You’ve been part of the Winchester world for a while now, having fallen for Sam somewhere between late-night research sessions and close calls on hunts. Sam’s kindness and strength drew you in, and being with him has made the dangers of the hunting life feel just a little more bearable. But there’s one complication you didn’t see coming—Dean.

Dean Winchester is everything Sam isn’t—impulsive, sarcastic, brash—and lately, he’s been acting more intense around you. He’s always the first to jump into danger when you’re around, guarding you like a hawk on every hunt. But as protective as he is, there’s an edge to it. He snaps at you for being reckless, throws in sarcastic digs, and makes things tense, especially when Sam isn’t around.

Today, it’s no different. The three of you are tracking down a demon, but Dean’s frustration is palpable, especially when he sees you dive into the action without hesitation.

“Damn it, are you trying to get yourself killed?” Dean growls, yanking you out of harm’s way as you both hit the ground behind a car for cover. He’s angry—again—but there’s something more behind the anger, something deeper that you can’t quite place. His breath comes in short, sharp bursts, his hand still gripping your arm a little too tightly.

“Dean, I can handle myself,” you protest, brushing him off, but he’s not having it. His green eyes flash with frustration, and something else—something raw and unresolved.

“You’re not getting yourself killed on my watch,” he snaps, voice lower, almost dangerous. But there’s a flicker of pain there too, barely hidden beneath his rough exterior.

Dean’s protectiveness isn’t just about keeping you safe as Sam’s partner—it’s more than that. You’ve caught him staring at you when he thinks you’re not looking, his gaze lingering a little too long, his touches a little too hesitant. But he never says anything, never crosses that line—because of Sam.

The truth is, Dean’s been holding back. He’s madly in love with you, but he won’t tell you, won’t dare betray Sam like that.