Thank you all so, so, so much for your support through my hiatus and when I was originally writing this story long ago. I can't express how much it all means to me and that it's helped me through so much. You guys, gals, and others are the best out there. And I love and adore you all. This chapter is dedicated to you. The reader, the follower, the favorite-er, or/and the reviewer. Once more, I'd like to say I do not own Supernatural, these brilliant characters and the songs that'll appear throughout.

Thirteen Years Later...

If you had asked Dean Winchester, years ago, if he'd be standing at an altar in an ancient yet beautiful church someday, fretting over his clothes like a teenage girl: depending on who you are, he'd have laughed in your face or scowled with all his might.

But that was no longer true. Not anymore.

The hell am I so nervous for? I've known him forever, this shouldn't be so damn hard! He reminded himself. Out of the corner of his eye, he could see Sam smirking about something and Gabriel too, though small flashes of uneasiness crept over the shorter man's face, due to the fact he had complained earlier about his vest and under-shirt being too itchy.

"What are you two smirking for? Knock it off," Dean ordered sharply. He really wasn't in the mood for this, he just wanted to get this over with as soon as possible. Sweat formed in his palms and he could have sworn someone turned the heat up. Fierce green eyes with flecks of gold inside, roamed over the large crowd in front of him, chatting amongst themselves or nodding at whatever they saw. Cream-colored ribbons draped themselves across the pews of the church, with bundles of fresh, light-colored flowers holding them in place.

The church itself was brilliant, smooth white walls curving upwards into a peak. Stained glass windows depicting Jesus and other religious characters stood, standing proudly every several feet, the bright violets, yellows, greens, and browns shining. They were beautiful and noble-looking, as they should.

A large organ, cleaned and gleaming, was tucked in the far left corner, but was not used. Instead, some speakers and other things were placed in the opposite corner, with Kevin Tran, a good college friend of Sam's, had them running and playing one of Cas' favorite songs: Iron Doors by The Lighthouse and the Whaler. It wasn't Dean's kind of music, but he couldn't say no.

The song drifted through the black speakers, and was surprisingly calming, the beginning notes sounding reminiscent to Dean's choice of music:

...

I know you see me as-I am,

This time I don't know where to be-gin...

This is the moment I was look-king for,

Drawing his eyes to his mother and Bobby, a family friend who had a bigger part in the Winchester sons' life than they'd ever know, were sitting in the front bench, looking happier than ever. Hell, Mary was already starting to tear up and the thing hasn't even started yet. Parting a glance at the blonde woman, Bobby rolled his eyes and smiled, before turning to his wife Ellen and smiling once more, a little bigger this time.

John was no longer in the picture, fleeing after his jail time years ago and living with a new wife and son named Adam. As much as Dean somewhat missed him...he knew it was for the best.

After so many months of planning and preparing: writing vows, finding venues, eating cake samples (though Dean would always prefer pie), and still this reduced the normally tough, stubborn man to a shaky mess.

Oh, you can find me,

Just the way...you did when this began-an an an.

"Dude, you're going to be fine. It's not the first time you're meeting him, you know." Sam muttered, looking cool and collected, something relatively common. Over the years, Sam's hair had gotten longer and more...flowy. Dean more than not, told him he wanted to cut it, but that was out of the question. It used to be above his ears in a cute, floppy fashion, now it was down to his shoulders. Gabriel often braided it, with or without permission.

Taking a deep breath, Dean let himself be comforted, "Yeah...I know, Sam."

Just at that moment, Garth, a college friend of Castiel and Dean, and one of the most outrageously kind and optimistic people known, sprinted pass the pews, but thankfully not down the aisle, taking his place next to Gabriel. He actually looked pretty attractive in the light gray vest, pairing undershirt, midnight-black belt, and dress pants that made up the groomsmen's outfits. Dean's outfit, the groom, was a darker and fancier version of this, with a white rose accompanying the left, front side.

"Sorry, you guys. Just had to help Cas. He'll be here any minute, Dean!" Garth smiled, and in a flash, was hugging the groom and patting his back. A tiny smile graced Dean's lips and let himself be crushed. Then, the tall, kind man moved to Sam, and then Gabriel, surprising the both. Gabriel didn't know Garth that well, but let it slide. A few people in the crowd noticed and grinned fondly. Both sides of Dean's family came over, and so did Castiel's, making for large crowd.

Moving back to his position, Garth gave one more smile before coughing into his elbow.

And just like that, the familiar tune of an instrumental cover of A Thousand Years played. Signaling one man's arrival.

Everyone sucked in a breath, those who desperately wanted to see. Dean felt like he was slapped, his cheeks burning and betrayed his usual demeanor. Sam smiled along with Gabriel, dimples showing fully. If Garth could smile anymore, he was right now. The crowd in front of the men hushed, even Michael and Lucifer, Castiel and Gabriel's older brothers, who were always up to something or fighting.

People in their seats rose and turned their heads to face the aisle as the three bridesmaids: Charlie, Jo, and Meg. All college friends, except for Jo, who Sam and Dean had known for a long time. Ellen's daughter, she held the same strong, stubborn attitude as her mother. They were so alike they often butted heads.

Each woman headed down the aisle, smiling and looking beautiful. Each dress complimented their personality: Charlie's dress strapless and short, showing long legs and her red hair done so it was starkly contrasting against her red dress. She headed to her place a bit away from Dean and him a thumbs up, her other hand holding a bundle of white roses, and white and blue baby's breath flowers.

Jo was next, her feet moving just in time with the rhythm of the song, the chords/notes bouncing beautifully throughout the church. Jo's dress was sleeveless, showing her tanned, strong arms from work and the sun. While she'd tell you weddings and that kinda junk wasn't her thing, deep down she told herself that she looked beautiful, and everyone knew it. And, in secret, she loved the flowers. Taking her place next to Charlie, they smiled at each other and gave a meek kiss on the lips. Today was their first year anniversary of dating.

And last but not least, Meg arrived. Her dress, with thin straps, hugged her body's curves and stopped below her knees. Looking captivating, she knew some eyes lingered on her, but she kept an eye on her girlfriend, Ruby, who was sitting next to her brother, Crowley: a cunning man clothed in all black that could get you into any deal, no matter how good or bad. Burgundy lipstick complimented her heart-shaped face and she winked at Ruby and smirked at her brother. She took her place next to Jo.

With the bridesmaids here, all that was left was for Castiel to arrive. Dean was more nervous than he had ever been in his whole life. And he had no clue as to why. The song from before kept playing, and the groom tried his best to focus on the notes, the sounds keeping him on Earth.

And finally, Cas arrived.

Looking at the love of his life and his only one, Dean drew a breath. Castiel looked breathtaking: a tan waistcoat and pants hugging his frame and looking so right Dean couldn't bear it. Castiel had picked it out because of the color looking like his beloved trench coat, that he still wore. The thing was still big enough. A crisp white shirt underneath defined his broad shoulders and looking fresh and bright against his tan, warm skin. Just like Dean, a white rose clung to the left side of his waistcoat, Cas didn't want to hold a bouquet, after a lot of teasing from Gabriel.

A blue tie, the same navy blue tie from all those years ago, still hung around his collar. Worn to hell and frayed, Cas couldn't bear to throw it away. It held too much sentiment, he said. Whether it was backwards, Dean did not know.

Welcoming a cooling sense of relief, Dean grinned happily. The man he had loved for so long, he could finally call "husband", "official life partner", and all of those cheesy things. The eldest Winchester son thought he was falling in love all over again, seeing the blue-eyed man who stole his heart and kept it warm and safe. Castiel beamed when he saw him, and Chuck, his father who was bringing him down the aisle, smiled truly for the first time in years.

With one final step, Cas was in front of Dean, as he should be. Guests sat in their seats, proudly grinning at the couple before them, along with Kevin, who changed the speakers' song to Can't Help Falling in Love by Fleet Foxes, lowered the volume, and added some more instrumental music to play afterward. And the soon to be husbands smiled at each other, and Dean felt the tips of his ears burn at the couple of camera flashes that appeared.

"Hello, Dean." Cas breathed, a light blush standing out against the dark stubble lining his jaw.

Dean took a deep breath, needing to calm himself, "Hey, Cas." The pair joined hands, fingers tangling together, fitting like pieces of a puzzle.

Chuck, being the Justice of the Peace, stood himself in front of the altar, and cleared his throat. Usually a nervous man with an odd attempt at facial hair, he looked strong and authoritative. For once, his voice did not quake or fall apart. It stayed solid.

"Ladies and gentlemen, today we have gathered here together to celebrate the marriage of Castiel Novak and Dean Winchester. Marriage is the promise between two people who love each other, who trust each other, who honor one another as individuals in that togetherness, and who wish to spend rest of their lives with each other. It enables the two separate souls to share their desires, longings, dreams, joys and sorrows, and to help each other through all uncertainties in life.

Both gentlemen have decided to give their own personal vows to each other. And after that, we will present the rings." Looking at Dean, Chuck nodded and stepped back a bit. Although Dean couldn't feel it, he could sense Sam, Gabriel, and Garth's smiles directed at him and Castiel. And looking forward, past his lover, he saw Charlie, Jo, and Meg smiling also.

He felt his heart hammer in his chest, and his stomach was flipping a million times. Come on, you can do this. You're Batman. Remember that, he told himself. And before he knew it, he cleared his throat and started to speak:

"I'm not too good at this kinda stuff, Cas. And you know that. But what I do know...is that I love you. And I want to spend the rest of my life with you. When I first met you, I thought you were just going to leave me alone. Like everyone did. But you didn't...you stayed by my side and helped me through things I didn't think were possible.

When I wanted to drop outta highschool and...then college, you told me "no" and that I was too good for it. And now, I thank you for that. Because without that, I wouldn't be where I am...and I wouldn't have met all these people that I know and love. So...I want to spend the rest of my days with you, Cas, because I need you. You're my best friend, I want to grow old and grumpy with you. I love you more than anything, Cas."

Hot tears pricked at the back of his eyes, and Dean blinked them away. That was the last thing he wanted to do right now. But every word he said was true, and he'd never regret saying any of it.

A few sniffles were echoing through the church, and looking up from their tangled hands, Dean saw blue eyes grow damp. And he grinned, feeling loved and happier than ever. Chuck smiled, wet tears dripping down his face, a bit of a softie he is. He then looked at Cas and nodded.

"Dean, I've grown accustomed to your quirks, your habits, your flaws, and your strong suits. And I...I love all of them. When I first saw you, that faithful day, in Ms. Summers' class, I knew you were the one I wanted to spend my days with. Through your shyness, I saw a bright soul. I saw someone that wanted to do good in this world, and someone who loved people so easily and so hard. And I adored it.

You welcomed me into your family, and I met wonderful people. You're the first person I've ever fallen in love with, Dean. And I want you to be the last. I love you. And I want to spend the rest of my days with you, to see our hair grow gray and lines cover your face and mine. And in the days where I will remember nothing, I will remember you and only you. Because you're the one worth remembering."

And that's when Dean lost it. Some hot, wet tears streaked his face. In that moment, he fully knew that Cas loved him. And Dean loved him so much more, that he felt his heart would burst. Maybe this wasn't Dean Winchester, maybe it was a more...emotional Dean Winchester. But in this moment, it felt so right that it must be him.

Now even more sniffles and one or two sobs filled the church. From what he could see, all the bridesmaids were crying, except for Meg, who looked calm and cool as always. Dean's family and friends' side of the church was half crying and half smiling widely. He couldn't bear, though, seeing Sam or Cas' family and friends.

Stepping forward back in to his proper place, Chuck cleared his throat and tried to look composed. And eventually he did, "Now we will exchange the rings and complete this marriage." And digging through his pocket, he pulled out two golden wedding rings, both fitted to either Dean's or Castiel's ring finger.

Facing Dean, Chuck cleared his throat, "Do you take Castiel Novak to be your lawfully wedded husband, to have and to hold from this day on, for better or for worse, for richer or for poorer, in sickness and in health, as long as you both shall live?"

The words poured from Dean's mouth, "I do." Another smile broke across his face, and Cas made a pleased sound the back of his throat, grinning also.

Turning to Cas, Chuck smiled, "Do you take Dean Winchester to be your lawfully wedded husband, to have and to hold from this day on, for better or for worse, for richer or for poorer, in sickness and in health, as long as you both shall live?"

Castiel nodded, sapphire eyes sparkling like a thousand stars, "I do." And within a few seconds, the ring was firmly around their finger, feeling fresh and proper.

Gazing at the crowd, Chuck beamed, "Ladies and gentlemen, I present to you Mr. and Mr. Winchester-Novak!" The crowd clapped fiercely and cheered. With that, the newest husbands held each other in a warm, close embrace and pressed their mouths long and passionately. Love and affection blossomed between the two souls, and new feelings that weren't discovered before came anew. The love over the thirteen years of knowing each other came again, brighter and stronger than ever. And the two were ready for the life ahead.

Pulling apart, they rested foreheads against one another, not bothering to hear to noise around them. Sure, they knew they had to get going and leave, but they wanted to just say something practiced and old.

"I love you, Cas." Dean breathed.

"I love you too, Dean."

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

After all the commotion of the party starting up, Dean and Castiel were finally ready for their last dance of the night. Taking place outside of the church, in a breathtaking park a few hundred feet away, the spring breeze danced its' way around the couple. Receiving a hefty pile of gifts, they couldn't wait to open them up when they finally got home.

People surrounded the couple, watching intently and with care. Sam and Gabriel were busy smearing cake at each other, but eventually paid attention to the two standing on the dance floor, holding each other with all the love and adoration in the world. The song of choice was I'm Gonna Be (500 Miles) by Sleeping at Last. This both combined Dean's love of the original song and Cas' love of the slow, sad tune it held in this cover.

Starting to sway and move to the music, the couple gazed in each other's eyes, green holding blue, and foreheads pressed together, interlocking thoughts.

When I wake up, well, I know I'm gonna be,
I'm gonna be the man who wakes up-next to you
And when I go out, yeah, I know I'm gonna be,
I'm gonna be the man who goes along with you

And when I come home, yeah, I know I'm gonna be,
I'm gonna be the man who's coming home to-you
And when I'm dreaming, well, I know I'm gonna dream,
I'm gonna dream about the time when I'm with you

But I would walk 500 miles
And I would walk 500 more,
Just to be-e the man who walked a 1000 miles,
To fall down at your door

When I'm working, yeah, I know I'm gonna be,
I'm gonna be the man who's working hard for-you
And when the money comes in for the work I do,
I'll pass along every cent of-it to you

And when I'm lonely, well, I know I'm gonna be
I'm gonna be the man who's lonely without-you
And if I grow old, well I know I'm gonna be,
I'm gonna be the man who's growing old with you

But I would walk 500 miles
And I would walk 500 more,
Just to be the man who walked a 1000 miles,
To fall down at your door,

But I would walk 500 miles
And I would walk 500 more,
Just to be the man who walked a 1000 miles,
To fall down at your door

When I wake up, well, I hope I'm gonna be
I'm gonna be the man who's waking up to you
And when I'm dreaming, well, I know I'm gonna dream
I'm gonna dream about the time I had with you

Once the last chords of the song struck, the pair kissed beneath the stars. Souls once more coming together and making one.