Chapter 9
"So how did Melanie's story check out?" Dean asks smugly. Sam tries to think of a comeback to defend himself, but he knows any attempt is futile. His voice is barely audible when he murmurs his response.
"Henry Peterson's wife was a feminist, and from all accounts Peterson fully supported the movement."
"What did I tell you? That girl's a fake," Dean rubs in. He must see Sam's defeated demeanor though because he quickly changes his tone.
"Why don't you get some sleep? We'll head out in a few hours." Sam doesn't have time to sleep though. Instead, he starts reciting all the information he collected while Dean was sleeping.
"Dean, I was looking up some more information related to the case. First of all, in all the mermaid lore I found the mermaid, or siren, lures a man into the water before drowning him. Denise doesn't fit the profile."
"Dude, it's the 21st century. I think mermaids are allowed to break gender roles," Dean retorts. Sam ignores his brother and keeps talking.
"Also I learned that before the college was erected the land was owned by a fishing company. Apparently, there were many accidents onsite and the company was shut down due to safety violations."
"So…" Dean begins.
"So that's the perfect situation to create an angry spirit. Maybe Peterson's not haunting the grounds, but another spirit could be. Maybe it was released when they started construction," Sam finishes breathlessly.
"That's a bit far-fetched don't you think?" Dean responds.
"Any more far-fetched than a mermaid?" Sam counters.
Dean grunts and turns away from Sam. He rubs is face with his hands and sighs loudly.
"Okay fine. While we're watching the mermaid you can investigate this little theory of yours." Dean gives in.
Sam smiles and is about to thank Dean, but his brother was not done speaking.
"Sam I trust your judgment, but I think your conscience is getting in the way of reality."
"Thanks Dean," Sam replies. His genuine gratitude now sounds sarcastic.
"You're welcome," Dean says. He sits in silence for a moment and then claps his hands together.
"Well if you don't want to sleep we better head to the school. It's almost midnight."
"Alright," Sam mutters. He yawns and rubs his eyes. Tonight's going to be a long night.