Later seasons, Sam not only appreciated Dean’s love for him, but he enjoyed being the center of Dean’s universe.
In the first scene 12x14, Sam is shocked that Dean is trying to save someone who is not him. It’s like, what could possibly be as important as me to Dean?
In the second scene 15x17, as tragic as it was, it really shows how comfortable Sam became in acknowledging that nothing else matters to Dean other than him.
Third scene, 15x20 (deleted scene) Dean: ‘Bring the dog on a case? No, I love that dog.’ Sam: ‘ you Bring me.
Like, dude, remember I am your first baby, and you had no problem hunting with me. Now all of a sudden you’re getting protective over a dog!!!’
