A week later, they had settled into a routine. Everyone else seemed well adjusted, but Dean felt like they should slow down a bit.

•••

Cas stared into the jewelry case thoughtfully.

“Excuse me sir, would you like some assistance?” One of the clerks asked, flashing him a smile from over the case

“Um, yes. I would like to purchase a ring, please. I’m planning on proposing.” Cas replied, smiling back at the woman.

“Lovely! I’m sure she’s a very lucky woman!”

“He’s not a woman.” He told her.

“Oh, my apologies! He’s a lucky man. The men’s selection is over here.” She gestured for him to follow her.

“What price range are we working with?”

“Do you have anything for $75-100?”

She thought for a moment.

“Yes, we do have a few things, but nothing fancy. How do you like those?” She asked, pointing at two silvery bands with small engravings on them.

“They’re perfect. How much for the set?” Cas’ eyes shone.

“For you? Nothing. Consider it a wedding gift, Castiel.”

Cas looked up, expression guarded.

“Who are you?”

“My name is Elaniel, I never got to officially meet you in heaven, but you are my hero. My shift ends soon, would you mind getting lunch with me? I would love to hear about your adventures. Please?”

“I really need to get back home soon, but if you would like to do it another time, I would be happy to tell you some stories.” He stood and smiled politely.

“That would be amazing! Thank you! I’ll go get the boxes for the rings.”

•••

“Gabriel? Can we talk?” Sam said, voice shaking slightly, betraying him.

Gabriel looked up from his burger with a worried expression.

“Yeah, sure Samshine. Is everything ok?”

“Not really,” Sam cleared his throat, “I haven’t really had the best track record when it comes to relationships and I’m worried that the future won’t be any different. I don’t think we should-”

“So what, Sam? I knew what I was getting myself into when I aske-”

“I wasn’t saying you didn’t know what you were getting into, but I don’t think we can be together. I-I don’t want you to get hurt or worse, like everyone else in my life.”

“Sam-”

“Please just go.”

“Fine.” Gabriel spat, standing up and walking away. He turned back around angrily.

“Where is this coming from, Sam?”

“I told you! Everyone else in my life is dead!”

Angry tears slipped down Sam’s face as he realized people were staring.

“Can I still stay with yo- at your bunker?”

Sam nodded, tears still streaming down his face.

“Thank you.” Gabriel said quietly, disappearing.