When Sarah woke up in the morning, strong arms were wrapped around her body and a sturdy chest pressed against her back. Her heart jumped when Castiel shifted behind her and tightened his hold of her. Heat creeped up on her cheeks, and she placed her hands on top of Castiel’s. His calm breathing brushed Sarah’s hair against her neck and caused a shiver. The whole house was quiet. Sarah didn’t know what time it was, but the sun at least was already up. Sarah smiled while she gently laced her fingers with Castiel’s. When his hand squeezed hers, Sarah jerked from surprise. A soft chuckle right next to her ear raised the hair in the back of her neck.

“Good morning,” Castiel whispered. “Did I scare you?”

“N-no,” Sarah muttered. “Good morning,” she added. “Did you sleep well?”

“Like a baby. Must’ve been because of your lovely company.”

Sarah blushed again. Castiel was so close to her that his quiet murmurs to her ear caused her heart run wild.

Sarah shifted and Castiel loosened his hold. Sarah rolled around so she could face him. There wasn’t a half an inch of space between them. Sarah’s heart thumped in her chest when she looked at Castiel’s eyes.

“Did you sleep well?” Castiel asked and tucked a strand of hair from Sarah’s face behind her ear.

“I did.”

“Good.”

He smiled and leaned closer. His lips gently brushed against Sarah’s, testing the waters, asking a question: Is this okay?

It was. Sarah smiled and responded to the kiss gently, a soft sigh escaping her lips. Castiel cupped her face in his hands and kissed back eagerly, heat rising to his cheeks. Sarah’s hands wandered on Castiel’s arms and shoulders shily before she sank her fingers in his hair. The kisses deepened. It was getting warm even in the little clothes they had on. Sarah’s breathing was heavy, but she didn’t want to stop.

Then Castiel shifted his weight and moved. He was on top of Sarah, supporting his weight on his legs and his arms that rested on both sides of Sarah’s head. His body radiated heat, and Sarah shivered. She broke the kiss and stared and Castiel wide-eyed.

“Too much?” Castiel asked with a furrowed brow.

“I was just surprised.” Sarah voice trembled from shortness of breath and embarrassment. She couldn’t quite meet Castiel’s eyes. She didn’t know what to think. This was exciting but also made her nervous. She didn’t know what she was supposed to do.

“Don’t worry. I won’t do anything you don’t want to,” Castiel said. “I just can’t resist you, and I get ahead of myself. I’m sorry.”

“It’s alright. You always think about how I feel. I appreciate it.”

She placed her hand on Castiel’s cheek and pulled him into a kiss. Castiel sighed against her lips. This was the best morning in a long while.

A long while was spent on kissing and cuddling until Sarah and Castiel decided it would be better to get up. Neither of them wanted Sarah’s dad to come knocking on the door. Cheeks still rosy, they both dressed in silence on their own sides of the bed. Sarah’s lips were stinging and slightly swollen from all the intense kisses. A small bruise was forming just under her collarbone to a place that would be conveniently covered by her shirt. Just the thought of everything that happened made her blush deepen again. She buried her face in her night shirt, a happy smile on her face.

Castiel took deep breaths, trying to calm himself. His body had got more excited than it should have, but luckily Sarah understood and didn’t mind it. Still it was quite embarrassing since he had promised to take things slow. Castiel smoothened the wrinkles on his shirt and buttoned his jeans. He glanced at Sarah who slid her shirt on. Her figure against the light coming from the window made Castiel’s heart jump again. He took another deep breath and focused on finding his hair tie. Sarah would be the end of him.

Finally dressed and hearts calmed, Sarah and Castiel headed to the kitchen. Marcus was drinking coffee while reading the morning paper. The tv was on and talking about the stock market developments of the week. He raised his eyes from the newspaper when he heard footsteps.

“Ah, finally awake. Good morning,” Marcus said with a smile on his face.

“Morning,” Sarah said, Castiel echoing the greeting. She glanced at the clock for the first time that morning. It showed half past ten and a blush creeped back on her cheeks again.

“There’s still coffee if you want any,” Marcus said nodding at Castiel and then at the expensive looking coffee maker on the side table.

Castiel took a mug and poured it full while Sarah popped bread in the toaster, a wonderful machine that could fit four pieces in it at once.

“Did you sleep well?” Marcus asked and sipped his coffee.

“Yes, very well,” Sarah said avoiding her dad’s eyes.

“That’s good.” Sarah could swear she heard a hint of chuckle in dad’s voice.

But luckily the toasts popped out of the toaster, causing Sarah to flinch as usual. No matter how many times she braced herself for the pop, it always managed to scare her. Sometimes even worse if she was waiting for it to happen.

“Do you want toast or something else?” she asked from Castiel who had seated himself at the table with his coffee.

“Toast is fine,” he said.

Sarah loaded the toaster again and carried the plate of ready toasts to the table. She took out butter and jam from the cupboards and poured herself a glass of fruit juice.

“When are you leaving?” dad asked while buttering a piece of toast. “Not that I want to get rid of you, but just curious about your plans,” he hurried to add.

“Probably with the next bus,” Sarah pondered. “Since Ares is still alone at home.” They didn’t even have many other choices, only one other bus few hours later.

“As nice as it has been here, I don’t want to make Leon babysit him for more than necessary,” Castiel said. Half a day was probably more than enough. Leon wasn’t a particularly huge fan of dogs and Castiel didn’t want to take advantage of his friend’s kindness.

“The bus leaves at twelve, right?”

“Around there, yeah.”

“I can take you to the bus stop.”

“Dad it’s like ten minute walk.”

“I need to get groceries so it’s no big deal.”

“You just want to show off your car to Castiel, don’t you?”

Marcus laughed a bit. “Maybe.”

The toaster popped again, and Sarah hurried to gather the bread. Dad and Castiel chatted with each other while enjoying the coffee. Sarah smiled. It would’ve been nice if they could’ve stayed for longer.

Marcus’s car was worth bragging about. Castiel couldn’t hide his astonishment, when the dark blue sportscar rolled from the garage. He had already expected to see something expensive but Jaguar was still a surprise.

“Such a fancy car for this boring town,” Sarah sighed.

“But looks fucking sick.”

“Yes, it does.”

They climbed in the car. Marcus beamed with pride when he explained the car and its features to Castiel. He took a scenic route around the town to show the few landmarks they had: a river and a harbour, another big park that was beautiful in the spring when all the cherry and plum trees were in full bloom, the massive office building that was his workplace, and some shops and restaurants. Finally, dad stopped the car at the bus stop, pulling everyone’s attention to them.

“I’ll let you off here. It was nice to meet you Castiel,” Marcus said. “I hope we can meet again soon.”

“I hope so too,” Castiel said.

“Take care of Sarah.”

“I will.”

They shook hands and Marcus shifted his attention to Sarah.

“It was nice to see you again. Call me soon and come for a visit whenever you like.”

“Of course. I’ll try to come back soon.”

They wished each other good day and then dad drove away. The car’s engine roared a bit louder than necessary, and Sarah rolled her eyes. Show off.

Sarah took a deep breath and dropped her bag at her feet. She looked around the park and the streets, breathing in chilly late autumn’s air before turning her attention to Castiel.

“What do you think?” she asked. “About dad?”

“He’s cool. It was nice to meet him.”

Sarah smiled in relief. She had been a bit worried that maybe Castiel didn’t like her dad but didn’t want to say it. But he did seem genuine even when Marcus wasn’t a hearing distance away.

“I was honestly worried he’d murder me for dating you. But since I get out of there in one piece, I guess I’m safe?”

Sarah laughed. “Don’t worry. Dad likes you a lot. I can see it. He’s happy he has someone who understands his cars and music collection.”

Castiel would be the perfect son-in-law. Not that they were that far in the relationship. The thought made Sarah blush, and she buried her face deeper in her scarf. But she couldn’t deny that seeing a wedding dress show on tv piqued her interest in a completely new way now, even if it was years too early to think about marriage and weddings.

Luckily, the bus came and offered a distraction from her thoughts. She paid their tickets and they sat down. The bus rattled and shook as it left the bus stop and Sarah pinched her eyes shut. Castiel placed his hand on her arm.

“Do you want to come over when we get home?” he asked.

“I’d love to but I think I should go home. Mum’s probably waiting.”

“Okay.”

“I could come tomorrow though?” she suggested, glancing at Castiel between half-closed eyelids. “If you want?”

A smile climbed on Castiel’s face.

“I’d never say no.”

“Never? Even if I asked to come in the middle of the night?”

“Especially not then. Because wouldn’t it mean you had a really important reason to come?”

“I guess so. I didn’t really think about it like that,” Sarah said and leaned her head against Castiel’s shoulder. “I was just trying to think about a time that would be super inconvenient.”

“I wonder what time would be inconvenient enough. When I’m in the shower? No, I’d love to open the door to you in just a towel. If I had just woken up, I could have you as a breakfast company. If I was cleaning, I could ask for your help. If I was, sick you could nurse me…” Castiel shot a teasing grin towards Sarah, and she chuckled. She wouldn’t have objections about acting as a nurse.

“I guess the most inconvenient time would be Ares causing trouble or throwing a tantrum. Because he can be a brat sometimes, and I wouldn’t want him hurting you by accident.”

“Hard to believe Ares would cause trouble,” Sarah mumbled against Castiel’s arm. Her eyes were closed again, and she stifled a yawn.

“You wouldn’t believe what kind of problems he had gotten himself into. Like on the first week he was home, he peed on mum’s favourite carpet. And on the next day in dad’s work shoes.”

“Oh, ew,” Sarah laughed. “I can imagine your parents weren’t happy.”

“They were not. Luckily, they had to go for a work trip, so they missed a lot of other accidents and chewed socks and shoes.”

“He was just a baby then though.”

“True. But last week he decided to dig up flowers from mum’s flower bed.”

Castiel continued to talk about Ares’s mischief and adventures. After a while Sarah couldn’t keep herself awake anymore and dozed off while Castiel told the story of how the dog once greeted visitor’s by bringing them Castiel’s mother’s underwear.

Sarah and Castiel walked hand in hand towards Castiel’s house. Sarah still wasn’t planning on coming in, but she wanted to be just a bit longer with Castiel. The streets were quiet but a steady and deep thumping of bass and screeching car tires few blocks away told them some wannabe rally drivers were on the move. Sarah never understood how those people could drive their cars without going deaf. Just hearing the loud music from a distance rattled her bones.

They had barely reached the porch of Castiel’s house when loud barking and whining started inside. Claws scratched the door and the door handle rattled. Castiel clicked his tongue.

“Leon must’ve forgot to close the other door,” he muttered. “Calm down,” he shouted and thumped his fist against the door, but it didn’t calm Ares down at all. In fact, it caused an opposite reaction and the barking got wilder and louder.

“This is one of those occasions where I wouldn’t want to ask you in,” Castiel sighed. “He’s gonna be totally blind and deaf.”

“It’s alright. You boys need to spend some quality time anyway,” Sarah smiled. She pressed a kiss on Castiel’s lips. Castiel placed his hand on her waist and let the kiss linger for a few moments. Sarah took a step back and smiled.

“Be a good boy, Ares,” she said at the door, causing more whining and scratching. “I’ll see you tomorrow,” she said to Castiel and headed to the street. It’d be nice to get home.

Castiel looked after her and then sighed turning his attention to the door.

“Okay you idiot. I need you to sit down and be quiet.”

Sarah had just crossed the street when she heard a shout behind her.

“Ares! Back here right now! Sarah! Catch him!”

Sarah spun around and saw a black and brown dog dashing towards her as fast as his dog legs carried him. Castiel hot in pursuit a few metres after him.

“Ares!” Sarah’s voice was filled with surprise. How did he get out? She hurried towards the dog, trying to catch him.

Then, she heard a loud roar of a car engine and a thumbing bass. A car dashed towards them around the street corner. When the driver noticed a dog and a girl on the street, they slammed breaks and tried to veer to the side. Sarah staggered out of the way and her foot got caught on the edge of the side walk. She fell on the ground. The asphalt greeted her hard and unwelcoming. Castiel yelled but she didn’t hear the words.

There was a thud and a heart-breaking whimper. For a few seconds, the world was still until the sound of car speeding away broke it. Sarah was gasping for breath, her hands stinging after skin on her palms got scraped. But that didn’t matter. Her heart jumped to her throat when her eyes landed on Ares. He was lying on the side of the street, completely still.

Hands and legs shaking Sarah moved closer. Castiel got to them as well, and he fell to his knees next to Ares.

“A-ares?” A choked sniffle fell from his lips. “Buddy?”

Sarah’s throat was tight, and chest hurt when she watched Castiel check his dog with trembling hands. He leaned closer to listen to the heart beat. When Sarah strained her eyes, she saw Ares’s side rising just barely. He was breathing.

Castiel let out a relieved sighed but it barely calmed his nerves. Sarah noticed a small buddle of blood on the street and turned her eyes away.

“What do we do?” she asked. Castiel’s attention snapped on her, like he hadn’t remembered Sarah was there.

“We need to get him to a vet. He needs treatment. He can’t die. He can’t… I…”

“He won’t die. He’ll be alright,” Sarah reassured and wrapped her arms around Castiel.

“Those fucking idiots. Who gave them a driving license? And they drove away! Who hits a dog and drives away? If I find them, I’ll kill them. If Ares dies because of them I swear I’ll fucking kill them.”

Sarah’s heart wrenched and she hugged Castiel tighter. He was shaking and his heart hammered so hard in his chest Sarah could feel it.

“I… I’ll call mum. She can take us to the vet. Ares will be fine.”

She started to search for her phone. Her palms were still stinging. She started to feel aches in her legs too. There was a hole in the knee of her jeans, but she hadn’t noticed yet. Castiel caught a glimpse of the broken skin and few drops of blood when Sarah was scrolling through her contact list. He grabbed her hand so quickly she almost dropped her phone.

“You were hurt too?” he asked, words nearly choking in his throat.

“I just tripped. I’m fine. Don’t worry about me.”

“Good. I don’t know what I would’ve… If you had been hurt too… I…”

“Shh, it’s alright,” Sarah whispered and pulled Castiel closer again. He was brushing Ares’s fur. A low growl rumbled in the dog’s chest, and Castiel moved his hand away.

After a few seconds, mum answered the phone and Sarah’s posture straightened.

“Mum? Can you bring a car and blankets? Ares has been hit by a car. We need to get it to a vet. Turn right from Mapleton Drive to Oakley Street. You’ll see us. Please come quick.”

Sarah’s mum didn’t even have time to say anything back when Sarah already ended the call.

“She’ll come soon,” Sarah said. Castiel nodded but didn’t take his eyes off Ares. “Should we do something to him? To help?”

“I don’t know. I don’t know what to do.”

“It’s alright. Mum will come to help us.”

A few painfully long minutes passed before they heard a car. It stopped next to them and Sarah’s mum jumped out.

“Oh my god. Is it alright?” she asked right away.

“Alive at least. We need to get him to a hospital. Did you bring the blankets?”

“Yes. In the back of the car.”

Sarah hurried to pull out the blanket and spread it on the street as close to Ares as possible.

“We need to slide him on it,” Castiel said. He placed his hand on Ares’s hip, and he had barely touched it, when Ares snapped his head towards Castiel’s arm and growled furiously.

“Boy, I’m sorry but I have to do this,” Castiel said. He tried again and teeth flashed towards him again. Ares tried to get up but could barely lift his upper body before collapsing back down.

“Maybe we should put this around his mouth?” Sarah asked and unwrapped her scarf. The thought of muzzling Ares felt bad, but they didn’t need a bite injury on top of all this.

Castiel nodded and took the scarf. Ares growled at him but didn’t do anything when Castiel carefully lifted his head. He wrapped the scarf around his muzzle and made sure the knot would hold but wasn’t too tight.

After that Castiel and Sarah’s mother got back to work. Ares growled and whimpered but they managed to move him on the blanket and pick him up from the ground. Slowly they walked to the boot of the car and placed him inside. Everyone hurried to the car and mum was already speeding towards the emergency vet before they had all fastened their seatbelts.

Sarah stared at her bandaged hands. Castiel paced in the hallway glancing at the clock every few seconds. Sarah’s mum had gone to get some coffee, but since she had been gone for a good while already, Sarah suspected she just wanted to give Castiel and Sarah time on their own.

“Castiel, come sit down, please,” Sarah said. Castiel stopped his pacing.

“Why is it taking so long?” he asked, running his hands through his hair. “It’s been hours.”

“They’re just doing thorough job. Making sure everything’s gonna be good.”

“But it shouldn’t take this long. What if something else has come up?”

“I’m sure they would’ve told us. Come here. I’m sure they’ll bring us news soon.”

Castiel walked to the benches and dropped next to Sarah. She wrapped her arms around him and held him close.

“The doctor said Ares would recover. His spine wasn’t damaged. He’s a strong boy so he’ll get better soon.”

“I know but I can’t help but worry.”

“I know. It’s alright to worry.”

Sarah’s mum came back with two cups of coffee. She gave one to Castiel who took it but didn’t drink. He stared at the black liquid and tried to swallow down the lump in his throat.

“Any news?” mum asked, and Sarah shook her head.

But right then a door opened and a vet in surgery gear walked out. Castiel jumped up and nearly spilled his coffee.

“The surgery has finished,” the vet said. “Ares had a dislocated hip, a broken bone in his leg and some laceration. He will recover but he has to stay here at least until tomorrow.”

Castiel’s shoulder slumped in relief. Sarah smiled.

“That’s wonderful. Thank you so much.”

“You’re welcome. It will take him six to eight weeks to recover but after that he should be fine. He is young and strong dog.”

“Can I see him?” Castiel asked.

“Of course. He’s still sleeping but you can come visit him.”

The vet led the way and Castiel went after him. Sarah hesitated to follow. Maybe Castiel wanted to have a moment alone with Ares. She should stay back with mum. Castiel noticed she wasn’t following and turned to look.

“Aren’t you coming?” he asked.

“Oh, I just thought you’d want to have the moment with Ares,” Sarah said.

Castiel smiled softly and reached out his hand. “He’d want to see you too.”

Something light fluttered in Sarah’s chest when she took Castiel’s hand and followed him.

Ares looked miserable in his cage. His hind leg was in cast and bandaged. There were patches and stitches on his side and a big plastic cone made sure he wouldn’t lick any of his wounds. Sarah felt prickling in the corners of her eyes when she looked at Ares. He looked so miserable. Castiel squeezed her hand, and Sarah leaned closer to him.

“I want to stay here with him,” Castiel said.

“What? Castiel, you can’t. We have school tomorrow.”

“I don’t give a shit about school when my boy is hurt. Can I stay?”

“It’s not something we usually allow.”

“Please.”

“Castiel, I know you’re worried but there’s nothing you can do for Ares here. It’d be better to go home and rest.”

“But–“

“We’ll come tomorrow. Ares needs rest and so do you.”

“I agree with the lady,” the vet said, “Ares is well cared for here. You have had a rough day too. It’s better to go and wind down. We will call if something changes.”

“I– Fine.” Castiel sighed. “Let’s go home.”

They returned to Sarah’s mum who was waiting at the hallway.

“How was he?” she asked.

“Sleeping. But he’ll be fine,” Sarah replied. Castiel muttered something about going to the bathroom.

“Can I stay over at Castiel’s tonight?” Sarah asked when Castiel was out of the hearing distance.

“Why?”

“I don’t want him to be alone. He’s shattered from all this. Ares is important to him. I don’t want him to deal with this alone.”

Mum was quiet for a moment.

“Fine. But remember to behave. And you better go to school tomorrow.”

“Of course. Thank you.”

“It’s sweet to see that you’re so close. He seems like a good boy.”

“Yeah, he is.”

Sarah hoped Castiel’s and mum’s first meeting would’ve been something more cheerful than this.

When Castiel came back they headed to the car. Sarah and Castiel were in the backseat while the radio hummed quietly.

“Sarah?” Castiel’s voice was quiet.

“Yes?”

“I… Do you think you could stay over tonight?”

“Of course. I already asked mum. I was gonna ask if you want company.”

“Thank you.” Castiel pressed a soft kiss on Sarah’s head. He didn’t want to be alone now. The house would be too big and too quiet, too lonely.

“Remember to call if something comes up. I’ll bring you a change of clothes and your school bag later,” Sarah’s mum shouted from the car window. Sarah waved at her and walked in the house with Castiel. The car stayed for a few moments after house door closed. Sarah’s mother wasn’t sure if it was a good idea to let Sarah be alone with a boy. But maybe she knew what she was doing. Grace sighed and reversed the car to the street. At least she had given an excuse to check up on them later.

It was quiet and dark in the house, and Castiel hurried to turn on lights so that the place wouldn’t feel so dead. Sarah left her bag by the door and followed him inside. Castiel stood in the middle of the living room, staring at the dog toys scattered on the floor. His shoulders were shaking, and his breathing was shaky gasps. Castiel wiped his eyes with the back of his hand. Sarah walked to him and wrapped him to a hug. Castiel buried his face on her shoulder and tears soaked in her shirt. She rubbed Castiel’s back in slow circles, hoping it’d bring some comfort.

“It’s alright,” she whispered when Castiel sobbed. “It’s alright.” She didn’t know what else to say but felt like she should say something.

After a few minutes, the biggest rush of emotions passed. Castiel sat on the couch wiping his cheeks dry. Sarah brought him a mug of tea.

“I can’t believe this all happened because he managed to slip outside when I opened the door,” Castiel sniffed “I should’ve grabbed him, but he was so fast. If I just caught his collar, nothing would’ve happened.”

“Don’t. Don’t think like that. It’s not your fault. Don’t blame yourself.”

Castiel didn’t say anything. Sarah touched his shoulder.

“Seriously. It was an accident. You didn’t do anything wrong. It’s–”

“I know! I know! But I can’t help it that I feel like shit, okay? I know you’re trying to make me feel better, but it doesn’t help.”

The anger in Castiel’s voice made Sarah flinch. A lump formed in her stomach.

“I’m sorry. I’ll leave you alone for a bit,” she whispered and stood up, heading to the kitchen.

Castiel put the mug down and buried his face in his hands. He let out a frustrated groan.

“Fuck.”

Sarah found refuge in the kitchen and decided to make dinner to pass time and calm her own nerves. She knew this was a shocking situation — she was shaken too — and emotions ran high, but she couldn’t help feeling hurt by Castiel’s outburst. She was just trying to help.

A pot of rice was boiling on the stove and chicken was frying in the pan. Sarah had just picked cream from the fridge when Castiel knocked on the doorframe. He had a sheepish look on his face.

“Can I come in?” he asked.

“It’s your house,” Sarah replied sounding colder than she had wanted to. She dropped chopped carrot bits on the pan with the chicken before pouring the cream over them.

Castiel sighed and walked in and placed the empty tea mug on the counter. He took steps closer to Sarah but stayed a respectable distance away.

“I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have taken my frustration out on you. You were just trying to help. I’m sorry.”

“I know.”

Castiel walked behind Sarah and placed one hand on her back cautiously in case he would get smacked away with a spatula. When no smack came, he wrapped his arms around her waist.

“So, am I forgiven?” he asked with his chin resting on her head.

“Yes, you are forgiven.”

Castiel smiled and kissed her hair. A smile rose on Sarah’s face too. She appreciated the apology. Castiel continued to press kisses on her hair, eventually reaching her cheek and neck. Sarah squirmed and giggled.

“What are you doing?” she laughed.

“Conciliating,” Castiel replied kissing her again.

“But I said there was no need.”

“I’m doing this just in case,” he smirked. Gently he turned Sarah’s head towards him, so he could kiss her lips.

“Well, it is smart to play it safe,” Sarah hummed with a playful smile on her face. “But if you don’t let me continue cooking, we’ll have burnt rice for dinner.”

Castiel let out a disappointed sigh and eased his hold of Sarah. She shook her head, amused, and turned back to the pots. She stirred the chicken sauce and the rice a bit before turning off the heat.

“If you could set the table?” she said to Castiel.

“Whatever lady wants,” he replied, bowing and a twinkle of amusement in his eyes.

“Pssh, get started then.” Sarah smacked him gently in the arm. Laughing, Castiel headed to the cupboard to fetch plates.

They ate in silence and washed dishes in silence. Sarah was happy how the food had turned out. She had just picked up something from the cupboards.

When Sarah was drying the last plates, the doorbell rang.

“Probably mum,” Sarah said. She was about to head to the door but Castiel offered to go.

He marched to the door and opened it. Indeed, Sarah’s mother stood outside with two bags in her hands. She looked surprised to see Castiel at the door which Castiel thought weird since it was indeed his home.

“I brought Sarah her school bag and a change of clothes,” she said. “Where is she?”

“Finishing up the dishes. I can give these to her.”

Grace hesitated for a moment. She was wondering if she should ask to see Sarah to check if she was alright. She was hesitant on leaving her daughter alone with a young man. She would’ve wanted to more about this Castiel first. She hadn’t mentally prepared herself for Sarah finding a boyfriend even though she had wished it to happen for years. It felt unreal now that it had happened, and so suddenly. But Sarah was a very smart kid. She wouldn’t spend time with a troublesome person.

She decided to give the bags to Castiel.

“I’m going to be honest. I don’t really want to leave Sarah here with you, but she likes you so I’m willing to trust you. You’d better behave.”

“Ma’am, I can guarantee you I’m not interested in anything you might be worried about right now,” Castiel sighed. “And I’ll always treat Sarah the way she deserves to be treated.”

Grace looked at Castiel in the tired eyes for a few long seconds before nodding.

“Let her know she can call or come home anytime she wants,” she said before turning around. “Have a nice evening.”

“Thank you. You too.”

After that, Castiel closed the door and returned to the living room. He dropped the bags next to the stairs. Sarah came from the kitchen wiping the last water drops to her jeans.

“So, it was mum?” she asked when she noticed the bags. “Did she say anything?”

“Just wanted to tell you that you can come home at any point if I’m being awful to you.”

“What? Did she really say that?”

“Well, not directly but she heavily implied it. But it’s alright. I don’t really care.”

Sarah sighed. It made sense mum would be suspicious. She didn’t know Castiel had been with her at dad’s place. They hadn’t really talked much while waiting for Ares. She would’ve been more trusting if she knew dad had met Castiel already and approved him.

“Don’t take it too personally. She’ll warm up to you when she gets to know you better.”

“Yeah. But I think I’ll go to my room.” Castiel’s voice was tired, and Sarah’s brow furrowed slightly.

“Do you want to be alone?” she asked, gently touching his arm.

“Maybe for a little while. Like twenty minutes? If you don’t mind.”

“Okay. Take as much time as you need.” Sarah pressed a kiss on Castiel’s cheek. He kissed her back and headed upstairs.

Sarah sighed and picked up her school bag. She felt so bad for Castiel and hoped there was something she could’ve done for him. Giving him space was one thing, but she wanted to do more. But maybe Castiel would tell her what he wanted, and then she could help. But right now, she could only wait for him to say something.

Sarah was curled up in the corner of couch skimming through her German book. It felt like an entire week had passed since she had last been at school, and her mind hadn’t really been in studying, so a reminder of the latest chapter’s vocabulary wasn’t a bad idea in case there was a surprise quiz or something else equally fun waiting for her in next class. Clock ticked on the wall almost unbearably loud in the otherwise quiet house, and Sarah found it hard to focus. Or perhaps it was her thoughts that kept wandering to Castiel upstairs that made reading an impossible task.

When melancholic tunes of the guitar started playing upstairs, Sarah packed her books. She climbed the stairs slowly, listening to the sad melody that tugged her heartstrings. The door to Castiel’s room was half open, and she slipped inside without making a sound.

Castiel was sitting on his bed guitar in hand. He didn’t look at Sarah when she walked in or when she sat down next to him on the bed. Sarah didn’t say anything. When the song ended and Castiel moved on to the next one, she leaned back and laid down on the bed. She closed her eyes and let herself be surrounded by the music, just as beautiful but sad as the song before.

After what felt like an hour but was closer to thirty minutes, Castiel put down the guitar. He didn’t want to play anymore. He had managed to let out what he had wanted to get rid of. It had been easier to do with music than with words. The guitar leaned against the bed, and he turned to look at Sarah. Her eyes were closed and breathing calm, so Castiel wasn’t sure if she was asleep.

He laid down on his side, resting his head against his hand and watched Sarah. She looked so peaceful. He trailed a finger along her arm and wrapped her hand in his. A smile rose on Sarah’s face, and she squeezed his fingers.

“Oh, you weren’t asleep.”

“Just barely awake,” she muttered and opened her eyes. “The music was beautiful.”

Castiel didn’t reply. He examined Sarah’s face and brushed her cheek with his fingers. Sarah leaned in to the touch and closed her eyes again for a moment. Castiel’s hands were so gentle and soft.

“How are you feeling?” Sarah asked, in turn watching the expressions shift on Castiel’s face.

“Slightly better.”

“That’s good. Do you want to do something?”

“Just stay here for a bit.”

Sarah smiled and snuggled closer to Castiel. He wrapped his arms around her and pressed her against his chest. Sarah rested her hand on his side and ran her thumb over his ribs. Castiel’s heartbeat was loud but calm in her ears.

Castiel ran one hand up and down Sarah’s back while lost in his thoughts. How good it was that Sarah was here. He would’ve been lost without her, a total mess alone with his thoughts. But she calmed down his nerves and steadied him on the ground, so his mind didn’t jump to the worst scenarios and darkest possibilities. He was so grateful.

Then out of nowhere, Sarah squirmed, and Castiel stopped. He looked at Sarah who was trying to hide her flushed face against his chest.

“What was that?”

“Nothing. Sorry.”

An idea sparked in Castiel’s mind and a tiny grin tugged his lips. He touched the same spot again, and Sarah squirmed again.

“This doesn’t tickle, does it?” he asked slyly.

“Not at all,” Sarah said but a little squeak that escaped her mouth from another touch told Castiel otherwise. Sarah could feel a chuckle rumbling in his chest.

“Don’t even think⁠–“

It was too late. Castiel’s fingers ran down her side and made Sarah squeal and squirm. She twisted away from Castiel’s hold and tried to roll away, but Castiel grabbed her again and pulled her closer. Sarah laughed and wiggled until she decided that attack would be the best defence. She dug in as well, managing to poke a sensitive spot on Castiel’s side on her first attempt.

Castiel let out an odd muffled gasp before the grin widened on his face. Sarah knew this was her only chance and launched a full on tickle assault that made Castiel twist and try to dodge the tickling fingers. He laughed out loud.

“Oh, now you’ve done it.”

Sarah laughed and tried to escape again, but Castiel took advantage of his size and pinned Sarah against the bed. He loomed over her, chest heaving, and cheeks red. Sarah tried to muffle a giggle. She was blushing and out of breath as well, but laughter still bubbled in her chest and escaped when she looked at Castiel in the eyes.

“You’re a little devil,” Castiel grinned.

“Are you an angel then?”

“Fuck no.” The words came out as a heavy breath when he leaned down to kiss Sarah. He was far away from an angel but there was no doubt that Sarah would’ve made him fall. Well, she already had.

Sarah smiled against his lips and cupped Castiel’s face in her hands keeping him close. Her chest filled with heat that spread on her face. The kiss was long and heavy. When their lips parted both were out of breath but smiling. Sarah tucked a strand of hair behind Castiel’s ear and let her touch linger on his cheek for a moment.

Castiel’s phone buzzed in his pocket. Castiel sighed and moved away from Sarah. She sat up as well, trying to fix her ruffled hair. Castiel saw Leon’s name on the screen. He opened the message.

Hey. Just thought to check if you’re home already or if I need to check on Ares again.

Castiel bit his lip.

I’m already home. Thanks for the help. I owe you one.

No problem. Was he alright? I took him out this morning and gave some food.

Castiel’s thumbs hovered over the keyboard.

Yeah, he’s alright.

Good to hear. Do you want to do something tonight?

Sorry but Sarah’s staying over today. Maybe tomorrow or something?

Sounds good. Don’t let me keep you. Try to remember sleep too ;)

🖕

:P

“Who was it?” Sarah asked when Castiel put his phone away. She moved closer to the edge of the bed.

“Leon. Asked how Ares was.”

“Did you tell him what happened?”

“No. I don’t really want to talk about it with him right now. Or make him think it was his fault.”

“I understand.”

“I might tell tomorrow. I don’t know yet.”

“Are you gonna tell your parents?”

Castiel let out a heavy sigh.

“I suppose I should.”

“But you can do that tomorrow too if you want to. Whatever you feel like is the best.”

“I can call them now, I think. If my dad picks up. I’m not calling mum. I do have something else I need to talk about too.”

Mum would start fussing and shouting, and Castiel didn’t have the energy for it. His dad would be calmer, and it’d be easier to talk about what had happened without constant worried babbling.

Castiel picked up his phone again and scrolled the contact list to find his dad’s number.

“Do you want me to go or…?” Sarah asked with a worried wrinkle in her brow.

“I’d like if you stayed.”

Sarah nodded and moved a bit closer to Castiel so she could lean against his arm. Maybe it’d provide some support or calm his nerves. At least he smiled, so Sarah assumed he appreciated the gesture.

After a few seconds, Castiel’s dad picked up the phone. Sarah was close enough to hear his voice without the phone being on speaker. There was some noise and clunking of dishes on the background. Franz’s voice was surprised. Sarah wondered if he was in a café or a restaurant.

“Hello? Castiel?”

“Hi, dad.”

“You don’t usually call. Is everything alright?”

Castiel didn’t answer right away, and it added a worried pitch to his dad’s voice.

“Castiel? Did something happen? Are you hurt?”

Sarah squeezed Castiel’s hand reassuringly just in case he needed some support.

“I’m fine. But Ares got hit by a car.”

“What? What happened? Is he…?”

“He’s alright. He had a dislocated hip and broken bone. He managed to slip out when I opened the door and ran to the road. Some idiot hit him and drove away. Sarah’s mum helped us to get him to the vet.”

Castiel’s dad sighed in relief.

“Good to hear that he’s alright. What did the vet say about recovery?”

“He should be fine but needs at least eight weeks to rest. We’ll get him back home tomorrow.”

“That’s good.”

“I’m gonna stay home to look after him.”

Sarah looked at Castiel. He was going to skip school? Of course, it was understandable, but Sarah wasn’t sure if it was very smart. They had exams coming soon and everything. Franz seemed to wonder that as well because he was quiet for a while.

“I’ll do it whether you approve or not. I just thought I’d let you know.”

Franz sighed.

“Fine. I’ll write your teacher about it. Your mother and I still have some work to do, but we’ll come home as soon as we can. Have you told her about this?”

“Not yet. You can tell if you want.”

“I will. But I must go now. Take care. I’ll see you soon.”

“You too. See ya. Bye.”

Castiel closed the phone and threw it on the bed. He sighed and ran his hands through his hair.

“So, you’re going to skip school?” Sarah asked.

“I don’t want to leave Ares here alone. Just a few weeks until he gets a bit better.”

“I understand. I’m not going to judge you. I don’t think I’d be comfortable with leaving my pet alone either if I had one. I can bring you your homework.” Sarah smiled and bumped Castiel’s shoulder with her own. A perfect reason to see him more often.

“Perfect plan. Maybe you could stay here as well?”

“I would love that, but I think mum would have a heart attack if I suggested it,” Sarah laughed. Sarah was sure living together with Castiel would be wonderful, but maybe it was a bit too early for it. And in a stressful situation like this, it was probably better that they both got some space for themselves. And Ares could be stressed out about a new person in the house, even if he already knew Sarah. And she didn’t want that to happen.

“I must enjoy your company while I still can then,” Castiel sighed. “Do you want to watch a movie?” He could use some distraction for his thoughts.

“Sure, why not.”

The afternoon turned into evening. The movie had finished a while ago, and after that Castiel and Sarah hadn’t done much. They had spent hours sitting next to each other on the couch and scrolling through their phones, sometimes showing a funny meme or a cute animal picture to each other. It had been nice and peaceful. It wasn’t necessary to always do something. It was nice to just be sometimes.

Sarah was drying her hair after a shower. It was almost time to go to bed, and she wasn’t a morning shower person. She ruffled her hair one more time before dropping the towel in the laundry basket. She quickly brushed her teeth as well, and then she was ready.

The air felt chilly after a warm shower, and Sarah shivered while climbing up the stairs to Castiel’s room. He was preparing for a shower as well, only wearing his boxers. Sarah stopped at the door, heart thumping at the view and cheeks catching some warmth. She was about to look away and knock on the door when Castiel noticed her. He turned to face her better.

“Enjoying the view?” he asked, spreading his hands with a confident grin on his face.

Sarah’s face flushed deep red, and she tried to hide it behind her toiletry bag and clothes. Castiel chuckled. He walked to her and gently removed Sarah’s hands from covering her face. She couldn’t look at him, but Castiel lifted her chin slightly. Embarrassed, Sarah met Castiel’s eyes. He smiled softly.

“Don’t worry. I’m very much liking what I see as well,” he said letting his eyes drop to Sarah’s body for a few seconds. It didn’t help Sarah’s heart calm down in the slightest. Castiel ran his thumb over Sarah’s lips and pressed a kiss on her still damp hair before moving away. He winked before walking out of the room.

Sarah felt like she could crumble on the floor. She whimpered and moved to the bed, sitting down. Her heart was thrumming. How did Castiel always manage to make her like this so easily? Sarah buried her face in her hands. Castiel was such a tease. She hoped she had the courage to act with similar confidence. She was curious to know how Castiel would react to it.

While waiting for Castiel, Sarah made sure all her stuff was properly backed. Clothes in one bag and school books in other. After that was done (it didn’t take more than few minutes), she wandered around the room, looking at the items that were in display. Another look at Castiel’s CD filled bookcase revealed that he indeed had similar music collection than her dad. She recognized many of the names in the backs of the albums. Although there was also music Sarah had never heard about and knew his dad wouldn’t listen either.

Feeling restless but not wanting to look like she was snooping around, Sarah laid down on the bed. She stretched her body and relaxed with a sigh. The day had been long, and it’d be nice to get some sleep.

Castiel’s footsteps sounded from the hallway, and Sarah sat up. Castiel walked in, still in boxers but now it was a new pair. His hair was tussled. Sarah made sure not to look at him for too long.

“Ready for bed?” Castiel asked.

Sarah nodded and buried herself under the duvet. Castiel turned off the lights and climbed next to her. Sarah scooched closer until her chest nearly touched his back. Small voice of uncertainty reminded her to leave Castiel some space in case he didn’t like the idea of sleeping like this. A bit shy, she put arm over Castiel’s waist and almost flinched when he took her hand and pulled it close to his chest. Sarah smiled and snuggled closer. She could figure out where to put her other arm later.

“Thank you for being here,” Castiel whispered and kissed her knuckles.

“Of course. I lo– I like you so much.”

“I like you a lot too.”

Snuggled close together, the day’s worries didn’t feel so heavy. Breathing in same calm pace, they soon drifted off to sleep.