He searches Dante's inferno.

His skin blisters, starts melting, but he doesn't scream.

His failure burns hotter.

He…stops.

He listens as a glimmer of awareness dawns.

Strong arms enfold him, a seductive, soothing rocking.

His brother's voice whispers.

"Sam, Sammy, shhh. You're scaring Bobby."

'A trick, a dream, Dean's gone.'

A tender hand on his head; he's tucked under a chin, heart beating against his ear.

'Deception' his fever crisped mind whispers.

He reaches out, tweaks skin between ribs and hip.

A strangled laugh, his hand gently grabbed.

"Dude, no tickling."

'Dean? Dean!'

Sam nestles closer, exhausted.

"Sleep, Sammy."

'