This is Halloween | Itinere

[dudeimbatman]

Itinere does something every Halloween. It appears like magic on the morning of the 31st then disappears just as magically on November 1st. Sometimes it's more trick than treat, but this year in keeping with Itinere's recent graciousness, Halloween is all treat. The stores are bedecked in black and orange. Skeletons, more cartoonish than terrifying, hang on doors and there are pumpkins aglow with warm light everywhere. Even the foliage has turned red, gold, orange, and brown overnight. The air is just brisk enough to warrant a jacket or a sweater. The town has turned into a Fall Wonderland.

A fall festival has sprung up in the town square complete with rides, games, hot drink stands, and food trucks. Take a hayride or explore the corn maze. Try your hand at a shooting game or ring toss. Even if you lose, every vendor, shop, ride, and stand is handing out candy. You won't leave empty-handed.

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[mademeasaint]

Halloween in Itinere is in a lot of ways like it was in Lawrence. Every shop had candy to hand out, decor from window to window and the smell of pumpkin spice drifted from some promising restaurant corner into the autumn air. It brought back a lot of memories that weren't so long ago for Mary. Like when Dean was three he dressed up like a cowboy similar to the ones that would run by her through out the day. More memories like that would come up as she spent the time to look into and enjoy what was happening today.

For a little bit she was on her own so she could shop, but nothing she would rather do than spend time with her boys. One by one, Mary seeks them out with a call and an idea of where they would meet.

[dudeimbatman]

Dean is a little wary of Halloween, particularly once the night falls. Sure, last year hadn't been bad, but Sam had nearly died on November 1st. However, all of Dean's doubts about Halloween and Itinere get buried under the bat suit. Yes, folks. That's right: Dean Winchester is Batman for Halloween with a legit suit thanks to Itinere. He puts it on straight out of the shower and makes pancakes in it.

Needless to say, when Mary calls Dean is still wearing the Batsuit but he is also ready for pie. He's walking around the Carnival talking to kids and he might have stopped by to say hello to Carmen (because he's Batman today and he might want to impress her, just a little) [Spoiler alert: Carmen thought he was ridiculous and adorable].

He walks into the diner and heads straight to the booth where Mary is sitting, sliding into the vinyl booth (okay the suit sticks to the vinyl a little). "What's the pie special today, Bat Mom?" He grins at her like a dork. "So are you a farmer or a super cute Mom scarecrow?"

[mademeasaint]

Maybe Itinere has decided to go easier on them this year as a small consolation. One thing for sure is that things are neither peachy for the Winchesters nor are they all that bad. Mary saves time for these outings. (Sam is only a text away from the next lunch or tea date.) Things with John and Sam are the only work in progress. As for Dean's bat suit, it's hard not to see his enjoyment in playing a superhero. Mary can only smile when she sees him really into it first thing in the morning or when he claims the pancakes are bat cakes.

She welcomes him at the table with her hand rested on her cheek, eyes fixed on the costume before his. Bat Mom, he says. She smiles at how silly (and adorable) it sounds from him. "Slime pie, Batman." To show him, she turns the display card to him. Exactly what it is is unknown to her. He's observant to notice how his Halloween spirit how inspired her to change. "Yes. My favorite farmer doll when I was growing up looked like this."

[dudeimbatman]

The Winchesters have certainly proved that they don't need Itiniere to create drama; they're capable of that all by themselves. Dean hates the way things are right now. He understands where John is coming from. After all, he'd had issues trusting Ruby as well, but he'd been allowed to deal with them in a way that made sense to him. John can't do that. He has to figure out how to trust Ruby like a normal person, and he's bad at that. Besides that, John and Sam have always been explosive and butt heads over the smallest things. It's to be expected they'll butt heads over something major like this. They were bat cakes! Bat shaped pancakes.

Dean is ridiculous. Mary has probably figured that out by now. In so many ways, Dean is a responsible adult but he's also still a kid. He makes a 'huh' sort of sound as he looks at the display card. "One slice of slime pie and a slice of cherry in case it sucks." He considers Mary's comment, visibly pleased that Mary is sharing bits of her childhood with him. He frowns a little then grins. "I didn't know they made farmer dolls. I totally would have nabbed Sam one if I had."

[mademeasaint]

Yes, the Winchesters never do need anybody to create their drama for them. Way before this, for example, Sam and John have butt heads on things ranging from sleeping in to hair length. At the time, they were able to get past it as the day went on. Now? Not so much. Mary wishes there was some thing she could think of, too. But her feelings are mixed. And Sam and John obviously need more time to clear their heads. If she was gonna think up something to resolve it, it would first have to be when a good opportunity arises. It'd have to be when they were all ready to sit and talk. She knows John can't right now. The chocolate chip eyes on the bat cakes were also a cute touch!

She appreciates how Dean as her first child grew up to have a sense of humor reflecting the same goofy kid that was always excited about food. It's one of the first things that put her at ease about him. She chuckles at Dean's caution because it is not what she expect he will find. "We should ask if they will us bring half of each." After all, it's the two of them. She's ready to eat her fair share too. There's a little more to the story that comes with thinking about her doll again. Dean doesn't remember so she tells him, "I gave you that doll when you were a baby. Your Grandmother made it." She grins back with the idea of Sam having one; the context is very sweet.

[dudeimbatman]

Sam and John are far too much alike to ever really get along. Mary doesn't know it, but they've been fighting since Sam was about 12 or 13. Honestly, Dean would probably worry more if Sam and John got along all the time. Dean has always been really good at getting Sam to eat; little things like chocolate chip eyes are a part of that.

Dean won't ever share with Mary that his sense of humor is the only thing that has kept him going some days. He grins at Mary's suggestion because it's a good one and he likes that his mom eats the way he does (or as close to any other person Dean knows). Dean looks a little surprised at Mary's reveal, though he shouldn't be."Yeah? I don't remember it. 'Least I don't think I do." He pauses to consider it a moment then shakes his head, brow furrowing. "Maybe a little?" He wants to remember it, but like most of his memories of Mary, he isn't sure how much is made up because he wants it and how many are real.

[mademeasaint]

What Mary doesn't know can't hurt her. Besides she's seen how John and Sam get on and how Dean and Sam get along on good days and that's what stands out. She doesn't expect them to always get along either. Dean is more than good at getting Sam to eat something beside greens; Mary wouldn't be able to think of a time she saw Sam eat unhealthy if not for the fact that she pays attention to their bond. The boys grew up close just like she had hoped.

They have that common. Some days, all she has to cope with the whiplash of timeis the faces of her family and their stories. Today is one of the better ones. She could give him a run for his money in round one of an eating contest, but no one eats close to as much Dean does unless they're pregnant. (P.S. She ate way too much when pregnant with Dean). She doesn't fault him for not remembering; he was four at the time. "It's okay that you don't remember." She hopes that eases his mind despite the obvious way he wants to remember it. She'd be open to any questions he had about what was real.

[dudeimbatman]

They're family and they love each other. That matters more than their differences. They grew up very close and Dean wouldn't change that even if he could. He had a chance (sort of) to change it with Carmen and he didn't.

There is nothing that Dean wouldn't do to give Mary (and the Winchester men) those years back. (Maybe that's Dean's problem or maybe he was the influence. John had actually worried a little about it, but he was smart enough not to say anything). It does ease his unfounded guilt when she says it's okay that he doesn't remember. He hesitates a moment and takes a sip of his coffee. "I--I remember you dancing around the kitchen with me." His brow furrows. "The Beatles...maybe?" He looks up at her, eyebrow raised in askance.

[mademeasaint]

Mary loves the Winchester men so she will be relived when the fight ends between John and Sam. For now it's the little things. There is something to be said about what she's seen of Dean and Carmen as well, but it's too early to say anything.

How much they're alike sometimes is almost uncanny and there is nothing she wouldn't do to give Dean some piece of mind as well. Moving from one memory to another works for her. Did they order the pie already? It arrives when Dean looks thoughtful yet uncertain of his memory. Mary remembers it like yesterday and smiles to confirm he remembers it fine. "Always... Okay well, some of the time. You liked to dance so we weren't waiting for dinner to finish cooking." She may be biased but Dean was the sweetest kid she knew.

[dudeimbatman]

Right now Dean is taking things slow with Carmen. There's a lot for both of them to process. He's not surprised that the djinn world he experienced was real to Carmen, or even that she's here. He's seen stranger things here with timelines and alternate universes, but there are so many other factors going on here. He died in Carmen's world while in his world, this world he's fifteen years older. The differences between their two worlds extend to almost every facet of their lives; however, she's still his literal dream girl and he's still (at least in part) the man she loves (loved). They're giving it a shot. No doubt, Dean will eventually talk to Mary about dating since it's not something he's done in a very long time.

For the moment, that's the only way Dean knows. It helps that they've been building a relationship here. The pie arrives at the perfect time. He grins at her addition to the memory. "I still don't like waiting to eat," he tells her. "Maybe that's part of why I like cooking." He's doing something active while waiting to eat. She's absolutely biased, but that's okay. Dean likes her memory of his childhood.

[mademeasaint]

As far as she knows Mary has not heard anything stranger than Carmen's story and life in an alternate world. Though it's neither here nor there. Dean's her first born and the shot he is giving Carmen hasn't escaped her notice. She will have some wisdom to share with Dean when/if he talks to her about dating.

One of the things she is grateful for is the relationship they're building. Perfect timing. She chuckles simply because one one hand neither does she like waiting for food and also he didn't get cooking from her. She can see why Dean does better with something to do. "You never could sit still," she provides. "Usually, you would need juice or a cheese stick to stay at the table." She recalls a time or two when he would get it for himself.

[dudeimbatman]

He chuckles at her recollection. "It's a damn wonder I didn't end up a fat little kid." Let's be honest, it's a damn miracle he's not a fat big kid now. Winchester metabolism is the eighth wonder of the world.

He considers a moment. "Sammy had this phase he went through. He was a chubby little kid then he decided he wanted to be on the soccer team. He was pretty good. Lost all his baby fat. Probably had something to do with turning 12 too."

[mademeasaint]

She stifles a laugh. Picturing Dean with chubby cheeks is simple (he had them when he was four), but a belly is a little harder. "I'm not sure if that comes from your father's side or mine." Or it could come from both sides.

It does not escape her attention that everything but Dean is in that story. "And your face when you were little was different?"

[mightbeconcussed]

Halloween is hands down Lucy's favorite holiday. Sure, she can dress up (and often does) any day of the week, but on Halloween, no one looks at her like she's a little weird (not that it changes her wardrobe decisions). This year Lucy is a <href=https://belianterbaik.aseanpriceblog.org/cf/1050/cdn/htb1h7g8xhrvk1rjsszeq6yobfxag/2019-new-sexy-mermaid-cosplay-witch-performance-uniform-dresses-shiny-bra-halloween-costumes-for-women-.jpg>mermaid. Of course, it means she has to take very tiny steps, but the overall look is totally worth it.

She spends lunch hour in the Houndstooth and hands out a cavity-inducing amount of candy, but once the restaurant has emptied out, she heads for the carnival. She desperately needs a funnel cake and some hot cider. She's got a gold lame cape with fur lining to wear over her costume and a shell-shaped purse to put candy in because hell yeah she's going trick or treating.

[tiredofurinating]

On the other hand, Halloween is a very confusing time for a certain angel. Sure, the concept has been explained to him. Though different people have offered conflicting rationals over the years. If Dean is to believed, it's about candy. If Sam is, then it has to do with the Gaelic festival Samhain. Though how costumes come into it is something he still can't grasp. However, to be fair, some of the better costumes are deceiving. It takes him a second glance sometimes to be sure he isn't looking a real monster.

It's, of course, a breath of fresh air when he steps into the restaurant Lucy works as it's nearly cleared out and free from the sensory overload. It's no secret that he is human today because he walks in. On a scale of one to ten to how hungry he is, he's about a six or seven. He sits down in his regular spot as all the other times when he's seen Lucy by himself and waits rather than feign interest in the menu. When she comes over in her mermaid attire, all the extra skin he can see causes his chest to feel tight. "You dressed up." He acknowledges, less articulately than desired. Compliments are not his strong suit.

[mightbeconcussed]

It's best to just embrace the benefits of Halloween and not worry too much about how it does or doesn't make sense. Lucy actually knows the answer to why they wear costumes though: to hide from the demons, ghosts and other monsters that are rumored to come out on Halloween night. In that case, whether the costume-wearer meant it or not, the costume is doing its job. To be fair, a lot of modern costumes probably don't make much sense in this context either.

It's quiet this time of day. Lucy does have some music on, but the volume isn't too loud. It's true, Castiel usually does pop in when he's an angel, but she's not entirely certain that he's human until he makes his observation. A bright smile curves her lips at both the realization and the observation. "Every year and sometimes even when it's not Halloween," she admits then turns in a slow circle so he can get a better look at her costume. "What do you think? Are they going to kick me out of the ocean?" It's okay; she'll guide him into a compliment.

[tiredofurinating]

No, they don't. If it weren't for the people still dressing up as ghoulies and monsters, the more modern costumes would look like people simply to work. Cas, at least, wouldn't know the difference between "casual" wear and sexy costume. He's seen all types around the Winchesters and the back roads of America.

Though the attempt here is more obvious. Cas has been getting better at noticing not just faces and moods, but the intricacies of those around him. Maybe the volume isn't loud, but the pop music is soothing in the way that it lets him know that Lucy is around. Hers is a smile that prompts him to test one of his own out on her. "Yes, you do have a habit of dressing up." There is a slight bit of approval when he nods at her circling around, though for a moment he looks as if he can't latch onto the point. "... I believe they would keep you."

[mightbeconcussed]

Fashion is weird and subjective. Cas isn't alone in thinking that. To some people, there is no difference in casual wear and sexy costume. Casual is also one of those things that are subjective. For instance, Lucy wears a dress nearly every day and considers it 'casual'.

Subtle isn't really one of Lucy's qualities. She's considering knocking off for the day, but Cas has caught her just in time. His smile is a good one. He ought to use it more. That's one of the things that Lucy is trying to do: get him to use that smile more. "Maybe because I never did decide what I want to be when I grow up," she suggests. "Is mermaid a career?" she jokes. That approval combined with his confusion makes Lucy smile and she plops down sideways, lightly in Cas's lap. "What are you eating, Handsome?"

[tiredofurinating]

She could tell him his timing caught her on her way out and he would respect that. There's more than the restaurant where either of them could be right now. His smile is a work in progress. He's better at it only because he has a good teacher. "Yes. That is one plausible reason. Humans are complex creatures." He is aware he is also human right now and thus wonders how it affects him. His head tilts at the question as it's a strange thing to ask in a light tone. "... I've learned that the impossible does not stop humans from trying. Perhaps you would be the first to find a way."

This is not the first time she has sat on his lap and nor is it the first time a tingle creeps up his spine. He is a little more used to what it signifies too. Yes, he feels flattered being called handsome too. She has his attention when she smiles and he places his hands where they might only keep her from sliding at the odd angle. "I'd be happy to have leftovers."

[mightbeconcussed]

She could, but she won't. After all, they've got the Houndstooth to themselves and she's got food in the kitchen. Lucy always did have problems with the concept of growing up. Maybe that's what makes her ask in a light tone of voice. His answer makes her smile. His honest belief in people is one of her favorite things about Castiel.

She knows what that tingle up his spine signifies as well and she likes having that effect on him. He should place his hands a little lower on her hips, but she does like the way he holds onto her gently. She mock-gasps at him. "Like I would do that to you!" she says in a teasing tone of voice. "It won't take long to make chicken or a burger and fries. Oh! There is leftover homemade mac and cheese, but I made it just before lunch so it's not old."

[tiredofurinating]

It's for that reason Castiel sees a lot of light in her soul when his grace isn't on the fritz. To be fair, the Houndsooth is the most familiar place to him where he has her company.

Some part of him knows this, but is also certain the angle she currently has on him isn't sustainable without his hands on a firmest spot. Castiel can't see what is wrong with leftovers, but if he's learned anything from her mock gasps, it's that somehow he's seeing it in the wrong light. "Is there something wrong with the leftovers?" he asks in a puzzled tone. She confirms there is not when she brings up the mac and cheese and it sounds as appealing, if not more so than the burger and fries because it's ready. Castiel's stomach growls loud enough for the both of them to hear. 

[mightbeconcussed]

Lucy doesn't expect her soul to be light. She drinks too much and has too much sex (without being married) for one. Of course, her Baptist upbringing and Castiel don't have the same definition of good and evil. She likes his definition better.

She would grab onto his shoulders or neck if she started to slip, but she likes his hands on her regardless. There's nothing wrong with leftovers, but food is part of Lucy's love language and she doesn't want him to feel like she's slighting him by not making something especially for him. She shakes her head at his question. "I just want you to get something you like," she assures him. She laughs at the way his stomach growls. "I guess mac and cheese it is," she declares and slips out of his lap, heels clicking on the hardwood floor.

"I'll be right back," she promises him then pauses and tilts her head at him. "Or you can come to the kitchen with me. We'll raid the fridge and eat back there."

[tiredofurinating]

He could tell her humans have been having sex for centuries without the concept of marriage attached to it to signify the righteousness of it. However, he has some understanding why a person might not think their soul is light.

If she were to grab on to him, the result would probably not be what either of them expect and would be at somewhat passionate on his part. Firstly, food is unappealing only when he is an angel. Second, the quality he's had when he was human pales in comparison to Lucy's love language, even leftovers. He won't feel slighted over whatever she decides. He nods his head as if he understands it a little. "When you put it that way," he starts. His stomach rumbles more calmly the second time, which prompts another nod to her. "I believe that is what my stomach is trying to say, yes." Or his cravings. It's really unclear at the moment.

First she wants him to wait, then she indicates for him to follow; Cas stands on his feet, of course, without thinking too much about the mix message. "It sounds like I should go with you. I was not aware you were hungry too." 

[mightbeconcussed]

Lucy understands cravings. She also understands being hungry enough that you want the fastest food available. As long as he's happy, she's happy.

Sorry, Cas. She's not always direct. She is glad he chooses to go with her. "I'll eat a little," she assures him. Lucy tends to nibble throughout the day. She reaches for his hand, fingers threading with his fingers and leads him toward the kitchen through the swinging door. She gets a bowl of pasta and a bowl of three-cheese sauce from the industrial fridge. She puts some of both in a pot on the stovetop and turns the heat on low to start it heating. She leans her hip against the counter. "I can add lobster to it if you want. There are also cupcakes."

[tiredofurinating]

She also is a little better at navigating hunger than Castiel, which might be why she is his food buddy. Happiness is a complex feeling he has yet to understand, but he would think he is.

Nothing much is lost for her indirect cue. There would only be more rumors to float around if they were spotted kissing in the restaurant. Or the health department would be called. "Yes. Let me know how I can help." It does not occur to him that there would be any difference between a little or a lot. He folds his fingers through hers just the same as she does and matches her pace into the kitchen until it's natural that they both let go. He stands next to the fridge and observes her in a somewhat awkward fashion.

"Cupcakes um... will do. I can't speak for the lobster, but I know cupcakes stay delicious for up to a day." Because the question makes it sound like the only option was either or.