(no subject)
Title: It's a Nice Day: Part 2.
Author: bitchandjerk
Characters: Sam/Dean,John/Mary/OFC OMCs OFCs Jared/Jensen
Rating :R
Words10,000/3,698,900
Warnings: Wincest
Summary: Sam and Dean ring in the new year.
Notes:: AU, rest are here.
Disclaimer: I don't own any of these characters.
Feedback: Makes me hard
It took Michael an entire seven minutes to realize that Jeremy wasn't around. He might have even noticed sooner, but he was busy getting congratulations and hugs and chatting with friends from school he hadn't seen since break started. Sam was watching closely and after seven minutes Michael whispered something to Alex who immediately began to scan the crowd. He looked for Aaron first and found him chatting with a few people, then he looked for John who was with the kids and finally, he looked over at Sam and mouthed Jeremy's name while sort of shrugging.
Sam wasn't entirely sure how to handle the situation so he shrugged back and then smiled at Alex, who smiled back bigger than he ever had in his entire life. Michael hadn't had an easy life, no one was going to argue with that, but Alex's life wasn't all sunshine and rainbows either. He grew up with completely disinterested parents and a father who threw him out the second he realized who he was. He was so in love with Justin and they had their whole future planned out. After he died Alex fell into what certainly seemed like it would have been a never ending depression and an early self inflicted death, but lucky for him some years earlier Dean had knocked Jenny up and someone had to teach Mikey.
Alex deserved the beautiful wedding just as much as Michael did and while Sam would have done things differently and made things a bit more lavish, he certainly wasn't disappointed with that he saw in the reception tent. Sam personally didn't care for big round tables, but they worked best to properly utilize and maximize the space. The tables were dressed in white cloths with an embroidered and beaded cream colored overlay. It really was gorgeous and Michael had chosen simple white plates rimmed in silver, pretty standard flatware, and an assortment of sparkling wine and water glasses. The napkins were the same white as the tablecloths, but they were cuffed with a wide border of sparking silver beads, which was beautiful and completely impractical, Sam's favorite combination.
The centerpieces were low, round, and wide, taking up most of the center of the table and really only leaving a big enough perimeter for the plates. Michael had chosen roses in white and cream because that was a given, he had beautiful antique colored hydrangeas, frilly tulips and massive peonies. The base of the arrangements were covered in bright green moss and there were dozens of candles all in mismatched containers. It really was beautiful and nice compromise between the lavishness of Sam's own wedding and the simplicity of Jared and Jensen's.
The most impressive part of the entire setup was that the entire back wall of the tent was one huge wall of flowers and moss. It was truly phenomenal, one of the most amazing things Sam had ever seen. The entire wall was moss and there were thousands of roses tucked into it. It was going to make an amazing backdrop for photos and it really set the tone for the wedding as soon as anyone stepped into the tent.
There was a small booth for the DJ, three separate bars, a photo booth that was cleverly disguised, some ridiculous chocolate foundation and a table with an outrageous looking cake. Sam had three hundred people at his wedding and he had order the cake accordingly. Alex and Michael maybe had a hundred, and that cake was enough for at least four times as many. It was so beautiful with lots of hand piped details that was all painted silver. It was almost too pretty too cut, but Sam knew Ethan and Evan weren't going to let that happen whether Michael liked it or not.
"Rawr! Rawrrrrrr!"
Sam chuckled to himself and then glanced down and prepared to fight off what was no doubt an absolutely ferocious red bear that had come down out of the mountains looking for cake and maybe chicken fingers. He found an absolutely terrifying and formidable foe, who still had his arms up in the air and his fingers curled like claws. Sam attempted to knock him over with his foot, but Milo latched on and tried his very best to bite him.
"Get up here you crazy ring bear!"
"Growl!" Milo said as Sam picked him up. "Daddy, a bear."
"I saw, I was terrified."
"I teach you. Rawr! Say like rawr!"
"Rawr!" Sam growled. "You know uncle Bobby's a bear, right?"
"Mmhmm." Milo nodded. "Moo! Rawr!"
"A bear doesn't moo!"
"Rawra-doodle-doo!"
"That's short daddy's absolute favorite animal."
"A woostah?"
"Sort of." Sam smiled. "You kiss me right now, mister! Right on the lips!"
When Sam puckered up Milo rewarded him with three quick kisses, which were absolutely sensational. Him and Mary had done a really excellent job with the wedding and he was very proud of them. In fact there probably wasn't a better ring bear in the entire world. Milo probably could have taught classes on how to do it right, so other little boys could learn a thing or two.
"Ow! Daddy!"
"I got you!" Jensen said as he bit Milo's butt again. "Twice!"
"Daddy! He eat me! Make me so mad!"
"You bit me first!"
"Say who?"
"Literally everyone here!"
"Daddy, did you see it?"
"Nope." Sam shrugged. "Didn't see a thing."
"Well, not the first time I've been called a liar."
"Jensen..."
"It's a joke Sam. And to be honest...this could have waited until after the movie."
Sam really did feel bad and knowing that it could have waited didn't make him feel any better. He had kind of overreacted to the whole thing when in the grand scheme of things it didn't really matter all that much. The movie was going to be done on time regardless of whether or not they pushed it back a couple of week. It was only going to take a couple of weeks to film and the rest was all post production and with such a huge budget, Sam was sure they could do that in record time.
"I am sorry though."
"Forget about it."
"I need you to do me a huge favor."
"Anything."
"Michael's making his way over here. I need you to turn on the charm and keep him away from me."
"What...why would...?"
"Can you trust me?" Sam asked. "Please. Do whatever it is you have to do."
Michael was moving in pretty fast and Sam had just enough time to pretend like he didn't see him before he darted through the crowd with Milo. When he got some distance between them he looked back and saw Jensen giving Michael a hug before he proceeded to let his left crutch slip out from under him. He fell into Michael who fell into someone else and they both ended up on the floor. Sam really didn't need Jensen to literally lay his life down as a distraction, but he had and it worked like a charm because Michael was very concerned with making sure he was okay.
Sam very quickly made it to the house with Milo and ducked in the back door so he could try and find Dean and figure out what the hell was going on and more importantly what the hell they were going to say when asked questions they couldn't possibly answer. Sam knew he was somewhere in the house and he was very easy to find since he was arguing quite passionately, with the last person he ever seemed to argue with.
"You're not helping!"
"You're not telling me what to do!"
"Jesus, mom!" Dean yelled. "Do I look like I know what to fucking do!"
"Don't you use that kind of language in front of us!"
"Hey." Sam said as he stepped into the kitchen. "Really?"
Dean had Buster and Carol had Mary and all of them looked like they had been caught in the middle of an all out war. Milo seemed to sense something was up so he shimmied down Sam and went over to tug on Mary's foot until Carol put her down. They both wandered off to the other side of the kitchen where they had a little play area set up and began to busy themselves with coloring. Seeing them get along was pretty much the final straw for Sam because he couldn't handle any other totally weird shit.
"You go upstarts and...take Buster with you and we'll tell dad that you have...a yeast infection."
"Excuse me?"
"You take Buster and if dad asks where you are we'll tell him your vagina is like...sick."
"First of all, that's gross, secondly, my grandson just got married. I'm not going to hide upstairs."
"Then you lie to dad when he asks where Jeremy is. Like we practiced, you tell him Jeremy had to leave because one of the meth heads he counsels was threatening to blow her brains out."
"Jesus, Dean." Sam whispered. "That's the best you could come up with?"
"I guess you can do better?"
"The truth?"
"Don't be stupid." Carol said as she shook her head. "Seriously, Sam?"
"Okay, that was uncalled for."
"I'm sorry, Sam, I don't know what to do. I can't ruin tonight for your father or Michael."
"Fine." Sam sighed. "Who didn't show up? It has to be one of our friends."
"Ethan's not here." Dean said. "They go to his dad's house every year."
"Okay. He...slipped? He slipped outside and Jeremy took him to the ER. Can't have a phone on in the hospital so no one will call and no one will call to check up on Ethan."
"Fine." Dean said. "I'm still telling everyone she has a yeast infection."
"No, you won't daddy." Mary yelled from across the room. "Don't even!"
"Fine...whatever."
"You right, whatever!"
"We good?" Sam asked. "Let's just...keep our shit together and deal with this tomorrow."
"Fine with me." Carol said. "Good plan, Sam."
"Yeah, thanks."
After quickly changing Buster's diaper, Sam left with Dean and the babies to get back to the party. They made it about fifteen feet before Michael pretty much popped out of thin air and demanded to know just what the hell was going on. Sam started to say something and stopped, and Dean just completely ignored him because they could lie, no problem, but neither of them could lie to Michael on such an important day. Carol, as always was more than willing to take one for the team and she explained how Ethan had slipped, possibly aggravating an old football injury and Jeremy's car was the closest so he volunteered to drive him to the ER.
It wasn't a great story, but given that Sam had less then fifteen seconds to come up with it, he thought it was pretty good, plausible at least. Michael seemed very suspicious, but instead of asking a lot of questions he just nodded and shrugged before taking Milo so they could go get into some stuff. Carol followed closely behind him with Mary and made sure to shoot Sam and Dean her stank eye to let them know she was none too happy.
"Mother fucker." Dean sighed. "How did we not see this coming?"
"We didn't want to?" Sam said cautiously. "Dean, they haven't been the same since Jeremy came back and Max just further complicated things."
"How long has this been going on?"
"Long enough for Jeremy to get a place of his own. Can we just...not tonight. For Michael and Alex let's just not..."
"So I just ignore you think that trying to kill yourself makes you some macho man?"
"You know that's not what I meant."
Having Dean be so upset around so many people was a disaster waiting to happen. When he got upset and didn't know how to process it, he always ended up lashing out repeatedly at any little thing anyone said. Sam of course hadn't meant to imply that he went to the bridge because he was strong, but he sure as hell wasn't going to be called weak. Out of everything he had done deciding to give up required tremendous strength. It was wrong and selfish, and stupid, but it sure as hell wasn't weak. Dean hadn't been weak either, he was just tired, they both were, but it was in the past.
"I'm sorry."
"We just need a plan because Michael's too smart to not put things together."
"I got a plan." Dean sighed. "You got money?"
"On me?"
"No, just in general."
For Dean's plan to work they had to get Alex alone, which was a lot harder than either of them thought it would be. Not only was he sticking very close to Michael, but he wanted to see and talk to everyone before they started dinner. He was laughing and smiling and hugging everyone he could get close enough to, so Dean waited in line, got a hug and a kiss and then hooked his arm through Alex's to pull him away from the crowd. Michael looked suspicious all over again, but then Dean winked at him and got a little knowing smirk in return. He thought daddy was going to lay down the law, which could have been what was going on, since Sam was completely in the dark.
"It was perfect, right?"
"Absolutely." Dean smiled. "You're my best friend."
"I know!" Alex blushed. "Dad!"
"Oh, Jesus, don't call me that. Are you guys going anywhere for a little honeymoon?"
"Nah, we went on our big trip last summer and we've been in Vermont for so long, we just thought we'd hang out here for a while and then head home."
"That's ridiculous. Sam's going to call and have the jet ready to take you to..."
"Anywhere you want to go." Sam said. "Our treat."
"Really?"
"Anywhere. Why don't you take Michael to...uh, London."
"London?"
"Well, yeah." Sam shrugged. "You know the language, you love Ab Fab."
"Huh...Not a bad idea."
"Excellent. You'll leave tonight and don't worry about any of us back here. Just have fun."
"Okay, cut the bullshit, what the hell is going on?"
"I don't know what you mean." Dean laughed awkwardly. "I'm just trying to be nice."
"By making me abscond with your precious baby boy to another country? I'm not dumb, Dean."
"Aaron and Jeremy broke up. We don't want Michael to find out because it's going to upset him. If you keep him busy he won't have to find out until later."
"Just put it all out there, Sammy." Dean sighed. "Just be cool and do this."
"I've been married for less than a half hour and you want me to lie to..."
"No one said anything about lying."
Alex wasn't much of a liar to begin with, he was barely a fibber and as far as Sam knew he had been nothing but completely honest and transparent with Michael. The whole honeymoon thing was schemey, without a doubt, but no one had to lie to Michael, he just had to be occupied so he could have a good time and not worry about anything besides himself and Alex and all the great honeymoon sexing they could do over in the motherland.
"I don't like this." Alex said as he shook his head. "But he deserves a nice vacation away from..."
"From what exactly?"
Alex shrugged and then went back to join Michael who immediately took his hand and gave him a kiss on the cheek. Sam was awfully glad Alex didn't finish his thought because Dean would have gone off. He didn't have to say anything because they both knew exactly what was about to come out of his mouth. He thought Michael deserved some time away from what certainly seemed like an endless supply of bullshit. He made a friend who turned out to be a demon, he got Jason back, who was then promptly kidnapped by God, it was just a fucking mess and he deserved his perfect wedding and time away from everyone except for Alex. Sam completely agreed with that, but Dean was looking like he just got punched in the nuts three or four times.
"I am so pissed off."
"Dean, he's kinda right..."
"Not that. Jeremy couldn't have held it together for a couple more days? I mean they've both been lying to us for God only knows how long."
"Don't you think it was probably a little hard on him to see Michael getting married when him and Aaron weren't together anymore?"
"I'm done."
"What does that mean?"
"Done." Dean said again. "I'm going to go talk to our friends and have dinner and dance with you and the kids. Can you do whatever it is you do to make shit happen so that plane is waiting for them?"
"Consider it done."
"Thanks, Sammy. I want to get Buster in the tent. It's cold out here."
Getting a plane ready and waiting on New Year's Eve wasn't exactly easy, but Sam had it done in under fifteen minutes. He could probably rule the damned world with his cell phone. He could make pretty much anything happen, unfortunately, when it came to Jeremy and Aaron, Sam was well aware that there wasn't shit he could do.
Even though no one had asked for his help with choosing food for the wedding, which was his specialty, Dean was still pretty impressed. As soon as everyone had had a cocktail and was seated for dinner a whole fleet of waiters came out let everyone know what the specials were. Because they hadn't sent out invites beforehand the caterers had no idea what anyone would want. Luckily, Alex had a shit ton of money and he pretty much told them to prepare enough food to cover any combination of entrees.
The first course was an asparagus and truffle brulee, which sounded just fine to Dean. For the second course he got to choose between a smoked fennel and cucumber salad, butternut and coconut soup, or a prosciutto artichoke and endive salad. The entrees were pretty standard and included something for everyone. For real people there was a filet mignon on a potato leek galette with roasted vegetables. For the lesbians and hippies there was almond crusted salmon, and the people who had no right being on his property got a nice vegan pumpkin ravioli. Dean went with the steak obviously, while Sam got the fish and they both went with the soup because it sounded pretty good.
When the kids heard the menu the seemed less than impressed with all the fancy locally sourced organic ingredients. Dean was a little worried because besides the prosciutto and maybe the steak he didn't see much the kids would like. Big brother had them covered though because the waiter had a second menu of personalized pizzas, chicken fingers, hamburgers, hot dogs, french fries and mac and cheese. That made the kids very happy, but Ollie made sure that someone was going to bring him whatever the hell that prosciutto salad was all about.
While Dean waited for his fancy brulee, he looked over at Michael and Alex who looked like the last two people left in the whole world. They were sitting so close to each other sharing quite a few whispered secrets. Dean tried to eavesdrop a little, but he couldn't hear anything Alex whispered something into his ear and Michael whole face lit up. He smiled bigger than Dean had ever seen and his face flushed with just a little tinge of pink.
Sam might have thought that Michael deserved everything and Dean did agree, but he also had everything. His life was perfect and it was just going to get better. He had a beautiful home, a smart, caring, and loving husband, and before they knew it, it was going to be October and their little family was going to grow. Dean knew they were going to make amazing parents and while he couldn't wait to be a grandpa he was more excited for Michael and especially for Alex to be a dad.
Casey had the great honor of being one of the few people at the big important table who wasn't an official member of the family. She was sitting next to Ann and talking very enthusiastically about something. Dean had talked to her for a few minutes before the wedding, but he definitely wanted to spend some more time with her. He was really hoping for a little bump or even just a lump, but if she was showing her dress was hiding it well. Even without the bump, she looked beautiful and Dean absolutely could not wait for a little redheaded grandbaby to spoil completely rotten, even if ginger babies were born rotten already.
"Look at me, daddy!"
"What about you?" Dean asked as he looked over. "You're absolutely terrifying!"
"Grr!"
"A bear." Mary said as she shook her head. "I can't with him, daddy."
"You cannot even?"
"Cannot, lillyree cannot."
"You see, me, daddy?" Milo asked. "A big shot, a pretty big deal."
"Baby, you were the star of the show." Sam said as he hugged Milo to his chest. "Everyone is still talking about it. And Mary, your flower tossing was perfection."
"Right?" Mary laughed. "I do it."
"You know, Craig was telling me and daddy that maybe it's time for you to start dancing."
Mary looked at Sam and pretty much scoffed before doing her very best to toss her hair back. Dean loved his kids and he let them do whatever they wanted, but if she thought she was escaping a pink tutu and a bun, she was sorely mistaken. He had waited far too long for his princess, and she was taking ballet. Sam thought it was a great idea and she could go to the little studio in town and maybe make some friends and it would be perfect, but Mary could not have cared less.
"You will either be a ballerina, or leave this house and never come back."
"I got more houses."
"She's got you there." Sam said. "I'm a little suspicious of this menu."
"It sounds amazing, Sammy."
"I know, it's just..." Sam said before raising his voice. "I thought for sure Alex would want to serve young succulent veal and Michael would want hillbilly vittles. It's almost elegant."
"I heard that!" Michael said as he looked over. "Why are you so jealous of my beautiful wedding?"
"My sweet big boy, I don't think you have Yonce waiting in the wings to perform."
"I ain't overcompensatin'. Had damned orchid trees. Husband!"
"Hmm?" Alex asked as he looked over. "What's wrong?"
"That man over there is bothering me and I'm not going to sit here and be disrespected."
"Dad. Stop being a bitch."
"Stop calling us dad!"
Dean was just about to smack the shit out of Alex so he didn't make calling them dad a habit when the first course arrived. For a first course, the brulee was awfully big. Dean was expecting a little ramekin that he could finish off in a couple of bites, but it came in a pretty substantial custard cup. There was a thick layer of caramelized cheese on top and as soon as the waiter put it down, Dean dug his fork into it and had a taste. He burned of mouth of course, but it was delicious and he didn't even care that the asparagus was going to make him have smelly peeps. The kids all got one brulee to share, but they also got big plates of French fries, which Dean stole a few of.
"Oh, my God." Sam whispered. "Dean..."
"It's good, right?" Dean grinned. "Not too shabby."
"No, look."
"Hmm?"
When Dean looked up, he immediately sucked up his breath a little. Because the wedding had been a surprise, some people that absolutely should have been there hadn't come because they were under the impression it was just a party. Michael didn't seem too bothered by anyone's absence, but Dean sort of was. It wasn't his call to make, but he felt bad because there were certain people who would never miss any milestone big or small in Michael life.
Amy was obviously a little confused and Dean couldn't imagine what she must have thought when she pulled up and saw the big white tent. She was dressed in a simple black dress and she looked really good. She didn't get emotional often, but once she spotted Michael and Alex sitting so close together, she put two and two together and realized what was going on.
"Hey, Michael."
"Yeah, dad?"
"MILF alert, twelve o'clock."
When Michael looked up Amy waved from across the tent and then covered her mouth with her hand. Michael, who tended to be slightly emotional, was up out of his seat in an instant to run over and give her a hug. He looked so happy to see her and she was obviously thrilled to see him and to be able to spend some time with everyone else. When the kids saw her they got as excited as could be expected for a girl, but Sam looked a little disappointed.
"Sammy?"
"Is she alone?"
"Oh, um..."
"He wouldn't have gotten on a plane with the babies."
"No." Dean said. "He wouldn't have."
"I really want to see them."
"We will, Sammy."
Having Amy and Auden so far away was bad enough, but having there be new babies in the family that no one had met yet was worse. Sam had hundreds if not thousands of pictures of Auden's little princesses, but he wanted to see them in person and hold them and make sure they knew how lucky they both were. The big summer vacation was only a few months away and if Sam couldn't wait that long they'd just have to plan a trip down there before then.
"I'm so sorry." Amy said once she had walked over. "There's a big snow storm in Atlanta and my flight got delayed. I missed it."
"It's fine." Michael said. "You're here now."
"Hey guys."
"Hey." Dean said as he stood up to hug her. "You solo?"
"You more than anyone should know that babies die if they get on planes."
"That's true."
"Hey Amy." Sam smiled. "You look great."
"Thanks."
"Everyone shift down some. We need to make room for Amy!"
There wasn't much room left at the table, but Ethan, Evan and Ollie squeezed onto two chairs, leaving a spot open for Amy. She seemed very happy to be sitting so close to the kids and they wasted no time in filling her in on their lives and she didn't waste any time see what those French fries were all about. It would have been really nice to have Auden there too, especially if he was with the babies, but Michael and Amy had always been tight and Dean was glad she had made it, even if she was late.
When Amy took out her phone, Mary pretty much flew across the table to jump into her lap. All the kids were pretty happy about the new babies, but no one was happier than Mary. She wanted to look at pictures all the time and when they called Amy or Auden she had to talk to the babies and ask what they were doing or tell them about her day. She was completely enamored and it made Dean very nervous.
"They take a bath!" Mary said as she looked at Amy's phone. "You make a big deal out of no penis?"
"Nope." Amy said. "No one cares."
"Wow...must be nice!"
"It's pretty nice."
"Two babies! How wonderful! Oh, what nice dresses for them! I can't wait for a sister!"
"Uh..." Dean whispered. "Um..."
"I'm sorry to interrupt." Ethan said dramatically. "But are those two even real?"
"Of course they're real." Amy said. "They better be, I got all tore up in my..."
"Amy!" Sam said quickly. "No."
"Fine, they're real though."
"Whoever heard of girl twins? They probably aren't real. Do they have matching moles?"
"No..."
"So they're not real twins as I suspected all along. Amy, I have to say, as a six year old, I'm surprised you'd try to take this away from me and Evan. Isn't it bad enough you gave Mary that common gutter hair?"
"Hey you! Be nice!"
"Pretty sure that's Jenny's common gutter hair."
"Hey!" Jenny said from across the table. "What's wrong with blonde hair?"
"Nothing!" Mary yelled. "Beautiful princess hair!"
"Ugh." Ethan groaned. "It goes, me and Evan and Buster's beautiful daddy colored hair, Milo and Michael's devil up the butt red hair. Ollie's short daddy colored hair, and then this mess."
When Ethan motioned towards Mikey's general head area, he looked up from his french fries and made the funniest face Dean had ever seen. He honestly looked like he was about to smack the shit out of Ethan, which would have been awesome, but in the end he rolled his eyes and completely ignored him. Mary was understandably outraged that anyone would ever question her gorgeous blonde locks, but she had learned a long time ago to not pay much attention to Ethan.
Speaking of beautiful daddy colored hair, got Dean thinking about his sweet cinnamon roll baby. It was late for Buster so he could out like a light and perfectly content next to one of the heaters. He had a little content smile on his face and he was sort of happily wiggling back and forth in his swaddle. He was the cutest thing in the world. He was such a good baby, and unfortunately for Mary, he was the caboose of the family.
Dean wasn't ruling out adopting a kid sometime in the distant future, but Mary seemed to be under the impression that as soon as Buster could walk and talk on his own, there would be a new baby on the way and that baby was going to be a sister just for her. Dean really did feel for her, but if anyone was to blame it was Buster. He was supposed to be a baby girl for Mary to be best friends with, he just had other plans. Dean really did want a little girl all his own, but he wouldn't have traded Buster for anything in the whole wide world because he was absolutely perfect.
When the soup came Dean was pretty unenthused, it was good, but the kids just had better stuff. He had some of his soup and then happily picked at the platter of food in front of them. They all seemed to be having such a great time and Dean was extra glad he had forced an afternoon nap on them all because otherwise there was no way they'd make it to see the fireworks. The first show started at 10, and then there was another at 11 and midnight. Dean just wanted them to hold out until that first show because they all really enjoyed fireworks.
The steak Dean ordered was one of the best he ever had and while he wasn't a no good filthy hippy, he did have a bit of Sam's fish, which was also excellent. Carol got the damned ravioli and for whatever reason she refused to give Dean a taste even after he lovingly teased her for about ten minutes. He was about to just get up and steal her whole damned plate when he looked over and saw that Amy was staring with her jaw so far on the floor it was practically in the lake.
"Oh, mermaid lady! You looking so nice in a pretty dress!"
"Likewise, Mary." Melody said as she squatted down. "Pucker up, I brought you some lip gloss."
"Oooh!"
"Who the hell do you think you are!"
"Amy!" Dean yelled. "Calm down."
"What the hell!"
Melody looked back at Amy and pretty much completely ignored her so she could dab a little smear of pink gloss on Mary's lips. There's no way it was going to stay on while she was eating, but it was very cute and it made Mary very happy. All the kids seemed thrilled to see Melody, but Dean didn't even know she was at the wedding and Amy was looking mighty territorial.
"Melody, Amy is half a mommy. Is Zora's special friend."
"Oh, God." Amy sighed. "I'm sorry, I assumed you were another baby factory come to take my job. I thought I was going to have to fight you and beat your ass like I did to Jenny."
"Amy." Mikey said as he shook his head. "No. That didn't happen."
"It could have."
"It's so nice to meet you. Dean, can I speak to you?"
"I'm eating food."
"Can I speak to you?" Melody asked again. "For a minute."
"Everything okay?" Sam asked. "What's wrong?"
"Nothing. I just have a special surprise matter to discuss."
Michael was occupied talking to Jason and Angie, but Alex was looking over and seemed a little nervous. For a second Dean thought that maybe Melody really did have a surprise planned, but it seemed very unlikely that her and Zora, who were both relatively new, would have planned something or that it'd be important enough to interrupt Dean's feeding.
After taking an extra large bite of his steak and stealing one some of Carol's ravioli, Dean excused himself from the table and offered Melody his arm. Amy looked incredibly jealous, which Dean was loving, but she got over it quickly enough when she dug in her purse, pulled out a lipstick, and slapped some of it on Mary. The damned makeup was going to be what finally did Dean in and he was not looking forward to when Mary could put it on herself.
"What's going in?"
"We're sitting right here." Melody said as she walked past one of the table. "Not much of a view, but whatever."
When Dean walked past the table he noticed the two empty chairs, that had place cards for Zora and Melody, were facing the woods on the side of the house. That was kind of a shitty view because their back was to everything and they couldn't see anything because it was so dark out. That was when Dean got nervous, because Zora wasn't around and if there wasn't anything to see it probably meant that she had seen something or someone.
Dean spotted her just a few seconds later standing right in front of the line of trees. She sure as hell cleaned up nicely, and Dean was thinking about maybe making a formal dress code in the workplace a mandatory thing. Her dark hair was in long braids that went all the way to her butt, she had on a full face of really gorgeously applied makeup, and her dress was kind of sexy. Between her and Melody, Dean was feeling very 2005, but he couldn't focus on that too much because when he approached, Zora looked annoyed and very cautious.
"What's going on?"
"There's someone out there."
"Excuse me?"
"I saw someone." Zora said as she turned around. "There's someone in the woods."
"Are you sure?"
"This is my job."
"What about you?"
"I didn't..." Melody said before she paused. "I didn't see anyone, but I wasn't looking."
"There's someone out there. Does Bobby have a gun on him or in his car?"
"Dude...you can't just go charging into the woods with a gun. What if it's a neighbor?"
"It's someone trespassing on private property, granted, probably just a photographer, but if Michael wanted pictures of his wedding on the newsstand next week, he would have invited People magazine."
Zora had a point, but there was no way in hell Dean was going to go casually ask Bobby for a gun, even though he was sure he had one in his car. Justin had fifteen of them in his car and Dean wasn't too sure, but he thought maybe James might at least have a big hunting knife or something. Involving any of them was a bad idea, but Dean didn't really know what else to do.
"Fuck this." Zora said before slipping off her shoes. "Hold these for me."
"No!" Melody said as she grabbed her arm. "You're not going out there."
"I agree. Use your devil powers and flush them out."
"Why do you always think I have devil powers? That's not a real thing."
"Pft." Dean scoffed. "Okay."
"Let me just go do a sweep."
"Fuck." Dean groaned. "I'll go with you. You coming?"
"No!" Melody yelled. "I'm not going to wander around in the woods so some psycho can kill me. They always kill the pretty one first!"
"So, while they're killing me you run away."
"They kill the black one first." Zora said. "Looks like I have to take one for the team since there are no black people here."
"We're super white." Dean told Melody. "I could get Porter I guess?"
Zora rolled her eyes, handed off her shoes and then tugged Dean behind her. Going off into the woods alone was a pretty stupid idea, but not as dumb as leaving someone else to fend for themselves. Melody stayed where she was for about five seconds before she realized she was alone and started to truck it back to the tent. Dean prayed she kept her cool because he didn't want anyone else involved and he sure as hell didn't want Sam to come out and yell at them.
Aided only by the light of their cell phones, Dean searched with Zora for about ten minutes, which was about eight minutes longer than it would take for everyone to wonder what the hell he was up to. If anyone was hiding out in the woods taking pictures they had managed to get the hell out of there awfully quickly. Dean didn't doubt that Zora saw something, but it was just so unlikely that anyone could have snuck onto the property without anyone else noticing. He certainly appreciated Zora's thoroughness, but he was pretty sure they were safe.
"Let's get back to the tent. It was probably a deer."
"I know the difference between a person and a deer."
"Okay...well...they're gone now. I'm sure it was nothing."
"Really?"
"Yes, really. I'm an expert at these things. I don't see anything that would suggest someone was out here."
"Really?"
"Why do you keep saying that?" Dean asked. "What are you looking at me like that for? You don't even like the D."
"Really?"
"What!"
In response, Zora kicked over the rather large cup of coffee that was sitting in snow behind one of the trees. When it fell over the top popped off and a lot of steam rose up from the snow. It was still plenty hot and the last time Dean checked, deer rarely went to Starbucks. He couldn't believe he had walked past something so incredibly obvious and he knew he'd never hear the end of it either. Zora had clearly seen someone and Dean was praying they had hit the road, because if he saw them, then he was calling in Bobby, Justin, and James with whatever ass beating weapons they had stashed in their cars.
When the fireworks started, Sam decided that the new family tradition would be to spend New Year's Eve at the house on Lake George. Not only was the show truly something to behold, but for the first time Evan was really able to enjoy it. There was a big boat in the middle of the lake where a whole team of people were shooting off the fireworks and they were far enough away that Evan didn't have to watch with his hands over his ears. He was so happy and Sam knew that no matter how tired he got he was going to stay up until Midnight.
Buster was also enjoying his first fireworks show, or maybe he was just experiencing it and not so much enjoying it, Sam couldn't tell. He had woken up a little before ten and because it was his first New Year's Eve, Sam took him out of the tent so he could watch the fireworks with the rest of the family. Watching his reaction to all the noise and the bright colors was one of the funniest things Sam had ever seen. Whenever something went off his eye would become even wider and glossier than usual and he'd sort of lean back in Sam's arms very tentatively. He really did look like he was about to start sobbing, but he was way too interested in the fireworks to get anything started.
Mary and Milo, for some reason, were both still awake and pretty alert. As Sam expected they were both interested in the fireworks, but only when they weren't going off. As soon as there was a lull Milo would grab Mary's hand and they'd sneak close to the lake so see just what the hell was going on, but as soon as someone lit another firework they'd haul ass back to whoever was closest and could protect them. It was so cute to see them together and Sam hoped that in the coming year they'd spend a lot more time holding hands.
Mikey and Ollie were just fine with the fireworks and seemed to be very impressed with the display. It really was beautiful, and Sam was thrilled he got to enjoy it while standing right next to Dean without worrying about getting blown up. Everyone seemed to be having a great time, except for Ethan, who was going out of his way to sigh, moan, and groan about how unfair his life was. It was still his birthday month and he had no idea why anyone would deny him his God given right to blow someone up.
"Ethan, stop being grumpy." Sam said. "You had three pieces of cake. I think your life is pretty awesome."
"I guess."
"Come on." Dean said as he offered his hand. "Come with me."
"Are you punishing me!"
"No, fool, come on."
"Dean..."
"Sammy." Dean said seriously. "You protect the baby."
Sam sighed as loudly as he could managed and then turned away from the fireworks to watch Dean. He was being awfully sneaky and Ethan was keeping extra close to him. Sam had no idea what was going on, just that it was probably going to set a terrible example for Ethan and that Dean would inevitably have to be punished three maybe four times.
As usual, Sam was completely right. Dean had snuck up on Anthony who was holding hands and smooching on Bruce, withdrew a firecracker from his pocket, lit it, and let Ethan toss it. The firecracker landed right between Anthony's feet and when it went off his screamed like a six year old girl with a spider in his hair and jumped about three feet into the air. Ethan fucking loved it, but Dean immediately regretted it since Bruce scolded him and then wouldn't give him any kisses. To make matters worse Carol had seen the whole thing happen and rather firmly slapped Dean on his hand and then sent him back to Sam. He was dragging his feet and moping, but at least Ethan was happy.
"Bruce wouldn't kiss me." Dean frowned. "He's my favorite brother too."
"Looks like he's in charge of cutting your sharp ass raptor toenails from now on."
"Sammy! You gotta do it!"
"Well, I'm probably going to be busy with other things."
"Like what?"
"This cinnamon bun."
"He don't know what's going on or whether he likes it or not."
Regardless of his complex relationship with the fireworks, Buster was getting awfully cozy in Sam's arms. He had been particularly happy right by the heater all night and Sam was sure he appreciated that he was still being kept warm. He was well on his way to falling back asleep, but he did perk up and little when Dean gave him a couple of quick kisses all over his cheeks. He sure did love his dashing daddy and Sam felt the exact same way, even if Dean was a bad influence.
"Daddy!" Milo yelled as he ran over. "Quackahs!"
"You better watch out. They'll fly right up your butt."
"No! You joking!"
"Yep." Dean said as he squatted down. "And if...
"Murray! Daddy said it go up your butt!"
"Oh, no!" Mary said as she shook her head. "I don't like that."
When Dean opened up his arms Mary and Milo both ran over so he could protect their butts. Sam was pretty sure Mary was safe, but Milo's butt was so round and bubbly that a firework was most likely going to fly up there or at least explode right next to it. He was very concerned and didn't stop looking worried until Dean placed his hand right up against his butt so nothing would get him.
"Hey, jerks."
"What the hell?" Sam said as he turned around. "What's your problem, sexy old man?"
"I was just talking to my dad." John said. "You know I have a dad, right?"
"I got a bunch of 'em, Boppa."
"Why isn't Jeremy back from the hospital yet? I texted him and called and he's not answering."
"We told you..."
"I know what you told me. Stop being jerks and tell me the truth."
"Daddy, you lie?" Mary asked. "I won't believe that!"
"Of course I didn't lie." Dean lied. "I wouldn't even know how to do something like that."
"Dad, his phone's probably off. Why don't you have a drink and enjoy the fireworks and relax, huh?"
"Aaron's acting weird...weirder than usual."
"What does that mean?"
"He's avoiding me. I was talking to my dad and he agreed with me and he's a cowboy."
"What..." Dean said before he paused. "What does that have to do with anything?"
"Cowboys are the smartest and strongest, and most handsome superheroes in the world. He's the best ever."
"I was literally Jesus like two months ago." Sam said. "Seriously, I was Jesus."
"And now you're a liar."
Even when he was lying, Sam didn't appreciate being called one, especially around Mary and Milo. They were both leaning out of Dean's arms and following the conversation very closely. Sam didn't really know what to do and for a second he considered the truth, but everyone was having such a good time. He didn't want to ruin that for anyone, but he also couldn't have Mary and Milo thinking he was a liar because they were very impressionable and one of them already lied pretty much constantly.
"Aaron and Jeremy got in an argument, okay?" Sam said quietly. "I think Jeremy was just going to head home after the hospital."
"About what?"
"I'm not sure. I was mostly focused on my son getting married. Your grandson, who deserves a night where he only worries about himself?"
"I'm going to talk to Aaron and..."
"No, you're not. Leave it alone, dad."
"Yeah, dad." Dean said. "Not tonight. If there's a problem let them work it out on their own."
John threw his hands up in the air and walked away without saying a word. Sam almost took that as a good sign, because maybe John understood that they kind of knew what they were talking about. He was a little proud until John walked directly to Aaron and started to say something while counting off things on his fingers. Sam had never wanted to blow someone up with his brain as much as he did at that moment, but he was glad he didn't because it didn't seem like John was talking about Jeremy.
He was listing a lot of things on his fingers and when he was done he attempted to take Max away from Aaron. Aaron of course backed away and then got rather firmly poked in the chest. Dean was just about to go over there before a full scale fight broke out when John finally managed to get Max away from Aaron, which was some kind of miracle. He gave him a few kisses and then walked off with him leaving Aaron alone and just kind of staring at nothing. He didn't stay alone for long though because someone wandered over to talk to him and hopefully keep his mind off of Max for a few minutes.
"Jesus." Dean sighed. "Okay, I can't believe I'm the one saying this but...he spends too much time with that kid."
"Dean..."
"I get it." Dean said as he put Mary and Milo down. "Max's mom trusted Aaron with him, after what happened it's completely natural for him to be protective, but he doesn't even trust us."
"He trusts us."
"Really?"
Sam handed Buster off to Dean and then sent Mary and Milo over to play with Aaron for a little bit. Dean was probably right, but saying didn't trust anyone else with Max was sort of oversimplifying it. Aaron had promised Max's dying mother that he'd take care of him. That didn't include uncles and cousins and grandparents. He was the only one there and he was going to be the only one to take care of Max. The problem with that was that even with all the power he had, he couldn't do it alone at least not without paying the price, which he already had.
"Sammy?"
"You're right. He doesn't trust us. I mean if there was an emergency then..."
"You know how many people I'd trust in an emergency? Didn't Justin at one point watch our kids during an emergency? He's the worst. Being trusted in an emergency doesn't make me feel great."
"Shhh!"
"What..."
Mary and Milo hadn't done a great job distracting Aaron since they pretty much went over there, got picked up and were currently being carried back towards Sam and Dean. Sam tried to give Milo the eyes, but it didn't do much good. It was way past their bedtime and even though they were excited Sam knew they weren't going to last much longer. Buster should have been sleeping hours ago and though he was toasty warm, he probably was going to be more comfortable in his nice warm bed.
"Dad took Max."
"Oh?" Sam said. "Why?"
"To show him the boats by the lake." Aaron said before he paused. "He seems to be under the impression that Max's parents came to the country on a boat."
"How did they get here if they didn't take a boat? I mean..."
"Mexico is connected to America, Dean."
"Still?"
"Anyway." Sam sighed. "I'm sure he'll be right back."
"I'm getting a little tired myself. I thought I'd take a couple of the kids inside. I told Jared and Jensen I'd keep an eye on the babies and Porter says Matthew is getting pretty tired."
"Good idea." Dean nodded. "You just going to hang out in the kid's room?"
"Yeah. Dad's going to bring Max up in a few minutes."
"Can you take this one too?"
Buster was completely over the party and the fireworks and the cold. Dean gave him fifteen kisses and Sam gave him and couple before handing him off to Aaron. He went around like the damned pied piper and gathered up a bunch of kids who were ready for bedtime and he had a whole parade walking behind him. Ollie even decided to join in and made sure to stop and give Sam and Dean both kisses before he trudged his way back up to the house.
With all of the littlest little kids in very capable hands and the bigger little kids still enjoying the fun and festivities, Sam thought it was time to check in with their big boy. Alex and Michael had been inseparable all evening and they sure did look good together. Alex had this insane smile plastered on his face and every time it looked like it might fade a little he managed to smile even bigger. Michael hadn't stopped laughing for about four hours. Sam had no idea what anyone had been saying to him, but it clearly the funniest shit he had ever heard.
"Hey, daddies!"
"Someone's been enjoying the expensive champagne he insisted we have."
"It's so bubbly!" Michael whispered. "Like your ass!"
"That's so sweet of you." Sam smiled. "Guys, it's really beautiful. I'm so proud and happy for you both."
"But you think more orchids, huh?"
"Well...honestly, if it was up to be I'd have orchids everywhere, but you did a fantastic job. Second best wedding I've ever been too."
"Me too." Michael smiled. "I love you dad."
"I love you too, baby."
"Me too." Dean said. "You got your black card for your honeymoon? It's on us?"
"Got it ready to go."
"And you'll talk care of our baby?"
"I will." Alex said. "He's my baby now too, officially. I was just telling Michael that I think a little more food and maybe some coffee would be nice."
"Not a bad idea."
"Okay." Michael groaned. "But then we get to watch more fireworks."
"Dean." Alex whispered. "Can you uh...return the favor I'm doing you?"
"Consider it done."
Sam wasn't sure what was going on, but Michael was wasted and needed a little coffee to compose himself. Before he left Alex motioned with his head towards the lake where two figures were standing very close to each other and talking quietly. Sam thought about busying himself with something else, but Dean grabbed his hand and together they walked over to the shore of the lake. There weren't any heaters out there and it was positively frigid, but Justin didn't seem to mind. Craig on the other hand looked like he was about to die.
"Go warm up." Sam said as he pecked his cheek. "You're so sweet and skinny."
"Justin."
"Go on. Can't do stuff to you if you're frozen."
Craig smiled, gave Justin's hand a squeeze and then ran as fast as he could to the closest heater. Sam thought that out of everyone he knew Justin and Craig had the most unique relationship and it had nothing to do with what went on between the sheets. They were just kind of odd, but not in a bad way, just different. Justin was so incredibly rough around the edges and Craig was like a perfect little pearl. It was obviously true that opposites were attracted to each other, but the reason they worked wasn't just because they were so different. It was because Craig was one of the best men Sam had ever met and considering the company he kept that was a great compliment.
"You okay?" Dean asked. "What's going on?"
"I didn't have a good day."
"Why?"
"It was supposed to be me. I know I screwed up, but that was supposed to be me up there. I'm glad it was Michael, he deserves Alex more than I ever did, he appreciates him more, and he needs him more, but it was supposed to be me, and I would have liked a little warning before I showed up her and they threw a penguin suit at me."
"Did you talk to Alex?" Sam asked. "I sure he'd understand how you feel."
"What kind of a raging dick would I be to make their wedding about me?"
"I won't have you talk bad about my least favorite brother!"
"I'm fine, it's just...you know it's hard. I'm going to marry Craig though and he's pretty awesome. I love Michael and I would never do anything to stand in the way of his happiness."
"Craig is very lucky to have you." Sam said. "You're a good man."
"And I'm the only one of us who can pass for straight."
"Okay." Dean laughed. "I don't know about all of that."
"I can see the concealer on your chin, you homo."
Justin was doing what he did best. He was changing the subject to avoid talking about his feeling any further. That wasn't Sam's style, but he wasn't one to judge how people dealt with things. It would have been nice to have Justin really open up, but maybe he didn't have to. He loved Alex, he was always going to love Alex, but their time had passed. Craig wasn't a substitute or a consolation prize, he was just someone else that Justin loved. It didn't matter who he loved more or who he'd ideally like to fall asleep next to. All that matter was that he was happy and Sam thought he was. He thought everyone involved in their little love square was very happy.
"It's my time of the mouth." Dean said. "I had a spot."
"Mmhmm."
"You sure you're okay?"
"Sam, I'm fine, I just wanted a heads up, but it's fine. I know how lucky I am. I've been loved by two incredible men some people don't get that."
"Sometimes they say they love you and then they jerk off on your face."
"Dean!"
"What? I was talking about me and Jensen."
"When did that happen?"
"Like twenty minutes ago. I was like "No, baby, I love you, lemme just splatter paint that Oscar winning mug." What a filthy little slut."
"Now I have a boner." Justin sighed. "Look at my future husband over there. He weighs ninety-five pounds, and ten of it is dick."
"Seriously?"
"Mmhmm."
Sam turned his head to the side, like Spotty often did to consider Craig. He was right next to one of the heaters with his ass pressed dangerously closed to it. When he noticed everyone staring at him he stood up straight and rather spastically waved. Ten pound dick or not he was adorable and Sam had a feeling him and Justin were going to be very happy together for the rest of their lives. Justin even ran over and scooped Craig up in his strong arms and held him extra close to the heater so they could both get toasty and warm in anticipation of doing stuff to each other.
"You ever jealous?"
"Of tall people?" Dean asked. "All the time."
"No, like Justin said he's had two men love him. We just have each other."
"First of all." Dean said before offering his hand. "Before his kids were born Auden would have left his wife for you."
"Okay. Maybe."
"Secondly, how quickly you forgot that someone killed God for you."
"That was a nice gesture...So, then are you jealous that I'm the only person who loves you."
"Ha!" Dean scoffed. "Brofo, please. I have Bruce and Jensen, and my fat boy, and my cinnamon bun, and Jenny."
"She's in love with you?"
"Baby, she got the D. There's no coming back from that."
"Fuck, I hate it when you're right."
"I usually am though."
"Does that mean Jess is in love with me?"
"Only if she misses being dead."
"Dean! Too soon."
"Whatever." Dean sighed. "Mr. Winchester, you owe me a dance."
"That could be arranged."
"Shall we?"
Sam nodded and took Dean's arm so they could return to the warm safety of the tent and dance next to all the other happy couples. Sam did have Auden, regardless of the number of kids involved, and Gabe did think he was a cute pie. He always had legions of adoring fans who would set the world on fire if he asked nicely, but all he cared about, all that mattered was that he had the very best, most handsome, sweetest man in the world, Milo. And while he was sleeping Dean was a semi adequate substitute.
Author: bitchandjerk
Characters: Sam/Dean,John/Mary/OFC OMCs OFCs Jared/Jensen
Rating :R
Words10,000/3,698,900
Warnings: Wincest
Summary: Sam and Dean ring in the new year.
Notes:: AU, rest are here.
Disclaimer: I don't own any of these characters.
Feedback: Makes me hard
It took Michael an entire seven minutes to realize that Jeremy wasn't around. He might have even noticed sooner, but he was busy getting congratulations and hugs and chatting with friends from school he hadn't seen since break started. Sam was watching closely and after seven minutes Michael whispered something to Alex who immediately began to scan the crowd. He looked for Aaron first and found him chatting with a few people, then he looked for John who was with the kids and finally, he looked over at Sam and mouthed Jeremy's name while sort of shrugging.
Sam wasn't entirely sure how to handle the situation so he shrugged back and then smiled at Alex, who smiled back bigger than he ever had in his entire life. Michael hadn't had an easy life, no one was going to argue with that, but Alex's life wasn't all sunshine and rainbows either. He grew up with completely disinterested parents and a father who threw him out the second he realized who he was. He was so in love with Justin and they had their whole future planned out. After he died Alex fell into what certainly seemed like it would have been a never ending depression and an early self inflicted death, but lucky for him some years earlier Dean had knocked Jenny up and someone had to teach Mikey.
Alex deserved the beautiful wedding just as much as Michael did and while Sam would have done things differently and made things a bit more lavish, he certainly wasn't disappointed with that he saw in the reception tent. Sam personally didn't care for big round tables, but they worked best to properly utilize and maximize the space. The tables were dressed in white cloths with an embroidered and beaded cream colored overlay. It really was gorgeous and Michael had chosen simple white plates rimmed in silver, pretty standard flatware, and an assortment of sparkling wine and water glasses. The napkins were the same white as the tablecloths, but they were cuffed with a wide border of sparking silver beads, which was beautiful and completely impractical, Sam's favorite combination.
The centerpieces were low, round, and wide, taking up most of the center of the table and really only leaving a big enough perimeter for the plates. Michael had chosen roses in white and cream because that was a given, he had beautiful antique colored hydrangeas, frilly tulips and massive peonies. The base of the arrangements were covered in bright green moss and there were dozens of candles all in mismatched containers. It really was beautiful and nice compromise between the lavishness of Sam's own wedding and the simplicity of Jared and Jensen's.
The most impressive part of the entire setup was that the entire back wall of the tent was one huge wall of flowers and moss. It was truly phenomenal, one of the most amazing things Sam had ever seen. The entire wall was moss and there were thousands of roses tucked into it. It was going to make an amazing backdrop for photos and it really set the tone for the wedding as soon as anyone stepped into the tent.
There was a small booth for the DJ, three separate bars, a photo booth that was cleverly disguised, some ridiculous chocolate foundation and a table with an outrageous looking cake. Sam had three hundred people at his wedding and he had order the cake accordingly. Alex and Michael maybe had a hundred, and that cake was enough for at least four times as many. It was so beautiful with lots of hand piped details that was all painted silver. It was almost too pretty too cut, but Sam knew Ethan and Evan weren't going to let that happen whether Michael liked it or not.
"Rawr! Rawrrrrrr!"
Sam chuckled to himself and then glanced down and prepared to fight off what was no doubt an absolutely ferocious red bear that had come down out of the mountains looking for cake and maybe chicken fingers. He found an absolutely terrifying and formidable foe, who still had his arms up in the air and his fingers curled like claws. Sam attempted to knock him over with his foot, but Milo latched on and tried his very best to bite him.
"Get up here you crazy ring bear!"
"Growl!" Milo said as Sam picked him up. "Daddy, a bear."
"I saw, I was terrified."
"I teach you. Rawr! Say like rawr!"
"Rawr!" Sam growled. "You know uncle Bobby's a bear, right?"
"Mmhmm." Milo nodded. "Moo! Rawr!"
"A bear doesn't moo!"
"Rawra-doodle-doo!"
"That's short daddy's absolute favorite animal."
"A woostah?"
"Sort of." Sam smiled. "You kiss me right now, mister! Right on the lips!"
When Sam puckered up Milo rewarded him with three quick kisses, which were absolutely sensational. Him and Mary had done a really excellent job with the wedding and he was very proud of them. In fact there probably wasn't a better ring bear in the entire world. Milo probably could have taught classes on how to do it right, so other little boys could learn a thing or two.
"Ow! Daddy!"
"I got you!" Jensen said as he bit Milo's butt again. "Twice!"
"Daddy! He eat me! Make me so mad!"
"You bit me first!"
"Say who?"
"Literally everyone here!"
"Daddy, did you see it?"
"Nope." Sam shrugged. "Didn't see a thing."
"Well, not the first time I've been called a liar."
"Jensen..."
"It's a joke Sam. And to be honest...this could have waited until after the movie."
Sam really did feel bad and knowing that it could have waited didn't make him feel any better. He had kind of overreacted to the whole thing when in the grand scheme of things it didn't really matter all that much. The movie was going to be done on time regardless of whether or not they pushed it back a couple of week. It was only going to take a couple of weeks to film and the rest was all post production and with such a huge budget, Sam was sure they could do that in record time.
"I am sorry though."
"Forget about it."
"I need you to do me a huge favor."
"Anything."
"Michael's making his way over here. I need you to turn on the charm and keep him away from me."
"What...why would...?"
"Can you trust me?" Sam asked. "Please. Do whatever it is you have to do."
Michael was moving in pretty fast and Sam had just enough time to pretend like he didn't see him before he darted through the crowd with Milo. When he got some distance between them he looked back and saw Jensen giving Michael a hug before he proceeded to let his left crutch slip out from under him. He fell into Michael who fell into someone else and they both ended up on the floor. Sam really didn't need Jensen to literally lay his life down as a distraction, but he had and it worked like a charm because Michael was very concerned with making sure he was okay.
Sam very quickly made it to the house with Milo and ducked in the back door so he could try and find Dean and figure out what the hell was going on and more importantly what the hell they were going to say when asked questions they couldn't possibly answer. Sam knew he was somewhere in the house and he was very easy to find since he was arguing quite passionately, with the last person he ever seemed to argue with.
"You're not helping!"
"You're not telling me what to do!"
"Jesus, mom!" Dean yelled. "Do I look like I know what to fucking do!"
"Don't you use that kind of language in front of us!"
"Hey." Sam said as he stepped into the kitchen. "Really?"
Dean had Buster and Carol had Mary and all of them looked like they had been caught in the middle of an all out war. Milo seemed to sense something was up so he shimmied down Sam and went over to tug on Mary's foot until Carol put her down. They both wandered off to the other side of the kitchen where they had a little play area set up and began to busy themselves with coloring. Seeing them get along was pretty much the final straw for Sam because he couldn't handle any other totally weird shit.
"You go upstarts and...take Buster with you and we'll tell dad that you have...a yeast infection."
"Excuse me?"
"You take Buster and if dad asks where you are we'll tell him your vagina is like...sick."
"First of all, that's gross, secondly, my grandson just got married. I'm not going to hide upstairs."
"Then you lie to dad when he asks where Jeremy is. Like we practiced, you tell him Jeremy had to leave because one of the meth heads he counsels was threatening to blow her brains out."
"Jesus, Dean." Sam whispered. "That's the best you could come up with?"
"I guess you can do better?"
"The truth?"
"Don't be stupid." Carol said as she shook her head. "Seriously, Sam?"
"Okay, that was uncalled for."
"I'm sorry, Sam, I don't know what to do. I can't ruin tonight for your father or Michael."
"Fine." Sam sighed. "Who didn't show up? It has to be one of our friends."
"Ethan's not here." Dean said. "They go to his dad's house every year."
"Okay. He...slipped? He slipped outside and Jeremy took him to the ER. Can't have a phone on in the hospital so no one will call and no one will call to check up on Ethan."
"Fine." Dean said. "I'm still telling everyone she has a yeast infection."
"No, you won't daddy." Mary yelled from across the room. "Don't even!"
"Fine...whatever."
"You right, whatever!"
"We good?" Sam asked. "Let's just...keep our shit together and deal with this tomorrow."
"Fine with me." Carol said. "Good plan, Sam."
"Yeah, thanks."
After quickly changing Buster's diaper, Sam left with Dean and the babies to get back to the party. They made it about fifteen feet before Michael pretty much popped out of thin air and demanded to know just what the hell was going on. Sam started to say something and stopped, and Dean just completely ignored him because they could lie, no problem, but neither of them could lie to Michael on such an important day. Carol, as always was more than willing to take one for the team and she explained how Ethan had slipped, possibly aggravating an old football injury and Jeremy's car was the closest so he volunteered to drive him to the ER.
It wasn't a great story, but given that Sam had less then fifteen seconds to come up with it, he thought it was pretty good, plausible at least. Michael seemed very suspicious, but instead of asking a lot of questions he just nodded and shrugged before taking Milo so they could go get into some stuff. Carol followed closely behind him with Mary and made sure to shoot Sam and Dean her stank eye to let them know she was none too happy.
"Mother fucker." Dean sighed. "How did we not see this coming?"
"We didn't want to?" Sam said cautiously. "Dean, they haven't been the same since Jeremy came back and Max just further complicated things."
"How long has this been going on?"
"Long enough for Jeremy to get a place of his own. Can we just...not tonight. For Michael and Alex let's just not..."
"So I just ignore you think that trying to kill yourself makes you some macho man?"
"You know that's not what I meant."
Having Dean be so upset around so many people was a disaster waiting to happen. When he got upset and didn't know how to process it, he always ended up lashing out repeatedly at any little thing anyone said. Sam of course hadn't meant to imply that he went to the bridge because he was strong, but he sure as hell wasn't going to be called weak. Out of everything he had done deciding to give up required tremendous strength. It was wrong and selfish, and stupid, but it sure as hell wasn't weak. Dean hadn't been weak either, he was just tired, they both were, but it was in the past.
"I'm sorry."
"We just need a plan because Michael's too smart to not put things together."
"I got a plan." Dean sighed. "You got money?"
"On me?"
"No, just in general."
For Dean's plan to work they had to get Alex alone, which was a lot harder than either of them thought it would be. Not only was he sticking very close to Michael, but he wanted to see and talk to everyone before they started dinner. He was laughing and smiling and hugging everyone he could get close enough to, so Dean waited in line, got a hug and a kiss and then hooked his arm through Alex's to pull him away from the crowd. Michael looked suspicious all over again, but then Dean winked at him and got a little knowing smirk in return. He thought daddy was going to lay down the law, which could have been what was going on, since Sam was completely in the dark.
"It was perfect, right?"
"Absolutely." Dean smiled. "You're my best friend."
"I know!" Alex blushed. "Dad!"
"Oh, Jesus, don't call me that. Are you guys going anywhere for a little honeymoon?"
"Nah, we went on our big trip last summer and we've been in Vermont for so long, we just thought we'd hang out here for a while and then head home."
"That's ridiculous. Sam's going to call and have the jet ready to take you to..."
"Anywhere you want to go." Sam said. "Our treat."
"Really?"
"Anywhere. Why don't you take Michael to...uh, London."
"London?"
"Well, yeah." Sam shrugged. "You know the language, you love Ab Fab."
"Huh...Not a bad idea."
"Excellent. You'll leave tonight and don't worry about any of us back here. Just have fun."
"Okay, cut the bullshit, what the hell is going on?"
"I don't know what you mean." Dean laughed awkwardly. "I'm just trying to be nice."
"By making me abscond with your precious baby boy to another country? I'm not dumb, Dean."
"Aaron and Jeremy broke up. We don't want Michael to find out because it's going to upset him. If you keep him busy he won't have to find out until later."
"Just put it all out there, Sammy." Dean sighed. "Just be cool and do this."
"I've been married for less than a half hour and you want me to lie to..."
"No one said anything about lying."
Alex wasn't much of a liar to begin with, he was barely a fibber and as far as Sam knew he had been nothing but completely honest and transparent with Michael. The whole honeymoon thing was schemey, without a doubt, but no one had to lie to Michael, he just had to be occupied so he could have a good time and not worry about anything besides himself and Alex and all the great honeymoon sexing they could do over in the motherland.
"I don't like this." Alex said as he shook his head. "But he deserves a nice vacation away from..."
"From what exactly?"
Alex shrugged and then went back to join Michael who immediately took his hand and gave him a kiss on the cheek. Sam was awfully glad Alex didn't finish his thought because Dean would have gone off. He didn't have to say anything because they both knew exactly what was about to come out of his mouth. He thought Michael deserved some time away from what certainly seemed like an endless supply of bullshit. He made a friend who turned out to be a demon, he got Jason back, who was then promptly kidnapped by God, it was just a fucking mess and he deserved his perfect wedding and time away from everyone except for Alex. Sam completely agreed with that, but Dean was looking like he just got punched in the nuts three or four times.
"I am so pissed off."
"Dean, he's kinda right..."
"Not that. Jeremy couldn't have held it together for a couple more days? I mean they've both been lying to us for God only knows how long."
"Don't you think it was probably a little hard on him to see Michael getting married when him and Aaron weren't together anymore?"
"I'm done."
"What does that mean?"
"Done." Dean said again. "I'm going to go talk to our friends and have dinner and dance with you and the kids. Can you do whatever it is you do to make shit happen so that plane is waiting for them?"
"Consider it done."
"Thanks, Sammy. I want to get Buster in the tent. It's cold out here."
Getting a plane ready and waiting on New Year's Eve wasn't exactly easy, but Sam had it done in under fifteen minutes. He could probably rule the damned world with his cell phone. He could make pretty much anything happen, unfortunately, when it came to Jeremy and Aaron, Sam was well aware that there wasn't shit he could do.
Even though no one had asked for his help with choosing food for the wedding, which was his specialty, Dean was still pretty impressed. As soon as everyone had had a cocktail and was seated for dinner a whole fleet of waiters came out let everyone know what the specials were. Because they hadn't sent out invites beforehand the caterers had no idea what anyone would want. Luckily, Alex had a shit ton of money and he pretty much told them to prepare enough food to cover any combination of entrees.
The first course was an asparagus and truffle brulee, which sounded just fine to Dean. For the second course he got to choose between a smoked fennel and cucumber salad, butternut and coconut soup, or a prosciutto artichoke and endive salad. The entrees were pretty standard and included something for everyone. For real people there was a filet mignon on a potato leek galette with roasted vegetables. For the lesbians and hippies there was almond crusted salmon, and the people who had no right being on his property got a nice vegan pumpkin ravioli. Dean went with the steak obviously, while Sam got the fish and they both went with the soup because it sounded pretty good.
When the kids heard the menu the seemed less than impressed with all the fancy locally sourced organic ingredients. Dean was a little worried because besides the prosciutto and maybe the steak he didn't see much the kids would like. Big brother had them covered though because the waiter had a second menu of personalized pizzas, chicken fingers, hamburgers, hot dogs, french fries and mac and cheese. That made the kids very happy, but Ollie made sure that someone was going to bring him whatever the hell that prosciutto salad was all about.
While Dean waited for his fancy brulee, he looked over at Michael and Alex who looked like the last two people left in the whole world. They were sitting so close to each other sharing quite a few whispered secrets. Dean tried to eavesdrop a little, but he couldn't hear anything Alex whispered something into his ear and Michael whole face lit up. He smiled bigger than Dean had ever seen and his face flushed with just a little tinge of pink.
Sam might have thought that Michael deserved everything and Dean did agree, but he also had everything. His life was perfect and it was just going to get better. He had a beautiful home, a smart, caring, and loving husband, and before they knew it, it was going to be October and their little family was going to grow. Dean knew they were going to make amazing parents and while he couldn't wait to be a grandpa he was more excited for Michael and especially for Alex to be a dad.
Casey had the great honor of being one of the few people at the big important table who wasn't an official member of the family. She was sitting next to Ann and talking very enthusiastically about something. Dean had talked to her for a few minutes before the wedding, but he definitely wanted to spend some more time with her. He was really hoping for a little bump or even just a lump, but if she was showing her dress was hiding it well. Even without the bump, she looked beautiful and Dean absolutely could not wait for a little redheaded grandbaby to spoil completely rotten, even if ginger babies were born rotten already.
"Look at me, daddy!"
"What about you?" Dean asked as he looked over. "You're absolutely terrifying!"
"Grr!"
"A bear." Mary said as she shook her head. "I can't with him, daddy."
"You cannot even?"
"Cannot, lillyree cannot."
"You see, me, daddy?" Milo asked. "A big shot, a pretty big deal."
"Baby, you were the star of the show." Sam said as he hugged Milo to his chest. "Everyone is still talking about it. And Mary, your flower tossing was perfection."
"Right?" Mary laughed. "I do it."
"You know, Craig was telling me and daddy that maybe it's time for you to start dancing."
Mary looked at Sam and pretty much scoffed before doing her very best to toss her hair back. Dean loved his kids and he let them do whatever they wanted, but if she thought she was escaping a pink tutu and a bun, she was sorely mistaken. He had waited far too long for his princess, and she was taking ballet. Sam thought it was a great idea and she could go to the little studio in town and maybe make some friends and it would be perfect, but Mary could not have cared less.
"You will either be a ballerina, or leave this house and never come back."
"I got more houses."
"She's got you there." Sam said. "I'm a little suspicious of this menu."
"It sounds amazing, Sammy."
"I know, it's just..." Sam said before raising his voice. "I thought for sure Alex would want to serve young succulent veal and Michael would want hillbilly vittles. It's almost elegant."
"I heard that!" Michael said as he looked over. "Why are you so jealous of my beautiful wedding?"
"My sweet big boy, I don't think you have Yonce waiting in the wings to perform."
"I ain't overcompensatin'. Had damned orchid trees. Husband!"
"Hmm?" Alex asked as he looked over. "What's wrong?"
"That man over there is bothering me and I'm not going to sit here and be disrespected."
"Dad. Stop being a bitch."
"Stop calling us dad!"
Dean was just about to smack the shit out of Alex so he didn't make calling them dad a habit when the first course arrived. For a first course, the brulee was awfully big. Dean was expecting a little ramekin that he could finish off in a couple of bites, but it came in a pretty substantial custard cup. There was a thick layer of caramelized cheese on top and as soon as the waiter put it down, Dean dug his fork into it and had a taste. He burned of mouth of course, but it was delicious and he didn't even care that the asparagus was going to make him have smelly peeps. The kids all got one brulee to share, but they also got big plates of French fries, which Dean stole a few of.
"Oh, my God." Sam whispered. "Dean..."
"It's good, right?" Dean grinned. "Not too shabby."
"No, look."
"Hmm?"
When Dean looked up, he immediately sucked up his breath a little. Because the wedding had been a surprise, some people that absolutely should have been there hadn't come because they were under the impression it was just a party. Michael didn't seem too bothered by anyone's absence, but Dean sort of was. It wasn't his call to make, but he felt bad because there were certain people who would never miss any milestone big or small in Michael life.
Amy was obviously a little confused and Dean couldn't imagine what she must have thought when she pulled up and saw the big white tent. She was dressed in a simple black dress and she looked really good. She didn't get emotional often, but once she spotted Michael and Alex sitting so close together, she put two and two together and realized what was going on.
"Hey, Michael."
"Yeah, dad?"
"MILF alert, twelve o'clock."
When Michael looked up Amy waved from across the tent and then covered her mouth with her hand. Michael, who tended to be slightly emotional, was up out of his seat in an instant to run over and give her a hug. He looked so happy to see her and she was obviously thrilled to see him and to be able to spend some time with everyone else. When the kids saw her they got as excited as could be expected for a girl, but Sam looked a little disappointed.
"Sammy?"
"Is she alone?"
"Oh, um..."
"He wouldn't have gotten on a plane with the babies."
"No." Dean said. "He wouldn't have."
"I really want to see them."
"We will, Sammy."
Having Amy and Auden so far away was bad enough, but having there be new babies in the family that no one had met yet was worse. Sam had hundreds if not thousands of pictures of Auden's little princesses, but he wanted to see them in person and hold them and make sure they knew how lucky they both were. The big summer vacation was only a few months away and if Sam couldn't wait that long they'd just have to plan a trip down there before then.
"I'm so sorry." Amy said once she had walked over. "There's a big snow storm in Atlanta and my flight got delayed. I missed it."
"It's fine." Michael said. "You're here now."
"Hey guys."
"Hey." Dean said as he stood up to hug her. "You solo?"
"You more than anyone should know that babies die if they get on planes."
"That's true."
"Hey Amy." Sam smiled. "You look great."
"Thanks."
"Everyone shift down some. We need to make room for Amy!"
There wasn't much room left at the table, but Ethan, Evan and Ollie squeezed onto two chairs, leaving a spot open for Amy. She seemed very happy to be sitting so close to the kids and they wasted no time in filling her in on their lives and she didn't waste any time see what those French fries were all about. It would have been really nice to have Auden there too, especially if he was with the babies, but Michael and Amy had always been tight and Dean was glad she had made it, even if she was late.
When Amy took out her phone, Mary pretty much flew across the table to jump into her lap. All the kids were pretty happy about the new babies, but no one was happier than Mary. She wanted to look at pictures all the time and when they called Amy or Auden she had to talk to the babies and ask what they were doing or tell them about her day. She was completely enamored and it made Dean very nervous.
"They take a bath!" Mary said as she looked at Amy's phone. "You make a big deal out of no penis?"
"Nope." Amy said. "No one cares."
"Wow...must be nice!"
"It's pretty nice."
"Two babies! How wonderful! Oh, what nice dresses for them! I can't wait for a sister!"
"Uh..." Dean whispered. "Um..."
"I'm sorry to interrupt." Ethan said dramatically. "But are those two even real?"
"Of course they're real." Amy said. "They better be, I got all tore up in my..."
"Amy!" Sam said quickly. "No."
"Fine, they're real though."
"Whoever heard of girl twins? They probably aren't real. Do they have matching moles?"
"No..."
"So they're not real twins as I suspected all along. Amy, I have to say, as a six year old, I'm surprised you'd try to take this away from me and Evan. Isn't it bad enough you gave Mary that common gutter hair?"
"Hey you! Be nice!"
"Pretty sure that's Jenny's common gutter hair."
"Hey!" Jenny said from across the table. "What's wrong with blonde hair?"
"Nothing!" Mary yelled. "Beautiful princess hair!"
"Ugh." Ethan groaned. "It goes, me and Evan and Buster's beautiful daddy colored hair, Milo and Michael's devil up the butt red hair. Ollie's short daddy colored hair, and then this mess."
When Ethan motioned towards Mikey's general head area, he looked up from his french fries and made the funniest face Dean had ever seen. He honestly looked like he was about to smack the shit out of Ethan, which would have been awesome, but in the end he rolled his eyes and completely ignored him. Mary was understandably outraged that anyone would ever question her gorgeous blonde locks, but she had learned a long time ago to not pay much attention to Ethan.
Speaking of beautiful daddy colored hair, got Dean thinking about his sweet cinnamon roll baby. It was late for Buster so he could out like a light and perfectly content next to one of the heaters. He had a little content smile on his face and he was sort of happily wiggling back and forth in his swaddle. He was the cutest thing in the world. He was such a good baby, and unfortunately for Mary, he was the caboose of the family.
Dean wasn't ruling out adopting a kid sometime in the distant future, but Mary seemed to be under the impression that as soon as Buster could walk and talk on his own, there would be a new baby on the way and that baby was going to be a sister just for her. Dean really did feel for her, but if anyone was to blame it was Buster. He was supposed to be a baby girl for Mary to be best friends with, he just had other plans. Dean really did want a little girl all his own, but he wouldn't have traded Buster for anything in the whole wide world because he was absolutely perfect.
When the soup came Dean was pretty unenthused, it was good, but the kids just had better stuff. He had some of his soup and then happily picked at the platter of food in front of them. They all seemed to be having such a great time and Dean was extra glad he had forced an afternoon nap on them all because otherwise there was no way they'd make it to see the fireworks. The first show started at 10, and then there was another at 11 and midnight. Dean just wanted them to hold out until that first show because they all really enjoyed fireworks.
The steak Dean ordered was one of the best he ever had and while he wasn't a no good filthy hippy, he did have a bit of Sam's fish, which was also excellent. Carol got the damned ravioli and for whatever reason she refused to give Dean a taste even after he lovingly teased her for about ten minutes. He was about to just get up and steal her whole damned plate when he looked over and saw that Amy was staring with her jaw so far on the floor it was practically in the lake.
"Oh, mermaid lady! You looking so nice in a pretty dress!"
"Likewise, Mary." Melody said as she squatted down. "Pucker up, I brought you some lip gloss."
"Oooh!"
"Who the hell do you think you are!"
"Amy!" Dean yelled. "Calm down."
"What the hell!"
Melody looked back at Amy and pretty much completely ignored her so she could dab a little smear of pink gloss on Mary's lips. There's no way it was going to stay on while she was eating, but it was very cute and it made Mary very happy. All the kids seemed thrilled to see Melody, but Dean didn't even know she was at the wedding and Amy was looking mighty territorial.
"Melody, Amy is half a mommy. Is Zora's special friend."
"Oh, God." Amy sighed. "I'm sorry, I assumed you were another baby factory come to take my job. I thought I was going to have to fight you and beat your ass like I did to Jenny."
"Amy." Mikey said as he shook his head. "No. That didn't happen."
"It could have."
"It's so nice to meet you. Dean, can I speak to you?"
"I'm eating food."
"Can I speak to you?" Melody asked again. "For a minute."
"Everything okay?" Sam asked. "What's wrong?"
"Nothing. I just have a special surprise matter to discuss."
Michael was occupied talking to Jason and Angie, but Alex was looking over and seemed a little nervous. For a second Dean thought that maybe Melody really did have a surprise planned, but it seemed very unlikely that her and Zora, who were both relatively new, would have planned something or that it'd be important enough to interrupt Dean's feeding.
After taking an extra large bite of his steak and stealing one some of Carol's ravioli, Dean excused himself from the table and offered Melody his arm. Amy looked incredibly jealous, which Dean was loving, but she got over it quickly enough when she dug in her purse, pulled out a lipstick, and slapped some of it on Mary. The damned makeup was going to be what finally did Dean in and he was not looking forward to when Mary could put it on herself.
"What's going in?"
"We're sitting right here." Melody said as she walked past one of the table. "Not much of a view, but whatever."
When Dean walked past the table he noticed the two empty chairs, that had place cards for Zora and Melody, were facing the woods on the side of the house. That was kind of a shitty view because their back was to everything and they couldn't see anything because it was so dark out. That was when Dean got nervous, because Zora wasn't around and if there wasn't anything to see it probably meant that she had seen something or someone.
Dean spotted her just a few seconds later standing right in front of the line of trees. She sure as hell cleaned up nicely, and Dean was thinking about maybe making a formal dress code in the workplace a mandatory thing. Her dark hair was in long braids that went all the way to her butt, she had on a full face of really gorgeously applied makeup, and her dress was kind of sexy. Between her and Melody, Dean was feeling very 2005, but he couldn't focus on that too much because when he approached, Zora looked annoyed and very cautious.
"What's going on?"
"There's someone out there."
"Excuse me?"
"I saw someone." Zora said as she turned around. "There's someone in the woods."
"Are you sure?"
"This is my job."
"What about you?"
"I didn't..." Melody said before she paused. "I didn't see anyone, but I wasn't looking."
"There's someone out there. Does Bobby have a gun on him or in his car?"
"Dude...you can't just go charging into the woods with a gun. What if it's a neighbor?"
"It's someone trespassing on private property, granted, probably just a photographer, but if Michael wanted pictures of his wedding on the newsstand next week, he would have invited People magazine."
Zora had a point, but there was no way in hell Dean was going to go casually ask Bobby for a gun, even though he was sure he had one in his car. Justin had fifteen of them in his car and Dean wasn't too sure, but he thought maybe James might at least have a big hunting knife or something. Involving any of them was a bad idea, but Dean didn't really know what else to do.
"Fuck this." Zora said before slipping off her shoes. "Hold these for me."
"No!" Melody said as she grabbed her arm. "You're not going out there."
"I agree. Use your devil powers and flush them out."
"Why do you always think I have devil powers? That's not a real thing."
"Pft." Dean scoffed. "Okay."
"Let me just go do a sweep."
"Fuck." Dean groaned. "I'll go with you. You coming?"
"No!" Melody yelled. "I'm not going to wander around in the woods so some psycho can kill me. They always kill the pretty one first!"
"So, while they're killing me you run away."
"They kill the black one first." Zora said. "Looks like I have to take one for the team since there are no black people here."
"We're super white." Dean told Melody. "I could get Porter I guess?"
Zora rolled her eyes, handed off her shoes and then tugged Dean behind her. Going off into the woods alone was a pretty stupid idea, but not as dumb as leaving someone else to fend for themselves. Melody stayed where she was for about five seconds before she realized she was alone and started to truck it back to the tent. Dean prayed she kept her cool because he didn't want anyone else involved and he sure as hell didn't want Sam to come out and yell at them.
Aided only by the light of their cell phones, Dean searched with Zora for about ten minutes, which was about eight minutes longer than it would take for everyone to wonder what the hell he was up to. If anyone was hiding out in the woods taking pictures they had managed to get the hell out of there awfully quickly. Dean didn't doubt that Zora saw something, but it was just so unlikely that anyone could have snuck onto the property without anyone else noticing. He certainly appreciated Zora's thoroughness, but he was pretty sure they were safe.
"Let's get back to the tent. It was probably a deer."
"I know the difference between a person and a deer."
"Okay...well...they're gone now. I'm sure it was nothing."
"Really?"
"Yes, really. I'm an expert at these things. I don't see anything that would suggest someone was out here."
"Really?"
"Why do you keep saying that?" Dean asked. "What are you looking at me like that for? You don't even like the D."
"Really?"
"What!"
In response, Zora kicked over the rather large cup of coffee that was sitting in snow behind one of the trees. When it fell over the top popped off and a lot of steam rose up from the snow. It was still plenty hot and the last time Dean checked, deer rarely went to Starbucks. He couldn't believe he had walked past something so incredibly obvious and he knew he'd never hear the end of it either. Zora had clearly seen someone and Dean was praying they had hit the road, because if he saw them, then he was calling in Bobby, Justin, and James with whatever ass beating weapons they had stashed in their cars.
When the fireworks started, Sam decided that the new family tradition would be to spend New Year's Eve at the house on Lake George. Not only was the show truly something to behold, but for the first time Evan was really able to enjoy it. There was a big boat in the middle of the lake where a whole team of people were shooting off the fireworks and they were far enough away that Evan didn't have to watch with his hands over his ears. He was so happy and Sam knew that no matter how tired he got he was going to stay up until Midnight.
Buster was also enjoying his first fireworks show, or maybe he was just experiencing it and not so much enjoying it, Sam couldn't tell. He had woken up a little before ten and because it was his first New Year's Eve, Sam took him out of the tent so he could watch the fireworks with the rest of the family. Watching his reaction to all the noise and the bright colors was one of the funniest things Sam had ever seen. Whenever something went off his eye would become even wider and glossier than usual and he'd sort of lean back in Sam's arms very tentatively. He really did look like he was about to start sobbing, but he was way too interested in the fireworks to get anything started.
Mary and Milo, for some reason, were both still awake and pretty alert. As Sam expected they were both interested in the fireworks, but only when they weren't going off. As soon as there was a lull Milo would grab Mary's hand and they'd sneak close to the lake so see just what the hell was going on, but as soon as someone lit another firework they'd haul ass back to whoever was closest and could protect them. It was so cute to see them together and Sam hoped that in the coming year they'd spend a lot more time holding hands.
Mikey and Ollie were just fine with the fireworks and seemed to be very impressed with the display. It really was beautiful, and Sam was thrilled he got to enjoy it while standing right next to Dean without worrying about getting blown up. Everyone seemed to be having a great time, except for Ethan, who was going out of his way to sigh, moan, and groan about how unfair his life was. It was still his birthday month and he had no idea why anyone would deny him his God given right to blow someone up.
"Ethan, stop being grumpy." Sam said. "You had three pieces of cake. I think your life is pretty awesome."
"I guess."
"Come on." Dean said as he offered his hand. "Come with me."
"Are you punishing me!"
"No, fool, come on."
"Dean..."
"Sammy." Dean said seriously. "You protect the baby."
Sam sighed as loudly as he could managed and then turned away from the fireworks to watch Dean. He was being awfully sneaky and Ethan was keeping extra close to him. Sam had no idea what was going on, just that it was probably going to set a terrible example for Ethan and that Dean would inevitably have to be punished three maybe four times.
As usual, Sam was completely right. Dean had snuck up on Anthony who was holding hands and smooching on Bruce, withdrew a firecracker from his pocket, lit it, and let Ethan toss it. The firecracker landed right between Anthony's feet and when it went off his screamed like a six year old girl with a spider in his hair and jumped about three feet into the air. Ethan fucking loved it, but Dean immediately regretted it since Bruce scolded him and then wouldn't give him any kisses. To make matters worse Carol had seen the whole thing happen and rather firmly slapped Dean on his hand and then sent him back to Sam. He was dragging his feet and moping, but at least Ethan was happy.
"Bruce wouldn't kiss me." Dean frowned. "He's my favorite brother too."
"Looks like he's in charge of cutting your sharp ass raptor toenails from now on."
"Sammy! You gotta do it!"
"Well, I'm probably going to be busy with other things."
"Like what?"
"This cinnamon bun."
"He don't know what's going on or whether he likes it or not."
Regardless of his complex relationship with the fireworks, Buster was getting awfully cozy in Sam's arms. He had been particularly happy right by the heater all night and Sam was sure he appreciated that he was still being kept warm. He was well on his way to falling back asleep, but he did perk up and little when Dean gave him a couple of quick kisses all over his cheeks. He sure did love his dashing daddy and Sam felt the exact same way, even if Dean was a bad influence.
"Daddy!" Milo yelled as he ran over. "Quackahs!"
"You better watch out. They'll fly right up your butt."
"No! You joking!"
"Yep." Dean said as he squatted down. "And if...
"Murray! Daddy said it go up your butt!"
"Oh, no!" Mary said as she shook her head. "I don't like that."
When Dean opened up his arms Mary and Milo both ran over so he could protect their butts. Sam was pretty sure Mary was safe, but Milo's butt was so round and bubbly that a firework was most likely going to fly up there or at least explode right next to it. He was very concerned and didn't stop looking worried until Dean placed his hand right up against his butt so nothing would get him.
"Hey, jerks."
"What the hell?" Sam said as he turned around. "What's your problem, sexy old man?"
"I was just talking to my dad." John said. "You know I have a dad, right?"
"I got a bunch of 'em, Boppa."
"Why isn't Jeremy back from the hospital yet? I texted him and called and he's not answering."
"We told you..."
"I know what you told me. Stop being jerks and tell me the truth."
"Daddy, you lie?" Mary asked. "I won't believe that!"
"Of course I didn't lie." Dean lied. "I wouldn't even know how to do something like that."
"Dad, his phone's probably off. Why don't you have a drink and enjoy the fireworks and relax, huh?"
"Aaron's acting weird...weirder than usual."
"What does that mean?"
"He's avoiding me. I was talking to my dad and he agreed with me and he's a cowboy."
"What..." Dean said before he paused. "What does that have to do with anything?"
"Cowboys are the smartest and strongest, and most handsome superheroes in the world. He's the best ever."
"I was literally Jesus like two months ago." Sam said. "Seriously, I was Jesus."
"And now you're a liar."
Even when he was lying, Sam didn't appreciate being called one, especially around Mary and Milo. They were both leaning out of Dean's arms and following the conversation very closely. Sam didn't really know what to do and for a second he considered the truth, but everyone was having such a good time. He didn't want to ruin that for anyone, but he also couldn't have Mary and Milo thinking he was a liar because they were very impressionable and one of them already lied pretty much constantly.
"Aaron and Jeremy got in an argument, okay?" Sam said quietly. "I think Jeremy was just going to head home after the hospital."
"About what?"
"I'm not sure. I was mostly focused on my son getting married. Your grandson, who deserves a night where he only worries about himself?"
"I'm going to talk to Aaron and..."
"No, you're not. Leave it alone, dad."
"Yeah, dad." Dean said. "Not tonight. If there's a problem let them work it out on their own."
John threw his hands up in the air and walked away without saying a word. Sam almost took that as a good sign, because maybe John understood that they kind of knew what they were talking about. He was a little proud until John walked directly to Aaron and started to say something while counting off things on his fingers. Sam had never wanted to blow someone up with his brain as much as he did at that moment, but he was glad he didn't because it didn't seem like John was talking about Jeremy.
He was listing a lot of things on his fingers and when he was done he attempted to take Max away from Aaron. Aaron of course backed away and then got rather firmly poked in the chest. Dean was just about to go over there before a full scale fight broke out when John finally managed to get Max away from Aaron, which was some kind of miracle. He gave him a few kisses and then walked off with him leaving Aaron alone and just kind of staring at nothing. He didn't stay alone for long though because someone wandered over to talk to him and hopefully keep his mind off of Max for a few minutes.
"Jesus." Dean sighed. "Okay, I can't believe I'm the one saying this but...he spends too much time with that kid."
"Dean..."
"I get it." Dean said as he put Mary and Milo down. "Max's mom trusted Aaron with him, after what happened it's completely natural for him to be protective, but he doesn't even trust us."
"He trusts us."
"Really?"
Sam handed Buster off to Dean and then sent Mary and Milo over to play with Aaron for a little bit. Dean was probably right, but saying didn't trust anyone else with Max was sort of oversimplifying it. Aaron had promised Max's dying mother that he'd take care of him. That didn't include uncles and cousins and grandparents. He was the only one there and he was going to be the only one to take care of Max. The problem with that was that even with all the power he had, he couldn't do it alone at least not without paying the price, which he already had.
"Sammy?"
"You're right. He doesn't trust us. I mean if there was an emergency then..."
"You know how many people I'd trust in an emergency? Didn't Justin at one point watch our kids during an emergency? He's the worst. Being trusted in an emergency doesn't make me feel great."
"Shhh!"
"What..."
Mary and Milo hadn't done a great job distracting Aaron since they pretty much went over there, got picked up and were currently being carried back towards Sam and Dean. Sam tried to give Milo the eyes, but it didn't do much good. It was way past their bedtime and even though they were excited Sam knew they weren't going to last much longer. Buster should have been sleeping hours ago and though he was toasty warm, he probably was going to be more comfortable in his nice warm bed.
"Dad took Max."
"Oh?" Sam said. "Why?"
"To show him the boats by the lake." Aaron said before he paused. "He seems to be under the impression that Max's parents came to the country on a boat."
"How did they get here if they didn't take a boat? I mean..."
"Mexico is connected to America, Dean."
"Still?"
"Anyway." Sam sighed. "I'm sure he'll be right back."
"I'm getting a little tired myself. I thought I'd take a couple of the kids inside. I told Jared and Jensen I'd keep an eye on the babies and Porter says Matthew is getting pretty tired."
"Good idea." Dean nodded. "You just going to hang out in the kid's room?"
"Yeah. Dad's going to bring Max up in a few minutes."
"Can you take this one too?"
Buster was completely over the party and the fireworks and the cold. Dean gave him fifteen kisses and Sam gave him and couple before handing him off to Aaron. He went around like the damned pied piper and gathered up a bunch of kids who were ready for bedtime and he had a whole parade walking behind him. Ollie even decided to join in and made sure to stop and give Sam and Dean both kisses before he trudged his way back up to the house.
With all of the littlest little kids in very capable hands and the bigger little kids still enjoying the fun and festivities, Sam thought it was time to check in with their big boy. Alex and Michael had been inseparable all evening and they sure did look good together. Alex had this insane smile plastered on his face and every time it looked like it might fade a little he managed to smile even bigger. Michael hadn't stopped laughing for about four hours. Sam had no idea what anyone had been saying to him, but it clearly the funniest shit he had ever heard.
"Hey, daddies!"
"Someone's been enjoying the expensive champagne he insisted we have."
"It's so bubbly!" Michael whispered. "Like your ass!"
"That's so sweet of you." Sam smiled. "Guys, it's really beautiful. I'm so proud and happy for you both."
"But you think more orchids, huh?"
"Well...honestly, if it was up to be I'd have orchids everywhere, but you did a fantastic job. Second best wedding I've ever been too."
"Me too." Michael smiled. "I love you dad."
"I love you too, baby."
"Me too." Dean said. "You got your black card for your honeymoon? It's on us?"
"Got it ready to go."
"And you'll talk care of our baby?"
"I will." Alex said. "He's my baby now too, officially. I was just telling Michael that I think a little more food and maybe some coffee would be nice."
"Not a bad idea."
"Okay." Michael groaned. "But then we get to watch more fireworks."
"Dean." Alex whispered. "Can you uh...return the favor I'm doing you?"
"Consider it done."
Sam wasn't sure what was going on, but Michael was wasted and needed a little coffee to compose himself. Before he left Alex motioned with his head towards the lake where two figures were standing very close to each other and talking quietly. Sam thought about busying himself with something else, but Dean grabbed his hand and together they walked over to the shore of the lake. There weren't any heaters out there and it was positively frigid, but Justin didn't seem to mind. Craig on the other hand looked like he was about to die.
"Go warm up." Sam said as he pecked his cheek. "You're so sweet and skinny."
"Justin."
"Go on. Can't do stuff to you if you're frozen."
Craig smiled, gave Justin's hand a squeeze and then ran as fast as he could to the closest heater. Sam thought that out of everyone he knew Justin and Craig had the most unique relationship and it had nothing to do with what went on between the sheets. They were just kind of odd, but not in a bad way, just different. Justin was so incredibly rough around the edges and Craig was like a perfect little pearl. It was obviously true that opposites were attracted to each other, but the reason they worked wasn't just because they were so different. It was because Craig was one of the best men Sam had ever met and considering the company he kept that was a great compliment.
"You okay?" Dean asked. "What's going on?"
"I didn't have a good day."
"Why?"
"It was supposed to be me. I know I screwed up, but that was supposed to be me up there. I'm glad it was Michael, he deserves Alex more than I ever did, he appreciates him more, and he needs him more, but it was supposed to be me, and I would have liked a little warning before I showed up her and they threw a penguin suit at me."
"Did you talk to Alex?" Sam asked. "I sure he'd understand how you feel."
"What kind of a raging dick would I be to make their wedding about me?"
"I won't have you talk bad about my least favorite brother!"
"I'm fine, it's just...you know it's hard. I'm going to marry Craig though and he's pretty awesome. I love Michael and I would never do anything to stand in the way of his happiness."
"Craig is very lucky to have you." Sam said. "You're a good man."
"And I'm the only one of us who can pass for straight."
"Okay." Dean laughed. "I don't know about all of that."
"I can see the concealer on your chin, you homo."
Justin was doing what he did best. He was changing the subject to avoid talking about his feeling any further. That wasn't Sam's style, but he wasn't one to judge how people dealt with things. It would have been nice to have Justin really open up, but maybe he didn't have to. He loved Alex, he was always going to love Alex, but their time had passed. Craig wasn't a substitute or a consolation prize, he was just someone else that Justin loved. It didn't matter who he loved more or who he'd ideally like to fall asleep next to. All that matter was that he was happy and Sam thought he was. He thought everyone involved in their little love square was very happy.
"It's my time of the mouth." Dean said. "I had a spot."
"Mmhmm."
"You sure you're okay?"
"Sam, I'm fine, I just wanted a heads up, but it's fine. I know how lucky I am. I've been loved by two incredible men some people don't get that."
"Sometimes they say they love you and then they jerk off on your face."
"Dean!"
"What? I was talking about me and Jensen."
"When did that happen?"
"Like twenty minutes ago. I was like "No, baby, I love you, lemme just splatter paint that Oscar winning mug." What a filthy little slut."
"Now I have a boner." Justin sighed. "Look at my future husband over there. He weighs ninety-five pounds, and ten of it is dick."
"Seriously?"
"Mmhmm."
Sam turned his head to the side, like Spotty often did to consider Craig. He was right next to one of the heaters with his ass pressed dangerously closed to it. When he noticed everyone staring at him he stood up straight and rather spastically waved. Ten pound dick or not he was adorable and Sam had a feeling him and Justin were going to be very happy together for the rest of their lives. Justin even ran over and scooped Craig up in his strong arms and held him extra close to the heater so they could both get toasty and warm in anticipation of doing stuff to each other.
"You ever jealous?"
"Of tall people?" Dean asked. "All the time."
"No, like Justin said he's had two men love him. We just have each other."
"First of all." Dean said before offering his hand. "Before his kids were born Auden would have left his wife for you."
"Okay. Maybe."
"Secondly, how quickly you forgot that someone killed God for you."
"That was a nice gesture...So, then are you jealous that I'm the only person who loves you."
"Ha!" Dean scoffed. "Brofo, please. I have Bruce and Jensen, and my fat boy, and my cinnamon bun, and Jenny."
"She's in love with you?"
"Baby, she got the D. There's no coming back from that."
"Fuck, I hate it when you're right."
"I usually am though."
"Does that mean Jess is in love with me?"
"Only if she misses being dead."
"Dean! Too soon."
"Whatever." Dean sighed. "Mr. Winchester, you owe me a dance."
"That could be arranged."
"Shall we?"
Sam nodded and took Dean's arm so they could return to the warm safety of the tent and dance next to all the other happy couples. Sam did have Auden, regardless of the number of kids involved, and Gabe did think he was a cute pie. He always had legions of adoring fans who would set the world on fire if he asked nicely, but all he cared about, all that mattered was that he had the very best, most handsome, sweetest man in the world, Milo. And while he was sleeping Dean was a semi adequate substitute.