The Importance of An Education 4

[gerolyn7]

“Your hoodlum kidnapped my boy and took him God knows where.” Don pounded his fist on the table.

“Hold it down Donnie. I’m sure Dean and Sam are just working on the case.” Bobby and Rufus sat across the table in Don Padalecki’s office, the two chairs they occupied pushed closely together. The small office encompassed so many items in such a small space. Two bookcases loomed around them, stacked with hundreds of old dusty books. Rufus marveled at how much it reminded him of Bobby’s living room.

“Why is my son working on a case at all? He missed two classes. Blew off a study group last night.” Don sighed and threw himself back into his seat. “Bobby, he’s gonna be something special. He’s intelligent, charming, athletic. This is the reason he’s with us.”

Bobby glanced at Rufus, hoping for support from his friend. Rufus spoke up. “Dean is a good young man too. You wanna talk about smart? He doesn’t like to talk about it. Says it makes him ‘uncool’, but the boy knows his stuff. And as far as charm goes, well, Dean is full of it.”

Don squeezed his eyes shut, then smiled at the two men. “I’m sure Dean is a wonderful hunter. I’m sure he knows all about werewolves and ghosts and all the other things that go bump in the night. But Sam is going to do something important with his life. He doesn’t need to be wrapped up in this.”

Bobby leaned across the table, fingers grasping in a fist. “Then why exactly did you contact me Don? You aren’t the only one with something to lose here. I mean, if my family isn’t good enough for ya, then I guess you don’t need us?”

“I’m trying to protect Sam. I think we can both agree that a hunter’s future is not what we want for him.” Don’s eyes pleaded with Rufus to help.

Rufus huffed. “I highly doubt the boys eloped and ran off for a life of demon hunting, Don.” He turned to Bobby. “Did you call Dean’s cell?”

Bobby rolled his eyes. “No, I’m an idjit. Of course, I called, went to voice mail.”

The ringing of Don’s phone cut through their tension. Don grabbed it, hoping to hear his son’s voice. “Hello? Sam?”

The person on the other side of the phone didn’t disappoint. “Yeah Dad. I’m at the frat house. Just wanted to let you know I’m back.”

“Sam, you and Dean need to come to my office. Now.” Don gestured for Rufus and Bobby to stay quiet.

Sam hesitated only a moment. “Ok, I’ll go find Dean.”

The boys arrived at Don’s office 20 minutes later. Bobby and Rufus sat arms crossed, waiting for an explanation.

Dean rolled his eyes on arrival. “You called Bobby? What? Did you think I kidnapped the Golden Boy here?”

Bobby rose, arm grasping Dean’s tense shoulder. “Dean, Don was just worried cuz Sam missed some classes.”

Dean turned an evil glare at Bobby. “He’s fine, Bobby. I wouldn’t let anything happen to his Highness.”

“Thanks! But I can take care of myself.” Sam interjected.

“Of course you can. But Dean is more versed in hunting than you.” Don reassured. “As a matter of fact, I prefer, if from now on, you leave the hunting to Dean.”

Sam scoffed, arms flailing with exasperation. “Really? Really Dad?“ He didn’t notice the shiver that passed through Dean. “I need to find out what is happening here.”

Dean shook his head, his brain arguing with the words forming on his tongue. “Actually Don, I think the safest place for Sammy right now, is with me.”

“And since when do you know what’s best for my son?” Don rounded the desk, meeting Dean on the other side.

Dean smirked, hands on his hips, towering over Professor Padalecki. “Oh, I think I have a great answer for that question? Wanna hear it? I’ve found out some very interesting information about his birth family.“ His green eyes shined. “Or do you just wanna keep little Sammy in the dark?”

Sam stretched, surpassing Dean’s height. “Keep me in the dark about what?”

Don pursed his lips, gazing from Bobby, to Rufus and back to Dean. “Nothing. You’re . . . .right. Sam would be safer with you.”

Dean shrugged, head shaking in ire. He stomped toward the door, stopping to nudge Bobby. “Something you forgot to tell me, Pop?”

“We’ll talk back in your room.” Bobby mumbled.

Dean led the two older hunters back to his dorm. He scratched his chin as he waited for one of them to speak. “Well?” He shouted into the silence.

“I’m guessin’ he figured out that Sam’s his brother.” Rufus turned to Bobby.

Bobby pulled off his ever present ball cap and rubbed his head. “Yeah think genius? Dean, Sam was an infant. I couldn’t, I mean, I could barely take care of you. Sam needed a mother.”

“Right. Cuz he’s too good for this life.” Dean scratched threw his hair.

“That’s not it at all.” Bobby huffed. “The Padalecki’s are good people. I couldn’t take on two children.”

Dean shook his head in disgust. “You don’t think I see how the Professor and Mary Ann look down their noses at me? Like I’m not good enough to shine their shoes.”

“Okay, was that a Gilligan’s Island reference or is his wife really named Mary Ann? Cuz, if so. . . “ Rufus grinned.

“It doesn’t matter, Dean.” Bobby threw Rufus a scowl. “We’ll finish up this case and get out of here.”

Dean snorted, pacing the little room in frustration. “What Bobby? I’m supposed to leave the only family I have left, like a sitting duck?”

“So you think you’re going to drag him hunting with you?” Bobby bellowed. “Don’s never gonna let me live this down.”

“You know as soon as I’m gone every spirit, demon and creature I’ve left behind is gonna have his number.” Dean squinted.

Bobby shook his head. “It’s up to Sam if he goes or stays. You don’t get to make that decision, son.”

Dean bit his bottom lip. “I’m starting to think I’m the only one who should make decisions around here.”

“Well, since we’re here. Maybe us old dumb hunters could help you out with your case.” Rufus fell into the chair at the dorm’s desk.

“I know that whatever killed Sam’s girl, is the same thing that killed . . .” Dean choked on the word. “our mom and dad. Same MO. Burned on the ceiling. It’s just . . .why?”

“Rufus, Bill and I know some stuff about the demon that killed your parents.” Bobby began. “We tailed him for a few years.”

“We know holy water doesn’t work.” Rufus sniffed. “We know he’s got something against women. He killed quite a few the year your parents died. He’s got. . .creepy ass yellow eyes.”

“Wait!” Dean fished the journal out of his inside jacket pocket. “Yellow eyes? That’s, that’s, hold on, it’s in here. I thought it was weird.” The young hunter tore through the pages with determination. “Here, MC told me how the yellow eyes glowed out of her father’s face. The demon that took over Sam’s grandfather. . .I mean, MY grandfather, it was the same demon?”

“Your mom told your dad that story a long time ago. Before you were born.” Bobby shook his head. “I don’t think he ever told anyone else. Just wrote it down.”

“What about the middle school teacher, Gabe. Dad’s friend that gave Sam the book?” Dean continued to scan the pages.

“I don’t know a Gabe. The book was in your dad’s belongings when he died.” Bobby scratched his beard. “Kinda got stolen.”

Dean raised his eyebrows at his adopted father.

Rufus scrunched his nose. “I’d say you are battin’ a thousand today Bobby.”

“I know, that the demon told MC, wait, M . . . is for Mary.” Dean’s eye’s misted. “Mary, my mom.” Dean throat tightened. All the words he wanted to say stuck, fighting the ball of pain that welled up inside. For a moment the room swayed, Dean’s chest tightened in grief.

“Boy,” Bobby cupped Dean’s shoulder. “I know this is hard, but, we need to focus. What did he say to her? People are dying, Dean.”

“He said, he needed something from her. She promised not to interfere when he came for it.” Dean wiped the tear that dribbled down his cheek with the back of his hand.

“Your parents were killed in Sam‘s nursery. He attacked Sam’s girlfriend.” Bobby pondered.

“So. . .he wanted Sam? He came for Sam?” Dean guessed.

“It’s a good thing you boys got out.” Bobby sighed.

“So. . .he’s after Sam, now.” The color drained from Dean’s face. Suddenly, Dean could feel the weight of his baby brother wrapped around him. He was four years old. The smell of baby powder filled his nostrils as he ran out the front door. Sam was crying. Dean could feel the tears dripping from his brother’s face and rolling down his own cheeks. ”Hold still.“ The tiny voice cooed to the baby. “It’s okay Sam. I’ve got you.” The tiny feet jammed into Dean’s hip as he carried them both to the huge oak across the street from their house. Sam’s cries filled the night air as they watched flames lick at the windows from the upstairs bedroom. “Sammy, I’m here Sammy. You’re okay. I’m not gonna let anything happen to you Sam. I love you Sammy.”

* * * *

Sam opened the door to Eddie’s room. He examined the lump that curled up under the blankets on the bed. He listened to the soft snoring that floated through the room. Sam had never seen Eddie so messed up. He’d drug him into his room when they’d returned. Eddie had fallen straight into the bed, muttering about light and floating. His skin lost all the pink glow that Sam was used to seeing.

Shame tugged at Sam’s heart. Eddie had come to him, asked him for help, and he’d turned his back on him. Sam really didn’t think Eddie would fall this far. He expected a beer binge, or a late night movie marathon. This was more than he had thought possible.

A cold wind blew through Eddie’s dorm room. Sam scanned the room, searching for the source. The windows were tightly shut. The hallway behind him quiet. The chill continued, and Sam shivered as he heard the rustle of papers on Eddie’s desk. He stepped the rest of the way into the room, cautiously peeking around the tiny expanse.

A man appeared out of nowhere directly in front of Sam. Yellow eyes shined out of the stranger’s face. “Sam Winchester, what a pleasure.”

Sam stared at the man, confusion clouding his face. “What? I’m not a Winchester.”

“Oh, I’m sorry, that Neanderthal you’ve been hanging out with? Surprise, he’s your brother.” A wry smile playing on his dry lips. “See the old man, well, he liked Dean better. Decided to throw you out with the garbage. But don’t worry, you’re my favorite.

“Why should I believe you?” Sam’s hand slid behind him, grasping at Eddie’s canvas. “I don’t even know you.”

“My boy, we’ve met before. Don’t you remember? And I think you may have even. . .read about me.” The smile still playing across his mouth. “I’m the demon that possessed Grandad. I’m the one that made a deal with Mommy Dearest. And I’m the one that had to kill her when she came into your nursery and tried to stop me from giving you a gift.”

“You’re the demon?” Sam stuttered.

“Come on, Sam. I have a name. Azazel, has a kinda ring to it doesn’t it. So, now, I’m here. And it’s time for you to start using that gift.” His eyes shifted across the boy’s face. “You know what I’m talking about don’t you?”

“No.” Sam fingers loosened on the canvas. “You’re a liar. None of this is true.”

“Oh but it is. And you know Dean is your brother, cuz you dreamed it. Didn’t you?” A flick of demon wrist and Azazel was holding Eddie’s canvas out to Sam. “Did you want this?”

Sam’s breath hitched in his throat, knowing he was out of his league. “How do you know about the dreams?” Silence met his plea. He snapped, voice loud and low. “Answer me! How do you know?”

“Oh, such bravado. I know, because it’s your gift. All my children have gifts.” He bashed the canvas to the ground. “And when it’s time. . . “

A boot kick to the door interrupted the demon. Dean stood on the other side, chest heaving with every labored breath. “So, you’re the son of a bitch who killed my mother.”

“Why it’s the first born. Welcome to the party. I was just telling baby bro here, all about the family.” Azazel clasped his hands in front of his lips. “Momma and Poppa Bear would be so proud.”

“You yellow eyed freak. Don’t you talk about my parents!” Dean shook with anger.

“Dean always was like his overprotective mother.” Came the demon’s aside to Sam. “You can’t stop me Dean. Sam is mine. I’ve got plans that are almost as big as he is.” A demonic chuckle filled the dead space between them. “What are you gonna do? Drag him hunting with you? He has a future Dean. He’s gonna be somebody.”

“Sam’s the only family I have left, and I’ll be damned if I’m gonna hand him over to the likes of you.” Dean laid a hand on Sam’s shoulder pushing him back away from Azazel.

“When the time comes, he’ll come to me, like all my children. It’s destiny Dean.” Azazel leaned into the older brother. “And your destiny, is to stay the hell out of my way.”

He was gone. A breeze fluttered a curtain behind Eddie’s still unconscious form. Suddenly the tension in the room was too thick. Dean choked to even get a breath. He couldn’t look at Sam. The burning in his chest was too much for him to bear. He turned to Sam, shielding his eyes at first, then finally letting them rest on the painful grimace that graced is brother’s face. ‘Brother’ Dean thought, letting the word bounce around his brain. Bobby was his family. Bobby, Jo, Ellen, Bill and even Rufus, those were the people who celebrated his birthday, who worried if he was alive. This boy was nothing like Dean, knew nothing about the way he lived.

Dean stomped out the dormitory room door, slamming it deftly behind him.

“Dean.” Sam chased him down the hall. “You just, like, jumped between me and a demon.”

“Yeah,” Dean rubbed the back of his neck, hiding the blush on his face. “It’s my job.”

“Are we really. . . .?” Sam stepped closer to the shorter man.

“Um, I think,” Dean squinted, rubbing at the memories flashing behind his eyes. “Yes. Now I remember carrying you down stairs. Dad handed you to me.” Dean turned away from Sam. “I guess, I forgot.”

“You forgot me?” Sam choked back the pain. “How can you forget a little brother?”

The voice that answered back was raw and scratchy. “I was four years old! I watched my parents die, Sam.” The tears streamed down his face, back still turned to his brother. “Mom burned. Just like Jess. Stuck to the ceiling. And Dad?” He sniffed back tears, staring at a spot above him. “Dad was trying to save her. He fell, trying to climb up to get her. I think he must have broke his neck. His nose was bleeding. I looked back, it was, it was a lot of blood.” Dean swallowed, trying to calm the little boy that panicked in his head. “And the last thing he said to me was, protect Sammy.” Dean spun, shining eyes meeting the now grown baby. “And I lost you. I forgot you.”

Sam bit his lip, feeling guilt for the glassy gaze that stared at him. “I’m sorry.”

“No, no. I’m sorry, Sammy. You, you don’t even know how beautiful Mom was. Or, how fun Dad could be. You know, this.” Dean pointed at himself in disgust. “The broken man who decided to spend his life hunting down the scary stuff that tore his parents away from him. I woulda been a good brother.”

“Dean stop.” Sam shook his head.

“NO!” Dean’s voice bounced off the hallway walls. “I didn’t get the chance. I would have protected you. I would have taught you all sorts of stuff. I, I would have showed you how to dress.” Dean fingered the sleeve of Sam’s yellow polo.

Sam snickered. “I’m sure you would have.”

“But, that didn’t happen.” Dean wiped his face, reverting back to the cool demeanor Sam had met at the beginning. “And you have a family. A mother and father and. . . .do you have any brothers or sisters?”

“No, just Don and Megan.” Sam cleared his throat.

“Don’t. Don’t brush them off for me. I’m, I’m nothing Sam. Just a guy, passing through town. I’ll be gone soon.” He walked off. Sam went back into Eddie’s room, lost in thought.

Dean headed to the perimeter of the dormitory to find Rufus and Bobby. He found them sprinkling salt around the buildings landscape. “So? See a ghost?”

Dean scowled. “Demon! And he spilled the beans. So now I’m saddled with a freak geek boy I have to protect.”

“Ellen called.” Bobby smirked.

“Yeah, I went to do a little research.” Dean squinted.

“She said you and Sam seemed to have taken quite a shine to each other.” Bobby prodded.

Dean chuckled. “If you mean, I didn’t want the kid to die, then yeah, we’re bosom buddies.”

“We ain’t interested in your alternative life style.” Rufus butted in. “We just find it interesting that you are so gung ho about taking on a partner. Thought you were a loner.”

Dean kicked the dirt with his steel toed boot. Green eyes took on a glassy glaze. “I don’t know. I sorta like the kid okay. He’s my brother.” The emotion drowned his voice with a smoky tone. The new word gracing his mouth with a bittersweet tinge. “But he’s got this life here.”

“We gotta kill this thing Dean.” Bobby gripped the boy’s shoulder. “If you’re serious about having Sam around, we gotta make sure he stays around.”

“Demon, holy water doesn’t work. What then? Silver bullets? Iron?” Dean licked his lips.

Bobby glanced nervously at Rufus. “Well, we sorta found something.”

“What is it? Let’s go get it.” Fire lit in Dean’s eye’s for the first time since he faced the demon.

“It ain’t gonna be that easy.” Bobby pouted.

Dean crossed his arm. “Of course it isn’t.”

“One of Bobby’s books talked about a gun.” Rufus began.

Dean interrupted. “Actually, that sounds really easy. I’ve got an arsenal in the trunk.”

Bobby shook his head. “It’s a special gun. And no one seems to know where it’s at.”

Dean rubbed the back of his neck. “So, we gotta find this gun, kill the son of a bitch. And then. . . Sammy’s safe?”

“I sure hope so son.” Bobby gave a sad smile.

“I need a drink.”
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