[ it's not right but this is the way it has to be. dean can feel his conviction waver with cas' words, with the lack of understanding, the almost desperate tone he can hear. but he can't back down, won't let himself. instead, he keeps packing until there's nothing else left to pack, right until cas' hand is curling around arm.

it's like fire, like he's being burned how quickly, how viciously dean whips around and snatches his arm back, eyes steel. his voice is hard, dangerous-- ]

Don't touch me.

[ because then he won't leave.

a moment, some of that anger fading, though his tone remains firm. ]

It's better for both of us, Cas. I know you don't see it now, but you will, and you'll-- you'll thank me for this one day. For letting you go.

[ for keeping you safe, for distancing himself. ]