Every Me Loves Every You

Castiel doesn’t even spot him until orientation. He’s stunned, and angry. Without saying a word, Balthazar leads him down the halls to the laundry, private under the roar of the industrial washers.

Propping himself up on the edge of the table, Balthazar offers a warm, easy smile that Castiel doesn’t return.

“How did this happen?”

Spreading his hands, Balthazar shrugs. “A perjury charge, of course.”

“You should have known I wouldn’t lie,” Castiel says, a little sadly. “That was a terrible plan.”

“I figured it could end one of three ways,” Balthazar starts. “One, we both lied and were both charged. Two, we both lied and got off. Or, three, I lied, you told the truth, as is your wont, and we were both charged…albeit on rather different counts.”

Beckoning Castiel closer, Balthazar helps him onto the table by his side and wraps an arm around his shoulders. “Admittedly, this isn’t exactly what I had in mind. But, darling, the important thing is that we’re here together.”

“Until you’re released long before I am,” Castiel murmurs, still doubtful. “What then?”

“Then it’s only a matter of weeks before your first chance at parole,” Balthazar says cheerfully. “You and I are going to stay well out of trouble, and Naomi will make sure you get out at the first opportunity.” He stretches an arm out theatrically. “Then it’s off to France, where we’ll be married and live in the countryside! They’ll never hand you over!”

“That’s just gratuitously illegal.” Castiel pauses. “Did Naomi know about your ‘plan’?”

Balthazar hesitates before answering. “I’m sorry, Cassie… I thought if either of you knew, I’d never make it to the stand at all. I am truly sorry; I never meant to upset you so.”

They sit in silence for a long moment, leaning on each other, Castiel’s head on Balthazar’s shoulder. Castiel speaks up quietly.

“I’m sorry, too. I’m…glad you’re here.”

Balthazar smiles softly.

“Everything’s going to be fine, dove. I promise.”