Raising the Defiant Ones

John Winchester zipped up his duffel bag full if supplies that he would need that night. He quickly tidied up as the thumping and shouts from the next room began to escalate. He opened the bedroom door and walked the short distance to the living room where his two sons; Dean age 10 and Sam age 6 were wrestling on the floor. As he stood watching he was trying to figure out if the match was friendly or malicious. He finally shook his head and whistled causing the boys to stop in middle of their battle to look up at the source of the noise. They saw the distressed look on their fathers face and quickly let go of each other and jumped up.

“You two are making quite a racket out here.” John said as he ran his hand over his face.

“Sorry sir.” His eldest said his head down.

“I’m hungry.” Sam complained.

“Well then I guess I better make some dinner then.” John answered.

Dean was working on his homework while Sam lent a hand with the dinner preparations.

As Dean slogged through his grammar homework he couldn’t help but wonder what his dad had been working on his bedroom. He knew his dad was in a different line of work and he knew it was dangerous, but John would never share any details with him. He could hear the laughter and banging of pots and pans in the kitchen as he slipped out of his room and tiptoed across the hall to his father’s bedroom. He took a deep breath and gulped down the saliva that had suddenly flooded his mouth. He saw the bag next to the bed and as he checked behind him he fell to his knees next to it. He slowly unzipped the bag and began to sort through the contents. There were maps and bottles of water and knives and a gun, a big gun. Dean’s eyes grew wide as held the heavy weapon in his hands. Dean carefully set the gun back in the bag and as he pulled out the map that had a nearby area circled he saw a container that held several shiny silver bullets. He ran his fingers over the clip again and again. What was dad planning to do he wondered. He was pulled out of his trance when he heard John call to him that dinner was ready. He was a flourish of activity as he tried getting everything back into the bag and get it zipped before his father came looking for him.

Sam was his usual gabby self at dinner; jabbering on and on about school and the cartoon he had watched after school. Dean just stared into his plate as his mind raced with thoughts about his father would be encountering that night. John noticed his son’s behavior and asked if he was okay.

“I’m fine dad, just tired.” He mumbled.

John shook his head not believing his son but not knowing what else to say. Dean finally asked to be excused leaving John with babbling Sam.

It bothered John that he couldn’t connect with Dean. He hadn’t really kept up his parenting skills as Dean had grown. These are the types of things that Mary would’ve handled. She had the touch that would be oh so helpful in these situations. John was good at making demands and disciplining but getting in touch with feelings was not in his bag of tricks. He made one last attempt as Dean prepared for bed, but Dean refused his attempts to gain any information.

He had given Dean the usual instructions that he gave when he would be out for the night. Dean nodded but avoided looking John in the eyes. Something was off but he just didn’t have time to sort it out now.

Dean tossed and turned got out of bed and checked on Sam who was sleeping soundly deep under the covers. He then found himself standing in his father’s room. He turned on the light and went to sit on the bed. He climbed up onto the bed and grabbed the pillow and felt the tears forming in his eyes. He had no idea why he was crying but the tears just came. He was worried about his dad he was worried about his little brother and he was missing his mom terribly. He knew it all went back to that night, the night the fire roared through his house and his mother died; the night he carried his tiny brother out into the dark. After the tears ran their course he noticed a glint from something on the floor that caught the light. He hopped off the bed and quickly fell into a panic as he saw the clip full of silver bullets that he had held earlier that night. His breathing became louder and his heart pounded as he realized he must not have gotten the clip back into the bag earlier. He was in full panic mode sure that he had sealed his father’s death by being nosy and getting into his fathers things. He had to get this clip to his dad no matter the consequences. If anything happened to John it would be all his fault and Sam would hate him forever. He remembered the area that had been circled on the map and knew exactly where it was.

He quietly snuck back into his room and dressed in the clothes he had worn earlier that day. He checked on Sammy one last time and carefully closed and locked the door behind him. He walked several doors down to where an 11 year old boy named Max lived. They had played together until one day when Max called Sam a baby and Dean decked him. They hadn’t played since, but Dean did know that he had a bike in the garage and that the man door was always unlocked.

Should I continue?

You're off to a great start! :clap I really like what you have so far. It's so sad for Dean to learn the truth about what John does like that. I hope that he doesn't get hurt in whatever he's going to do.

I just have a couple of questions:
How old are Dean and Sam? I only ask so that I can get a mental picture of them as I read.

Is that supposed to say main door? I wasn't sure.

Again great start and I am eagerly awaiting more!

Thank you so much for your comments; I really do appreciate it. As for the ages they were in the first paragraph:

He opened the bedroom door and walked the short distance to the living room where his two sons; Dean age 10 and Sam age 6 were wrestling on the floor.

It does help to be able to picture them.

As for the door I meant the regular door that you walk through. I guess it is more of a local term and I should have been more specific...sorry.
Around here all garages need a regular door or a man door in addition to the overhead or large door where the car enters. I guess in case the big door won't open you aren't trapped.

I will post again either tonight or tommorow depending on my schedule. I'm in the States so I'm not sure what that might mean to you.

Thanks again. :wave

Thanks! I guess I must be blind or something for not catching that in the first paragraph. I've never heard the term man door before, so I guess I learned something new. I'm in the States too. I am eagerly awaiting the next update!

This was a great start. Please continue

Thank you for the encouragement. Here is part two.

Dean pedaled like mad to the location on the map. He saw the Impala parked in an inconspicuous spot off the road; he left the bike next to the car and began heading into the park. The night wasn’t terribly cold but Dean found himself shivering as he passed by the edge of the woods. The area was open with tennis and basketball courts picnic pavilion and playground equipment. John had brought the boys here many times already to burn off all that excess energy that all boys have. Dean recognized instantly where he was and began to walk towards the edge of the park where the trees became thick. He felt as though his heart was in his throat and he was struggling to keep his breathing even. He wished he could just find his dad. Even though he knew he would be in big trouble for being out in the middle of the night and for leaving Sammy alone Dean just wanted to find his dad. After what seemed like hours he was cold and decided that he would never find John on his own. Besides he needed to get back to his little brother in case he woke up. Dean had his head down and his hands in his pockets wandering in the general direction of the road. He was lost in his own head when he suddenly heard a twig snap, his brain hoped it was his dad, but his gut knew it wasn’t. He forced himself to look up and what he saw was the things nightmares were made of. The creature that stood over him was half man half wolf with large teeth that dripped saliva that landed at Dean’s feet. The stench was awful and caused Dean to gag. The claws that protruded from the hands or paws were as sharp as the knives in the drawer he wasn’t allowed to touch. The only thing that Dean could think of was how disappointed his father would be that he disobeyed him and how scared Sammy would be when he woke up in an empty house. He closed his eyes as tightly as possible, clutched the clip securely in his hand and waited for the monster to attack. He could feel the hot, stinky breath get closer and then he heard a sharp crack in the night air. It sounded like a big tree branch breaking. He dared not move and continued to wait for the imminent assault. He had no idea how long he had been hunched in that position but time held no meaning for him.

John had been tracking the werewolf for several hours but could never close the gap between the two of them. The wind kept shifting and the moon had danced in and out of the clouds all night making it difficult to get a good line on the monster. John figured he had a couple more hours left before he would need to head back home and get the boys up for school. He had followed the trail to the edge of the tree line and as he emerged from the woods he thought he saw the beast on the other side of the park. As he quickly and quietly moved towards the werewolf he thought he detected another form. The moon popped back out from behind a cloud and John’s fears were confirmed there was someone huddled at the beast’s feet. It was a small outline most likely that of a child. He wasn’t sure if he could get a good shot from his location, but he knew he needed to hurry. He looked up at the sky and saw that the cloud cover would soon again intrude on his light source. As he ran towards his mark he couldn’t help but think who would allow their child to be out at this time of night. He quickly looked to the sky and knew he had only a moment; he stopped and planted his feet and raised his steady arms. The shot echoed in the night and the werewolf fell backwards away from the child. John began to run again and reached the scene quickly. He put one more bullet into the creature’s heart to ensure success and then turned to the child.

John looked down preparing his words to comfort the youngster when his world stopped. He blinked and swallowed and then did it again. He knelt down and saw that the sobbing child was his own.

To be continued...

Yay, Dean's safe. I hope that John's not to hard on him for sneaking out. Great update! :clap I can't wait to read more! Please update soon!!!

Glad you like it Irishgirl. What will John do???

Part III


John had a million thoughts racing through his head as he carried his son to the car. He held his son tight, consoling him for quite a while until he looked down and saw that his exhaustion had finally taken over and pulled the boy into sleep. John carefully laid Dean down in the backseat and locked the doors. He then stowed the bike in the trunk and disposed of the werewolf. Thankfully Dean was still asleep when he returned. John just sat behind the steering wheel unable to move; it was only when he relaxed that the tears came. His whole body shook as he let his pain and fear out as quietly as he could as to not wake his son in the backseat.

John put the borrowed bike back in the neighbor’s garage and then carried his sleeping son into the rental house. He had neither the energy nor the desire to deal with Dean’s indiscretions at the moment. He gently pulled off his sons coat and pants and placed the still sleeping child in his bed. He then stepped over to his youngest son’s bed and pulled the covers up to his chin and was very grateful that the 6 year old slept through the whole ordeal. John then set the alarm on his watch and crashed on the couch.

After dropping Sammy off at school explaining to his young son that his brother was sick and staying home; he returned and tried to focus on what he might say to his eldest son when he woke up. He was angry and upset and terrified all at once and had no idea how to handle it.

His thoughts were swirling with the wind. He was reaching out for his sons but couldn’t grab them. They were just out of his reach and no matter how hard he tried they eluded his grasp. His world was forever dark, until he opened his eyes and saw Dean standing over him.

“I’m hungry dad.” The boy said rubbing the sleep from his eyes.

“I bet you are. I’ll tell you what lets gets some lunch and then we are going to have a long talk about what happened last night.” John explained.

“I’m in big trouble aren’t I dad?” The youngster asked.

“Yes Dean you are.” John assured him.

After they polished off their sandwiches and milk the Winchester men sat down on the couch to discuss the very important matters before them.

John began the conversation. “Dean what made you go out last night?”

The boy seemed unable to move or look at his father.

“I asked you a question son.” John pushed.

“I, I got into your bag and the bullets were on the floor after you left and I didn’t want you to get hurt so I was going to bring you the bullets but then I couldn’t find you and that monster showed up and I thought I was going to get killed.” Dean said in a rush.

John put his hand underneath Dean’s chin and forced the boy to look at him.

“What were you doing in my bag?” He asked.

“I just wanted to see what you were going to do. I know I’m not ‘posed to, but I did and I’m sorry. I got scared and must not have gotten everything in the bag and I didn’t want you to die so I snuck out to help you.” Dean finished as the sobs began.

John slid the crying boy over to him and put his arm around the trembling body. He just held and comforted him for a while before he launched back into his speech.
“Son there is a reason that I do my job alone, that you and Sam can’t come with me. There are also reasons why my things are private and little boys shouldn’t be nosing through them.” He explained. He hadn’t been ready to be honest with Dean about his night time activities but now he had no choice. “Sometimes there are real monsters that want to hurt people and I go out and find them. After I find them I make sure they don’t hurt anyone. Do you understand?”

“Did one of those monsters hurt mom?” Dean asked as tears began anew.

John knew this question would be asked one day and knew he would never be prepared for it. He took a deep breath and lifted his son into his lap.

“Yes Dean some kind of monster hurt your mommy and that is why I do this job so nobody else’s mommy will get hurt. Do you understand?”

The boy nodded up and down. “But why mom?” He sobbed.

“I don’t know son, I really don’t know. It wasn’t anything you did or didn’t do, okay? You need to know that, it wasn’t your fault. In fact mommy would have been so proud of the way you protected your brother that night and ever since.”

Dean nodded and then finished a very good cry his head buried in his father’s chest. After he was all cried out he looked up at his father and asked: “When I get bigger can I help you make the monsters go away?”

John looked down at the hopeful face of his son and smiled. “You bet you can.”

Dean climbed out of his fathers lap and dried his tears with some toilet paper from the bathroom. He then stood in front of his father and asked: “So how much trouble am I in?”

“Big trouble.” John answered.

To be continued...

Wonderful update!!! :cheer Poor John! It must have been so hard on him when he realized the child was Dean. Dean crying was so sad. I'm glad that John let him get it all out before he punishes him.

I loved this part:

I can't wait to read more!

Thanks Irishgirl, I want you to know that it means a lot to get the comments and know that the story is being enjoyed. I appreciate you pointing out your favorite quote. I liked that part too.
Now for the next installment.


Dean climbed out of his fathers lap and dried his tears with some toilet paper from the bathroom. He then stood in front of his father and asked: “So how much trouble am I in?”

“Big trouble.” John answered

“Spanking trouble?” Dean asked.

“You better believe it. Dean I was so scared last night. Do you have any idea how much danger you were in? How badly you could have been hurt? How can I protect you if you don’t listen to me and obey my rules?”

“But you did protect me.” The boy argued.

“You should’ve never been in that position. You should’ve never snooped in my things and you should have never left this house. You had a brave idea, but you put yourself in danger not to mention your little brother. Don’t you think Sam would’ve been scared to death if he woke up and saw that you weren’t here? What if he went out looking for you and got lost? What you did was so dangerous and you have to understand that.”

Dean nodded as a new tear wound its way down his face. “When will I be big enough to help you?” Dean managed to ask.

“Before you will be able to help me you have some growing to do and a lot of training to master.” John explained.

“What’s training?” Dean asked.

“It’s where you learn and practice all kinds of things; things you will need to know to stay safe. You will need to learn lots of skills, like shooting…”

“Like you did last night, yeah I want to learn that.” Dean interrupted excitedly.

“Close the mouth and open the ears.” John admonished his son. Dean nodded trying to look contrite. “You will also need to learn how to take care of your weapons, but it goes well beyond that. You will have to make your body strong and fast so it is ready to do whatever you need it to. You will have to read all about what you are hunting and learn exactly what it is and what it does.”

“Yuck.” Dean said wrinkling up his nose.

“And above all, you will need to learn how to follow orders with no exceptions.” John said sternly.

“When can we start?” Dean asked with enthusiasm.

“Hmmm, after you are done being grounded, but this will just be the very beginning, you are a long way from any real action; understood?”

“How long am I grounded for?” Came the inquisitive response.

“I think a week ought to do it; and Dean its okay if you change your mind about the training.” John told his young son.

“Okay a week and I won’t change my mind.” Dean said as he headed for his bedroom.

“Freeze young man.” John commanded. “We’re not done here.”

Dean stopped in mid-step, his eyes locked to the floor.

John had debated all morning about the action he was about to take, but felt that this was important enough that he push aside his anxiety. “We still have some unfinished business to take care of.”

“We do?” Was the meek response.

“Yes, you know we do.” John stated as his hand began to unbuckle his belt.

Dean’s eyes grew wide as he watched this action. This was of course not the first time he had suffered this type of punishment but his father had never used anything other than his hand.

“You need to come here.” John demanded. Dean remained rooted to his spot seemingly unable to move. “Dean Michael I am not asking you.” Dean still remained stationary. With a sigh John reminded himself how important this was to the safety of both of his sons. “Dude you do not want me to come over there.”

Finally there was motion from his son as he slowly shuffled towards his father. John had the belt folded in half with the buckle tucked in his palm. He wished he felt more confident about this decision. His head was saying one thing while his heart something completely different. He had always been the disciplinarian even when Mary was alive, but Dean’s errors back then were so trivial in comparison to life as they know it now that they seemed insignificant. Back then a stern word, a harsh look and occasionally a swat to the behind took care of everything. But back then they weren’t discussing life and death decisions. He needed to fix whatever caused Dean to go awry; he needed his son to understand that John’s rules were to be obeyed no matter what. It could be the only thing that kept Dean and Sam alive one day; the ability to listen and follow orders.

Dean had finally made his way over to John who was standing next to the dining room table. He looked up; his lip trembling. “I’ve never…you’ve never…” Dean struggled.

“Son you’ve never been in this much trouble and big trouble demands big punishment.” John explained. “Now if you are going to be this rebellious then you have to accept the penalties that go along with it. If you truly want to help when you get older then I have to know you will always listen to me and if you don’t there will be consequences.”

Dean nodded as his fingers clenched and unclenched.

John took his sons hands and placed them on top of the table about a foot apart. The child was so tense he reminded John of a surf board. He was sure he could bounce a quarter off the boy. He took one last deep breath and told Dean that it would go better if held still.

John had to force himself to keep his eyes open and to go forward with this. As much as wanted to drop the belt and pick up his son he knew this had to happen. He drew in a breath and unleashed his instrument of retribution. He gave 3 decisive blows and decided that was enough. Dean remained in position until John released him to his room. The two never made eye contact as the boy ran to the security of his bedroom.

TBC

nice job, please continue. man, john is a big old meany giving dean the belt at his age but i can totally believe that this was the way both boys were raised.

Great update! Poor Dean, I understand why John had to do it, but still I want to give the little guy a hug. I hope Dean has leanred his lesson. I can't wait to read more!

Thanks Brylan, yep it was a pretty heavy duty punishment, but the stakes or so high that I too think John raised them with a heavy hand.

Irishgirl thanks as always, I too hope Dean has learned his lesson but we know how hard headed he can be.

Dean's Little Adventure

At 5:00 John yelled to Dean that he was going to pick Sam up from the after school program. Dean remained silent.

“Daddy.” Squealed little Sammy as he raced across the gym to his father. “Is Dean better?” He immediately asked.

“I’m not really sure. You might want to leave him alone for a while.” John told his youngest son.

When they got home Sam plopped down at the dining room table and started his homework. He loved school even the homework part. John watched the little one arrange his crayons and pencils with care and couldn’t help but smile. His sons definitely differed in the school department. Getting Dean to do anything academically oriented was like pulling teeth. He began making dinner hoping that Dean was feeling better. He figured it would be a long night if he decided to sulk through it. He got the chicken breasts in the oven and the macaroni to a boil and thought he should check on his 10 year old. Sam had finished his work and was watching some ridiculous cartoon but it was eliciting laughter from the boy.

Dean was on his bed lying on his side facing way from the door. John walked around the bed until he faced his son. Dean was feigning sleep but an undeterred John sat down on the bed anyway.

“How are you feeling?” John asked with sincerity.

“I’m okay, I can handle anything.” Dean sniffed.

“Well aren’t you a tough customer? Do you understand why I came down on you so hard?” John asked.

“Because I have to learn how to listen and follow the rules.” Dean said.

“Exactly, I have to count on you to watch your little brother when I’m not around and you won’t be able to do that if you are out running in the night.” John said with a smile creeping across his lips.

Dean sat up and after some effort his eyes met his fathers. “I got it dad, I got the message. So when do we eat, its starting to smell good.”

Dean had been an angel for 3 weeks now, a new record John thought. After the grounding John had kept his end of the bargain and taken Dean out to an old obstacle course just outside of town. The boy ate it up; fatigue always seems to be a parent’s best friend. Sammy hadn’t said much about being in the left out of the mystery activity but that didn’t last long.

“Daddy where do you take Dean every day? I want to come too.” The 6 year old said as his lower lip stuck out. Usually this face worked on everyone every time.

“Dean and I working on some skills like running and jumping.” John explained.

“Me too, me too. I want to do that stuff.” Sam chanted.

“Well it’s kind of hard, even as big as Dean is, he struggles sometimes.”

But Sammy had been adamant so minus the reason they were all out there in the first place John loaded both his sons up and took them to Winchester Boot Camp. Sammy had fun for the first 5 minutes then decided it was too much work and sat down and complained the remainder of the session. John was actually happy it worked out that way as he could focus on Dean alone; Sammy was just too young for the truth and the effort that knowing it brought.

One Saturday John declared it Sammy day. He had been spending lots of one on one time with his eldest son and now it was Sammy’s turn. He promised the boy lunch a trip to the playground and a movie of his choosing. Dean bowed out saying it was Sam’s day he would stay behind. John had left him the homework of cleaning the shotgun; he of course made sure it was empty first. He also had all the ammunition locked up just in case Dean had any brilliant ideas.

Dean cleaned the shotgun and then watched TV for a while, but found himself bored out of his mind. He decided to take a walk to the river and back. He was enjoying the cool air and the sunshine and decided that after he got to the river he would run back to the house. His body had become stronger and faster in the last few weeks and he felt invincible. As he reached the river he saw a girl probably a year or two older than him screaming at an older boy. He held a bag that had something heavy in it. She continued to reach for the bag but the boy held it just out of her reach. The boy then tossed the bag into the river below and laughed as he ran off the pedestrian bridge. The girl looked below where the bag had entered the water; she swung one leg up to the railing in preparation of jumping. Dean yelled over to her that he would go. She put her leg down and Dean jumped into the cold water. He was swimming downwards in the spot where he thought the bag fell. He had no idea how deep the water was and hadn’t realized how cold it would be. The idea that he was invincible was starting to fade as his lungs began to hurt. He wasn’t sure how much longer he could stay under when he saw the trail of bubbles just ahead. He swam over and saw the bag hit the bottom causing dirt to float out and up. He grabbed what he now saw was a pillowcase and began to ascend as quickly as he could. Just as he thought he could hold his breath no more he broke the surface. He kicked as hard as he could while trying to hold the contents of the bag above the water. He finally reached the bank where the girl and a police officer were waiting. The officer helped pull Dean from the water and relieved him of the waterlogged bag. The girl took the bag and Dean finally saw the contents a young, but still alive blonde puppy. The pup was sneezing and shaking but was breathing. Dean collapsed in exhaustion at the cop’s feet.

TBC

Great update!!! :clap It figures that Dean would take to trainging the way a duck takes to water. I love that John had a Sammy day. I'm surprised that the youngest Winchester didn't insist that the his brother come with them. I guess he wanted his daddy allt o himself for a while. How could that rotten excuse for a human being throw a puppy in the river??? :angry: I'm glad Dean was able to rescue it. I just hope Dean's okay! I can't wait to read more!

Nice! I'm so proud of Dean for saving that little puppy (sammy will probably want to keep it). Hopefully once John finds out he'll open a can of whoop ass on the guy that threw it in the water. :bruce Keep going, I'm looking forward to the next chapter.

Brylan: Dean was a brave one even as a youngster. He was always selfless. They will have to keep the pup a secret from Sam.

Irishgirl: Hunting is in Dean's blood thats for sure. Sam just wanted his daddy to himself since Dean has had him all to himself. I work for an animal shelter and we see all kinds of horrors, unfortunately I see poor excuses for human beings everyday and their aftermath. Sometimes we save the day, but this time it was all Dean.


Sammy Takes Flight

John and Sammy had had a wonderful day, so much so that John knew it couldn’t last. And as he rounded the corner he saw that it hadn’t. The police car sat right in front of the house he and the boys shared. He grabbed Sam and ran through the front door bursting in and scaring even the police officer. Dean was sitting on the couch in dry clothes but a wet head.

“Are you the boy’s father?” The officer asked.

“Yes, what happened?” John asked as he set Sam down.

The adventure was told by the cop in great detail. The older brother of the girl was upset after the puppy had made a mess in his room and decided to take matters into his own hands. He had picked up for animal cruelty.

When they were alone John just sat and stared at his son. He then got up and paced through the house; he didn’t know what to feel. He knew he was scared, angry, proud and betrayed. While he was in the kitchen he spied Tina the 5 year old girl from next door in her yard with Pork Chop their Pug. Sammy loved playing with that snorting dog so he alerted Sam to their presence and closed the door behind his youngest son. He stood at the window and watched as his son frolicked with the stout beast.

He then turned his attention back to his eldest who had that familiar surfboard like posture.

“I’m sorry dad, but I couldn’t let that little girl down. I had to help save her puppy.”

“Did you even know what was in the bag?”

“No, I guess I didn’t.”

“What if it had been her diary; you could have risked your life for a book.” John said sternly. “I’m an animal lover; you know that, but what if you hadn’t made it back to the surface Dean? You could have died in that water. You didn’t know how deep or how cold that water was; you went in blind. Haven’t we gone over how important researching the job is? I am proud of what you did, but son, it really wasn’t very smart.”

“I didn’t listen, you told me to stay at home and I just went out for a short walk, but I didn’t listen. I’m sorry dad, but I would do it again if I had to. I would be even sadder if I stood there and did nothing.”

John stood there not knowing what to say; his boy was growing up too fast. “I must say it is good thing for that boy he was picked up by the police or I might have had to make a little visit to his house.” He said with a tight smile. He then looked down at Dean and handed out his punishment.
“No training this week; after school you will learn the finer points of research.” John said as he took three quick strides to his son. He pulled his son close and held him tight. “You have to do a better job of listening and obeying.” He finished as his right hand delivered two quick blows to his sons backside. He just didn’t have the heart for anything more.

They finished their talk and John went to check on Sam. He looked through the window at an empty backyard. Now what is all he could think? This is how it seemed to go, the boys would behave for a while and then it was constant problems. He had a feeling he knew what part of the cycle they were in. He told Dean he would be right back as he went next door and knocked on the door. Tina answered with Pork Chop at her heels.

“Is Sammy in there with you?” He asked peering into the living room.

“No Mr. Winchesta.” She lisped. “We was arguing and I told him he wasn’t big enough to jump off the swings at the playground. He said he was so we were going there so he could show me, but my mommy said I had to stay here.”

John thanked her and went to get Dean. He drove as fast as he could to the playground. There he was swinging as high as he could but before John or Dean could intervene Sammy jumped and went flying into the air.

“Samuel John.” Screamed John as he made his way to the lump that had crashed to the ground.

Sam was rubbing his knee but otherwise just fine.

“I did it daddy, did you see me fly.” The youngster asked beaming of his accomplishment.

“Yeah you did it, and now you’re going to get it.” John said as he pulled his son close.

Dean just stood there and smirked knowing he wasn’t the only that was going to deal with a punishment that day. Usually Sam just stuck his lip out and John only sent him to his room but Dean could see the terror in his father’s eyes as it was the same terror that they held only moments ago in the living room.

And he was right after John checked Sam out to make sure there were no other owies he swung the boy out in front of him and landed two quick smacks to the youngsters behind.

When they got home John sat a very upset Sam down on the couch while Dean was instructed to make some sandwiches for dinner. If he was quiet he could hear the conversation in the other room.

“Sammy you need to understand that you cannot just go off on your own. It is important that I know where you are at all times.” John explained.

Sam was sitting on the couch arms crossed and face scrunched up in distress. His cheeks were stained with tears. “You spanked me, daddy.”

John sighed and could see this wasn’t going well at all. “Son, did you just hear me? Do you know why I spanked you?”

“Cause I went flying.” Was the petulant response.

“No, because you went to the playground by yourself; you went without anybody taking you and you didn’t ask to go.”

“Oh, sorry; but I had to show her, I had to show Tina I could do it. I was gonna come right back and tell her I did it.” Sam pouted.

“Well I don’t want you do jump off the swings like that again; you could get hurt.” John said. The last thing he needed was Sam with a broken leg.

After dinner the boys planted themselves in front of the TV while John made a few phone calls. He was hoping he could hold out and be able to stay in this area until at least Christmas, Dean’s birthday would be even better. The house suited them and both boys liked the school. What he needed to figure out was how to keep these boys home. This new wandering bug that had bitten both of his sons needed to be curbed and soon. He absolutely could not have his kids out in the world by themselves.

TBC

Great update!!!! First Dean, know Sammy. I don't think John can take much more. I'm glad that Dean and the puppy are okay. I can't wait to read more!!!

Thank you Irishgirl I am glad you liked the update. I know, poor John if it isn't one thing its another.

Too Good To Last

The following 6 weeks went very well. The boys were wrapped up in the upcoming holiday. They were even making plans on getting a Christmas tree. There was a week left of school and the mood was upbeat. John had gotten each of the boys presents already and was quite proud of himself in the accomplishment.

By the end of the week the tree was up and the presents underneath. They had a great time decorating the short pine tree with paper chains and strings of popcorn. There were no fancy ornaments but it was theirs and they loved it. The boys were pretty hyper and excited and on John’s last nerve by Christmas Eve. He had nothing to hunt and was happy yet frustrated being stuck inside with his two lunatic sons. The weather had been cold and training with Dean had become hit or miss. He could tell Dean missed the activity with John and with no place to put his energy he began to focus on torturing his little brother. After a wrestling match ended with a cracked window and dented drywall John sent the boys to separate bedrooms meaning that Sam was crashed on John’s bed. By 10:30 both boys were asleep and John just enjoyed the peace and quiet.

The phone rang at 4:15 that morning and as John got up off the couch to find the phone his sons nearly ran him over in their effort to get to their presents. To their credit they did wait until John gave them a nod to go ahead.

John watched the ensuing chaos with a smile as he tried to listen to what Bobby was trying to tell him over the phone.

“John we need to meet; there’s a huge outbreak of spirit activity in a town called Oakford. A friend of mine was passing through there and said it is just crazy. It had been a quiet little town but all of sudden it seems to be infested. I’ve called a few others, but you would be a huge help.” Bobby finished.

“Bobby, first of all are you aware that it is 4:30 in the morning?” His question was met with dead air. “Also are you aware that it is Christmas morning and I am missing my kids opening their presents? I’ll call you back in 20 minutes and we can discuss the details.” John told him.

“We only opened one each daddy.” Sam said as he held up one of his new books.

John sat down in between his boys and tried to avoid being smacked with flying wrapping paper. In the end his boys loved their new things. They each received some new clothes; something that was always needed. Also Sammy got some new books, a new art set and a few easy to transport games. Dean’s prized possession was a walkman complete with several tapes to go with it.

The boys remained busy with their new items as John cradled the phone in his ear as he made pancakes. By the time the pancakes were done John knew that they had to hit the road. At least they made it to Christmas he thought. He would tell the boys later tonight about the upheaval and they could spend tomorrow packing up. He wasn’t looking forward to it at all.

John put the last of the bags down in the motel he had checked them all into. As he suspected the boys were none too happy about the move. At least they had some new stuff to keep them busy for a day or two.

He sat both the boys down and made them look him in the eye.

“Now you have to listen to me. It is very important that you both stay in this room at all times. I have to go out but I will be back okay? We are going to do something new this time. I have something very special that will keep you very safe since you be alone.” As John explained this he began pouring salt across the doorway and in front of the windows.

“Is that stuff like in my new book? Pippsy dust.” Sammy asked in earnest.

John couldn’t help but smile. “Yes son, it is just like pixie dust and as long as it stays just like this and you stay inside you will be just fine.”

“Okay.” Sam responded happily.

Dean on the other hand had a look of contempt on his face. “It’s just salt.” He whispered to his father. “If this stuff is so great why don’t I come with you, I can help a lot. Sam will be safe. I’ve had lots of training and can watch your back dad; I know I can. I’m not a baby.”

“I know you’re not a baby Dean. But do you remember when I told you it would be a long time even with training before you could go on a hunt?”

The boy nodded.

“I wasn’t kidding; you will be ready one day, just not yet. I need you to stay here with your brother; can you imagine what type of trouble he could find if you weren’t here?”

Dean turned and looked at his little brother who was busy flipping through the television stations.

“Now listen to me Dean; don’t even think about leaving this room. Don’t go out for any reason am I clear?”

“Crystal.”

“Okay, I’m not kidding if I find out you have disobeyed the punishment you received last time will hold no comparison to the one you will receive this time.” John let his words hang in the air.

He gave each of his boys a kiss on the head and took off into the night carefully stepping over the salt line.

Dean collapsed in the chair weighing his options.

TBC

Great update!!! :clap What a sweet Christmas. Too bad they have to move.

Sammy is too cute. I'm guessing he got Peter Pan for Christmas.

I hope Dean doens't do something that will get him in to trouble or even worse, hurt. I can't wait to read more!

Thanks Irishgirl, you're right Sammy got Peter Pan for Christmas. And you know Dean can stay down for only so long before he searches for and usually finds trouble. This section is a bit quiet but be patient remember Dean can't hold on for too long.

The Hunt Is On

John met up with Bobby, Caleb and Jeff all old buddies in the same line of work as he was. They explained the situation.

“We think that something must have been unearthed. There was nothing out of the ordinary until two weeks ago and all of sudden spirits began popping up everywhere. The population has been held captive in their own homes.” Bobby started.

“Could it be some kind of anniversary?” John inquired.

“Possibly, we just need to ask around and do some exploring. Where are the boy’s?” Caleb asked.

“At motel just outside town. I’ve got them salted in and threatened Dean within an inch of his life. They should be fine.”

“They are growing up so fast. Before long Dean will be joining us.” Jeff commented.

“He is already itching to.” John said.

“It was the same with my boy; he was ready for battle at the tender age of 12. It was never easy with him it was a constant fight to keep him safe. You want them to have the knowledge that will keep them safe, but once they know it they want to fight it just like their old man.” Jeff reminisced.

“I am in that same boat.” John said.

“Paul had some rough years let me tell you.” Jeff said with a chuckle as he tapped his belt.

John only nodded knowing full well that he would have to continue to use his for more than holding up his pants.

The men split up and canvassed the area to see what they could figure out about the pandemonium that had been unleashed in this town.

Dean sat and bobbing his head back and forth with the music. He was totally in his own world until Sam pulled the headphones off his head.

“What?”

“It’s dinner time.” Sam said. “I’m hungry.”

“Okay spaghetti-O what do you want?” Dean asked using his nickname for Sam. He began calling him that when Sam was 2. Spaghetti-O’s had always been one of Sam’s favorite meals and as a toddler whenever something bad happened he would always say “uh oh spaghetti-O.”

“Peanut butter and banana sandwich please.” The young one demanded.

Dean fixed them some grub and they both settled in front of the TV. As the time got later and later Dean’s mind wondered as to what his dad was encountering. He knew he was ready to battle anything out there; he was almost 11 already for goodness sake. Sam began getting tired and Dean read him one of his new books. By the last page the 6 year old was out cold.

Dean watched some more TV and then wandered over taking a good look at the salt lines. This was crazy, why would dad bring him if he couldn’t be a part of the fight. Because there was no place to leave them was the answer, but Dean wanted to believe his own reasoning.

As the men gathered again they each had a story to share.

Bobby started. “This woman hasn’t had a peaceful night in two weeks; says apparitions keep coming up from her basement. She has even gotten to the point where she has demanded that they tell her why they are there.”

“Any answers?” Jeff asked.

“This town is theirs and by God they are going to live here once again.” Bobby told them.

“I talked to a gentleman who said the area on the other side of the cemetery has been very active. It is where the town originally started. There was some kind of upheaval back in the day. Most of the activity takes place in the overnight hours but not all of it.” Caleb shared.

“Why don’t these people just leave?” Bobby asked.

“They don’t have much; just their homes and they are not going let anybody drive them away. Besides many of them have no place to go.” John said. “Apparently back in the 1800’s it was a lawless community full of prostitutes; gun slingers and just plain bad people. Then the town found its own Wyatt Earp and the good folks around here got themselves a nice to place to raise a family. It stayed that way up until now. I couldn’t find any dates that made any sense as to why there is this uprising; it must be something else and we need to figure out what that is and soon.”

John arrived back at the motel late and was quite relieved to see both of his boys sleeping soundly. He undressed showered and slid Sammy over a bit and climbed in next to him.

“So what is happening?” Dean whispered loudly in John’s ear.

“Dean shhhh, it’s only 6:30 don’t wake your brother.” John admonished his son.

“But I did everything you said you have to tell me what’s going on.”

“First of all you should do everything I say no matter what, because I said so not because you get something out of it. We are dealing with some vengeful spirits and that’s all you need to know.” John finished.

“They don’t like the salt right?”

“That’s right, now can I have a few minutes and some coffee before your brother is up?”

“Sure, are you going back today?”

“Yep hopefully this won’t take too long. The same rules apply today as yesterday Dean.”

Dean nodded but his mind was whirring.

TBC

Great update!!! :clap I'm guessing that Dean is trying to figure out a way to help his dad. Of course that can only lead to trouble. I like Sam's nickname. Too cute. I can't wait to read more!!!

Thanks Irishgirl. Dean is always wanting in on the action see what he gets himself into this time. I'm glad you like Sam's nickname I could just see Dean calling Sam that.

Dean Takes Charge

John once again met up with the rest of the gang. They had already been working on a plan as they didn’t have to spend the morning finding clean underwear for their kids and breaking up fights over who got the first bowl of Lucky Charms.

“My source just told me that the activity by the cemetery started after they had started digging for a new swimming pool.” Caleb announced.

“A swimming pool by a cemetery, how charming. How far did they dig?” Bobby asked.

“Not far the ground kind of collapsed apparently it is quite unstable over there; it may be over some old mining tunnels. I guess some were never mapped out that well.” Caleb said.

“How long do they think the tunnels have been there?” John asked.

“A long time; there hasn’t been mining around here for 150 years.” Caleb responded.

“Right about the time our town was in full swing.” John said. “The population was 350 after they cleaned house it was 295 so that means 55 people were run out of town or killed. Somehow if they were killed I doubt they were buried in the proper manner; and an old mine shaft would be a perfect dumping ground. Let’s get over there and see what we can see.”

The sun had been shining but the clouds were beginning to take over and a gloom began to take shape. The men were loaded with their supplies and very ready and knowledgeable to take on the entities that were hanging around. The men arrived at the site near the cemetery and the hole was large but not as deep as they had originally thought. The hooked up a couple ropes and John and Bobby worked their way down into the darkness while Caleb and Jeff stayed up top.

When they hit the dirt below them they looked to their left and right the flashlights picked up nothing but bones.

“How did they kill them all? Was it mass murder or did they wipe them out one by one?” Bobby asked.

“I don’t know, but they seemed to dump all the bodies down here. They must have quite a few on the law enforcement side and killed as many as they could. They didn’t have to worry about them coming back and causing problems.” John said. “Until now that is.”

“Plus it is quite the deterrent for any other unsavory characters that might want to bed down.” Bobby added.

“We need to start salting and burning before the entities discover our plans.” John said as he thought of his two sons and how antsy Dean had been that morning.

John finished up salting all the bones as Bobby went topside to get the accelerant. The quiet that they were experiencing did not leave John with a good feeling.

Dean was angry and feeling more defiant as the day went on. Who cares if dad hit him with the belt again; he was tougher than that. He wanted to see what a real ghost looked like up close. Sammy had been playing with some of his new matchbox cars as Dean spied some movement outside.

“I’ll let you play with my new boats if you take a bath right now.” Dean offered speaking of the battery powered boats he had gotten for Christmas.

“But can’t I just play with ‘em in the water?” Sammy asked.

“No, this way you can get your bath early so if dad comes home early you’ll be able to spend more time with him.” Dean said.

“Okay.” Sammy sighed.

Dean got the bathwater and boats all ready and made sure Sam was comfortable in the water before he began his plan.

Dean grabbed the bag of salt and looked out the window. He couldn’t believe it there were ghosts everywhere. Well more like 3 or 4 but Dean was ready or so he thought.

John’s unease was rising by the moment he and Bobby poured the accelerant over the remains. They were nearly done or so they thought when John banged into the dirt wall and it seemed to disintegrate showing even more bodies. He and Bobby were forced to go back for more salt. Caleb and Jeff were busy making the hole at the top bigger to allow more oxygen below. John felt a real need to rush.

Dean stepped over the salt line and closed the door behind him as he heard Sam making sound effects for the boats. The spirits flew around him and were laughing and teasing Dean. He grabbed handfuls of salt and began to toss it at the apparitions. As the salt found its mark the spirit disappeared making Dean quite proud. But every time one vanished another formed; Dean wasn’t able to keep up and all his confidence disappeared. He was trying to back up towards the door to the motel but was concerned for Sammy, what if one followed him in. The spirits were making him very cold and very scared. Dean was trying to remember an invocation that his dad had showed him but he didn’t remember more than a couple of words. Finally with only a handful or two of salt left he decide to try and bluff his way through with threats; they were empty threats but they were all he had.

“My dad showed me how to make you go away forever and I can do it, I can. My dad will be here soon and then you will be in trouble.” Dean shouted. His knees were practically shaking as he spouted these words; he would give anything to see his dad right about now. A spirit popped up right in front of him causing him to trip and fall backwards hitting his head on a concrete parking block. He forced himself to sit up but he was feeling very groggy. As his left hand reached to the back of his head he felt something sticky and his heart fluttered when he brought his hand back around and saw the blood coating his hand. He had to get back inside; dad was not going to be happy. He managed to maneuver so his back was to the door of their room and with a last toss of the salt he quickly unlocked the door and hopped over the salt line. He ran to the window as Sam stood dripping on the floor.

“You went outside. Dad said you was ‘posed to stay inside with me.” Sam said his voice full of concern. “Why is there red stuff in your hair?”

“He doesn’t have to know and he won’t if you don’t tell him. They’re gone, I made them go away.” Dean said excitedly forgetting momentarily about his injury.

“Who’s gone away?” Sam wanted to know.

“Nothing.” Dean recovered not wanting to scare his little brother.

Dean could hardly contain his excitement; he was the man and he took care of tons of spirits. He rinsed his hair out in the sink trying his best to ignore the pain. He found the aspirin in the first aid kit and swallowed two tablets. He held a washcloth to his cut and waited for bleeding to stop.

John and friends stood at the edge of the hole watching the entire thing go up in flames. It would probably smolder for quite a while, but it looks like they had a good burn. The mayor stood by with the group listening to the explanation.

“So when the hole was reopened it awoken them and let them back into our world?” Mayor Tildon asked.

“Pretty much, they came back and were unhappy about their untimely end. So they were taking it out on anyone they could; namely the current residents. Just make sure this burns completely; if you run into any other problems just salt and burn.” Caleb explained.

John quickly made his way back to the car and headed back to the boys. His stomach was churning relentlessly.

He pulled up just in time to see Dean pull his head back in the door.

He threw the door open glaring at his eldest son who was sitting on the bed with the biggest grin ever. John was like a loaded gun waiting to go off.

“Dad, I gots to tell you sumpin.” Sam said.

Dean pushed him away figuring he knew what was about to come out of his brothers mouth.

“I did it dad, I’m ready to hunt.” Dean declared.

Sam just sat there with a puzzled look on his face.

“Sam you stay right here and watch TV for a minute. Dean and I will be right back.” John told the youngster.

John pulled Dean outside by his elbow. “You know better than to talk about hunting in front of your brother. He isn’t ready for the truth yet and he has no reason to know it.” John exclaimed. “What happened to your head? You’re bleeding son, what did you do?”

“I got rid of the ghosts.” Dean said with pride.

“You went outside? You went outside when I specifically told you not to?” John yelled.

“Well yes sir, they were everywhere and I had the salt and I just kept hitting them with the salt and they kept coming and I kept throwing it and I told them they better leave and they did.” Dean said with satisfaction. He was just sure that his dad couldn’t possibly be mad since Dean was so brave and successful.

“Was this perhaps around 3:00 or so?” John asked.

“I think so.” Dean said trying to remember what was on TV.

“That’s the time we salted and burned the bones; they went into flames right around 3:00 so yes they would’ve disappeared.” John told his son.

“So it wasn’t because of me?” Dean asked totally deflated.

“No son, it wasn’t because of you. In fact you again put yourself in very perilous situation again. This time I wasn’t close by and you got hurt.”

“But you saved me again.” Dean said with a sheepish grin.

“Oh you’re going to need saving.” John said angrily.

TBC

Oh man, just getting caught up here. My heart is going out to John. He must be beside himself with young Sammy and Dean. Too funny. Dean my boy, you better sit now while you still can. I have a feeling it's going to be a while before you do so again comfortably. Keep going, I'm loving this.

Great update!!! :clap Oh Dean what is John going to with you. I hope Dean doesn't have a concussion. I can't wait to read more!!! :cheer

Brylan: Thanks glad you caught up. Poor John is right, to be a parent is difficult to be a single parent even more difficult to be a single parent hunting down evil...to crazy to comprehend. I don't think Dean spent much time on his butt during those 'tween years.

Irishgirl: Don't worry Dean has a hard head. In fact he still does; all those hits to the head and our boy keeps getting up.

Movin' On...Again



Dean was in the middle of a dream; the same dream he had the last two nights. He was standing in some kind of courtyard that contained a big clock; and for the 3rd night in a row the clock chimed 13 times. Dean sat straight up in bed trying to catch his breath. He looked over and saw that his dad was still out. Sammy was curled up in the bed next to him clutching the stuffed dog that John had gotten him for Christmas.

Dean hadn’t seen any training action or been given any explanation on John’s whereabouts since the vengeful spirit ordeal in which he disobeyed his father and tried to take on a multitude of spirits on his own. To say that John was unhappy and upset was the understatement of the year. Dean had needed seven stitches to close the wound on his head, but was otherwise fine. The punishment proved to be long term as Dean was now out of the hunting loop and it also carried a painful reminder of who the boss was in the family.

He was in yet another motel room stuck with his little brother trying to pass the time. The one good thing John had said was they wouldn’t be here long and Dean sure hoped that was true. As he sat trying to regain his composure before making the attempt to fall back asleep the door began to jiggle. Dean’s eyes grew wide and he hopped off the bed and stood next Sam and was about to wake him up in an effort to get him hidden when the door opened revealing his father.

“Why are you up?” John asked in a loud whisper.

“Couldn’t sleep.” Was Dean’s response conveniently leaving out his dream.

“Well get back in bed, we are hitting the road tomorrow.” John told him.

Dean climbed in bed next to Sammy and closed his eyes as he listened to his dad move around the room.

True to his word John packed everybody up and moved on down the road the next day.
He had gotten an offer from a friend to house sit for the remainder of the winter and John didn’t hesitate to take him up on it. He wanted to give the boys some stability back in their lives. They needed school and friends and some normalcy; maybe with these things in place Dean would settle down a bit.

John was well aware that Dean was entering his preadolescent years and no matter their lifestyle that would bring about big changes in his boy. He was not looking forward to it much as he recalled his own difficulties when he was that age. This reminiscing brought about a big sigh and more thoughts than he wanted to deal with at the moment.

After the bags were brought into their new house and the boys were fed John sat his two youngsters on the couch and explained the rules.

“Listen to me boys because this is important. We are guests in this home and we treat it and the contents with respect.”

“Tents? Where are the tents?” Sammy asked.

“Not tents, contents; it means the stuff in here; like the furniture.” Dean explained rolling his eyes.

John nodded and smiled. The house had 3 bedrooms but the boys chose share and they got busy moving the extra bed into the larger of the bedrooms. John was happy to see that Dean wasn’t ready to leave his brother in the dust even though he was nearly 11.

The boys slipped right into the local school without difficulties. Dean had a great teacher and she made him very welcome. Sam was received as if he had lived in town his whole life; first graders were great. John spent his days researching and brushing up on techniques. He had made clear to everyone that unless a hunt was close he would most likely stay clear of it. He needed to stay with his boys for now. Dean’s birthday was coming up next week and John wanted to plan a small party for him. If he could pull off Christmas and a birthday celebration he would feel some sort of accomplishment. He decided that it just might time to introduce Dean to the many uses of a knife. As much as he hated the possibility of it; Dean will need to know how to protect himself and Sam. He was often forced to leave them behind and it would give him a bit of confidence to know that Dean was somewhat competent with various weapons. A knife seemed like a good place to start, especially since he had the time to train him correctly on its use.

TBC

Great update! :clap Poor Dean having to get seven stitches. He should listened to his dad in the first place. I think it's sweet that John wants to have a party for Dean.

Once again Sammy cracks me up. :lol:

I can't wait to read more!

Irishgirl I'm glad you are liking the story. I love the feedback that you give me; it really helps me continue to think of what trouble these boys can find. John is trying so hard to give his boys a little bit of normalcy in their crazy lives.
Please let me know what you think about my question at the bottom.

Never A Dull Moment


He picked up the boys from school and headed over to the small sporting goods store on the guise of picking up some new things for himself. He instructed Dean to watch his little brother carefully while John perused the glass case in search for the perfect gift.

Dean was not thrilled about having to wait around and watch Sammy. He picked up a magazine and began to flip through it completely ignoring the 6 year old. Sam noticed Dean’s lack of attention and quickly moved towards the other end of the store where his dad was talking with a salesman.

“You say he’ll be 11 and you both do a lot of hunting?” The salesman asked.

“Yeah, this will be a kind of coming of age gift for him.” John said.

“These over here would be fine choices for the lad.” The man told John.

Sam hovered nearby listening in on the conversation. He wanted a knife too; if Dean could get one he should get one. Deciding that his dad would never buy him one and that he couldn’t until he was a big boy like his brother he would just have to take matters into his own hands. He quietly slipped around to another display area where there were smaller pocket knives. They weren’t as cool as the ones his dad was looking at but they were still knives and easily accessible. The youngster looked around and swiped one right off the shelf and made it at home in his coat pocket. John was engrossed in his choice and Dean was still half reading and half pouting at the other end of the store. A smile crept across his face as he realized he had something before Dean did.

That night he went into his bedroom while Dean was in the tub and John was busy in the kitchen. He pulled out his prize possession and turned it over and over in his hands. He tried to pull it apart but the knife was stiff and his little hands struggled. He continued to try and finally was successful as the knife came open, but in the process he nicked his hand causing a small cut to his finger. The sight of the blood caused the young one’s heart to pound and breathing to become rapid. His eyes grew wide at the site of the blood leaking from his finger. His first instinct was to run to his dad, but he realized he couldn’t do that not without giving himself up.

Dean walked in the room and began searching for his sweatpants and a t-shirt when he saw his immobile brother holding his hand.

“What did you do?” Dean asked as he rushed to his brother’s side.

Sam remained quiet but as Dean kneeled in front of his brother his foot hit the offending pocket knife. “Where did you get this?” Dean asked not recognizing the small weapon. “Was it in the house? Is it the owner of the house, because then you shouldn’t touch it, it’s not yours.” Dean admonished his brother.

“It is too mine.” Sam stated.

Dean looked around for something to put over Sam’s finger. He found a sock lying on the floor and used it to put pressure on the small cut. “How did you get a knife; you’re too little dad would never give you one.”

“I got it myself because I am as big as you are.” Sam stated with his lower lip protruding.

“Did you….did you take this from the store today?” Dean asked already knowing the answer.

Sam tried to remain confident about his deed but it suddenly hit him that he was a thief.
“Don’t tell daddy, please don’t tell daddy.” The little boy begged.

“Don’t worry I won’t I’d be in trouble too.” Dean said.

Sammy just cocked his head.

“I was supposed to watch you, remember?” Dean said getting in Sam’s face.

Satisfied the bleeding had stopped he snuck into the bathroom and grabbed the alcohol and a band aid and slipped back into the bedroom.

“Now this is going to hurt, but you have to be a big boy and not cry out.” Dean explained. “Here put your face into the pillow; you can cry into that if you want to.”

Dean poured some of the alcohol onto the sock and then put it over the small cut. Sammy kicked his feet and grunted into the pillow. Dean blew on the wound and when it was dry placed the band aid over the site.

“Now you can’t let dad see it or he will wonder how you cut yourself. Tomorrow afternoon you can tell him you cut it on some scissors at school.”

“You’re smart Dean.” A tearful Sam said.

Sam decided bed was the safest place for him and his wounded finger so Dean got him situated and was ready to get John to tuck him in when he heard his voice.

“What’s going on boys?” John asked with a smile. “In bed already Sammy?”

“I’m tired tonight daddy.” Sam said as he ensured that his hand stayed beneath the covers.

Dean looked down and saw the knife and bloody sock and quickly kicked them into a pile of dirty clothes next to the wall. He saw that John hadn’t noticed the action.

First thing in the morning Dean reminded Sam about keeping his finger hidden and Sam nodded, but by the time he was halfway through his cereal he heard his father ask what happened to his finger. Sam just froze and looked to Dean for help.

“He ah, he ah cut it on a glass last night. He was thirsty so I got him a glass of water in the middle of the night and he dropped the glass and cut his finger. It didn’t look bad so I put a bandage on it myself. I didn’t want to wake you up.” Dean said proud of his quick thinking.

“Guys don’t ever hesitate to wake me up. If you need something and I’m here then come get me; I won’t be mad.” John said.

Yeah right Dean thought.

“Where’s the broken glass? You really shouldn’t have tried to clean the glass yourself son.”

Dean panicked for a moment but quickly regained his composure. “I took it to the can outside so nobody else would get cut. It only broke into a couple of pieces.”

“I was going to wait, but since you did so well last night I tell you now that you can have a few of your friends over for pizza and a movie for your birthday.” John told Dean.

“Really, I can. I’ll invite Casey and Chris and Brian. Can I have a cake too dad?” Dean asked with excitement.

“You bet, just let me know what flavor.”

John dropped his sons off at school and told them they could walk the 4 blocks home since the weather was going to be sunny and in the 40’s that afternoon. The fresh air and exercise would help get a bit of that energy out.

He was in good spirits thinking about how grown up Dean was becoming; taking charge of his brother like he did last night. He was quite proud. But alas the moment was not to last as John made his way to the boys’ bedroom. John scooped up the dirty laundry off the floor and as he tossed it into the basket he saw the bloody sock on top of the pile. That was odd, where did that come from. It must have been in the bathroom and Dean grabbed it for Sam’s finger; though he didn’t remember a stray sock in there before he went to bed. As he carried the clothes to the washing machine he continued to ponder over the sock. Something seemed off with this scenario but he didn’t want to believe anything other than what Dean had told him. But after he had placed all of the clothes into the washer he found something odd remaining at the bottom of the basket; a small pocket knife. John’s shoulders fell as he realized that one of his precious little ones must have stolen it from the store yesterday. He hoped that maybe they just found in the house and instead of bringing it to him they played with it and Sammy’s injury happened. John would have been disappointed with those actions but much less so than if either one of his boys stole the knife.

After the washer was chugging along he stepped outside and lifted the garbage can lid and looked inside; no broken glass to be found anywhere. He knew his good fortune was too good to last damn it.

John planted himself on the couch at 3:30 waiting for his darlings to come home. He tried to keep an open mind trying not to place blame on either one of his boys until he could find out the truth.

TBC

I need some advice. I have one more section in this story line. But since I have a tendency to write ahead I have more where the boys are older. I have one brief adventure and then have started another story where Dean is 13 and Sam 9. Should I begin a new thread or just stick with the current one?
All opinions will be considered and thanks in advance. SB

Loved it! Maybe have John address the stolen item thing in a flashback that 13 year old Dean recalls after seeing 9 year old Sammy take something again? Then you could segway into your new story. Looking forward to it! Keep going!

Great update!!!! Once again Sammy is too cute. He reminds me of my nephew. When he was 5 my nephew stole a pokemon figure from a store. My sister took it back and made him apologize to the sales clerk. My nephew did and then he told the lady that it never would have happened if she had a pocket checker at the door to check people's pockets as they left. :lol:

I hope John isn't too mad at his boys and doesn't cancel Dean's party.

If your new story is related to this one them I say post it in this thread. If it's not related to this one then maybe you should make a new thread.

I think you're missing the word wait in this sentence.

I can't wait to read more!

I like Brylans idea...umm I think you could keep it in this thread though. Because if it deals with the everyday stuff like you have so far rather than one specific storyline that is based on a particular hunt or event etc, then I think it would make sense to keep it in here. Obviously just state thats its a jump ahead to when they're older and you could use flashbacks etc too if you wanted like suggested :)

Brylan your transition idea is fabulous. I do already have a bit of that in the next story but I may change some and emphasize it more. Thank you!

Irishgirl I'm glad Sammy is coming across as I had hoped. The things kids will talk themselves into. You're right I did miss a word. I should have you do my proofreading. ;)

Kezzie it's great to hear from you. I think you're right since it does just deal with normal everyday stuff (everyday for the Winchester family) I think I will just keep going.

Thanks everybody for the suggestions. :D
Hope you guys like this conclusion.

No Rest for the Weary


The door opened revealing two rosy cheeked breathless boys. They saw John on the couch and the knife on the coffee table. Dean mentally smacked himself in the head. How could he have forgotten to take care of the evidence? Some hunter he would make if he couldn’t remember to cover his tracks better than that. Sammy had just stopped in midstride. Dean looked down at him and had a feeling he knew how this was going to end up.

“Do you want to explain yourselves?” John offered.

The boys set their backpacks down and took their coats off delaying the conversation for as long as they could.

“Today boys.” John said. He pointed for Dean to sit in the chair across from him and for Sammy to sit next to him. He looked at his 6 year old and began with him. “Is this what cut your finger?”

Dean began to answer. “Dad….”

“I asked your brother.” John snapped at his oldest son. “Sam tell me the truth.”

Little Sammy looked like he was going to cry any second. Dean took a breath and was prepared to speak again but a fierce look from John stopped him.

“I, I cut my finger on the knife.” Sam spit out.

“Where did you get the knife?” John asked.

“I found it.” The little one said.

Dean couldn’t help but be impressed the way his little brother was skirting the truth without lying. But he couldn’t take it anymore he had to step up.

“I took from the store yesterday dad and Sammy found it. I’m sorry.” Dean stammered.

John looked at Sam who just sort of shrugged.

“Go to your room Sam.” John ordered.

The 6 year old took off like a bat out of hell.

John just sat there deep breathing. “How could you Dean? You know better than that. You want to be treated like a young man then you pull a stunt like this. I am so disappointed I don’t even know what to say.”

“I’m sorry dad, I screwed up.”

“You certainly did. You’re grounded indefinitely, and there will be no party, get your coat back on while I get Sam you’re taking the knife back to the shop owner and apologizing.”

Dean just wanted to cry. He put his coat on and went outside to wait. He was so mad, he was mad at himself and at Sam. Why couldn’t he have just made it to his birthday, now he had to tell the guys that there was no party. He kicked the step as hard as he could; his life was so unfair.

When the Winchesters arrived at the store they saw a sign in the window saying there had been a family emergency and the shop would be closed until further notice.

“We’ll keep checking back until he reopens.” John promised as he looked down at Dean.

“Yes sir.” Dean answered.

The next several days were tough for Dean. His dad was gruff with him and that look of disappointment crept through on a regular basis. Sam just froze around him and hadn’t said more than a word or two. And on top of that he was still having that weird dream where the clock chimed 13 times. He didn’t fit in anywhere, even if tried to do the right things they ended in disaster for him. Try and take bullets to his dad - get in trouble; save a puppy - get in trouble; try and get rid of ghosts - get in trouble; protect his little brother - get in trouble. He couldn’t win for nothing. His dad led this big exciting life that one day he would too but he couldn’t tell anybody and now he couldn’t even secretly train for that life. Would his dad ever trust him again? What the hell was he doing wrong or should say was he doing anything right. Tomorrow would have been his party and his heart was just aching that it wouldn’t be happening; heck his dad probably wouldn’t even say happy birthday to him. Maybe the clock chiming 13 was telling him that he didn’t fit in anywhere. It was that thought that put the boy over the top and caused his shoulders to heave and tears to flow.

Sam walked quietly into the bedroom to get his spelling workbook when he saw Dean crying. He couldn’t see his face but he knew his big brother was very sad because of his punishment; the punishment he should’ve received. Sam had felt terrible all week but just couldn’t muster the courage to confess to his father. He knew if he did he would get a bad spanking and that scared him. He still clearly remembered the one he received in the park months ago. But he could no longer stand the agony his brother was enduring on his behalf.

“Daddy.” Sam said as sweetly as he could.

“Yeah bub?” John asked as he reviewed his exorcism notes.

“I hafta tell ya something that will make you mad at me.”

“What Spaghetti-O?” John queried using Dean’s nickname for the boy.

“I stole the knife at the store. It was me, Dean lied to protect me, cause he thought he would be in twouble for not watching me better and he felt bad I hurt myself. But he didn’t do it daddy and he feels so bad he’s crying cause he won’t have his party.” Sam finished.

John just sat barely able to take in what his young son told him. “So why didn’t you tell me the truth earlier? Why did you let Dean get punished for what you did wrong?”

“Cause I didn’t want to get in twouble; I didn’t want spanked.” Sammy said as tears began to brim and overflow.

“Are you telling me the truth now or do you just feel badly for Dean?”

“It’s the truth daddy, I’ll even…” the boy hesitated trying to come up with the words, “take my punishment like a man.”

John went in to get this new story confirmed with Dean but found the boy was already asleep. He let the boy rest and went back to deal with his new wild child.

John had his youngest repeat the story to ensure accuracy and believability. He lectured Sammy about how important it was to tell the truth no matter what and how it wrong it was to steal just because you wanted something. Sammy’s fears were then realized as the dreaded spanking took place. Afterwards John scooped up his son and held him tightly rocking his sobbing body back and forth all the while thinking how selfless Dean had been with his false confession. The boy will most definitely cause John disappointment, anguish, anger and terror but in his heart the almost 11 year old was already a man.

The next day John put his plan into action. He ran his errands as early as he could and made his phone calls in the privacy of the bedroom. When things were where they needed to be he sent Dean on an errand to the nearby store.

Dean was still mad at the world and was taking out his frustration out on a rock that he had been kicking all the way home. He did learn one thing; he had to cover his tracks better when he was a hunter he couldn’t be sloppy like this and be successful. He stopped in front the house not really wanting to go inside but the bag he had been carrying was getting heavy. He was especially angry that dad had even bothered to say happy birthday when he told him to run to the store. He walked in the door and nearly collapsed as he saw what was before him.

There were balloons everywhere and a banner spelling out Happy Birthday Dean was taped to the wall. His 3 buddies were there bearing gifts and standing with them were a smiling John and Sammy.

Thank you so much for your ideas. I really appreciate them. This is the conclusion of this section and I will then throw in what I’ll call a bonus chapter. That will give me a day to polish and transition the next part in. Thanks to all the readers and I hope you find the next chapters as enjoyable as the previous.

The story will remain on this thread.

Okay gang here is a little dedication to the crappy weather my area experinced late last week. Our boys can find trouble absolutely everywhere.
I will begin the next story tomorrow or the next day.
Thanks to those that have read my story and I can only hope that I can continue to keep your interest.
Comments are always appreciated.

Snow Day

A cold wind was blowing but 12 year old Dean and 7 year old Sam were oblivious to it as they were busy throwing snowballs at each other and at their father. John was trying to shovel the driveway so he could get the car out to make a run to the store. They were in Minnesota this time and John helping a friend deal with a poltergeist. The cabin they were in was near a small lake and the boys were having a blast sliding on the ice and playing in the recent snowfall.

“Listen guys.” John commanded. “I have to run to the store and get a few things. The warm up we had a few days go made the ice too dangerous to stand on so stay off the lake. You can play in the yard or go inside but once you go in stay in. I should be back in 30 minutes or less so be good.”

The boys tossed snow in the air and giggled at the swirling flakes. Dean was growing up but he was still very much a boy especially in situations like these. The boys tried to make a snowman but the snow was too dry and their attempts just fell apart before taking shape. Dean pulled a sled out of the small shed and Sammy ran over to it and jumped into the middle of it causing it to move forward. Dean kept tossing snow at his brother as Sammy continued to move forwards towards the lake. Dean threw his body backwards into the powder and moved his arms and legs making a snow angel. He laid there until he heard Sam scream out for him. Dean jumped up and saw that Sam was standing on the lake with the sled at his side.

“What’s wrong?” Dean screamed back as he began to move towards the lake.

“I’m on the ice Dean and I think I heard it crack.” Sam yelled back.

“Don’t move Sammy.”

Dean ran over to the edge of the lake but couldn’t see anything with the covering of snow on top of the ice. He had a million thoughts racing through his mind but realized he had to remain calm if he was going to help his brother.

“Stay there Sammy, don’t move I’ll be right back.” Dean assured.

Dean ran as fast as the snow would allow. He pulled the door to the shed open and began to throw things around in his search for a rope. He tossed a garden hose behind him but heard it hit something hard.

“What are you doing?” John questioned looking at the hose that had just hit him.

“Sammy’s out on the ice and he said he heard it crack; I’m trying to find a rope.”

John looked across the yard to the small figure alone in the snow. He grabbed the hose and took off at a full run. Dean followed behind as fast as he could.

“Sammy I’m going to throw you one end of this hose and I want you to grab it and tie it around you.” John commanded.

Sam reached out and picked up the hose and wrapped it around his waist.

“Tie it in a knot like you do to your shoelaces.” John instructed.

Sam did as he was told dropping his gloves in order to tie the hose. He tied it once and then again as John explained. He bent back down to retrieve his gloves when CRACK the ice began sliver in every direction and Sam slipped into the frigid water. John held the hose tightly as he screamed for his youngest son. Dean paced back and forth behind his father and then reached out and grabbed the remaining hose behind John. John backed up and pulled praying that Sam had tied the knot well. Sam’s head popped up to the surface and the freezing water felt like thousands of needles jabbing him all over. He felt his lungs collapse and all his air escape. He tried to bring air into his lungs but he could only cough. John pulled and Sam slid up onto the surface ice again. Sam felt frost form on his eyebrows and eyelashes and his teeth began to chatter uncontrollably. John pulled as fast as he could and Sam’s body seemed to stay just in front of the breaking ice. Finally a half frozen boy and a terrified father were reunited.

John carried the boy into the house and yelled to Dean to fill the bathtub up with hot water and to throw some blankets and towels into the dryer. John began pulling wet clothes off the 7 year old as Dean ran around accomplishing the tasks that had been barked to him. Sam couldn’t stop shivering and John was scared he was going to drop the shaking boy on the way to the bathroom. He felt the water and decided it was warm enough without being too hot. He slid Sam into the tub and splashed the water up and over the boy over and over. Sam seemed to recover somewhat by the time the water turned tepid.

John continued to move on autopilot as he helped Sam out of the tub and wrapped a warm towel fresh from the dryer around his son. By bedtime Sam had on warm pajamas, socks and hot soup in his belly. His temperature seemed to be normal and John finally exhaled.

“So you want to explain yourselves?” John asked freezing both of his sons in their spots on the couch.

“I jumped on the sled and it just kept going. I hit the embankment and slid down onto the lake. I’m sorry daddy.” Sam said his big brown eyes glistening with tears.

“What part of stay away from the lake did you not understand, and Dean why weren’t you watching him better?” John demanded.

“I guess I was doing my own thing. I didn’t think that the sled would go that far.” Dean said trying to stay strong in front of his brother and father.

“I shouldn’t have trusted you outside by yourselves. I thought you could handle it but apparently I was wrong.” John said shaking his head.

“Dad it was my fault. I’m so sorry I should’ve stayed with him, I just thought…” Dean drifted.

“You didn’t think, you just turned 12 Dean and Sammy is only 7 you have to take charge of the situation. I’m counting on you; it may not be fair but when I am not around you are the man of the house. Now go to bed, we’ll talk more tomorrow.”

Dean gave Sam a sad look and slowly made his way to the bedroom he shared with Sammy. He sat on the bed and shook his head knowing he had disappointed his father again and it nearly cost Sam his life again.

John just looked at Sam who was trembling again, but this time it was out of anxiety instead of the cold.

“It wasn’t Dean’s fault; I took off on the sled. I didn’t mean to go onto the ice it was an accident.” Sam pleaded his case.

“You have to listen Sam; that accident could have cost you your life. I don’t know if Dean would have been able to get you out of the water.” John said as he picked his boy up and put him in his lap as the tears began to overflow.

Forget hunting parenting was going to be the death of him.

Will begin new stuff soon.

Great updates!!! :clap I loved both of them. As soon as I heard John say to stay away from the ice, I knew they would end up there. I'm glad Samy was rescued and has hurt. I can't wait to read more from you!

Here we go with Part II. The boys are now 13 and 9. I hope you like it.

Sammy Learns the Truth

Sam was sitting on his bed playing with the small pocket knife that he always kept close. It was a long story but one that would always remind him of what lengths Dean would go to protect him; of how no matter what odds the world dumped on them they were brothers forever. But he was shaken out of his reverie as his father had just handed him a gun a .45 to be exact.

Sam just sat there looking at the gun. When his friend Ryan told his dad he was afraid of something he reassured him everything was just fine and went through a big production of checking the closets, under the bed and outside the window; he did not hand him a gun.

He would be just like Dean now; sleeping with a weapon under his pillow. Sam knew it would have to be a pretty bad monster for him to ever fire that gun. He was now 9 years old and Dean was 13. It seemed the older the boys got the more Dean gravitated towards John and the more Sam gravitated away from John.

They had found a rental house for the summer. Sam finally knew the truth about their lifestyle. The previous Christmas he had found his fathers journal. Dean gave him the abbreviated version, but Sam wanted to know more. He felt like he had no idea who his father really was. He so desperately wanted to know the truth but once he learned what it was he despised knowing it. He wasn’t all gung ho in excitement about hunting like Dean was. He just yearned for normalcy, and that was becoming more of problem every day.

He knew that John had given him the gun because Sam had approached him the journal only a day before.

“What does all this stuff mean dad?” Sammy had asked as his hands gripped the journal.

“Where did you get that?” John demanded.

“I found it. You leave us alone in these boring, little rooms what else am I going to do but look around.” Sam answered back.

“Did you read it? Did Dean know you found it?”

“Yes I read some of it and no Dean had no idea I found it. He was sleeping when I found it.” Sam lied for his brother; returning a favor from years ago when Sam had stolen the aforementioned knife.

John just stood shell shocked not quite sure what to say. He kept running his hand through his hair and staring at the journal like it might have some ideas for him.

Dean walked in the door and sensed the mood he immediately turned and walked back out.

“That was my personal property and even if you did find it you had no right to read any of it. There are things in that book that you aren’t ready to know; things that you can’t understand yet.” John explained.

“Like mom dying? That there are monsters out there, under beds, in closets and in the dark; if you know these monsters exist then why do you leave me and Dean alone all the time?” What if were not safe; don’t you want to keep us safe? Mom wouldn’t leave us, she would be right here with me and Dean not out in the night all the time.” Sam yelled.

John took several deep breaths in an effort to calm down. “I make sure you and Dean are safe. I am aware of what is around us and Dean knows what to do if anything happens. You have to understand Sam that I can’t just walk away from the evil that took your mother by hunting it down I am protecting you.”

“Yeah salt and the fact that Dean can hit a target makes me feel so much better.”

“Salt does help and Dean has been training since before he was 11. I don’t have a lot of choices right now Sam you just have to bear with me.”

“It’s not like I have a choice anyway.” Sam said as he ran to the door making sure it slammed behind him.

John just sat down the bed trying to keep his emotions in check. He was damned if he did and damned if he didn’t.

TBC

Great update!!! :clap So Sam never got a chance to return that pocket knife or is it another one? It's so sad tht John adn Sam started to pull away from each other,

Hi, great update... you have written the father son relationship between Sam and John so well. Trying to show both sides....

Irishgirl: Thanks as always. It is the very same knife, in the chaos it was never returned. Now Sam holds it as a reminder of their strong relationship.

Aripage: I'm glad you left a comment I really appreciate it. Johns struggles with his youngest have begun. It's not easy for daddy Winchester either.


The Winds of Change

The next day Sam’s training began. Dean had been in training for over 2 years already and loved it; but Sam was not Dean.

“Since you now know what is out there you need to learn how to defend yourself from it.” John explained roughly.

Sam had moped all morning and now that they were in the field outside town his mood was deteriorating as was Johns.

“Let’s go Sam pick up your speed.” John yelled as Sam tried to keep up with Dean as they ran the outskirts of the field.

“Come on Sam you can keep up.” Dean encouraged as he slowed down a little in an effort to keep Sam close.

“I hate this Dean.” Sam huffed.

“I know, but it gets easier; you can do it Sammy.”

After the run they worked on marksmanship and Sam didn’t care for that much either. He looked over at Dean who using live rounds and obviously enjoying himself and just shook his head. John gave Sam a pellet gun and showed him how to aim. Sam squeezed off a few rounds with the pellets hitting in the vague area of the target but it was apparent that his heart wasn’t in the task. John seemed to boil with fatigue and frustration.

“Sam you have to try, I am not going to waste my time out here.” John told his youngest son.

“Then take me back to motel and I’ll just wait for you there.” Sam snapped.

John grabbed his youngest son by the back of his shirt and hauled over by the car so they would not disturb Dean.

John got down on his knee so he could look Sam in the eye. “Now listen to me son, I will not tolerate that attitude from you. When I tell you to do something you will do it whether you like it or not. You wanted to find out the truth well this is it so you need to suck it up and learn how to protect yourself.”

Sam had a million snotty answers he wanted to tell his dad, but John had that scary look in his eyes so Sam said nothing he just looked at the ground.

“Now here’s the deal you will march back over there and you will shoot that gun and will hit that target. We are not leaving until you do.”

Sam reluctantly went back and let John show him how stand and aim. He tried this time just so he could get out of there. After some effort Sam accomplished what John wanted and they packed up and went back to the motel. Sam said a total of two words the remainder of the night.

The next morning didn’t start off any better than the previous day had ended.

“Hurry up and eat Sam.” John pushed.

“I don’t want to train today dad.” Sam whined.

“I’m sorry for that, but you have no choice. Pretending evil doesn’t exist won’t make it go away. You need to be ready; I need you to be ready.” John told him.

Back out in the field John had the boys run some laps to warm up and then began to show Sam how a compound bow worked. Sam made a small effort to appear interested but once he was told to try it things went awry. Sam couldn’t seem to hold it right and wasn’t interested in John’s corrections. The bow was specifically designed for use by children and the pull was set up for a child Sam’s size; but Sam couldn’t seem to get to the right motion. The arrows would go straight up or the arrows would hit the ground a few feet away. John’s frustration began to surface.

“You have to try Sam; we can do this all day it’s up to you.” John snapped.

Sam turned and let an arrow half heartedly fly; it wobbled through the air and whooshed about 2 feet to the left of Dean. Dean who had been adjusting his own bow saw the arrow out of the corner of his eye and tripped over his own feet as he reacted to the object in his air space.

Sam’s eyes grew wide as he realized his intentional incompetence nearly injured Dean.

John had a complete meltdown.

At first he stood still replaying what he just saw in his mind. Then he ran to Dean to ensure that the boy was alright. Then he set his sights on his youngest son.

“Dad I’m fine, really I am. It’s okay it was just a mistake.” Dean rallied on his brothers behalf.

“Get in the car Dean.” John ordered.

Dean’s eyes pleaded with his father but John pointed and Dean jogged to the car fearful for what was going to happen to Sam.

John exploded hurling his disappointment directly at his young son. “How could you be so irresponsible and so careless? Do you know how badly you could’ve hurt Dean or anybody else that is around? This is important son and you are treating it like a joke. Like it don’t like it, but when you are out here you will do what needs to be done and you will do it the first time.”

Sam just stood wide-eyed absorbing his dad’s tirade as best as he could.

“I want you to run a lap around the field. Do it now with no argument.” John instructed.

Sam took off with no disagreement. John really needed this time to cool down. He saw his hands were shaking. His brain was buzzing and he was scared to death. He was scared for what had just taken place and he was scared that he and Sam were only growing farther and farther apart. He quickly began picking up their items and handed them to Dean who met him halfway. They were stowed in the trunk and Dean leaned up against the car; his color finally returning to normal.

“Are we going to leave when Sam gets back?” Dean asked hopefully. He too noticed the defiance that had been creeping into Sam. Two of the most stubborn people he knew; his father and brother were going to have a long future together if something didn’t change.

“No.” Was the only thing John said.

Dean looked down at his shoes having a good idea what Sam was in for when he returned. He himself had been there a few times and he hated it every time.

Sam came back breathless. John handed him a bottle of water and let him cool down for a moment. Sam collapsed sitting on the ground knowing what was coming next.

Dean looked away wincing as each blow hit its mark. He knew how hard it was for him in that position and he knew it had always been even harder for Sam.

Eventually Sam climbed into the car the tears still freshly falling from his eyes.

“I’m sorry Dean.” He sobbed.

“It’s okay little brother. But you need to do yourself a favor and just do what dad asks; he is not going to give up. You have to learn how do this stuff whether you like it or not.”

Sam managed to nod as he sniffled and wiped his eyes.

TBC

Yeah! I'm loving this! This is exactly how I picture things going down between John and his boys. Awesome job, just fantastic. Keep going.

Great update!!! :clap It was sad that John had to be that hard on Sam, but I guess he was making sure his youngest could handle himself come what may. I can't wait to read more!

Brylan thank you; I am so glad that you can picture the events. It's just so great that you are liking the story. Hopefully I can keep it up. Also I love your Avatar - great picture of JDM.

Irishgirl poor John had to be tough on Sam. He has to learn to pay attention so he doesn't accidently kill Dean. John needs Sam to be serious or he may never get the chance to grow up.

Pool Party

The next couple of weeks went fairly smoothly as Sam had become much more compliant in his training. He put the effort in and it was showing. Dean knew it would only last so long; that Sam’s heart wasn’t truly in it, but he would enjoy the harmony while it lasted.

John was very pleased in Sam’s achievements and told him as much.

“You are doing great Sam; see what you can do when you try?” John beamed.

Whenever Sam did begin to stray John instituted push-ups or sit-ups as punishments. Both the boys were becoming stronger as the weeks progressed and this progress gave John a bit of optimism that the future would develop as he hoped.

One morning Dean was outside looking through the car for something when a girl his age cleared her throat behind him.

“Hi, I’m Josie. I live down the road a couple of miles. I’ve seen you around and thought I would come introduce myself.” She said.

“Hey, my names Dean; we just moved in earlier this summer.”

“Like I said I live down the road and some friends and I are having a pool party this Saturday and I was wondering if you might like to come? It would give you a chance to meet some people before school starts.”

“I’m not sure if my dad will let me, plus I’ll probably have to watch my little brother.”

“How old is he?”

“Sammy’s 9.” Dean told her.

“Cool, my brother Cory is 10; they’d get along great I’m sure of it. Do you have a pen?”

Dean looked into the car shifting things around until he found a pen.

“Here ya go.” He offered.

Josie took the pen and wrote her phone number on Dean’s hand. “Ask your dad and give me a call. My dad can pick you up if you need a ride.”

Josie hopped back on her bike and pedaled off. Dean just stood there staring after her.

“Who was that?” Sam asked.

“Beauty in human form.” Dean said.

“What?” Sammy said looking down the road. He just shook his head and followed his brother inside.

Before Dean could even hint about the pool party John announced that he had to take off for a few days and felt quite confident in leaving the boys behind on their own. Dean was thrilled as the pool party truly seemed like a strong possibility. Sam was thrilled because he wouldn’t have to train for a few days.

“But dad said we couldn’t go anywhere but the yard and the store. This could be some sort of test or something. He may leave and come back and see what we do.” Sam said.

“Since when do you care what dad wants?” Dean retorted.

“Since two weeks ago. I don’t know how you handle it so well, but I don’t and I’ve done my part to avoid going through it again any time soon so count me out.” Sam stated.

“I can’t leave you alone you have to come. Please Sam it would mean a lot to me. I’m sorry about your punishment and you can just say it; you got your ass beat. I don’t like it either but its mind over matter; you have to learn to deal with the pain. The things we’ll be hunting will hurt us a lot worse than dad’s belt.”

Friday morning John packed up and lectured the boys about his expectations making his desires perfectly clear. Both nodded compliantly but Sam kept shooting looks at Dean.

On Saturday Sam continued to rally against leaving the house. “Dean I still don’t think this is a good idea.”

“Relax Spaghetti-O we deserve to have some fun. If dad happens to show up; which he won’t, just tell him I made you come with me. I’ll take all the blame, it will be worth it.” Dean responded his thoughts far from the conversation.

“Don’t call me Spaghetti-O you know I hate that; I’m not a baby anymore. You really think that dad will buy that you forced me to go with you? And for the record I don’t want my ass beat as you so poetically call it anytime soon.” Sam finished stomping off.

Sam pouted but Dean begged, threatened cajoled and finally won Sam over. Dean called Josie and she said her dad would be there in a few minutes to pick the boys up. Dean grabbed the bag that held some extra shorts and towels and gave Sam a final push out the door.

TBC