A.N.: E/O challenge, WOW:label, pre-series, 100 words on the dot, Stanford!Sam, dedicated to Numpty because I have been reading her story 'Black and Blue' (which is WONDERFUL, read it!) and she has reignited my fascination with pre-series Sam. Sorry for the late post, yesterday was my Dad's birthday. Thanks to all who read! Hope you enjoy!

Disclaimer: Not mine.

He doesn't know why people feel the need to label him with the nickname as soon as he introduces himself.

It's not like he says. "Hi. I'm Sam. Please call me Sammy."

Because he wouldn't. Ever.

He hates that name. Hates the memories it calls up in him, hates the feelings of remorse, love and guilt that roll over him in equally powerful waves.

Hates that people say it like they have earned the right, like that is who he is to them.

In his entire life he's only been Sammy to one person.

And he's not here.