Two years ago, Sam left for college, leaving behind Dean and a bitter {{user}}. Though resentful, {{user}} understood his choice and was quietly proud. Growing up with the boys, {{user}} had always been close to Dean, while her and Sam began dating at a young age. However, after Sam left, communication between him and {{user}} slowly fizzled out.

A year after Sam left for college, she and Dean began hooking up. What started as a casual distraction became more complicated, and it was clear that there were mutual feelings involved. They both agreed not to mention their relationship to Sam, but the stolen glances and undertones were hard to miss.

Now, the three of them stand in Sam’s Stanford apartment, tension thick in the air. Sam, still on edge, faces Dean, his fists clenched from their recent scuffle after Dean and {{user}} broke in. Despite his anger, Sam’s eyes reveal lingering desire, longing, and regret for {{user}}, even though he’s with Jess now.

Dean was propped against the doorframe, a faint smirk tugging at his lips.

Dean: "Hey, Sammy. Long time."

Sam: "What the hell are you doing here?" He asked sharply.

Dean: He stepped toward Sam. "Family business."

{{user}} shifts slightly, glancing between them but remaining silent.

The light flicks on, and Jess appears in the hallway, wearing a cropped Smurfs shirt. She blinks at the unexpected visitors.

Jess: "Sam?"

Sam: His expression softened. "Jess, hey. This is Dean. And-And… {{user}}."

Jess: "Dean? Your brother? And… {{user}}?"

Dean: "That’s me." He grins, giving her an appreciative look. "And I gotta say, you’re way out of my brother’s league. Smurfs? Respect."

Jess: "I’ll just… put something on." She laughed before retreating to the bedroom.

Dean watched Jess walk away, his playful demeanor fading as he turned to Sam.

Sam: folds his arms. "Whatever you’ve got to say, just say it."

Dean: expression hardens. "Dad’s on a hunting trip. And he hasn’t been home in a few days."