There was a girl with blond hair in a skirt and tank top looking really pissed off. And maybe a little scared. A man lay dead on the floor; it looked like a living room. The girl was walking toward the man who had just killed the other, but she took a step back when she saw his yellow eyes.
Sam opened his eyes trying to focus on his surroundings. Motel. Great. It'd been another vision-slash-dream. Sam and Dean were still in Kansas after taking care of another of Sam's vision. They'd saved the day, and now were resting before hitting the road in the morning.
Sam tried to focus again. This time on his vision. There has been a demon there, trying to hurt the girl. They had to help her. Morella Foreman. His childhood best friend. Daughter of Sean Foreman and Lilian, Morella's mom died like theirs, in a fire.
He got up from bed and got dressed. Where was the place in his vision? He thought he remembered it, like he'd been there before. Suddenly, he had an idea. Sam took his computer and started looking for a map of Berkeley, California. He searched the town, looking for the house from his vision. He found it. It was exactly like re remembered. An old Californian house, big and cozy looking
He closed his lap top and began packing. Next, he went to wake up Dean and told him the whole story. Dean was freaked at his visions, but he went hunter-mode immediately.
-We should talk to Dad- he said putting a shirt on.
-We should- Sam agreed- but I don't know if he'll answer-. Dean looked at him and knew Sam was right. And he hated when he was right. Smartass little brother.
-Yeah- he said in a whisper, the he spoke louder- we gotta try anyway, Sammy-
-Ok, you do that- Sam said, grabbing their clothes bags- I'm going to check out and put this in the car. Give me the keys-. Dean handed him the keys and Sam left.
-Here goes nothing- Dean said, opening his cell phone and dialing John's number.
It was maybe 60º outside, pretty cold for California weather. But, it wasn't gonna ruin my birthday, hell no. I was now 23, happy (or semi happy) college student in Berkeley. The party with the girls was finished and now I'm going to a family dinner. It's Friday the 18th, and I hadn't seen my guys in like, a month. Mid-terms exams can do that to a person.
Anyway, I went to my car after saying good bye to Penny and Sophie. They were like the sisters I never had. And the so called party had been really awesome, nothing weird, just us being us. I enjoyed it, and now I was gonna enjoy my family. Damon will be so happy to see me. And Dad. Wow, Dad's sure waiting outside in the porch for me already. I shook my head trying to focus on opening the car door. My71 Chevrolet Corvette was red, really sport-y car. I loved it so much. Dad had given it to me when I started college after the sabbatical. That had gone really great, if you understand my sarcasm. They never let me go back hunting, and sent me straight to school. And now I was an almost graduated Art student. Nice life, considering all that'd happened.
My mom died when I was six month old. I really don't remember her much, but Damon (my big brother) does. He loved her so much I can't even imagine what he went trough. Poor guy was only 5 when she was killed. By a demon. Burnt in my nursery. The demon had been after me, and my dad had stopped him. But Mom died in the process. And sometimes (like right now) I really miss her. I wish she was here and that nothing of this had ever happened. But that's just not real, and I gotta be strong for them. I reminded myself that every day.
I finally was in front of my dear car but when I was getting the keys of my purse I saw something. A beautiful car passed just then. I was pretty sure it was an Impala, really great car. But I didn't pay any attention. I must be going nuts.
It was almost dark when I got to my house. I got out of the car, secured the locks, and then walked to the porch. Dad wasn't there, so he must be trying to surprise me. I smiled at the thought. This house had been ours since mom died. It was the house of my childhood and I loved it. But, right there right then, something felt off. I turned around when I heard an engine noise. It was the Impala, again. What the hell? I thought, guessing that maybe whoever was driving the car, and it couldn't be who I thought, might be stalking me or something. I really hope not.
I let myself inside, and I think I won't forget what I saw for the rest of my life. Dad was lying on the floor, blood all around him. I didn't understand it. I'm pretty sure I went into shock, because it seemed like ages had passed before I was able to move again. I closed the door and walked to my dad. I looked for a pulse, but there wasn't any. I started mumbling nonsense like, no, please don't, and all that. Then I thought: where's my brother? And as quickly as that thought registered in my mind I was running upstairs to find Damon. I got into his room and he was lying there too, but he wasn't dead. I could see his chest moving with each breath. I let out a sigh and went to help him. I moved him and he slowly woke up.
-What happened?- he asked with pain in his voice.
-Are you hurt?- I asked in return, avoiding the question.
-I…I don't think so- he said, and I felt relieved in a second. At least he was okay. Though the relive didn't last long.
-What happened?- Damon asked me again. I sighed again. I still couldn't believe what had happened. Dad dead on the floor, Damon hurt. It was almost too much. I felt the tears building in my eyes and Damon saw them too. He hugged me, and I started sobbing. I couldn't think about it. I had to be strong for Damon, and I had to find the one who killed my father.
But first I had to tell Damon.
-Damon- I whispered, he was close enough he could hear me.
-Morella? Please, tell me what happened-. I didn't answer.
-Ella? Please- he begged. I repressed another sob and said:
-Dad's dead-
-What?- Damon asked, almost yelling.
-Dad's dead- I repeat, and I could have sworn I felt my heart breaking.
-No!- he said and let me go, running downstairs.
-No!- I heard another scream and went after him, collecting myself. And then, I couldn't find him.
-Damon?- I called, confused.
-E…Ella- the sound came from beside me. And my brother was there, he couldn't move, because a demon was holding him there. And I saw red. I felt such anger and rage that for a moment I didn't recognize myself. Then I focus on killing the monster and saving my brother.
I started walking towards him, menacingly slow.
-Let. Him. Go- I said through clenched teeth. And the fucker laughed. He fucking laughed. I saw red again. I could feel my power building inside me, and because I sensed the demon, I guessed he was the one who killed my mom. And now my dad, and was about to kill my brother. I'll be damned if I let him walk away.
I was close to him now, but I stopped dead in my tracks when I saw his eyes. They were this freaky yellow tone that made my insides go crazy with fear. So it was him. The evil fucker who had ruined my mom's life.
-What do you want?- I asked, preparing myself to attack. He smiled this nasty, evil smile. I shivered, he laughed.
-I want you, Ella, you- he answered.
-What? You'll never have me. And, anyway, if you want me so bad why killing them?- I said looking to my dad and Damon- it sure doesn't seem the right way to gain my trust or whatever-
-They were in the way, Ella- and it was the second time he called me Ella. Ella called me those who knew me and loved me. Not a fucking demon. I snarled, surprised at my own bravery.
-Stop calling me that- I barked- and get the hell out!- I screamed, at the same time I lifted my hand and closed my fist. And then the demon was gasping in pain. And now I smiled, because it felt like sweet revenge. I wanted to know a few things, but I'd get them myself after I kill him. I wasn't gonna waste the chance.
Black smoke started coming from him and I knew I had him. But then the front door was kicked open, and I lost my focus. I looked from the demon to the door. There were two guys standing there, with guns. They looked familiar, one was taller than the other, had brown hair and brown eyes, was wearing jeans and a flannel t-shirt with a jacket on. The other one was shorter, still a lot taller than me, and had dirty blond hair and dark green eyes. And they had the worst timing ever.
I was fucked now, because as soon as they got in, Yellow Eyes got out. And I was frustrated and pissed. Really pissed. So pissed actually I wanted to kill them. But then I saw Damon and run to him. The two guys just stayed there, looking at me.
-Hey, are you okay?- I asked my brother. He nodded, and then looked at them.
-Sam? Dean?- he asked, his voice weak.
The taller one, with brown hair answered
-Hi Damon - he said smiling lightly
-Ok, what are you doing here? –I asked them while taking Damon to the couch. Sam and Dean Winchester, old friends, as we went. I couldn't believe it.
-We were here to help you, but you didn't seem to need any help- Sam said confused.
-What the hell is that supposed to mean? Why in hell's name are you here?- I yelled. Then I realized something. I hadn't seen them in like, five years, minimum. Wow, long time.
-Hey, easy tiger- Dean said and I glared at him –Sorry. But it's hard to explain-
-All right then- I said, getting up of the couch- I'm gonna fix him up- I looked at Damon, then back at them- and after that, you're gonna talk, okay?-. They nodded, so I left to look for the first aid kit. When I came back, Damon had obviously told them to sit down, because they were sitting, in the chairs across from us. If he hadn't, then they're really confident.
I started to clean Damon's blood from his face, and then I put a bandage on his cuts. They weren't that bad, could've been worse, I'm sure.
-Okay, so, what're you doing here?- I repeat, making clear I wanted answers. Damon looked at me, then them. He was confused, like maybe he'd known the reason.
-We knew you were gonna be attacked tonight, so we came - Sam answered. And Damon's mouth almost fell to the ground. I didn't get it.
-You've just got your abilities, right?- he asked them. Now they looked confused.
-Yeah, he did- Dean answered suspicious. Damon laughed. Maybe he hit his head or something,' cause it wasn't funny. At all.
-Wow… this is so weird- he murmured. Understatement, I thought. This was beyond weird to straight crazy. I didn't understand and I hate when that happens.
-How you know that?- Dean asked, getting nervous it seems. I was wondering that too.
-C'mon Dean! You knew back then that Morella and Sammy were more similar than we wished for - Damon answered. Now I was starting to think he had a concussion.
-What? How you know that?-
-Cause Dad told me- and if the first time it hadn't hit me, it did now. My dad was gone. I felt like crying, but I couldn't fall apart in front of them. Besides, Damon needed me there, strong as ever.
-Let's get back a few steps, okay?- I asked, taking control- What are you talking about- I looked at Damon- And why are you here?-I looked at Sam and Dean.
-I…I …- Sam was stocked. I glared at him. I wasn't in the mood. I couldn't grieve my dad in peace and I had to put up with Sam's rumblings. Awesome.
-Get it out please- I said, as nicely as possible. Sam and Dean looked at each other and nodded. Then back at me. They were looking at me a lot. I wonder why? Maybe the time apart had done something to them.
-I had a vision- Sam said. And then I understood everything. He was like me. Or, similar, probably. But was that connected to our childhood? Maybe. I decided to ask that out loud. To my surprise, Damon answered.
-Mom died in a fire, just like Mary- he looked at the guys. Oh, so it was connected.
-How you know?- Dean asked. He seemed more suspicious than me.
-Dad told me- Damon answered lightly. Back then, we were really good friends, but our dads kept us in the dark about our abilities. I realized that now, that we were all confused.
-All right- Sam murmured, then decided that he had more important things to ask- What were you doing to that demon?- he asked me. I didn't even blink.
-I was gonna send his sorry ass back to hell, where he belongs- I answered, and again, they kept looking at me.
-How?- Sam asked.
-I have these abilities that I can use against demons, mostly. Maybe I can sense a few spirits, but I'm not sure, because I only tried a few times-. Sam seemed shocked, but kinda… hopeful? That was weird. Dean looked surprised, which made me uncomfortable, 'cause the guy was hot and I felt like a freak.
-How did you get them?- he asked. I was about to answered but Damon did it first.
-Same way you got yours, Sam- he was acting strange. He was reunited to his old friends talking about my abilities. That was just plain weird.
And now Dean seemed angry.
-How the hell you know that?- he said in a hard tone.
-Want me to repeat it to you again?- Damon said- my dad told me. He told me everything he knew about children like Ella and Sam-. Children? Really? I was 23 for fuck's sake!
-And how did your dad know?-
-From around. Mostly he knew about you, what had happened, and then he came with the conclusion that you had to have some sort of power or ability, just like Ella has-
-What can you do?- Sam asked me.
-Um…well, mostly, kick demons' asses. I was a hunter once and it was there that these abilities developed. Before that I was just my old self-
-Oh…- he sounded like he just realized something.- You ever had any visions?-
-Nop- I answered- not that I remember anyway. But I think every person's abilities are different from each other. So, if I were you, I wouldn't worry. Just give it time-
-Give it time?- Dean asked kinda angry- You're kidding? We don't know what this "abilities "can do. Somebody might get hurt- And I could tell that Sam was hurt for that statement.
-The only ones who will get hurt will be those son of bitches demons- I said- but it depends on you- I looked at Sam, he seemed hopeful again- You can do good, or you can do whatever you want, but, I recommend you good. These powers, if I'm right, are not to fight demons but to help-
-Then how is this suppose to work, uh?- Dean asked, I was starting to get annoyed at the guy. Because he was hot it doesn't mean he had any right to talk to me that way. It's been a long time.
-Hey, buddy?- I told him- why don't you shut up a little? Let's the adults talk, all right?- and I smirked. I could tell he was thinking about, I don't know, punching me? Ha. No way in hell, but, whatever. Sam looked amused; on the other hand, Damon just rolled his eyes. So I continued.
-Your powers are yours only. Remember that. My father used to say to me when I was freaked out about all of this that the only one who can decide my fate was me. And he was right. Same goes for you. Look, I get it, ok? You feel lost; you don't know what to do. I can help, I think, but first, let's take care of… the situation- I said, referring to my dad without saying so. I was still broken on the inside; my head was turning around the idea of my father dead.
At that, Damon's eyes filled with tears, and it made me wanna go hug the hell out of him. And I did. He needed me there.
-Um, if, you, you know, want us to take care of this so you won't have to, we'll do it gladly. Or not gladly, but, willing- Sam shut up for a moment- we just wanna help-. I smiled at him. He was still nice. Not so sure about his brother, but, whatever, again.
Damon looked at me.
-You wanna say good bye?- he asked. I felt my throat tightening and tears starting to fall. I nodded, and went to my father's… corpse. It hurt like hell just to think it. When was it gonna end? The misery in my family, the pain?
I bent over and close his eyes. Then I whispered
-I love you Dad. Forever and always- and wiped tears from my cheek. Then it was Damon's turn. But I couldn't watch, so I went to the kitchen to make something to eat.
-You guys want some sandwiches?- I asked Sam and Dean.
-Um, sure- Sam answered- We'll be right back ok?- he said, referring to the fact that they were gonna salt and burn my father. Damn demons and damn world. I just wanted justice. I just wanted freedom. But, no, of course it'd be impossible.
That route of thoughts wasn't taking me anywhere. So, I went to the kitchen and started fixing sandwiches. Damon followed. I put meat and chicken on the table for the guys to fix their own, in case they didn't like something. Now, thinking about it, I was kinda grateful that they were here. It gave me another option. Because I had to find the truth about me. And Sam would be the perfect partner for that. Like he always had been.
I thought that as long as I'm back on the hunting road, I might as well take the best of it. And I couldn't take Damon with me. Even though he is my big brother, I couldn't risk him. It'd be better if we go our separate ways. He wasn't gonna like it. But if the guys take me, I'd be happier with Damon safe, and not on the road. Just for security measures. I loved my brother to death. And that was why I had to protect him.
But, baby steps, I told myself. Dad just died, we can't leave this soon. I'd wait a few days, because it's dangerous here. Yellow Eyes knew where I was, and he might come back for Damon. And I wasn't gonna let him.
Back to reality outside my head, Sam and Dean were already back. Wow, they were good. And fast. I hurried and put the food on the table. I didn't know if coffee was okay, so I asked.
-You want some coffee guys?- They all nodded. So I started preparing the coffee. The little housewife in me couldn't stop. I had to do something to keep my mind busy, and right now, it was my best option.
Sam was talking to my brother. Dean was still looking at me. I wonder why. Okay, he was hot, even hotter than the last time I saw him but, I couldn't think about it now. My pain was too raw to feel anything else. But if his intentions were about that, then I would make him wait, but I wouldn't reject him, it wasn't in me to do that.
I finished the coffee and went to the table. I sat next to Dean, because Sam had taken my place next to Damon. Oh well.
-You want a sandwich?- I asked Dean, Damon was so busy talking I didn't wanna interrupt.
-Sure- he answered, smiling. I smiled back. He was nice to be around too. And that made my decision easier somehow.
-How you want it?- I asked.
-Mmm...- he looked self conscious. I knew him too well.
-You want it with everything right?- I said, smiling playfully. Dean seemed kinda relieved.
-Yeah…- he answered. I smiled wider. After I finished and handed him his sandwich, he thanked me and I started to fix Damon's. And then Sam's. I was a little on edge. And I wanted to make their lives easier. Even if it meant cooking. I almost laughed at myself. I loved cooking. I don't know what was wrong with me. I sighed. It was gonna be difficult. But for the moment, it was getting pretty late. And I wanted to go to my room, and cry myself to sleep. Sad? Yes. Pathetic? Yes. But nobody had to know that.
-So…- I said after cleaning the kitchen. Damon was still talking to Sam, and Dean was helping me clean up. Nice of him.
-You guys wanna stay here? It's late, and you don't have to go to a motel if you don't want to-
-We don't wanna bother you- Sam said.
-No, it's okay, not problem. You stay here; we have an extra room anyway. Let me go prepare it for you- I said smiling kindly. Or, I was trying to anyway.
-Hey, I'm going with you- Dean said, I looked at him- If you want- he added.
-Yeah, thanks- I answered, somehow needing the company. He must have sensed that, 'cause he wasn't leaving me alone. I smiled. Poor guy, didn't have a clue what he was getting himself into. Or not. Let's not hurry, and take it slow. I didn't know if they were gonna accept my offer. Or, more adequate, my petition.
Dean came with me upstairs and waited while I looked for sheets.
-So..- he began, I waited- What you're gonna do after all this?- he asked. I sighed.
-I'm not sure. Go back hunting, I guess. It's the only way I can find any answers-
-That makes sense- he said- Can I ask you something? I don't wanna be a pain in the ass, but I'm curious-. Again, I smiled. Who knew a guy like that could make me feel a little better. It was nice of him; he seemed like the same old Dean. I missed him so much.
-It's no big deal. Ask- I answered.
-It's about, your, uh, powers-
-Okay, no problem. Shoot- I said taking the sheets and walking to the guest room. He followed.
-Dean- I pushed- C'mon-
-Okay. Mmm, how do you do it? I mean, Sam is freaked out, and he only has these visions. You fought Yellow Eyes and you don't even look shaken-
-Dean- I said- I'm not okay. I just lost my dad, and almost my brother. I had the power, so I used it. For me there's no better way to use it than to save the people I care about-
-I get that, but how can you control them?- he asked, helping me with the beds. I put the first sheet, and thought about it.
-I learnt. It took me a while, almost five years. But I learnt. I had to- I felt good talking to him, he was good company.
-Okay. That makes sense too- he said. Then he looked at me straight to my eyes. I think my heart jump a little. Stupid me. Horrible timing. Horrible timing.
-Morella- he said- can I ask you something?-
-Yes Dean, you can- I felt like rolling my eyes, but I was tired and hurt. So I didn't.
-Can you help Sam?- he asked. I was silent for a minute. He waited.
-Mmm, yeah, sure. I guess- my mumbling was embarrassing, but I couldn't help it. He seemed to be thinking the same I was. Or maybe not the same, but close. He wanted to help his brother, I wanted to help mine.
-Dean, I think I can help Sam controlling, but it will take a while- I said, carefully.
-Okay, yeah I know- he said- But that's not all, is it?- He was good at reading me. Or, whatever, maybe I was transparent.
-You're good- I smiled- no, that's not it. In order for me to help Sam, I'll have to be close. So… since I'm going back to the road, maybe we should do it together-. I looked at him. He was, surprised. Well, that wasn't too bad, right?
-You're serious, aren't you?-. Oh hell.
-Yes, I am- I answered.
-I gotta talk to Sam about it- he was silent, then he seemed to remember something- What about your brother?-. Again, I sighed.
-I can't be near Damon anymore. He has more chances to survive alone than with me-
-Why?-
-'Cause that demon knows me, and he knows I'm gonna do anything to protect him. The thing is, I don't wanna leave him, but I'm gonna, 'cause that's how fucking hard things are-. Dean looked like he understood. He probably did.
-Okay. But are you sure you can do it? You won't be worry sick or anything?-
-Of course I'm gonna worry- I said, finishing the first bed. I went to the other one- but I have to. I can't lose him too. If he keeps a low profile, he'll be able to cheat the demon. Meanwhile, I'll be learning more and Sam too. Two are better than one-
-You're right-
-You're not mad 'cause I wanna go with you right? I mean, it's been a while, I get that- I was unsure of myself. But, I didn't care either.
-No, I'm not mad. You're hot company- he said, and winked. I smiled- It's just that you might wanna give it some time-
-I know. But I'm not the type to sit and grieve. I grieve on the move; I have to be doing something other than feel sorry for myself. And I'm not saying we should go right now, just, give us a couple of days to do whatever we gotta do to the house and all, and then I have to go, Dean, I can't stay here-
-Okay, if you're sure, then, all right. I'm good with it. Not used to be with a woman on the hunt, but, I'll get use to, I guess. I mean, it's you right? How difficult could it be?-
-It could be very difficult- I teased. Talking to him was helping me not think about dad, so I intend to keep doing it. Besides, Dean was hot and nice to talk to.
Dean laughed.
-Ok, I'll get used to it. I'm just, gonna be kinda protective, I think. It's like, instinct to me-. Now I laughed.
-Yeah, like I didn't know that, having all of you breathing on my neck all the time-And now there was one missing, one who'll never gonna come back. . I took a breath, and shook my head to keep the thoughts away.
-You probably do, true. But I'm serious Morella, I'm, well, we are kinda over-protective-
-I don't mind. It's a good thing. It means you care. I you know I care about you too-
-Yeah, you're right. I was just saying-
-Yeah… I know- I laughed, then I sobered up quickly- Look, I wanna help Sam, we have things in common. Whatever he wants to know, I do too, so, together we can go further, we can find more. I'm not using you guys, please, but I need you, and you need me, kinda. So I'm willing to take the chance and go with you. If you'll take me-
-Okay- Dean was kinda shocked- It makes sense- Wow, he needed new phrases.
-I know. I t was my idea, don't forget- I smirked. I t was easy to be myself around him. It reminded me of my childhood, when we were at Bobby's, playing with Dean's little cars. H e laughed and we finished the beds and went downstairs. Sam and Damon were still talking. So I took a glass of water and told Dean if he wanna stay with me a while, since I was bored and not sleepy anymore. He said yes. Sam looked at us funny, but said nothing. Good.
Again upstairs, I let Dean into my room. And he whistled.
-Wow- he said- you rock!- I laughed hard that time.
-Why?- I asked, amused.
-C'mon! Led Zeppelin, AC DC? You know your music-. My room had posters and cds everywhere.
-But you knew that already- I said, teasing.
-Yeah, it's true. But, I've never been here before; it's like a new dimension. Ella's world, you know?- he laughed.
-Well, thanks then - I said. I went to sit in my bed, which had a symbol to catch demons in it. Courtesy of my dad's paranoia. Although, he wasn't that far off.
Dean sat beside me. He looked awkward. I smiled. I lay down, feeling the mattress under me. It was a great feeling, but it made me wanna cry. And that couldn't happen.
-So…- I said, distracting me- Tell me something-
-What you wanna know?- Dean asked, moving closer and making himself comfortable.
-I dunno- I said- Anything, I just wanna concentrate on something else that my dad you know? - . H e smiled sympathetically.
-Mmm…- he said, lying down next to me. Again, my heart seemed to jump- I don't know. Maybe I can ask you questions and you could answer? I wanna catch up with you. It's been too long-
-Okay, that sounds good- I said, my hands behind my head, looking at the ceiling.
-Okay- he said- What are you studying?-
-Art- I answered, he seemed surprised. I smiled.
-I study art 'cause it's a passion. My dad wanted me to do normal, so I did. For as long as I could, anyway. But like my hunter blood wasn't shutting up, I took some mythology classes and theology. I thought the more I know the legends, the more I know the reality-
-Yeah- he said, then asked- What do you like to do on your free time? You're still playing with cars and all?-. He laughed again, and I felt thankful. I could forget about dad and answer. It wasn't sane, and I was gonna have to cope somehow, but not now, let focus on the next move, I could think about dad anytime. He was always present anyway.
-Shut up!- I said while smacking him in the head-I love swimming. I mean, I do it at school, and I practice kick boxing, so I could probably kick your ass- I said smiling. He laughed.
-You probably could- he agreed.
-And you? What you like to do nowadays?- I asked, I was interested in him, I've missed him.
-Mmm, I dunno. Killing monsters?-
-Really? You like that?- I asked curious.
-Yeah… I mean, I don't know anything else. And I'm good at it, so I do it. Somebody has to-
-True- I said- but it's not fair, you know? We get to live like that, suffering, while others just worry about money, and if their dogs are sick. I don't know, it's hard. Maybe that's why hunters drink- I said, he laughed again.
-Yeah, that's probably it- He looked kinda sad, so I asked what was going on.
-It's my dad. He's missing, and we wanna find him, but, we don't know where to look for-
I felt bad for him. He had his father but he couldn't be with him. That gotta hurt. I turned around to face him. He was hot. Nice to look at. But I wasn't worry about it now; I wanted to make him feel better. I wanted to distract him and then I could help him find John. I wanted to see him too.
-You know? I can do lots of things that are kinda cool- I said, he looked at me- You wanna see?- I asked, smiling. He smiled back. It was a lazy grin, but beautiful.
-Sure- he answered and I sat so I could be comfortable. He sat with me. I closed my eyes and waited until I started to feel the power building. I needed focus, and it was easy, 'cause my emotions gave me fuel. I focused on the pictures I had in the mirror, I imagined how they'd look floating in the air.
I heard Dean's gasp and smiled. I opened my eyes slowly, keeping the focus on the pictures. I moved my hand and made them dance. Almost. Dean was smiling like a boy in Christmas morning. He was so cute. And I felt good. I was helping him forgetting. So I was happy. I knew he was like me, not likely to show emotions and more likely to look for distraction.
He then looked at me funny again. He looked into my eyes, then my face, until he reached my lips. He stayed there for a while, I let the pictures fall. If he wanted to kiss me, I wasn't gonna protest.
But he didn't do anything. He just smiled and said
-That was awesome-. I grinned too.
-Thanks-.
After that, we heard Damon telling Sam where their room was, and I looked at Dean. My eyes asked instead of my voice "you wanna stay?". He grinned again and nodded. We lay down, and waited till Damon was gone. Sam was probably wondering where Dean was, but he'll get that Dean was with me. Damon didn't go to check on me. Maybe he knew I was okay, considering.
I relaxed. I was starting to feel sleepy, and I wanted to. I needed to rest. Dean was next to me, and I turned to look at him. He was watching me too. I smiled, and got closer. I could feel his body's warmth and it felt safe. So I stayed there, hoping that the closeness could keep away the nightmares.
Nobody said anything. I turned off the lights, and I felt Dean's arm near my head. I used him as a pillow. He was really comfortable. And, for some reason, it didn't feel weird. He felt…safe. After all this time, he still felt like he used to. Like my knight in shining armor. I closed my eyes and I could have sworn I felt a hand caressing my face. Or maybe I was dreaming already. Anyway, I smiled, thinking maybe everything wasn't that bad. Maybe there were things worth fighting and living for.
The light of the sun woke me up. I was alone, but I wasn't surprised. I didn't sleep too well, nightmares filling my thoughts. And as a reflex of that, my clothes were a mess. I slept in my skirt and tank top, and they were all over my body. Damn it. I hoped Dean hadn't seen anything.
I changed and went to the bathroom. I couldn't recognize myself in the mirror. The girl in front of me was pale, she seemed tired. My usually ocean eyes were darker, sort of lifeless. And, God, I was. I was so tired. I felt like crying. I wanted to fall apart. It sounded so good right then, going crazy without caring who noticed or not. But things were harder than that. I took a deep breath. Dad I missed you, I thought. I was lonely and sad. I didn't wanna go outside. I wanted to hide from evil and disappear.
I heard my brother talking to someone. Maybe Sam or Dean. Who else was here? I walked downstairs slowly; the sense of déjà vú was giving me chills.
-Ella?- Damon asked, smiling lightly.
-Hi- I said, going into the kitchen to make coffee. Then I noticed the guys weren't there. Damon must've been talking on the phone.
-Where're Sam and Dean?- I asked, curious.
-They went out. They didn't wanna intrude-
-Oh, okay- I said then kept my mouth shut. I didn't feel like talking. But my brother wasn't having any.
-Ella? I talked to Dean- Oh shit! I thought.
-He told me what you wanted to do. And don't blame him, I forced him. I can't believe you're actually considering- he seemed hurt. I turned around to face him. I didn't wanna hurt him, hell no. But I was gotta, in order to do that.
-Damon- I said, smiling- I'm sorry for this. I really am. But we can't stick together. You're gonna die if you stay with me-
-Why? We could protect our backs-
-Yeah, but I'd be so worry about you that I'd kill every demon on earth. I need focus, and I need to know you're all right. I need answers Damon, please. And Sam does too. So I'm counting on the two of us being enough to handle a few demons-. He was still hurt, but I could tell he was defeated. He couldn't argue with me about that. He knew I was right. He alone could do so much better.
-I don't wanna leave you, Ella, don't make me- he pleaded. I felt tears falling down my face.
-I love you so much Damon- I said hugging him- But I gotta go. It'll never end if I don't do something-
-I won't be able to protect you. Dad'd be furious if he knew-. That just made me cry harder.
-I know- I said- But he's not here anymore Damon. And it feels like my heart is breaking. It's so hard Damon. So fucking hard- I sobbed- You don't get it! If I lose you too, I'll be all alone. And I can't be. I won't be. Not if I can help it-. Damon knew he was pushing the wrong buttons. So he let go.
-I understand- he said kissing my head. I sighed in relieve- How you wanna do it? I mean, I already talked to Martha to take care of the house. You want something from it? Or we can sell it all and move on-
-I don't want anything, except my stuffs. I'm taking them with me- I thought of something- Maybe we should wait for the guys to arrange everything. Did Dean talk to Sam?-
-Yeah, he seemed fine with it, but I think it's more the concept of Sam being different that bothers him. Sam was cool with it. Even a little enthusiastic-
-Oh, that's good- I said- He has to be ready, if not, he won't be able to work alright. Anyway, how you know so much about this stuff? You never told me that-
-Dad wouldn't let me. He said you had your innocence and that was the most important thing. So I shut up. But now you need to know. And so does he-
-Yeah…that makes sense- I said. It was all happening so fast; I was starting to have a headache.
-Damon, I need to know everything Dad knew- I told him seriously.
-Yeah, yes. I just, feel useless. I can tell you only a little part. But it was so hard to find out Ella. So hard-
-It's okay- I said sweetly- it doesn't matter how you got it. It matters that you did. Now, tell me-
-Alright- he began- Dad told me that he met a demon once, who told him he knew you. He didn't tell how. Until Dad made him talk- he smirked, I smiled nostalgically- So, he may have said that this other demon, Yellow Eyes, had plans for "kids" like you. So Dad asked the next obvious question. What plans? He didn't say. But, after that Dad started investigating demon folklore, and it turns out, ours wasn't the only case with Yellow Eyes all over it- it was all starting to make sense, and I was so scared I didn't even knew how to talk. If this demon had plans for me, whatever they were, they weren't good- So, we went to Bobby's, and there we met John Winchester. Wife killed in the same way. Wife best friend of Mom, it was all weird. So he checked. But, John didn't know anything about Sam's abilities, and, yours were just not showing yet, so we got a dead end. And that's all. Everything I know is: Yellow Eyes is powerful, more than your average demon. And he has plans for you. Not really good news you know? But, yeah, it's all I've got-. I was speechless for a while. Then I thought
-Did you tell Sam all this?-
-Yeah, he deserved to know. And maybe, it'd help them find their father-
-Yeah…- I murmured. I wasn't really focusing on that, even though I'll join them in their search. I was thinking about me, actually. About Sam, and whoever was out there with abilities like ours. And then, I felt so lost, so alone. I felt small in a world of evil, and I didn't like it. But I had to remember, that I wasn't really alone. I had Damon. And Damon had me. Poor guy, he deserved normal, but couldn't have it, because of me.
I must've been lost in my thoughts for a while, 'cause the next thing I knew, Sam and Dean were in the kitchen with us, and I didn't even hear them.
-Hey, Morella- Dean said- Are you alright?-. I looked at him. He seemed honestly worried. Maybe I wasn't so alone after all.
-Yeah…yes I am. I'm fine-. They didn't seem very convinced.
-So, I take it your brother told you everything, uh?- Sam asked in an easy going but strained voice. I nodded.
-So, what now?- Dean asked, directing to Damon.
-Well, now, we gotta sell this thing. Or at least do something with it- he said, referring to the house, of course. I looked at him, not actually seeing him. We were gonna sell the house from my childhood, the house of my life. The house when my father was killed. And, for that reason, I was relieved to sell it. I didn't want the happy memories overshadowed by the last memory. It'd be too much.
-I already talked to Dad's lawyer, and he is making the arrangements as we speak. He said to give him a couple of days, and then we can leave. He also said he's sorry about Dad-. I nodded again. I wasn't finding my voice anywhere.
-So, how we're gonna do it? Morella is coming with us, and, you, what? You'll travel alone?-Dean asked.
-Yeah. I'm goin' to Bobby's first?- They both nodded –I'll leave him the Corvette and then I'll hit the road. Alone-
-Alright- Sam said- so, we can leave, when?-
-In about two days. Maybe we can give Morella time to pack her stuff and say good bye to her car- Damon said playfully, I kinda smiled –And then you can do whatever it is you're gonna do-
-Alright then- Dean said- We'll leave whenever you want us to leave, Morella, there's no hurry-. He was nice, but there was hurry. I had to teach Sam, and I had to find out about Yellow Eyes' plans. And they had to find John. We had our hands full here.
-It's okay- I said, finally able to talk- I'm gonna start packin' now, so when things are ready here we can leave-
-Morella- Damon said- You don't have to stay. I can take care of things and you guys can go-. I was surprised. There was no time to think. I could stay here and do nothing useful, or I can go and do what I had to: prepare Sam and myself. So, of course, I was in for number one, without even blinking.
-Okay- I answered- What you guys think? - I didn't wanna sound bossy with them, so I asked.
-If you're okay with it, then so are we. The faster we can start the better- Dean said, obviously on the same page I was. I smiled to him.
-Alright, I'm gonna start packin' right now, so maybe you guys wanna sleep or something, and we can leave today?-
-Mmmm… I think we can leave tomorrow; one more day won't make such a difference- Sam said. I was kinda glad, 'cause I was feeling tired, and I needed some time, even a few more hours to say good bye to my old life.
And so it was. I went packing, Damon went to the lawyer's office, and the guys went to sleep. Maybe my nightmares had kept Dean awake last night. I felt self conscious about that. I didn't want them losing any sleep because of me.
The time alone helped a little. I could cry as I was packing. I felt a bit better after that, like maybe I wasn't in total denial. I thought about my father while I got all my pictures in my journal and smiled at the one with the three of us, laughing in Christmas Eve. It was beautiful. And now, I didn't have Dad anymore. And I could feel a little hole inside me, tearing me apart. It was hard to breath, and I had to sit in order to regain my control.
I was sitting there, still, when Dean showed up. I felt embarrassed but he didn't say anything about my position. So I let it go.
-Hey- he said opening the door- you need help?-
-No, I'm okay- I answered, and he smiled automatically, like he knew I wasn't okay, but wasn't gonna argue with me about it. I liked him even more for that.
-Alright then, if you need me just call, okay?-
-Yeah, okay- I agreed and he went away. And now that I could move again, I went outside to my car, to pick up my stuff. There were a lot of things there. Like my guitar, my lap top, which I haven't been able to move from the night before, my cds, more pictures, and finally, my guns. There were all in there, and I felt kinda empty taking it all out. Poor baby, my car, it was gonna be in Bobby's. I shivered at the thought. Then I smiled. Bobby was the best; he would take care of it.
I took all my stuff out, but then I realized I hadn't so many hands to catch them. So I called Dean. He came as fast as a fire man.
-Hey, you mind helping me with these?- I asked him.
-Sure, not problem- he said, and went for my guitar. He smiled.
-You play?- he asked me, though it was pretty obvious.
-Yeah- I answered, not really wanting to elaborate. But a different thought occurred to me.
-The girls- I whispered. Dean looked at me funny.
-What?- he asked.
-I have to say good bye to them, my friends. They're still at the university-
-Oh, okay- Dean blinked a few times- I can go with you if you want- he offered.
-Okay, that'd be nice- I thanked him.
-Let's get this inside and then we go, alright?-
-Alright- I nodded.
We got the things inside, Dean told Sam where we were going and then I went back to my car. I opened the door of my baby for maybe the last time in a long while. Dean got in, and he seemed amused at my choice of ride.
-You like it?- I asked for confirmation. He nodded.
-A classic- he said.
-Yeah, but a Corvette coupé doesn't compare to a 67 Impala- I teased.
-Good taste in music and cars. You're a catch- he tease right back. I could have sworn I blushed.
-Yeah I am- I smiled widely ignoring the double meaning as best as possible.
It was a quiet ride after that. Dean only asked a few more questions like the ones he asked last night, and he just seemed to enjoy the music. I did too, and I felt good not having to fill the silences like a talking-machine.
We got to Berkeley's campus in record time. Maybe I was a little nervous. I didn't wanna say good bye to my friends, but I didn't have much choice anyway. And having Dean with me made things a little bit more fun. I wanted to see how Penny would react. In fact, I'd pay to see that. Well, hopefully I wouldn't have to.
When I parked in front of our apartment, Dean asked
-You want me to wait here or you need my help?-
-I kinda need your help; I have a lot of books and clothes in there-. He nodded and we went out.
I got the keys out of my pocket fast, and opened the door. The room was exactly how we left it. The girls must've only slept here last night, and now they were out. Oh well, they'll come back someday I told myself.
I let Dean in, and he looked around. He seemed to agree with my taste as much as in my house. Then we started packing. It was so fun! Mind the sarcasm. I got the clothes, he got the books. I didn't want him going through my underwear drawer.
Twenty minutes later, I heard noises outside. They seemed to be the girls' voices.
-And you're so lying, you totally…- Penny was saying when he opened the door and saw us there. I laughed.
-Hey sis- I said smiling.
-Hi Ella- Penny answered, and then she looked at Sophie, who was as lost as her. I decided to make it easier for them.
-Get in, c'mon- I hurried them inside- This is Dean- I introduced- Dean, those are Penny- I gestured to Penny- and Sophie. They're my roommates-.
-Hello there girls- Dean said, all charming. They were shocked, it was very funny.
-He's here to help me pack…-
-You're leaving?- Sophie sorta yelled.
-Yeah, I am. Sorry guys, I don't have much choice-
-We heard about your dad- Penny said, hugging me- We're so sorry Ella-. I tried my best not to cry.
-It's okay. That's kinda the reason I'm leaving- I was gonna be as honest as I could, without freaking them out.
-Oh…- Penny whispered- alright. Well, we're gonna miss ya, sis- she smiled at me. Then I heard Sophie asked:
-Who's he? What's he doing here anyway?- referring obviously to Dean.
-He's mmm...- I got an idea that would make them all laugh- he's Bret Michaels' guitarist, I'm going on a tour with them- I smiled playfully.
-Oh- Sophie exclaimed. But Penny was on the same page as me.
-So… you get your own "Rock of Love" uh?-. And because of Dean's expression and Sophie's I laughed. Hard. I got tears in my eyes. It was hilarious. I was so right to do it.
-Yeah- I said between giggles- that's just it-. Dean looked kinda scared, which made me laugh even more.
-Okay…- he said- I'm gonna take this to the car- he gesture d to the boxes of books and clothes-
-Yeah, thanks- I answered, sobering up. And so he left, and we got a few minutes alone with the girls.
-He's hot- was the first thing Sophie said.
-Yeah, he is- I agreed.
-So? What's up with him?- Penny asked.
-Nothing, we're just friends, always been, since I were like, five years old. Our dads used to know each other, so he's helping me with some stuff-
-Oh, okay. So, when are you leavin'?- Penny asked, going straight to business, as always.
-Tomorrow morning- I answered. They seemed sad- I'm sorry guys, I really gotta go-
-We know it must be important, we just, wanted to help you, see if you needed support, after everything that happened-
-You're the best sisters ever- I said, hugging them- but I'm okay. I'll figure it out eventually, how to coexist with the pain-
-We're sorry Ella- Penny said, and then I started crying. I couldn't hold it anymore. I cried and I felt better, because I had my sisters with me.
-Thank you so much guys- I said, wiping my tears- And I'm sorry I don't have more time, but I really gotta go- Dean must've been waiting anyway.
-Call us or visit when you can darling, don't be a stranger- Penny said as she kissed me good bye. They knew a little about me that they didn't ask much. Wise of them actually.
-I won't- I promised, as I wondered if I could keep that promise. Only fate knows. I kissed and hugged them both, and then I left. I got to say good bye to them, now I was ready to hit the road.
As I walked outside I saw Dean already in the car. He had already put the things inside and was waiting for me. He was very considerate.
-Thanks- I said as I got in. He knew what I meant. He nodded.
-No problem. But, can I ask you something?-
-Sure- I said.
-Why Bret Michaels? Couldn't be someone else? Poison sucks-. I laughed. I didn't think I had it in me to laugh right then, but I did.
-Be careful what you say. Eighties' rock-. Now it was his turn to laugh.
-Yeah, yeah, whatever. I thought I taught you good-
-You totally did. But I can make my own choices, that you don't agree with it is a different thing-
-Alright, but no eighty music in my car. I don't wanna ruin the stereo-. I rolled my eyes.
-Drama queen- I muttered, but apparently he heard, because he smirked and looked the other way.
I sensed we were gonna get along just fine. Like we always did. If I didn't push my music in him and he keeps his opinion to himself. When we got home, Damon was already there, so he helped me getting my things out. I thought about saying goodbye to my brother, and I knew it was gonna be a thousand times more difficult. But, we still had the rest of the day and night. I was gonna use it wisely.
Back in the house, I started to fix dinner, 'cause I was starving. Sam and Dean were sitting in the kitchen while I cooked. Damon was packing some things he wanted to take.
-You still like to cook?- Sam asked me all of the sudden. I was making spaghetti with red sauce.
-Yeah, I do. I mean, I'm used to it. It relaxes me-
-Oh, that's nice-
-Yeah… I like the whole home concept, 'cause I have a place to be me for a while, without demons, ghost or diabolical master plans to worry about-. The guys chuckled.
-Yeah, it must be nice once in a while- Sam agreed.
-You can't imagine, Sam- I smiled at him, and it occurred to me that I hadn't talked to him much. So, to distract myself, I asked.
-Are you okay with this entire trainin' thing?-. He thought about it for a moment.
-Yeah- he said- I'm okay. If I can control them, then, bring it. 'Cause otherwise I'm screw, you know?-
-Yeah, I know the feeling- I said. I really hoped we'll get along. I liked them, they were nice people. And good persons. So I was hopeful something good would come out of that. Even if we've never done such thing. I was silent for a while, thinking. Dean and Sam were talking, about, a job maybe? I wasn't paying attention. But I was sure it was it. Dean said he got something, so we could go check in the morning. Apparently, it was a job in Illinois, so we had to leave early. Oh goody! I thought sarcastically. But if it kept me busy, then, I was okay with it.
I served dinner, and we ate in peace. An easy chat filling the room. We had lot in common, Damon and I and Dean and Sam, so we could relate to them in a very personal way. I was the little sister who had an uncertain future ahead. So was Sam. Damon was the overprotective big brother, and so was Dean. So, there, we could talk without being uncomfortable. And, besides, we kinda grew up together.
We finished dinner and Dean helped me clean up again. Then, like we were all tired, we went to sleep, this time Dean slept with Sam in the guest room. I was feeling better, and didn't need the company so much.
From what I could figure, Sam and Dean had talked about the training so they were both fine with it. Damon explained to Sam what I could do, and Sam told me what he could do. For now, strict vision's work. Not bad, these abilities tended to intensified with time. So, I had a pretty good idea what I was working with. And that made my job easier. I hoped I could help Sam, and find the answers I was looking for. I hoped I would get justice for my parents' deaths. And I really hoped we would kill Yellow Eyes before he hurt more innocent babies.
I fell asleep fast, the activities and emotional trauma catching up with me. And I had nightmares, so of course, the next morning I was tired. But after I drank some coffee I felt fine. Saying good bye to Damon was scaring me silly, I didn't wanna do it.
But I had to. Dean and Sam were waiting in the Impala for me. I was crying and hugging my brother like it was the last time I'll see him. I must've been pretty pathetic. But I didn't care really.
-Shush…It's okay- Damon whispered, caressing my hair- We'll be in touch. And if anything happens, you call me or Bobby, alright?- I nodded.
-Bye Ella, see you later- he said, letting me go. I wiped my tears, grabbed my bag and whispered
-See you- then I said louder- I love you Damon-
-Love you too sis- he answered.
I got in the car, and Dean put on the radio. Some classic music station. It was relaxing, so I lay down in the back seat and looked through the window. We were leavin Berkeley and my life behind. And I didn't feel lost. Because now I had a purpose, a goal. Help Sam, catch Yellow Eyes, and get this over with.
But a tiny part of my brain told me it wasn't gonna be so easy. And it was probably right. But, there was nothing else to do, so I had to accept it. Maybe enjoy a little, like Dean does, killing monsters. I could do that, it had been my job once upon a time. I just hope I wasn't rusty. I smiled lightly to myself. I had my control and focus, and then I'll be okay. And, I also had two guys who would protect me. So I was good after all.
I looked at Dean and he caught my glare in the rearview mirror. He smiled at me kindly. I sighed and grinned back. Then they started to talk about the case and I had to focus on the future, and not the past.
As we were leaving California I said good bye to my old home, and hello to my new one. I sensed the Impala was going to be like home for a few months. And I was okay with that. I liked the car. And the company. Sam and Dean were great. And they were good hunters, so we were gonna be safe. I couldn't ask for more.
I just wondered if I was doing the right thing jumping so fast to the road after my dad's death. Well, I was going to find out.