Chapter Text
Chapter 1. Working Vacation
Angel's Landing is an upscale resort in the heart of scenic route 12 which runs through the mighty red cliffs and canyons of Utah's Grand Staircase and Bryce Canyon. While the canyons are not as large as the Grand Canyon, only 250 miles away, it is arguably more beautiful and breath taking. The resort is designed for families and work retreats alike, with panoramic views of the Grand Staircase. Trips from the resort are mere minutes down the road and lead to hiking trails that can take amateurs and professional hikers alike.
As Castiel researched vacation retreats for small business groups, the deep red cliffs brought out a longing in him. It was his job, appointed by Luc, to make the accommodations.
Something in the lonely grandeur called to him. So it was done. The board of directors, including his father, Luc, Raphael, Gabriel and himself and the other seven (not related) board members. This would be board members only. No spouses or children. Not that Castiel had either.
The retreat was geared to improve board member bonding. With guided hikes reserved and horse trail riding, the vacation was bound to be beautiful. Even if his counterparts were miserable, malicious bastards.
"This is so quaint," Luc grinned, eyes twinkling.
Castiel grinned tightly at him in the rear view mirror as he steered the rental over the windy highway. He knew better than to take the compliment for what it was. Luc was the oldest Novak child. He was their father's favorite. His approval of matters influenced their father greatly. And if Luc did not approve of this trip, there would be hell to pay.
"It will be less touristy than the Grand Canyon," Castiel said. "And the retreat's meeting room is beautiful."
"Mmm," Luc nodded, grin still wide.
Castiel sighed. There was little he could do now. Either they would hate it or they would like it and just bitch anyway.
The two vans they had rented pulled into a lane off route 12, passing under a large iron gateway with a CW in the center of the arch. They passed pastures dotted with rocky scrub brush and fields of grazing cattle. All around them, red cliffs could be seen with smooth steps and varying layers of earth displayed for all to see.
"This is beautiful," Gabe said from beside him.
Castiel gave his closest brother a sideways grin. Gabe was always there for him. Always backing him up. At least when he was around. Most of the time he was off running another branch of their father's insurance company. Castiel was in the trenches, so to speak, while his other two brothers rarely left their lofty board member perches.
"I hate retreats," Raphael intoned, deep and droll. "Castiel, this better be worth our time."
Castiel followed a sign reading 'Angel's Landing'. As the van crested a hill, a sweeping resort came into view. It was small in comparison to the lush resorts they had used the past two years.
"Ah yes. Quaint," Luc said from the back seat, less amusement in his voice than before.
"This place does have electricity, doesn't it?" Raphael glowered.
"Of course," Castiel said, pulling the van up to the entrance area. He got out of the car, thankful for the breathing room. He pulled his attaché case from the back and went inside to check in.
The building was made of deep reddish-brown ponderosa pine logs and grey, granite stones. It looked rustic as if it belonged in the rugged landscape, and yet clean lines and sweeping spaces made it look modern.
He pulled the door open, noting the Native American tile and stone sculpture that covered a two-story wall. A fireplace sat at the bottom, empty with the summer heat, but looking warm and inviting. The stone and tile sculpture that covered the rest of the wall was of a spirit horse with an angelic looking warrior at a cliff's edge, looking down upon a canyon.
Castiel froze, looking at the warrior's face. Proud. Determined. Firm. And yet kind. It was marvelous.
"Impressive, isn't it?" Asked a balding man from behind the counter.
"Yes," Castiel marveled. He tore his eyes from the artwork and headed straight ahead for the counter.
"I'm checking in for the Novak group."
The man grinned slightly and nodded.
Castiel would not describe him as a warm person. He seemed stern.
They got through the check in steps easily, Castiel giving him his work credit card, footing the entire bill to their insurance company.
A kind looking older woman came in from a door behind the counter.
"Thank you for watching the desk for me Samuel," she said, patting his shoulder.
"Any time, Deana." His grin for her was warmer. "This is Castiel Novak, checking in with the group of 12."
"Wonderful!" Deana grinned, turning her green eyes on him. "We love having groups. Did you reserve any trail rides or hikes?"
"I did," Castiel smiled. She made him feel welcome and at ease.
"We are set for a trail ride tomorrow morning with Angel's Landing Stables and a hike to the Petrified Forest. The next day we are taking a guided tour through Bryce Canyon."
"Wonderful!" She came around the desk, putting her hand gently on his shoulder. "The board room is at your disposal for the three days your group is here."
Castiel followed her beyond the stone art into double doors that opened into a room with a long, all glass wall overlooking a panoramic view.
"Wow!" Castiel gasped. "I saw the pictures," he said, walking to the windowed wall, "but this is...stunning." Canyon stretched further in either direction than he could see. The dipping crests rolled and jutted in a frozen chaos that pulled his eyes from one rocky formation to another.
He turned to Deana, "Thank you, this is so lovely."
She beamed, continued, showing him their other amenities.
Castiel returned to the van and escorted the other eleven to their rooms, giving each a copy of their itinerary, which they all had electronically weeks ago, but with service being spotty in the remote location, he wanted to be sure everyone knew when to be where.
First on the agenda was a quarterly meeting to discuss profits and losses. Then dinner at the resort. Castiel knew most would follow that up with mingling at the bar. He unlocked his own room and dropped his bag onto the bed, the black rectangle of his bag blocking the southwest pattern of the bedspread. A mix of western and Native American decor made the room feel very homey to him. Much more pleasant than the sleek modern decor of most hotel rooms he was used to.
He could not stop the grin that tipped his lips when he thought of how dissatisfied his brothers Luc and Raphael probably were. Those pricks could just deal with a dose of humble pie for once. The resort was immaculate. But those two were spoiled, wanting every thing around them to be luxurious.
Castiel turned, hearing a quick knock on his door. He opened it, shoulders relaxing a bit when Gabe strutted in.
"So, this is cool!" Gabe said, lollipop dangling from his mouth.
"Yeah? Glad you like it," Castiel said, shutting the door.
"Are you seriously making us go horseback riding in the morning?"
Castiel laughed. "It will be good for all of us. We could use a dose of rugged."
Gabe raised his eyebrows. "What evs. Ready for the meeting?" Gabe flopped onto the bed, shoving the suitcase over a bit.
"Yeah." Cas stood at the window, looking out at the rocky terrain. It was dotted with small green scrub bushes. Off to the left he could see horse corrals. A man stood in the center of a round pen with the horse on a long lead line. The horse was dark brown with even darker mane and tail. It abruptly stopped trotting, turning on the man. The man stepped quickly, one hand raised. The horse stared at him then turned back to the fence and began trotting again. Castiel wondered if maybe he was in over his head here as well. He had ridden horses before, but not out in the open on a trail ride. He hoped the horses were not as frisky as the one the man had his hands full with.
"Are you gonna bring up the Parker case?" Gabe asked, looking through the resorts amenities book.
"Yes."
"You know that's gonna go over like a fart in church, right?"
Cas turned, looking at Gabe over his shoulder. "Yes. But it has to be discussed. Father acts like he is God. Dishing out life or death decisions. He had no right to deny chemo. They were covered. We have done it for others. And he just...denied them. That little girl is dead, Gabriel. And we could have prevented it."
"I know little bro," Gabe said gently. "It's the twenty fifth time this particular chemo was denied this year. Raphael is becoming ruthless."
"It needs to end. There has to be better insurance coverage for our clients." Castiel sat on the edge of his bed.
"I got your back, bro. I'll do what I can."
"I know, Gabriel. But I know you can only go so far. As well as myself."
Castiel stood and turned back to the window, leaning one hand heavily onto it, resting his forehead against his forearm.
The man in the round pen was standing with the horse now. He seemed to just be petting it. He felt Gabe next to him at the window.
"I'm prepared to go further than you are, brother. Father does not have the leverage on me that he has on you."
The brothers eyes met. Castiel nodded.
*********************
The meeting had gone smoothly enough so far. Their profits were 2.3 billion for the quarter. Castiel felt it was time to bring up his concerns.
"I would like to discuss something," he said firmly. All eyes which had been on his father averted to him. Castiel swallowed. "I want to bring up the Parker case."
Their father stared, unmoved. Raphael sighed heavily and Luc laughed roughly.
"Of course you do," Luc scoffed. "If Castiel had his way, he would approve every whim these people want."
"April Parker did not get cancer on a whim," Castiel snapped, meeting Luc's gaze full on. "Yes, the chemo she required was costly. But a drop in the bucket when compared to the profits we made just this quarter."
"Every drop counts," Alistair said dryly.
"April died. She could have lived!" Castiel said through gritted teeth.
"Our profits are higher than any of our competitors," Gabe said. "If you continue to deny people what they need, you are going to kill off your own clientele. Not too business savvy, eh, Pops?"
Their father tipped his head slightly, acknowledging the comment but not commenting.
"People die every day!" Azazel whined, looking to Luc for confirmation.
"Too true," Luc said lightly, Dick Roman nodding along.
"This is unacceptable practice," Gabe said.
That launched an argument that even Castiel had to brook his words for. Gabriel volleyed vehemently against the rest of the board, Castiel occasionally trying to back him up. Gabriel was angry. Mouth tight and eyes narrowed, he listened to their two brothers and several other board members spew a torrent of opinions that made Castiel's heart clench. These people were surely all going to hell no matter how righteous they believed themselves to be.
Gabriel's face was pinched and Castiel felt a cold clench in his stomach. He knew his brother was unhappy in their family business. When their mother had died two years ago, Gabriel and Castiel both had hopes that their father would lead the company into a more humanitarian era. So far he had done little. The retreats were the only positive change their father had begun. And it did nothing to help their clients.
"Ya know what?" Gabriel snapped loud, stopping everyone. "You bunch of heartless bastards have a price to pay for your lack of humanity. Each and every one of you deserve the hell that awaits you."
Everyone sat silent. Even Luc wore no grin.
"I know enough about this company to sink it. And you all deserve it. You deserve what's coming to you."
"Gabriel," Raphael intoned, "Do not do this."
"Too late, bro. You had your chance."
Gabriel stood up to leave.
"Gabriel, come on," Luc tried to appease. "We can take the Parker case under review.
"You do that, Luc. Not that that will make me stay. But maybe you won't actually burn in hell if you change your ways."
"Gabriel," Azazel said, "we will be on the phone to an attorney before you make it out the door. Your threats are meaningless."
Gabriel leaned down on the table onto his hands, glaring into Azazel's eyes. "Try me."
"Gabriel," their father said stonily, "if you walk out that door, you will be cut off from the family."
Gabriel nodded. "Lots of love to you too, Pops."
"No!" Castiel shot up from his chair. "Father, don't do this!"
"Sit down, Castiel," Luc said sternly with no humor. "We own you. Don't even try."
"This is wrong," Castiel said, his hopes sunk and his only ally in his entire family leaving.
"Sit, Castiel," their father said.
Castiel sat. Luc's words were true. His family owned him. Quite literally. He gave Gabe an imploring look.
"No worries, baby bro," Gabe grinned sadly. "We'll meet again."
"Not in this world," Luc scoffed.
Gabe winked at Castiel and he was gone. Cas slumped into his seat. He was defeated. Like always. His life was just one long string of defeats. He never felt more alone.
"Well," Luc smiled at the board, "that little temper tantrum will be dealt with. The family will discuss what we want to do and we will discuss things further tomorrow. Until then, please, let's move this party to the dining room.
Everyone nodded, scooting their chairs back and filing out of the room.
Castiel sat with his head in his hands. He was trapped. And there were seven board members who chose to be here. "Bunch of fucking lemmings," he said under his breath. Some of them were just as evil as his father and brothers. Some just did anything to stay in their lofty positions. The last one to leave was Bela. She threw Castiel a pouting look to mock him.
He rolled his eyes and stood, staring out at the breathtaking view. The world was full of such beauty. And such ugliness.
"Beautiful view, right?" Came a voice from behind him, making Castiel jump.
"Y-yes," he said. A teenage boy was busy in the room unhooking computer links.
"Do you work here?" Castiel asked, thinking he looked a bit young. He was tall. Taller than himself. Brown hair fringed around his ears and he shoved bangs out of his face, smiling. "Yep. My family owns the place."
"Oh. Family run, huh?"
"Yep." The teen stopped in front of him. "I'm Sam. Welcome to Angel's Landing." He smiled broadly and Castiel returned it.
"Thank you, Sam. It is truly beautiful here."
Castiel gathered his things and noticed Sam still watching him.
"Hope you don't mind me sayin, but you seem like maybe you could use a walk."
Castiel looked at him, squinting slightly. The thought of going to dinner made him feel ill. He could certainly use a walk. "I do."
"There is a lane leading down to the stables. Can't get lost there. You don't want to try any trails tonight. It'll be dark soon."
"Thank you, Sam. I will do that."
Castiel had gone to Gabriel's room, but he was already gone. Most likely he had paid someone a small fortune to drive him out of town. He went to his own room to change out of his suit. He wore cargo shorts, a t-shirt and sneakers. The lane leading to the stables was well marked and he took several deep breaths of the clean, fresh air. It was cleansing. He heard whistling and stopped along a fence to watch two men herd the horses into a smaller corral connected to the stable. It was harmonious to watch. The sun was dipping low and the horses moved easily, neighing and clustering at a door to get into the stable.
One of the men turned, seeing him there, watching. He waved and Castiel waved back. He suddenly felt like he was intruding into someone's personal life. He should be back at the resort. He turned to leave, walking a few steps, catching sight of the resort looming in front of him. He did not want to go back there. He stood still in the middle of the lane. He had no where to go. Gabe was gone.
"You doin okay there, sir?" Came a voice from beside him, making him jump.
"Y-yes," Castiel said, looking over and then up to an extremely handsome man in full cowboy gear, sitting atop a horse. "Oh my." 'He's average looking! You are NOT attracted to him!'
The man grinned, leaning his forearms down onto the horn of his saddle. The reigns were so loose that the horse had full control, but stood there watching Castiel as well. "You headed to the Landing?"
"No. Yes. I-" Castiel stammered. He looked away from the green eyes of the man talking to him. "I don't know."
The man nodded.
"I did not mean to disturb you. I was just walking," Castiel explained.
"No problem. Rough day?" He asked.
"Very." Castiel began walking toward the resort, the horse walking with him. The cowboy still leaning onto the saddle horn.
"Is everything okay at the Landing?"
Cas looked up at him and smiled. "Angel's Landing is wonderful. Are you related to the people that own it?"
"Yes, I am," he said, looking at the building ahead. If Castiel was not mistaken, there was a heaviness to that admission. "My grandparents on both sides went in together and combined my father's family's farm with my mother's family homestead. They built Angel's Landing."
Castiel nodded. "Is that not what you wish to do? Run this retreat?"
He tipped his chin with an apologetic grin. "Life is good man. Look at that view. It's my home. And always will be. Family business, ya know."
Castiel nodded. "Family business can be..." He shook his head unable to finish the sentence. He stopped walking, unable to bring himself to be any closer to his family. The horse stopped as well.
"I don't mean to interrupt you," Castiel said, glancing up at the real-life cowboy a mere two feet from him.
"It's no problem."
Castiel turned back toward the stable, the horse turning as well. He laughed.
"Ole Chopper likes you," he said, laughing at the horse who was watching Castiel intently.
Castiel stepped up to the fence, the horse putting its head over and allowing him to pet his silky muzzle.
"Well, maybe I will get to ride you tomorrow," Castiel said to Chopper. He glanced up, seeing a raised eyebrow on the tall cowboy. "Oh, I'm going for a trail ride in the morning."
The cowboy nodded, grinning and patting Chopper on his broad neck. "Chopper's not a guest horse. But I'll be sure you get a good one. Are you with the group of 12 I have in the morning?"
"I am."
"Well, I'll see you in the morning. My name's Dean."
Castiel smiled. "I'm Castiel."
"See you in the morning, Cas."
Castiel stepped back and watched as the cowboy loped away. He had to grin. The cowboy was hot. 'He is NOT hot. He is just doing his job! Oh who am I kidding? Okay, you can have exactly 2 minutes to think about him. Then it's over. Done.' Yeah, he was the hottest man he had ever seen. Cowboy hat, green eyes that were gorgeous, lean, toned body with muscular forearms that held the reigns and commanded horses with ease. And holy shit, the chaps. And a firm denim clad ass in those leather chaps. Boots. Real ones. Broken in and dirty with spurs on them. An easy smile.
Castiel had to shake himself away from the fence rail. He walked back into the Landing with a dazed expression and a new layer of nervousness about tomorrow. Then he immediately began stuffing the thoughts deep down inside. He was not attracted to men. 'But THAT man, I mean, who could blame him? No, not attracted. Just a friendly guy. Yes. Courteous and friendly.' He went straight to his room, his heart still heavy. He closed his door and leaned against it. Dean the cowboy. Nice guy. Castiel gained a grip on his thoughts and feelings. 'You have other things to worry about.'
The next day began with a quick breakfast in the conference room. Having no dinner the night before, Castiel filled up quickly on jelly donuts and coffee. He had slept little, usual for him, with thoughts of Gabriel twisting and turning in his mind.
His family were not ones to make enemies of. He worried for his brother. He had hoped that Gabe had made plans for a day like today. But knowing Gabe, it had been a spontaneous decision. He would help him however he could.
"Horseback riding?" Raphael said over his shoulder. "Do you think yourself funny, Castiel?"
"No, not particularly. You always tell me I have a lousy sense of humor, Raphael." Castiel met Raphael's glare equally.
"Don't think for one moment I will not cut your salary if you make a fool of me."
Castiel rolled his eyes. Raphael had cut his salary before. Only guilt and family obligation had him trapped into working for his family's company.
And both were wearing thin.
"It'll be fine," Luc grinned. "Worst thing that can happen is you'll fall off and, oh, look like a fool."
"Thanks, Luc," Castiel grimaced.
"Anytime, bro." He clapped Castiel on the shoulder, wearing that evil grin he seemed to be born with.
They made their way down the path toward the stable by 8:30. They clustered around the stable entrance where Dean and another man waited for them.
“Novak group?” Dean grinned at them all.
“Yes,” Raphael snapped with unneeded bitterness. Dean’s smile barely fluctuated as he waved them into the barn.
Castiel gave him an embarrassed smile. “There will only be ten of us, instead of twelve.”
“No problem,” Dean nodded. His grin was small but sincere and Castiel had to look away before he started blushing.
Gabriel had not miraculously turned up during the night. And his father had not come for the ride, stating it was not necessary. Castiel would have argued that it was necessary. That this board needed brought back to life. But it would have been in vain.
By the time all ten were mounted, Castiel wished he could run away. His brothers and the other board members were a prudish, stuck up bunch. Castiel could see the exchanged looks between Dean and Bobby, the man helping Dean. Dean was friendly and professional, but much cooler with the others than he was with Castiel.
Castiel had gotten a stone grey mare with black mane and tail. A beautiful creature. Castiel felt more comfortable than he had expected in the wide western saddle. He wandered with his mare, Jewel, around the paddock, practicing stopping, going and turning. Bela was a natural, proving quite flashy on a sleek black gelding. Luc and Raphael looked uncomfortable, but were holding their own.
"Alright folks," Dean called. "Follow me, stay on the trail, and let's have a fun, safe ride today. I'm taking you to two scenic points today. The first will take about fifteen minutes to get there. The second will take about twenty. We will be back to Angel's Landing in an hour."
They filed out of the paddock, the horses steady and reliable to the novice riders. Castiel watched as the scrub grass terrain quickly turned to reddish rock and dirt.
As they filed along narrow passes, the path would open up suddenly, revealing a canyon that was deep and held layers of cliffs. His horse was sure and steady, allowing him to watch the scenery easily.
As the group rode away from the first point, Dean came to walk beside him on Chopper.
"Morning, Cas."
Castiel grinned at the nickname. No one had ever called him that. Gabe called him Cassie when they weren't around their parents.
"Good morning, Dean," Castiel answered.
"Enjoying yourself?"
Castiel marveled at how close Chopper walked with Jewel, making Dean's knee lightly touch his several times.
"Immensely," Castiel grinned, blushing at the close proximity.
"Good. I don't think everyone in your group is having a good time."
"I'm so sorry for their behavior. They are..."
"I get it," Dean grinned. "This isn't a vacation for everyone."
"Oh, but it is so beautiful here."
"Yeah, sure is. My mom used to tell me that little boys play in sand boxes, making castles. And angels played here, making canyons."
Castiel laughed softly. "That's an interesting theory. I like it."
"Where's the stupid leader guy?" They heard Alistair complaining from ahead.
"Guess I better get up there," Dean said, steering away a bit and speeding up to assist Alistair.
At the second point, Castiel sat in wonder, staring down into a cavern of red and brown striated cliffs. Every time he changed angles, it was like a new view. The sight was beautiful. He missed Gabriel. As he looked around at the group, he could tell that they were not as impressed or observant in the raw, rugged beauty around them. Castiel walked his horse over to Dean's.
"Sorry about my brothers. And the rest of them for that matter. I know they can be a bunch of assholes."
Dean laughed. "Don't worry about it, man. We get people like this from time to time. Just not usually so many at once."
Castiel grinned. Dean always had a way of putting him at ease.
"Besides," Dean said quietly, "the horses tell me all I need to know. Look at Jewel's ears. They're out to the sides and her eyes are calm. She likes you, therefore, I know you are a decent person. Look at the other horses ears."
Castiel followed his gaze. The other horses ears twitched forward to back, pinning every so often. "What do the horses tell you about them?"
"That they're assholes." Dean winked at him and Castiel laughed.
As the board members finished taking photos, they began to wind their way back to the stables. The ride only took an hour. Castiel was sad to see it end. He had really enjoyed himself. He wondered if he could ever fit horseback riding into his insanely busy schedule back home. Doubtful.
He was the last one still mounted and the others were heading back to the resort.
"Time to give her back," Dean called from beside him. He was standing on the ground and from Castiel's high perch on Jewel, looking down on him, Castiel wondered at his soft, pink lips. They looked absolutely delicious. 'Stop that. Don't look at his lips!'
Castiel dismounted and handed Dean the reigns. "Thank you, Dean." He glanced over his shoulder. "Thank you for handling the others so well. They are a difficult group."
"No problem." The pair held a gaze for a moment. Then Dean cleared his throat, looking at Jewel. "So, I'm training this new horse. I have to practice trail riding with her. Would you like to come along? I mean, since you had so much fun today."
Castiel could feel his face light up. "Yes! That would be great! When?"
"Tomorrow morning. Really early. Like six?" Dean said taking a few steps from Castiel.
"Okay. I'll be here."
Dean nodded and left with Jewel. Castiel headed for Angel's Landing. He was excited to ride again tomorrow. And to see Dean. 'No, just the horseback riding! You are such an idiot, Castiel!'
When he got to his room, Luc stood waiting at his door. "You are needed for a quick family meeting, little brother," Luc said, grin wide.
Castiel nodded, following Luc back to the meeting room.
His father sat at the head of the table, Luc took the seat to his right, Raphael on his left. Castiel sat reluctantly next to Luc.
Raphael looked at their father. "All of Gabriel's assets have been frozen. He is no longer legally allowed in either of his homes and all his cars are being repossessed as we speak. Word of his drunken misbehavior at the retreat, resulting in his termination has already spread at the main company."
"Drunken misbehavior? Gabriel was not-"
"You are here to listen," Raphael said coldly.
Castiel sat back. The ruin of Gabriel Novak had begun. The spread of lies and rumors. The financial shut down.
Luc cleared his throat, "All passwords have been changed at work and home. His badges will not work at any location."
"And where has he gone?" Their father asked.
Raphael and Luc exchanged a glance. "No idea yet, father. But we will find him," Luc said firmly.
"Castiel," their father said, "if you know anything about where your brother has gone, it would behoove you to share any and all information."
Castiel squinted in thought. He had felt somewhat hurt that Gabriel took off and had not told him where he was going. Maybe this was why. For as impulsive and flippant as Gabriel could appear, he was extremely smart and cunning.
"I have no idea where Gabe is. But father, please be kind. He left because he, like me, want better health insurance coverage for our clients."
"YOU DO NOT RUN THIS COMPANY AND NEVER WILL!" Roared Raphael.
Castiel felt himself shrink into his chair.
Luc put an arm around Castiel's shoulders, leaning into his ear, making Castiel close his eyes and grit his teeth. He could feel the heat of Luc's breath into his ear as he said, "Behave now, little brother. You know you need to tell us all you know."
"I don't know anything!" Castiel said low.
"Nothing?"
"No."
Luc reached over and toyed with Castiel's earlobe. "If we find out you are protecting Gabriel -"
"I'm not."
"Or helping him,"
"I won't."
"Then you know what happens. Our youngest brother gets put up for closed adoption."
"I'm not helping him, Luc!" Castiel waved Luc's hand away from his ear and stood up.
"If you help him in any way or do not report seeing or being contacted by him, little Jimmy goes away. And you will never find him, Castiel."
Castiel sat back down. He smoothed his face into a cold look. "Threaten all you want. I am not helping Gabriel."
All three men stared at him coldly.
"Are we done?" Castiel stood, his gaze locked on a random craggy cliff out the window.
"We're done," Luc said smoothly.
Castiel left the room, striding quickly out of the resort and down the lane toward the stable. How many times could they threaten to send Jimmy away? How long could they hold his little brother over his head? And they already worked so hard to turn him against Castiel. Not that it worked.
He strode past the stables and back a lane that was hilly. He felt sick. Light headed even. He was glad for Gabriel's escape from their family, but now they had Castiel even tighter under their thumb. Defeated. Again.
"Hey there," came a woman's voice.
Castiel turned to see a red pick up truck sitting next to him in the lane. He had not even heard it approach.
"Y-yes?" He said.
"Need a lift son? This is private property back here. Hiking trail starts at the bottom of the lane."
She was a beautiful blonde. She looked relaxed and not angry at Castiel for being where he should not be.
"I am so sorry. I just started walking..." Castiel began.
"No problem, hon. Can I give you a lift back?"
Castiel nodded and got into the truck.
"I'm Mary. My family runs this place."
"Nice to meet you, Mary. Is Sam your son then? I met him yesterday."
"Yep. That's my boy."
"He is very mature. He was the one who told me to walk back here. Sorry, I guess I got carried away."
"Those red cliffs will draw you in. Mind your feet when walking out here."
Castiel smiled and nodded.
"You here with the business group?" She asked.
"Yes." Castiel grimaced at the disgust so easily heard in that one word. 'Pin your smile on, Castiel. They own you.'
"Do you like the meeting room?" She asked softly.
"Oh yes. The view is amazing."
"I'm glad. Oh, I need to stop here a second," she said off handed, pulling over at the stable.
She rolled her window down and hollered, "Hey John, where's Dean?"
A man with sharp eyes pointed to the stable.
She turned back to Castiel. "Want to come in the stable with me? I just need to give my son a message."
"Sure," Castiel said.
He followed her through a large sliding door that stood open at the end of the stable. The smell of sweet hay, horse, and leather filled Castiel's nose.
The first six stalls on either side stood empty. They were clean and neat. The next ten on either side held horses. Some doors were closed, but most only had a rope across the door.
Castiel felt his heart flutter as Dean stepped out of a stall, small pitch fork in hand.
"Hey, Mom," Dean said, then catching sight of Castiel, his grin widened. "Hey, Cas."
"Hello, Dean," Castiel smiled back.
"The vet called. He will be here around 2:00 to look at Macey and the foals."
"Alright. Then tell Sam he needs to take the 1:00 group out."
"Will do."
"So, whatcha doin with Cas?" Dean asked.
"Oh," she smiled, "I found him walking back our lane."
Dean shook his head, grin playing across his mouth. "I take it your business retreat is still not going well."
"No," Castiel said, looking down the stable aisle to try to hide just how terribly it was going.
"Wanna help run feed for the cattle?" Dean asked, eyes the greenest Castiel had ever seen.
"Uh, sure, but I don't want to be any trouble."
"S no trouble. Glad for the company," Dean grinned.
"Well, you boys have fun!" Mary grinned, kissing Dean's cheek. "I'm off to Tropic for groceries."
Castiel watched as Mary left. "Your mother is very kind."
"Yeah," Dean said, busy scooping the last of the manure from the stall he was in.
Castiel edged closer to the stall door. "And I guess I met your brother yesterday. Sam?"
"Oh yeah? Nerdy kid, right?" Dean laughed good-naturedly.
"Very helpful kid," Castiel grinned.
Dean ducked the rope, coming out of the stall. He put the pitch fork away and wheeled the wheel barrow out into the aisle.
Castiel worried his hands, worrying that he was being a nuisance.
"Wait right there," Dean called, ducking into a doorway. He returned almost immediately, holding up a set of keys.
"Come on, Cas. Let's go feed some cattle."
Castiel could feel himself grinning. He followed Dean to a large white truck with hay piled in the bed.
The two men climbed inside the truck, Dean starting the engine. "So, I met your mom and your brother," Cas said, nerves easing a bit at Dean's relaxed posture and easy grin.
"My dad is John, ya probably passed him on your way into the stable, he was fixing a tractor. I have another brother, Adam. He's bringing cattle in from the western field. My mom's parents, Samuel and Deana run the resort."
"I met them too!" Cas grinned.
Dean nodded. "Then you know my whole family. Oh, you met my uncle Bobby. He runs the stables and I do all the work." He laughed and threw Castiel a wink.
"So, the only ones you haven't met are Adam and my aunt Ellen, Bobby's wife. You'll meet her if you go...well, hell, I might as well take you to meet her. Full package deal."
"No really," Castiel blushed, "I am being a total pain in your ass, I'm sure."
"No, no. Trust me. Ellen is pure gold. And you give me an excuse to take a break at lunch time."
Dean stopped the truck at a gate, hopping out. Castiel followed him.
"If you show me what to do, I can help," he offered.
"You're all right, Cas." Dean showed him how to unlock the chain lock and swing the gate open.
Dean moved the truck through and stopped, waiting for Castiel to jump back in the truck after shutting and relocking the gate.
"Man, I'm gonna get spoiled," Dean laughed.
"This is fun!" Castiel laughed.
Castiel opened three more gates along the way. Dean taught him how to throw hay bails into the fields getting the cows their meal.
Last bail thrown and last gate locked, Castiel ran his forearm across his sweaty forehead. "You do this every day?" Castiel asked.
"Every day. Not so far out in winter."
Castiel pulled the leather work gloves off and laid them on the seat in between them. Dean pulled a red bandana out of his shirt pocket, handing it to Castiel.
"Thanks." He mopped his forehead and back around his neck. He was sure his unruly hair was everywhere. He huffed a laugh. "That was awesome!"
Dean grinned as the truck rumbled down route 12. "Did you good, I think. You look a lot better. I mean, more relaxed."
Dean turned into a small building Castiel never would have noticed along the road.
The sign above read, 'Harvelle's Roadhouse'.
"This is Ellen's bar. Been in her family for years. Come on in."
It was dim inside and cool. Music played softly in the background. Waylon Jennings, if Castiel had to guess.
"Hey, Ellen," Dean called to the lady standing behind the bar.
"Dean," she smiled.
Bobby came out from the back. "Hey, boy, what you doin loafin off in the middle of the day?"
"You leave that poor boy be," Ellen sassed him.
"Poor boy, my ass," Bobby grinned, slapping Dean on the back. They were gruff people, Ellen, Bobby and John. Castiel could see he got a bit of that from that family and the kind grin from his mother and those green eyes from his grandmother, Deana. Whom he must be named after.
"Bobby, you remember Cas from this morning’s ride. Ellen, this is Cas."
"Nice to meet you, Cas." Ellen gave Dean a look. "You been workin’ the guests, Dean?" She said with an edge to it.
"Hey, Cas here is wound up tighter than a nine day clock. He offered, I took him along to feed cattle."
"Really," Cas defended quickly, "I had more fun today than I've had in years!"
Ellen nodded. "Alright then, what can I get ya?"
"Beer," Cas said.
"Same," Dean grinned.
Ellen poured two glasses and stepped away.
"She's a bit intimidating," Cas leaned over and whispered.
Dean chuckled. "Abso-friggin-lutely."
Castiel practically guzzled his beer sitting the glass down for more.
"How old are you?" Dean asked.
"24. You?"
"21."
Castiel nodded. Ellen refilled his beer. "Any food, hon?"
"Best burgers anywhere," Dean whispered loudly.
"Burgers it is," Castiel grinned.
Ellen nodded, a lingering grin playing on her lips. "Comin’ up."
"So, you're the oldest of your brothers?" Cas asked.
"Yep. Sam is 17, leaving for college in a few weeks, and Adam is 13. I feel like you know my whole life story and I know nothin’ ‘bout you." Dean's green eyes ran down Castiel's neck and chest, returning to his eyes, one corner of his mouth lifting in a small grin. Castiel could not stop himself from doing the same.
"My father runs the biggest health insurance company in the United States. My...I have three older brothers, Luc, Raphael, and Gabriel. I have one younger brother named Jimmy. He's only two."
"Huh, sounds like Jimmy was a surprise," Dean grinned.
"Yeah," Castiel said dryly. "We're all adopted. 'Bred for failure, raised to succeed', or so mother liked to say."
They sat quietly a moment, Ellen bringing their burgers and fries.
"Your family sounds complicated," Dean said quietly.
"Yes. Very. So what's it like here during winter?" Castiel asked, relieved when Dean let the subject of his family drop and talked about how he had a small apartment in Arizona he lived in during winter months. Bobby ran the stables mostly then. All too soon, their burgers were gone.
They waved goodbye to Ellen and Bobby as they left. The ride back was quiet but peaceful. Dean dropped Castiel off at the hotel in time for him to join the group hike.
Two hours later, Castiel took a deep breath, slowing his breathing from a steep section of trail. The sun blazed and the heat felt heavy and dry. He could feel the effects of being at a high altitude in the mountainous area. He was currently overlooking a magnificent view. Only five other board members made it as far as he did.
"Came by your room earlier today," Bela said quietly next to him. "You were nowhere to be found."
Castiel took a small step away from her, which she quickly corrected. "I was busy. What did you need?"
"I was concerned for you," she grinned sticky, sickeningly sweet.
"No. You were not," Castiel said, making brief eye contact. "You wanted to know what was said at the meeting with my family."
She glanced at the canyon. "Did they talk about who they will replace Gabe with?"
Castiel shook his head. "Go away, Bela."
He took a last glance of the lonely beauty of the canyon and headed back down the trail. This section of canyon was at a lower elevation and a thin-treed forest covered the slopes. The petrified wood looked like trees frozen in time. Their brown bark hard as rock. He read the plaques explaining the phenomenon.
He zoned out the complaints and work talk, taking in the dried wood, cactus, wildlife, and the never ending colors. He ended the trail, sweating and exhausted.
After a twenty minute ride in the van, where Castiel kept earbuds in and music playing to drown out his coworkers, he felt he had successfully dodged his brothers and coworkers.
Back at Angel's Landing, Castiel made his way to his room for a much needed shower. He dropped into bed that night, excited to see Dean in the morning. 'No, you're excited to go horseback riding! Dean has nothing to do with it.'
******************************************
The next morning, Dean made sure his saddle was clean and Chopper was brushed smooth until his coat shone. He wasn't sure why he liked this Cas guy so much. He was obviously a city boy. He wore sneakers to ride horses, dead giveaway you don't know shit about what you're doin. But hey, guests were guests. But after he saw the group of people Cas was with, he wanted to help the guy. It was like watching a lamb graze in a field of coyotes. And he was funny. And his eyes...'wait, what the fuck was that? His eyes! Okay, he had like crazy blue eyes or something. Whatever.'
Chopper tossed his head and whinnied. Dean turned to see Cas coming his way. Hair dark brown, almost black, jeans that hugged him just right.
"Mornin, Cas," Dean called, drowning out his own thoughts.
"Hello, Dean," he said in a gravely voice that made Dean want to fuckin purr. Fuck. One look at him and Dean had to mentally kick himself to shut his thoughts down.
"I got Chopper all ready for you."
"Oh, he's so...big! I hope I can handle him," Cas said looking at the horse in wonder.
Dean had to stifle a slew of dirty jokes.
"You'll do just fine, Cas. Chopper is the best. I, on the other hand, will be riding Trigger, who is new at trail riding. Things should be fine, but I like to have an extra pair of eyes in case things go sideways."
He chuckled at the nervous look on Cas' face. He had to chuckle. He was adorable. 'What the fuck? Adorable? Pull it together Winchester!'
"I thought Chopper wasn't for guests," Cas said, looking up at the saddle nervously.
"Well, guess you're a friend then," Dean grinned. Cas gave him a boyish smile that must have driven all the girls he went to school with crazy. 'Horses, Dean, think horses. Fuck.' "Chopper will take good care of you. Don't worry."
He gave Cas a leg up. He could have used a mounting block, but this way he got to touch him. He mentally scolded himself for his lingering grip on Cas' calf, but he did it anyway.
Dean focused on Trigger. His sleek dark brown coat shone glossy and smooth. He was in a good mood and Dean swung up to the saddle easily. At least he didn't look like an ass trying and failing to get on. Horses could do that to ya.
They made their way down the trail by the lane. "You take the lead, Cas. Chopper knows where to go."
"Alright," Cas grinned.
Dean watched Cas in front of him. He was relaxed, letting his body move with the horse. "You're a natural rider, Cas," he called.
Cas turned his head and grinned, his eyes crinkling at the corners.
Chopper lead them several miles before Trigger had had enough. He started to pull and kept stopping. This short piece of the trail was narrow, scaring the skittish young horse.
"Keep goin, Cas. Chopper is showing Trigger the trail is safe."
"Okay," Cas called, still turning to watch the battle of wills between Dean and Trigger.
With coaxing, Trigger settled down and hurried through the narrow section catching up to Cas. The horse was huffing and sweating from his exertions so the pair stood there waiting for him to relax again.
"This is dangerous work," Cas said, worry twinging his brow. "It's an awful lot of responsibility for someone so young."
"Ha!" Dean laughed. "Tell that to my dad. If you ain't huntin’ and herdin’ on your own by the time you're ten, then there's something wrong with ya."
Cas shook his head, eyes moving out to the canyon view in front of them. It was craggy and sharp, with stone formations coming up from the canyon floor and walls that looked like spikes.
"This is Perdition. Legend says Indians would bring people here for punishment and pitch ‘em over."
"Nasty," Cas said.
Dean caught movement out of the corner of his eye and saw the snake before either horse had. He reached over, taking Chopper's reign. Cas gave him a startled look. "We gotta -"
Too late. Trigger saw it and began rearing and spinning. Chopper simply backed up closer toward the mountain and stood still, thank God. But Trigger was spooked good. "Whoa, boy! Easy, easy," he said as calmly as he could. He stopped rearing, huffing hard. Dean turned to see a wide eyed look of terror on Cas' face.
"Dean!"
"Are you okay, Cas?"
Trigger gave a mighty buck. With Dean twisted in the saddle, his balance and grip were not good enough. He went over Trigger's head, hitting the dirt hard.
"Dean!"
He scrambled in the loose sandstone and slid over the side of the cliff.
"Dean!" Cas screamed again.
Dean scrambled to grasp anything he could on his slide down the cliff face. The brittle rock broke away letting him free fall for a few seconds before he landed on his back over several of the skewer-like rock formations of a ledge. He blinked his eyes hard, tasting blood in his mouth.
"Dean! Don't move! I'm coming!" Cas called.
"No!" Dean whispered, afraid breathing any harder might crack one of the skewers painfully holding him up.
He watched as Cas climbed down over the side, his feet finding purchase on a rim of stone. He wound his way down, rope in hands.
As Cas neared him, Dean whispered, " Cas what are you doing?"
"I tied this rope to Chopper's saddle. I'm going to tie it around you and have him pull you up."
"Okay," Dean whispered, desperate for anything to work.
Near enough finally, Cas tested his weight on one of the spindles. "Cas, don't get hurt, don't! Go back up!"
Cas frowned. "Like hell."
"This is hell. It is. Don't fall, Cas!"
Dean felt Cas' hands working under his back. Flipping the rope to loop around his torso.
"Is your back okay, Dean?"
"I'm such an idiot for bringing you here."
"Dean," Cas put his hand firmly on Dean's upper arm, do you think you have a back injury?"
Dean looked into Cas' calm blue eyes. "No, I don't think so."
"Okay," his hand squeezed a bit tighter. "I have you. Dean, look at me."
The command in Cas' voice made Dean snap his eyes to Cas' immediately.
"I have you."
"Okay," Dean barely whispered.
Cas tied the rope just under Dean's arms, knotting it.
"Okay," Dean said softly, "moment of truth."
Dean grasped the rope with two hands, yanked it and yelled, "Walk on!"
He sat up as the rope pulled from the unseen horse over the cliff.
Cas' grip on his upper arm was iron clad. He maneuvered himself back off the spire he was holding and onto the rim, guiding Dean's now suspended body toward him. Cas latched onto him with both arms, pulling him flush against him onto the rim of the cliff, the rope still suspending him just over the rim Cas stood on.
"Personal space, Cas," Dean laughed weakly as he gripped ahold of Cas' shoulders.
"You want some space?" Cas laughed back, eyebrows raising.
"No, no. This is good man, I was kiddin'."
Cas put both arms more comfortable around Dean's middle, hands pressing his back into him. Dean could feel every bit of the front side of Cas' body. Try as he might, he still could not catch his toes on the ledge to help the slow journey up the thin rim.
"Gotta say," Dean laughed, "last time I was this close to someone, I got laid." 'Damn my stupid sense of humor! Who says that? At a time like this? I'll be lucky if he doesn't shove me overboard right now!'
Dean watched as Cas flushed and for the first time since all this happened, broke out into a sweat.
"Days not over yet," he grinned.
Dean laughed it off, but their mouths were close enough to kiss. He could feel the smooth skin of his freshly shaven face.
Chopper took steps every so often, inching them further and further along the rim. They stopped at one point, both men huffing from exertion.
Dean could not even help it, he leaned his head down onto Cas' shoulder, slumping slightly into him.
"Dean?" Cas whispered, his hand coming up, fingers running into his hair. "Are you okay?"
"I'm okay," he said faintly, wanting to freeze this moment forever. Soaking in the feeling of someone holding him tight. He realized that the grip felt more like an embrace than a desperate hold.
"We're almost there," Cas said with such gentle kindness, his hand sliding down the back of his head again.
"I'm good," Dean said, taking a deep breath and feeling the rope pull again.
Back to the cliff edge where Dean had slid off the edge, the rope disappeared over the top. Finding hand-holds, Dean climbed as Chopper pulled, finally cresting the edge back onto the trail. He stayed on his knees, throwing the rope down to Cas.
He climbed up easily, crawling over the edge. On hands and knees, the pair eyed each other.
"Damn, that was close," Dean said.
"Yeah. You scared the shit outta me," Cas said.
Adrenalin fading, heart beats slowing, Cas sat hard on his butt, slumping against a boulder. Dean sat heavily where he was. Both heaved in a breath of air, glancing at each other.
"You okay?" Cas asked, his voice catching and his eyes looking red and watery. 'Oh, Jesus, don't cry dude. I'm gonna lose my shit if you cry.'
"M ok," he nodded vigorously. "M good."
He slid back against the boulder, tight against Cas, still feeling the pull of the cavernous space mere inches away.
Cas slid his hand into Dean's, squeezing it tight. "I thought..."
"I'm good," Dean said, it coming out breathy.
"It all happened so fast," Cas all but whispered.
"You thought fast. You saved my life," Dean said, squeezing his hand back. "You did good." 'I'm holding a dudes hand. Handholding is a natural reaction, right? I mean, I just almost died! I'm just comforting him.'
Their eyes locked, Dean recognized a look of plea in his eyes. He was holding a dudes hand. Aw, shit.
Cas blinked first, dropping his gaze and his chin. He squeezed his hand once more and let it go.
They both turned, hearing slow clopping noises of a horse. Chopper rounded the bend, riderless and the rope still tied to the horn of his saddle.
"That is one good horse," Cas grinned, laughing softly.
"Best fucking horse in the world," Dean laughed.
They both put their heads back against the Boulder until their laughs died off.
"Dean," Cas said softly. "Let me see your back. I know you're bleeding somewhere."
"Yeah," Dean winced, taking in three particularly sore spots on his back. Warm stickiness soaked a section of his shirt. He pulled the button-down off gingerly, taking in the bloody handprint Cas left on the arm of one sleeve.
Shirt off, he scooted forward. "How bad is it?"
"Not as bad as I feared," Cas said. "These two," Dean felt the softest touches from Cas' fingers near two of the sore spots, "are going to bruise pretty bad. This one is bleeding still."
"I'll live," Dean said, picking up his shirt to put it back on.
"Wait," Cas said, stopping him. "I can at least clean it. Do you have a first aid kit?"
"Saddle bag," Dean said, choking on the word with Cas being so close, touching him.
He watched as Cas got to his feet and walked over to Chopper, praising him with pats and gentle talk that made Chopper toss his head. He got the kit and came back, kneeling down behind him.
Cas got to work with his own bandana, wiping the blood away. One hand grasped Dean's upper arm while the other worked tenderly to wipe away the mess.
"This might sting," he said in that gravely voice that dropped every now and then. Dean bit down a wince as an antiseptic wipe lightly grazed an area the size of a tennis ball. He listened as Cas began to open gauze and tape the area.
'What a fucking mess. Dad would kill me if he knew I put a guest through this kind of shit. It coulda been Cas. He coulda fallen. He coulda died. And fuck...his hands feel so good.'
Dean dropped his chin down to his chest, clenching dirt in his fists, trying to shut his thoughts out.
"Dean," Cas whispered. "You're okay." Cas was beside him, still on his knees, one hand still hot as a poker grasping his upper arm.
Dean opened his eyes. For years he had thoughts of moments like this. The right guy at the right time. No one around. No one would see. No one would know.
He turned his head to the side, opening his eyes slowly, catching Cas' blue eyes blazing in the morning sun. Concern slid away the longer their gaze held.
"You coulda got hurt, Cas. I'm so sorry."
Cas grinned, looking away for only a second. "I'm sure you planned for a snake to scare the shit out of your horse and throw you into Perdition."
"No," Dean whispered.
Cas held his gaze again. "I'm just glad we're alright."
Dean watched with growing heat in his loins as Cas' pupils dilated. Their breaths synced and grew a bit faster. 'God, I wanna kiss him. I wanna kiss him so bad. Those lips. I could. No one would know. No one but Cas. And -'
Cas broke the gaze again, reaching for Dean's hand. Dean looked down. He was still squeezing a fist full of dirt, his palm cut open slightly from small rocks in the sandy ground.
"Dean," Cas said, pulling his hand up and opening it, brushing out the dirt and squinting in thought. He looked back up at Dean. Dean instinctually released his other death grip of rock and sand, wiping it on his thigh.
"It's okay," he half grinned at Cas.
"I know," Cas said. He leaned in, closing the few inches of space between the two. His lips pushed onto Dean's, warm and salty.
Dean pulled back. 'Fuck! I really did it. I just kissed a dude. I...'
Dean saw the immediate trepidation on Cas' face.
"Sorry," Cas said so small.
"Naw," Dean whispered. When Cas' eyes flicked back to his, Dean was lost in them. Gone.
With one dirty, bloody hand, Dean cupped the back of Cas' head, pulling him in. This time he was ready. He kissed him slow. Cas slid closer, kissing harder, pushing those soft lips into his even firmer. Dean pulled him in tighter, wrapping his other arm around his back. Cas complied so willingly. Dean could feel his dick firming in his pants. He moved slightly to make room for the expansion and gasped when Cas wrapped a leg around him, straddling his lap.
"Damn," Dean gasped.
Cas pulled back, almost all the blue gone from his eyes, lips wet and parted as he breathed just as heavy as Dean.
Without a word, Cas leaned back in, running both his hands into Dean's hair and kissing him harder still. Dean turned his head, angling better and opened his mouth, letting Cas in.
Every pent up emotion in Dean let loose. He grabbed Cas' hips, pulling him down harder on top of him. He fought his way into Cas' mouth, needing more. Needing everything.
"You fuckin’ scared me," Cas said, lunging back into Dean.
"You fuckin’ scared me too," Dean said.
Cas pulled away from Dean's mouth, sliding down his chin and onto his neck.
"Cas," Dean moaned.
"Mmmm," was all he got in response with biting, kissing reverence.
Biting?
Dean abruptly pulled Cas back. Startled blue eyes met his. "You can't leave any marks on me, man. No one can know."
A look of shame crossed Cas' face. "Okay. You're right. Sorry."
"I'm sorry. It's just...no one here can know." Dean dropped his chin.
Cas tipped his chin up to meet his gaze. "My family can't know either. I'll be kicked out this time."
"This time?" Dean quirked.
Cas blushed. "When I was seventeen, I got caught making out with a guy in my car. Luc caught me. It was pure hell for awhile. My parents are very religious."
Dean grimaced just thinking about Cas being in any kind of negative situation. "Your family are assholes," he said, running his hands up Cas' sides.
Cas grinned. "Yours too?"
"Just my dad. My grandfather too," Dean said, feeling Cas' taut frame on top of him, his growing bulge pressing into Cas', making it terribly hard to think. "Dad caught me staring at this guy...a guest...and beat the shit out of me for 'thinkin’ ‘bout it'. Said I was...a lot of things."
"You are a lot of things," Cas said, practically panting. "You are so fuckin’ hot."
Dean felt his whole body spasm at the compliment. He gave Cas a suspicious look. 'Is he messin with me? Did Dad set up a trap?'
Cas gave him a quizzical look that quickly heated. He put his hands on Dean's bare chest, making him gasp slightly. "Cas."
"You're a freakin’ cowboy. Hat, horse, chaps," each word was followed by a kisses that grew in intensity, "boots, Spurs, did I say chaps?"
Dean laughed as Cas ran kisses back his neck, making him grab Cas tight to stop tickling him.
"Dean," Cas said, "is there any way we can meet later? I just..."
Their mouths drew together again. They kissed hard, hands feeling each other.
'He wants to meet later! Where? How? I should say no. I should stop this now. We just kissed. I could still walk away from this. I can still be straight. Dad never has to know about this.'
Cas' hand slid down his thigh and back up. The weight of him on his lap, pressing down on him. Fuck it. This feels better than anything I've ever done. I want him more than I've ever wanted someone before.'
"Yeah, meet me at the stable at 9:00 tonight," he said.
They kissed again and pulled apart, Cas getting to his feet and pulling Dean up.
"You might wanna," Cas said, voice cracking, "put your shirt back on."
Dean smiled at him smugly. This dude thought he was hot. He looked at wrecked as Dean felt inside. So, the cowboy thing really did work. Not just on chicks anyway.
Chopper stood patiently waiting. Cas hoisted himself up, and held a hand out to Dean. Dean grinned again. Trigger was no where to be seen and Dean was already feeling sore. He gently pulled Cas' foot out of the stirrup, putting his leg ahead of it so Dean could shove his own booted foot in and hoist himself atop. He settled behind the saddle, wishing with all his might they had ridden bareback so he could sit tight against Cas. Better not though. His hands rested lightly on Cas' hips and he could see the blush still spread on Cas' cheeks. "Lead the way," Dean said, his voice coming out low and scratchy.
Cas put the reigns into one hand and let his other hand drift down to settle over Dean's hand.
They found Trigger waiting just before a section of narrow trail.
Dean squeezed Cas' hips lightly and he dismounted. He did not miss the frown on Cas' face.
"Atta boy, Trigger, you're gonna be alright," Dean laughed, swinging up.
"Lead us back, Cas!" Dean called.
Cas grinned, taking the trail ahead of him.
Dean could not believe that he had kissed him. Had his hands on that body. And Cas wanted him. Wanted him pretty bad, if the bulge in his pants earlier was not a friggin’ Magnum flashlight. 'What are ya doin Winchester? You gonna actually do something about this guy? Like...do this guy? You don't even know what the hell you're doin.'
The memory of a disgusted look on his father's face loomed in his mind.
Dean sighed heavily. He was an adult. Maybe it was time to let himself have what he wanted, rather than what his family wanted for him.
UUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUU
Castiel kept his head down and his opinions to himself through the meeting that morning. He had been late, which got him enough scathing looks to make his morning glow die down. But as he settled behind his laptop, Raphael going on and on about some medicine that would no longer be covered by their insurance, Castiel relived the mornings events over and over. Only the good parts. Like Dean's green eyes, his rough, calloused hands, his mouth. He had been almost timid. But once he had taken a step, Dean had reciprocated even stronger.
"Would you agree?" Raphael's question rung loudly through the room.
Castiel jerked his head up. "Yes," he answered, having no clue what he was agreeing to.
"Really," contemplated Luc, eying him.
"Would it matter if I did not agree?" Asked Castiel, giving Luc a hollow look.
"Mmm," Luc contemplated.
The meeting wrapped up with events strung throughout the day.
By 9:00, Castiel was squirming to get away from the group. Finally, he made his break for it. He slipped out the side door of the resort and walked as quickly as he could up the lane toward the stable. It was dark out. The wind blowing was hot and dry. Castiel's hopes sank when he saw the stable was dark and locked up. He looked at his phone to see the time. 9:21. Shit!
Hearing a whistle from nearby, he saw Dean was sitting in a truck. He went straight for him, approaching the open driver's window.
"Sorry, I had trouble getting away."
"No problem," Dean grinned a bit tighter than his usual easy smile. "Hop in."
A thrill of anticipation raced up Castiel’s spine as he rounded the truck. He tried not to let his excitement show who readily. Part of him was a mite apprehensive to leave in a truck with a man he really didn’t know. It was all so out of the norm for him.
As they left Angel's Landing property, passing under the gateway with the CW, Cas asked, "What does the CW stand for?"
"Campbell, Winchester. My mother's parents, Deana and Samuel are the Campbell's. My dad's parents were the Winchesters. They went together when my parents were just kids and started the construction for what is now Angel's Landing, the stables and the cattle ranch."
Cas grinned.
"What's got you grinnin’ like that?" Dean asked, smiling slightly.
"Nothing," Cas grinned wider. "Well, your name. It's Dean Winchester. It's just so...cowboy. So...it's a great name."
Dean snickered. "Well, there's a new one. Never been complimented on my name before."
"Really? Well, it's quite rugged. I like it."
They exchanged blushing smiles, Dean relaxing a bit. "So, what's your first name again?"
"Castiel. It's an angel name. My parents are, were religious nuts. My brothers all have angel names. Lucifer, Raphael, Gabriel, and me."
"Well, I like Castiel. It's different. And now that I know I'm dealing with an angel, I feel a little safer. Or...dirtier, I'm not sure." They both laughed. "What about the little one? Jimmy?"
"Mm, James. He...his mother named him that. It stayed even with the adoption. My mother was not pleased."
Dean gave him a slightly quizzical look, but asked no more.
Twenty minutes down the road, silence growing between them, Castiel worked up the nerve to ask, "Where are we going?"
"Just up the road to a quiet spot I like."
"I...are you okay with this? With hanging out with me again? Please don't feel obligated."
Dean threw him a raised eyebrow. "Cas, I don't do anything like this for other guests. I want you to know that." He turned off route 12 and headed up a windy narrow lane. "In fact, I don't really know what the hell I'm doin. I mean...I don't..."
"Make out with guests," Cas offered.
"Well," Dean stammered, pulling the truck to a halt at a small stone building.
"Make out with guys," Cas supplied.
"Right."
Cas sighed. "There's no pressure here, Dean. We can just...talk or enjoy the view."
"Or drink. And enjoy the view."
They both got out of the truck and Cas followed Dean into the squat stone building that appeared to be somewhere between a ruin and usable.
Dean lit a lantern.
"Is that a real lantern?" Castiel asked, snickering.
"As opposed to..." Dean quirked.
"I just never actually saw a real lantern that people use." He marveled at the flame enclosed in glass. Dean showed him how to make it dim and then bright. It was quite entertaining for a moment.
Schooled in the art of lantern use, Castiel looked around the tiny dwelling. Three narrow bunk beds were set into the thick stone walls. The blankets and pillows were mismatched and some were pretty thread bare. A wooden table sat in the middle with benches on two sides and a chair at either end. No running water and no electricity. It was rustic to say the least. A wooden cupboard stood close to the only door.
"This used to be a hunting lodge they used a long time ago. It's halfway between Escalante and no where," Dean said as he opened the cupboard and pulled out a jar.
Castiel was surprised to see the cupboard was full of jars of food and liquid.
"What is that?" Castiel asked, looking at the clear jar of liquid in Dean's hand.
"Moonshine," Dean grinned. "Home brew liquor, my friend. Higher alcohol content and better flavor than anything you can buy at the store."
Dean reached up to a shelf above the cabinet and pulled down two small glasses.
"Drink?" Dean asked sitting on one of the benches and twisting the lid off the mason jar.
"Sure," Castiel said, sitting across from him. The heat from the morning seemed to be gone from Dean. Castiel wondered if maybe it had just been a heat of the moment thing.
Dean poured two drinks and they each downed the shots.
"It tastes like apple pie," Castiel marveled, looking at the jar in wonder. "That's incredible."
"Not all the best things come from the city," Dean said snidely.
"I know," Castiel said soberly. "I'm not like my brothers, Dean."
Dean made a slight grimace. "I know, Cas. Sorry. I'm just nervous. I say stupid things when I'm nervous."
Castiel nodded, watching Dean's tight shoulders.
"I'm sorry if I read you wrong this morning," Castiel said quietly. "But I sincerely hope I did not."
Dean licked his lips, biting his bottom one. "Cas, I spend 99% of my time in a place I don't want to be. Don't get me wrong. I love it here. I love the land. I love the horses. But I get no say. I'm just born into a family business. It's here ya go, life all planned out for ya."
"Do you want to leave?"
"Yeah! Yes, I want to leave. I want to see the world before I'm so rooted down I can't see past my own property lines. But, I don't hate it here."
"I understand," Castiel nodded, sliding his glass over for a second drink.
"Bet you've been around," Dean said, smirking and pouring them both another shot.
"I have traveled. I go to LA a lot to see Gabriel, my brother. I travel for work. I have been very lucky."
They slid glances across each other.
"But I do not have grandparents. And I do not have parents that love me. I never did. My brothers and I were all adopted. We were 'pulled from nothing' and were 'expected to become something'." Castiel air quoted, making Dean grin.
"Stepford family," Dean asked.
"Yes. Uptight. Religious to a fault yet some of the most evil people I have ever known."
"Damn, that's pretty heavy," Dean said, sipping his shot.
"I'm not allowed to be who I want to be. I'm not allowed to work anywhere but for my family's business. I'm not allowed to be gay." Castiel put his face in his hands, heaving a sigh.
"You are an adult," Dean said gently, "Why don't you just leave?"
"I can't." Castiel knew it came out bitter and angry. There was no way he was telling Dean the reason he was so trapped. How his family controlled his life. He was ashamed, for one. And it did not seem that Dean Winchester was in this for the relationship, even if they were talking first. There was a distance to him that was not there this morning.
He looked up to find Dean watching him closely. "It's a long story. One I am not very proud of. And I really do not want to talk about it."
"Okay," Dean shrugged.
Cas downed the rest of his shot, feeling the warm tingle down to his stomach. A heaviness sat on his shoulders and he swung his leg over the bench to stand up. He was already feeling the effects of the shots.
"Moonshine," he marveled.
"Good, isn't it," Dean said, grinning.
"Very. I love apple pie," Castiel said, grinning stupidly.
"Me too," Dean grinned back. "So, how much longer you gonna be here?"
"At Angel's Landing?" Castiel asked. He dropped onto the bench next to Dean, back against the table and elbows propped on it, legs extending into the small room. "I only booked us for a long weekend. We leave tomorrow morning."
Dean nodded, looking down at his thin layer of moonshine in his glass and drank it. "Wish you were staying longer, Cas."
Warmed by that, Castiel blushed. "Me too. Had I known the staff was so great, I would have booked a month."
Dean's green eyes squinted with his grin. "A month, huh?"
Castiel could feel his skin flush all over and his heart rate quicken. "Maybe I should look into a seasonal pass."
Both men chuckled and Dean lifted one leg over the bench so he was straddling it, facing Castiel. Castiel was feeling a warm buzz from the moonshine and a slight blush tinged Dean's cheeks.
Never before had Castiel been able to stare into someone's eyes with such intensity. Normally he had difficulty even making eye contact with someone he found attractive.
"How's your back?" Castiel asked.
"Fine. You didn't tell anybody I was stupid enough to put you through all that this morning, did ya?"
Castiel smirked. "No, Dean. No one knows."
Dean dropped his gaze, blushing harder. "I just mean the trail ride. My dad already thinks I'm an idiot. If he found out...there'd be hell to pay."
The look of hurt that shifted across Dean's face shattered any reserve Castiel had. In that moment Dean looked so young. It reminded Castiel that he was a few years older. And what little experience he had, was more than Dean seemed to have. But he seemed eager enough this morning.
Castiel put his hand on Dean's forearm, squeezing softly.
"Do you want to take me back to the hotel now?" Castiel asked, giving Dean one last out.
His green eyes raised to his with a look of longing. "No."
"Okay," Castiel grinned. "Just...tell me to stop if you want me to."
Dean licked his lips quickly, looking a mixture of worried and determined. "Quit makin me feel like a girl."
"Sorry," Castiel laughed, knowing Dean the little he did, he understood his use of digs as nervous humor.
Castiel had never before been the one that was more forward. It was new territory to him. He sat forward, sliding his hand down to Dean's hand, squeezed it slightly, then let his hand go back to his shot glass. "One more shot, Cowboy?" Castiel grinned.
"How bout half. Don't want ya too drunk," Dean laughed nervously.
Cas nodded, watching Dean pour them each another half shot. Castiel slid his shot glass over, clinking it to Dean's. They both took a small sip.
"You never banged any chicks in here, did you?" Castiel asked, snickering.
Dean's eyes widened briefly. "No. Never brought anybody here before."
"But you have slept with someone before?" Castiel asked, knowing he was being pushy for information, but inhibitions were down and time was short.
"Yeah. Enough that people here don't think I'm, well, you know. How bout you?"
"Yes. Twice. But I have never been all the way with a guy."
Dean nodded. His confidence seemed to grow more. His shoulders relaxed and he let out a breath.
Castiel watched as Dean's eyes darkened from grassy green to forest green. Birds and bugs made night sounds just beyond the door, but that was the only sound.
"I never met someone who made me feel so hot in an instant," Castiel heard himself say. He blushed at his own forwardness.
Dean slid his arm over slightly, his hand dropping off the table and onto Castiel's thigh. Castiel's eyes followed the trail Dean's hand blazed onto his leg. Knee almost to crotch, his hand slid slow and steady. Castiel let out a breath, looking back up at Dean. His eyes were closed, still straddling the bench, one hand rested on his knee and a look of pure want made Castiel let out a slow breath.
Castiel's eyes drifted shut and his head dropped back as Dean's hand kneaded the inside of his thigh from. He rolled his head slightly, looking at Dean again. His eyes were still closed. Castiel knew he needed to make a move. But what? What if he freaked him out?
He leaned closer to Dean, careful to not disturb the attention his leg was getting.
"Dean," Castiel whispered, breaking the spell, Dean's eyes flew open and his hand stopped moving. "You are so handsome. And you have beautiful eyes."
Before Dean could argue or reply, Castiel closed the small distance between them, kissing him. Dean kissed him, strong, firm, then relaxed a bit, pulling him closer.
"Come closer," Dean whispered.
Castiel stood, taking Dean's hand and pulled him up gently. "Come over here."
He led Dean to one of the more comfortable looking bunks and he crawled onto it. Dean sat, hesitated a second, then laid down, turning to face Castiel.
No words needed to be spoken. There was obvious want in both their eyes. Castiel went up on one elbow, pushing Dean down gently into the mattress. He slowly unbuttoned Dean's shirt, looking over the lines of his body. When his slow, wandering gaze returned to his mouth, he leaned down and kissed him deeply. The last button opened, he slid his hand onto Dean's warm, smooth skin. As Dean gasped at the touch, Castiel slid his tongue deeper. Dean's hands seemed to come to life all at once. He pulled Castiel deeper, his tongue fighting its way back and Castiel's slow pace unleashing Dean's pushy side. He started pulling at Castiel's shirt,
"Take it off," he commanded.
Castiel grinned, pulling back and pulling his shirt off, pitching it to the floor.
He shivered as Dean's rough hands slid up his sides, over his chest and down to his hips, squeezing. "You are so fuckin’ hot," Dean whispered.
Castiel dipped his head, chasing Dean's mouth to attack it. While occupying his mouth, Castiel's hand slid down to Dean's waist. He thumbed at the heavy belt and waistband of the jeans. He explored the belt and waist while plying Dean's mouth with growing heat. Dean's hands ran up and down his back, sliding into his hair.
Castiel's hand slid past the belt, finding the long, hard cock he had felt pressed into his own that morning. Finding the bulge, he grasped it soft but firm and ran his fingers up and down slowly, feeling Dean's hips rise as he slid up and sink as he slid down.
"Uh, fuck," came a small whine from Dean as he tipped his chin up, his entire body reacting to his touch.
Castiel lifted his head, watching the ecstasy grow on Dean's face. He was taut and tight. His cock felt like concrete.
"Cas," Dean murmured.
Castiel answered with hot, wet kisses on his neck and chest. His hand tightened, making Dean start to push into him harder. He was more than ready, just from a touch. The man was starved from what he wanted. And Castiel wanted nothing more than to give him whatever he wanted.
"You gotta stop," Dean said, grabbing Castiel's wrist firmly.
"But you like it," Castiel grinned, kissing his ear.
Dean pulled up, pushing Castiel onto his back and straddling him. "I'm not gonna last long if you keep touching me."
"This isn't going to last long," Castiel said, sliding Dean's shirt off and running his hands over his well-muscled shoulders.
Dean practically growled, his hands sliding down his abdomen and onto his jeans, feeling Castiel through his the denim layer.
"Dean," Castiel murmured, hips thrusting at his touch.
"Yeah," Dean said, lips wet from kissing. His eyes were fixed on the bulge he was rubbing.
"Dean," Castiel said low, "kiss me."
Dean's eyes returned to his, molten hot and determined. As the green disappeared under his lashes, their mouths made love. Castiel's hands went to Dean's belt, unbuckling it. Dean hesitated and Cas took a breath, pushing Dean's button open. His mouth dropped to Castiel's neck, making him arch up into Dean. He tugged the zipper and dug through the boxers, his fingers making contact with hot, silky skin.
"Uhh, fuck," Dean moaned, his mouth sliding up onto Castiel's ear. "Fuck, that feels so fucking good."
Every word made Castiel shiver and his own cock pulse.
"Sit up, Dean," Castiel managed, foggy headed.
Dean's mouth pulled away and he sat, his hand rubbing Castiel firmer.
Castiel unbuttoned his own pants and pulled the zipper down. Dean flicked
his hand away as he fished into Castiel's boxer briefs, his fingers finding what it sought, making Castiel jerk his hips up and grind it into Dean's hand.
Dean watched in wonder as the other man's cock moved around in his hand.
Need took over.
"Dean," Castiel said, their eyes locking. Dean leaned back down and whined into Castiel's ear when the two cocks pressed into each other. Castiel grasped them both, pumping firmly.
"Oh fuck," Dean said loudly.
"You got a dirty mouth, Dean Winchester," Castiel panted.
"You make me," Dean panted back, pumping into Castiel's hand. "Aw, Cas, you feel...you feel so good."
Castiel spit in his hand, giving them some needed lubricant as he squeezed the two cocks together, working them up and down.
Dean's forehead landed sweaty onto Castiel's.
"You feel so good," Castiel panted. "So fucking big. Can't imagine what it would feel like inside me."
"Ohhhh," Dean moaned, pumping his hips faster.
"I wanna make you come," Castiel gritted into Dean's ear.
"Fuck," Dean swore, taking Castiel's mouth and pumping hard.
Warm, wet seeped onto Castiel's hand as cum leaked from both of them, lubricating his hand to slide on their dicks. Castiel's hand flew faster, thumb running over the tips of their heads.
"I'm gonna," Dean heaved.
"Yeah, so fucking hot," Castiel moaned, pushing his hips up into Dean's and thrusting in sync.
Dean froze momentarily, growled and ground down into Castiel. "Oh God."
"You better fuckin’ come, cowboy," Castiel gasped.
Dean roared, hips pumping fast and they were both pulsing white ropes of cum. They pumped and jerked, gasped and Dean collapsed on top of Castiel.
"Oh, Cas. I can't even think."
He ran his hand through Dean's soft hair, pulling his other hand wet with semen out from between them, wiping it on the blanket before sliding his hand into Dean's back pocket, squeezing his firm ass.
"Don't think. Just breath."
Eventually, Dean slid over, allowing Castiel to take in a full breath of air.
They felt each other gently, not hurried.
"Guess that doesn't quite count as sex. Sorry," Dean said.
Cas took Dean's chin in his hand, making him look him in the eyes. "It was perfect. You drive me absolutely insane."
Dean laughed, laying his head on his shoulder and settling down beside him.
"You make me crazy too, Cas." Dean's fingers toyed lazily over Castiel's chest. "I don't ever want to move. I don't want this to end."
"Me either. I don't want to go," Cas said, kissing Dean's hair.
They laid there, touching and holding each other for over an hour before either one had the gumption to sit up and start moving. Dean crawled over top of Castiel, kissing him as he got out of bed. He buttoned his pants, catching Castiel watch him with hungry eyes.
"We gotta go," Dean said low.
Cas sat up. He stood, adjusting his own pants and fastening them.
A chill had set in. The ride back was quiet.
"What time do you leave?" Dean asked.
"Nine," Castiel said.
"Dean, I wrote my cell number down and put it in your glove. You can call me any time."
"I don't have a cell. No reception around here."
Cas nodded.
"But I'll try to call, okay."
Cas nodded again.
The truck pulled into Angel's Landing entrance and came to a stop.
Castiel's lips moved, but no words came out.
"Dean," Cas whispered.
"It was awesome meeting you, Cas. Good luck in...where you from?"
"Chicago," Cas said, looking down at his hands. "If you ever want to come on vacation -"
"Ranchers don't get vacations, Cas," Dean said tightly, looking out the windshield.
Cas bit his lip and nodded. He opened the door and closed it behind him. Dean's rudeness was obviously a cover. Cas knew he was miserable. Just as miserable as he was. He walked into the lobby as the truck pulled away. It felt as though something tore away from him as the cowboy’s truck rumbled away. A cold stab of emptiness filled him.
The doors to the resort seemed ten times heavier as he pulled one open to go inside. He looked up at the spirit horse and angel. The angel looked sad. Mournful.
Castiel left Angel's Landing the next morning at nine with the rest of his group. A new notch of defeat in his armor. A new hole in his heart. He made a mental note to never do a one night stand again. The weight was crushing.