Disclaimer: Don't own 'em, just play with them. Winchesters and Supernatural owned by Kripke et al. at Evil Inc. No profits made by me

One year.

That was the deal.

One year for a tarnished soul so that another could live.

And now that year was up. The Hell Hounds snarl and howl as they chase down their quarry. The brothers know they are coming. It was happening.

"Sammy."

The younger Winchester raises his head but Dean doesn't turn around, the beautiful expanses of the Grand Canyon are his to absorb… He's already said his goodbyes.

"Time to go Sammy."

They had agreed to it before the time came - Dean didn't want Sam there in his last few moments as the Demon came to collect. Dean didn't want him to see. And Sam wanted to honour his wish, But Fuck. It. Hurts.

There is no tears in Sam's eyes as he takes in his brother one last time. Dean is at peace and Sam wants to remember him that way…

"Dean…"

"Sammy. Please." Dean pleads.

The sound of Sam's footsteps fade away. Still Dean doesn't turn. He can't face him; he can't watch him walk away.

He stares out into the void. There is so much beauty up here, he thinks to himself as he take it in.

The last year rolls over in his mind and he smirks. All Sammy's attempts to break the deal… so desperate to save his brother. Dean remembers the frustration but he had done nothing to help; he knew the consequences.

A rapidly ticking-down clock had forced them to finally accept what had to happen.

One last deep breath, eyes closed and Dean waits - The hounds are close.

….

Suddenly the silence is deafening.

Dean's eyes fly open and he spins around. There is nothing. No Hounds, no Demon.

No Sam.

"Sammy!"

No answer.

"Sam… No."

..: Fin :..