Shadows of Rebirth (Supernatural Fanfiction Book 7)

Healing Through the Music

Sam's Point of View:

The hum of the wheelchair's wheels against the tile floor is a strange, almost comforting sound as Dean is wheeled into the house. His face, usually so expressive, is now marred by pain and a lingering haze from the TBI. The casts on his arms and legs, along with the wheelchair, make the sight of him even more jarring. I can't help but feel a pang of guilt every time I see him struggle.

We have a hospital bed set up in the living room for Dean, and tonight, one of us will be on night duty to help him through any difficulties he might face. The house is quieter than usual, filled with the kind of silence that only comes when everyone is waiting for something important to happen. I glance over at Birch, who looks both relieved and exhausted. The vision that was once so clear has shifted to focus on a more personal, internal battle. I hope we're ready to face it.

Before the night fully settles in, we decide to have a movie night. It's something normal, something to remind us that there is still light amidst the chaos. The living room is transformed into a cozy space with blankets and pillows strewn about. The group gathers, a mixture of concern and weary relief on their faces. Lily and Max are curled up on the floor, their eyes wide with anticipation. Mary, Ruby, Gabriel, Angel, Jody, and Ellen are all present, a testament to the support that surrounds us.

As the movie begins, I watch Dean's face light up. It's his favorite—a classic action film filled with nostalgia. For a moment, the weight of his injuries seems to lift as he gets lost in the storyline. He's still struggling to talk, his speech slurred and halting, but his eyes speak volumes. I can see the flicker of the old Dean in them, the one who finds solace in the simple pleasures of life.

"Hey, Dean," I say softly, hoping to break through the barrier of his fractured thoughts. "You used to quote this movie all the time. Remember?"

Dean's face contorts slightly in a mixture of effort and recognition. He manages to whisper, "Yeah... I remember."

Birch sits beside him, his hand resting lightly on Dean's shoulder. I can see the silent communication between them, a shared history and understanding that words can't fully capture. Birch looks at Dean with a mixture of pride and concern, clearly trying to balance his own feelings with the need to support Dean.

As the film progresses, I notice Dean's focus shifting between the screen and the people around him. The cast on his arm seems to be a constant reminder of his vulnerability, but for now, he's lost in the thrill of his favorite film. I can almost hear the unspoken dialogue between him and the movie, a familiar comfort amidst the chaos.

The movie ends with a familiar triumphant scene, and Dean's eyes shine with something akin to satisfaction. He looks around at everyone, his gaze softening. Despite the challenges he faces, there's a moment of peace.

"Thanks for this," Dean manages to say, his voice rough but genuine.

I nod, understanding that this is more than just a movie night for him. It's a lifeline, a reminder that even in the darkest of times, moments of normalcy and connection can make a difference.

As the night wears on, the group gradually starts to disperse. Dean, with the help of Birch and me, settles into his hospital bed. His eyes are heavy with fatigue, but there's a small smile playing at his lips. I watch him for a moment, knowing that the road ahead will be long and challenging. But for tonight, we find solace in each other's company, in the simple act of watching a favorite movie together.

The room grows quiet as everyone heads to their respective rooms, leaving Dean and me alone in the living room. The flicker of the TV screen casts a soft glow across the room, and Dean's breathing starts to even out.