Clipped Wings

[NINETEEN] What You Deserve

"Thank you so much for coming and for all the presents, you really didn't need to do that," Dean thanked, helping Ellen pull on her jacket.

"I know I didn't. I don't know why I do," Ellen stated, zipping up her jacket. Dean rolled his eyes and handed her the last container of left overs.

Ellen smiled and used her free hand to give Dean a pinch on the cheek. "Ah, I know why I do. I'm just messing with ya."

Dean grinned, pulling Ellen into a half hug. "Thank you again, have a safe drive."

"I don't know why you bother with Dean, Cas is the new prize," Jo chipped in, bumping into Dean on her way to the door.

Cas emerged from the kitchen, a damp towel in hand. "I can assure you I am no prize chicken."

Ellen and Jo laughed, causing Cas to smile at the floor timidly. Ellen turned to leave the apartment still laughing and mumbling about her arms getting sore from carrying containers.

"See ya later, Jo." Dean pulled her into a tight hug, rolling his eyes but appreciating her sass.

"Yeah, yeah. I'll see you at work tomorrow. Don't stay up too late tonight," Jo commented, offering a wink and slipping out the door with Ellen.

Cas's attention snapped to Dean. He lifted his chin up and gave him a sly smile.

"Nuh uh, don't gimme that look," Dean warned, sliding his way into the kitchen next to Cas. "We have to clean up the kitchen yet."

Cas rolled his eyes but nodded. "Of course, Dean."

Dean gave him a giddy smile and proceeded to box up the remaining pie and stuffing for Sam and Jess.

Sam emerged from the bathroom and patted his full belly. "I'm so full I might explode."

"I would prefer if you exploded outside of the apartment, please," Cas suggested, peeking his head out from the kitchen.

Jess finished gathering boxes in the living room set them on the floor beside the door. She walked up behind Sam and wrapped her arms around him. "You'll be sleeping good tonight."

"Oh, we'll see about that," Sam teased, turning around and placing a kiss on Jess's forehead. Jess giggled and leaned into Sam's touch.

"Alright, enough you two," Dean said, smiling to himself. It was nice to see Sam happy and worry free.

Jess smiled warmly at Dean and handed Sam the boxes she brought over from the other room.

"Awww, why do I have to hold the boxes?" Sam whined, giving Jess his puppy dog eyes.

"Because you're nice and strong," Jess said, giving him a small wink before walking over to Dean in the kitchen.

Sam gave himself an approving smile and flexed for his girl. His ego was as tall as he was now.

"It was a pleasure having Christmas here, thank you for the meal," Jess thanked Dean and Cas. She leaned in and gave Dean a tight hug. Jess watched Cas give her a bright smile as he dried off silverware.

"He's a keeper," Jess whispered in Dean's ear, returning the smile to Cas.

Dean squeezed her tight and pulled away, his eyes shinning. "Thank you, Jess. You're always welcome here."

"Now, what about me?" Sam asked, peeking his head into the kitchen.

Jess and Dean laughed, causing Sam to smile wide. Dean heard Cas chuckling behind him.

"Yeah, I suppose you're welcome too— if you don't drink all the good beer!" Dean exclaimed, pointing an accusing finger at the tall, brown haired moose.

Sam laughed lightly and set the stack of boxes on the kitchen counter. He walked up to his brother and scooped him up in a tight hug. Dean suddenly couldn't breathe from impact, but he couldn't have asked for anything better.

"Little brother approves," Sam mumbled when he pulled away from Dean.

Dean tilted his head, his eyes wide. "He... approves?"

Sam rolled his eyes and nodded. "Yes. I... approve of... Cas. You're right, Dean, he's nothing like Jay. He seems like a good guy. Someone who's right for you— who'll treat you right."

Dean's heart melted. He swore he felt puzzle pieces fitting into place. He needed to hear that. He needed to hear those words his whole life and he didn't even know it until now.

"Thank you... Sam. Thank you so much," Dean said quietly. He looked up at his younger brother with glossy eyes.

Sam gave Dean a soft smile. Sam meant every word he said to him. Dean deserved happiness.

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Those brotherly moments. <3

!Endless support for all!
*showers you in flowers and rainbows*