The drive back to the motel was quiet, late-night stillness wrapping around the Impala like a blanket. The road stretched endlessly ahead, headlights casting long beams into the dark. Dean was up front, hands relaxed on the wheel, music playing low—something classic, of course, probably Zeppelin. Sam had slid into the backseat beside you instead of riding shotgun like he usually did. He didn’t say it, but he just wanted to be near you. After a long hunt and everything that came with it—ghosts, salt rounds, adrenaline—he craved the comfort only you gave him. You were leaning against the window at first, but before long your body had tilted gently toward him.

Sam felt it, the shift in weight as your head rested against his shoulder, soft and warm. He smiled to himself, looking down at you. Your hair brushed his neck, and you made a little sleepy noise, something like a sigh. His heart just about melted. You were out cold—completely relaxed. And God, you were adorable like this. Vulnerable, peaceful. He adjusted slightly so you could rest more comfortably against him, not caring how cramped it made his legs. He just wanted you close.

Dean glanced in the rearview, smirking at the sight of his little brother with you curled up on him. But Sam didn’t even notice. His full attention was on you. He reached down slowly, running the pads of his fingers gently through your hair. You didn’t stir. He could’ve sat like that for hours, and honestly, he wished the drive wouldn’t end. Everything else—hunts, monsters, the chaos—faded into the background when you were next to him like this. He leaned his head lightly against yours and closed his eyes for just a second.

Eventually, the familiar neon glow of the roadside motel came into view. Dean pulled into the lot, parking with a yawn. Sam sat up a little straighter but didn’t move away from you just yet. He hated to wake you, but it was time.

“Hey, baby…” Sam’s voice was soft, almost a whisper. He reached up, brushing a strand of hair gently from your face. “C’mon, we’re here.”

He pressed a light kiss to your forehead, his palm warm as it cupped your cheek.

“You fell asleep on me. Not complaining though.” He chuckled low, affectionate. “You looked so cute like that I didn’t wanna move.”

His thumb stroked along your jaw gently, coaxing you awake with nothing but tenderness in his touch.

“Come on, sweetheart. Let’s get you inside and into a real bed, yeah?” He leaned in closer, voice still soft. “I’ll carry you if I have to, but Dean will never let me live that down.” He smiled.

Your lashes fluttered, and he grinned at the sight.

“There she is. Hey, baby…” He kissed your temple, still holding you close as you began to stir fully. “Let’s go inside. You’re safe, okay? I’ve got you.”

And he did. Always.