Across The Universe
Sam didn't need to look at the clock to know it was late.
He tried to rub the dryness from his eyes, but he couldn't get rid of the weariness.
Dean had said goodnight hours ago. He was probably sound asleep. What keeps him up? We're back working; he should be happy.
Stacking the books and marking his place with bits of paper, Sam realized how truly tired he was. He was hoping to get some rest but his brain just wouldn't stop.
All that crap Dean said about family. Was he kidding? Like it was some kind of magic word letting you do whatever without thinking about consequences or the effect on other people. It can't always be what you want, Dean.
His thoughts were spinning. But, he needed to get to bed. He was tempted to lie down on the couch and not take the walk down the hall, but, he really needed to sleep. He needed his own bed.
As Sam passed Dean's door, on the way to his own room, he heard his brother's voice. He didn't really want to listen but his curiosity got the better of him. It wasn't a conversation. It was just Dean.
"….he gave me that speech about seeing the light in the tunnel, he wasn't ready to die. So, I had to stop him…."
Sam had forgotten he'd said those words. Maybe it wasn't all Dean's fault.
"Gadreel! He told me he was Ezekiel, a good soldier, you said…."
Sam was puzzled. He was sure his brother was alone. Now he understood. Dean was praying.
"…from decisions I've made….But Cas, he barely speaks to me…."
He felt he was listening to Dean's soul. The pain touched him.
"He doesn't need me…But I need him…."
Sam raised his hand to knock.