I don't own Supernatural.

A oneshot that just popped into my head while I was working on another Supernatural fic. Hope you like it!

"Dad's Gone, Sammy"

Dean's eyes followed his father as he went around the dingy motel room, picking up articles of clothing. Dean was only seven, but he knew the routine by now. When John left, he usually didn't come back for a few days.

"Where are you going this time?" Dean asked, swinging his feet as he sat on the edge of one on the beds. John stopped what he was doing and looked at his eldest son.

"Kentucky."

Dean nodded. He knew Kentucky was far away from where they were now, so it would be a long time before his dad got back. He had stopped asking where John went, because his father would just look at him with a stern gaze and say that it wasn't for children's ears. So eventually Dean gave up asking.

"I picked some food, it's in the kitchen. It should last until I get back. Keep the door locked and don't open it for anybody." John said, throwing his packed bag over by the door. "Here's some money, for emergencies. If you need help, you know my number and Bobby's number. If we don't answer, call Ellen. Alright?"

"Yes." Dean nodded. His father told him the same thing every time he left, and Dean knew by heart the next part of his little speech.

"Watch after your brother." John gestured towards the bed where little Sam was asleep, curled up beneath the blankets. "Keep him safe, Dean. I'm counting on you. Watch after Sammy, he's counting on you, too."

"Okay."

John regarded Dean for a moment before wrapping him up in a hug. He ruffled his son's hair affectionately before picking up his bag and smiling at Dean. "Take care, and stay safe. I'll be back."

Dean had the sudden urge to grab his father's arm and ask him to stay, as he did every time John left. But he had to be strong, he had to take care of Sammy. His dad had business to take care of, and he had to know that his boys would be safe.

John gave Dean a sad smile before leaving and closing the door behind him. Dean locked the door, and put his ear to it, listening to the Impala's engine as John turned the car on and sped away.

Sammy stirred in his bed and Dean hurried over, gazing down at his brother. Sam sat up, blinking blearily.

"Daddy?" he called, and Dean hushed him. "He left, but he'll be back, Sammy." Dean pulled back the covers and slipped into bed next to Sam.

"I want Daddy!" Sam cried, pushing Dean away.

"He's gone already."

Sam began crying, and Dean's heart broke. This didn't happen often, but sometimes Sam wanted John, and there was nothing that Dean could say to comfort him.

"Daddy!"

"It's okay, Sammy." Dean wrapped his brother in a tight hug and held him. Sam bawled into his shirt, and Dean patted his back. "I know Dad's not here, but I'll take care of you."

Dean held Sam until he cried himself to sleep, and then he made sure Sam was covered with the blankets before turning out the light. He put his arm back around Sam in the dark, and stared at his brother's figure as his eyes adjusted.

"I'll be here for you, Sammy. I'll always protect you. You can count on me." he whispered, and kept watch over his brother for the rest of the night.

Please review, cause Supernatural rules!