// I'll be there //

[Gregg Allen Steine]

News had traveled at the Academy and threw its people that one of them has fallen. It was that of a Ryder Winchester that had fallen in battle. Gregg wasn't aware of the gory details of what had happened just had heard of his passing and he knew Simone his ex had been married to him and had been pregnant with his children and that must be very difficult for her. He frowned and hoped that she was holding up okay for her kid’s sakes. He had no idea how far along she was either. He had been trying to avoid her since the ordeal of him being possessed with a demon and trying to kill her. He was awake in there the whole time and he feels horrible for all the times his face tried to kill her and figured she may not want to see him and would blame him or something for not listening to her when she told him what was up. He had hoped in his car, and headed for her house. It was a few hrs away, but he made the drive to go see her. He couldn't just leave her be and had to make sure she was all right. She could use a friend that knows her right now. He had driven several hours until he reached her place. She was sat on the porch all alone and looked so sad. She was staring off in space. It made him wonder what was going on inside her head. What was she thinking? He hoped that she wasn't planning on something stupid. He had parked the car, and slid out and headed up the stairs. "Simone." he had called trying to get her to look in his direction, but the girl was in a daze. He hoped that she was still alive it was a little bit freaky with how she was zoned off. Poor thing! He had walked over to her, "Simone." He called again before putting his hand on her shoulder seeing if he'd get sometime kind of reaction out of her. "Are you okay? Anyone home in there?" He asked wondering if she was alive in there. Was anyone in the house? She wasn't all alone was she? If a demon were to attack her now she'd be dead most likely was that what she wanted? He tried to get her to look at him. “ Simi..” he called again. [bg=595c5f][atrb=border,0,true]

Simi no idea how much time had passed since the fateful night Ben had brought Ry's body home. From the moment she'd woken in the hospital, she'd been operating in a thick, dense fog of pain that was relentless. She didn't know how she'd gotten home, what decisions she'd made regarding the funeral or even the funeral itself expect the fact she'd wanted to throw herself on top of the coffin as it was lowered into the ground and be buried with him. Vaguely, she remembered arms holding her back and then Sebastian's soothing voice in her ear but there was no comfort to be found there like it used too. Her husband and father of her babies to be was dead and nothing was going to change that. Life as she knew it was over and her heart was broken in a way she was sure would never be fixed. As minutes turned to hours and hours turned to days, the petite blond went through the motions of living like a zombie. She heard and saw everything around her but it didn't puncture the bubble around her. People came and went trying to offer comfort and condolences but their words were meaningless. No one could bring back the only person who truly mattered to her and she simply stared at them with dead eyes until they went away. All she wanted was to be left alone and soon enough, everyone seemed to get that point and they faded back into the woodwork. Mostly, at least. Her phone still never ceased to ring with concerned family but she'd managed to make them think she was coping, so far at least. She had her babies, after all, to look after and they were the only reason she forced herself to get out of bed each day. It might not be till late afternoon but she still forced herself to get dressed and go down stairs to face the empty house. The house that she and Ryder had lovingly restored together. When the silence finally over came her and she couldn't take it any more, she retreated out to the huge swing that hung on the veranda and watched the sun set. It was the only time of day that gave her any peace and she often curled up out there until all hours of the night. Hence it was when she heard the familiar sound of a voice calling to her from somewhere near. Lost in her own thoughts, her brow flickered with a frown and then gradually, the little blond turned shadow rimed eyes towards the voice. For a long moment, she simply stared at the man in confusion before recognition flickered over her face. "Gregg?" she asked with a voice hoarse from disuse and crying."...what... " Shaking her blond head as if to clear it, Simi stared at him in bemusement before her gaze traveled to his car and back. The fog made it hard to think but the pain and fear of him that she'd always expected to feel was not there. In fact, all she could see was a guy she'd known for years and who'd once been her best friend. "What... what are you doing here?" she asked softly, trying to reason through his appearance in her mind even as she realized that she was glad to see him. [bg=595c5f][atrb=border,0,true]

[Gregg Allen Steine]

The drive there had been along one and the sun had already began to set as he parked the car and went to try to draw Simi out of her daze. Fog was rolling in. Perhaps it was going to rain later on the air seemed to have a dampness to it. He couldn't believe the luck she was having first him being out to get her demonic wise, then something happening to her husband. It is weird how everything you once knew could change in a blink of an eye and at least he was here now trying to be a friend. He had been avoiding her and her family for so long after he recovered from the state he had been in. Despite all that was going on she still had that pregnancy glow to her. He was glad that she as still alive when his words sunk into her, she seemed a little shocked he had been there. He hoped that she didn't mind he wanted to check on her, but he prepared himself for the possible shot gun that she could have hidden somewhere telling him to go away and get off her property. It would be the Simi he knew, but this girl was dead in the eyes from grief and the loss of her husband. She was fragile. Her voice was hoarse a she spoke, but that was expected with the loss she had been burdened with. It had been a few weeks now and he knew she must be having a hard time grasping it all. Comfort and condolences was what most people had to give, but no one would really understand what must be going on in her head. Everyone grieves in their own ways. Some have gone back to their normal lives he was sure of while she was lost in a daze. It was almost as if she were on that porch waiting for him to come home. She had called his name with her petite and hoarse lil voice which was probably due to all the crying she had been doing in the past few weeks. " Yes, its me," He replied. She had a look of confusion on her face, but that was expected he didn't think she'd be all happy to see him nor did he expect to be embraced in a hug hug. She then asked him in a soft voice asking him what he was doing there. " I came to check in on you. I heard what happened not in details... I wanted to make sure you were hanging in there. You scared me for a minute there dazing off into the distance." He said as he, bend down beside where she had been sitting on a swing. " How are you doing?" He asked a brow arched and his facial features displaying that he was truly concerned for her and was worried about her. He didn't know if she'd tell him the truth or try to play it calm and cool in a lie telling him that she is okay and will be fine. He knew her well so sometimes could tell when she was lying. He was happy to see her, but wished things were under better circumstances maybe he should have approached her sooner to bury the hatchet or try to, but he didn't want to approach her and cause her pain. He was still traumatized a bit from the whole ordeals in the past, but he tried to bury them in the back of his head so he could be here now when she really could use someone to talk to and be the shoulder to cry on like he used to be. [bg=595c5f][atrb=border,0,true]

Of all the faces she'd expected to see or even feel relief at seeing... Gregg's was the last one she would have put on that list. For the last few months, she'd struggled with feelings of guilt, fear and sorrow as she'd worked through the nightmare that had ended their relationship and she'd gradually been able to separate the Gregg she'd known from the demon who'd possessed him. That hadn't meant she was prepared to see him, however, and she marveled at the fact that she was actually relieved to find him kneeling before her. A voice at the back of her mind mocked her with the knowledge that whatever pain she'd felt at losing him was eclipsed by the pain of loosing Ryder so it no longer had the ability to wound her. That fact left room for only the feelings she'd once held for him as a friend. And for some reason.. That realization broke through the haze around her and she saw him fully for the first time. His face suddenly loomed clearer and more defined in her vision as she reached out a hand and touched his cheek. "Gregg..." she whispered, a slight hint of wonder in her voice where before it had been dead. "You look like hell....No offense, buddy, but you need a shave and some groceries."it continued, a ghost of its former teasing. Tilting her head, the petite blond sighed and then tucked a lock of hair behind her ear. For a moment, confusion flickered over her face and then reality seemed to pressed down heavily on her once more. Her eyes darkened to pits of titanic sorrow even as she pulled herself back in to the shell she'd retreated too. "Who told you?" she whispered out, turning her gaze away and trying to hide from his knowing eyes. He'd always been able to read her to well and she felt as if the truth might very well rip her apart if he tried to get her to talk about it. "I suppose word has traveled through hunting circles, huh? One of the great Winchesters has once again fallen.... " [bg=595c5f][atrb=border,0,true]

[Gregg Allen Steine]

She probably didn’t want him here, but screw that he was here if she likes it or not to make sure she is holding up okay. She had reached a hand sort of coming out of the daze she had been in stroking his cheek softly as he had bent down beside her to look her over. Whispering his name a small hint of her normal self in her voice telling him that he looked like hell and could use a shave and some groceries. That last bit made him arch a brow. Did he look like he hasn’t been eating? Then it dawned on him she was teasing him like the good old days and had to tease back for shits and giggles. “What do you mean, Simone? Don’t ladies love the scruff look these days?” He said teasingly. It was good she had some small sense of human left in her. She looked as if she was dead. Could he blame her? Hell no her lover passed on and she was still very pregnant. Someone would tell her he was here to move in on her and make moves on her so they could become what they were with her husband gone and her being a vulnerable widow, but he was not there for any of them reasons and just wanted to be a friend. She tucked some hair behind her ear and even in her state she still managed to look beautiful. She asked him how he heard. “ I heard it from a few other hunters out there.” It was true world did travel fast in the hunting ranks and demons like to run their prideful mouths that they have him in the pit. For all he knows it could be a lie, but he is not going to tell her that. “ Have you eaten anything today, Simone? “ He asked and took her hand in his and caressed it softly. “ If you didn’t we should get you something.” He said you could tell he cared by the tone of his voice and he wanted to make sure she was taking care of herself not just for her, but for the babies. “ How far are you?” He asked curious seeing if she’d tell or dodge his questions thinking it would lighting things a bit since she was dodging looking at him which meant she didn’t want to talk about what happened. [bg=595c5f][atrb=border,0,true]

Nodding her acceptance of his explanation, Simi sighed and then rubbed her rounded tummy. One of the babies kicked and a small smiled fluttered across her face before her attention was once again turned to the man in front of her. When was the last time she'd eaten? Frowning hard, the petite mother to be realized that she didnt' have a clue. She vaguely recalled munching on some crackers but had that been earlier in the day or yesterday? At some point, she'd made some juice but the glass was still half empty beside her. "Um..... I .. I don't know..." she whispered out, running a hand through her tousled blond curls."I think... I might have had a bagel this morning. I"m not sure." Then hearing him talk about the babies, she glanced down and gave a little wince when she got a hard kick in response. "I'm about thirty six weeks or so along.... give or take a few days either way. Another few weeks and they'll be here." she said, showing the first enthusiasm that she'd had in awhile. "We aren't even sure if they are boys, girls or one of each but I can't wait to hold them. They are destined to be little blond haired, blue eyed angels." Glancing up at him, Simi couldn't help the grimace that crossed her face. It seemed so weird to be sitting here talking to him like this. The last truly civil conversation they'd had was when he'd asked her to marry him and they'd been contemplating a family of their own. Now, here she was widowed and pregnant with another man's children while he'd had his nice, comfortable world torn in two. Yeah, fate was a total bitch, that was for sure. "Gregg.... I'm so sorry." she choked out, tears coming to her eyes as she gazed at him. "I'm so sorry for everything... I hope you know that. I never wished for any of this to happened and I never would have drug you into it by choice. You should never have had to know about this world. ITs shitty and awful. This is why I ran away from it to begin with. I didn't want.. Never wanted this..... " [bg=595c5f][atrb=border,0,true]

[Gregg Allen Steine]

He had told her why he was there and how he heard. It was the truth and he most defiantly was worried about her and her babies. He didn't want her to lose herself and wither away into the darkness. He cared. He was asking her when she last ate and that she should eat for the babies. They needed her He couldn't let her forget about them. She rain her fingers threw her gorgeous blonde curly locks and whispered that she didn't remember, and that she THINKS she had a bagel this morning. That was earlier in the day.. He frowned at that. " Simone." he stated, his tone one that was like what the heck are you doing to yourself.. " You need to eat. " He told her with a soft sigh. He was told how far along she is and how they don't know if they are boys or girls.. " So you will have some sort of surprise when they decide its time to be born. You have that to look forward to.", He knew that it wasn't the same as sharing this experience with her husband, but she did have that to look forward too and she had kids that would love her always. " I am sure they will be just that and beautiful like their momma is." It was weird having this conversation after the one they had years ago before the possession and finding out what sorta world she lived in, but he was winging it even if it was a little awkward. He had to be brave and take it on. The had to move past the stage they were in since they have been avoiding each other and she really could use a friend right now. She had looked up at him, and she choked out an I am sorry, and tears spilled from her eyes once again. He didn't want her to cry. He reached up a hand and brushed her tears awwww. " Shhhh, I know. I get why you ran from it, but I guess it was something you couldn't fully get away from and it happens. I don't blame you. It was some messed up times, but I don't blame you. For all you know it could have happened even if you didn't tell me the truth on things. I am sorry for all the things that happened that I didn't have control over. " He had said, as he batted away them tears. " That is water under the bridge and you don't have to be sorry." He told her, and tried to sooth her. "Come on, Simone lets go fix you something to eat." He told her, standing up and offering her his hand to lead her into the house and make sure she eats something even if he has to order out or attempt to cook. He will feel better knowing there is something in that tummy for them two little ones to nibble at. Would she fight him to go in? He really didn't blame her for any of the things that happened in the past. It was in the past so it can stay there for all he cares and work on the future and being friends. [bg=595c5f][atrb=border,0,true]

Of all the people that is should have felt good to lean on, Gregg was the last one in a million years she would have thought to call. Oh, once upon a time he'd have been the first one but now... Now things had changed. There was to much history between them to be comfortable, or so she'd thought. Now, though, she was having to reevaluate things. Instead of the fear and distrust she'd been certain she'd feel when this time came... She felt as if she'd been offered a rare chance to fix something special that had been broken. They'd never be what they'd been, of course, but here with him.... She felt as if she'd been granted some small reprieve from the nightmare of her life if only for a little bit. Accepting his words for the truth they were, Simi felt herself nod a bit and then she was on her feet. She didn't question her obedience to his instructions, she just knew that her friend was once again with her and she took comfort in that in a way she hadn't been able to her family. Oh, they were a well meaning lot but she swore.. If she looked up to see one of them staring at her with that pitying look or watched them wring their hands one more time... She might just lose what was left of her sanity. Gregg obviously was worried about her but his eyes weren't laced with the same pity everyone elses had been and it was a relief. She'd had enough hovering and well meaning coddling to last her a century. Leading him through the foyer and into the welcoming house, paused for a moment to take a deep breath. God, how she loved and hated this place all at the same time. Ghostly memories of happier times invaded her minds eye and she could practically hear Ryders laughter floating eerily on the dead air. Closing her eyes for a moment to bask in the sensation, the young mother to be choked back another tide of tears and then shook her head. Was this pain ever going to get any easier? Granted, it had only been a few weeks since it all had happened but she could still see and feel Ry's body in her arms the night Ben had brought him home. She suspected that it was something she would never forget but there was no way in hell she was going to allow that image to drive her out of the home they'd built together so lovingly for their children. No way in hell. Which only made the sight of Gregg in her house even more surreal. Feeling a bit of a smile play at the corner of her lips, she eyed the tawny haired ex football player and shook her head wearily. Oh, yeah, it was definitely strange but somehow.. At the moment, it seemed right. They'd been friends first so very long ago and if it hadn't been for the whole possession thing, she thought maybe he and Ry might have gotten along well. They were very much alike in a lot of ways but now... Now they'd never know. "Come on in, Gregg...The kitchen is to the back of the house." she said, leading the way down the hall and into a huge old fashioned kitchen. "Please ignore the mess... I haven't felt much like cleaning..." [bg=595c5f][atrb=border,0,true]

[Gregg Allen Steine]

He didn't think that she had really been to blame and even if he did he wouldn't be telling her that right now, and with what has happened it really was time to put things under the bring and bury them beneath the surface of the water where they'd eventually drown into nothingness as if they never ever existed. At least that is what he had hoped. He was here now to be a shoulder to lean on and help her threw this tragic ordeal. Do what he can to make the blow lighten. It was weird being at her house the house her and her husband had once shared, but she did agree to getting something to eat. Which he was glad he didn't have to fight her on that. If he had to pick her up and carry her he would have, but she lead him into the house and he took in the surroundings.. If it was her mothers house perhaps it would have felt a little less awkward, but he himself was growing into being in there and smiled softly looking over the place. It was very lovely place and would be great for kids. She had told him to excuse the mess and that she hasn't felt like doing cleaning. Could he blame her?Hells no.. She has been suffering and is pregnant why would she want to clean? He chuckled softly .. " You mean you don't have family members on a leash to clean for you or a maid or a butler hidden in a closet." He teased. He let her lead the way and into the huge old fashioned kitchen, it was gorgeous. " So what do you fancy eating?" He asked. If you tell me where everything is I can attempt to make you it." Attempt was the key word. He wasn't a wonder cook and could do simple things, but not fancy fancy stuff. He wanted her to at least get something in that gut. She did have a lovely home and even if there was a little mess it didn't matter what mattered was she was okay, and coping even if it was a little bit. He was glad to see her out of bed, and even seen a few small smiles and that was progress. He knew the hurt would be there for a long time. She eventually would get passed it when she has the two bundle of joys. He hoped they'd be healthy, and the best way to make sure it happens is by her keeping them happy in that tummy and well nourished. " What made you think to buy this place? It must have cost a fortune." He was curious and a little bit nosy, but was trying to make some more conversation. It was good to be able to be around her again they had been friends for so long, but if you asked him 5 yrs ago if here was where he thought he'd be he'd have a different answer. Oh the things he has learned in the past year. [bg=595c5f][atrb=border,0,true]

When Gregg followed her into the house and past the devils trap that Ryder had inlaid in various places on the floor and ceiling, Simi suddenly let out a long breath she hadn't even been aware of holding. It made her feel mean and petty but evidently her subconscious had needed the extra reassurance that Gregg was truly Gregg this time around. Not some poor possessed man with a demon riding his body. Thankfully, it did seem to be just Gregg in his body and none of the safety precaution in the house flickered. This reassured something down deep inside of her since she wasn't feeling the best judge of character at the moment. Pausing in the kitchen, Simi glanced around the room and then went to the fridge to peer in. For a moment, she stood there staring inside and then grimaced. Casting a glance over her shoulder at her companion, she chewed on her bottom lip for a moment before replying. "You know what.... On second though.... Lets go out. I don't even have any eggs here. I haven't gone grocery shopping in awhile... " since before Ry's death, in fact "and even the milk is spoiled. There are some decent places in town and its not that far a drive... It would probably do me good to get out of the house for a bit." Catching a glimpse of herself in the reflection of the freezer, she grimaced. "If you don't mind waiting just a few minutes.... I suppose I should brush my hair and change my clothes. If I go looking like this they'll probably think I escaped from the looney bin." which probably wasn't honestly that far from the truth these days. "That is.. it thats all right with you?" [bg=595c5f][atrb=border,0,true]

He had walked into the house and followed her and listened to her speak, he didn't know of the traps and stuff set in the house to make sure he was who he said and that he was indeed human still and not someone repossessed to kick her when she is down. He followed her to the kitchen and let her look threw things to see what she had wanted, and if she wanted him to try to make something he would or he could order out. It didn't matter to him. He'd pay. She needed to eat! He'd force feed her if he had to. She was looking threw the fridge and she said she had no eggs and that they should go out instead. His brow arched at that and gave her an ' are you sure you want to?' look, but she thought it was what she needed and it would do her some good it really would. She asked him if that was okay and that it wasn't that far of a drive.. " I don't mind at all, and your silly you know that you still look as gorgeous as ever, but please go get changed and cleaned up if you like, i'll wait right here." He told her. She could never look like she escaped the loon, bin. He had a seat while he waited for her to go get cleaned up so that they could head to town and get somethings for her and the babies, especially since things like the milk were bad and she hadn't been in some time. It was good get those things sorted, and she could have somethings for the babies to snack on. It was good that she actually did see him and didn't send him away and that they had this time to talk. It was good for them, and would be good to move on past all the horrid experiences in the past. He tapped his fingers on the counter top as he waited for her to get ready. He was shocked none of the other family members had went shopping or scooped out her fridge or made sure she was eating proper. She needed too. He looked around the kitchen as he waited. She has grown so much since when they dated who would have thought they'd both be where they are now? [bg=595c5f][atrb=border,0,true]

[Gregg Allen Steine]

At Gregg's agreement, Simi gave him a half hearted smile that didn't fully reach her eyes before leaving the kitchen and heading up the stairs. Glancing down at herself, she realized she was still in her Hello Kitty PJ shorts and maternity t shirt and grimaced. Oh yeah, she was sure making a fashion statement these days. A wry smile played about her lips as she heard Ry's laughing voice teasing her about it in her head. The reminder was painful enough to bring tears to her eyes but for the first time, she didn't try to block it away. Instead, she took a deep breath and let it fill her until some bit of truth pinged in her soul. For weeks she'd been in denial but now acceptance tried to worm its way into her emotions. Acceptance she couldn't really deal with at the moment but would as soon as she was alone once more. For now, it was enough that the fog she'd been living in had begun to roll back. It wasn't gone but some trickle of life cut through the dense mass to make her heart beat once more. Hurrying into her bedroom, she avoided looking at the bed and pulled on a sundress that seemed more like a tent in her mind these days before brushing her hair and then wandering back down stairs Finding Gregg in the kitchen where she'd left him, she paused and finished pulling up her hair in a messy ponytail. Then, she frowned and looked back in the hallway. "Damn it..... Where did I leave my sandals?" she exclaimed, half to herself and half aloud. It was a common mistake that she'd often made through out the years and the familiarity of it was comforting on some level. She never could keep track of her shoes. "I swear those things have feet of their own..." The next few minutes were spent looking for her sandals before they were finally found underneath the chaise in the parlor room. Grimacing, Simi glanced at Gregg. "Um... Would you mind getting those for me?? If I get down there, I'm probably not getting up anytime soon." she said, resignation ringing in her tone. As she waited, she rubbed her face abashedly and then smiled at him when he did as she asked. "Thank you so much.....These days... Every day things are almost impossible. I think I'm going to have to give in to Tam's prodding and either go stay with her or have her come visit me for the last few weeks. " Then, slipping her feet into the flip flops, she sighed. "All right... Ready when you are. You want to drive or should we take the truck?" [bg=595c5f][atrb=border,0,true]

It was amazing to him how things had changed and let her go off to go get changed. She had been dressed in Hello Kitty jammies and hello kitty was something that Simone liked that was for sure. She always was a hello kitty nut he remembered finding the stuff everywhere and it made his nose wrinkle a little at the thought of that. How that life seemed as if it were a distant dream almost as if it had been a movie. He looked around the Kitchen as he waited. He knew he couldn't rush as pregnant lady, so waited patiently. It was good he could come and help out after everything and gave them time to catch up on things. She had came down, dressed in a sundress and looked as gorgeous as ever and was looking for her sandles, as smile spread across his lips. "I am glad to know some things never change." She had always been losing her shoes in college. He chuckled and shook his head when she said she thinks they have feet of their own. " Maybe the do. Little people who live in your shoes when your not wearing them or something like that old woman who lived in a shoe with loads of children..or something.." He had said with a shrug of the shoulder. She had asked him if he could get her sandles for her when she finally found them tucked under the chaise in the parlor room, and he followed her voice to go help her with that. " Looks like they didn't hide good enough, because you found them. " He stated, and bent down to pick them up for her. It was right she'd probably wouldn't be able to get up if she got down to get them.. She was telling him how she'd probably have to prod Tams or someone to come stay with her in the last weeks. " Tams?" He asked arching a brow and handing them over to her wondering if he had met this person or not. " Anyways, I think it would be good for you to have some stay with you and make sure things go okay and can help you with them run away shoes. I swear Simone we are gonna get you a leash for these things while we are out." He said teasing her. She had thanked him for getting them. " It's no problem. You're welcome." He had replied. She had told him he was ready after she slipped on her shoes and said he could drive or take the truck. " I don't know if you should be driving so I can drive, and I promise I won't try to kill you this time." He reassured, and ushered her to the door. " Purse?" he asked as he opened the door. " After you." He said politely as he waited for her to go out it and headed out to the car. Once in it didn't seem to take too long to get into town, and it had been sometime since the two of them were in a car together the last time replayed over and over in his head, that too seemed as if it were a dream, but he wasn't the one in the drivers seat driving it was some demon some hell spawn wanting to kill her. [bg=595c5f][atrb=border,0,true]

[Gregg Allen Steine]

Ok, so maybe getting into the car was a bit harder than the rest but Gregg was trying to hard that she found that she didn't want to hurt him by acting suspicious. So, into the car she climbed and once they were moving, she gradually relaxed the tension in her body that she hadn't even been aware of. The realization was just another of the many conflicting ones that seemed to have taken up residency in her mind since Ry's death and once again, she felt her eyes swim with hot tears. Refusing to shed them here though, she turned to look out the passenger window and dashed them away circumspectly. When she could speak again, she forced a smile to her lips and rambled on about a bunch of nothing. Things about her family and their shared friends and how beautiful the weather had been lately although she really didn't have a clue. She hoped she was making sense but the chatter helped stem the tide of memories that threatened her sanity. Soon enough, thankfully, they reached town and Simi directed him to a small pizza parlor. To her surprise, as they approached the door, the smell of the spicey sauce made her stomach growl and she realized that she really was hungry. One of the babes gave a swift kick and she rubbed the spot ruefully even as Gregg held the door open and beckoned her in. "God, that smells so good..." she whispered, surprise and bemusement in her tone as she glanced up at her companion. "I haven't had any appetite lately.... Guess Pizza still does the trick after all these years. Either that, or Thing one and Thing Two inherited the love from me and are putting in their two cents worth." In short order, they were shown to a table and Simi found herself watching Gregg awkwardly over the top of it. She wondered if he were as self conscious as she was and amazement that they were even speaking flooded her. There was so much history between them yet... Everything had changed. She wasn't sure what to say so she settled for sipping her sprite with the waitress brought it and playing with her napkin. Part of her wondered if she should even be here... be out of the house.. trying to behave normally... With Ry so fresh in the grave, it was like she was detached from the world and her perceptions were all shot to hell. "So.... um..... What have you been doing? I mean...." ok, that was real smooth, Winchester, she thought to herself. "I mean, I heard that you were at the academy but I haven't seen you when student teach.. taught.... " [bg=595c5f][atrb=border,0,true]

Gregg had taken Simi out of the house it was good for her to get out and he didn't even know she was cautious about getting into a car with him. If he had, could he blame her? Last time they were in a car together, it was a horrific event and she could not be blamed for the caution of it all. He was glad he could help her right now in a time of need and get her out of the house and to get some food. She had to eat if not for herself for the babies, and she needed to do some shopping. On the ride, there was some small talk mostly because neither of them knew what to say. It was weird in that way, but hey, at least they weren’t trying to kill each other right? When they arrived in town he pulled in front of a pizza shop, he slipped out and opened the door for her being gentlemen and when she was out of the car, he closed the door and opened the shop door as well. It seemed as if she still loved the smell of pizza and even if she didn’t the babies did. “See this will do you some good, Simone.” He had said ushering her into the shop so that they could order. They were ushered to a table, and he let her sit first before he sat himself, and they ordered their drinks and ordered some pizza. It was amazing them talking to each other, and it was good for them to make amends. She had began some small talking asking him what he had been up to and she heard that he was training at the academy. “I have been up to a bunch of things after getting out of the hospital it just didn’t seem right going back to my old life ya know? Things had changed and football didn’t seem as important anymore.” Yes, he still loved football, but there were people in trouble and he wanted to be a part of that. “I do train there some of the time not all of the time, so maybe that is why we haven’t crossed paths. I didn’t know you student taught there. Do you like it?” He asked curious. It would be good for her to be there right about now too could keep her head in the game and away from other things. Even if she didn’t go back at least he got her out of the house for a little bit and some food in her so he was trying to be the good friend, the type he was before all the shit that happened and before they were together way back when they first met and became friends. He wasn’t trying to skate back in or replace her hubby just be a friend. In a time like this, she could use all that she could get. He hates that she has to suffer like this. “Do you plan to go back?” He asked sipping his drink, and looking around the place he learned to know your exits and the things around you. You never knew when demons could attack or other things. [bg=595c5f][atrb=border,0,true]

[Gregg Allen Steine]

Listening to Gregg talk, Simi put a hand over her stomach and then watched his face carefully. Although the feelings were different now and they couldn't ever go back to the way things were, it was nice to have him near again in that strange way that only fate allowed. Studying him gave her distraction from the present and she allowed her thoughts to turn back the clock to the first night they'd met. He'd been out with the guys after a football game and she'd been with Abby, trying to keep her friend from getting into trouble. Neither one of them had been much interested in all the drinking and screwing that was going on so they'd taken a walk. They'd ended up talking until dawn and had swapped numbers. At the time, Simi had had no clue that her companion was the rising star of the Texas A&M football team because Gregg had been so nonchalant about it but a few dates later, she had been amazed at how lucky she'd been to catch his eye. There were literally thousands of girls who would have loved to have their turn but Gregg had seemed as devoted to her as she had him. It was why they'd been able to make it work for the two and a half years they dated when most couples fell apart. And what eventually led to his downfall, her inner voice couldn't help but chime in. And there went the guilt again. "I'm sorry, Gregg. I know how much you loved football and you were so good at it.... " she whispered, leaning forward to touch his hand before pulling away and giving a resigned sigh. "You know.... This pink elephant between us is getting kind of crowded and i've recently learned the hard way that life is to short to carry around the burden of things that you'd wish you'd said or done so I'm going to just cut to the chase. You and I.... We've got a lot of history... You had a rough crash course into the world I have lived in all my life and you've seen what it can do to a person.." she said softly, playing with her straw. " When I left for college... I wanted to put this all behind me. I didn't want to live this sort of life and I thought if I just... pretended, maybe, that it didnt' exist... I could have a normal, every day life. Only, it didn't work out like that. Its to much a part of who I am I guess. If I had thought for even a moment that you would have gotten dragged into it... I never would have done it. I hope you know that... I never meant for you to get hurt or end up in this hellish existance that we hunters face every day." Pushing a tawny lock out of her face, she gave him a sad, haunted smile even as she continued. "Hind sights always twenty twenty I guess though, right? I just... I want you to know that I don't hold you responsible for anything and I know that you did the best you could in a situation that was beyond your comprehension. I still.. I'd still like us to be friends if possible... Granted, it probably won't ever be the same.. I mean, obviously its not but.. I'm talking friendship wise... You and I.... Well, if you ever need anything or if there is something I can do to help...." Letting her voice trail off, Simi bit her lip before continuing. "Damn... I'm really making a mess of this aren't i? I guess, I'm just trying to say that I still care and I'd like to see you happy again. I hate seeing that haunted look in your eyes and knowing that I'm responsible for putting it there." [bg=595c5f][atrb=border,0,true]

With Gregg, Football had been a part of his life threw so long in high school and college, and well he had a wild ride and met some amazing people. The woman before him being one of them and her friend Abbie who he seems to run into every now and again. They have a long and complicated history the lot of them, but it was good to be sat here and out to lunch and burning the bridges that were making things awkward and like a big heavy elephant that is sat upon them. Yes, things would never ever be the same, but at least this was a good start on getting back on track or well to a new track where things weren't so awkward. He listened to Simone speak and listened to her words, as he sipped on his own soda, looking into her eyes. It was true he had a rough crash course into her world, and it probably was because she had been in his life, but there was still that possibility it could have always happened and not because she was in his life right? They are trying to take over the world and what not. " I know you never meant for any of this to happen nor did you know it would and I seen what it does to a person this life and how things can change within a blink of an eye and throw your head for a loop into a downward spiral, but there was always a chance even if you didn't tell me of all this stuff. I would have got dragged in anyways isn't there?" He asked.. " It does seem like they are trying to take over the world and I really don't blame you fro dragging me into it." She had asked him hind sights were always twenty twenty and he nodded, He did make the best out of things he didn't understand and even when he had been possessed he tried to get her help even if he didn't understand everything, but hey at least they both are still alive right and made it threw that trauma, but now she has other trauma infecting her life, and if he could trade places with her husband he would just so that she could be happy and have a semi decent life like she had before he met his fate at the crossroads. He listened to her ramble about being friends and even snorted a little. What did she think that he was gonna try to pick up where they left off or that they'd be enemies and he blames her fully.. It was almost like old times listening to her babble and a sly grin graced his lips. " You always did babble during awkward conversations. Of course we could be friends, it isn't like I am trying to pick up where we left off and we do have a whole lotta history some good, some bad, some in between. We shouldn't let them things compromise what kinda of friendship we could have now.. and thank you if I ever need anything I'll let you know, but you already have done more then enough." He told her. " I want you to be happy again too, and it is why I thought you could use someone to talk to it may be easier to talk to me then someone of your family about everything ya know? I want you to know I don't blame you for all things that happened and I will find happiness again as well you. We just have to fight for thinks that will get us there. If that makes any sense at all." He said scrunching his nose wondering if it did. " You, are an amazing person, Simone and you will make it threw all of this and have a happy normal as possible life as it could be. If you ever need anything you know I am just a phone call away right? " It was true he was only a phone call away.. He'd do his best to help her and he did enjoy trying to help the people out there who have suffered similar things as him or help with the fight that people didn't end up like that. Demons were everywhere amongst other things. The pizza had finally came, " Eat up." he told her, he'd let her crack at it first cuz you know she NEEDS to eat more then he does, and he wants to make sure she eats trying to be a good friend. It is what one would do. [bg=595c5f][atrb=border,0,true]

[Gregg Allen Steine]

And just like that.. it was like old times again. Back before life had gotten so complicated and they had been just two friends sharing a pizza. It was nice. For the first time in weeks, Simi felt herself relax a bit and let her rigid mask melt a bit. The grief she felt was still obvious but a bit of life could be seen trickling back in slowly as they cut into the pizza and laughed as the gooey cheese seemed to want to stick on anything and everything. The smell of the pie made her stomach rumble again and the twins seemed to approve of the meal as they wiggled around and gave a good kick or two. Moaning in bemused delight at the first bite, the young mother to be found her first appetite since Ry's death and practically devoured a whole piece in one bite. Her expression was a bit abashed when she glanced at her companion and then felt her cheeks heat. "Um...sorry.... I guess... I guess I was hungry and just didn't know it.... I've been living on crackers and peanut butter lately..... " Picking up her crush, she bit into it and rubbed her tummy before continuing. "God, how many pizza's did we eat in the old days? I swear.. I think it was like.. the staple for every study session or movie night! That or Taco Bell! To this day, I still don't care to even see a Taco Bell or McDonald's bag!" she said, eyes twinkling a bit. "Its amazing We all didn't get ginormous back then! Its probably a good thing we were always on the run." Tilting her head slightly, Simi glanced around the pizza parlor and then back at Gregg. Settling back in her seat, she sighed in satisfaction even as she eye the pizza. "Its so good but.... I don't think I can manage another piece right now..... These kiddos take up to much room. " [bg=595c5f][atrb=border,0,true]

It was good to have a nice meal with Simi and good that some of the awkwardness had went out the window and around the corner. He wanted her to try to be happy for the babies and eat. Her eating would be what Ryder wanted right? So he was more then happy to take her to eat and get some food. In no way was he trying to take Ryder's place or anything they had something special once, but that was a long time ago things have changed some for the good some for the worst, but really he never thought he'd see the day that Simone would be carrying twins. He watched her as she munched down the pizza moaning as she took in the first few bites in delight and the babies must have agreed that it was yummy. He had picked a slice up and ate it slowly. She needed to eat more then he did and that was a fact. She said all she had been living off or really was crackers and peanut-butter. " If you don't be careful one might be born a cracker and the other a jar of peanut butter. You know what they say you are what you eat or something like that." He listened to her talk about the old days and Pizza and how they loved it, and it was a good thing they were on the go a lot because of what they ate pizza and Taco bell seriously was on the menu a lot. " Yes staying active to burn them calories off was always a good thing. I don't think my diet is any better now." He couldn't remember the last time he had an actual home cooked meal like his momma would make. " I know i for one wouldn't have looked good as a ginormous blimp of a man, I like my six pack." He said patting his tummy as he ate his slice. He still was one to work out constantly always on the run. She said she couldn't eat another bite, and that the babies take up a lot of room. "I am just glad you ate something besides crackers, Missy. It's good for them. If ya want we could get the rest of this to go, that way you have some at home." He said gobbling down some more and sipping on his soda, calling the waitress over to get the check, and a take away box so that they could take her over to the grocery. It must have seemed rather weird having an ex cart you off to do some shopping.. " Where to next?" He asked her he'd take her where ever she wanted to go. [bg=595c5f][atrb=border,0,true]