Note from author: Just a could be any time, any place, generalized drabble inspired by the fact that I watch Supernatural because sometimes the ideas in it really hit close to home, minus the monsters.


No Expectation, No Disappointment

Growing up, true compliments were a rarity. Maybe, at best, you could get a reverse oreo, a semi-compliment surrounded by criticism. You learned to compliment yourself, or to look elsewhere, or to go without. Family was supposed to be unconditional, right? Sure: unconditional critiques, whether you asked or not.

They both knew that. They remembered what it was like growing up. Sure, that was good for a hunter. It made you tough. Victims almost never said "thank you" anyway.

Sam packed up the gear, and Dean simply said, "thanks, man." Sam smiled. It's more than he ever got from Dad.