Epilogue

"Are you sure you're feeling well enough to go?" Dean asked Sam for the second time and the younger brother rolled his eyes.

"Dean, if I could face an angry spirit with a broken wrist and bruised back, what makes you think I can't sit at a party?" He made his tone light, not wanting to get into an argument with his brother although he was greatly annoying him at the moment. But Dean was just concerned and maybe feeling a bit guilty and that kept Sam under control.

"I...I know. It's just you were already banged up and then you got thrown around by the ghost. I know you're probably still hurting and..."

"Dean." Sam cut him off. "I'm fine, I'm feeling great actually. I'm still a bit sore but I can feel myself finally healing. You even said my back is looking better and I can finally put a bit of weight on my arm. I just spent two days sleeping in bed dude. I'm all energized and ready to do something."

Dean smiled, hearing the truth in his brother's words. "You know it's a pool party, so you better put on that water-proof lining that you use in the shower."

"Yes, mom." Sam rolled his eyes once again. Jess's parents had been convinced that their house was spirit-free over the past two days. Jess had even said that she had never heard the house more quiet and peaceful. So to celebrate (and because they knew the boys would be leaving any day) they had decided to throw a party. The celebrations were to thank Dean and Sam but they had invited neighbors and friends as well, claiming it was just a simple pool party. Dave had stopped by the day before and had sounded excited when he told the boys. He was all smiles as he informed Sam that he wanted everyone to meet his daughter's friends. Sam had grinned at that, Dave had come a long way from when Sam had first met him. And it wasn't as though Dave had ever necessarily looked down on Sam because of his disability. He just wanted someone that could protect his daughter and treat her right, be able to care for her. And Sam had proved that and more to him.

Sam's heart sunk a little though when he realized that he and Jess weren't even exactly boyfriend and girlfriend. He never had actually asked her out, they had only been on a few dates. And it wasn't as if Sam could ask her out because it wouldn't be fair to her. She wouldn't want a boyfriend that was about to leave across the country, not knowing when or if he would be back. It was not like they could ever hope for a future together with hunting. Even if Jess had asked to come along (which she wouldn't) Sam wouldn't have let her. He wasn't about to put her in that type of danger.

For the first time since he had found his family Sam thought about the idea of settling down. He didn't want to lose his family, but maybe...after a while, maybe when they found this demon in Sam's visions...they all could. He let his mind wander to his father buying a house, going on dates with Jess, Dean finding a girl...the two of them raising their own families, visiting on weekends. It was absurd, frightening and a little strange but it was also exciting. But he had to be realistic. Who knew how long it would take to find this demon and if they would stop after they killed it...if they ever managed to kill it. Who knew if they would ever be able to adjust to that type of life or if they would enjoy it? He couldn't ask Jess to wait for him; it was unfair and unrealistic to wait for someone that you probably would never have. It wasn't like they knew each other all too well anyway. Jess dated him, had a nice week but would move on, forget about him. She had to. Who knew if they would have worked out anyway? She would find someone who could give her everything she wanted, someone who could stay with her and she wouldn't have to wait for. Someone who was less of a hassle...

"Hey, you alright?" Dean's concerned voice brought Sam out of this thoughts and back into the real world. Dean was sitting on the bed, eyeing Sam across the room with curiosity.

"Yeah, yeah I'm fine. It's just going to suck to leave," he admitted, no use hiding it from Dean. Besides, it felt better to tell someone who would understand.

"I knew something was bugging you when you had that emo face on." Dean smirked and then got serious. "I know, it will suck. Jess is one cool chick. You two make an awesome couple."

Sam smiled a bit, he knew how much it must have taken Dean to say something sappy like that and he appreciated it. "I just really like her, you know? There was this sort of connection from the start. She was the first person other than you and dad that I felt completely comfortable with."

Dean nodded, unsure of what to say. "She's a special person Sammy. And I could tell she was interested in you from the get-go. And it only got worse from there." He winked and then cocked his head to the side. "You know, we could stay a while longer after dad gets back. He should be back tomorrow but we could stay, give you two some more time together."

"No," Sam said right away. "No it's fine." The sooner they left the better. Because if they stayed longer that would only mean Sam would get more attached to Jess and his feeling would deepen even more. It would be harder to say goodbye. One look at his brother's face and Sam knew he understood.

"So I think we should start back up your exercises now. It's been a while since we've done them. Don't want your legs to go wasting on ya' do you?" Sam was grateful that Dean changed the subject. He let his brother help him out of his wheelchair and onto the ground as they continued the routine.

"Sam! Dean!" As soon as the brothers were out of the Impala they were bombarded with Jess. She first bent down to hug Sam tightly and gave him a kiss on the lips and then hugged Dean with just as much force.

"Hey, Jess," Sam said and right after Dean quirked an eyebrow.

"Excited much?" he asked her with a laugh.

"I'm so excited! This is going to be so much fun. Some of my friends that I made here are coming and I can't wait to introduce you guys to them." She eyed Dean. "And who knows...you might even find someone you like." She winked.

Dean rolled his eyes. "Haha, very funny."

"I'm not kidding Dean. I know some of my friends would be very interested in you." She turned so she was facing both of the boys. "Anyway my parents are waiting to see you guys. Let's go into the house."

Sam wheeled himself over the grass with a little bit of difficulty until he made it onto the cement path leading towards the house. His arm wasn't giving him much pain when he pushed himself around anymore but he could feel a little bit of pain when he wheeled over uneven terrain. Sam could also tell that Dean was hovering but he wasn't bugging Sam so it could be called a fair trade. Sam knew he would need extra help with his wrist broken but he wanted to do as much as he could independently.

When they entered the house both Sam and Dean were greeted by Jess's smiling parents. After they hugged both of the boys Jen immediately burst into conversation.

"We can't begin to thank you boys enough. What you did for us and our home...we could have...no we would have died without your help. Sam...you believed in Jess when even we didn't and Dean...if you hadn't come to the house that night, who knows what would have happened...you two..."

She was cut off by Dave's cough. "I think the boys get the point." He laughed. "Basically what she is trying to say is that we all thank you both so much, and we know we could never repay you. We're so lucky that Jess chose such nice friends and the least we can do is throw a party for you."

"Really, it's no big deal." Sam grinned at them both, feeling extremely comfortable around Jess's family. "It's our job anyway."

"Yeah," Dean added in, peering over Dave's shoulder at the food in the kitchen. "And by the look of the food in there, that's all the thanks we need!"

Sam rolled his eyes as Jen smiled. "Actually we're just about to set it up on the table outside. More guests will be arriving any minute. You boys make yourselves at home. We have a deck of cards and board games out on the picnic table for you to play with. The pool is open, and there's..."

"I'm sure they will find something to do honey," Dave interrupted his wife and winked at the boys. "Go on outside and have fun."

They turned around and Jess rolled her eyes as she led the boys out of the house.

"You're parents are so nice," Sam told her and Jess huffed.

"They're annoying and awkward." She sighed. "But I guess that's to be expected after a ghost experience. I guess I just handle these things better than them."

"You handled it a lot better than nearly anyone we've come across," Dean pointed out and Sam nodded his agreement.

Jess smiled sweetly. "I guess I'm just awesome like that. So how about we take a dip in the pool? It's 85 degrees out here and it's not going to get any cooler."

"I'm up for that," Dean said with a grin. "How about you Sammy?

Part of Sam didn't want to go into the pool in fear of embarrassment. He'd only been in the water that one time with Jess and they'd been alone then, not at a party. But Sam shook off the feeling. All they would be doing was relaxing in a pool and he would be with Dean and Jess. There was no reason to be embarrassed in front of them or Jess's parents.

"Yeah, that's a good idea," He agreed

It kind of sucked that Sam needed Dean to help him out of his wheelchair and into the pool. At least he was able to get out of his clothes on his own, glad that he had swimming trunks on under his jeans. But it was an in-ground pool and it was slippery. Plus he didn't trust his broken arm. He was finally in with his cast wrapped in the protective waterproof casing and Dean was holding him upright when Jess threw him an inner tube.

"Get in that so you can hold yourself up," she told him as she easily hopped into the pool. Sam envied her for that. Even though the water was only three feet Sam couldn't even go in it without some kind of support. His legs had no way of holding him up and he grudgingly accepted the inner tube because without it, he would drown.

"Wait a second, before you get in that Sammy..." Dean started to say and the next thing Sam knew were his big brother's strong hands on his shoulders pushing him under the water. He didn't even have time to react as he accidentally breathed in the water and it stung his eyes. He felt panic for only a second but a moment later Dean was pulling him up and placing the inner tube around him, both he and Jess were laughing like maniacs.

"Dean!" Sam coughed up water and grabbed onto the sides of the tube for dear life. "God, you're such a jerk!" He blinked furiously trying to get the chlorine out of his eyes.

"Well that's what you get for being a little gimp." Dean was practically giggling and Sam couldn't help but laugh right along, no matter how much he wanted to pretend to be mad.

Jess didn't seem to mind though and once he was situated in the inner tube she wadded over and gave him a passionate kiss at which Dean gagged.

"Hey Sam," he interrupted the couple. "What d'you think? Would you like to try and stand?"

Sam looked at his brother, perplexed. "Stand?"

"Yeah." Dean waved his hand towards the middle of the pool. "It gets deeper there. It should work."

Suspiciously, Sam eyed the water, unsure of what to say. Jess nudged his arm. "Come on, Sam," she encouraged him. "Give it a try. We'll make sure you won't get under."

"Sure. Or Dean takes the chance and drowns me completely."

"Now I'm offended." Dean pouted and splashed a wave of water into Sam's face. But then he got serious. "C'mon, Sam, the water will support your weight. I promise I won't push you under."

Sam still wasn't sure, but eventually he nodded his consent. Jess took the inner tube away from him and Dean grabbed him under his arms, dragging him to the middle of the pool, where the water was about 5' 3''. Jess made sure Sam's feet were placed firmly on the ground while Dean stood in front of his brother, holding him up. "You okay?" he asked.

"Yeah, I'm good." Sam had to admit he liked the experience. Although he couldn't feel his feet on the ground and had to rely on Dean and Jess to prevent his knees from buckling, he was experiencing a completely new level of independence. He was standing. Actually standing without the help of crutches or parallel bars. Dean had his hands loosely around his waist to help him keep his balance but he was standing on his own and it was a great feeling.

After a few minutes Sam's knees buckled out under him and he fell forward into Dean's waiting arms that pulled him into a hug. He was panting from the effort of standing on his feet, but he felt good.

"You did it, Sammy." Dean beamed and Sam felt himself break into a broad smile, too.

"That looked good," Jess agreed and between her and Dean they dragged Sam back to the edge where Jess first planted a kiss on Sam's lips and then handed him the inner tube back.

For the next fifteen minutes they simply relaxed in the pool, splashed each other and threw a beach ball around. They made a game out of it where they could only throw and catch with one arm, mainly because Sam could only use one since he needed the other arm to keep himself upright on the inner tube.

Sam couldn't help but notice the change in his brother as he lunged after the ball and became submerged in water. Dean seemed so carefree, so happy and it was the most Sam had ever seen him relax and just be himself. Dean had taken another one of those pills this morning but he had still been jittery until now. It was as though Dean had two large burdens taken off his shoulders during their stay in Michigan. First of all, he had finally gotten Sam to go on a date, and Sam himself knew just how happy it made Dean to see his younger brother so content with Jess, to finally find a girl that appreciated him for all the right reasons. And there was also the issue that Dean didn't have to deal with his smoking anymore. He no longer had to worry about the constant ache and when his next smoke would be and where he would go to smoke it. Sure, that ache was still there, but Dean had taken that final step to not smoke again and soon it would fade and there would be no more anxiousness.

Speaking of Dean, the older brother had stopped throwing the beach ball in mid-stride and was now looking over Sam's shoulder with a smile on his face. Before Sam could ask Dean wadded over to him and nudged his shoulder.

"Check it out man, there's a whole group of hot chicks headed our way. Not that you're interested." He motioned towards Jess.

Sam laughed as he rolled his eyes. Jess was now waving over at the girls to meet her. "Jess could help get you hooked up with one of them." Sam winked and that earned him a mouthful full of water from Dean.

"Oh silly Sammy." Dean shook his head. "I won't even need Jess's help; they will just be forced to gravitate towards me with my charm. You should know that by now."

The girls walked over and didn't even try to hide their glances at the boys, blushing when Dean winked at them. As soon as they jumped into the pool Dean was off, and Sam could see him specifically heading towards the long-haired brunette.

A friendly looking girl with short blonde hair started talking to Jess; throwing glances Sam's way and he could only guess that Jess was telling her about him. But with Dean gone girl-chasing and Jess talking with a friend, Sam was left alone in the corner of the pool with the third girl grinning at him.

At first Sam was confused; no girl other than Jess had ever taken any real interest in him. But then he remembered that she couldn't tell that he was paralyzed, he was floating in the pool and his wheelchair was under a tree, hidden from any swimmer's view.

"Hey there. I'm Mandy." She smiled and made her tone so cheery and flirty that it sounded fake. I haven't seen you around here, are you new in town?" She started twirling her still-dry hair with one finger and Sam had the sudden urge to splash her. He already didn't like her from the way she was acting; he had seen enough of these girls back in high school.

"I'm just visiting with my brother." He kept his sentences short, unsure of what to do. He'd never been hit on by a girl before and he was at a loss. What was he supposed to say to her? What would make her go away without getting mad?

"Who? That guy over there?" She pointed a thumb back at Dean who was laughing with the other girl. "He's okay looking, but I'd prefer you. You're thinner, stronger looking. What happened to your hand?"

"It's broken."

"Did you have an accident?"

"Sort of." Sam was frantically searching for an escape route, but there was none.

"That's why you use this inner tube?" Mandy asked. "Don't worry, I will help you out." Mandy tried to pull the inner tube away, but Sam held on to it tightly. He didn't say anything but after looking into his eyes, Mandy backed off a bit. But just for a moment. Then she smiled and ran one of her hands over Sam's muscles on his arm. "Woahh," she giggled and her eyes widened in awe. "You have very strong arms."

He froze, in shock and tried to push himself away from her stroking his arms but he was already in the corner of the pool. Luckily Sam saw the short-haired girl tap Jess on the shoulder and point at them.

In mere seconds Jess was at his side. She smiled calmly and threw a casual arm around his shoulders before she leaned in to kiss him. "Hey sweetie," she said as she pulled away.

The panic must have been evident on his face because Jess just grinned and winked at him, understanding. She turned to Mandy who had an evil look in her eye. "I see you've met my boyfriend Sam." She grinned broadly which caused Mandy to mutter something under her breath about 'all the hot ones being taken' and turn away.

"Thanks for the rescue," Sam whispered and Jess moved so she was behind him and wrapped both her arms around his chest, holding him steady.

"It was my pleasure."

Exiting the pool was going to be a problem. Normally Sam would have been able to push himself out but the broken wrist prevented him from doing so.

All of the girls including Jess had already gotten out of the pool and Sam gave his brother a knowing look.

"Ready to get out?" Dean asked, flipping over from where he had been floating on his back.

"Yeah." Sam looked back to where Jess's friends were. They were still eyeing the brothers and Jess wasn't with them because she was helping to set up the food. Sam really didn't want them to find out he was paralyzed. It had been nice being treated normally for once even if that girl did creep him out. But what was he going to do? It wasn't like he could stay in the pool the whole night.

Dean glanced over at the girls as well. "I don't think they're going to be looking away any time soon Sammy. Come on; let's get you outta here before you shrivel up."

Sam sighed as Dean hopped out of the pool with ease. He positioned his arms on the side of the pool and Dean grabbed him under the armpits, hoisting him out of the water and onto the cement, his legs still hanging into the water.

Sam dried himself off with the towel Dean offered him while his brother went to go get the hidden wheelchair. He now saw that the group of girls were staring at him with confusion and curiosity because Dean had to help him out of the pool. Great.

Dean returned moments later and unfolded the wheelchair in front of Sam. Neither of them looked over at the group, not wanting to see their sure to be shocked faces. Dean had to help Sam into the chair again and Sam cursed his broken arm. He must look like a complete invalid. At least if his arm wasn't broken he would have been able to get out of the pool and into his wheelchair by himself and he wouldn't be as embarrassed.

Sam stared down at his limp legs, knowing the girls saw them as well. He took off the water-proof covering on his cast and handed it to Dean who wrapped the towel around his shivering brother's shoulders.

"Thanks," Sam said through chattering teeth, trying hard not to get upset over the way the girls were staring at him with their mouths wide open.

Jess started walking back to the pool and had to smile at the sight before her. Dean was helping Sam into his wheelchair with gentle hands and then wrapped a towel tightly around his shivering brother. Jess thought it was just adorable how much he cared about his little brother and it made her wish that her parents would have had another child so she could take care of a sibling.

She began heading towards the brothers when she heard her friends call out to her. She sighed when she noticed Mandy waving at her quickly. She didn't like Mandy all that much. The girl was annoying and snobbish. But she and the other girl Lisa hung out with her good friend whose name was Alisha. Jess had known Alisha since her family started staying here for the summers and Lisa was okay, they just weren't as close.

So Jess changed course and walked over to Mandy. As soon as she saw what the girls were looking at she became angry. The three of them were staring at Sam and his wheelchair. God, why couldn't people just accept him? What was so hard about that?

"What do you want?" Jess said with a frustrated sigh once she was face to face with the group.

Alisha was about to speak up when Mandy butted in.

"That guy you're dating...Sam...he's a cripple? Seriously Jess?" she said with a hint of disgust in her voice. "You could do so much better! What about that guy I tried to hook you up with last summer? So you're just going to stick for someone that's so weak and helpless that he can't even stand up on his own?"

Jess was fuming; she glanced over at the brothers and knew that they had heard her. Dean was sending Mandy a glare so intense that Jess was surprised she didn't burn on the spot. And Sam...poor sweet Sam was just sitting there with his head down, face flushed with embarrassment.

Before Jess was able to get her act together Alisha turned to face Mandy.

"You've got to be kidding me Mandy. Are you really that shallow?"

Mandy scrunched her face up and popped her hip out. "I saw you look at him just like I did, so don't try to play nice."

"I did not look at him like you did! Yeah I was shocked but not for the same reason you are. I wasn't shocked that Jess would be dating him, but I couldn't believe that it was his wheelchair I saw standing under the tree. I never would have guessed. He's just so strong and good looking and I had no idea. I saw you trying to flirt with him; don't tell me that just because he uses a wheelchair that it makes him less attractive?" Alisha raised her voice, the subject clearly upsetting her and inside Jess was cheering. Not only because she was taking Jess's side but because she wasn't judging Sam.

"Actually it does," Mandy said after a moment, clearly taken aback by Alisha's outburst. "I would be so embarrassed to be seen with him."

"He's hot!" Lisa suddenly blurted out and the three other girls turned to look at her. Now this was the shocker of the day. Lisa knew what was right and what was wrong but she almost always kept her mouth shut. The girl hated confrontations and felt awkward in the situations, never taking a side and remaining neutral. However Jess did see her talking with Dean, maybe the older brother made her gain some confidence, open her up a bit.

"Seriously, you too?" Mandy shook her head in obvious disbelief.

"What? It's true." Lisa shrugged. "And Jess always has the perfect taste in guys. I wouldn't be talking about Jess being able to find other guys if I were you. All the boyfriends you've had have been assholes and used you." Lisa blushed then, even she couldn't believe what she had spoken. "I'm just saying," she said with a whisper and another shrug.

Mandy took a step back, staring at all three girls and then glanced back at the brothers. She had a look of betrayal on her face and it made Jess want to laugh. She found the courage to speak without getting angry though due to her friends' support.

"Don't underestimate Sam because he can't walk, Mandy. You have no idea how strong he is. Actually he broke his wrist when he was saving my life. Did one of your boyfriends do something like that for you?" She simply smiled at Mandy.

"At least they could walk," Mandy tried to justify herself.

Alisha snorted. "You're so right. They were assholes, but at least walking assholes. You have to listen to yourself, Mandy." She shook her head.

Mandy huffed and spun around, not looking back as she left the backyard.

Dean saw the girl leave and curiosity took over. He had to figure out what was going on. He had heard the beginning of the conversation but since then they had quieted down and left both brothers wondering.

"Hey, I'll be right back Sammy," Dean said, knowing that Sam wouldn't want to follow. As he approached them Jess met him half way.

"She was a jerk Dean. Me and my friends told her off. Would you mind keeping my friends entertained while I go tell Sam?"

"You're asking me if I could go talk to two hot girls? I really thought you knew me better than that." Dean shook his head and Jess laughed in response as she went to talk to his brother.

"Hey ladies," Dean said with a grin as the girls turned around. Alisha was really hot in Dean's opinion with a sassy short hair-do. Lisa was more shy, reserved and usually would not be Dean's type of girl but there was something about her that drew him to her. It was as if she was more real and seemed that she knew who she was and wasn't going to change. Dean liked that, he liked the conversation they had in the pool. It had dawned on him then that just talking and getting to know a girl was so much better than a one-night stand. He felt like he actually had a connection with Lisa by just simply talking with her, it was nice. But then again, getting attached to someone never turned out well in his line of work, it would only end up hurting them.

"Hey." Alisha grinned at him. "I can't believe Jess met such cute brothers and now you guys are leaving just when we met you!" Dean figured that Alisha had asked Jess about them and she explained that they weren't staying.

"Wait, you're leaving?" Lisa asked and sounded disappointed. "You never told me that."

"Yeah, me and Sam work with our dad traveling around the country. We never stay in one place too long." Dean smiled at her only for Lisa's face to fall even more as she stared at the grass below her.

"Oh," was all she said before walking away towards the food that was now on a table. Dean gave Alisha a questioning glance.

"She likes you. She told me that she thought she finally found a good, nice guy. A lot of guys ignore her or don't get her a second glance because she's smart and pretty shy. It's hard for her to meet and talk to guys," Alisha explained while rummaging through her purse for something. "I gotta say that you didn't seem like her type though."

Dean let out a humorless laugh. "Yeah, I'm dyslexic and nearly was a high school drop-out. I'm sure a girl like that would want someone like me."

Alisha looked confused. "No, not like that. Do you think she would really care about things like that? I meant that you looked tough and snarky, like maybe you were a jerk like a lot of guys are."

Dean rolled his eyes. "Thanks a lot. I'm glad to know that I look like a creep."

"Not a creep. Just...that came out wrong. I mean she usually falls for the quiet and polite guys. You just surprised me. I watched how gently you helped your brother. You were nicer than we thought you would be." Alisha finally found what she was looking for and to Dean's horror she pulled out a white pack of cigarettes. She popped one out and put it in her mouth but before she could light it she caught Dean staring.

"You want one?" she asked and held out the pack to him.

Dean swallowed and he felt the slight headache that he had hit full force, making his head throb. He hadn't been aware how much he was craving for a cigarette. Now right in front of him was not only one, but a whole pack of them. Something that would make the headache and all the other pains vanish. And there he had been thinking he was over the cravings already. He felt himself begin to sweat and his fingers twitch as he stared at the offending box. Just one, only one and he would feel better again, he'd be able to get a full night's sleep again...

Dean felt himself raise his head and then jumped back in shock. What the hell was wrong with him? Was he really that pathetic? It shouldn't be that hard to resist smoking anymore but here he was and he almost accepted the box from Alisha. These past few days had been okay because he wasn't around smoke and was only at the motel and Jess's house. Pretty soon he would be back in the real world. Back to people smoking everywhere on the streets and in diners. Back to going into bars full of thick smoke. Hell, they even carried around lighters when they hunted to light the bones...

This was not going to be as easy as Dean had thought.

Alisha saw his expression and took a hesitant step backward and she pulled the box closer to her. "Hey, it's okay. You don't have to have one. I wasn't trying to force you or anything, just asked because it seemed like you would be a smoker." She shrugged and but the box back in her purse only to pull out a lighter.

"I...no..." Dean couldn't seem to take his eyes of the cigarette in her mouth. "I quit."

"Can't really see why you would but hey, it's your choice and good for you." Alisha mumbled and finally lit the cigarette.

The smell hit Dean's sense in a flash and he almost ran over to grab Alisha's purse from her to get one of his own. God...it was so familiar and his body reacted like he needed it, like there was no reason why he shouldn't be smoking...

No, no he didn't need it. He just wanted it. He wasn't going to smoke ever again. He promised Sam and he wasn't going to get Sam hurt again because of his failing health. He had to get the hell outta here.

So Dean used all the willpower that he had and turned around. He nearly sprinted away from Alisha and to the front of the house. There was no way he could be anywhere near that smoke right now. He sat down on the front porch, well aware that his hands were trembling and his eyes stinging and watering. He was panting and he had no idea why. He felt his throat tighten up and the need to cough surged through him. Even though he wasn't smoking anymore the effects of the hated things still lingered in his body. He started coughing, still the loud dry coughs that he had while he was smoking. He placed his head between his legs where he sat on the porch and felt like he was breaking...falling apart...

"Dean?"

It was Sam, god bless his little brother. Dean didn't know how Sam always seemed to know when something was up with him, but Dean knew that it was mutual.

Dean didn't answer, not because he didn't want to but because he physically couldn't. His throat was clogged up and rough and he felt like he was on the onset of tears.

"Dean?" Sam asked again and sounded even more concerned. Dean heard his little brother approach him and heard Sam gasp, probably because he saw how much Dean was shaking.

"Are you okay? Dean, talk to me man, what's wrong?" Sam sounded scared and Dean hated that. There was no reason for Sam to be scared; it was just Dean over-reacting to a stupid smoke. Everything was fine...

Dean lifted his head and was met with Sam starring right at him with worry in his eyes, with Dean sitting on the step they were actually level to each other.

"Dean...you're scaring me man." Sam said and Dean realized that he in fact had been crying. He let out a laugh that was supposed to let Sam know he was okay. But it came out more of a whimper and just made Sam look more frightened. The only thing he could do now was try to talk to his brother.

"It..." He coughed, trying to get rid of the rasp that he had and cleared his throat. "It's okay Sammy. I'm fine."

"That's bullshit Dean. Look at your hands, your face! Something is wrong and you have to tell me. I'm not going to settle with the 'I'm fine' crap anymore."

Dean tried to smirk. "When have you ever?"

"I haven't." Sam gave him a soft smile. "So tell me what's going on, you know I'm here for you. Maybe I can help."

"I...just..." Dean sighed. He just needed to tell Sam and get it over with. "That girl...whatever her name is...with the short hair...she offered me a smoke."

"Alisha? What...did you take it?"

"No. But I almost did. I was that close Sammy, that close to losing all the progress I've made." He sighed and felt Sam put a hand on his shoulder.

"But you didn't. You resisted and that's all that matters. That's great Dean." Sam smiled and Dean looked down, dreading what he was about to tell him next.

"But Sammy...it's so hard. So freakin' hard...and god...all the cravings came back in full force and all of the side-effects. I felt out of control like I couldn't make up my own mind. I felt so lost...I was scared Sammy."

Sam's face changed from the smile into a frown. "Shit Dean, I didn't know it was so hard on you. Why didn't you tell me?"

"It's not too bad but when someone offered me one and lit up right in front of me..."

"She lit up in front of you? Oh man..." Sam sighed and squeezed Dean's shoulder. "Did you tell her you quit?"

"Yeah, but it's not like I blame her for lighting up right there. She didn't know that I just quit...I'm just so afraid. I don't trust myself if we have to go into a bar where everyone is smoking..."

"Dean, don't worry about it. I'll be right there with you to help you. To make sure that you don't make any stupid decisions and to remind you. We could stay out of bars for a while; get Dad to go by himself if he needs to get information. I know you like going to those places to hang out and earn money too; there's gotta be some smoke-free places though."

Dean looked up into the clear blue sky and took a deep breath. He relished the way the fresh air entered his lungs with no traces of smoke at all. He felt like he could breathe so much better but he still hated the way his chest rattled when he breathed deeply. But that could be fixed. The longer he didn't smoke the better he was going to get. He could do this; he could do this with Sam by his side.

"Thanks gimp." Dean said with affection and playfully punched Sam's shoulder. "Anyway, how are you feeling? Did Jess talk to you?"

"You're welcome jerk." Sam grinned and it was a true smile. "And yeah I'm fine, Jess told me what happened. Kind of cool for the girls to stick up for me."

"Yeah it was," Dean agreed when something caught his eye in the distance. "Don't look now but I think your friend is coming to pay us a visit."

Sam's eyes darted side to side, something he did when he was thinking or confused. "Who?" he asked, not wanting to turn around.

"You know... that one guy who called you a faker and tried to push you down his porch?"

"Mr. Luke?" Sam paled a little. "Oh god, he's going to call me out on using the wheelchair still to steal money or some crap at the party. Just you watch."

"Maybe the jerk came to a realization that you're not faking and came to apologize?" Dean joked as Mr. Luke stopped walking once he saw Sam, his face was growing red.

"I'll bet you ten bucks that he's going to say exactly what I just told you," Sam challenged.

Dean grinned, he loved making deals. "It's a deal," he said and smacked Sam in the head to seal the deal. "Uh-oh looks like he's not too happy to see you. I swear if he lays a finger on you again he's going down."

"You can't jump an old man Dean." Sam rolled his eyes and a moment later the brothers heard someone clear their throat. Sam turned around and was met with an angry Mr. Luke.

"So now you're on to scam the Moore family, huh boy?"

Dean stood up to stand next to Sam. "Oh yeah, you know we decided that there ought to be tons of innocent people hanging out here that would feel bad for Sam. So why not?" Dean's tone was full of sarcasm but obviously Mr. Luke didn't notice or didn't care.

The man looked like he was fuming now. "Listen you two punks, I don't know where you came from or what you think you're doing here, but this is my town. I've been living here for 30 years now and I find it my responsibility to look after the people who live here and make sure there is no crime. So either you leave right now or I will call the cops."

Dean moved in front of Sam, afraid that Mr. Luke would try to push his brother again. "Listen old man, I was being sarcastic in case you didn't notice. My brother has never been able to walk his entire life. We were invited here and we've never been trying to steal anyone's money."

"Excuse me?" Mr. Luke asked, taken aback. "I saw that boy coming to my house and he by no means knew how to handle the wheelchair properly."

"Maybe that would be because Sam had a sprained wrist and a sore back. It's not very easy to handle a wheelchair when you can barely lean back and your hand hurts with every movement." From the corners of his eyes Dean saw Dave walking up to them. Great, he thought, now Jess's father would learn about the embarrassing argument that had happened at Mr. Luke's doorstep.

Sam looked up at Mr. Luke. "We didn't try to scam you, we just had a few questions. But you never gave us the chance to explain."

The older man had started to frown. His gaze fell on Sam's cast and he paled a bit when realization dawned on him. "But…"

He was cut short when Dave arrived and casually laid his hand on Sam's shoulder. "Everything alright here, Henry?" he asked Mr. Luke with a friendly smile. "I see you've met my daughter's friends."

Mr. Luke looked at Dave, still frowning. "This boy is really paralyzed?"

Dave rose his eyebrows in confusion. "Yes, of course he is. Why would he need a wheelchair if he wasn't? I don't assume someone would use a wheelchair just for fun."

Mr. Luke had turned a beet red by the time. Dave shot Sam an inquiring glance. "Sam? What is this all about?"

"It was just a misunderstanding, Dave. We'll explain later."

Jen choose this moment to call out for Dave from the house, but Dave was reluctant to leave. "You sure everything's okay here?"

"We can handle it," Dean assured him. "Thanks."

After Dave had left, Dean turned around to watch Mr. Luke who had begun to squirm.

"I am so sorry." He sighed with guilt in his eyes. "It's just that I've had bad run-ins with kids before and I can't tolerate kid's feigning a disability. It makes me sick. I know my words may not count for much but I am truly sorry."

To Dean's surprise Sam just smiled. "It's okay. Let's forget about it."

Still upset, Dean looked at his brother. "Sammy, you can't be serious! This man nearly pushed you off his porch and accused you of being a thief and you don't care?"

Sam looked up at his brother. "No, I do care. But he apologized, so I accepted it. Actually, Mr. Luke stood up for disabled people when he thought I used the wheelchair to play on people's pity and I appreciate that."

Dean shook his head. "You have more guts than I do, Sam, " he muttered.

Henry Luke ran a hand through his hair. "And I can't even begin to apologize enough for that. I just thought you were faking and would jump out of the chair. Either way, that was foolish of me. I'm not sure what I could do to make up for that."

Dean mumbled something under his breath but Sam spoke up. "It's okay, really. You had the decency to apologize and that's enough for me at least. Just try to not jump to conclusions the next time."

Mr. Luke nodded, still not looking convinced. "So let's start over then. My name is Henry Luke." He held his hand out to Sam who shook it. "I'm Sam Winchester and this is my brother Dean." Mr. Luke turned to Dean and after a moment of grudgingly staring at the man's hand Dean grunted and shook it quickly.

Awkward silence hung between them for a few moments before Dave butted in from the door. "Food is ready. Everyone come and grab a plate."

Dean grabbed onto that opportunity to leave. "Hell yeah, I'm starved! I hope they have some pie."

An hour later Dean was making his way through the third slice of pie. Sam watched him affectionally, but was soon again distracted by Jess who sat on his lap. A few people looked at them, most of them with an understanding smile, but there were a few with a disapproving frown on their faces. If it was because they showed their young love to everyone or because they found it disgusting that Jess had a disabled boyfriend, Sam didn't know and he didn't care. He was happy. The hunt had gone well, the Moore's house was safe again, the throbbing in his hand had ceased during the last few days and he had the most beautiful girl on his lap. Why should he be bothered about a few frowns that came from narrow-minded people?

But Jess shifted uncomfortably on Sam's lap as she looked over his shoulder. "There's a man watching us."

Sam snorted. "I'm sure he thinks you should find yourself a guy on legs instead of wheels."

"Don't be silly. Maybe he just thinks it's inappropriate for us to hug here where everyone can see us."

"Okay, so let's give him something to see." With his left hand, Sam gently pulled Jess's head down until their lips touched and he kissed her passionately.

"He's still watching us," Jess mumbled around his lips. "Now he's coming towards us."

Still kissing her, Sam let go of her neck to turn the wheelchair around and have a look at the man who seemed to be so interested in them. When he came in view, though, Sam abruptly broke the kiss and pushed Jess off his lap as quickly as he could without being rude. He licked his lips, feeling his cheeks burning. "Oh, hi Dad."

John grinned broadly, not even trying to hide his amusement. "Hi Sam. Looks like you're having fun."

"Yeah. Ah, this is Jess." Sam wished for the ground to open up and swallow him. Why the hell had he put on a show like this?

"Nice to meet you, Jess." John smiled genuinely at the girl, who was as embarrassed as Sam. His smile fell, however, when his gaze came to rest on Sam's cast. "What happened to your hand, son?" he asked worriedly.

Sam looked at his hand as if he noticed the injury just then. "Oh, that. I broke my wrist when I caught Jess."

"You caught her?"

"Yeah." Sam cringed under his father's scrutinizing gaze. "When the ghost pushed her down the stairs."

John raised his eyebrows. "The ghost."

Sam nodded. "But my wrist already had a hairline fracture before because the ghost slammed my hand against a computer desk."

"A computer desk?"

"Yes, in Jess's parents' bedroom."

"And what were you doing there?"

"I was trying to protect Jess and her mom from the ghost."

"You were?"

"Yes. At least until Gloria smashed me into the wall."

"Gloria?"

"The ghost."

"Ah, I see. And it smashed you into a wall?"

"Hm. It wasn't so bad, dad. And neither was the knife wound. It's almost healed."

With his eyebrows still enquiringly raised, John just looked at him, causing Sam to squirm even more.

"She stabbed my thigh. There was nothing I could do to prevent it, dad. But as I said, it's almost healed. And we took care of the ghost."

John closed his eyes for a moment and heaved a deep sigh. "How about you tell me the story from the beginning? Any more injuries I should know about?"

"Only some collateral damage," came Dean's voice from behind and he beamed as he hugged John. "Hi dad. Nice that you could make it."

With a beer in his hand, John leaned at a tree and watched the party. After hugging his boys and making sure that Sam was okay, he had sneaked away. He was exhausted and that was an understatement. Helping Bobby recover from the physical and emotional pain from being taken by the demon that had killed his wife had been tough. He had to stay longer than he had intended and he just wanted to get back to his boys and then sleep for a week. However he had gotten a call from Sam and Dean telling him about a party they were going to. It was at the house of the girl Sam had been seeing and they had really sounded eager for him to come if he was home in time. He just couldn't deny that especially when his boys had sounded so happy. So once he finally made it back in town he followed the instructions they had given him and ended up at a nice looking beach-front house. And he had to admit, just seeing Sam squirm like this had been worth the effort.

John smiled. He knew it had been mean to embarrass Sam like that but he truly had enjoyed the little banter. He was eager to hear more about the hunt but this would have to wait. It wasn't recommendable to discuss the aspects of a ghost hunt in the middle of a party.

Fondly, he looked over at his boys who were now sitting at a picnic table with Jess and two other girls, their happy voices carrying over to him. John smiled when he heard Sam berate Dean about his fourth piece of pie. They seemed so carefree and John made a mental note to take some more time off now and then because his sons deserved a break and he would like to share it with them. He looked over at the food, debating whether or not he should head over there now because he was starving and it had been a while since he had a quality meal. He saw what looked to be a blueberry pie on the table and shook his head from knowing that Dean wouldn't be leaving that table anytime soon. He switched his attention back to Sam and Jessica when a man who had been playing cards at a table a few minutes ago walked up to him. He looked over to where John was staring and came closer.

"I know what you're thinking. You're not the only one." When John raised an eyebrow at the man he continued. "That Moore daughter is beautiful; she could have anyone she wanted. But she's with that crippled boy. It just doesn't make sense to me, a girl like that with half a man. Why didn't she date the brother instead?"

For a moment John stared at the man with his mouth hanging open. He was caught completely off-guard. It wasn't by far the first time he had to deal with prejudices but he hadn't expected them at this place.

He was about to answer when a feisty woman cut him short. "I can tell you why, Calvin," she said with sparkling eyes. "Because Sam is a very nice boy. His brother is as well, but Sam and Jess are a perfect match. I can't believe you're so narrow-minded. Can't you see he's just a normal boy who has every right to be happy, to laugh and to love? He just can't walk, that's all."

Calvin raised his hands in defeat. "Yeah, I get it, Maureen. Don't kill me; I'm out of here already." Winking at John, he made his way back to the card table.

Jerk," Maureen muttered under her breath.

Smiling, John looked at the woman who turned to him and suddenly looked embarrassed. "I'm sorry," she said. "I didn't want to interrupt your conversation. It's none of my business, but I can't help getting angry at such talks. This boy, Sam, he is a great guy and he doesn't deserve to be judged like this." She extended her hand. "I'm Maureen, by the way."

John shook her hand. "My name is John. Nice to meet you."

Maureen looked over at the young folks at the table. "I met those boys a few days ago and I liked them a lot. It's a shame that young people like Sam have to suffer from disabilities, but he's doing great. I think Jess made the right choice." Maureen frowned. "You don't agree with what Calvin said, do you?"

"Absolutely not." John smiled. "He can count himself lucky that you came just in time. I wouldn't have left it at a tongue-lashing. No one talks about my son like that and can just walk away."

"Your son?" Maureen exclaimed. "You are…"

"Sam and Dean's father," John completed the sentence. "And I want to thank you for the way you stand up for my son."

"My pleasure." Maureen beamed. "How nice to meet you, John." She grabbed his elbow. "Come on, let's join the young folks. I want to get a piece of this delicious looking blueberry pie before Dean annihilates it all!"

John laughed and, shoving his exhaustion aside, followed Maureen's lead.

Despite the party and all the excitement the day and night flew by and the next thing Sam knew they were driving to the Moore's house to say goodbye.

John exited his truck as Dean helped Sam out of the Impala. Sam was planning on saying a short goodbye, he was already feeling upset and staying any longer would just make it worse. Jess and her parents came out as soon as they were out of the cars and walked over. Dave and Jennifer first came over to give both Sam and Dean a hug.

"Thank you boys so much for what you've done to help us. I can't say it enough about how grateful we are," Jennifer said to them and then looked to her husband who smiled.

"You two have been such a great help." He walked closer to Sam and bent down so that he was eye-level to the youngest Winchester. "I'm glad that my daughter found a boy like you." He grinned and patted Sam's shoulder before getting up again.

"Thanks." Sam smiled at him. The man would never know how much his words meant to Sam just then. Not only did Dave accept him, but he did seem to like him as well.

The parents went off to the side with Dean and John. Sam saw Jennifer hand Dean a container with a few pie slices in it and tried hard not to laugh, he didn't know how there was any left from last night.

Jess walked up to him and didn't waste any time as she hopped into his lap and wrapped her arms tightly around his shoulders, burying her face into his neck.

"I'm going to miss you so much Sam," she mumbled and Sam wrapped his arms around her waist in response.

"I'm going to miss you too. But we'll visit again, I promise. Maybe even when you're at school." Sam tried to stay as positive as he could, not wanting to seem weak or pathetic in front of Jess.

Jess looked up and gave him a lingering kiss, bringing her hands up to tangle in his hair. Sam kissed her deeply, savoring the feeling, knowing he wouldn't experience it again for a long time.

"I've had the greatest time with you Sam. I just want you to know that," Jess told him as they broke apart.

Sam smiled gently. "And so have I. But I don't want you to have to wait for someone that you would rarely see. I would love to be with you Jess but we have to face the reality that I travel all around the country. I don't want you to have to deal with that."

"But Sam." Jess looked crestfallen, but part of her expression understood. "I can't imagine feeling as connected with anyone as I do with you."

"I know Jess, trust me, I know. But you can't wait for me because you might never have a chance to be with me. I don't want anything to stop you from meeting other guys. If you like someone and have a feeling that it would work please give it a chance. I just want you to be happy, and not feel any guilt for doing it. Because even though I would want to be with you we have to face the facts and you deserve to have someone that would be there for you. So will you please try?" Sam's heart was breaking at his own words but he knew there was nothing else he could do.

Just like Sam expected, Jess looked upset but understanding. Jess was a smart girl and he knew that she would understand the logic behind what he was saying. "I will try Sam. It will be hard, but I promise you that I will. I don't want you worrying for me. Will you please promise to keep in touch though? No matter what, I don't want you gone from my life completely."

Sam nodded. "You know I'll be there to talk or text whenever you need me. As long as I'm not in the middle of chasing down a ghost or something that is."

That got a laugh out of Jess and she hugged him tightly and kissed him one more time before letting go. She then walked over to Dean and they hugged each other tightly. Jess said something to Dean that Sam couldn't make out and he kissed the top of her head and they pulled away. Sam watched with curiosty as Dean suddenly grinned brightly and whispered one last thing to Jess. Sam flushed because he knew his brother was saying something about him. It had to be embarrassing because Jess howled with laughter and punched his arm. He knew his brother had done it just to make Jess smile and seriously wondered how in the world Dean didn't have any friends.

When the Moores' finished talking with John everyone said their final goodbyes and then they were off.

"You still gonna talk to Jess?" Dean asked Sam casually as they pulled out onto the main road. Sam tried hard not to look behind him at the fading house and family.

"Yeah, we want to keep in touch, she told me to make sure."

Dean's lip twitched. "Funny, she told me to do the same. Said she wanted to talk to me still. I don't see why."

Sam gave Dean an incredulous look. "Because you're her friend Dean. Of course she'll still want to talk to you!"

Dean cocked his head to the side as they entered the freeway following their father. It seemed like he wasn't sure what to think of this. Sadly Sam noted that Jess was Dean's first and only friend other than his family. Even Sam had made some sort-of friends later on in high school.

This whole experience with Jess and her family hadn't just been helpful for Sam but for Dean as well. He had a feeling that what should have been another simple salt and burn would turn out to be a pivotal part in their lives. He knew for sure that he would never forget that week in Michigan and his mind couldn't help but wander to how different their lives could be if they had stayed there.

But wondering about those things wouldn't help anything. He did love his life and he loved his family. Sam stared out of the window in front of them and concentrated on the feeling of being out on the road again.

I hope that everyone enjoyed the story. If you did please take the time and leave a review, I'd appreciate it very much.

I want to thank my beta and friend Gabi2305 for all her help and the amazing chapters she wrote. This story would not be nearly as good without her. She developed the plot for the story and helped me decide which parts to keep or get rid of.

There are two sequels to the story. Next in the series would be "More Than Meets The Eye".