Disclaimer: Supernatural and all its characters belong to Kripke and the CW. I own nothing.

Title taken from the Eric Clapton song of the same name.


Summary: John and Dean struggle to help Sammy deal with the hardest aspect of life; the death of someone close. Warning: there is a death in the first chapter.(not the boys) Sammy-6 Dean-11

AN- I wasn't sure about posting this one here but I decided to risk it. For the purposes of this story, Epipens had not been invented yet. Not sure if they were around in the 80’s or not and couldn’t find any info on when they were first available on the internet.




Tears in Heaven



Six year old Sammy Winchester dashed out the backdoor of his classroom with his friends Trent and Logan. Running onto the playground the three boys stopped in front of the jungle gym and Trent dropped the soccer ball he was carrying onto the ground. He raised his foot to kick only to stop as their teacher’s voice called his name.

“Trent, you boys go away from the playground equipment if you want to play ball.” Ms. Marshall instructed pointing to a grassy area at the far edge of the playground.

“Yes ma’am” the boys replied. Scooping up their ball the three friends raced across the playground to the small, empty spot beside the woods.

Trent, a tall dark headed boy with gleaming brown eyes, set the soccer ball down once more. Taking a couple of baby steps back he ran up and kicked the ball to Sammy who dribbled the ball across to the bench before passing it to the smallest member of the group. Tongue stuck out in concentration Logan pushed his sliding glasses back up and readied himself to kick it. Waiting till the last second he raised his foot and kicked with all his might landing on his behind as he missed the ball completely.

“I’ll get it!” Trent hollered as he dashed towards the woods after the rolling soccer ball.

“You alright, Logan?” Sammy asked as he dropped down next to his friend. He looked the blond haired, blue eyed boy over searching for any injuries and smiling when he found none. Standing he helped Logan to his feet and then brushed the dirt and grass off his jeans. “You’ll kick it next time” he said patting the other boy’s back as they started walking. “Dean says you just have to keep practicing if you want to be a good player like he is.”

“I practice all the time and I still can’t kick the ball.” Logan whined. “I’m never gonna get it right.”

“Yes, you will” Sam encouraged snapping his fingers as an idea came to him. “Hey, maybe you can come to the park with me and Dean. I bet he could teach you. Dean’s the best!”

“You think he would?” Logan asked.

“Sure, he will. Dean’s always helping me.” Sammy replied stopping at the edge of the woods. Looking over at Trent who was using a stick to search the bushes for his ball the littlest Winchester called, “Did you find it?”

Dropping the stick the first grader leaned down pulling something out of one of the bushes. “I got it!” he yelled holding up his prize. He sidestepped through the bushes heading for his friends. “It was stuck in that…OW!”

“What’s a matter, Trent?” Sammy asked hurrying to his friend’s side.

Trent rubbed the side of his neck. “A bee stung me.” He sniffed.

“Want us to go get Ms. Marshall?” Logan questioned staring at the raised red bump on his friend’s neck.

“Don’t be a baby.” Trent huffed. “It’s just a *wheeze* bee sting.”

“Are you sure?” Sam asked. Taking in his friend’s pale, sweaty face and the way he was breathing hard he added, “You don’t look so good.”

“I can’t, *wheeze* I can’t br-breathe” Trent gasped out as he dropped to his knees.

“Trent!” Sammy hollered dropping down beside his friend. He grabbed the other boy and helped him lay on the ground before turning to a terrified Logan. “Logan, go get Ms. Marshall now!” he barked. He waited for the little boy to run off and then turned his attention back to his ailing friend. “You’re gonna be okay, Trent. Logan’s getting Ms. Marshall and she’ll make you all better.” He soothed as he took Trent’s hand in his. Seeing his friend’s frightened eyes staring at him Sammy started carding a hand through the boy’s hair remembering how the action always calmed him. Sammy mumbled reassurances and stroked his friend’s hair long after the boy’s wheezing breaths stopped and his lax hand released its grip.

“Ms. Marshall! Ms. Marshall! Come quick! Trent’s hurt! He got stung by a bee and he can’t breathe!” Logan hollered running up to the teachers sitting on the bench by the school. Grabbing his teacher’s hand he started pulling her toward the far end of the playground.

Knowing immediately what the words bee sting and can’t breathe meant when combined Ms. Marshall hurried after the small boy shouting out instructions as she ran. “Mrs. Cobb, tell the office that a child is having an allergic reaction to a bee sting and to call an ambulance!” Seeing two of her students sitting at a tiny picnic table eating their snack she called out, “Sarah! Jenny! Go inside and get the blankets from the reading center and bring them to me! Hurry!” Kicking off her heels she raced across the playground to the far corner by the woods. She dropped down beside her two students gasping as she noticed Trent’s blue tinged lips and closed eyes. Grabbing the boy’s lifeless hand she felt for a pulse. Finding none Ms. Marshall quickly began chest compressions praying that the ambulance would make it in time.

John Winchester slammed the ancient book closed and tossed onto the huge pile on the other side of the table. Rubbing his tired eyes he glanced at the last book and sighed. This latest hunt was turning out to be his hardest one yet. After a week of searching city records and a good number of Bobby Singer’s book collection, he was no closer to figuring out what was taking people from their homes at night and ripping them to shreds in a nearby forest. Parts of the case fit the m.o. of several different supernatural creatures but not one was a perfect match. And every day that passed without a successful hunt was another chance for the killer to strike and another life lost. Scrubbing a hand across his beard John stood and walked over to the small kitchen in the house he’d rented four months ago. Snatching up the coffee pot he poured himself another steaming cup. There was something he was missing; he was sure of it. But what? He headed for the table to go over the information once more. Changing directions as the phone rang he set his mug on the coffee table and picked up the phone. “Winchester here” he gruffly answered.

“Mr. Winchester, this is Mrs. Robins at Westell Elementary School.” The secretary said. “I’m afraid there was a little incident on the…”

“What did Dean do this time?” John impatiently asked. He didn’t have time for this. He glanced over at the mound of research on the table before remembering he was on the phone. He tuned back into the conversation eyes widening as he caught the words ‘Sammy’ and ‘hospital’. “I’m on my way!” he hollered into the phone. Dropping the receiver John snatched his keys off the hook by the door and hurried out of the house. Climbing into the impala he slammed the car and revved the engine. Throwing the gear in drive the Winchester patriarch sped out of the driveway and onto the road leaving a cloud of dust in his wake.

aw man Poor Trent...I'm already intrigued and really into this story. please continue the rest of it...

I agree please continue.

I agree Poor Trent i love little supportive Sam, so sweet .

Oh man, what a start. Keep going, can't wait to see more. Poor Sammy. He always feels things so strongly, this is really going to hurt him.

Beth

supernaturalfreak8- Thank you! Yeah, the poor little guy didn't have a chance.(that was the part I wasn't sure about.)

aislinn- Thanks! Here's the next part for you.

Maisie*Duke-Thank you! Yeah, Sammy did a great job. But then again he learned from the best!

FireDancr2- Thanks! You're right about that. And the things that happen next are only going to make it harder for the little guy.



An- Just a heads up. I had unexpected company show up last night so updates might take a little longer. Sorry.


Chapter 2



John Winchester rushed through the sliding doors of the emergency room entrance and over to the nurse’s station in the middle of the room. Slamming his hand down on the counter to get the nurse’s attention he breathlessly said, “Excuse me, I’m looking for my son. The school called and said he was being brought here.”

“His name sir?” the young blonde asked.

“Sammy, Sammy Winchester” John replied.

The nurse typed a few words into the computer at her station, grabbed a clipboard, and turned back to the worried father. “Yes, your son is being seen by a doctor in exam room six. If you’ll just take a seat in the waiting room over there, I’ll let the doctor know you’re here so she can come out and talk to you when she’s done. Why don’t you fill out the paperwork while you wait? I’m sure you won’t have to wait long.”

“Look Ms., I’m not going to sit on my…” Hearing his name called John stopped mid-sentence. Spinning around he saw his son’s teacher shakily standing at the doorway of the waiting room. Hurrying over he took Ms. Marshall’s arm, led her to a row of chairs, and helped her sit down. Taking a seat beside her John plucked a couple of tissues out of a nearby box and handed them to her. He gave her a moment to compose herself before demanding answers. “Ms. Marshall, what happened to Sammy? Is he sick? Did he get hurt on the playground? What happened to my son?”

“Mr. Winchester, please calm down. Sammy’s alright. I think he’s just in shock after what happened.” The teacher told him.

John let out a relieved breath as the horrible scenarios he’d been dreaming up disappeared from his mind. Wondering what could have possibly happened at school to freak his youngest out enough that a trip to the hospital was warranted he asked, “What did happen?”

“We, we went outside for recess and everything was fine. Sammy and his friends, Trent and Logan, took the soccer ball out to the grassy part of the playground and they were kicking the ball to each other.” Ms. Marshall explained. “And then Trent got stuck by a bee. I, I didn’t know he was allergic; it wasn’t on his information sheet and his parents hadn’t said anything about it. I’m not sure they even knew he was. Anyway, by the time I got down there Trent had already stopped breathing. I did CPR until the paramedics got there but it was too late. There was nothing they could do. Sammy sat with Trent the whole time holding his hand and telling him he would be alright. He wouldn’t let go of Trent’s hand, not even after the paramedics got there and he wouldn’t respond to any of us either. Sammy just kept rocking and telling Trent he’d be okay. The medics said he was in shock. They covered him in a blanket one of the children had brought to me and put him in the ambulance, too. I didn’t want him alone so I had another teacher cover my class and I rode here with him.”

John felt like he’d been sucker punched. The one thing he’d never wanted his baby to experience had happened and he wasn’t there to stop it. All he could do now was try to help Sammy deal with his friend’s death. He just hoped he could do a better job this time around. He had failed with Dean; he refused to fail again. He was going to make sure his youngest came out of this alright. Scrubbing a weary hand across his face John made his decision. He’d call in another hunter to take over his case. Sammy needed his daddy and his boy was more important than any hunt. Looking back at the distraught woman at his side he gave her a half smile as he patted her hand. “Thank you for staying with him Ms. Marshall.” John said.

Hearing footsteps approaching they both glanced over to the doorway as a middle aged woman in a lab coat came into the room. “Is there a Mr. Winchester in here?” she called into the fairly crowded room.

Standing John quickly strode over to the short, plump woman. “I’m John Winchester” he greeted shaking the offered hand. “How’s my son?”

“Mr. Winchester, I’m Doctor Austin.” She said. “I’ve been treating Sammy since he came in. I know you’re probably anxious to see your son so how about I fill you in while we walk?”

“Thank you” John replied following the doctor out of the room and through the double doors at the end of the short hall. “How’s my son? Is Sammy alright?”

“Physically Sammy is going to be fine. We’ve been treating him for shock and he’s responding well.” The doctor assured him. Stopping at a closed curtain she put her hand out to stop the Winchester patriarch from going in.

“But?” John prodded knowing there was more.

“I’m worried about Sammy’s emotional state. When he was brought in, he curled into a ball on the exam table and hasn’t moved since. He hasn’t responded or even looked at anyone.” Dr. Austin explained. “I’ve called a child psychologist and asked for a consult. I just need your okay and she’ll…”

“No” John gruffly stated.

“But sir, I don’t think you understand the problem” the doctor argued.

“I understand perfectly, doctor.” John angrily fired back. “My son doesn’t need some quack screwing with his head. Sammy’s big brother and I will get him through this. We don’t need your help. Now I’d like to take my son home so if you’ll move your hand.”

“I really think he should stay…”

“Not happening” the hunter growled. “You said he was fine physically so there’s no reason for him to stay here. Now move your hand or I’ll move it for you.” Snatching the newly released curtain he yanked it back and walked into the cubicle heart breaking as he took in his baby boy curled into himself on the huge exam table. Seeing Sammy’s hands come out from under the sheet and reach for him John swiftly made his way to the table and scooped his youngster’s up smiling as his son wrapped his arms and legs around him. “Its gonna be alright Sammy” John assured his son before kissing his forehead. Turning he stomped out of the room refusing to even glance the doctor’s way. Unsure whether or not the doctor would attempt to stop him from leaving he quickly walked through the double doors and down the hall heading for the sliding doors that led outside. He stopped as a man blocked his way. He looked over the slightly shorter man before asking, “You got a problem?”

“Yeah, I got a problem alright. Your kid’s the problem! My Trent was a good kid! He never got in trouble; never caused any problems. He and Logan played together every day without so much as a skinned knee. And then your kid shows up and suddenly there’s trouble around every corner. And now they’re telling me my boy’s dead; that a bee sting killed him! Well I’m not buying it! Sammy boy there had something to do with it! I just know it!” the man angrily replied. “What’d you do, huh? You stab him with a stick or something? Tell me what you did, you little freak!” He grabbed Sammy trying to pull the boy away from his father as he continued to accuse Sam of killing Trent.

Stunned John kept a firm hold on Sammy as he backed away from the enraged man. His hands itched to knock the man flat but he couldn’t do that without loosening his hold on his son. And there was no way that was going to happen. Lifting a foot he kicked out connecting with the grieving father’s knee forcing the man to let go. Backing up until his back hit the nurse’s station John watched as first two then three security guards struggled to bring the man under control.

After a brief skirmish, they finally managed to detain the smaller man. As soon as they had everything under control, one of the guards looked over at John. “You plan on pressing charges?” he asked.

John glanced over at the grieving man and his wife and shook his head. He knew what it felt like to lose a loved one; how you wanted to hold someone responsible whether it was their fault or not. Sammy just happened to be a convenient target. John was sure that anger would be transferred to the teacher, the school, and maybe even the child’s doctor before it was over. It had with him. He had blamed anyone and everyone for what happened to Mary; at least until he talked to Missouri and learned the truth. No, that family was going through enough right now and he wasn’t about to add to it. Besides, he was going to have his hands full dealing with Sammy. He couldn’t handle a court case on top of that. Hugging his shaking son just a little closer to him John whispered reassurances to Sammy as they walked out the sliding doors to the parking lot where the impala was waiting. Without a moment’s thought the father opened the driver’s door and climbed inside with his precious bundle still in his arms. Sitting Sammy down beside him he wrapped one arm around his baby and pulled out of the lot.

Ok I know Trent's dad is under a lot of emotional stress right now, but good grief. My heart breaks for Sam. I wonder how Dean's gonna handle this.

I could understand why John didn't want Sammy to be treated by a shrink or anything...I think he done the right thing by saying that himself and Dean could get him through what he just went though. Trent's daddy though, I felt for him and John did understand so gladly he didn't throw no punches to Trent's dad. Great update hun!

aislinn- Thank you! You're right about that. Taking it out on Sammy was a horrible thing to do. Guess he just needed someone to blame. You're about to find out what Dean thinks about the situation.

supernaturalfreak8- Thanks! Yeah, I can too. Sometimes, talking to strangers helps but sometimes it just makes things worse. think it depends on the counselor and the child. Luckily Sammy has the best counselor of all; Dean. His big bro will take good care of him.





AN- Thanks for hanging in there with me.
The song at the end is “When the Children Cry” by White Lion.



Chapter 3


John pulled up in front of Westell Elementary and cut off the engine with a sigh. He hated bringing Sammy back to the place where the accident that traumatized his little boy had occurred but it couldn’t be helped. He had to pick up Dean before his eldest got wind of what had happened on the playground and freaked out. He couldn’t handle two terrified boys; he had his hands full trying to deal with just one. Glancing down at his silent son the Winchester patriarch gently ran a hand up and down Sam’s arm frowning at the trembling he felt. He needed to get Dean and get his boys home now. Throwing open the door John scooped up Sammy and climbed out of the car. He quickly strode across the porch and in the front doors of the building. Cradling his youngest in his arms he walked through the small lobby and into the school’s office. The worried father went up to the counter and nodded at the secretary’s greeting. “I’m here to pick up my son Dean Winchester. He’s in Mrs. Meyers room.” He told the short haired young woman as he snatched up the pen lying on the counter and signed his son out.

The twenty four year old brunette swiveled her chair around to the long intercom switchboard and swiftly pulled down a tiny metal lever. Then pressing and holding a red, circular button on one end of the board she loudly spoke into the microphone. “Mrs. Meyers, please send Dean Winchester up to the office with his things. He’s leaving.” Releasing the button she waited for the teacher’s answer and then wheeled back around to face John. “Dean’s on his way, Mr. Winchester.” Mrs. Robins said as she stood. She walked around the desk and patted Sammy’s back. “Hi, Sammy. Are you feeling better, sweetie?” Seeing the usually bubbly little boy flinch and bury his head in his father’s shoulder she looked up at John. “Is Sammy going to be alright?” she softly asked. “You know, we have a wonderful counselor on staff here. She’s been working with children for over ten years now and all the kids love her. I’m sure she’d be happy to help Sammy deal with what happened.”

Seeing the worry clearly written on the young lady’s face the Winchester patriarch gave her a slight smile. “Thanks for the offer but Sammy’s going to be just fine. Dean and I will make sure of it.” He assured her.

“Okay” Mrs. Robins replied. “Just call me if you change your mind. It’ll be…”

“Dad, do we hafta go now! We were just starting…” Dean grumbled as he bounded into the room. Catching sight of the state of his little brother the older boy’s expression changed from annoyance to worry in a split second. “Dad, what’s wrong with Sammy? Is he sick?”

“I’ll explain later, Dean.” John hedged as he placed a hand on his eldest son’s shoulder and started steering him out the door. “Let’s get home first.” Getting a quiet ‘okay’ in reply he followed Dean to the door before stopping and turning back to the secretary. “Oh, Mrs. Robins, you might want to send someone to pick up Ms. Marshall. She was pretty upset when I was there.”

“Thank you, Mr. Winchester. I’ll do that.” Mrs. Robins said.

John nodded at the secretary and then walked out the door and back across the lobby. Getting outside he quickly led the way to the impala. He waited for Dean to open the back door and climb inside before leaning down to hand his youngest to his big brother. Grasping Sammy under his arms he attempted to pass him to Dean. He froze as his son whimpered and tightened his death grip on his dad. “Change of plans, Dean.” John said as he straightened back up. “We’re all riding in the front today.” Seeing his eldest leap over the seat John shut the back door. Dean’s gymnastics showed him just how worried the older boy was about his brother. He would have had a stroke if Sam had done that. The kid was certain that the impala was going to be his one day and he didn’t want anyone messing up his “baby”. He kinda reminded John of the man that had talked him into buying the car in the first place. Shaking his head at the memory the Winchester patriarch adjusted the precious bundle in his arms and dropped into the driver’s seat. Slamming the door he revved the engine and tore out of the driveway.

Ten incredibly silent and tense minutes later the classic Chevy pulled up to their house and the small family clamored out. They walked the few steps to the front door.

John swiftly unlocked the door and went inside being careful not to disturb the salt lines. Tossing the keys in the direction of coffee table he headed straight for the old wooden rocking chair by the stone fireplace. Thanking his lucky stars that the owner had taken one look at Sam and decided to leave the rocker for them the young father sat down in the chair and settled his youngest in his lap. The Winchester patriarch took the tattered blue blanket and teddy bear that appeared in front of him. Smiling at his eldest son he placed the stuffed animal in his baby’s arm before wrapping the boy in the blanket. He carded a hand through Sam’s hair as he slowly rocked back and forth. Feeling the trembling begin to lessen John did the one thing that had always soothed his sons; he started to sing smiling as Dean quickly joined in.
“Little child, dry your crying eyes how can I explain the fear you feel inside”
The two sang the song over and over until Sammy’s breathing finally evened out in sleep. They went through the song once more to insure the little boy wouldn’t awaken. John then slowly stopped rocking and carried his son to the couch. After laying his youngest on the couch and spreading the blanket over him, he motioned for Dean to follow him into the kitchen. Taking a seat at the table he ran a weary hand down his face.

“Dad?” Dean softly called as he dropped in the chair beside his father. “Dad, what’s going on? What happened to Sammy?”

“There was a, umm, accident at school, Dean. Sammy and his friends were playing on the playground and one of the boys, Trent, got stung by a bee.” John explained. “Turns out the kid was allergic to bee stings. He had a severe reaction. They called the ambulance but it didn’t get there in time.”

“Trent’s, he’s d-dead?” Dean stammered recalling the excited little boy that had met them at the front of the school that morning.

“Yeah” John replied. “And Sammy saw the whole thing. His teacher said he stayed with Trent; wouldn’t let go of his hand even after the paramedics got there."

Dean looked down at his hands as he processed the fact that little kid he’d joked with that morning was gone and from something as innocent as a bee sting. The older brother gasped as a thought suddenly hit him. “Dad! Dad, what about Sammy? Is he allergic to bees, too? What do I do if he gets stung? It won’t kill him too, will it?” he questioned.

“Whoa! Calm down Dean!” John said. He pulled his oldest son off the chair and wrapped his arms around him. “There’s no reason to think Sammy is allergic to a bee sting, Dean. You’re not.” He assured his son. “Look, I don’t know if there’s some test the doctors can do to see if he’s allergic to a sting but I’ll find out. With all the moving around we do he’s bound to get stung sooner or later. I’m actually kinda surprised he hasn’t been already.”

“Can we keep him inside till you find out about the tests?” Dean asked. “You know, just to be on the safe side?”

“Don’t think you’ll have to worry about that right now, champ.” John replied. “Think we have a bigger…” the rest of his statement was drowned out as a terrified scream sounded from the living room.

Aww poor Sam. I love that song, in fact I have the album. I like the way you are showing John, I mean I really think he was a real S.O.B., but there had to be times he was tender, especially when they were younger. Even at that age Dean of the Impala as his baby.... gotta love that boy.

Another great update.

Just found this story. I feel so badly for poor little Sammy. How terrifying to see your friend die like that. I wouldn't be surprised if the little guy isn't terrified of bees now. Although I feel for Trents father, it was horrible of him to lash out at Sammy like that. I hope that he apologizes to the kid at some point. Great job so far hon...am putting it on alert.

Cindy

aww poor Sammy...he's probably having a nightmare . I'm hoping that John and Dean can help him get through this...obviously its going to take a whole lot of work and comfort but Sam is strong, he'll be ok eventually. Great update!

aislinn- Thank you! I agree. While he was an a** most of the time, he had to have been a good father at times.

cindy123- Thanks! You're right about that. Sammy probably will fear bees once he comes out of his shell. maybe John will get that test done first and they won't have to worry about that bothering the little guy.

supernaturalfreak8- Thank you! Yep, its a nightmare. I have a feeling there's going to be a lot of those. And not just about Trent's death either.



AN- Sorry this one is so short. But we're getting snow for the first time in years and I wanted to make sure I got an update out just in case we lose power.


Chapter 4



Dean’s chair clattered to the floor as he leapt to his feet and raced across the room intent on getting to his distressed sibling. With his father hot on his heels the eleven year old ran to the doorway separating the kitchen from the living room and started through it. Turning the corner he fell backwards as his little brother barreled into him sending both boys to the floor in a tangle of limbs. Quickly recovering from the tackle Dean sat up and pulled Sammy into his lap. “Shhh, Sammy, shhh” he soothed as he wrapped his arms around his crying sibling. “Everything’s gonna be okay, Sammy. I’m here now.”

John silently watched his eldest son comfort and calm his younger sibling. He smiled as Sammy’s shaking began to lessen and he melted into his big brother’s embrace. Knowing that the position Dean was sitting in had to be hurting his back John gave his son a few more minutes to work his magic and then stepped in. Coming up behind his boys the Winchester patriarch leaned down and gently scooped both his children up. He carried them over to the couch, sat down, and settled Dean in his lap as Sammy continued to cling to his big brother. Resting back against the couch the worried father wrapped a comforting arm around both of his sons.

Dean gently rubbed his little brother’s back as he murmured reassurances over and over to the troubled boy. Smiling as Sammy’s cries began to taper off and the trembling ended he racked his brain for a way to make his sibling okay again. Remembering that movies always made a sick Sam feel better, Dean decided to give it a try. He shifted slightly and leaned down so he could see Sammy’s eyes. “Hey, Sammy, you wanna watch a movie? We could put in one of those new ones that Pastor Jim sent us.” He offered.

“That’s a good idea, Dean.” John agreed. “Why don’t you go pick one out for us?”

“Okay dad” Dean replied. He carefully wiggled out of his father’s lap and hurried over to the small wooden shelf by the television. Kneeling down he gazed at the handful of videos wondering which one would be best in this situation. He immediately discounted Old Yeller and The Cowboys knowing that they would only make things worse. Spying The Black Cauldron video he quickly pulled it out. Now this was a movie they’d both enjoy. It had swords and a boy fighting supernatural creatures for him. But it also had an adorable little furball named Gurgi that Sammy would…Dean quickly placed the video back on the shelf as an image of the furball lying dead came to mind. That was definitely not something his little brother needed to see. Looking over the movies he pulled out the Winnie the Pooh video with a sigh. The movie was stupid and boring to him but Sam liked it and that was all that mattered right now. Pulling the video tape out of the box Dean reached over and turned on the TV. He popped the video in the player and then walked back to the couch. Seeing Sammy lying on the couch with his head in John’s lap Dean sat down on the other end and scooted over pulling his brother’s feet into his lap. He ran a hand up and down his sibling’s arm as the movie started.

A couple of hours later a very frustrated Dean dragged himself off the couch and slowly trudged across the room to the television. The movie idea had failed miserably. Sammy hadn’t spoken or moved the whole time the show was on. He hadn’t even giggled and jumped around when Tigger came bounding onto the screen. Sighing Dean punched the stop/eject button on the VCR. Grabbing the video tape he shoved it back into its case and tossed it on the shelf. Then he turned the TV to a cartoon show and turned to go back to the couch. He stopped as movement outside the window caught his eye. “Uhh, dad” he called as he stared at the cars pulling in their driveway. “I think you should see this.”

“What is it, Dean?” John asked from his spot on the couch.

“There’s cars parking in our front yard.” Dean explained. Watching as the car doors opened he let out a relieved breathe. “It’s Mrs. Hackett and Logan and some others. I don’t recognize them.”

Shifting into hunter mode John patted Sammy’s arm before standing up. “Dean, stay with your brother.” he ordered as he marched to the front door. Opening the door a fraction of an inch the oldest Winchester was surprised to see several women walking up to the house with dishes and containers in their hands. Thinking that the ladies must have the wrong house he stepped out onto the porch. “Evening ladies.” He greeted.

“Good evening, Mr. Winchester” Mrs. Hackett replied as she came up the stairs. “How’s Sammy? Is he doing alright?”

“Sammy’s going to be just fine. He’s just a little shook up right now.” John told the group. “Ummm, Mrs. Hackett, I don’t mean to sound rude but why are you all here? And what’s with the dishes?”

“Oh, I’m sorry. I forgot you boys aren’t from around here.” Janice Hackett apologized. “You see here in the South we take care of our own. When a tragedy like this happens, we make sure the affected families don’t have to worry about anything. We fix food, clean the house, do whatever needs to be done to make things easier for the families.”

“But that still doesn’t explain why you’re here. Trent’s family is the one that you should be taking care of, not mine.” John pointed out.

“Some of us are at Trent’s house already. But we knew you and Ms. Marshall would need us too. So we split our group up between the three places. Our group is here to help you with whatever you need.” Janice clarified. “We will understand if you’d rather be left alone though. You and your boys are probably not use to having a lot of women around the house. But please accept the food we brought for you. Let us at least do that much for you.”

John looked from one lady to another in surprise. He honestly didn’t know what to say. He’d never had anyone do something so thoughtful for his family, not even when Mary had been killed. Opening the front door he stepped aside and motioned the group inside. Feeling a tug on his pants leg he glanced down smiling at the tiny boy gazing up at him. “Hey there, Logan.” He said ruffling the little boy’s hair.

“Mister Winchester, is Sammy all better? Can I play with him and Dean?” Logan asked.

Kneeling down beside the little boy John put a hand on the child’s shoulder. “Logan, I don’t think Sammy’s up to playing right now.” He told him. “He’s not feeling too good.”

“Can I see him? I promise I’ll be really quiet.” Logan solemnly replied.

John thought for a moment before grinning. “Sure kiddo” he agreed as he picked the tiny boy up. “Let’s go see Sammy. You might be just what the doctor ordered.” Hoping he wasn’t making a big mistake John turned and walked into the house.

Wow, just found this story! What a great job you're doing. I do like it when John is written this way...so what will it take for little Sammy to perk up?

Yep, that's southern hospitality for ya . I guess it had been a while since John had seen complete strangers help him instead of him helping them ya know. Great update!