Supernatural Death Note Chapter 81

Authors: Lady Laran and Tisha Wyman Warnings: Bad language, violence, and some sex. Spoilers: My favorite show is Supernatural. Anyone who knows me will say I am almost obsessed, unless they happen to be Laran, who knows I am. Laran loves Death Note. We both love to write. Never in our wildest dreams did we ever think we'd be writing an alternate universe/crossover between the two. What started as a several chapter story has turned into a novel The story had a life of its own. This saga begins towards the end of season 4 and before L truly got involved with the Death Note. This is a story of healing, family,friendship, humor, and horror. We do not own either show or its characters, but I'd take Dean in a heartbeat. We make no money from them. Thank you for reading. Comments are highly appreciated.

Dean and Lisa Talk.

Dean had had a good time, but it had tired him. Things like this made him realize how weak his body still was, but he had survived for quite a while, just himself against all the rest. He was satisfied that things were getting better. It really did take time though. He soaked in a tub filled with sandalwood scented bath salts. He started to doze off, and had to shake himself awake. He finally let the water out, dried off, walked over to the bed, and climbed in...not even thinking about boxers.

Lisa came to check on him, cuddling with him after putting boxers on him in case Ben came in to cuddle. She wasn't sure if he realized she'd come in. She recognized his need to sleep so much as exhaustion. Watari had mentioned to her that it would take the hunter a while to get his strength back, but she knew he'd had fun. She also knew she was glad she wasn't one of the bad guys.

The woman curled with him, rubbing his back gently. Dean moaned softly as she rubbed his back. She remembered that he'd injured it the day before. She checked it. The bruises were bad but his actions that day proved he could handle the pain from it and that it was not seriously debilitating to him.

She found some deep heating rub and began working on the injured areas again, wanting to help him relax and get out of pain quickly. Dean moaned softly, and whispered, “Don't stop, please.”

"I'm not going to," she murmured. "Just relax." He felt her start to massage his butt where he had taken the brunt of the fall. He stiffened for a moment. “I'm not wearing anything, Lisa.”

"Yes you are," she laughed softly. Even in his exhaustion, Dean was a flirter. A slight smirk quirked one lip. “It's been ten years. I still look good to you?”

"Very sexy and handsome, Dean. I'm a very lucky lady," Lisa smiled.

“I'm the lucky one, Lisa. You are so beautiful and incredibly hot, and I can talk to you about anything. I've never had that with a woman who actually loved me and wanted me to stay. That's important to me.”

Her smile grew brighter even as her hands continued to work out the knots in his back.

“You've got magic hands, hon.”

Dean noticed that is was dark. “I've been sleeping for a while? What time is it?”

"After nine," she said with a smile.

“Damn. I guess I over did it today.” He got that lazy smile that sent such a thrill through her. “It was fun, though. I liked straddling you, soaking you down, and kissing you like that. Hated having to run off though.”

She laughed, still working on his back. "I think someone likes the idea of getting me all wet."

The smile returned, and the lazy whisper responded, “Yeah, but your head was the wrong place I'd like to see wet.”

A light tap was given against the back of his head. "Pervert," Lisa teased.

The hazel eyes looked serious for a moment as he looked into her eyes, trying to read her. “Would you rather I wasn't? I can be if you prefer it. It might be hard around you, and that's no pun intended, but I can be that if you need it from me.”

"You need to be yourself, Dean. You can't change simply because you think this is what I want."

“I want you to be comfortable around me. Damn, it's been ten years since we were even in the same bed together. I joke a lot, when I'm playing around, but I joke also when I'm afraid. I'm not gonna push you, but I will joke. If the joking is offensive, I won't do it. I just need to know what won't push you away. I like having you here with me.”

"And I like being with you, Dean." She ruffled his hair. "Just give it time."

“Lisa, I'm not asking for it. I do want it. You're beautiful and I love you, but I can wait. Sometimes, you turn me on even when you're not trying. I joke because it's a way of release of pent up emotions and needs. I just need to know if the jokes bother you.”

"And I'll tell you if something bugs me. I promise," she said seriously.

“Then, it was teasing when you called me a pervert? I hate to tell you this, but I am one.”

Lisa giggled. "I hate to tell you this...but I knew that."

Dean smiled again, “How long have you known that?”

She gave another giggle. "Since I've known you."

“Is that why I got to stay the whole weekend? You were the most incredible woman I'd ever been with. I never forgot you. When I met you again, I fell in love with you. “

Her fingers ruffled his hair. "Despite being a pervert, you're a gentle person who cares so much for the people around you."

He pulled her head down toward him, his lips gently caressing hers. He leaned his forehead against hers and sighed. “I love you, Lisa.”

"I love you too, Dean," she said, kissing him back.

“You may think is is crazy, but I have a question about Ben's birthday party last year.”

"What's that?"

“The women who were there...your friends? They acted like they knew me. I swear one of them said that's Dean. Someone said who? They said Dean. Someone else said the Dean? What have you told them? They were looking me up and down like guys do a really hot girl. They started whispering, giggling, and watching me closely.”

She blushed. "Yeah..they were good friends of mine and I did talk about you."

“Damn, you would think they thought I was a stud or was a sex......toy? Lisa? What did you tell them?”

"That you were a kind and giving lover..most of them had experiences that weren't as wonderful as mine. I did tell them that it was incredible. You were, Dean."

“I'm glad that's all, because we had the wildest weekend I'd ever experienced in my life. Nothing has ever compared to it. My entire life was waiting for that time with you and remembering afterward. I've had one nighters, Lisa, after you, but only to hide the pain I go through. To forget things. I didn't think I could ever have this. I wanted you to know that you've been the only one I have ever loved this deeply.”

She smiled, pressing a kiss to his lips before resuming work on his back. "Well, you do now."

“Promise me that if you ever want to know things about me, you'll just ask? I've told Ryuuzaki I wouldn't lie or keep things from those I love ever again. If you feel you can't ask, then go to Sam or Bobby. They both know pretty much everything there is know about me. I'd still rather you feel you can come to me. Okay?”

"As long as you do the same..either about me or Ben or if you simply need someone to talk to.”

“I will. Wanna play twenty questions about each other?” Dean thought that he must have lost mind doing that, but he wanted everything open between them. Let things come as they come.

"All right, if you feel comfortable with that."

“Lisa, I'd rather hide it all, but I can't do that to us. I've had nightmares in my life, and you have the right know those things. There may be discomfort for both of us. I hope not, but you're marrying me. It's your right to know.”

She smiled sweetly. "That sounds good. You want to start?"

“When did you decide you were in love with me?”

"By Saturday afternoon," she said with a grin. "You surprised me with that wonderful lunch, remember?"

“Yeah, I grilled steaks, made baked potatoes, and sauteed asparagus from a recipe you had in a cookbook. I remember sitting on the floor in your studio, both of us barely dressed, drinking wine and eating that meal.”

"You showed that you cared, had such a romantic streak in you.”

“Yeah, but I was always so stupid, pure testosterone all the time. I never thought of that as romantic. Never thought I was. It just seemed the right thing to do. I always hid behind the macho, to keep from getting hurt, and I have been, but it was after you. She ended up doing it to me twice.”

I saw her again after she hurt me the first time. The spark was still there, but she told me she wanted no part of me, that I'd get her killed. When I saw you again, I chased you away, because I was afraid Cassie was right, but I'd fallen in love with you. When you told me Ben wasn't mine, it hurt. I wanted him. I wanted something from us."

"Cassie was afraid, Dean. I think she's afraid of commitment, of what it would mean to be with someone as strong as you are. Some women are intimidated by strength like yours."

“I think that sex with her was more of a control issue. With you, it was passionate, wild, and we both shared in it. I loved that.I'll tell you a secret. That day I came back, I wanted to have that again. Something bad was about to happen, and I wanted that one good memory. It was better that we didn't get to. There was Ben. Without it, I learned you, and I loved you.”

"I'm glad. I wanted you to see him but had no means of contacting you at all," she murmured, hands massaging his back still.

“I wasn't ready for that until then. I wish I had been though. There were too many family problems. My whole life has been family problems. I'm so glad to finally have you and Ben.”

“You're turn.”

Lisa was thinking for a moment. "Have you given thought as to having more children in the future?"

“Oh yeah. I'd have as many as you will let me have. I've missed everything about raising Ben. I never got feed him, change a diaper, take him for a walk in a stroller, get his first hair cut, walking the floor with him when he's not feeling well and won't stop crying, cutting his first tooth, losing his first tooth, and I never got to hand out cigars and tell everyone at the hospital that he was mine. I never saw his first steps, or took off work to see his first day at school. I've never met his teachers, or helped with little league. Yeah, I want kids.”

She smiled at that, feeling happy. "Then we'll get that chance." Dean nodded and smiled at her.

“My question?”

"Yup," Lisa said.

“This is a hard one. When you found out you were pregnant, what did you feel?”

"Happy," she said with a smile. "I loved the idea of bringing new life into the world. I was a bit scared too."

“Were you angry at me at all for leaving you in that fix? Ben had no father. You were in it all alone.”

"No, I wasn't angry. It's not as if we knew it would happen. I had a feeling that if you did know, you'd be there."

“Yeah, it might have been difficult, but I'd have been there.”

"I know. My question?"

“Yeah, it is.”

"Your dream..the designing of cars..how long have you wanted this?"

“I saw a guy driving one of those small hybrid things I think. I knew he could afford to drive it just fine, but then he looked at my baby. There was such a look of envy on his face. I realized that big cars are a status symbol for men, and some women. I couldn't understand why a car and an engine couldn't be designed that would be fuel efficient. I knew it could be done. That was my dream. Not real long ago. I've changed, you know?”

"You have, and I admire the ideas you have. A lot of people drive tiny cars, which can't be safe, and it's sad because the bigger ones do look nicer."

“I wouldn't trade my baby for the world. Everyone should be able to own something like her...big, beautiful, but inexpensive. I've studied some about bio-fuels. They are experimenting with one right now that would be perfect if it works.”

"Did you say Bobby owned and ran a junkyard?"

“Yeah, in South Dakota, but I'm not moving up there. I've got a place....well, I will. Sam and I. It's in west Texas. Dean named the town where they would be near...the town Lisa had lived in. Dean knewthis. “I was working a murder case there. There was this cabin up in mountains. Ryuuzaki said L bought with me in mind. Sam and I plan on major addons for all of us to have the place.”

"Well, you could look at the cars there and get ideas from styles that you knew were popular when introduced and are very classy," she suggested.

“Yeah, but I have to think of aerodynamics too. I will get up there and look around.”

She smiled. "I think you can come up with a lot. Ben has a lot of interest in mechanics and sciences, so you'll have a helper."

Dean's eyes lit up at the piece of information about his son. He looked excited. “That's fantastic. I'll help him learn whatever he wants to learn.”

“My question.”

"Go for it."

“What's your best memory and your worst memory in your life?”

"Best memory is when Ben was born. I think the worst was getting stalked like that and no idea how to find you. I hated having to pull him away from his friends." She looked a little scared.

“I tried to keep an eye on you but it was hard sometimes. I didn't know about the stalker, but I knew knew you'd moved. I hunted everywhere for you. Your family cussed me out...said it was my fault you'd disappeared. I didn't know they knew about me. I was scared about you. I finally told Ryuuzaki and he told me where you were.”

"He works for the top detective in the world, I'm told."

“He wouldn't let me contact you or get you. It was killing me inside. I didn't know what name you were using and I was scared you were still being stalked. I'd never felt so helpless in my life.”

"I wonder why."

“He's not very emotional...never been in love. Doesn't understand it. Thought you'd be in the way of me finishing this hunt for Lilith. Her death is the beginning of my life.”

"Well, in a way, I can understand his concerns. We can be a distraction at times."

“No, hon. You're my reason for winning this...a life with you.”

She patted his back. "Thanks, baby."

“You're welcome, hon. Your question?”

"Hmmm....let's see. The silliest thing you've ever done."

“In my right mind?”

"You mean there were things done not in your right mind?"

“Ummm....yeeaah.”

'How about both."

“Silly as in funny...or just plain the dumbest thing I've ever done?”

She giggled. "How about both on that?"

“Lisa, some of this might be funny and light hearted, but some of it won't be. Okay?”

"Okay, sweetie."

“The silliest thing I did in my right mind was agree to have a murder confession recorded. I told them what I liked to do on a date, my sign, all kinds of crap. The silliest thing I did not in my right mind was scream bloody murder in terror at a cat in a locker. I had ghost fever. It makes you afraid of everything.”

She gave a soft laugh. "What is it with you and cats?"

“I don't know, but I won't own one. The dumbest things. I'd rather do one at a time because you're gonna be asking all kinds of things after you freak out.”

"Okay," she giggled. "You know, Ben's been asking for a pet."

“Dogs. Lots of dogs. We'll rescue them from a shelter.”

Dean was quiet for a minute and seemed to shake a little. Lisa grew still, realizing he was no longer joking with her.

“Lisa, you won't be laughing or giggling at these, and I'm sorry. You wanted dumb. These two messed me up big time. Afterwards, I'll give you one more silly thing. Okay?”

She rubbed his hair, trying to calm him down.

“I'll call this one the dumb thing when I was in my right mind. I sold my soul to raise Sam from the dead. I ended up in hell.”

Lisa froze at that, simply listening.

“You don't want to yell at me? Everyone else has, except Watari and Ryuuzaki.”

"Did you feel it was the right thing to do at the time, even if you look back on it and regret it now?"

“Yeah, I couldn't live without him. The demon who brought this on asked me if I was sure if what I brought back was all Sam. Sometimes, I'm not sure, but I hope so. One month in hell is ten years, Lisa. It was my worst nightmare. They broke me, and I came down off the rack and I did the same thing they did and I liked it. Getting to give back what I'd been suffering. It felt good. Ryuuzaki said I'm human. He said I wasn't like the rest of them. I did not lose my humanity. Damn. I'm sorry, Lisa. I'm not that strong a guy.”

She gently tapped the back of his head. "Love, you're human. Humans break. You are the strongest person I know."

“You really believe that? You don't think worse of me?”

"No, love, I don't think the worst of you."

“Thank you. Lisa, the other one...I only talked about it once. The other two times, Bobby and Sam saw it on a video. You're the only other person I will tell this to face to face. It's hard. Okay?”

"You know I'm here to listen. If it's too hard, Dean, we can talk about it when you're ready."

“No, you're gonna be my wife....closer to me then Sam and Bobby. Ryuuzaki said family needs to know and understand. Okay? I think I went absolutely crazy from fear and panic. I didn't know what to do. My only thought was do what they asked and protect Sammy and not let anybody know.”

Lisa shifted their position so his head was in her lap, fingers carding through his hair to comfort him.

“I was fifteen, I think. It's such a mess in my mind. Dad was supposed to leave for a few weeks but he stayed gone a long time. I was told we were to stay put. We were facing eviction. There was no food. Sam needed things for school, and with winter coming, he needed warmer clothes. I went to a pool hall and played for four hours and I earned fifteen hundred dollars. That would keep us til Dad got back. I didn't think I needed to call Bobby or Pastor Jim. I could do this.”

She listened, keeping the touch comforting and soothing.

“It was dark and I walking as fast as I could because it was a bad neighborhood. Dad never really put us in good ones very often. He said he couldn't afford to do that. Someone grabbed me from behind. I reached for a knife but he had my other arm behind me and almost broke it. He yelled for help and there were others. I recognized a voice. It was the guys I played pool with. I offered the money back, but they told me I had to earn it. I told them I'd beat them in a fair game. They pushed me to my knees. They made me give all of them....I took them in my mouth. It was a form of rape, but all I could think of was Sam. Getting home to him and keeping that money.”

"Oh baby," she murmured softly.

“They told me they were there this same night every week, and I was to come back and play pool and they'd let me win. I was take care of them in the restroom afterward. They threatened Sam, so I did it week after f'ing week. Dad didn't come and take us away. I wanted to call Bobby or Pastor Jim, but I'd have to tell them what I was doing to earn the money. I used the money, Lisa. I couldn't tell them I was whoring.

"Dean, this wasn't your fault, you know that right?"

“I know. Everyone has told me that, and I'm working on it. I wanted Dad to come and save me from the nightmare. Finally, he showed up after I had gone to the pool hall. He showed up looking for me and he was pissed that I'd left Sam alone. Sam told him I'd been earning the money some how. He told him I'd come home crying each night I disappeared. Dad thought the worse and he was right.”

"He was so wrong to leave you in that position and got angry for the wrong reason, love."

“I know, hon. That night they were tired of losing to me and they thought I owed them more. They dragged me upstairs, and they …..they hurt me real bad. Dad showed up, and I was so glad to see him. I thought he'd kill every single one of them for hurting me. He opened the door and they were already through. I was bleeding pretty bad and they'd beat me too. I was on the bed and it was covered with …..it was covered. They were throwing a hundred dollars each on the bed because I'd never done it before and that seemed special to them. Dad called me a whore, he grabbed my clothes and stuff, and he walked away and left me there.”

She growled. "That asshole."

“It was cold that night, and I walked barefoot in a blanket back to the motel. I picked the lock with a hairpin I found on the ground. There was no food, no money, no Dad, and no Sam. They'd gone and taken everything with them. I had no clothes or anything. I crawled onto my bed, covered myself in the blanket, and I waited....for a week. I thought about killing myself, but there was Sammy and I took care of him. I couldn't leave him to Dad.”

Her eyes were full of anger and tears.

“Dad came back without Sam. He called me a lot of bad names, He took his belt off and he beat me real bad. Some of my bruises were almost gone, but he gave me a lot more. He got a brush and dish soap, he used it to clean my mouth and my …..the rest of me. I bled worse then when they took me. He threw some tennis shoes and clothes at me and said come on. He didn't feed me. We drove for three days to Bobby's. He thought I'd been hurt in a hunt. I couldn't tell him. I thought he'd think the same thing as Dad. He started training Sam and told me to have his back because it was my fault he was hunting.”

"I can't believe he would do something like this," she told him. "if he wasn't gone, I'd beat the hell out of him."

“He had me by the balls, Lisa. I couldn't quit or he'd tell Sam, Bobby, and Pastor Jim. I had no one I could tell the truth to. My mind was so messed up during that. I should have called Bobby or Pastor Jim, but I was fifteen, and I was scared. I think that's why I sold my soul to save Sam. It screwed me royal, but it was important to me that I do something right. That I not fail. It meant something to me. If Sam died, then I'd failed and what I went through was for nothing.”

"Dean, look at me."

The hazel eyes looking into angry brown ones.

"You did nothing wrong outside of not telling Bobby or Pastor Jim. You did what you had to do to protect your brother.Your father should not have laid that burden on your shoulders, you were too young for that. All of this was his responsibility." She caressed his face.

“Lisa, I've had that burden since I was four years old. I know all that you are saying is true. I honestly do because everyone has told me that. I believe it in my mind. I'm trying to reach my heart with it. I have a mantra I say all the time. I'm not a whore, It's not my fault, and I am worthy. I figure that one of these days, it'll make sense and I'll really believe it. I just wanted you to know that I've told you more then the others know. I could talk easier to you.”

"You're not a whore and you are very worthy," she said, eyes gentle.

“It means more coming from you. Thank you. Dean turned on his side and wrapped an arm around her waist, holding her tightly. “I love you, Lisa. Thank you for loving me.”

"I love you too, Dean."

“I know and I am eternally grateful. You'll never know how much because I don't know how to tell you, but you have all of me, heart and soul.”

She caressed his face. "And I will treasure it very much, Dean."

The hunter turned back over and an awe filled face stared up at her. “No one's ever told me that before. I've always hidden things inside. Ryuuzaki and Watari have dug a lot of them out of me. It's been hard, but it's been worth it just to hear those words. Thank you.”

"Welcome sweetie," she leaned down and kissed him. His lips met hers, his tongue barely touching her lips in a gentle caress. He pulled her bottom lip into his mouth and nipped it softly, barely sucking it. She could feel his breath on her face as he his mouth worshiped hers. She realized that Dean had learned a lot of things in the years they'd been apart. She trembled slightly, wondering what else he'd learned.

When the kiss ended, she stroked his face with a soft smile.

“I think I've had enough of twenty questions for one night. But I promised one more silly. I can't hold a tune at all. Sammy is worse. We were looking for an evil Santa. We thought we'd found him and followed him to his trailer. We heard noises that didn't sound good so we broke through his front door. He was drunk and watching something on TV. He stared at us and we started singing Silent Night, badly off key and he started laughing and singing it with us. The things we have to do.”

She giggled at that. "Ben is that way too."

Lisa saw the smile go back to Dean's eyes. “Let's get some sleep. I hope he's over all the nausea and sugar rush before he joins us.” He grabbed her and pulled her down next to him.

She laughed and cuddled into him. "I'm hoping he'll torment the others."

“Well, you know what they say, hon...one man's kid is another man's poison.” Dean cuddle her closed and started to drift back off to sleep.

Another laugh came from her before she drifted to sleep as well

A Supernatural Christmas Carol Chapter 14

Authors: Lady Laran and Tisha Wyman Warnings: Bad language and violence. Spoilers: Season Five - so if you’ve not seen it, be warned a few things are a bit weird.Disclaimer - We do not own Supernatural nor A Christmas Carol. The show is owned by Eric Kripke and the book is by Charles Dickens. Neither of us has rights to this nor have we earned anything by doing this. We’re just doing this for fun. Oh..we also don’t own Christmas at Ground Zero or any other carols that might be mentioned. This is a story of healing, family, humor, and horror. Sounds like a typical Thursday night on the CW. (Of course, the CW has gone bonkers and moved them to Fridays, now. We shall see.)

Redemption



Bobby asked Cas what had happened, trying to see what was going on. He looked at the empty room and turned to see Ben and Sam watching the angel. Bobby wheeled over to Sam.

"You okay, Sam? Dean asked you and you didn't answer him. That's gonna worry him."

"Trying to hold onto my temper, honestly."

"Well, deal with, Sam. If you're mad at him, tell him. It will take the necromancer a little time to get here. Deal with him. Do it now."

Dean was sitting in his chair listening to the flute music and waiting on the necromancer. The door flew open and Sam stormed in. Dean looked at him curiously, wondering what the hell had happened.

"You told me that you would work on the heroic big brother complex you had."

Dean sat up. "What?"

Angry, Sam repeated what he'd said.

"I don't know what the hell you're talking about, Sammy."

"Putting me to bed and going to face the last ghost on your own..without me."

"Oh."

"Is that all you have to say? Oh?"

"Sammy, you were exhausted from what you went through emotionally. I gave you a shot of whiskey to calm you down. You and alcohol don't get along very well and you know it. You went into a deep sleep. There was no way in hell you could have had my back at that time. I put you to bed."

It was hard to hold onto his anger when faced with that. "You could've tried. I wanted to be with you for the last one."

"Sammy, I wanted you there. Putting you to bed was not an easy choice. I thought I'd be going it alone. Bobby went with Ben. Cas came with me. Not what I wanted, but it was necessary. Sammy most of this crap was aimed at Ben and me. The necromancer wanted you out of the way. You were blindsided. I'm sorry."

He gave a soft sigh. "I am too. I shouldn't have lost my cool. I just...I wanted to be there for all of it."

"I know you did. More of this affected you then you know. Our childhood may have been harder on me because I was older and had the responsibilities, but it hurt you too. Being reminded isn't easy. Dad was hell. But you knew deep down that most of it was at me. You thought you were having my back. When he came at you, you weren't ready. I wasn't when we went into the past the first time. I never expected that. You didn't either. If it hadn't been for Pam, I would never have made it through that night. Her just talking and doing nothing gave me time to get my wits back under control. You didn't have that, man. I just thought about what you would say to this guy. I said it, plus a little of my own. Never was much of a talker, serious talk. Cas releasing him for a short while, let him think clearly. I was able to talk to him. It worked, Sammy. In a way, you were there."

Sam gave him a gentle smile. "I'm proud of you."

Dean looked confused. "Why?"

"You didn't take the easy way out...you remembered that even in the darkness, it's possible to save a life."

"To be honest, Sammy, I wanted to. But, I thought about what you said. I looked at the guy. Damn it, he reminded me of me. He was hurting, couldn't talk to anyone, and he needed somebody...anybody. You were there, Sammy. It was you talking. Not me. I did nothing to be proud of."

The taller one gave into the urge and had a chick flick moment by hugging Dean tightly. His brother froze for a second, then reached out and grabbed his brother in a bear hug.

"I'm glad...really glad."

Dean sniffed. "Me too, Sammy. Me too."

He pressed a tissue into Dean's hand. "Let's make something to drink for everyone. I think we'll need it once the guy gets here and Cas does his ritual."

"Yeah, and food too. The guy looked hungry. We'll feed him once it's over And Sammy?"

"Yeah?"

"Thanks, dude."

He laughed. "No problem. Let's get to scrounging and see. The guy should be here soon."

"Yeah, I want you to meet him cause you were heavily involved."

"I'd like that."

I think he would too. You might just make a friend outside the hunting community with this one. I know I'd like to, and he will need them."

"No kidding. I mean, can you imagine having a curse before you were born to damage your thoughts like that?"

"No, I can't, but you kinda came close, Sammy. You can help him. You've sorta been there."

True, Sam hadn't thought of that at all. "I can try."

"Well, he needs a friend who can understand. I can to a point, but it wasn't me, Sam. It was you. I never thought of it as a curse before, but it was."

He nodded quietly. "Yeah..it was."

“And, like it or not, it was generational. Mom caused it by her deal to save Dad. Damn, we're bad about that....making deals to raise people from the dead or dying."

"They did say we Winchesters had a nasty habit of it."

"Yeah, well, no more of it."

A knock on the door, brought the conversation to a halt. Dean went to the door and let the young man in.

Dean held out his hand, "Hi, I'm Dean Winchester, in the flesh this time. This is my brother, Sam. I never did get your name?"

The blond had taken off the robes and was wearing a simple pair of blue jeans and a light blue sweater. His hair was longer than what had been seen prior, down to mid-back and tied back with a leather thong. "I'm Jacob Davidson. It's nice to meet you both, finally." He shook both of their hands.

"Well, they are ready for you. Then I thought you might need some food and drink afterwards. We'll have it ready. But, first, let's take you the room, Cas has ready to help you."

Dean nodded at Sam as he had not been to the room. Jacob and Dean followed.

Thank you," Jacob murmured as they headed to the room.

"Hey, you're welcome. You're hanging with a strange group of people, I'll warn you." Dean laughed as he touched Jacob's arm softly. "But we're easy to know and be friends with."

"I grew up with ghosts and the like; I don't think it can get stranger than that," he answered with a slight smile.

Castiel definitely had things ready, judging from the bemused looks on Bobby and Ben's faces.

"Hey, guys, this is Jacob. This is Cas and Bobby. Ben, you know."

The three greeted him and Jacob acknowledged them, giving a soft smile and greeting.

"Well, Cas, what do you need from us?"

Jacob's eyes looked over what the angel had set up, recognizing the symbols. Castiel had created a circle of salt and written ancient symbols inside of the circle with chalk. At each 'corner' sat a piece of iron and silver. "Very old magicks you've set up."

The angel nodded. "Indeed. Dean, I will need you, Sam, Bobby, and Ben to stand outside the circle where each of the items are. You're going to represent the 'corners.'"

The men each went to a spot where the iron and silver lay. Dean watched Jacob and Cas, then stared at each one making up a corner. Bobby and Sam both showed curiosity at the setup. Ben was watching Jacob.

He met Ben's eyes and bowed his head. "I'm sorry."

Ben reached out but did not touch, not knowing if it was allowed. "I am sorry too. It would seem I had a rotten ancestor. When this is over, I'd like to talk to you, if you wouldn't mind?"

"I would like that very much..but before that, there is something I will have to do. Castiel, are we ready?"

The angel nodded. "Stand in the center and do not move. This will be painful, I'm sorry."

Jacob nodded as well. "I understand. A curse of this magnitude will be hard to remove."

"What can we expect, Cas? I don't want any of us unprepared."

"For the four of you, nothing. You are the grounders. Just lend your thoughts and hopes towards the removal of the evil in his blood."

Dean nodded and watched Jacob stand in the middle of the circle of salt. It was a heavy salt. Dean looked at the symbols. Very few were familiar. He wondered if Sam or Bobby knew them. Collecting his thoughts, he began to concentrate on the man in the circle and on Cas.

Castiel began chanting in a language that was definitely ancient, even Sam couldn't recognize it. It had to be a precursor to another language. He'd have to ask him later.

A light mist arose. The room was dry. There was no humidity in it, which surprised Dean. They were in Galveston still, weren't they? The mist should not arise in such a dry room. It caressed Jacob's face and reached out to the four men who made the corners. Dean felt a dry tendril caress his face. It had no temperature to it, but Dean still felt himself tremble.

The sigils drawn on the floor began to glow with power as the mist grew thicker, the ritual and spell beginning to grow in power with it.

Dean focused to keep his mind on Jacob and the removal of the blood curse. He didn't realize that it would be difficult. It felt as if voices were calling to him. He struggled but kept his mind focused. Cas did not mention this.

Jacob gave a cry of pain as the mist began to surround him, almost as if he was enshrouded in a cocoon of it.

Dean bit his bottom lip and kept his mind focused on Jacob.

Time passed as Castiel continued chanting, the sigils glowing in odd patterns as the mist continued to surround the blond.

It felt like hours. Dean wanted to look at the others. Were they struggling against the voices? He didn't look. He kept focused on Jacob, but it was getting harder.

Finally, there was an explosion of light and a harsh cry from Jacob before everything settled. The necromancer was on his hands and knees, shaking hard.

Dean wanted to go to him but he did not cross the barrier.

"It's safe to move now," the angel commented hoarsely, looking for something to lean against.
Sam jumped the salt circle and went to Jacob. Dean was about to follow when he looked at the angel. He went to Cas. "Here, lean on me." The older Winchester stood next to him and held him up.

"He okay, Sammy?"

"Yeah, looks exhausted. Nothing some food won't help with." He helped Jacob off of the floor, allowing him to lean against him.

Well, there's leftover Chinese and barbecue in the dining area. I got plenty to drink and some of that gingerbread, Bobby bought Sammy.

"Jacob, you shouldn't be going home right now. We'll fix you up."

The blond nodded, watching as Castiel leaned against Dean.

Ben slowly walked over to Jacob. "I'd like you to come home with me, this evening. My nephews are visiting relatives. I'd like to offer you a home here. I'd train you to be assistant manager. If you like the place, I'll work something so you can own it. Someday, I want to move back home to England and let the boys meet family there. That's if you like Galveston and would like to own a B&B one day? No need to answer right now, but your home is here. Tomorrow, we'll get your things."

"I hadn't thought. I had thought of leaving Galveston all together. Too many bad memories."

"I understand that. It's why I want to rid myself of the place when I am ready.

Dean looked at Sam and Bobby, a question in his eyes.

Bobby nodded. The boy needed help and Bobby could do that until he'd healed enough to go on his own.

"Jacob, I know you are probably going to stay with Ben through Christmas, but we'd like you to come to Bobby's place, 'til you are healed and ready to go out on your own."

Ben reached for Jacob. "Come, I will fix you up for the night. We can discuss things more after Christmas, which I hope you will spend with me. The Winchesters have been very kind in doing this for us. Bobby, you guys are welcome to stay longer if you'd like. No point in leaving the day after Christmas. I have plenty of room."

Bobby smiled. "Thanks. Feed the kid before he passes out, ok? Dean, let's get Cas fed and see if he can't recharge."

Ben smiled. "I know you have food ready, but tomorrow's Christmas Eve. I will feed Jacob and after he's rested, he and I may go shopping to get him some things for colder weather. I believe you said you lived in the Dakotas?"

"Yep, I do. It does get cold up there, that's for sure."

Jacob's voice was quiet. "I'll need to clear up my apartment too."

"We can help if you want."

"I'd appreciate that. I have more books than anything else." Most inherited.

Bobby's and Sam's eyes lit up. Dean, looking them, knew exactly what they were thinking, and smirked.

Castiel gave a tired chuckle as well. Jacob, who spotted the looks, smiled. "Some will have to be locked away. Given their age, I can't just destroy them."

"Oh Bobby has a lot of space to lock them away and protect them. I know he and Sam would read them too."

He nodded. "All right."

"Why don't we get these two fed and rested up. They both look exhausted."

Ben thanked everyone and helped Jacob to his feet, and walked him towards his own apartments in the B&B.

Dean helped Cas to their suite. They all sat down to eat the leftovers. Dean gave Cas a shot of whiskey. "Don't argue, Cas. You've drunk before. This will help you sleep."

The angel really was too tired to argue. He downed the shot of whisky and nibbled a bit at the left overs.

Dean looked over at Sam. "I'm gonna help him get to bed. "You guys want to plan today? I'll be back in a bit."

Bobby and Sam nodded. "Sounds good, Dean. Cas, sleep well."

"Thank you, Bobby, Sam." The angel sounded hoarse and exhausted.

"Thank you."

Castiel went with Dean into the bedroom, wearily changing into the obnoxious pajamas Dean had bought for all of them.

Dean helped Cas get into bed. "Now you sleep in and get the rest you need, okay?"

"I will. Thank you."

"You're welcome, Cas."

Dean walked back into the dining area and sat down. He took a long swig of the beer by his plate, and ate a little of the potato salad.

"You'd think I'd be more hungry, but I'm not. Well, what are doing today? I'm assuming we're still doing?"

Bobby smiled. "Once Cas wakes, we're going to the movies. He's never been, and I think it'd be a great relaxing time."

"Man, that would be awesome! I haven't been to a movie since..well, since before hell. Sam has though. What's out right now and would be good to see?"

Sam dragged out his trusty laptop with a grin.

Dean grinned back. He started picking up the plates and heading to the kitchen to wash them.

"Dean, leave those a minute and come and choose."

Dean walked back into the diningroom,wiping his hands with a towel.

He angled his computer so Dean could take a look at what was showing.

"I don't know what any of these are, Sammy, Haven't had much time to read up on movies."

"The only Christmas one is one I definitely don't want to see," he said with a grimace.

"Which one is that?"

"A Christmas Carol."

Dean started laughing hard. He sat down in his chair, his head on the table, holding his sides. It was almost an hysterical laugh but he couldn't stop.

The other two joined in moments later, letting the stress of everything blow away.

Dean finally leaned back in his chair, tears on his face. He was still chuckling but had calmed down. "There any good sci-fi or a western or war movie for Bobby?"

Bobby grinned, looking over Sam's shoulder. "Let's see the Sherlock Holmes one."

"Sherlock Holmes? They still make movies about him?" Sam at first thought Dean had no interest but he looked up and saw that Dean's expression was more like a kid's. He actually wanted to see Sherlock Holmes? Then he remembered their conversations from the last few days, and Dean's comments over the years. "Hey, I read." Sam smiled.

"Let's do it." Sam purchased tickets online. "We'll have time to rest a bit, have brunch and go for some fun."

Dean grinned and headed back to the kitchen. Bobby started wheeling things to him. Sam could hear the other Winchester softly singing Silent Night along with the flute music he had put on again.

His brother still couldn't sing but Sam never complained, enjoying the sound of a happy Dean.

The kitchen cleaned, Dean started a big fire. He took his boots off and stretched out on his chair, within minutes, he was gone. Bobby sat watching him when Sam came into the room. Bobby looked up at Sam.

"I don't have the heart to wake him but he won't get a good rest there."

Sam lifted him, grunting slightly as he shifted the weight and carried him to the room Dean shared with Bobby. He had his brother on his bed and covered, the other never waking.

Bobby was sitting in the living area staring at the fire, when Sam came back out. He smiled. "I swear, Sam, that boy can fall asleep faster then anyone I've ever seen. He can sleep anywhere. Does he ever get enough sleep? Do you?"

"We try but motel beds aren't always comfortable."

"Don't try to fool me, Sam. How many hours a night do you guys get? Three? Four, maybe? I know after a case, you might. But how many nights a week do you get at least six?"

Sam settled on the couch. "Not many."

"That can lead to mistakes, Sam. Sooner or later, one or both of you is going to be too tired. Someone's gonna get killed. You need to get at least six hours. You need more but you can live on six."

"It's not for the lack of trying, Bobby. This life..it's murder on us due to stress. Michael after him, Lucifer after me. It's insane."

"I know, boy. I want this over as bad you two do. I want my family home where I can take of you. You need a wife and kids, Sam. Come to think of it, I think Dean would love that, but he won't admit to it. That's not very macho for him. I've seen him with kids. He needs at least a half dozen of them. I don't know if you could handle that many (laughing softly), but he could. What you need is a beautiful, loving wife and 2.5 kids. You know there's room in the house for families. That place is a lot bigger then you think. I got rooms that aren't even open. If not, there's room to build houses there. I just want you guys home, married, and a bunch a kids. Book keeping may work for you, but I think you might look back into school. If you don't want prelaw, think about business. We'll need someone to run the shop the correct way and bring in the business. You could do that. Dean just needs to use those hands. He's gifted. You got the ability to do things with your mind. Dean's hands can do a lot of things. I'm not knocking his mind either. We know there’s more in there then we think. He don't show it though. Think on it. I think there's maybe at least one woman in his past who's still alive and he thinks about. We need to arrange something. I know about one in yours. Don't get mad. Dean talked about her."

Sam gave a soft flush. "She's perfect in a lot of ways. I'm still in contact with her. She's not found anyone either." He leaned his head back against the pillows. "I told Dean I'd take some business and accounting courses online to help with the office work of the business while you, Dean, and probably Cas kept your hands dirty. That's if Cas hasn't found his niche yet." That's if he survived this.

"What is she like, Sam?"

"She's an artist, loves to read, is willing to sit back with a bottle of beer and just chat despite being from such a ritzy background. You know, she wanted to come with us when we left. I just..I'd lost Jess and was afraid of putting her in danger too."

"Dean was right then."

"Right?"

"He told me you should have married her. She was perfect for you."

Sam gave a soft laugh. "He definitely thought so. She was pretty incredible, I have to admit. Our first date, she tossed out the wine list and ordered a beer.”

"He told me this today."

"I want you to meet her. If I survive this, I'll definitely have her come and visit."

"I don't know how this is gonna end, Sam, but I got a gut feeling that when it's all said and done, you three are coming home. I do want to meet her. Very much."

"I hope so, Bobby, because I'm scare shitless this time."

"I'll tell you something, son. If the time comes when you aren't afraid, get out right then. It's normal to be terrified when facing something like this. I can guarantee you that Dean's scared spitless. He won't say it, but he is. When he went into the future, he saw things he intends to prevent. I believe the four of us will survive it."

His eyes closed. "The colt didn't work."

"I know. You know what? Cas may be right. It may take God. I know Dean laughs and mocks the idea, but I don't think he is as much a doubter as he used to be. It's just easier to talk then to trust and let go. He can't do that very well."

"It's strange..he's the one believing more and I'm the one who keeps pulling away on that."

"You boys have been through hell and back. You still believe, Sam. You never let go. You got mixed up in things you thought were right, but addiction is addiction. It messes with the mind. Loyalties, thought processes, your feelings,...Sam, they all get screwed to hell when that happens. You are a hundred percent better than you were the night you killed Lilith. When did Dean tell you he broke the first seal? Cas told me Dean mentioned it."

"After we settled things and started hunting again."

"Were you okay with it? I'm not sure Dean is totally okay with it. He's taken to heart that he has to stop what he started. Cas told him he would do it."

"Seems kinda karmic that the Winchester brothers were the ones to start it." He leaned back. "And as far as God is concerned, Bobby, I'll believe it when I see it. I spent all that time praying..and for what..a shit load of stress and responsibility that should never have been ours to deal with."

"But you did deal with it, Sam. You've both done a good job with it. You are right, it shouldn't have had to be you two. There should not have been all the loss, the pain, the heartache, but it was and you can't change that. Don't let it change who you are and who you were You're good boys, both of you. Get through this, Sam. Marry Sarah. Have those kids . Live a normal life. You'll find you haven't lost that faith. You misplaced it for a while."

Changing the subject, and trying to put a smile back n Sam's face, Bobby asked him, "Who is Lisa Braeden?"

Sam burst out into laughter. "Oh man, she's got a kid and I swear he's Dean's. Mullet rock, hairstyle, everything."

Bobby's mouth dropped and his eyes widened.

Sam told him everything he knew about the woman and her son.

Bobby sighed. "I was straightening up the room yesterday. Don't remember where you guys were. Dean's duffel fell over. A large envelope fell out and some stuff in it scattered on the floor. There was a photo of a dark haired woman and a young boy. There was a journal in it. I probably shouldn't have but I looked at it. He's keeping track of her and the boy. Everything they do. Now, I know you thought Dean might have loved Jo. Maybe he did, but he is really deep into this. Just thought you might want to know. If it were just the boy, I'd understand. But he knows a lot about her too. He's got some detective hired to keep an eye on them."

"I had no idea Dean had done that."

"Yeah, now could he have feelings for a one weekend stand?"

"Dean usually doesn't remember flings as much as he did her."

"Hmmmm. Maybe we need to keep an on her and the boy. Protect them. If the enemy finds out he has an interest. You and I both know that the demons want him dead and they will use anything to get him. The angels would use them to force him to give in to Michael."

Sam looked thoughtful for a moment, then mentioned the idea that had sprung to mind.

"I could ask Sarah to check in on them. Maybe even send her some of Dean's hair to see if Ben is his or not."

"You know, I believe the woman knows whether he his or not. She is not gonna tell him because she doesn't want Ben getting involved with a father who can't or won't be there for him or for her. Dean knows that. It would be nice if Sarah can find some way to get to know them. Keep an eye on them."

"I wanted to email her anyway, so I'll bring it up when I do and include her address in it."

"That would be good. Dean should have the right to know his son, but he's right in not pursuing it. I know he wants to. If you can find a way, read that journal. I had no idea he wrote anything down like John did. From what John told me, Dean seems to write more like his mother. She kept journals. There is other stuff in the journal, but a lot of it is about them. A lot about us too. He never wanted you two to separate by the way."

"I wasn't ready back then, and Sarah understood. She's been a strong support...damn, did she read me a riot act about Ruby and my fuck up." He rubbed his forehead, remembering the heated lecture he‘d been given when he‘d come clean to her about his actions.

"If she stayed by you after that, you got a good woman. You are blessed in that, Sam. Don't toss her away. Don't wait too long. "

"I get the damned devil off of my back, I won't."

"Good. Loneliness is hell, boy. I know."

Sam nodded.

"The older you get, you'll find you need the companionship of a good woman. I know there's been a couple in Dean's life that he's loved. Not many, I would imagine, but when he was younger. This Lisa would have been one of them. He mentions a Cassie in passing. I gather there was something there but she backed down. He says he doesn't blame her anymore."

"The one that seemed to understand him the most...it wouldn't have worked out." Which was a pity cause he really liked her.

"What was she like?"

"No..not Cassie. I was thinking of Anna."

"Who the hell is Anna? He never mentioned her. If she was the one, why leave her out?"

Sam quietly explained about the red head. "She understood him, helped reach him where I couldn't."

Bobby looked dumbfounded. "An angel? Better yet, a fallen angel? They ever intimate? Hell he wouldn't have told you that if they were. Damn, boy, that would bring the hosts of heaven after him."

He snickered. "I think they were. Found some interesting hand smudge prints on the window."

"In the Impala? Dean? He worships that car! He'd never have sex in it. Would he? What kind of prints on the window? Wait a minute. Which window?"

"Back seat."

“Shit."

He laughed quietly at that.

"That boy has got to learn to keep his pants zipped up. I am guessing Cas doesn't know this. Let's keep it that way. Dean can't marry an angel. At least, I don't imagine God would allow it."

"Probably not. I don't know if Cas knows or not."

"Well, his main interest in the journal is Lisa and Ben Braeden. Anna is interesting by her being inconspicuously absent in the journal. Jo is mentioned. I think, for a long time, he thought of her as a sister. He mentions hitting on her the night before she died. He tell you that? I guess he either got over his fear of Ellen, or he his interest had changed."

"Or Dean had a feeling that someone wasn't going to make it."

"That's more than likely. Dean wanting one last fling before the possibility of death. Sam, Dean thinks you will kill him if Lucifer gets you. He's not gonna let you, boy, but you ought to know that."

Sam looked sadly into the fire. "I'd kill myself first before that happened."

"Dean is determined to keep that from happening to you. He loves you, Son."

"I know he does, and I love him. I'd rather die before hurting him again."

"Well, I think the feeling is mutual between you two and that's how it should be. Just don't fall back into the old ways. That's what messed both of you up. You are both on the road to normalcy. Keep it that way, Son. I am gonna head to bed if we want to have any day at all, today."

"Get some rest Bobby."

"You too, Sam. Bank the fire and get some rest. I love you, Son."

"Love you too, Pop."
Bobby smiled as he wheeled to the bedroom where Dean was sound asleep.

Sam stayed on the couch for a while, watching the fire as he thought about the conversation he'd had with Bobby.