After getting settled into the room, I went out to join the boys. As I neared the library I heard their voices in a heated discussion. I only caught a couple of words like; My name, protected, don't push her, family, etc..

'Great', I thought, shaking my head, they were already plotting how to get me to stay. And I knew what each would be saying.

Dean would be all, she needs to be here so we can protect her, screw her independent BS, she's family, and we take care of our own.

Whether it was bred into him or thrust upon him, he always looked out for Sam and me. Running head first into trouble with no regard for his own well-being. And even though, of course, I could take care of myself, knowing that gruff demeanor hid a deep sense of loyalty and a strong protective nature warmed my heart.

And then Sam would be saying, she is a strong and very competent Hunter. Of course we want her here safe but if she feels pressured, she'll just bolt again. If it's her choice then she'll stick around.

And I loved that about Sam, his soothing presence. That and his need to let people make their own choices, even if he didn't like the outcome. Too many decisions had been forced on him, he always tried never to take choices from others.

I continued down the hall and then stepped into the library. Dean and Sam stopped arguing and looked over at me.

I put my hands on my hips and jokingly scold them."Geez, I can't leave you alone for a minute.. What are you fighting about now?"

Dean started to speak but Sam cut him off, " Just wondering about your welcome home dinner. Dean was thinking about getting everyone some burgers at the diner but I thought you might want to go with me and pick something yourself."

I could see the tightness in Dean's jaw. Sam was smart. The way I answered this would settle their real question.

I think quickly, "Well you know me, I'm a rebel, so how about a third option.. We can go out for a supply run, stop by the diner for a couple of pies. Then Dean can grill us some of those amazing gourmet burgers I've been thinking about for the last few hundred miles."

The brothers smiled, each believing they had gotten their answer.

Dean ruffled my hair, "Sure sweetheart, anything you want."

And Sam slung an arm around me, "You ready to go then?"

I could feel the slight blush tinting my cheeks, "Let me grab a coat." And then I sprinted from the room.

'C'mon.. Get a grip.' I thought as I entered my bedroom, willing my heart to stop beating out of mychest. 'A tiny bit of contact and I get all bent out of shape.'

I take a deep breath, grab my jacket and compose myself. Walking back to the library, I plaster a smile on my face and belt out, " Let's get this show on the road!"