn’t been sure of him before, that had sealed the deal. Suddenly Cas couldn’t wait any longer.

He squeezed Dean’s hand. “Wake up,” Cas whispered. “Wake up, it’s Christmas.” There was no response.

Cas tried again. “Dean,” he called softly. “It’s Christmas morning.” Dean made a soft groan of protest into the back of Cas’s neck, and attempted to snuggle even closer to him.

This called for desperate measures. Cas dipped his head down and gently nibbled one of Dean’s fingers. Dean snorted. “Well, that’s new,” he mumbled, but he didn’t sound entirely displeased. Dean yawned loudly and groped around on the nightstand for the bottle of water. He chugged the rest of it down quickly.

“Hey,” Cas protested. “Save some for me.”

“I’m not saving lukewarm water for you. I’ll go get you some cold water in a minute.” Dean pulled on Cas’s shoulder until he was lying flat on his back, looking up at Dean. “Let me see you,” he asked, his face concerned. “Let me look at you, Cas.” Dean’s eyes examined him carefully for signs of distress. Cas smiled encouragingly; he had never felt less distressed in his life.

“Are you all right, sweetheart?” Dean was being too serious. Cas had to remedy that right away. He would push Dean down on the bed and kiss him ‘til he couldn’t breathe.

Instead, Cas ran his hand along Dean’s jaw. “I’m feeling fine. Really, I am.”

With the assurances, the worry melted from Dean’s eyes, and he kissed Cas sweetly. “I’m so glad,” he murmured against Cas’s forehead between kisses. “So glad you’re okay. I was afraid it was too much.”

“Dean, you were extremely considerate of me last night. You wouldn’t have done anything that was too much.”

“I never would intentionally. But I just wanted to check in with you this morning, make sure you were fine with everything.”

“More than fine, Dean. I’m very happy.”

Dean finally smiled. “Good. That’s good.” He vaulted out of bed and slid on his pajama pants. “I’ll be right back. Don’t get up yet.”

He returned quickly with a glass of orange juice. “Here, Cas. Drink that before you get out of bed. I don’t want you to be shaky.”

“Thank you, Dean.” The orange juice was delicious–Dean always bought the good kind–and Cas was thirstier than he’d realized. “How do you always know?”

Dean sat on the edge of the bed and leaned on an elbow. “Know what, Cas?”

“I mean, you always know. You know what I need, even before I do sometimes.”

Dean averted his eyes slightly, as he often did when someone praised him. “I don’t. I mean, I know you pretty well and all, but mainly I just try my best to be good to you.”

Cas sat up and reached for Dean, pulling him closer. He waited for Dean to look into his eyes. “I want you to know how very grateful I am.”

Dean blushed slightly. “Damn, Cas. I’m the lucky one. Now drink your juice.”

Cas let Dean hold him as he finished the orange juice, and then for a few moments longer. “Hey, Cas, I’m gonna go take a shower in the other bathroom, and you can have this one, okay? Take your time. We’ve got all morning.” Dean grabbed a towel from the bathroom and headed down the hall, whistling.

Cas sank back down in the bed, blissful. Here was yet another example of Dean’s consideration; to give Cas a bit of privacy so that he wouldn’t feel overwhelmed. He stretched out lazily, enjoying how soft the sheets felt on his bare skin. He had sometimes enjoyed sleeping naked when he lived alone, but when he was around Dean he’d felt safer when covered up. Maybe that could change now. It would be slow progress, but Cas remembered the feeling of Dean’s skin, warm against his back, and felt it would be a good change.

He slid to the side of the warm bed and out into the world, a sharp intake of breath as he felt the icy floor on his feet. He needed warm water on his skin as soon as possible. He stumbled into the bathroom and frantically started the shower, sighing with relief when the water ran over his shivering body. The shower in Dean’s bedroom had wonderful water pressure; the one down the hall was not nearly as good, and he felt a tiny stab of regret that Dean was enduring that on his behalf. Maybe sometime soon they’d be able to shower together. Cas liked that thought very much, and he dreamily let it occupy his mind until the water began to get cool, and he remembered he had to wash his hair before it got freezing cold.

When Cas emerged, he could hear Dean rattling about in the kitchen. He opened one of his dresser drawers–a warm pleased flush in his chest knowing that it was his–and pulled out his oldest, softest jeans and t-shirt. He could change into something better before the guests came, but now he just wanted to be comfortable with Dean. He put on some thick socks to keep his feet warm, and slid his feet like a cross-country skiier as he went down the hall.

Dean had heated up the waffle iron, and when he saw Cas his face lit up. “Hey, babe. Watch this. I saw it on Instagram.” Dean cracked open a roll of refrigerated cinnamon rolls and squished one into the center of the iron. “Isn’t that awesome? Cinnamon roll waffles. And I made some cream cheese glaze to go on top. I know these come with the little tub of glaze but homemade is so much better, right?” He reached a small bowl out to Cas. “Here, taste.”

Castiel felt a wave of happiness pass through him. Sometimes it was followed swiftly by despair, but this time the good feeling stayed. He dipped his finger in the bowl and tasted it. “Mmm, Dean. This is heavenly.” Dean smiled, his face open and warm. Cas dipped his finger in the bowl again and reached toward Dean this time, gently painting his lips with the glaze. Dean’s eyes widened and he instinctively moved a bit closer. “Come here, my love,” Cas whispered, and leaned in to kiss the sweetness from Dean’s mouth.

“That was nice,” Dean mumbled against Cas’s lips. They stayed together, nuzzling softly, until the waffle iron chimed. Neither of them wanted to be the last one to get a waffle, so they split the first one, and then two more.

“What do we have to get ready for dinner?” Cas leaned his head on Dean’s shoulder.

“Not much, just dessert. We’re not quite as formal for Christmas, so I thought brownies. Ellen’s baking a ham, and Jo’s bringing her famous pasta salad. Bobby’s bringing homemade rolls, believe it or not.” Bobby had recently decided to master the art of making bread, and after viewing several YouTube videos, his efforts had satisfied even Ellen.

“What about Sam and Jess?”

“Ice cream for the brownies, and Jess’s mom made us an extra casserole.  I think we’ll be all set.”

Sam and Jess burst in about an hour later, bearing bags of gifts and chattering excitedly. “Hey, Cas! There was a package on the doorstep for you,” Jess called.

“Really?” Cas extended his hands to take it from her. “I wasn’t expecting anything. I guess it was delivered yesterday evening.”

“You didn’t hear anyone knock?”

“No, we were busy.” Cas realized what he’d said, and turned his head frantically to see if Dean had heard. Thankfully, he and Sam were in the living room.

Jess giggled and punched Cas lightly on the arm. “Busy, huh?” She saw Castiel’s red cheeks and took pity on him. “Aw, Cas. It’s okay. I’m happy for you, that’s all. Now let’s see what’s in the mystery box.”

The box had an envelope attached with the logo of an upscale bakery that Cas recognized. His parents had frequented it. Inside the envelope was a card with his father’s flowing script.

Dear Castiel,

I hope you have a pleasant Christmas. Perhaps we can talk after the holiday. Hopefully, the pastries will be enjoyable.

Best wishes from your father.

He handed the note to Jess, who was dumbfounded. “Cas…this is weird. I’m sorry! Your father is weird!” They both dissolved into giggles. “I mean, your estranged father sends you a box of pastries for Christmas? That’s strange!”

“Well, it’s not really strange for him, I suppose. My father’s always been a bit distant, a bit removed from most people. I guess that he thinks since a box of baked goods would be a nice gesture for a co-worker or neighbor, it would be appropriate for any occasion.” Cas shrugged and looked down at the box.

Jess patted his shoulder sympathetically. “Well, let’s see what’s in there.” Cas cut open the tape and opened the box, digging through layers of tissue paper to extract various white paper pastry boxes. There was an impressive assortment of Christmas cookies, chocolate and cinnamon babka, apple turnovers, and brownies. Jess whistled. “Well, when the man makes a social gesture, he goes all out.”

Cas arranged the boxes on the counter and called Dean into the kitchen. “I’ve made dessert,” Cas announced, laughing.

Dean’s expression was priceless. “What the hell?”

“From my dad,” Cas explained casually, but Dean could see past his boyfriend’s outer indifference, and pulled him into an embrace.

“I love you,” Dean whispered into Cas’s shoulder, and Jess blinked quickly and occupied herself with closing the box lids. Castiel let Dean hold him for a minute, and when he pulled away his eyelashes were wet. Jess made a comforting sound and rushed across the kitchen to wrap her arms around Cas.

“Hey, hey,” Cas protested. “I’m fine. Now, let us begin 'that most pleasant of activities, the celebration of Christmas.’”

“You’re a sap, but I love you anyway,” Dean groaned. “Well, now that we don’t have to make brownies, let’s open our presents!”

Jess squealed in delight. “Let’s go! I’ll put on A Christmas Story, and we’ll get everything ready.”