It’s been a week since Michael was defeated and Dean freed, but Castiel can’t seem to get back on the horse. Dean, on the other hand appears to have bounced back completely, with one small exception: he no longer dares touch the now-human Cas at all.
When they receive a call from Jesse and Cesar to come investigate a series of mysterious drownings near their New Mexico ranch, Dean jumps on the job, much to Cas and Sam’s dismay. But more challenging than the kelpie they encounter, Jesse and Cesar’s relationship holds up a mirror, showing Dean and Cas the future they wish they could have. When Rowena and Charlie get involved, a shake-up is inevitable.
Thirteen years ago, Dean, with Cas by his side, bought the run-down Pine Shores Motel, and made it into a home and a stopping place for hunters. In those thirteen years, he has never been able to bring himself to admit his feelings to Cas—after all, why rock the boat? But, Dean realizes, doesn’t Cas deserve more than just growing old in a shabby motel with Dean? Surely, as a good friend, it’s Dean’s job to encourage Cas to get out there and live his dreams.
Castiel Shurley has always done his duty by his family. When his father dies, Castiel inherits not only the title of Viscount, but also deep debts. At his aristocratic mother's behest, he agrees to court Miss Celeste "Charlie" Middleton—a wealthy heiress, but the daughter of cits. Though they are not in love—and though he secretly has feelings for her cousin, the charming Dean Winchester—Castiel and Charlie soon agree to wed.
But Castiel's life is upended by the arrival of his scandalous Aunt Amara, who reveals that he is not the son of Charles and Naomi, but illegitimate, taken from his unwed mother to serve as Charles’s heir. When she carries out her threat to reveal the truth to the world, Castiel loses his title, his home, and his place in the world. Feeling honour-bound to break off his engagement, he finds himself invited to stay instead, as a member of Dean and Charlie's unconventional household, and learns the meaning of freedom.
Castiel’s favourite memories are of childhood summers spent at his Aunt Amara’s cottage in the small town of Angel Lake, until a falling out between his father and his aunt put a stop to the visits. So, when the opportunity arises to move there and take over from a local beekeeper, he jumps at the chance. He’s even more pleased to discover that Dean, his childhood friend and first crush, is still in town and eager to resume their friendship, even after Cas comes out to him. It’s a pity Dean is straight. Dean’s as attractive as ever, but while he tries to be supportive, it’s clear to Cas that a part of him is still uncomfortable with Cas’s sexuality.
Dean’s life didn’t end up where he expected, but he loves it in Angel Lake. He’s thrilled when Cas comes back, this time for good. It’s too bad that Cas just politely ignores Dean’s attempts at flirtation. Just because Cas was Dean’s bi awakening, it doesn’t mean he wants to tie himself to Dean in return.