Throughout the next year, you see Dean fairly often, given the amount of time you spend with your uncle because of your family's situation. You don't become friends immediately, you start off dancing around each other; being nice but not actually attempting to spend time together. The situation you're both in is what pushes you to be more. His father drops him and Sam off every hunt that he deems too dangerous. You knew this used to occur even before you were around Bobby, but you weren't aware it happened that frequently.

When you ask your uncle about it, his cryptic response doesn't tell you much: "John does his best to keep the boys safe." But even then, you see the hesitation in his eyes. So, you continue to run into Dean occasionally, sometimes you help him take care of Sam, and he appreciates it. Steadily, your trust starts to grow, yet it isn't until one particular night that you realize the true extent of your bond.

The snow covering the ground crunches beneath someone's steps. The blizzard stopped a few hours ago, it's so cold outside that you can't stop the shivers, yet you refuse to go back inside the house. There's too much going on inside your head for you to properly focus on the festivities. The Winchesters are back again this Christmas, and while you're glad you're not alone with Bobby in the uncomfortable silences that have been happening recently, you're not in the mood to drink punch and laugh. One look at John and his children makes you realize what you don't have.

"What are you doing here? It's freezing," Dean's voice doesn't surprise you. You knew he was bound to follow.

"I'm just thinking," you murmur as he sits beside you.

He hums, "about what?" And for the first time since your family became a mess, you decide to confide in someone.