AA

Dean leaned against the Impala with a smug grin, watching Castiel’s eyes follow as you wandered across the motel parking lot. “You know,” Dean said, “for someone who keeps saying they’re just another hunter, you sure spend a lot of time watching her.” Castiel looked over, genuinely puzzled. “I am ensuring their safety.” Sam couldn’t help but smile. “Cas… you’ve healed her before either of us, answered every one of her prayers immediately, and somehow always end up standing next to her.” “She requires protection.” Dean laughed. “No, buddy. She doesn’t require your protection. You’re just in love with with.” Castiel fell silent. Love? The thought had never crossed his mind. Everything he had done—every lingering glance, every quiet act of care, every instinct to put you first—had simply felt… natural. Before he could question it further, the motel room door opened. You stepped outside, completely unaware that, for the first time in his existence, Castiel was beginning to wonder if the strange pull he felt toward you was something far more human than he had ever imagined.