"It Runs In The Family"
CONTENT WARNING: language and violence
A black 1965 Mustang hummed down the road as the sign read 'Welcome to Lawrence, Kansas'. The driver window was down and 'Bad Company' played on the stereo. The autumn air was rolling in and blew through her auburn hair as she inhaled the fresh cool air. Riley had one hand on the wheel and the other in the golden hair of the canine co-pilot that laid in her lap. She would never make it alone on her never ending hours on the road if she didn't have Finn by her side.
Riley was a simple girl. At 22, she'd been through more than anyone should ever have to endure. Though her face was young, her aged soul showed. She was mature beyond her years in the best and worst ways. She always tried to appear a little rough around the edges. How jaded she still showed, but she lived with her heart as her compass, that's how dad raised her.
With the life she lived, you'd think she'd be taller, but she never let her smaller stature stop her from anything. "You don't need to be a man to kick ass," dad used to say. She smelled of her favorite black leather jacket that she always wore and the only perfume she ever used. A ring on her right hand, that she never took off, glistened in the light. It was silver, simple; it was mom's.
It was always so good to come home, she only wished was under better circumstances. Riley tried to brush off the thought that evil had come to her hometown, and focused on the quiet roads. Every time she came to town, it was like she had never left. Nothing really changed in Lawrence, but that was one of the best things about it. Small 'mom and pop' shops lined the street and the trees had begun to softly litter the ground with colored leaves.
She couldn't wait to get to Debbie's. It had been too long since her last visit with her aunt and the idea of home brought warmth to her chest. Riley wanted to stop at the local florist to pick up Deb's favorite flowers. She knew lilies always made her aunt smile.
Riley slowly pulled into a parking spot and the car came to a stop. She pat Finn on the head, "be right back, buddy." The sleepy pup laid back down on the leather seat and fell back into a peaceful sleep waiting for his best friend. The car door closed and she began to walk towards the shop.
A husky voice close by spoke up, "that's a great car."
Riley turned to the stranger and saw a tall man in a leather jacket leaning against a gorgeous classic car.
A smirk curled up on his face and she smiled back. "Thanks. I can say the same for yours. That's a beautiful Impala. A '67 right?"
His smile grew and a spark lit up in his eyes. "Yeah, that's right. You know your cars, huh?"
She walked closer to him and crossed her arms as the cold breeze hit her. "Dad was a bit of a grease monkey. Cars were something he never could shut up about."
At a closer glance, Riley saw his hypnotic hazel-green eyes and the small freckles that peppered his face. His hair was a shorter, sandy blonde and fit him perfectly. His full lips caught her eye and she tried not to stare. Riley took a moment to notice how his jeans hugged him just right but quickly tried to hide the thought.
The stranger let out a throaty chuckle and said, "my dad too. Looks like we were raised right. I'm Dean by the way." He reached his hand out for hers, and she took it in return.
"Riley."
Her name hit something in Dean and he was captivated. Her piercing blue eyes stared back at him and for a second he was lost in them. Something about her was intoxicating.
"So, you from around here?" he asked.
"Yeah. Lawrence is home. Just came in for a visit."
"Same." He grinned at the beautiful woman in front of him, trying to play it as cool as he could. Riley made him nervous but in a way that made him want to ride out the high she gave him. Dean couldn't help but take in every part of her; The way her hair fell in her face, how she curved in all the right places, and how her smile was something you wouldn't believe unless you saw it.
"Well, I gotta run an errand and get going. It was nice to meet you, Dean." Riley began to walk away, her boots softly crunching the leaves beneath her.
Dean didn't want her to go, he had to get to know her. Somehow he knew, she was something special. "Hey, Riley!" Dean called out as he caught up to her.
She turned to him with a smile, trying to hide how glad she was that he didn't just let her leave.
"I'm gonna be in town for a bit and have some time to kill. Would you maybe want to get together later? Dinner?"
Her heart fluttered as she tried to calm her excitement. "Sure. Do you know Debbie's Diner?" she asked.
"Yeah. Best burgers in town. They make a mean apple pie."
"I couldn't agree more. Wanna meet me there around seven tonight?"
He flashed a smile that made her weak in the knees. It reached up his face and made the corner of his eyes crinkle.
"It's a date" Dean replied.
She smirked back at him revealing dimples that he immediately fell for, "see you then". Riley turned to walk away, making sure to saunter just a bit to keep his attention.
Dean couldn't help himself as he watched her walk into the florist shop. She was a knockout.
Filled with anticipation for the night to come, he hopped in the Impala and backed out of his spot. Dean wished he didn't have to wait another minute to see her again. But, with a grin on his face and a fire in his eyes, he imagined the night to come.
Grabbing her duffle bag and the new flowers from the back seat, Riley got out of the car. Finn jumped out right behind her. He was wagging his tail with excitement knowing exactly where they were.
She walked to the back of the diner and went to the employee entrance. A small break room that looked more like a family room, was warm and simply decorated. Couches, a tv, coffee table, and a rug took up most of the room. Riley pointed to the couch and Finn hopped on. She kissed his head and walked into the back entrance of the diner.
As she took a step onto the tile, the familiar smell of Debbie's best pies filled the air. The hiss of the fryer in the background making her famous fries made Riley's mouth water and soft music played overhead. She took a deep breath and let out a sigh as she whispered to herself, "home."
Riley saw Debbie and crept up behind her. "Surprise!"
Debbie let out a small yelp and turned around. Her eyes widened and her smile grew too big for her face. "Riley!" She embraced her niece tight and didn't want to let her go. Riley was the daughter she never had and she missed her so desperately it hurt. After a moment she let go and gave a small tap to the side of Riley's head. "You scared the crap outta me."
Riley chuckled, "sorry, Deb. But I come bearing a peace offering." She handed her the lilies and Deb knew she couldn't even remotely be upset.
"Oh, honey, I missed you so much. I didn't even know you were gonna be in town. Why didn't you call?" Deb asked.
"Well, I came in for work and thought I would surprise you."
Debbie's joy fell a little knowing exactly what 'work' meant. She hated what her niece did. The job took her whole family from her, and the idea of losing Riley made her chest ache.
Suddenly, Riley could feel the pain swell in her aunt. It turned her stomach and she felt fear, worry, and concern all at once. She was left dumbfounded, unsure of what was happening.
"This isn't the life I wanted for her. Why can't I convince her to stay?"
Riley froze but, Aunt Deb never spoke a word. "Did I just…hear her thoughts? Feel her emotions? No. That's impossible," she thought before shaking it off and blamed it on exhaustion. She had been driving for a full day. Of course, she was tired.
"Well, I gotta get these into a vase. Make yourself at home, but don't think I won't put you to work later."
Riley chuckled, "yes ma'am. Uh, Deb? Do I smell fresh–"
"You and your pie," Deb cut in. "I'll grab you a slice."
Riley grinned from ear to ear and gave her another hug. She took a deep breath and inhaled the smell of fresh food and her aunt's vanilla shampoo, one of her favorite scents. "I'm so glad to be home, Deb."
Dean was nervous and that rattled him. He wasn't used to the knots in his stomach. He was good with girls and he knew it. But this one was different. She did something to Dean and he was dying to find out what that was.
He let out a heavy exhale and ran his fingers through his hair. Getting out of the car, he straightened his leather jacket and headed towards the diner.
He opened the door and a soft bell jingled. Dean didn't see Riley and was happy that he was there before her. There was a sign that read 'please seat yourself. We'll be with you shortly.' He found a booth in the corner and sat down on the red padded seat. Fiddling with his hands and looking out the window, he was hoping she wouldn't blow him off. He had been looking forward to seeing her again since the moment she walked away.
A familiar appealing voice spoke out. "Hey, glad you made it." He looked up and saw those big blue eyes that he hadn't been able to get out of his head. Dean couldn't believe he hadn't made Riley up in a dream.
"Wouldn't have missed it," Dean replied.
"Want a beer?" she asked.
"Absolutely."
Riley walked away and went behind the counter. Dean watched her with his brow arched, confused as to why she was just helping herself. He saw Riley grab two bottles and pop them open, bringing one to her lips and taking a sip while walking back.
She put the bottles down and sat across from the smile that gave her butterflies.
He looked at her and chuckled, "you know, they don't like it when you serve yourself."
She tried to stifle a laugh while taking another sip from her beer. "I probably should have mentioned, this is my Aunt's diner. This is kind of like my home."
"That makes a lot more sense. I was thinking you might just be a little wild," he smirked.
"Oh, honey. You have no idea."
His eyes widened at her response. Her confident banter was beyond sexy and made her only more enticing.
Aunt Debbie walked to the table and pulled a pad and pen out from her white apron. "Hey, Riley. Want to introduce your friend?"
"Of course. Aunt Deb, this is Dean."
Dean shook her hand. "Nice to meet you, ma'am."
"Ma'am? Damn. When did I get old?"
They all let out a small laugh. Debbie took a moment and a look of recognition came over her face. Though she thought she might have known the boy, she didn't want to embarrass Riley and ask too much. Debbie returned to focus and asked, "you kids wanna order?"
Dean motioned to Riley for her to go first. "Just the usual, Deb. Cheeseburger and fries."
Dean loved that she didn't order a salad or something ridiculous and tasteless. A woman who appreciated good food was a turn on all on its own.
"And for the handsome one?" Debbie asked looking at Dean.
Riley rolled her eyes and pulled her lips together. Of course, Deb would say something like that.
Dean looked down and let out a shy laugh. Looking back up he gave a soft smile and said, "I'll have the same."
"Coming right up." She shot the two a wink and quickly returned behind the counter.
The two were finally alone. There was a moment of silence where they just smirked and soaked up being together.
"So, tell me about yourself, Dean," Riley said in a calm and flirty tone.
"Well, I'm from here, I have a little brother, I love cars and have a slightly unhealthy obsession with classic rock."
Riley laughed and replied, "I'm the same way. I'm a sucker for when music was actually good. Def Leppard, AC/DC, Guns 'n Roses, Led Zeppelin…I have too many favorites to name."
Dean couldn't believe his luck. She was literally the perfect woman. "You know," he said coolly, "Not a lot of girls are into all of that. I'm pleasantly surprised." He took a sip from his beer.
"Well, Dean. I'm definitely not like most girls." Her smirk was trouble and he loved it. "My dad and I were always listening to music together. It was something that we both loved. Some of my best memories are of us belting out our favorites during our long drives."
"Sounds like you and dad are pretty close huh?"
Riley's eyes cast down and her face changed. "Dad, uh–he passed away about a year ago now."
He saw the pain in her face and felt guilty for the question. "I'm so sorry."
"Thanks–definitely miss him," she said choking on a lump in her throat. She downed a large swig of the beer, put it on the table and fiddled with it in her hands trying to get out of her head. Riley had to change the subject. "What about you? You close with your parents?"
Dean sighed and wasn't sure how to explain his relationship with his dad. God only knew how complicated that was. "Uh–dad and I are pretty close. He raised me and my brother. Mom died when we were kids."
"I lost my mom as a kid too. It was just me and dad. Now, Deb is all the family I got. Well, her and Finn."
"Finn?"
"Finnick. My golden retriever. Kinda my partner in crime. He's in the back. Can't have dogs in the diner."
Dean let out a soft chuckle.
They got lost in conversation, talking about anything and everything. He made her laugh, and she needed that. Riley loved that he thought she was funny and his laugh was genuine; it ran up her skin like a warm hug. Time stopped and the two of them let go of the world for just a little while.
After the burgers and fries were demolished and multiple beers were downed, Debbie stopped by the table with two pieces of fresh pie.
Dean's eyes lit up. "Oh God, yes," he mumbled as the smell wafted his way.
The two ate their pie and Dean got up the courage to ask what's been on his mind. "So, Riley, how the hell does a girl like you not have a boyfriend?" He didn't notice his mouth was still somewhat full as he mumbled his words.
She smirked, finding him endearing as she took a bite of the warm pie. Swallowing her food, Riley added, "well, I don't stay in one place long. Kind of hard to build a relationship when you're always on the road."
Dean felt like she was singing his song. Somehow, she understood him. "I know that feeling all too well. Work keeps me traveling a lot."
"What do you do?" she asked.
Careful not to reveal too much he answered, "uh–it's a family business. We do a little bit of everything."
Riley scoffed with a smile. "Well, that was vague."
He laughed. "I like to be a little mysterious. What about you?"
It was her turn to omit her full truth. "We're kind of a family business too. Odd jobs here and there–just all over the place."
He looked at her and felt she was hiding something, just like he was. Dean decided not to press it further though.
After their plates were finished, they stood up to leave. Riley hugged Debbie and told her she'd be back soon.
"Be safe, sweetheart," Deb told her niece. "It was nice to meet you, Dean."
"Likewise, ma'am."
"Oh, for the love of god, please call me Debbie."
"The food was delicious by the way." Dean smiled and put his hand out to give her some cash.
"Oh no, honey. It's on the house. Here, I packed you a pie to go. Seems like you enjoyed it."
Dean was all too happy with his gift. "Thank you, Debbie. I'll definitely be back for more."
The two walked out of the diner and slowly meandered towards his Impala. Walking side by side, they took their time with every step, not wanting to say goodnight. Normally, Dean would have already offered to take her back to his room, but not with Riley, it was different. She wasn't just some chick he wanted to have a one night stand with. Dean wanted to see if there was something more; that thought alone was enough to terrify him.
The parking lot behind the diner was poorly lit and next to a quiet alleyway. The moon gave more light than the street lamps but it was the perfect setting. Dean leaned against the car and looked up at the stars. One of his favorite things about Kansas was you could always see the night sky. Riley gazed up as well and they both sighed feeling the comfort of home.
"Dinner was great. Your aunt sure knows how to cook," said Dean as his take-out bag crinkled in his hand.
"Yeah. She's amazing. She seemed to really like you."
"Good. I don't always do great with first impressions."
"Well, you did just fine with me." Riley bit her bottom lip, a smile showing through.
Dean let out a quiet laugh and their eyes locked. He was lost in hers and her in his. There was an electricity between them and it was like gravity was pulling them together. Riley took a step closer to him and his free hand brushed her hair behind her ear. She was so beautiful and Dean felt his stomach flip as he glanced down at her lips.
"I had a really good time tonight, Dean."
"Me too. I'm glad I got the guts to ask you out."
She laughed and replied, "me too."
It was then that they realized the gap between them had closed. They quietly looked at each other waiting for the other to make a move. Dean put a hand gently on the side of Riley's face and her breath hitched. Her hands found his chest and felt his cool leather jacket under them. They inched closer, both feeling lightheaded as their lips nearly touched.
Suddenly, there was a loud crash that came from the alley and they both jumped to look in that direction. It instantly went quiet, eerily quiet.
Without any further warning, a snarling creature with long fangs shot out from the darkness and lunged at the couple. The vampire charged at Dean first and went straight for his neck. Dean absently dropped his bag and punched the creature in the face. He then shoved the monster away with full force.
Both Riley and Dean shouted to each other in unison, "get behind me!" They shared a look of confusion but they knew the questions would have to wait.
Just as the vamp got up to lunge back at them, two more came out from behind them. They were outnumbered.
As Dean went for the two to his right and Riley went for his original attacker. Dean pulled out his gun, but before he could shoot, he was grabbed and thrown feet away onto the hard asphalt, the gun falling out of his hand.
Riley unsheathed the knife from her boot and brought it up ready to fight. The creature pinned her to the wall as they both fought for power over the knife.
A deep voice rang out from somewhere nearby, "Dean!" A tall young man with shaggy hair came running into the fray with a machete ready to aid Dean. He quickly came up behind the third vamp and sliced its head clean off.
Dean grabbed the gun and fired several rounds into one of the vamps and it fell to the floor in agony. He yelled out in worry "Riley!" and ran in her direction.
Riley finally overpowered the creature and stabbed him in the gut only slowing it down. She pushed him against the wall and quickly grabbed the lid from the metal trash can next to her. With all her might, Riley plunged it into the vampire's throat and decapitated the monster.
Dean stopped in his tracks with shock on his face.
As she wiped off the blood that had splattered onto her face, Riley turned to Dean. All three were out of breath, not sure what to make of what just happened.
The remaining vampire laid on the ground, groaning in agony. Dean and his partner sauntered over to it and hovered above. "What the hell did you do to me?" the monster snarled.
"Those are dead man's bullets, you son of a bitch."
Riley quickly strode in with that same lid, slamming it down and finishing the creature.
There was silence as they all panted. Dean turned to Riley, "you're a hunter?!"
"You're a hunter?!" she replied in shock.
"Yeah. We came into town hearing about a vamp nest nearby."
"Me too."
Still catching their breath, no one knew what to say until Dean finally motioned to the new hunter. "This is my brother Sam. Sam, this is Riley."
She looked up at the brother. He looked so young, handsome like his brother, but in his own way. He had soft hazel eyes and his brown hair swept over his forehead.
Riley had a realization that struck her like a bus. "Wait–Sam and Dean? As in Sam and Dean Winchester? John's kids?"
The brothers stared at each other and Sam finally spoke up with an incredulous look. "Uh–yeah. Do we know you?"
"Your dad was my dad's hunting buddy."
"Who was your dad?" Dean asked.
"Jackson Munroe."
Dean's eyes grew. "Jack Munroe? He and dad hunted together for years. He was a hell of a hunter." He let out a heavy exhale of disbelief. "I can't believe you're Jack's daughter."
"Dad didn't do too well hearing about Jack last year. I'm so sorry, Riley," Sam added.
Riley nodded in gratitude as she pulled her knife from the vamp. She cleaned it on the creature's shirt and sheathed it again. "How's your dad by the way? I haven't seen John in a while."
Sam scoffed, "yeah, join the club."
Dean scowled at Sam and then turned back to Riley. "We're actually looking for him right now. He went on a hunting trip and we haven't heard from him in a while."
"It's John Winchester. I wouldn't be too worried," she said. They found themselves in that familiar silence again. "Well, I don't know about you two, but I could use a drink. My aunt has an apartment above the diner. I know she has some whiskey hidden upstairs."
"I am definitely not gonna turn that offer down," Dean answered with a tired smirk.
While Riley dragged one of the corpses off to the dumpster, Sam grabbed Dean's shoulder and turned him towards him. "That's the girl you went out with tonight?"
"Yeah. She's incredible. Did you see her? Dude, she's a total badass." He smiled like an excited kid as he tapped his brother's chest.
Sam let out a breathy chuckle in agreeance and they both went to help Riley remove the evidence of their violent supernatural encounter.
The three hunters stepped into a small apartment; it was cozy and welcoming. Pictures of the Munroe family made it feel like a real home. Riley closed the door behind them and a happy dog came running to her. He jumped up to hug her and she rubbed his back. "Hey, Finn. You been a good boy?" He got down, stood next to her, and observed the strangers.
Sam bent down and Finn went to smell him. The Winchester pet him and the dog wagged his tail in appreciation. "What a beautiful dog," Sam said. "I always wanted one. Dean's not exactly a huge fan of dogs."
Dean gave Sam a nasty look and then shot back to Riley with a big cheesy smile. "I like dogs–I do. He doesn't know what he's talking about." Riley turned with a questioning expression on her face and Dean slugged Sam in the arm. "Dude, not cool."
Riley went to the kitchen, grabbed glasses from the shelves, and found the bottle of whiskey stashed under the sink. The boys went to the table and she brought everything to join them. Finn settled next to her chair and laid his head on her feet.
As Riley poured the glasses, Dean let out a scoff. "Man, what are the odds? I mean, it's Lawrence, small town…but still."
Taking a drink, Riley sighed as it burned in her throat. "You're not wrong."
Sam let out a throaty chuckle. "Life's funny that way, I guess."
The front door opened and Deb walked in, her apron draped over her arm as her fingers worked to take her hair out of its tied up bun. Finn ran to greet her and she rubbed his head before looking up. "Oh, didn't know we were having company. Dean, nice to see you again."
"You too, Debbie. This is my brother, Sam."
Her eyes grew wide and Riley chuckled before telling her, "yup, Sam and Dean Winchester." She turned to the brothers. "And yes, Aunt Deb knows all about it."
"I knew I recognized that face. Dean, I haven't seen you since you were a kid. And Sam…my god, you were just a baby." Deb pulled up a chair and joined the group. "Now that love of pie makes so much sense. You were the same way as a little boy," she said eyeing Dean.
Dean let out a small gasp of frustration as he remembered his forgotten to-go bag. "Dammit! I dropped my pie back in the alley."
Debbie laughed, "don't worry, honey. There's plenty where that came from." She got up, grabbed two pies from the refrigerator and some forks, and brought them to the table. "Dig in. We don't need plates when we're with family." Dean lit up with excitement and went right for the pie as Riley did the same. "So, the Winchesters are back in Lawrence. Is your dad with you?"
"We're only in town for a case. Dad's out kind of doing his own thing right now," Dean said with a full mouth.
"You boys came in for the vamp nest, didn't you?"
"Yes, ma'am," Sam chimed in.
Dean shook his head with his cheeks stuffed, "mm-mm. She doesn't like that. Gotta call her Debbie."
Sam, being slightly embarrassed by his brother, returned to his conversation. "So, you know all about the job?"
"Oh, yes," she replied. Deb lifted a small bite of pie to her mouth, chewed and swallowed, followed by a sigh. "My brother was a hunter. Cost him his damn life."
Sadness fell over Riley's face. She hated that her aunt still hurt so deeply. Not to mention how disappointed she was that Riley was following in her father's footsteps.
"We heard about Jack. We were all so sad to hear of his passing," Sam added. "If you don't mind me asking, we never really heard what happened."
Riley put her fork down, ran her hand through her hair as it fell back in her face and she took a deep breath. Dean could see the pain in her eyes and put his hand on top of hers that sat on the table. She looked at him and could see he genuinely cared. He was calming her. How he was able to do that already was beyond her comprehension.
"Dad had been hunting down the thing that killed mom for as long as I can remember. That's why he became a hunter. I don't even remember my mom. I was only six months old when she died. The night he died," Riley paused as she swirled the liquid in her glass. "He didn't tell me anything was wrong. He said 'he had to handle some business' and went alone. I would have never let him go if I had known something was gonna happen." Riley choked back tears and cleared her throat before her jaw twitched with a hint of anger. "God help that yellow-eyed son of a bitch if he's what took my dad from me."
"Wait a minute. Was your dad after a demon? A demon with yellow eyes?" Dean asked.
Both Riley and Deb's faces went white. They looked at each other and then back at Dean as they both froze.
Debbie's voice cracked in her throat. "H–how did you know that?"
"Because that's the same thing that killed our mom too." Sam's face was in disbelief as he answered her. "Dean, Jack must have been working with dad on the case the whole time. We always knew they went on hunts together but they never really talked about them with us."
Deb took a breath and continued, "he was gone so much. Riley was just a baby and spent a lot of her time with me–I practically raised her. But whenever Jackson would come back home, he would teach her everything he could about hunting. I hated every second of it. Watching her learn to handle a gun when she was only in kindergarten made me sick. But, Riley wanted to be a 'hero' just like her daddy. I knew I couldn't stop her, no matter how hard I tried." She grabbed her glass and downed the last bit of whiskey, trying to stifle her emotions. "And then one day 'Riley was old enough to hunt'," she scoffed in annoyance. "She was just a child, but she didn't want to be away from her father and wanted to help him find the creature that killed her mom."
"Deb, it was never easy leaving you. I didn't want to leave, but I had to." Riley reached her hand to Debbie's and squeezed. "You were like a mom to me. That never changed." Deb returned the loving gesture and exhaled.
"So, you hunt alone now?" Dean asked, surprised.
"Yup. Well, Finn comes too…sometimes. He's mostly there for the company on the rides and in the motels, but he's saved my life a couple times. He's the only partner I've ever had besides dad." She reached under the table and pet the sleeping dog.
"Well," Deb sighed as she stood up. "I have to go close the diner and clean up. Riley, you're off the clock tonight. Stay here and enjoy the rest of your night." She kissed Riley's head and looked to the boys. "It was nice to see you both."
"You too," replied Dean. "Thanks for everything."
Debbie gave a half-smile and headed out the door.
Riley stood to clear the table and Sam stopped her, "I got it," he told her.
She realized that Dean had never let go of her hand. They had absently intertwined their fingers and found comfort in each other. She glanced at him and their eyes locked. That electricity was there again and they could feel it in the air around them.
Sam quickly cleaned up and then turned to see the two of them. He cleared his throat reminding them that he was still there. "Well, I'm gonna head back to the motel. Thanks for everything, Riley. It was really nice to meet you."
"You too, Sam."
The brothers exchanged looks and Dean nodded in his direction as to say, 'I'll be there in a bit'. Sam acknowledged the notion, pat the dog, and left.
Finally, they were alone again. "Come on." Riley grabbed her glass with her free hand, and with the other lead Dean to the couch. He quickly took his glass as well.
The couch was dark blue and incredibly clean. Dean was impressed with how neat and tidy Deb kept her home.
They both sat down and looked at each other. "I gotta admit, Winchester, I did not see tonight going the way it did."
He let out a throaty laugh. "Definitely not." He searched for the right words. "You're incredible though, Riley. You just keep surprising me."
"In all good ways, I hope."
She smirked at him and he felt chills go up his neck. "In all the best ways," he said. She smiled and took a drink. Pausing, Dean gathered the courage to keep talking. "You were right–you're not like most girls. You're something different altogether. …I don't think there's anyone like you." He looked up and caught her eye as the charge surging between them only grew.
"Listen," he said, putting down both their drinks. "I gotta do this before something stops me again or I'm gonna regret it." Dean pushed her hair away from her face and took her chin in his hand. Slowly, the space between them closed and their lips touched. Riley felt a spark in her that she never had with anyone else. It was terrifying but amazing. He was amazing.
As the kiss intensified, her hands slipped behind his neck and his other hand found her hip. They pulled each other close together and began to lose themselves in the moment. The rest of the world faded. The pain, the stress, the monsters, gone. All that existed was them.
Dean ran his hands through her hair as she pulled him close by his jacket. "I'm not gonna let this girl go," Dean thought to himself before slowly laying her down on the couch, their kiss never breaking.
The next morning, the boys drove down the main strip of town, the sound of Baby rumbling beneath them. That Chevy was the only home Sam and Dean had ever known.
Dean flipped open his phone to reveal a message from Riley: 'come in through the back. See you soon'.
A Blue Oyster Cult song played softly from Dean's go-to cassette tape. Sam broke the silence saying, "so, you sure you wanna see Riley after your night together? I've never seen you do that before."
Dean knew he was right. "It's not like that, Sammy. We kissed, that's all. And yeah, I definitely want to see her."
Sam was pleasantly surprised by his brother's response and nodded in understanding.
After turning off the engine, they stepped out of the car, the doors creaking behind them as they slammed shut. As they walked around the back, they saw the diner in the daylight. Memories from the night before played in their minds. Remnants of blood that couldn't be scrubbed away were still staining the concrete.
Opening the door, the brothers stepped inside. Riley was sitting cross-legged on the couch with papers, newspapers and a map sprawled around her on one side and Finn on the other. She glanced up, trying to not seem too eager to see Dean. "Hey, guys. Good morning."
"Morning," they both replied.
Dean sat on a single chair close to Riley, and Sam made himself comfortable on the longer end of the sofa as he greeted Finn. The golden pup was already a fan of the youngest Winchester.
Riley sipped her coffee and nodded towards the side table. "There's a fresh pot if you want some, help yourselves."
Dean got up and poured two mugs full, giving one to Sam and then returning to his chair. He looked at Riley and studied her. She was just as beautiful in the morning. Her hair up in a messy bun and glasses that were sexy as hell rested on her nose. She was wearing sweats, a Led Zeppelin t-shirt, and socks. Riley didn't even have to try to impress Dean. It happened so naturally.
"So whatcha got?"
"Looks like all the attacks have been up north on the furthest skirts of town towards the city of Midland."
Sam chimed in. "I did some digging and saw that there have been attacks littered over the last 25 years. Usually was only one here and there, so it didn't look like more than a few stragglers."
"Yeah, well, with the death toll piling up, and the visit from our friends last night, I'd say it's a safe bet we have a full-blown nest now." Riley pushed everything to the side to focus on the conversation and the warm coffee in her two cupped hands. She always joked about how the smell of coffee would 'wake up her soul' as she was not a morning person.
"Ok, so what's the plan?" Dean asked while he sipped his coffee thinking how much he couldn't focus without it in the mornings.
"I say we stake it out tonight. If we think we can handle it, we go in. If not, we gather intel and we'll regroup for tomorrow. At least if we're there, they can't leave without us knowing," Riley added.
"Sounds good to me. Guess we have the day to kill," Dean said with hope in his voice. Sam knew where his brother was going with his thoughts and smiled at the thought of Dean being so keen to be with this new girl.
"Well, let's go grab some breakfast and we'll make plans from there. I am in dire need of more coffee. I'll go change and meet you in the diner." Riley got up and pat her side for Finn to follow.
Dean couldn't help but watch her every move and she knew it.
"Great! I'm starving" Sam shot out in response.
"Meet you in ten."
After a day of lounging in Aunt Deb's apartment, copious amounts of delicious food, and a couple of classic movies, it was time for the hunters to head out. After grabbing her gear and giving a kiss on Finn's soft head, Riley followed the boys out to the car.
Dean popped the trunk to check on their supplies while the sun set softly behind them. The sky was barely lit with beautiful orange and yellow colors coming over the horizon. Riley gazed down into the trunk and was thrilled with all the different 'hunter toys' it held.
"Oh, my god." She pulled out a baseball bat wrapped in barbed-wire and grinned as she admired it. "This is so badass."
Dean chortled admiring the weapon as well. "That's one of dad's favorites."
"Don't think I won't be taking a swing with this baby at some point."
Sam let out a playful sigh. "My God, there's two of them."
After Riley and Dean exchanged a flirty glance, they shut the trunk and walked around Baby. Sam went to the front passenger door and opened it for Riley.
"Such a gentlemen" she teased.
After all three were in the car, Dean started the engine and turned up the music. "Let's do this."
Night had fallen as the Impala's lights shut off and rolled to a stop. It hid behind some brush just shy of a rusted metal gate that lead up to private property. From there, they could still watch to make sure no one left the cabin on the hill. A beat-up old van sat next to it and warm lights came seeping out of the house windows.
Quiet surrounded the car with only the sound of crickets chirping around them.
"Did you happen to get maps for the property? Do we know if there's a way out on the other side?" Riley was frustrated that she wasn't able to find them while researching.
"No," Sam responded.
"Dammit."
Dean saw an opportunity to get a moment with Riley and formulated a plan. He put his arm over the seat and looked back at Sam in the back. "Well, Sammy, how about we stay here and you do recon around the property? You can come back and let us know what you find." A look of 'play along' sat eagerly on his face.
Sam rolled his eyes. "Sure. Why not?" he said with annoyance in his voice. Grabbing a flashlight and packing his gun into his hip, he got out of the car and tried to close the door gently.
Dean peeked his head through the crack in the window and whispered, "take your time. No rush."
Sam rolled his eyes again and began his trudge down the road, keeping his eyes peeled.
With Sam no longer in view, Riley and Dean were alone again. They both had been hoping all day for the moment that would happen. Riley couldn't tell if the night before meant as much to him as it did to her. Maybe it was just a playful moment together after a fight, leftover adrenaline egging them on. What she didn't know was Dean had been aching to kiss her again all day as he replayed their time on the couch together again and again.
Finally, he broke the silence. "Listen, at the risk of sounding like a complete idiot," Dean stopped and laughed under his breath. "I really like you. I had a great time with you last night. Even if it was interrupted by blood-crazed monsters." They both let out breathy giggles. "But had that not happened, I may have never seen what a kick-ass hunter you are."
Riley's stomach flipped. Knowing that she impressed him filled her with pride that she couldn't contain. Watching him in the fray the night before turned her on in ways she was definitely surprised by. "Last night was pretty awesome. Definitely my most interesting date so far."
Dean's lips pressed together while a smile grew behind them. She looked so perfect. There hadn't been a moment since they met that he didn't think so.
Riley bit her lip catching his gaze and it was happening all over again. With heated eyes, Dean leaned in and pressed his lips to hers. Their eyes shut as they were both lost in the gentle moment between them. They broke apart only to softly smile and look at each other once again and a fire grew in their stomachs. Breathing heavily and not able to take it another second, the two crashed their lips together and pulled each other closer than they thought possible. And yet, it still wasn't close enough. Dean's hands were everywhere; grabbing at her sides, her face, in her hair and on her neck. Riley tugged at his shirt and pulled at the nape of his neck while the short hairs rubbed against her hand. The two hunters were completely lost in each other, even forgetting they were on a case.
The back door opened and they both jumped to look back at Sam getting in the car. Sam hesitated when he saw the couple. "Oh, I'm sorry, should I come back?" he asked sarcastically.
"Shut up, Sammy. What did you find out?" Dean asked trying to catch his breath.
"This is their only way out. If they leave, we'll know it. I was able to get a view into the window and heard them talking. They're pissed about the three vamps we took out last night. Losing them apparently brought their nest down to four. They know it happened behind the diner and they plan to hit it hard."
Riley's eyes grew with anger and a hint of panic at the thought of Deb getting hurt. "That's it. I say we handle these bastards now. No way in hell am I letting them near my home."
Dean loved seeing that side of her, the hunter side. She was always ready for a fight and clearly had true loyalty to her. It made her that much more attractive and he wanted her even more. With Dean's mind set on being by her side and raring to go, he looked at her and then Sam. "Agreed. Sam, you in?"
"Let's go," the younger brother replied.
The three got out quietly and grabbed their gear. A gun on each of their hips, knives hidden in boots or sheathed in jackets, and a machete in hand, Riley reached for the bat. She gave a look that sent chills up Dean's spine and drove him wild while her hands tightened their grip around it.
With purpose and intensity, the three strode up the hill, ready for whatever awaited them behind that cabin door.
The remaining four vampires sat in the main room venting their anger in front of a roaring fireplace. Thirsty for blood and revenge, one of the men with black hair and a large build hissed under his breath. "I'm not waiting. Those fuckin' hunters took out our kin. They die tonight." With the rest of the nest in agreeance, they got up ready to leave.
Just as their decision was made, the door was kicked open. It swung with force and slammed against the wall. Chips from where the door met the frame splintered out.
Riley went in first, determined to lead the group. Taking large controlled strides into the house, Riley swung the bat with abandon and hit the black-haired monster in the head, caving in the side of his skull. He hit the floor and she swung another two times ensuring that he was down.
Dean and Sam went in opposite directions ready to take their part in the fight. Punches were thrown and the youngest Winchester took a blow to the jaw that caused him to falter back, but Sam shook it off and charged back at the creature.
On the other side of the room, Dean faced off with a long-haired vampire in a leather vest. As they danced around a bit, trying to corner each other, he looked at the vamp. "You know, you reek of 'douchebag', right?." The vested animal let his rage take over and rushed at Dean. The perfect opportunity came for the hunter to duck away. He turned and sliced the vampire's head off its shoulders. Turning around still riding the high of the kill, he removed the head of the other monster that was fighting his brother.
Riley, face to face with the only remaining creature, was met with the face of a woman with a pixie haircut. Her teeth were bared and she snarled at the hunter. "You, bitch! You come into our house and kill my family?"
A cocky smile grew on Riley's face as she tensed around the bat and jested, "better yours than mine, you piece of shit." After a couple of swings and misses, the vampire lost her step and was met with a swipe to the face. She hit the ground, blood dripping from her head as she realized she couldn't stand.
Riley walked behind her and opened her hand trading Dean for the machete. She grasped it firmly and walked back to the beaten monster who was leaning back on her hands.
Barely able to get out words the woman hissed through her breaths, "you…hunters…you'll never win. There's too many of us. We'll always…come for you."
With one final look, Riley replied, "and we'll always be ready." With one swift motion, the blade cut off the woman's head and it thumped to the ground.
Baby pulled up in front of the diner. Deb had already closed up for the night and must have gone to bed.
Exhausted, covered in blood and still coming down from the high of the tussle, there was quiet between them.
"You know, Riley, you're a damn good hunter. We could use someone like you on hunts more often," Sam let out from the back seat.
"He's right," Dean added. "You kicked serious ass tonight."
Riley sighed. "This was the first time I hadn't gone on a hunt alone since I lost dad. I guess I was always too scared to–couldn't afford to lose another partner." Her head fell slightly and she knew that if she got too close to the boys, she would lose them too.
"Hey," Dean said lifting her chin up softly to look at him. "Look, this job sucks. We've lost more friends and family than we ever care to admit. It hurts every damn day. And the thought of losing more? It's almost too much to live with. But, this ain't a one-man show, sweetheart. We survive because we do it together."
A small smile came over Riley's face and she knew he was right.
Sam's hand landed on her shoulder and her hand landed on top of his. "You have two partners right here if it feels right to you. We can figure out all this shit as a team. We can go after Yellow Eyes, together. We'll always have your back."
The thought thrilled Dean to his core and he couldn't help but grin. "Sammy's right. So whaddya say, kid?"
A million thoughts ran through Riley's head while she tried to fight her fear of getting too close to anyone. "I–I need to think about it. I know you guys are headed out in the morning. So…I guess I'll let you know then."
Both brothers nodded in agreement and a swell of comradery swept through the car. Whatever her decision, a bond had been formed. Riley just needed to make sure she made the right call.
Leaning over, Riley planted a soft kiss on Dean's lips. She looked at him and then back at Sam, "goodnight, guys." Getting out of the car and swinging her bag over her shoulder, she walked into the back of the diner.
Dean's eyes watched her every move until she was out of sight. "I really hope she says yes, Sammy."
It was a brisk morning and more leaves had covered the streets and sidewalks of the quiet street. The mood in the town had shifted and even the air felt lighter. Evil had left Lawrence, for the time being.
Dean stood leaning against Baby never breaking his gaze from the diner door. He had tossed and turned all night worried that he would have to say goodbye to Riley, and he just wasn't ready.
Sam saw the concern in his eyes. "She still might come, Dean. We'll give her a few more minutes." Even he was keeping his hope that the new friend he had made would be leaving with them.
Dean's heart sank and with a heavy sigh, he turned to the door to get in the car. As he did, he heard the soft jingle of the diner's bell behind him. He spun at the sound and saw her. Riley was grinning from ear to ear, a bag over her shoulder and a guitar case in her hand. Finn and Deb followed close behind.
"Still got room for one more, Winchesters?"
"Hell yeah." Dean hugged her and took her things to put in the back seat.
Sam came to her and embraced her tightly. "You play guitar?"
"Oh, honey, I'm full of surprises."
Riley walked over to Finn and got down to his level. With a tear in her eye, she pet him and rubbed his ears while she looked him over. "I love you, buddy. But we're going after something too big and I can't risk you getting hurt. Aunt Deb's gonna take good care of you. I promise I'll be back soon." She wrapped her arms around the whining dog and kissed his head. "I love you so much." Tears crept up in Riley's eyes and the lump in her throat threatened every breath she took.
Getting up, Riley squeezed Deb. Her aunt whispered in her ear while her voice broke and held back tears with each word. "You come back to us, you hear me?"
"I promise. I love you so much."
The two tried to pull themselves together as Riley stepped away and walked towards the Impala.
Debbie hugged the boys and handed Dean a large bag. "It's filled with food for the road. I made sure I packed some pie in there too." His smile was beyond enthusiastic and he hugged her one more time. "You take care of her," she told him softly.
"Thank you, for everything. I promise to get her back to you."
The trio got in the car, Riley, and Dean in the front again and Sam in the back. With tears slowly rolling down her cheeks, Riley waved one more time. She had no idea how long it would be until she hugged her family again. "I hope I made the right choice," she thought as she wiped the tears from her face.
Dean backed out of the spot and headed on the road. Finn and Debbie were right where Riley had left them as they faded in the side mirror.
Seeing her pain, Dean squeezed her hand. Riley took a deep breath and tried to calm herself. "Music?" She asked as she turned the dial. Nothing took her mind off things like the beautiful sound of memories. That's what music was. It was solace, it was dad.
Bob Seger's 'Night Moves' came through the speakers and it was like Jackson had sent a message just for her. That was their song and she beamed knowing he was always with her.
"I love this song!" The music swept through her soul and Riley sang to the tune. "I was a little too tall, could've used a few pounds. Tight pants, points hardly reknown. She was a black-haired beauty with big dark eyes. And points all her own sitting way up high…"
"Woah, she sings too," Dean said teasingly as he soaked up every beautiful sound that she shared.
"Always the tone of surprise with you, Dean. Out past the cornfields where the woods got heavy. Out in the back seat of Dean's '67 Chevy. Workin' on mysteries without any clues. Come on, boys!"
Dean watched her as she warmed his heart. Every word and ridiculous sway she did in the front seat of his car was magic. She was magic.
The brothers chuckled in return and joined in as they all sang in unison. "Workin' on our night moves. Trying' to make some front page drive-in news. Workin' on our night moves in the summertime. In the sweet summertime."
At that moment, driving past the sign reading 'you are now leaving Lawrence, come back soon!' and lost in the night moves, the three of them let the weight on their shoulders fall. It felt right, like pieces of a puzzle were slowly coming together and finally making sense.
Sam got comfortable in the backseat and Riley scooted closer to Dean. The older Winchester wrapped his arm around her as they both imagined the roads to come.
That day was the start of something bigger than the three hunters could ever have known. Call it fate or destiny, but Sam, Dean, and Riley's lives would never be the same.
"I woke last night to the sound of thunder. How far off, I sat and wondered. Started humming a song from nineteen sixty-two. Ain't it funny how the night moves when just don't seem to have as much to lose? Strange how the night moves…with autumn closing in."