I Must Be Dreaming
by helenakyle2002
Rating: NC-17
Faith laughed with Buffy as they both stood staring at each other. "Whatcha thinking B?"
"Thinking that was way intense and I wanna do it again real soon." Buffy wrapped her arms around a still trembling Faith and sucked lightly on her shoulder. "You feel so good in my arms baby, I don't wanna ever let go."
"Don't," Faith said softly. "I hate...I mean I really hate to say this B...but we need to get dressed. Gran is waiting."
"That's okay Faith...It just means I get to unwrap ya later." Buffy smirked and pulled out of her girlfriend's arms.
Each girl went to a different corner of the room to get dressed, making sure not to watch the other. Ten minutes later both were dressed in simple jeans and turtlenecks. Faith, of course, wore the second sweater from Breanna. The red one with the family crest on it. She also packed two sweatsuits for her and Buffy to work out in.
IN THE KITCHEN
Breanna looked up from her smut paper and smiled. She heard the girls coming downstairs and went over to the bowl. She put a dozen medium sized blobs of batter on the griddle.
The slayers walked hand in hand into the kitchen. Faith put the bag on the chair.
"Morning Gran."
"Morning Breanna."
"From the looks on your faces, I would say it is a great morning." Breanna winked at them and turned the pancakes.
Both girls blushed and shook a fist playfully at Breanna. They sat down at the table and when they realized they were holding hands, they looked at Breanna and let go.
"No sense in giving Gran any more ammo to help Red tease us B."
"I think Willow will be too busy to want to keep that up Faith."
"Good point B. I hope they will be as happy as we are."
RING RING
"I'll get it," Buffy dashed off to the phone. "Hello?"
"Hello Buffy. Are you and Faith coming here to train any time soon?" Giles smiled, knowing instinctively why the girls weren't there yet.
"After breaky, we'll head over there. Give us a break Giles, we just got up." Buffy realized how that sounded and tried to change the foot in her mouth. "I mean, long day yesterday...right?"
"And an even longer night, no doubt."
"Giles! Oh my god." Buffy's face went beet red. Faith took the phone out of a stunned Buffy's hands.
"Hey G-Man, what did you say to her?"
"Good morning again Faith. I will assume that you are feeling much better now?"
"Oh yeah. I..uhhh." Faith had the same shellshocked look at Buffy.
Breanna grabbed the phone, "Now Rupert, it's a little early to begin teasing them. Especially on an empty stomach. I'm sure ye can wait til they show up there. Now let them eat or they will never get there."
"Of course Breanna. You are keeping an eye on Faith aren't you?"
"Yes, she's fine." Breanna turned around to see the Slayers in each others arms leaning against the counter. Faith was trying to put the pancakes on the plate. But this was proving to be difficult, what with Buffy sucking on her neck and whispering;
"You're so sexy baby."
"SHIT!" Faith whined as she missed the plate and the pancake fell on the floor. "Beeeeeeeeeee....."
Breanna laughed and said goodbye to Giles. She gently pushed the girls back to the table and served up the remaining pancakes.
"Eat."
"Yes Gran."
"Yes M'am."
The Slayers made short work of their breakfast and insisted on loading the dishwasher. Faith made a cup of special English Breakfast tea for Breanna and sat her down at the table she had just cleared.
"How do you feel this morning Gran? Anything I need to know about?" Faith was watching how Breanna moved around.
"I'm fine Dearheart. I feel half my age, which only makes forty something."
Buffy's face showed she thought that was still old.
"Now you look here Wee One, forty isn't old and you two will get there sooner than you think," Breanna stated sensibly.
"Wee One?" Faith giggled and Buffy pouted until her girlfriend leaned over and kissed her softly on the lips.
"How come you get a nice nickname like 'Dearheart' and I get... 'Wee One'?" Buffy stopped just short of stamping her foot.
Faith and Breanna burst out laughing at the same time. Buffy finally joined in. *Gonna get you two somehow.*
"Come on B, let's motor. Giles sounded a little antsy. I wanna see how he really is today before we start sparing. Okay?"
"Of course. Faith, can we take the car? I love holding you when we ride on your new bike...but...it's kinda cold out there."
"No problem B. Gran, what are you going to do today? Do you want to come with...us?"
"You mean that Dearheart? I really would like to see you to spar."
"Grab your coat, let's not keep G-Man waiting." Faith grabbed the bag with the workout clothes and followed.
Breanna went to the closet and handed out everyone's coat and then went out the front door. Breanna stilled Buffy's hands that were holding the keys. She pointed to Faith who had her shiney new keys in hand. Buffy nodded in understanding. Faith locked the door and went over to the car. She held the front door open for Buffy and the back door open for Breanna.
AT GILES
Wesley and Giles put several weapons in the training room.
DING DONG
Giles answered the door and all three ladies came in. He took their coats and handed them to Wesley to hang up. He immediately went over to Faith. "I assure you Faith, I'm fine. Do stop worrying about me please."
Faith looked skeptical for a moment. Her eyes flashed silver and changed back.
"See?"
"Okay G-Man. I just...needed to be sure."
"I understand. Now about training. Faith, be honest with me. Are your reflexes back to normal?"
"Yes G-Man. Ask Gramps if ya don't believe me."
"I just don't want you to hurt yourself unecessarily."
Faith took Buffy's hand and grabbed the bag. They headed for the change room attached to the training room.
IN THE TRAINING ROOM
Both girls were doing stretching exercises to warm up. Breanna, Giles and Wesley were watching. When the girls got into fighting position, they held their collective breaths for a minute.
Lightning fast, Faith's leg shot out to take Buffy down. Buffy blocked it with her own leg. Both girls smiled and threw identical punches which were also blocked. Buffy got one punch through Faith's defenses. Faith retaliated with another even faster leg sweep. Buffy landed on her ass.
"OWIEEEE!" Buffy looked up a the dark slayer.
"OWIEE...B?" Faith laughed.
Buffy quickly grabbed Faith's left leg and yanked her down.
THUD Faith landed on her ass. "Hey! No fair B!"
"All's fair in love and war baby." Buffy stuck her tongue out.
*Okay B, if that's the way ya wanna play.* Faith smirked at Buffy and immediately sent the most erotic thoughts and pictures through their bond. Buffy gasped. Concentration was gone instantly just as Faith knew it would be.
Breanna knew by the look on Buffy's face what Faith was doing. She smiled and explained the newest Slayer Game to the Watchers.
"One of them starts sending uh...erotic thoughts and pictures and the other joins in. Seeing who breaks first can be quite comical."
The stunned Watchers blinked at Breanna. "Surely you're joking?" Wesley choked out.
All three looked at the girls again. By now, Buffy had started to send pics of her own. Both girls were barely containing their more primal side. But neither was willing to conceed defeat...yet.
"Uh...girls?" Giles tried to interrupt them. "Sparing...physically does not include what you're doing now and I bloody well hope that neither of you would do such a thing in a real fight."
Faith looked at Buffy, she knew just how close they both were to diving on each other, the hell with their audience. She whispered in Buffy's ear; "Truce...til later?"
"You started it Faith, you ...oh god...stop first." Faith was bringing out the big guns. She showed Buffy herself masturbating calling out Buffy's name. Buffy shuddered. "Okay, okay...I'll stop if you do."
The girls closed their eyes for a moment and allowed their breathing to return to normal. They jumped up and looked sheepishly at their Watchers and Breanna.
"Moving right along...please try different combinations of kicks, punches and responsive moves." Giles wanted to forget what he had just learned. *The Council would not be pleased at how they use their slayer connection.*
Wesley smiled, thinking how useful their bond could be. *If the Council knew...bloody hell, they can never find out.* "You two are the most bloody difficult and complex Slayers ever to exist."
"Awwwww, poor Wes. Whatsa matter, two hot chicks with super powers scare ya?" Faith grinned and dodged a punch thrown by Buffy. She kicked out and met air. Buffy had jumped up and over Faith. She landed and knocked Faith to the ground. She put her foot on Faith's back. "Say Buffy rules and Faith drools."
*Not in my lifetime B.* Faith turned her healing power on, she knew the silver eyes would give her a second or two to get out from under Buffy and then...then the blonde slayer would pay. Faith turned her head around and the smirk on her face was beautiful. Her eyes glowed and Buffy's mouth dropped open and her concentration was lost. Faith quickly hauled Buffy down. Buffy looked up at Faith. "What was that about drooling B?"
"You don't play fair Faith." Buffy pouted.
"Round two?" Faith asked.
"Not a bloody chance. You two are incorrigible. Please refrain from abusing your link in front of us. Now then, grab the staffs and start practising with them if you please." Giles said in a gruff voice.
"Ya know B, I think our Watchers could use a bit of a workout... don't you?"
"Absolutely Faith."
They girls shook their staffs at the men and challenged them.
"Contrary to popular belief Faith...I am not that stupid. Two Slayers against two reasonably normal men? No. I like my body parts the colour they are. Black and Blue...do not suit a man of my disposition." Wesldy crossed his arms and gave the girls a stern looked that was mirrored by Giles.
"Okay, you two against me and then against B. In other words, get your asses in here." Faith demanded.
Breanna thought that sounded fair and said so. "Go for it gentlemen."
Wesley came in and brought a staff with him. Giles went to the weapons locker and brought out and ancient staff that had been in his family for generations.
"You do promise to heal any damage we mere mortals take don't you Faith?" Wesley was no dummy, he knew that he and Giles were still outnumbered, even against one Slayer.
"Yeah, yeah..get your limey ass over here." Faith went into an offensive stance.
Giles had tried to sneak up on Faith from behind, but should have known better. As he was picking himself up off the floor, Wesley joined him. Faith was leaning on her staff laughing. "Come on, you can do better than that. Christ Gran could beat you two up and not break a sweat."
The men jumped up, looked at each other and came at Faith together this time. Giles staff went flying and Wesley was getting up off of the floor again.
"Ya know G-Man...in order to take part in staff training the first rule is: Hang on to your weapon."
Buffy and Breanna laughed at the look on Giles face. "Yes, well... Shall we try again?"
Faith jumped straight up and when she came down she smacked both men across the top of their heads and they dropped like dominoes. Both men saw stars...and three Faiths.
"Rule number two: When seeing triple...aim for the one in the middle." Faith was ready for them.
Giles managed to nail Faith's rib on the left side.
"OOOOOFFF!" Faith stepped back. "Nice shot G-Man."
Buffy growled and was held back by Breanna. "She's fine Wee One. Let her have her fun. Your turn is next."
Wesley's staff glanced off of Faith's cheekbone. A fine line of blood rolled down her face.
That was it took. 'GROWLLLLLLL' Buffy charged.
"INCOMING!" Breanna yelled. She put her hands over her eyes with split fingers.
Wesley dropped his staff and put his hands up in surrender. His life passed between his eyes. He knew he was toast. Faith grabbed Buffy's staff before it could hit Wesley. "Easy there baby. They both got their shot in fair and square.
Buffy gradually calmed down but the look she gave the Watchers chilled them both to the bone.
The Englishmen were both thinking the same thing: Facing Buffy in Slayer mode would be more than they could handle just as Faith was. Lucky shots were just that...lucky. But facing Buffy in Angry Slayer mode was just plain suicide.
Breanna came in offering to make them some tea while the girls showered and changed. The men knew a life saver when they heard one.
"Absolutely wonderful idea Breanna." Giles looked pointedly at the Slayers and then at Wesley.
"Uhhh...yes." Wesley stumbled after them leaving the Slayers to themselves.
"Heal yourself Faith."
"It's just a minor cut B. I'm fine." Faith touched her cheek.
"Yes you are...please fix it and the bruise I bet you have on your rib."
Faith's eyes turned silver for a moment. The small cut on her cheek vanished as did the bruise.
"Feel better now B?"
"Still want a piece of them," Buffy huffed.
"You look so hot when ya go all protective." Faith dropped her staff and so did Buffy. They came together naturally. Their kiss lasted a good long time. Finally they broke apart panting. They knew their 'horny slayers' wanted out and wanted out now.
Faith picked up Buffy and flew into the changeroom. Clothes were stripped at the speed of light. Buffy shoved Faith against the wall with a force that cracked a few tiles, not that either of them noticed or cared,and started nipping along her neck as Faith squeezed Buffy's ass and moaned deeply.
UPSTAIRS IN GILES KITCHEN
The watchers sat down gingerly, both having sore asses from landing on them, and waited for Breanna to pass them their life's blood...a good strong cup of Earl Grey Tea.
"I say, Buffy is rather protective of Faith isn't she?" Wesley griped.
"As protective of Faith as Faith is of her. I pity anyone who messes with either of them. Two angry Slayers would be a death sentence to anyone foolish enough to try to hurt them." Giles had already seen 'protective Buffy' in action and was sure Faith was just as bad.
"Considering their nocturnal activities, I think their closeness will only help. What we all seem to keep forgeting is that they are still young. I mean Faith just turned twenty-one and Buffy will be twenty-two next month. Don't ye remember your first all consuming love gentlemen?"
Both Brits blushed and looked away before sipping their tea.
IN THE CHANGE ROOM DOWNSTAIRS
"B...., need you...in me...pleaseeeeee." Faith begged.
Buffy slowly ran her fingers between Faith's legs and wasn't surprised to find her legs slicked with moisture. "Like that baby?"
"Yeah B," Faith leaned forward to suck on the nipple in front of her face. Buffy drew in a sharp breath and sighed. When she started to squirm and moan, Faith couldn't take it...she pushed Buffy down on the floor and crawled on top of her. She slid back and forth. Both girls were sopping wet and sliding was easy.
"Oh god Faith...faster." Buffy bucked up hard.
"Mario Andretti's got nothing on me B," Faith slipped her hand down between them and entered hard and fast. Buffy surged upwards and moaned.
"Yeah baby...like that." Buffy started chewing on Faith's stiffened nipple. "Fuck me Faith!"
Hearing that tone and command did something to Faith. Buffy felt her girlfriend dripping on her and smiled. "Want me Faith?" Buffy teased.
"Got ya B," Faith teased right back and before Buffy could answer, she started shaking. Her orgasm ripped through her along every single nerve ending in her body.
"Ohgodohfuck...FAITHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!" Buffy screamed.
Feeling Buffy cum sent Faith careening over the edge as well.
"FUCKMEEEEE....BEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!"
UPSTAIRS
Giles, Wes and Breanna all stared at the stairs leading down to the training room. They had heard Buffy's appreciation of Faith's talents as well as Faith's colourful response.
"God lord!" Giles blushed.
"That wasn't...what I mean to say is..." Wesley knew then he had heard exactly what he thought he had heard and joined Giles in the land of uncontrollable blushing.
Breanna smiled and sipped her tea nonchalantly. "I believe I will take Faith to the electronic store and explain what a portable white noise generator is."
"Excellent idea Breanna," Wes said and Giles agreed rather quickly. "Indeed, a most excellent suggestion."
DOWNSTAIRS
"Geez B, I think they heard you on the moon." Faith was laughing as she cuddled the smaller blonde woman in her arms.
"It's all your fault Faith. You...you're fucking amazing." Buffy was still panting and trying to catch her breath.
"And an amazing fuck...huh B?" Faith smirked and then kissed her lover quickly to cover whatever she might have tried to say. A few minutes later, Faith stood up and held out her hand to Buffy. They both took a shower, and tried not to touch each other. But when their skin did come in contact with each other, they both shuddered. There was still a lot of heat between them. At the same time both women reached for the cold water tap.
"AAAAAA," Buffy hollered.
"SHITTTT!" Faith whined.
They got out quickly and dried off. They dressed in silence. "God Faith, if you didn't have to shop for Petey and the rest of those kids...I'd...."
"You'd what B?" Faith leaned in and blew hot air into Buffy's ear while licking along her jaw line.
"MMMM, take you home, lock the door...and ravish you til you begged me to stop...then ravish ya some more." Buffy's voice had slipped a couple of octaves and Faith felt it along her spine.
"Horny little Slayer aren't ya B?" Faith grinned.
"Only around you Faith. But I know...you want to get shopping for the kids." Buffy understood that Faith was truly enjoying herself by spending her new found fortune on people who were less fortunate than herself. *She used to be one of them, and now she is gonna take care of as many people as she can.*
"Wanna be ravished too B...raincheck?"
"Count on it baby. We should get dressed and head upstairs."
UPSTAIRS IN GILES KITCHEN
"I say, why does Faith want to go shopping today? I thought she was happy with her gifts." Wesley asked.
"She is going to pick up everything the kids wanted but didn't get for Christmas Mr. Price."
"And spend time with Peter of course," a wise Giles added.
"Who is Peter exactly. I know Willow arranged for Faith to go see him last night." Wesley looked from his fellow Watcher to Breanna for an answer.
"He is an eight year little deaf boy that Faith has bonded with. She came to my home to rescue the wee lad. She fought demons, vampires and my useless grandson. I believe she will adopt him in time."
"Faith? A mother? I do see the changes in her but...raising a child when one is a Slayer will be bloody difficult." Wesley was stunned by Breanna's prediction.
"Ye have never seen the two of them together Mr. Price. Rupert...tell him."
"They are well matched Wesley and I think it would be a good thing for Faith to do. But it won't happen just yet. She needs to feel comfortable around everyone and be certain in her own mind that she is ready for the responsibility of raising a child."
"What about that...uhhhh...abuse of their bond?"
"What abuse?" Faith asked as she and Buffy, holding hands asked as they entered the kitchen. Wesley blushed beet red and Faith laughed. "WELLLLL?" Faith knew the younger Brit was at a loss for words and was enjoying it immensely.
Buffy swatted her on the arm. "Give him a break Faith...I think we broke something in him," Buffy giggled.
"We're two hot chicks with super powers and in love...deal with it Wes." Faith turned and laid a very passionate kiss on her girlfriend.
Buffy knew if they didn't leave to go shopping now...they would head home and just do what comes naturally to them.
"Faith," Buffy said as she pulled away from her, "Shopping...we should get going."
"Yeah B, we should. Coming Gran?"
"Of course Dearheart, but remember to just get what's on the list. These kids all have birthdays you can go nuts on." Breanna knew that once Faith saw all the cool stuff, she would buy everything in sight. "Where is your sword?"
"At home, I didn't think I would need to go shopping. B, can we stop off and grab it?"
"Of course, I don't want you too far from it. I know you baby, if you see someone that needs help...you will do whatever you can for them."
RING RING
Giles answered his phone. "Hello?"
"Hi Giles, are the girls there?"
"Yes Angel, they are just leaving to get the sword and then going to the mall."
"Well, I'm here at their place. I can climb the tree and enter Buffy's room. Ask Faith where she left the sword please."
Giles handed the phone to Faith telling her it was Angel.
"Hey Gramps, what's up?"
"I'm here...at your place. Where is the sword? I'll bring it to the mall for you."
"It should be on the table I left it on last night after... after." Faith broke down and looked at Giles.
"Now, now Faith, none of that. You did an excellent job on me last night."
"Listen to him GD, you saved his life. Promise me that you won't lose the ability to make decisions...medical ones."
"That's why I have to go to University. So I don't fuck up again. This time I got lucky...Pop was available to correct me, he may not be there next time. Thinking I'll stick to things I'm sure I can fix...for now."
CRASH!
"What the fuck was that? Gramps...are you okay?"
"Tell Buffy I just accidently broke that pink vase on her dresser. I'll replace it today...I promise."
"Hey B, Gramps just broke your vase but he said he will replace it."
"What vase? I don't have one."
"Relax Wee One, I put it there and filled it with roses. I thought you two would be spending the night in that room. I'm sorry I didn't think to put some in Faith's room."
"S'okay Breanna. It's the thought that counts." Buffy hugged the older woman.
"Beeeee...shopping...then ravishing...then..." Faith licked her lips and Buffy groaned.
"God lord," Giles gently pushed the girls towards the door where Wesley handed them their coats. Giles helped Breanna put hers on.
AT THE MALL
Angel saw them pull in and brought the box containing Faith's special sword over to her. She pulled it out, recharged and handed it to Breanna who also gained some energy. It was placed back in the box and put into the trunk of girls car.
AT THE ORPHANAGE
Willow and the kids came into the common room bearing gifts. The kids wanted to wrap them themselves. Peter ran to the cupboard and brought back silver and red hologram wrapping paper.
"Fa...ith likes re...ed."
"I know she is your special bud Peter, but will you let me wrap the pants?" Alan asked, then realized that didn't work. He pointed to himself and the pants and pantomimed wrapping.
Peter nodded and handed him the bag. Alan ran up to his room and brought down the perfect sized box. When he was finished wrapping it, he motioned Peter over and handed him the bow. Tiffany grabbed the card and went to every resident and had them sign it. David asked Willow to help him wrap the name origin plaque. Once both gifts had been wrapped, the kids wanted to know when Faith was gonna get there.
"Well you all know Ms. Clause is picking up everything on her list right now. So I think she will be here in a couple of hours.
The Director came in and motioned Willow over. He handed her a paid bill for twenty little space heaters. "Do you know anything about this? The men just stacked them in the back room and left."
Willow pulled out her phone and she called Faith.
"Hello?"
"Hi Ms. Claus...did you forget to tell the Director about a shipment of heaters?"
"Not me, hang on. Hey Gramps, did you send a bunch of heaters to the Orphange?"
"No, but Spike may have. He was on the phone when I left. I heard him say: Make sure they are delivered today, it's bloody freezing."
"I think a large chocolate chip cookie is called for."
"How large?" Angel licked his lips. *MMMMM...chocolate.*
"Don't worry Angel, I'll get half a dozen. But two will be boxed specially for him."
"I know I'm asking the impossible but...see if you can hurry along Miss Shop Til Ya Drop. The kids here are getting anxious to give her the presents they bought this morning. But don't tell her that...it's a surprise."
"Well Tara went to meet you all at the mall. Go to McDonald's first to meet her. She will help to reign in Faith's natural 'I want one of everything'."
"Okay Willow. I see Tara now. We'll try to get GD back there soon, but don't count on it. See you later."
"Bye Angel."
Angel smiled at the timid, recently returned blonde witch. "I'm not sure how you can do it, but we need to rush Faith...the kids are going stir crazy."
"Give me part of the list and I will get started." Tara held out her hand.
Angel divided up the list amoung Faith, Buffy and Breanna. He went with Faith.
1 HOUR LATER
"Come on Faith, we got everything on the list and the kids are waiting." Buffy grabbed Faith's elbow and tried leading her away from the window she was staring into. She pulled out her phone and called Giles.
"Hey G-Man?"
"Yes Faith? Is everything okay?"
"Yeah, we got everything. But there is a display in a window and it's wrong. Can you think of any reason that they would put three Old Kingdom relics and one Middle Kingdom one together?"
"Are you sure Faith?"
"Yes, I love Eygpt stuff and I know the difference between Kingdoms. The Middle Kingdom one shouldn't be in this setup. Please come and check it out."
"On my way, uh...what level and store are you at?"
Tara took the phone out of Faith's hand. "You need to get this stuff to the kids, I'll wait here for Mr. Giles. Mr. Giles?"
"Hello Tara, so she roped you into helping shop."
"Willow suggested that I m...may be able to get her out of here before she b...buys everything in sight. She showed me which one she thinks is wrongly placed. I'll meet you here so Faith can go deliver the goodies."
"Meet you where exactly?"
"Oops, sorry Mr. G..Giles. The jewelery store on the s..second floor."
"That's quite alright, I'll be there soon. Send Faith and the others to the kids."
"Okay, bye."
"Bye."
"Okay the rest of you, help Faith take that load to the kids. Would it be alright if I join you all there in a little while? I really want to meet Petey and the rest of them."
"Sure thing Blondie, the more the merrier." Faith picked up several large bags and was joined by Buffy and Angel.
"Not bad GD...only one trip to the cars." Angel grinned.
Faith smirked, "Challenge accepted." She set down her packages and was off and running...into the toy store.
"Damn it Angel, we had her ready to leave and you...you..." Buffy shook her fists at him. Angel raised his hands in defense.
Buffy chased after Faith, "Faith...come on baby, you have enough stuff already. Let's go!"
"In a minute B," Faith had managed to half fill the cart by the time Buffy caught up to her.
"What am I gonna do with you?" Buffy shook her head.
"Love me," Faith said softly.
"Been trying, but you don't seem to want to leave here." Buffy whispered in the dark girls ear and nibbled.
Faith's eyebrows shot up and she felt the heat. *Kids first, then B.* "Okay but we will be coming back soon."
"Anything, just hurry up." Buffy whined.
"Oh B, check it out." Faith pointed out the pewter men from Dungeons and Dragons. "Al has a collection of these. Lemme..."
Buffy took the cart and shoved Faith towards the cashier.
"Another time baby," she leaned forward and whispered: "I want you and I don't know how much longer I can wait."
Faith wiped out her credit card, paid for the extra purchases and left with Buffy. She didn't say a word because she knew it wouldn't come out right. *Want you too B.*
Once all the packages had been put into the cars the Sunndydale group headed over to the Orphanage.
Tara waited patiently for Giles to show up and when he did she just pointed to the window display. "Faith said that thing is from the wrong time period and shouldn't be there. Is she right?"
Giles leaned down to scrutinize the display. "She is correct. This one piece of an old tablet it not as old as the others, but looks real. But why would a jewelery store have museum quality relics in there window? And why aren't they open today? All of the other stores seem to be doing a booming business." Giles walked swiftly over to the camera store and bought a disposable camera. He came back and took several pictures from all possible angles. "Ummm... Mr. G..Giles?"
"Yes Tara?"
"Would you drop me off where they all went to? I would love to meet this Peter."
"He is a fine young lad. Let's go. Do tell me how you managed to get Faith out of here so quickly."
"I didn't...B...Buffy did."
"Oh good lord, she didn't...what I mean to say is..."
"I don't think either of us want to go there. She succeeded and that's all that matters. Shall we join them?"
"Absolutely," Giles held out his arm and Tara tucked hers in and together they left.
AT THE ORPHANAGE
The Sunnydale crew had their arms full as they made their way to the front door. The door opened immediately as Al had seen them coming. Unburdening themselves, everyone breathed a sigh of relief.
"Fai...ith!" Petey came running over and jumped up into her welcoming arms.
"Hey Willow, hows about a rematch?" Chan said bringing over both ping pong paddles.
"Play nice Red," Faith gave her the 'no cheating against a kid' look. Willow nodded and took the paddle. She and Chan went to the table over in the far corner and began their game.
Tiffany was standing in the corner, watching Buffy. She finally worked up the courage to speak to her. "Buffy?"
"Yes?"
"Faith is cool...don't hurt her," Tiffany said and walked away.
Buffy watched as the teenage girl walked away. *These kids really care about Faith. I wonder just how many know about us being a couple?*
Angel walked over to David, "What kind of trouble have you been getting into? And can I help?"
David laughed. "I haven't been up to anything...recently."
Angel raised his eyebrows, "But you've been thinking." He faced the teen his best non-game intimidating face.
"You can be one spooky dude when you want to be, ya know that?"
"What can I say...use what works. So what are you planning?"
Angel grinned conspiratorally as he leaned down to hear the boys plans.
KNOCK KNOCK
Anthony answered the door and was met by Giles, Breanna and Tara.
"Come in, I bet you're more of Faith's friends...right?"
"Yes, we are. I am Rupert Giles, this is Tara and Breanna. Dare I ask what Faith is up to?"
Anthony laughed, "not sure, but it has to involve Petey somehow. Those two are joined at the hip."
Breanna peaked around the door jam and saw everyone playing with the kids in some fashion or other.
"Hi Gran, hey guys...took ya long enough." Faith smiled.
Peter went over to Breanna and was picked up and hugged properly.
The old woman signed; "How's the bonny wee lad?"
Peter grinned and pointed to Faith. "Fai...ith, here." His smile lit up his little face.
"Aye and where else would she be?" Signing introductions for Giles and Tara, Breanna told the little boy they were also friends of Faith.
Buffy walked over to Tiffany and took her aside. "I love Faith and god help anyone that ever hurts her."
"Hey B, I see you met Tif. Hey Tif, how's Al?" Faith winked at the now blushing teenager.
"He's taking me to see a movie tomorrow afternoon."
"That's great Tif. Told ya he liked ya back."
Tiffany nodded and walked over to Alan who put his arm around her waist.
"Junior romance there B."
"So I see. You really do fit in around here. All the kids love you baby."
"Do have any idea how good that feels B?"
"As good as hearing you tell me that you love me I'd imagine."
The blonde woman barely restrained herself from leaning in to kiss her gorgeous girlfriend. Faith stepped back mouthing the words; "Not here...don't be mad."
"Not mad, I understand...it's just you're so," Buffy was grateful to feel Willow's magic. She gave the thumbs up to Willow who was just about to join them.
"Nice timing Red." Faith suddenly stiffened and was totally alert. She knew someone needed her special healing skills and was trying to hone in on who and where.
"Faith?" Willow saw Faith's glowing hands as she shoved them in her pockets.
"The Director, come with me please Willow. B, stay here and cover for us...don't let anyone come back until you hear from one of us."
"Okay," a worried Buffy said.
The Slayer and witch headed for the office at top speed. They saw the Director clutching his chest. Both recognized that the man was having a heartattack. Faith pulled her hands out of her pockets and approached the stricken man. "Will you let me help you?"
The man nodded and passed out. Faith place her hands on the man's chest. "Red, can you create ultrasound waves? I see a blockage in the artery."
Willow concentrated and within seconds her hands were glowing as well. Faith took the right one and placed it over the area blocked. Her silver eyes zeroed in on the blockage as it began to break up into smaller pieces. "A little more power...if you can Red."
"Trying," Willow's face took on a pained expression.
"That's the ticket Red," Faith exclaimed as she watched the smaller pieces of the blockage become infitesimal. As the blood started flowing properly again, the man moaned. "Call an ambulance now Red, he's gonna need to be checked out...Red?"
Faith turned in time to catch Willow.
"Sorry Faith, tired...how do you do it?"
"Magic sword," she sat Willow down on the couch and went back to check on the Director. "Your colour is coming back Boss. I'll get an ambulance." She picked up the phone and felt her hand grabbed.
"I just need to catch my breath. The pain is gone, and unless I'm mistaken...you just got rid of whatever caused the problem." He sat back and breathed deeply. "That's amazing, I feel...fine. Thank you Miss Winters."
"Take it easy for the rest of the day and next few as well. Any pain and you call the ambulance immediately understand?"
"Yes, and should that be necessary...I won't tell anyone who you are. Just that someone healed me...or maybe say nothing at all."
"I think that would be best sir," Willow agreed quickly.
"Stay here Red, I'll be right back."
"Faith?"
"Gonna go get your battery Red," Faith hurried out of the office and went into the common room. Buffy came over, "Is everything okay Faith?"
"Yeah, I'll explain later B. Right now I need Tara's help." Faith caught Tara's eye and the shy Wican came over. "Red needs a recharge, come with me." Tara followed the Dark Slayer and found her girlfriend showing signs of extreme exhaustion.
"Faith! What happened to her?" Tara ran over to her girlfriend.
"Easy there Tiger, she allowed me to help her. It just tired me out. I've never conjured sound waves before. I instinctively knew how to do what she wanted, but it kinda pooped me out and I don't have a magic sword like her." Willow didn't want Faith to feel like the previous night.
When the witches joined hands a light blue light that turned green enveloped them. Minutes later Willow seemed to be much better.
The Director was fascinated by all that he had seen in such a short space of time. *I know this town is on the Hellmouth, but thank god for these amazingly gifted young people.*
BZZZZZZZ
The Director answered his buzzer, "Yes?"
"Uhhh, sir...the kitchen staff are bringing out the fixings for hot turkey sandwiches and we wondered if you would care to join us?" Anthony knew that at least Faith was in there as well.
"We will be right out Anthony, thank you."
"Yes sir."
"I imagine you've worked up quite an appetite Faith?"
"GROWLLLLLL," Faith stomach answered.
The witches laughed and everyone went into the dining room.
Buffy came over to Faith and using their bond sent; "Are you okay? Do you need your sword?"
Faith sent back; "Fine, maybe later."
When the Director sat down everyone started serving themselves.
Breanna looked at both Slayers and they knew enough to recognize the 'eat...not play' look she gave them. They grinned and nodded as they ate their early dinner. After everyone had stuffed themselves they made their way back to the common, all except Tif and Al. They carried the dishes to the industrial sized dishwasher in the kitchen. When done, they rejoined their friends.
"Now Willow?" Al asked quietly.
Willow nodded and motioned Faith over. "Sit Down Ms. Claus, it's your turn."
"HUH?"
Peter brought over a red shiney package and handed it to Faith. "Fr..om allllll."
Faith's mouth dropped open and with shakey hands she took the offering from Peter. She grinned and carefully removed the paper and exclaimed: "Holy...heck! These are awesome, and they're lined...way cool. Thank you all. You didn't have to do it ya know. They're the right size too... Red?" Willow smiled and nodded.
Tiffany came up and handed her another brightly wrapped package.
"More? Guys...you..." Faith smiled and took the paper off. When she saw the fancy writing with the explanation of origin of her name, tears rolled down her cheeks. Buffy wipped them away. All the kids came in for a group hug and Faith vanished beneath them all. The rest of the Sunnydalians stood back and watched.
Seeing Faith's positive interaction with all the kids warmed Giles heart. *She is needed here.* He shared the knowing smile with Breanna as they watched Faith and Petey crawl out from under the pile. They were both missing a shoe and dove back in to look for them. Al and Tif came out holding them just out of reach.
Petey jumped and grabbed Faith's runner. He handed it to her and she just looked at Al, who immediately handed over Petey's shoe. Willow tapped Faith on the shoulder and Faith followed her to the corner. "What's up Red? You okay?"
"Fine Faith, I was just thinking."
"And that's different from normal...how?" Faith started laughing.
"RIBBIT RIBBIT!"
Faith stopped laughing.
"The sun is going down, I think it would be a good idea to invite Spike to come here. He did buy the heaters and occassionally can be trusted to behave."
"Does Gramps have his cell number?"
"I'll find out, but it's okay with you if I invite him?"
"Sure, the more the merrier." Faith was dragged off by a couple of young kids with books, that wanted to be read to. Willow obtained the cell number and called Spike. She wanted to give him his large chocolate chip cookies as well.
IN SPIKE'S CRYPT
RING RING
"Hello?"
"Hi Spike, whatcha doing?"
"Watching the telly...you?"
"Playing with the kids and I have a message for you from Faith."
"Do tell luv."
"She wants you to come here and meet the kids. We know about the heaters you bought and sent over here. That was a nice thing to do Spike."
"Was necessary, it's bloody freezing outside. Are you sure she wants me to come there?"
Willow walked over to Faith and handed her the phone. "He needs convincing." and walked away.
"Hey Spike...get your ass over here pronto."
"FAITH!" All the kids yelled at once.
"What?"
"Swear jar. Put a dollar in. It's a dollar for adults and a quarter and loss of privilidges for the rest of us," Tiffany informed the dark slayer.
Faith fished around in her pocket and dutifully put a dollar in the jar. "Oh Spike...bring lots of one dollar bills. You have to watch your language around here."
"Understood Slayer, on my way. Should I pick up anything on the way?"
"Nope, see ya soon." Faith hung up and gave the phone back to Willow.
Having lost site of Buffy a while ago, Faith went to look for her. She could feel Buffy in the vicinity. *B is in the can... waiting for me.* Faith strode in and closed the door.
Buffy pulled her into her arms and kissed her passionately. "MMMM, B...."
"Had to do it Faith," Buffy said as she looked deep into love filled brown eyes.
"MMMM, K." Faith grinned. "We should get back, we will be together soon and I will make it worth the wait...I promise B."
"One more," Buffy closed in on her gorgeous girlfriend again.
As they came out they bumped into a smiling Willow. "Thought I was gonna have to..." She raised her hands and laughed.
"Naw Red, we're cool...for now."
*Speak for yourself Faith.* Buffy thought. She was still feeling the heat created from just those two kisses.
KNOCK KNOCK
Anthony answered the door. "Another of Faith's friends?"
"Yes, I'm Spike."
Faith came over and hugged the blonde vampire. "You did a good thing for these kids Spike...thank you."
"Bollocks Slayer! Don't make such a big deal out of it."
Faith ignored Spike's request and yelled out, "Hey Boss, can you come here for a minute? This is Spike and he is the one that supplied the heaters."
The Director stuck out his hand as he thanked Spike. Spike was touched and took the man's hands saying, "Well it's bloody freezing out there."
"SWEAR JAR!" The kids yelled.
"Warned ya Spike," Faith said laughing as she pointed to the jar and Spike put in his dollar. He felt something grab at his pant leg and looked down.
"Uppy!" A tiny pink clad toddler put her chubby little hands up and looked at Spike.
"What do I do? Faith?" Spike looked afraid, confused and shocked all at the same time.
"Pick her up silly." *Men are so clueless when it comes to babies.*
Spike leaned down and gently eased the little girl into his arms. "Is this okay Princess?"
"Pretty man."
"Hey Red?"
"Hey what?"
"Do you know who this little cutie is?"
Anthony came over. "Her name is Kory and she arrived here today. Her parents died in a car accident last week. Her aunt and uncle took her in, but when they found out they weren't granted unlimited access to her trust fund...well they refused to take care of her."
"Got an address mate?" Spike growled and was enjoying thinking up new torture methods for people that wouldn't care for a small child unless paid...and paid well.
"Understand the sentiment Spike, but..." Faith said in an understanding voice. She was having a hard enough time not going to find those people and pounding on them herself.
"Horsey...horsey." Kory gave Spike a slobbery kiss.
"Get down on your..."
"I know, give me a minute." Spike pulled the belt out of his leather duster and wrapped it around his back and tied it at chest level. Then he got down on all fours. "K, luv...put her on my back and hook her fingers under the belt. I promise to move real slow."
"Giddyup...giddyup." Kory was bouncing on Spike's back.
"Actually Kory, Spike is British, so you should say 'TallyHo!'." Faith laughed.
"Tallyup Spikey."
"Close enough pet. Hang on." Spike crawled around the room and the little girl was giggling.
"Holy shit Faith, what did you say to him?" Buffy asked while watching just how gentle Spike was being with the toddler.
"SWEAR JAR!" The kids yelled and laughed. They knew the money in there went towards pizza parties in the future.
"Pay up B, and watch what ya say here...please. It's hard for me too. But these kids hear enough swearing on tv, at school and on the street. We're supposed to be better than that."
Buffy blushed, she knew Faith was right. She put her dollar in the jar and apologized.
"So what did you say to Spike?"
"Nothing B. Kory asked him for a horsey ride and gave him a big sloppy kiss. He melted and did it for her."
"Boy baby, you sure have an effect on people."
Faith wiggled her eyebrows and said nothing.
Spike crawled over to Faith. "I think she is sleepy...she stopped bouncing. Please take her."
Spike got up slowly after Faith picked up the little girl. She reached out for Spike. "Spikey."
He took her back into his arms and the little girl smiled and cuddled in closer. She fell asleep in seconds. "Isn't she the most beautiful little girl you have ever seen?"
"Oh yeah, she's gonna be a real heartbreaker when she grows up." Faith knew that Spike would protect her like a big brother.
"I don't think the boss would like it much if I took her to her room by myself. Would you come with me so I can put her down for a nap?"
"Sure, just lemme find out where her room is. Be right back."
"No hurry luv," Spike smiled at the sleeping bundle in his arms.
"Ye have a soft touch with the wee ones William." Breanna smiled at blonde vampire.
"She likes me Bre, bollocks kids never liked me...even when I was one."
"SWEAR JAR!"
Spike pulled a dollar out of his pocket and handed it to Breanna who put it in the jar.
Faith came back and led Spike upstairs. She turned right and headed to the room at the end of the hall. She opened the door and left it open. Spike walked in and gently set the sleeping child down under the covers and covered her up. He looked around the spartan room. "Faith, she needs everything. Wanna go shopping?"
"Shopping? Me? Do ya think we could sneak out and get back quick?" *If I even mention shopping to B anytime soon...hoo boy, no loving for Faith.*
"Not gonna sneak out. Buffy would kill us both. Come on, let's go talk to her...maybe Bre would help us out."
Spike and Faith cornered Breanna and put forth their request. Breanna laughed out loud. "Don't you ever get tired Dearheart?"
"Whatcha up to now Faith?" Buffy asked as she made her way over to her friends.
"Spike wants to go shopping...for Kory."
"Spike...shopping?" Buffy raised her eyebrows at Faith.
"Okay B, it was his idea..but she needs everything. Her room is empty...no toys, books...only a few outfits and training pants. We'll be back quick...I promise...pleaseeeeeee," Faith begged and gave B her best puppy-dog eyes.
Buffy laughed knowing she would let Faith do whatever she wanted when given that look. "Take Willow or Tara with you. They, at least can get YOU out of the mall sometime today. Spike...in and out, understand?"
"Yes M'am," they both saluted and crooked their finger at Willow and Tara.
The witches came over. "What's up Faith?"
"Which one of you wants to go shopping with us...now?"
"Again? What for now?" Willow's feet protested. She knew keeping up with a Slayer and Vampire was next to impossible.
"The little Princess Willow. She hasn't got a bloody thing. And I need a woman to help pick out clothes and games for her." Spike answered.
"Ahhhh, the little pink person you were giving a horsey ride to."
"Yeah...her. So who's coming with us. Come on, the stores close in less than one hour."
"I will g..go with t...them." Tara said smiling.
"So will I," Breanna added. "I need to show Faith something."
"Willow, will you sign a book to Petey to keep him occupied while I'm gone?"
"Of course Faith and Buffy can talk to Tif and Al."
"I can what?" Buffy asked in a fearful voice.
"Just talk to them B. Tell Al that gropping on the first date is a no no. And tell Tif, that Al is just as nervous as she is. We'll be back soon."
"Umm..errr...ahh, Faith?" Giles mumbled.
"Yeah G-Man?"
Giles handed her a twenty dollar bill, "Those little cookies, if you don't mind?"
"Keep yur money G-Man, I planned on grabbing ya a weeks supply while I was there."
"Then do spend it on the tiny tot that Spike seems so taken with."
"Okay softie."
Giles cleared his throat, cleaned his clean glasses, blushed and decided against saying anything that would start Faith off. Spike grabbed everyone's coats and the four of them left.
AT THE MALL
Faith ran into the toy store with Tara close behind as Spike headed into the baby clothes area with Breanna. "Meet at McDonald's in a half hour," Faith shouted over her shoulder.
30 MINUTES LATER
Tara was yawning as she slipped into the booth with Faith. Breanna smiled at the tired young witch. Spike held up a pink sleeper with slippers attached. "She will look cute in this won't she Bre?"
"Of course she will William. You have good taste."
Spike looked at Faith, "Now I know how you feel when the little bloke comes running to you the minute he sees you."
Faith smiled, "Yup they get ya right here," she pointed to her heart.
"Did you see how beautiful she is? So innocent and pure. And she likes me." Spike said in hushed voice cracking with emotion. This disbelief was evident in his voice.
"You're gonna spoil her aren't you?" Faith said with a wide grin on her face.
"About as much as you spoil Petey."
"Just keep one thing in mind Spike."
Spike gave Faith his undivided attention.
"It's all fine and dandy to buy her everything she needs but, she isn't the only child there."
"I know that Slayer. You love Petey and he gets what ever he wants, but you went bonkers for all the kids as well. I can do that...I think, with help. Do kids still like comics?"
"Most do, why?"
"Be right back."
Spike came back a few minutes later with two large white boxes with lids. He set them down.
"William?" Breanna looked at the boxes.
"The comic store had a hugh sale on. I went through a couple of boxes. This one," he pointed to the one with the red sticker on it, "has superhero comics in it. And the other one has Disney comics and other cartoon stuff for the younger kids."
"T...that was a n..nice idea Spike," Tara smiled.
"Whatcha got in the bag Gran?"
"Something for you...later." Breanna grinned mysteriously.
"But Gran, I wanna know now."
"Later Dearheart...when we get back to your house. Did ye get Rupert's cookies?"
"I'll grab them on the way out in a minute."
"Slayer?"
"Yeah Spike?"
"When you go to work tomorrow, will you keep an eye on 'The Little Princess'? It's not fun being the new kid on the block. And she's too young to understand that her parents aren't coming back for her."
"I will Spike. I can try to arrange it so you can visit her in the early evenings...if you want."
"Really? I can see her every week?"
"I don't see why not. And don't worry...I won't tell anyone that 'Spikey' is a mushball." Faith laughed.
Breanna and Tara hid their giggles behind their hands.
"You take that back Slayer! I'm tough, bad and..." Spike pouted. Faith ran up to the counter and brought back a hot fudge sundae.
She placed it in front of Spike saying, "Peace offering."
"Wait a minute Spike, don't move," Tara said as she went to the counter and came back with a little envelope. "Chocolate sprinkles."
Spike ripped it open and poured them on his sundae. From the first bite, Spike looked ecstatic. "MMMMM, hey Slayer...where's yours?"
"Not hungry Spike."
"Looking forward to the self-serve later hmmm?" Spike raised his eyebrows at the embarassed slayer.
"SPIKE!" Faith choked out as she blushed.
"WILLIAM!" Breanna swatted him on the arm.
"SPIKE!" Tara made a grab for what was left of his treat.
Spike moved faster and ran his spoon around the inside getting every last bit.
Faith bought twenty-five boxes of little chocolate chip cookies for her Watcher and then they all went back to the Orphanage.
AT THE ORPHANAGE
Buffy opened the door and hauled Faith in for a quick hug and peck on the cheek before anyone saw them. "About time you got back Faith. The kids are going crazy, they want to open all the stuff we brought but we told they had to wait for you to get back first."
The kids had a blast opening presents they knew were something they really wanted. Faith sat on the couch with her fingers interlaced with Buffy's.
When all the paper had been picked up, Faith went over to Petey and kissed him on the cheek. She signed; "I'll be back tomorrow little dude." Peter hugged Faith and said; "Fa...ith read?" Peter handed her a thin book.
Willow signed to Peter; "How about I read it for you so Faith can take Spike to say goodnight to Kory?"
"O...kay," Peter sat down and waited for Willow to begin.
Faith took Spike back upstairs to check on the little girl. Spike pushed the door open and looked in. Kory was sucking her thumb as she slept and Spike smiled. "Ya know Slayer, when you get to be as old as I am, you forget just how vulnerable kids are, how much they need to be reassured. No one better ever hurt her or I won't be responsible for my actions."
Faith knew Spike was speaking the truth and it came from his unbeating heart. They came downstairs to rejoin their friends who were all ready to leave.
"I can see and play with her...occassionally, unlike you and Petey."
Tara and Willow smiled at the blonde vampire. *Subtle Spike.* Faith didn't quite get the message though and it was obvious.
"Huh?"
"I'm sure you'll figure it out...eventually."
"Whatever. Let's go home B."
"Sounds good to me Faith."
When they went outside, Faith grabbed the McDonald's bags full of cookies and handed them to Giles. "Here ya go G-Man, a weeks supply. And you bought Kory a sleeper and the cutest pair of sneaks you have ever seen."
"Thank you and I hope to see her wearing those athelic shoes in the future."
"Count on it. But I think you might have to ask her protector," Faith pointed to Spike.
"I never thought I would see the day that you would actually enjoy playing with a kid. You've come a long way Spike." Angel stuck out his hand and Spike shook willingly.
"Faith please call me tomorrow to let me know how she's doing."
"I will Spike and I will also talk to the boss and see if you can visit her regularly."
"Appreciate that luv. I best be off. Enjoy the rest of the night all."
"Spike...wait a minute. I have something for you," Willow handed him what appeared to be two pizza boxes. Spike opened the top one and whistled, "Blimey! Now that's a cookie. Thanks Willow."
"You're welcome Spike."
Spike disappeared into the darkness.
Angel, Willow, Tara and Giles went over to Giles car and Faith, Breanna and Buffy went to Buffy's car.
"We'll call you tomorrow before you go to work Faith," Willow said as she and Tara got into Angel's car.
Giles stuck his head out of the car and asked, "Will you two be coming over tomorrow morning for training?"
Both Slayers made a face and were immediately reprimanded.
"It is necessary for the two of you to be in top form. We never know when the world is going to end... again."
"Bite you tongue G-Man. As for training, it depends on what time we get up. All I can say is we will try."
Buffy whispered in Faith's ear, "I know what I wanna try baby."
Faith swallowed hard and was pulled into her girlfriend's arms for a very passionate kiss that left both breathless.
During the drive home, Faith turned to Breanna and asked; "So Gran, what's in the mystery bag?"
"You'll see soon enough Dearheart. Patience is a virtue you know." Breanna could feel the extra energy coming off of Faith and smiled.
"What mystery bag Faith?" Buffy asked.
"Gran bought something earlier and said she would give it me when we got home...and it's driving me nuts not knowing what it is."
Buffy pulled into her driveway and Faith was out like a shot. She held open Breanna's door and rushed the woman, as much as possible, inside. Buffy laughed and followed them. She was just as curious as Faith, but wouldn't let her know.
Breanna laughed out loud seeing Faith shift her weight from one foot to the other.
"Graaannnnn!"
"Alright Dearheart, here you go." Breanna handed the package to Faith. "Batteries and instructions are included."
Faith ripped open the bag and pulled out batteries, and a small box which she opened. "A white noise generator? Gran?"
"Think of it as a portable young witchling in a box."
"HUH?"
"Read the instructions. I think I'll make a cup of tea to take to bed."
Faith absently waved as she started to read the instructions. When she finished she burst out laughing. "Won't need it tonight."
"Need what baby?" Buffy saw a little electronic gizmo and had no idea what it was or did.
Faith explained to Buffy what it was and what it did. Buffy's mouth dropped open and the blush started at the tip of her toes and went all the way up to her non-dyed roots.
Breanna walked back in carrying a cup. She knew by the looks on the girls faces that they knew what it was now. Faith's grin was illuminescent and Buffy was working hard on composing herself.
"Night girls. See you in the morning. Dearheart, if you have to be at work by noon and Giles wants you both to train...I should get you up at nine so you can eat breakfast first. You could be at Giles by ten thirty, train for an hour, take separate showers of course and still be at work by noon."
Faith drew in a deep breath, "Okay Gran. Night night."
"Sleep well...sometime tonight." Breanna chuckled to herself as everyone headed upstairs to their respective rooms.
Author's Note: ~ indicates speaking through the Slayer Bond.
Buffy scooped Faith up into her arms in a flash and flew upstairs to Faith's room.
"Whoa, eager much B?"
Faith sultry voice played havoc on Buffy's nervous system. She paused and then went further down the hall to her room. Juggling Faith, she managed to open the door, swing around and drop her giggling bundle on the bed. She quickly closed her door and pounced on Faith.
"I'm sure you remember the rules baby," Buffy placed Faith's hands on the slats at the head of the bed. "Now then, for all the teasing and driving me crazy with need you have put me through all day...I have decided that you need to punished." She gave the squirming brunette the most evil grin.
*Oh fuck...she's gonna tease the shit outta me.* "B? Baby, you know I love ya right?" Faith had been worked up since those kisses in the bathroom and she needed Buffy now...and later... and...
Buffy grinned and leaned down to lick her girlfriend's dry lips. Faith knew where all the moisture had gone. She bucked her hips hard up into Buffy and twisting the slats to the right. Buffy realized she wasn't the only one having a hard time controling her needs. She could feel Faith on the edge.
"Your punishment is to leave your clothes on." Buffy started rubbing her fully clothed body up and down Faith's still clothed body.
"Need you...skin...taste," Faith came forward and latched onto Buffy shoulder which she proceeded to lick, kiss and nip, seemingly all at once.
Buffy had worked her way between her partner's legs. Smiling, she waited til she caught Faith's eye and then leaned down and licked slowly up the crotch seam of Faith's rapidly dampening leather pants.
"OH FUCK!" Faith shuddered and closed her eyes tightly.
Buffy slid up to Faith and kissed her deeply. Using a ghost like touch, she slid her fingers up the inside of her lover's pant legs.
Faith's breathing took on a similar cadence to that heard in LaMaze classes. When Buffy's thumb pushed the clit, Faith's back back arched and Buffy barely managed to hang on to the wild woman beneath her.
"Beeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee, ohfuckohfuckohfuck..." Faith collapsed back onto the bed bringing Buffy with her. The blonde Slayer could hear the the rapid heartbeat and feel the aftershocks through their bond. She knew Faith would recover quickly and then she would be the one screaming. *Better get my clothes off.* As she finished that thought she found herself flipped over and in such a position as to be under Faith's full control.
"Faith...my clothes...lemme..." Buffy stopped talking when Faith grinned at her while placing her hands on the non bent slats.
"Uh uh B...my turn to play." The accompanying Machiavellian grin told Buffy she was toast. She knew she had one chance. She caught Faith's eye and just stared at her and pouting. "You don't play fair B...not gonna work...not looking." Faith closed her eyes and started rubbing her tits over Buffy's. "Nice two gun salute there B." Faith ran her fingertips over rock hard little points. She leaned down and started sucking on the nipple through Buffy's blouse.
"Faith..."
"Little busy right now B," Faith tugged a little harder on the nipple in her mouth. Buffy followed into a seated position.
Grabbing Faith's ass, she tried to rub herself against her tormentor. Faith grinned and sat back on her haunches waiting for Buffy to lay back down and grip the slats again.
Buffy moaned, "Why'd ya stop?"
Faith just looked at Buffy's hands on her ass and looked to the slats.
"But Faith...I wanna touch you," Buffy whined.
Faith closed her eyes and began whistling "Pop goes the Weasel" and when she got to the 'POP' part of the it, she added a little hip movement and ground into her girlfriend's heat. Buffy gave in.
The blonde grabbed the slats and growled at her girlfriend, "Get back to work!"
Faith smiled and saluted before capturing Buffy's bottom lip between her teeth. She pulled back as Buffy tried to send her tongue in.
"Whazup girlfriend? Your 'hornymones' getting a little excited?"
"Faith," Buffy said in a threatening voice. "I'm gonna..."
"Hmmmm B, let's see...you teased the shit outta me, made me cream my leathers, and now that I want to return the loving...your threatening me. Thinking maybe I should go to my room and contemplate some unpronounceable 'ology' thingee." Faith made like she was going to get up.
Lightning fast Buffy's legs scissored around Faith's back in a locked grip. "You're not going anywhere Faith."
The brunette smirked at the blonde. *Wasn't really planning on going anywhere B.*
Buffy blew lightly in Faith's ear to get her attention, "If you fuck me...I'll fuck you," Buffy clit twitched at the mere mention of Faith touching her. Faith gulped and when Buffy offered her two fingers for sucking, well hey what's a girl supposed to do?
She wrapped her tongue around the fingers and sucked up and down and between and when she pulled her mouth off, it made a popping sound. Buffy shoved her hand down inside her pants and ran it through the gathering wetness. She offered her findings to Faith who gratefully accepted the gift. Once Faith was sure she had licked every molecule of Buffy's arousal off, she moved her fingers inside her pants and gave Buffy a taste of herself.
Both young women rolled onto their sides. Hands down each others pants, gazing into each others eyes, they came close to the edge and stopped. A soft gentle kiss ensued followed by declarations of love. Fingers started moving excruciatingly slow...only enough to build the flame running through their bodies...and stopped again.
The Slayers looked into each others eyes and spoke as one; "Now."
Well placed slick fingers began moving at a speed only a Slayer count take. Using the thumbs of their other hand, they each rubbed the other's clit through the leather crotch of the now soaked pants they were wearing.
"Oh fuck...yeah B...fuck me." Faith commanded.
"Faith...faster...please...gonna cummmmm...Faithhhhhhhhh!!!!"
"Right with ya B......!!!!!"
Faith reached for and rubbed the smooth patch and Buffy curled her fingers to do the same. Both girls came screaming again in minutes. Buffy pulled her fingers out and licked them clean.
"Uh...Faith," Buffy said looking at Faith's hand still down her pants inside of her.
With a glazed look in her eyes, Faith answered, "Kinda like where they are now and in the morning, you get a happy as soon as you open your eyes." Faith gave Buffy her patented silly-assed grin.
"You saying I don't get a happy if your fingers come out now?" Buffy licked her lips and brought Faith into her arms. She smiled down at her as the brunette snuggled against her.
Faith pulled her fingers out and cleaned them off before attacking Buffy's lips and taking no prisoners. They quickly divested each other of their clothes and climbed back into bed and into each others arms.
MONDAY MORNING 7:00 AM
Faith gently untangled herself from Buffy warm body and got out of bed. She grabbed her robe and put it on. She knew there was a chance Breanna may be up and didn't want to be caught running around naked. She quietly slipped downstairs and glided over to the closet which she opened. She pulled the ring box out of her inner pocket, "Soon B...soon." She replaced the box, turned around...and jumped out of her skin. Breanna quickly covered the startled girl's mouth.
"It's just me Dearheart." Breanna said softly, amazed that she could sneak up on a Slayer. *Her mind was not here, that's for sure.*
"Damn Gran, ya scared the shit outta me. Whatcha doing up so early?" Faith managed to get out while trying to calm her breathing back down.
"I get up early every day Dearheart. I'm sorry I startled you. What are you doing down here so early?"
"Just checking that the ring is still where I put it. B is the kind who goes looking. Would you kept this safe till New Year's Eve for me Gran?"
"Of course me darling." Breanna took the ring when Faith pulled it out again. She went back up to her room and hid it. When she came back downstairs, she found Faith in the kitchen making her a cup of tea.
"Go back to bed, Buffy and sleep...not necessarily in that order Dearheart." Breanna gave the dark Slayer a gentle nudge. "I'll come get ye at nine and breakfast will be ready soon after...so short shower."
"Ulp...yes Gran." Faith hugged the older woman and ran back upstairs. Sneaking back into Buffy's arms proved easy and Faith fell back asleep quickly.
NINE A.M.
KNOCK KNOCK
"HUH?" Faith felt Buffy roll on top of her and answering the door, well that would just have to wait.
"Morning Faith," Buffy leaned down and whispered in her ear, "About that morning happy?"
"Gimme a minute B," Faith grabbed her robe and answered the door.
"We're up Gran...sorta."
"I'll start breakfast for you both. Don't be too long girls."
"K, thanks Gran." Faith closed the door, turned and jumped onto her bed, landing half on Buffy. "Hmmm, bed sex...shower sex...bed sex...shower sex...decisons, decisions." Faith grinned at Buffy as she ran her fingers up the inside of damp legs. "God B, you smell good."
"We should take a shower and get dressed, Breanna will be making breaky and..."
Faith grabbed Buffy and carried her into the bathroom. Turning on the taps, Faith grabbed the sponge and started soaping it up to use on her girlfriend's delectable body. Taking their time, both girls were well washed, including their hair. Faith was sure the steam wasn't from the hot water, which was surprisingly still hot. Buffy couldn't take it any more, she shoved Faith against the wall of the shower and attacked her breasts. Sucking on a nipple caused Faith to moan and almost lose her balance. Buffy put one hand just under Faith's ass to hold her up while she paid lots of attention to the rest of the available skin.
"God, B...pleaseeeee." Faith begged for her release.
With a mischievious twinkle in her eyes, Buffy looked at Faith and asked; "Please what baby?"
"Make me cum B...I need you...NOW NOW NOW!"
Buffy stopped teasing the squirming brunette and slowly pushed three fingers up into a warm, wet channel. Slayer pussy muscles tried to pull them in faster. "Easy baby...I'm getting there."
Buffy leaned down and kissed Faith senseless before speeding up the motion of her well placed fingers. Buffy started riding Faith's leg in time with her fingers. It didn't take long for both young women to scream out their pleasure.
"Faith?"
"Yeah B?"
"We gotta redo these damn tiles, can you..."
Faith gently rubbed her hands all over Buffy removing the indents and then knowing Buffy would want her to help herself, she did.
They walked slowly back into the bedroom, picked out almost identical clothes, jeans, sneaks and sweatshirts. Faith put their workout clothes in another bag and then grabbed her work sweatshirt as well and put it in the backpack she intended to take to work later. As Faith opened the bedroom door she heard Breanna yell up; "Girls? Breakfast will be ready in five minutes."
"Coming Gran." Faith and Buffy's stomach growled in unison.
IN THE KITCHEN
*Of that I have no doubt Dearheart.* Breanna smirked and poured her girls a cup of coffee.
"MMMMM...Bacon and eggs...you're the best Gran." Faith licked her lips in anticipation. Buffy went over to the toaster and seeing bread already in it, pressed the lever down and waited for them to pop up.
"Bet you say that to anyone who feeds you Dearheart," Breanna chuckled because before Faith could answer that, her stomach rumbled extra loud.
"Damn Slayer metabolism!" Faith pouted until Buffy whispered softly; "That's not what you said last night baby."
"Wee one, do me a favor. Let me darling Faith have her breakfast before the 'games' begin."
Breanna placed plates full of scrambled eggs, bacon and home fries in front of the girls. Buffy brought over six slices of toast after buttering them. Faith jumped up, sat Breanna down and made her a cup of her special Irish Breakfast Tea. She sat back down and finished her breakfast.
"Ye don't have to make my tea every morning Dearheart, although I do appreciate it."
"You don't have to cook and feed us everyday....but ya do and we appreciate that Gran, don't we B?"
"Absolutely. You know Faith, I think we should keep her."
"You mean that B? If Gran wants to stay, it's okay with you?"
"She's family Faith. Do you think I don't see how happy you are having her here?"
"Gran? I know you have a house and family back in Ireland...but would you...I mean..."
"The house is actually in Brian's name now and will be yours one day Dearheart. Are you girls sure you want an old lady hanging around?"
"You're not old Gran, you'll probably outlive us all." Faith laughed, then sobered up instantly when she realized how that could be taken. "I mean..."
"I know what you mean me Darling. I would have to go home for a few days to pack more of my stuff." Breanna smiled and pulled Faith aside. "Dearheart would you help me with something in my room please?"
"Of course Gran." *I know she is up to something.* "B, I'll meet you at Giles shortly k?"
"It's too cold for your bike Faith, I'll just wait for you in the car. Where did you leave your work bag and out workout clothes bag?"
"On the floor under the kitchen table. I'll be down in a few minutes." Faith followed Breanna up to her room.
"Okay Gran what's on your mind?"
"You said the scenery around my home was the most beautiful you had seen. Did you mean it?"
"Yes, I never knew there were so many shades of green and blue... and it's magical. Oops sorry Gran, what are you trying to tell or ask me?"
"I thought mayhaps you would like to propose to 'Wee One' there. Bring all of your friends to spend the New Year at my home. Then I could bring back whatever I need and your friends could enjoy a trip to the Emerald Isle."
Faith eyes widened considerably. "You would let me do that?" Breanna opened her arms and Faith flew into them. "I saw the perfect place Gran...it's near one of the mills. There are these super large roses on one side of a small stream. The grass there is three shades of green and soft."
"Aye, I know the place well. Tis a very romantic spot. I could arrange a late night picnic for the two of you and keep the rest of your friends busy until you get back to house to make the announcement."
"I love you Gran." Faith hugged the woman.
"G'won with ye." Breanna loved making Faith happy. "Do ye think Angel would fly us all there and back?"
"No problem. Lemme call him right now." Faith pulled her cell out of her pocket and called Angel.
"Hello?"
"Hey Gramps, what's the chance of you lending us a jet to go back to Ireland?"
"When do you want it and why are you going back? Is Breanna alright?"
Faith handed the phone to Breanna. "I'll go tell B that we are all going back...for New Year's Eve. The rest is still a surprise."
"Scram Dearheart." Breanna took the phone and started explaining to Angel what was going on. He readily agreed. "We can all leave Wednesday night. Faith doesn't have to work New Eve day or the following. I'll call Red and Tara...wait, you should call Tara and invite them. I'll call Giles and Wes."
"Thank you Angel. I will be making several calls to set things up. Do ye think Buffy would like a Black Forest Cake like the one we had for me darling Faith's birthday?"
"I'm sure she will, as will the rest of us. If there's anything I can do to help, call me."
"I will. Would William be able to come? He can't walk in the sun, I know that."
"We would be leaving at night, so yes he could come. But he would need a room with no windows or cover them first."
"There be a small storage room off the artist studio. It's empty at the moment, so a bed could be placed there for him. There is one in the attic. If you and the Slayers could get it down."
"Consider it done Breanna. Is there a reason for us all going back?"
"Yes, but I am pledged to silence."
"Faith is planning something special for Buffy," Angel said knowingly.
"When isn't she?" Breanna laughed.
"Good point. Well I better call the Watchers before they get there to spar. We'll talk later."
"Aye, that we will."
IN SPIKE'S CRYPT
"Looks like we are all going to Ireland for the New Year. We will be leaving Wednesday night."
"Define all of us P...Angel."
"Faith, Buffy, Breanna, Giles, Wes, Willow, Tara, you and me."
"I'm included?"
"Yes, by special request of Breanna...not that we wouldn't have invited you ourselves."
"Thank you. Do we need to do anything?"
"Nope, she making arrangements for the party and something else that Faith is planning."
"It will involve Buffy."
"Of course."
Angel called Giles.
"Hello?"
"Hi Giles. It would seem that we are all going to Ireland for the New Year. Ask Wes if he's interested too, I'll wait. Breanna needed to know how many are going."
Giles asked Wes who replied enthusiastically, "A Celtic celebration? Count me in."
Giles relayed the message that both would be going.
"Great, the Slayers will be on their way for sparing soon Giles. Faith may ask you both, just say yes to her. No need to mention my call."
AT BUFFY'S HOUSE
Faith and Breanna came back downstairs sharing an identical silly grin.
"Okay, what are you two up now?" Buffy put her hands on her hips and pouted.
"Welllllll...." Faith grinned mysteriously.
"Faithhhhhhhhhh..." Buffy stomped her feet.
"Relax Wee One, do ye honestly think that Dearheart and I would do anything to hurt you?"
"Of course not Breanna, I just wanna know what's going on."
"Well B, all of us are going to Gran's house for the New Year."
Faith watched Buffy closely, waiting for her reaction.
"Really? I get to see your family's home? When do we leave, what do I need to pack?"
Faith laughed, she loved seeing Buffy excited. "Come on B, if we are gonna spar before I go to work, we better hurry. Coming Gran?"
"Yes dear." Breanna handed the girls their coats and followed them out. Buffy of course let Faith lock the door.
AT GILES HOUSE
Wes opened the door and let the women in. "Rupert is waiting for you girls downstairs. Come with me Breanna and I will make you a cup of tea for a change."
"Thank you Mr. Price."
"Call me Wesley or Wes please."
IN THE TRAINING ROOM
The Slayers changed into their workout clothes and joined Giles. Faith quickly asked Giles to join them for New Years.
"I'm honoured, thank you Faith. Who else is going, if I may ask?"
"Everyone G-Man...you, Wes, me and B of course, Gran, Angel, Spike, Tara and Willow. The property surrounding her house is beautiful...the part we saw when looking for Petey was at least."
RING RING
Giles answered his cell phone. "Hello? Ahhh, yes she is here." He handed the phone to Faith mouthing the word 'Brian'.
"Hi Pops, what's up?"
"Hello Faith, I wanted to tell you how proud I am of you for what you did for Mr Giles. The classes have been arranged. Do you have time to go see Professor Runninghorse today?"
"What time and where do I find him?"
"Well, he did ask if you were available for the interview about seven thirty this evening, in his office in the Science Building on Sunnydale University Campus."
"I'll be there, I promise Pops. What courses did you sign me up for and how long will they last?"
"He has your schedule and will explain everything. I didn't tell him about your 'gift', but I think you should."
"Do you trust him?"
"Yes, we went to medical school together. He was a foreign exchange student and lived with us for two years. He is a full blood Navajo Indian. If he believes that you really wish to learn, he may show you more than what you would ever learn in classes. I took the liberty of signing the young witch up for one of your classes as well."
"Which one?"
"The Ancient Art of Healing. It covers herbal therapy. Do ye think Willow would enjoy that?"
"Talk to G-Man for a few minutes and I will call her." Faith handed back Giles cell phone and went to her bag and pulled out hers. She called Willow.
RING RING
"Hello?" Tara mumbled half asleep.
"Hi Blondie, is Red awake?"
"Who's that Tara?" Willow hollered out of the bathroom.
"It's Faith and she wants to talk to you."
Willow took the phone, "Is something wrong Faith?"
"No, not at all. I need to ask a couple of questions."
"Go ahead."
"One...will you and Tara come to Ireland for the New Year celebration?"
"Breanna is going home so soon?"
"Only for the holiday and to pack. She agreed to stay with me and B...isn't that great?"
"Yes it is. Uhhh, you said two questions?"
"Oh yeah, Pops said he signed you up to take one class with me at University. It's called "The Ancient Art of Healing", are you interested Red?"
"Absolutely. Do you think he could get Tara in too...maybe?"
"Ask her if she wants to take it first Willow."
Willow covered the phone and explained to Tara. The young blonde woman agreed instantly.
"She said she would love to."
"K, hang on." Faith handed her phone to Buffy and pointed at Giles. He handed her the phone and she asked if he could get Tara into the same class.
"Who is Tara and does she want to learn?"
"She is Willow's girlfriend and a Wicca in her own right."
"The more the merrier then. I'll call Phillip and tell him to expect all three of you tonight. I have to go check on the kids I operated on yesterday. I'll call you tonight, allowing for the time difference, it should be around nine o'clock. Have a great day Faith. I love you and am so proud of you."
"Love you to Pops...laterz." Faith told Willow that Tara would be accepted along with the two of them, but they had an interview with the doctor at seven thirty. "Be at B's place by seven and we can go together."
"We'll be there. I'll see you at work. I'm an official volunteer now."
"Can I speak to Blondie then please?"
"Yes Faith..wh..what can I d..do for you?"
"Well Blondie, I was wondering if you and Giles would take Gran sightseeing today? She likes museums and I know you and G-Man do too."
"I would be h..happy to. But what about B..Buffy? What will she do today?"
"She said she was going grocery shopping. It seems we are almost out of food...again."
The witches laughed out loud. "I bet, feeding two Slayers can't be easy. "Tell her to take Wes along, he can help carry everything."
"Sounds like a plan. Thank you. G-Man is giving me the 'evil eye', I better go spar, we'll talk later k?"
"Okay, have fun Faith."
Buffy and Faith squared off against each other after stretching exercises were done. Faith was bouncing on the balls of her feet while Buffy waited for an opening. When it came, she brought Faith down...or thought she did until she realized Faith had twisted and send her down. She looked up into dancing eyes.
"Girls...none of that now. Sparing only please." Giles removed and cleaned his glasses.
Using the bond, Faith sent; ~Hey B, if we both try...maybe we can scare the shit outta G-Man. Ya with me?~
~Count me in. On the count of three...just yell BOO!~
~ONE~
~TWO~
~THREE~
~BOO!~
~BOO!~
Giles jumped out of his skin while the Slayers burst out laughing so hard they landed on their butts.
"Bloody Hell! What was that?" Giles looked disaprovingly at the still laughing Slayers.
Faith managed to still herself first, "What what...G-Man?"
Buffy snickered and turned away.
"You bloody well know what what Faith...and I would appreciate it if you never did that again."
"No way in hell I can give ma word on that G-Man. You should have seen the look on your face...it was funny as hell. Hey B?"
~Junior Limey is upstairs.~ Faith grinned.
~Faith, you are so bad.~
~And you're not?~ Faith raised one eyebrow.
~What do we say to him?~
~Just yell Wussley.~
Buffy giggled and nodded.
UPSTAIRS
Wesley set down both cups of tea. "How do you like living with two uhhhh adventuriously minded young ladies?"
"They certainly keep me young me at heart. And since me darling Faith took half a century off me...I can almost keep track of them...at times."
Wesley raised his tea cup to his lips and screamed; "AHHHHHH!!!"
"Mr Price? Are you alright?"
Faith and Buffy came flying upstairs and saw the look on Wesley's face.
~Yup...got em.~ Faith winked at Breanna, letting her know in no uncertain terms that she and Buffy had been responsible for the young Watchers uncharacteristic outburst.
Giles had by now, joined the group in the kitchen.
Both Slayers grinned like loons. Breanna blew out her breath and smiled at her girls.
"We need to see how far you can project your words, I'm sure Wesley and I can come up with the right testing procedures." It was the Watchers turn to grin at the look on the Slayers faces.
Both girls faces fell and they looked pretty worried.
"Shit B, I don't wanna play with these guys anymore...they give out too many detentions."
"Wait a minute...where are you going? You started this...it was your idea." Buffy protested, knowing she was going to be the one to pay.
"I gotta get to work B. Bye baby...I love you." Faith grabbed her bag and ran out the door. *I can change when I get there.*
"Coward!" Buffy yelled after her rapidly disappearing girlfriend.
Breanna calmly drank her tea. The antics of the Slayers never failed to amuse her, but she believed herself to be shockproof.
Wesley looked at Buffy; "I..AM...NOT...A...WUSSY!"
Giles grinned for a half second and cleaned his glasses.
"Now then Buffy, these new abilities you and Faith are discovering are not toys. They need to be controlled and refined. I suggest..." Giles realized that Buffy had walked away. "Buffy?"
"Not now Giles...give us time to figure out what we are doing and how we do it. Then, maybe we will discuss it. For now, I need Wes to help me with the grocery shopping."
RING RING
Giles answered his phone. "Hello?"
"Morning Mr. Giles. Is Breanna there a..and what are your plans for the day?"
"Yes she is, and not sure at the moment. Why?"
"Well Faith asked me to see if we could take Breanna to the museum today while Buffy gets food."
"I rather like that idea. Will Willow be joining us?"
"No, she is working as a volunteer at the Orphanage."
"Come on over, and we can leave together."
"See you soon."
Giles hung up and approached Breanna. "I say Bre, we have been invited to tour the museum with Tara today. Are you interested?"
"I would love to Rupert."
AT THE ORPHANAGE
Faith got off the bus and walked up to the front door. She knocked and was let in. Tossing her coat in the closet, she headed for the bathroom to get changed. When she came out a few minutes later, she was wearing a pair of black jeans and the sweatshirt supplied to her.
Willow arrived shortly afterwards and went straight to Chan and David. They were working on writing their English paper. The usual "What I Did For X-Mas" was not something either boy wanted to be doing. "Need some help guys?"
"Hi Willow, yeah sure. Pull up a chair." David pointed to one and Willow pushed it over to the table. She read Chan's paper first, then David's.
"Not bad guys, but you need to check your spelling a little better."
"We're not allowed to use 'SpellCheck'."
"Try a Dictionary."
Chan asked the age old question, "How do you find a word if you don't know how to spell it?"
Willow smiled and together they looked up the mispelled words.
Faith went to check on Kory after talking to Petey first. *Gotta remember to talk to the boss about Spike coming to see her on a regular basis in the evenings.*
All the kids were doing homework or reading quietly. It was a house rule for mornings.
AT THE GROCERY STORE
Buffy pulled into a parking spot close to the front door of grocery store.
"Grab a buggy Wes," Buffy pointed to them as she struggled to get one lose herself.
"Two buggies...why?"
"Two Slayers eat a lot of food Wes, and the gang is usually at my place for a least one meal almost every day."
Wesley realized that Buffy was right, the amount of food necessary to keep two Slayers, and several young people would probably feed a family of five for a month.
Buffy went immediately over to the meat department and grabbed a dozen T-Bone steaks, several eye of the round steaks, large packages of pork chops, six pounds of normal bacon, four packages of pemeal bacon, five pounds of hamberger, several roasts and two premade packs of veal parmesan with spagetti.
Buffy laughed at the look on the younger Watcher's face as he watched her grab meat. "This will only last about two weeks...maybe." Wesley went to the produce department followed by Buffy. "Faith isn't into vegee's too much so go easy here." *Oh shit! forgot to get Faith's credit card.* "Ummm...Wes?"
"Yes?"
"I need you to cover todays shopping until we see Faith. I forgot to get her card. Can you cover a couple hundred dollars...just til later today...I promise."
"Consider it done dear girl. What's next on that list in your head?"
"Dairy products. Milk, white and lots of chocolate. She loves it. You go get a couple pounds of butter, a large tub of margerine and four dozen eggs."
Buffy grabbed half a dozen two quart sized chocolate milk and two of white milk.
She noticed that Wes had grabbed pasta and sauces. He also made a 'goodie' run. Several bags of chips, cheesies and other munchies were loaded into his buggy. He had two cases of pop as well.
"Anything else?"
"I think we got enough...for a few days at least."
"Days! My lord, you have enough here for...for..." Wesley shut his mouth and shook his head.
The final total was two hundred and sixty five dollars even.
AT BUFFY'S HOUSE
Wes grabbed several bags and followed Buffy into the kitchen. After several trips, all the bags were in the kitchen. Buffy put most of the meat in the large freezer and the rest in the freezer part of the fridge. Wesley had put the produce into the crispers and on the bottom shelf of the fridge. The goodies were put into the cupboards.
"Thank you for your help Wes."
"Think nothing of it. Now how about some lunch? I could order a pizza if you'd like."
"Sounds good to me...no anchovies or fruit!"
"Pepperoni and mushroom?"
"Extra large...of course." Buffy stomach made itself known.
AT GILES HOME
KNOCK KNOCK
Breanna let Tara in and welcomed her with a hug which Tara returned happily.
"So tell me, how did you get stuck with 'Babysitting the Old Broad'"?
Tara couldn't even form words for several minutes. Finally she bit the bullet. "Breanna...I want to take you...it's...it's not babysitting. And you may be older than the rest of us, but you are not a "Broad". I enjoy your company. You are family to Faith and she is part of our family. So...would y...you like to go to the museum or some...somewhere else?"
"The museum sounds lovely dear. Thank you."
Giles held out Breanna's coat and smiled at the stuttering young Wicca. "Off we go...shall we?"
AT THE MUSEUM
The first thing they saw was a large poster advertising that the Treasures of King Tutankamen would be coming in two weeks.
"Mister Giles...look! Can we order tickets? You know Faith will love to see them when they get here and she will know what most of the stuff is."
"Bloody marvelous idea Tara." Both he and Breanna pulled out their credit cards.
"Rupert, please allow me. Let me set one day aside to spend with me darling Faith."
"As you wish Breanna." Giles put his wallet back and allowed Breanna to buy two tickets for the coming exhibit.
"Rupert my old friend," a swarthy man said as he came over to Giles.
"My god, Ismael...how are you dear boy?"
"I'm fine, and who might these lovely ladies be?"
Giles introduced Breanna and Tara.
Tara was looking in a display case and frowning. "Mister Giles?"
"Yes?"
"Look, they are the same as in that display at the jewelery store. And that one Faith said was wrong is wrong here too. Why?"
Ismael looked to the case and swore in an unrecognizable language. The manager came over immediately and opened the case. He removed the wrongly dated piece and closed the case. "This piece went missing for several days and now it reappears in the wrong place. I don't know what's going on, but I damn well mean to find out. We'll catch up later Rupert."
"Of course. If anything else appears wrong, please call me. I have a bad feeling about this."
Tara and Breanna stood off to the side and finally walked into another room full of ancient ship wreck articles. Tara looked thoughtful for a moment and Breanna gently tapped her on the shoulder. "Is something wrong Tara?"
"That pendant...it's...it's the same as a ring my mother used wear. She told me it was an old family heirloom."
"Are ye sure it's the same?"
"Yes, why?"
"Well dear, that design was made for the McCauly family over two hundred years ago. They used to be my closest neighbors when I was a young girl. Beatrice McCauly was my best friend in grade school. Ohhh, the trouble we got into." Breanna laughed.
"B...Beatrice was my great grandmothers name. According to my mother, there was some kind of scandal and she had to leave County Cork in disgrace."
"T'was no disgrace to her. A Spanish sailor forced himself on her and she became pregnant. Her father threw her out with nothing but the black and blue marks from the beating he gave her. I was about to be married at the time. My husband was also a sailor and I arranged for her to go to America. She could have a new start, where no one knew her or what happened. We set up the story that her husband died on the crossing. I never heard from her again."
"She had a baby girl and named her Maryann. She was my grandmother."
"I have the matching pendant put away in my home. I will give it to you when we arrive."
"That's not necessary Breanna."
"Yes it is. It belongs to you."
"What belongs to who?" Giles asked as he rejoined the ladies.
Breanna quickly explained everything and Giles eyebrows shot up.
"I dare say, you seem to have brought that lucky leprechan with you Bre."
"Indeed Rupert. Thanks to me darling Faith, I now have four beautiful, intelligent young ladies as part of my family." Looking at the now blushing Tara, "You tell that young witchling to treat you well or I will sic Dearheart on her."
"She does Breanna, we just need time to get used to being together again. I don't want to go back to what we had, I want to build a new relationship with Willow. One that has total honesty."
"Ye deserve nothing less."
"If I might ask?" Giles could sense guilt coming off of the young witch.
"You want to know the p..pr...price of my return?"
"It can wait, until you're ready."
Tara took a deep breath and filled Giles in on just what was offered and finally paid for her return.
"My lord! I understand Angel adding time, but for Faith to have offered her Slaying...something I know she loves doing. Something must have happened in Ireland. Faith and Willow are good friends now. I'm happy about that, of course...but I wonder what brought it about."
"I believe I can answer that Rupert."
"Do tell."
"It was Willow who got through to Faith. When Faith was in so much pain during the transformation, Willow made her remember her love for Buffy. That was the only thing that could have helped Faith to accept what was happening to her. Faith wanted desperately to get back to Buffy and would do anything to accomplish that. Her love for Buffy really was all the protection she really needed."
"It's ab...about time they realized they are better together th...than apart." Tara smiled. She had seen how the Slayers looked at each other, in the past, when the other wasn't looking.
AT THE ORPHANAGE 3 PM
Faith asked Al to help Chan with his math homework. She put Kory to bed for her afternoon nap and came back downstairs. Peter rushed over with a book.
Faith signed to Peter; "Give me a few minutes, I need to talk to the boss. I'll be right back k little dude?"
Peter nodded and went over to the couch to wait.
Faith knocked on the Directors door and waited to be told to come in.
"Ah Faith, what can I do for you?"
"Remember my friend Spike?"
"Yes, the one Kory adopted last night."
"Well, he would like to come over some evenings to see her. Would that be okay? It might be after I leave, but before she goes to bed. He uhhh...works days, so can only come at night."
"I would prefer that you be here for the first few visits. The other kids need to get used to seeing him around here."
"Okay, how about tomorrow night...after dinner. Say about seven o'clock?"
"That's fine with me. You have a lot of amazing friends Miss Winters."
"Yeah I do don't I?" Faith grinned and waved as she exited the office.
Anthony came over and asked her check on kids cleaning the kitchen.
"On it...hey T?"
"Hey what?"
"Smartass!"
"SWEAR JAR FAITH!" One of the kids yelled.
Faith dutifully put her dollar in and gave Anthony the evil eye.
"Uh, what was it you wanted to ask?" Anthony raised his hands in total surrender.
"Are we allowed to make personal calls while working?"
"Take your break and make your call."
"Thanks."
IN SPIKE'S CRYPT
RING RING
"Hello?"
"Hey Spike, you can come see Kory tomorrow night at seven. But the boss wants me here for your first few visits...just til the kids get used to seeing you."
"Thank you Faith. How is she today?"
"She's taking a nap right now. I took two pictures of her. She's wearing her new sneaks from G-Man and one of the pink outfits you bought her. I'll drop your copy off on the way home. Hey Spike, could you take the other one to G-Man for me?"
"Sure luv. Don't tell me you start University tonight?"
"Nope, but I do have to go see one of the Doctor's...well Red and Blondie and I have to go tonight."
"Bloody hell, the poor bastard.. Two witches and a Slayer...god help him." Spike laughed.
"How'd like to eat your food through a straw for the next few days?"
"Just saying is all. The three of you are a force to be reckoned with, when you want to be that is. But hey, three smart birds... he is the lucky one."
"It doesn't bother you that...that I am smart...sorta?"
"Hell no Slayer. I always knew that there was a lot more to you than you showed. If you tell anyone what I say next, I will deny it...understood?"
"Yeah."
"When I was alive, I loved learning...I was a poet...a bad one, but it was considered an intellectual pursuit and therefore acceptable in my time."
"Will you let me read some of your poems someday?"
"Told ya luv, I was a bad poet. Too mushy even for Victorian times."
"Please Spike? I promise not to tell anyone...not even B."
"I'll think about it pet. Now then, what time will you and Buffy be slaying? Where do I meet you both?"
"How about at Restfield...say ten thirty?"
"I'll be there pet. Don't forget my picture please."
"I won't Spike, see you in a few hours. Bye."
"Bye."
Faith then called Buffy. "Hi baby, I wanted to let you know what's happening. I will be dropping a picture off to Spike on the way home, so I will be a few minutes late. Red, Blondie and I have an appointment at the University tonight at seven thirty, so I asked them to stop by at seven. Is that okay?"
"Of course it is Faith. You can invite anyone you like, whenever you like...it's your home too remember? What picture?"
"Thanks B. A picture of Kory."
"Of course. He cares about a little kid...that still floors me."
"You're willing to get to know the real me...give him the same benefit of the doubt."
"He has been rather well behaved lately. Okay Faith, I trust you."
"Luv ya B, I have to get back to work. See you around six, tell Gran."
"Luv you too Faith. What do you want for dinner?"
Faith sent the picture of herself between Buffy's legs, her lips were dripping with Buffy's desire.
"Oh god...Faithhhhh..." Buffy squeezed her legs tightly. *Shit, gonna need a long cold shower.*
Faith grinned, she knew what result she would get and was very pleased with herself.
Buffy sent the cold shower picture and Faith yelped. "ARGHHH, not fair B!"
"And getting me wet and not doing anything about it is?"
Faith just knew that Buffy was pouting. "AW crapppp...I'm sorry B, honest. After patrol, I'll show you just how sorry I am."
"Promise?"
"Count on it B. See at dinner. Bye."
"Bye."
Faith went over to the 'Swear Jar' and put her dollar in. Chan and David laughed. "But Faith, we didn't hear you swear."
"Doesn't matter, I did and I paid. So did you finish your homework?"
"Yes. I think Al is having trouble with his History paper."
"I'll go check on him, thanks. Would you play a game with Petey while I go help Al?"
"Sure thing. He likes the Fighting Ninja 5."
"Thanks guys." Faith walked into the study room looking for Al.
When she found him, she saw him staring off into space, chewing on his pen.
"Hey Al."
"AAAAAAAA...Faith?"
"Easy there guy. Didn't mean to scare the shit outta ya." *Nuts, gotta remember to put another dollar in that damn jar. Can I swear in head without paying?* "I heard you were having problems with a paper. I came to see if I could help."
"S'Okay Faith. Do you recognize this cross?" He showed her a picture of an old gold coin.
Faith grinned. It was identical to the ones she had in her treasure chest. "Yes Al. That cross stands for the "Holy Inquisition"." She pulled out her cell and called Buffy again. "Hi B, can you do me a favor?"
"Sure...what?"
"Bring a few coins from the chest in the basement over here. Al needs them for a report he's working on."
"Be there soon baby."
"You have gold coins?" Al looked surprised.
"Yeah, I uhhhhh...have a share in some old pirate booty. Do you know what the Inquisition was all about?"
"Religious crap. Pray to my god or die horribly." He handed Faith a quarter. She shook her head and smiled.
"You didn't put it that way in your report did you?"
"No, but have you seen some of the torture devices the Spanish, English and French used? It's barbaric...inhuman...digusting."
"Yes it was. Do you know where most of Spains gold came from?"
"The new world. South America and Central America. Look what they did to the Indians...wipped them out almost. They even had a name for it..."Religious conversation of the native people", but it was really only "GOLD FEVER!" Religion and money...is that really what the world is about Faith?"
"To some people...yes. Belief is a strange thing Al. And although money doesn't buy happiness, it sure makes day to day living a whole lot easier."
Al loved that Faith didn't talk down to him. "Thanks Faith. Can I really use one coin for my project?"
"Yup, B should be here soon."
Anthony stuck his head in, "Faith, your friend Buffy is here."
"Send her over her T."
"K."
Buffy walked in and handed Al three coins. Two were gold and had the Spanish Cross on them and the other was silver and had the French Cross on it. "Will these do?"
"You're the best B, thanks."
Al pulled out a magnifying glass and checked out each coin carefully. One gold one had the date 1478, the other 1543. The silver one needed to be cleaned properly, but he could still see the first two digits on the coin were 16--. "I will get these back to you as soon as I can Faith. Thank you for bringing them Buffy."
"You're welcome Al. Shouldn't you be getting ready for your date?"
"Oh shit! What time is it?"
Faith stuck her hand out and just looked at him, she knew she couldn't let him get away with it twice. Al handed over a quarter and asked what punishment he would receive.
"Nothing...this time. Now go get ready."
"Yes M'am." Al picked up his books, report and the coins and disappeared quickly.
Buffy pulled Faith over to the corner and made sure no one was looking before kissing her girlfriend properly.
"MMMM, B...." Faith's legs turned to rubber.
"Just a little taste of what's to come later tonight baby." She bounced around the flustered brunette girl.
"I promise B, I won't be the only one cumming." She gave Buffy her patented cocky grin.
"Did you and junior Peep Dude get the shopping done okay? You forgot to take my credit card."
"I realized that as soon as we got inside the store. Uh, we owe Wes two hundred and sixty five dollars."
"Here B, take my card to a bank machine and take out three hundred dollars. Then you can pay Wes back. The rest I want you to give to to Gran. If you have time, could you take her to that Tea Specialty Shop? Make sure she gets her special Irish Breakfast Tea, and lots of that English one G-Man likes."
"Consider it done Faith." Buffy kissed Faith again, softly this time. Both girls moaned into it. They felt Willow's 'cool it' spell take effect and looked for the witch.
"Sorry guys, but Petey really wants Faith to read to him and Tif wants to talk to Buffy."
"S'okay Red. Let's go."
Buffy walked over to Tiffany and asked what was going on.
"Al won dinner for for at a fancy restaurant...and we wanted to know if you and Faith would come with us? It's next Monday."
"Are you sure you don't want some of your friends to go with you?"
"Nope, Al and I agreed. So do you want to?"
"I'd love it but let me go ask Faith, be right back."
Buffy found Faith signing a book to Petey. The little boy grinned, "Hi Bu...fyyy."
"Hi sweetheart, can I borrow Faith for a minute." She waited for Faith to sign her request to Petey. He smiled and nodded.
"What's the what B?"
"Al won some kind of contest and Tiffany invited us to join them for dinner at some fancy restaurant next Monday. I asked her if she was sure about inviting us and she said that she and Al agreed. So baby...wanna go with the 'young couple'?"
"Sure B, sounds like fun. Ummmm..."
"What?"
"Well B, there is this kid...I swear if you look up the word 'clutz' his picture would be there, and his secret wish is to learn to play darts..."
"Are you nuts Faith! Clutzy kid...little pointy objects...not a good combination."
"It's his dream B. With our Slayer power, darts is a cinch. But I have to go get Kory, check homework, then make sure the older kids start making dinner...pleasssseeeee B?" Faith gave her the the puppy-dog eyes and naturally Buffy caved.
"I must be nuts but alright Faith, I'll try...no promises."
Willow had caught the last part of the conversation, "Faith, let me go get Kory while you start checking homework."
"K, thanks Red." Faith stuck the first two fingers of each hand in her mouth and blew. All the kids stopped what they were doing and looked at her. "Listen guys, grade school kids bring your homework to me now...junior high take it to Anthony...high school, I'll get to you soon. Who's got kitchen duty tonight?"
"I do," an older boy with blue hair said.
"I do," Chan answered.
"Get started then, I'll be in to check on you guys shortly." Ten kids brought over papers and Faith went through all of them in just under thirty minutes. She rushed out to the kitchen and found everything under control. "Sorry I took so long guys, how's it going?"
"Fine Faith, don't worry...we didn't blow anything up...yet." The blue haired kid grinned as he checked on the potatoes in the large bubbling pot in front of him.
UPSTAIRS
Willow opened the door to Kory's room and looked in. "Spikey?"
The half asleep little girl asked.
"Nope, sorry sweetie. It's just me...Willow."
"Want Spikey."
"Let's go downstairs and we can call him." Willow reached out slowly and picked up the little cutie. Once they were in the common room, Willow grabbed her cell and called Spike.
"Hello?"
"Someone wants to talk to 'Spikey'."
"Put her on luv."
"Spikey!" The little girl was bouncing up and down.
"Hi Princess, how are you today?"
"Spikey come?"
"I will tomorrow night, I promise."
Kory scrunched up her little face and pouted. Willow rubbed her back soothingly.
Faith walked up to Willow and tapped her on the shoulder. "What's the what Red?"
"She wanted to talk to Spike. He told her was coming tomorrow... she wants him here now."
"The boss wants me here for his first few visits and I can't tonight. We have that appointment with the Professor. Buffy will probably be pissed as it is. I mean tomorrow I get off at five, go home for dinner and then pick up Spike and come back here for a hour or so."
Buffy had heard that last part. "Not pissed Faith, not happy... but not pissed. She is good for him...he's like a different person around her. I think I can give up a bit of Faith time for that...but not alot and not every night."
"You're the best B," Faith sent a very passionate kiss through their bond. Buffy drew in a sharp breath and sighed deeply.
Willow raised her hands, but was stopped by Faith. "We're okay Red...for now, right B?"
"For now."
Kory handed Faith the phone, "Yo Spike."
"Slayer, I have an idea..."
"Do tell."
"Have Buffy bring me a little kids book. I can read it over the phone to her. It's not like being there...but maybe it will help."
Faith whispered so only an Slayer or Vampire could hear; "Mushball."
Spike answered; "Piss off pet."
Faith laughed and relayed Spike's request to Buffy. She agreed and Willow found two copies of the same Curious George book. She took one and handed it Willow and kept the other. "Gimme about ten to fifteen minutes to get to Spike's crypt and then I'll get him to call you."
Willow told Kory that Spike would call back in a few minutes.
"Spikey! wuv Spikey."
Spike had heard the little girl's declaration and he smiled. *Cor the bloody kid really does like me.* "Tell her...nevermind, I'll call back when Buffy gets here. Thank Faith for letting me do this. Bye."
"Bye." Willow hung up and re-explained that he would call back in a few minutes.
Faith hollered out; "High school homework...chop chop, dinner is almost ready."
Six teens came over and stood in line. Tiffany and Al were at the end of the line and were holding hands.
Faith made corrections in some Algebra and sent one kid to Willow for help in Chemistry.
15 MINUTES LATER
Buffy walked into Spike's crypt and handed him the yellow hard cover book. "You really like that munchkin huh Spike or should I say Spikey."
Spike growled, "Not from you luv. That's her name for me. She is a special kid Buffy. Tell me you don't care about her."
"She is sweet, all those kids are pretty cool. You should see Faith in action. Checking homework, getting dinner started, helping any kid that needs it. Kinda makes me tired just watching her."
"I hope you're not getting jealous of the time she spends with those kids."
"No, I'm not Spike. They need her, I know that. I just don't know what to do with myself while she is there. She is being useful, and it makes her happy..."
"Well since she is going to start taking night classes at the University...why don't you take a few during the day."
"What would I take?"
"Don't know pet...what interests you?"
"I'll have to think about it, thanks for the idea Spike but you better call your little girlfriend now before she goes nuts on Willow and Faith."
"Right," Spike called Willow as he put his hand out for the book.
"Hi Spike, I'm going to put the phone on speaker."
"Me too luv. Hi Princess. Did you miss me?"
"Spikey! Spikey!" The little girl clapped her hands and danced around in a circle.
"Are you ready?"
Willow sat her down with the book and Spike began reading. The redhead turned the pages as he did so.
Faith looked over and smiled as she heard Spike reading Curious George to Kory. She rounded the rest of the kids and sent them to get cleaned up for supper. When she got back, Spike was just finishing. "Did you like that Princess?"
"Spikey...nice man."
Spike's chest inflated with pride. Buffy gave him the thumbs up sign as waved goodbye. "Tell Faith, I'll see her at home."
"K Slayer."
"Sorry Spike, but Kory has to have her dinner now. I'll see you in a few minutes."
"Bye Princess, I will see you tomorrow night. See you soon Faith and thanks again."
"No problem. Bye Spike."
"Bye."
Faith carried Kory over to the high chair where the female worker, who would be leaving, was waiting. "See you all tomorrow guys."
"Bye Faith," was chorused out in a mid-level yell.
"Hey Red, can you drop me at Spike's?"
"Sure, why?"
Faith pulled out the two snapshots she had taken earlier and showed them to Willow. "One is for Spike since he bought the outfit and the other is for G-Man since he bought the sneakers."
"It's funny how one tiny little girl can change a big bag vampire and an English bookworm. I saw his face when he was giving her the horsey ride...part in awe and part terrified."
"Yeah Red, well some guys are clueless when it comes to babies and they scare the hell outta them." Faith immediately fished for a dollar and put it in the swear jar on her way out.
"Guess that's because they aren't too far removed from that stage of life themselves, for the most part."
Faith and Willow laughed together.
Willow waited in the car while Faith ran over to Spike's crypt. She went in and found him on the couch watching tv and munching on a pizza.
"Here ya go Spike. Your copy and Giles'."
"As soon as the sun goes down, I'll deliver it."
"Thanks Spike...wish me luck tonight."
"Bloody hell Slayer, you don't need luck...you got brains. Now you better get going cause I know one slayer that doesn't like to be kept waiting."
"Good point, see you later for patrol right?"
"I'll be there. Oh Faith?"
"Yeah?"
"Thanks for inviting me to join everyone at Bre's house for the New Year."
"You're family Spike, nuff said. Laterz."
As Faith came back to the car, she could hear Willow talking to Buffy on the phone. "But Will..."
"Relax Buffy, we'll be there soon. I see her now." Willow handed the phone to Faith as she got in.
"Hey baby, I'll be home in a few. I love you."
"Love you too baby. Breanna says and I quote; "Dearheart...get your ass home, dinner will be ready in five minutes"."
"Yes M'am. B, we need to co-ordinate getting everyone to Ireland and find out where everyone is going to be staying."
"I think Breanna has it all worked out. We'll talk after dinner."
"Not for long B, my appointment at the University is for seven thirty. We can talk after that and before patrolling okay?"
"Sounds good to me. I can feel you." Buffy smiled and hugged herself.
"Yeah B, I feel you too. We just turned onto your street."
Willow dropped Faith off telling her she would be back at seven with Tara.
"K Red, thanks."
Faith walked into the house and was immediately pulled into warm welcoming arms.
Breanna came out; "Dinner is served girls. Eat now...play later."
Breanna smiled, she knew that line never failed to make 'her girls' grin.
Buffy and Faith walked hand in hand into the kitchen.
"MMMMM...roast, potatoes, gravy...and rabbit food." Faith licked her lips.
"Even big bag Slayers need their vegetables Dearheart. You will eat everything or no dessert."
"Yes Gran," Faith pouted for a minute. "What's for dessert?"
"I made a four deep dish Bumbleberry pies. I wanted to give one to Rupert and Wesley, one to the witches, one to the vamps and one for us."
"Gran rules!" Faith said as she came over and hugged the busy woman.
"G'won with ya. How about setting the table and Wee One can help me carry in dinner?"
"Consider it done Gran." Faith grabbed plates and silverware and carried them out to the dining table.
Buffy picked up plate that the roast was on and carried it in to the dining room followed by Breanna bringing the bowl of mashed potatoes and the bowl of carrots.
Once everything had their plates filled, Faith looked at Buffy; "What a minute B...Gran would you say grace?"
Buffy stared at her girlfriend and Breanna nodded.
"What B? Against the house rules or something?"
"No, not at all Faith...just never heard you ask."
Both Slayers put their hands in the universal praying position as Breanna softly spoke words of thanks for the meal they were about to enjoy.
"AMEN," was repeated by all.
"Thanks Gran. I never heard prayers about food before. And since I love food...kinda figured it was time."
When the meal was finished, Breanna asked Faith to bring the dishes and put them into the dishwasher while she brought out their dessert. When Faith saw the two inch deep pie her mouth started watering. *Good thing I've got Slayer metabolism, or I would weigh two hundred pounds by the end of the month.*
Breanna cut the pie into quarters. Buffy shook her head and asked that her piece be cut into two slices and that the other slice be given to Faith. "That way she can have the last piece when we get back from patrol later."
"Thanks B, you're the best." Faith dug right in and made short work of her larger piece and then made the smaller one disappear just as quick.
*Where does she put it all?* Buffy was always amazed at the amount of food Faith could put away without gaining any weight. She grabbed the dessert dishes and put them in the dishwasher and started the cycle. "Faith?"
Faith came into the kitchen and Buffy handed her a cup and an English Breakfast tea bag. Faith smiled and made Breanna a cup of tea which she brought back to her. "Here ya go Gran."
"Thank you Dearheart. Wee One?"
Buffy had finally seen the futility of getting Breanna to call her by another nickname. "Yes Breanna?"
"When I was out today, I saw a fine Tea Shop...would you...?"
"As soon as Faith, Willow and Tara leave for their appointment, we'll go to that shop. I know Giles and probably Wes too, are making a dent in your special teas."
"So Gran, you wanna explain how you're gonna house all my friends for the New Year celebration?"
"Simple Dearheart. The vamps will have a room in the basement, you and Buffy will have the room you shared with Willow, the one down the hall can be used by the witches, and Rupert and Wesley can use Brian's room."
"Are you sure you're up to having all of us in your house? We are kinda of a rowdy bunch."
"Looking forward to it Dearheart. I miss the laughter and noise of young people. I would ask ye why the young man and his girlfriend weren't included?"
"Anya and XanMan? Shit! Got more room somewhere Gran?" Faith felt bad about accidently excluding them.
"Well since my worthless grandson is now in jail...they could use his room."
"What did the asshole do this time?" Faith wanted to know.
"Bar fight. He will be serving thirty days this time." Breanna's dislike of her grandson was apparent.
DING DONG
"That's Red and Blondie, I'll get it." Faith answered the door.
"Hi Breanna," Willow and Tara said together.
"B?"
"Yeah baby?"
"Can you call and invite Xan and Anya? We have to go now."
"Sure, hurry back...I miss you already." Buffy pulled her gorgeous lover into her arms and gave her a right proper kiss that would have melted both north and south poles.
Tara leaned into Willow and kissed her softly. Willow returned the kiss and as they were starting to get into it, Breanna tapped the couples on their shoulders. "Appointment now...play later."
"Yes Gran."
"Yes M'am."
"Yes M'am."
"Y...yes M'am."
The witches and dark haired slayer left, giggling like school kids. "Y...You're l...lucky to have her for a gr..grandmother Faith."
"No shit Blondie. Let's not keep the Doctor waiting." Willow got into the driver's seat, Tara sat up front and Faith got into the back.
AT SPIKE'S CRYPT
Spike was waiting patiently for the sun to go down. As soon as it did, he put his precious cargo into a manila envelope and headed off to the Watchers house.
KNOCK KNOCK
Wesley answered the door and was surprised to see Spike standing there.
"Do come in Spike," Giles said as he came out of the kitchen.
"I have something for you from Faith." He handed the older Brit the envelope.
Giles reached out cautiously and opened it. When he pulled out the picture, he smiled. "She is adorable Spike."
"Who is that?" Wes asked as he looked at picture.
"Her name is Kory and she is...Spike's adopted daughter." Giles smiled at the embarrassed vampire.
"WHAT!" Wesley dropped his glasses.
"She's one of the rugrats where Faith works. She...she likes me."
"Translation...Kory did to him what Petey did to Faith. Got under his skin in about the same length of time too."
"Watcher?"
"Yes Spike."
"If I give you some money...would you set up a college fund for her. I mean if she wants to go when she is older. School isn't cheap now and when she is old enough..."
"I'd be happy to Spike. Should I ask where the money will be coming from?"
"I had an inheritance from me mom. It's in the Bank of England. It was a few thousand pounds...then. I think the witch would be able to transfer some or all of it as needed." Spike wrote down a few words and handed it to Giles. "That's the password for the account."
Giles looked at the paper and back at the blond vampire.
"Not one bloody word Watcher...or I will rip your sodding tongue out. He was me great great uncle."
Giles eyebrows shot up at that and he folded the paper and put it into his wallet.
"It would be worth a bloody fortune now then Spike. You are talking about the turn of the twentieth century are you not?" Wesley questioned.
"Yes, and when I was turned...well I found other ways of surviving. Thought that I might one day need legal money...turns out I was right. So will you ask Red nicely to help set this all up?"
"Of course I will Spike."
AT THE UNIVERSITY
Faith pulled into the parking lot. The three women got out and entered the Science Building. Faith looked for the right room and then knocked.
"Come in."
When they entered, they saw a well tanned man with a ponytail to his waist. "There is great power around all three of you." He pointed to three chairs and the girls sat down. He looked at the brunette; "You must be Faith...and red hair, Willow and that means you would be Tara."
"You know Prof...I might have said 'good guess', but I know Pop described Willow and myself."
"True," the older man smiled. "Now then, why do you want to take my classes?"
Faith spoke up first. "I need the knowledge...or at least a way to understand the knowledge I have." She wasn't ready to tell him about her healing ability just yet.
Willow pressed her lips together and swallowed hard. "I wanted to increase my...'herbal' knowledge."
"M...me too s..sir." Tara added quietly.
The Professor grabbed a skeleton and showed it to Faith. "You see the blockage here in the small intestine?"
"Yes."
"How would you 'fix' this problem?"
*Surgery...no, too obvious. Drugs...no, also too obvious, radiation...no, not sure...just no. Eureka!* Faith looked at Willow and grinned.
"I saw four possibilities run through your head. Please explain each in order and what your solution was." *This one is quick to think...we shall see if her thinking is medically inclined or not.*
"Uhhh, surgery and drugs...no cause they are too obvious. Radiation scares the shit outta me. So maybe sound waves to break up the blockage."
"Excellent and how do you know that would work?" *She is a progressively logical thinker. She should do well.*
"Well it worked in an artery in the heart, so why not there too?" Faith jerked her head around and looked out the window. Her Slayer sense was going nuts. "Stay here, I'll be right back."
Faith jumped out the window and was off and running.
Willow immediately tried to get out the window to follow Faith but was held back by Tara. "Baby let me go, she may need help."
"B..be careful W..Willow."
"I will be believe me." Willow ran in the direction she saw Faith run. As she came near the parking lot, she heard the sounds of a fight. Seeing Faith dust two vampires and being knocked around by a very large, ugly demon, Willow created and threw a fireball.
"Faith...Duck!"
Faith could feel the heat and ducked when told to. The fireball nailed the demon in the throat and Faith kicked hard enough to decapitate the beast.
"ARGHHHH! FAITH HELPPPPPP!" Willow screamed out in pain.
Faith turned around and ran to help Willow. A smaller, but obviously very strong demon had Willow by the throat. He had clawed across the young witch's abdomen.
"Come and get me ya ugly fuck," Faith challenged.
The demon dropped the weakened Willow and came at Faith.
Smashing it in the face didn't even faze it. Faith went flying into a car and was momentarily stunned when she tried to kick it and was thrown.
By now Tara and the Professor had come outside. Tara went over to her girlfriend's side. The Professor was stunned at seeing the damage caused to the young redhead and also by seeing Faith fight the demon.
"She's a slayer?"
"Yes," a fevered and in pain Willow answered.
"TARA...get B on the phone, tell her to get her gorgeous ass here. I can chase the critter or help Red, and helping Red is more important." Faith came over and sat down next to her bleeding friend. Turning on her healing power was obvious as her eyes and the sliver started to glow a bright silver color. "Red, I need to get the poison out first, then I will heal the claw marks." Faith concentrated and a purple slimey goop came out of the wounds. "Tara, come here. Give Red as much of your strength as you can. It will take time to heal her, there is a lot of damage. Professor, come here."
He leaned down and saw some of the damage.
"Can I safely take this damaged piece of intestine out and rejoin the rest or should I keep trying to fix it?"
Pulling out two pair of thin surgical gloves, he put one pair on and handed the other to Faith. He opened a small kit and pulled out a scapel. "I will cut the damaged parts out and you rejoin them."
Tara called Buffy.
"Hello?"
"Buffy! Come to the university. Wi...Wllow is h...hurt and Faith couldn't chase the demon and h...heal her at the same time."
"On my way...where exactly are you?"
"The south visitor parking lot...hurry p...please...and bring Faith's s..sword."
10 MINUTES LATER
Buffy pulled in and saw her friends. Tara ran over and almost collasped into the smaller girl's arms.
"She will be fine Tara, Faith is the best healer you could hope to find."
"I know...but..."
"B, the critter ran off into the trees about ten minutes ago, I don't know if you can find it now. Be careful baby, it's a lot stronger than it looks."
"So am I Faith. Take care of Wil and I'll be back soon." She set down the box holding Faith's special sword. Buffy, stake in one hand and a short sword in the other, ran into the trees. Her Slayer sense went nuts and she saw the demon skinning a fox and eating the pieces. She growled and went at it.
The demon looked up from his less than satifactory meal and decided the little blond would be a better choice. Buffy stood her ground and swung the sword, unfortunately it didn't completely cut the head off. The demon swung blindly and connected with Buffy's nose, which exploded in blood.
"OW! You bastard."
IN THE PARKING LOT
Faith blinked and howled. "B.....!"
"Which direction Slayer?" Spike asked as he ran over to the little group.
The Professor pointed to the trees and Spike took off faster than anyone could see.
Faith spoke softly to the injured redhead. "Red, I need to touch the wounds to heal them and it will probably hurt like a mother."
"Do what you have to Faith, I trust you."
"Faith please...h..help her. She's in pain."
"If you have any more juice to give her...do so."
Placing her hands as gently as possible, Faith could see the damage and began joining the two neatly cut ends. The Professor had done a fine job of removing the damaged area after giving the redhead a local.
Willow mumbled, and moaned in pain. Faith reached around, opened the box and grabbed her sword to recharge. She dropped the sword and replaced her hand on the now fading wounds.
IN THE TREES
Spike came running to Buffy's aid. He saw the Slayer on the ground holding her nose as blood seeped through her fingers.
"You bloody wanker...die!" Spike swung his sword and split the critter in two. He leaned down and carefully picked up the smaller Slayer and carried her back to Faith. "Got another one that needs your special skills luv."
Faith finished healing Willow just as she came back to full consciousness. "Faith?"
"Yeah Red, I'm here. How do you feel?"
"Fine, thanks to you."
"Buffy! You're hurt. Lemme at that fucking demon." Faith was livid.
"It's dead Faith, just fix her broken nose." Spike said.
Faith stood up and almost collapsed. Tara reached for the sword and was stopped by Willow. "Don't touch it baby, it's hers and would hurt anyone not blood family."
Spike pushed the sword with his boot towards Faith who leaned down and picked it up. For a full minute she held it and let the power flow through her. She put it back into the box and went to Buffy. "Okay B, this is gonna hurt...but it's necessary." "I doe, just hurbby pleabe."
Faith gently wipped off the blood and saw the break. She placed her fingers lightly over the broken bone and was pleased to see it become whole again. Taking a deep breath, she sat back for a minute.
Tara hugged her from behind after Willow stood up and proclaimed herself to be fine. "Thank you F..Faith."
"No problem Blondie, just wish I could have killed the fucker that did it."
"Thanks from me too Faith," Buffy stood up and held out her hand. Faith took it and stood up too.
"Spike, did you recognize what kind of critter it was?"
"No, sorry...wasn't interested in talking to it and I have never seen one like it before. I did notice something, be right back."
Spike ran back to the woods and grabbed the broken necklace from the two halves of the demon which began to smoke and then it disappeared entirely.
"Looks Egyptian to me." He handed it to Faith.
"It is. It's from the cult that worships Bastet, the cat goddess. Something weird is going on here. A few weird things, all connected to this cult. G-Man should see this. Spike, would you escort Tara, Willow and B home. I'll go see G-Man and talk to him."
"I'm going with you Faith," Buffy insisted.
"Professor...we really need you to forget everything you have seen and heard tonight. I understand if you don't want me in your classes, but at least let Red and Blondie take the herbal course thingee please."
"Forget is asking too much, but I won't repeat it. And I would be happy to have all three of you in my classes. I still can't believe it...you two are Slayers, you two are witches and what are you?" He asked looking at Spike.
Spike looked to Faith, "Faith?"
Faith nodded.
Spike put on his game face and the Professor stepped back real quick. "I'm a vampire and these people are my friends."
"Brian was right...a truly amazing group of people. Ladies, classes start in two weeks." He handed the girls their schedules.
"That went well," Faith cracked. "Spike, how did you know to come here?"
"Breanna called and asked me to check on 'her girls'. Please call her, she will be worried sick about you guys."
Faith pulled her cell out and called Breanna.
AT BUFFY'S HOUSE
Giles was sitting with a worried Breanna. "You know they can take care of themselves Bre. They will be fine, please don't worry."
"Tell me Rupert...are ye not worried about them?"
"Not at all," Giles answered.
"Ye lie like a rug." Breanna stared at the Watcher.
"Well...yes, alright I am worried."
RING RING
Breanna rushed to answer the phone.
"Hello? Dearheart?...Wee One?"
"Hi Gran, we're okay for now. B and I have to go see G-Man and then we will be coming home. Spike is bringing Red and Blondie there now. Make sure Red takes it easy Gran, she was hurt badly earlier. Do you have any herbal tea...like camo something?"
"Yes I do, and Rupert is here. So come home all of you."
"K, Gran. See you soon."
"Bye Dearheart. She said they are fine, but the young witchling was hurt. And from the crack in her voice, I'm thinking that Buffy may have been hurt as well."
"Bloody hell! How bad?"
"They will be here soon and we shall see."
20 MINUTES LATER
The whole Scoobie gang came in. Giles rushed to see Buffy and Breanna checked on Willow first then hugged her obviously exhausted grandaughter.
"William, there be fresh chocolate chip cookies in the kitchen, bring out the plate and help yourself."
"Thanks Bre."
DING DONG
"Who could that be," Spike went to answer the door.
"It should be Xander and Anya. I asked them to come over so you could invite them to share New Year with us." Buffy smiled but was worried at seeing the exhaustion on her girlfriend's face. Buffy let her friends in. Faith came over immediately and asked them to join them on their trip back to the Emerald Isle.
"You mean it Faith? You want us to come too?" Xander asked in a disbelieving voice.
"Of course Xan, Gran said I could invite all my friends. So are ya interested?"
"Absolutely Faith. I've never been anywhere outside of Sunnydale."
"You're pretty quiet Anya, is something wrong?" Faith wondered out loud.
"Not at all Faith. Thank you for inviting us. I haven't been to Ireland in over a century. It is a beautiful country."
"Over a century?" Breanna questioned.
"I used to be a Vengence Demon...for twelve hundred years. There were a lot of pissed off women in County Cork at the turn of the century. The men left to go to sea and had women in every port. I was kept pretty busy back then. But I did see some very beautiful scenery."
Breanna took in all that was said before smiling. "What a truly amazing group this is." >Breanna walked over to Faith and brought her into her arms for a well deserved hug. "Now Dearheart, you sit down and take it easy for awhile...that goes for you too Witchling. William, would ye make a couple of sandwiches for me darling Faith. I bet she is starved after all she has done tonight."
"Not really hungry Gran, just tired." Buffy sat her girlfriend down on the couch and kissed her cheek. "I'm so proud of you baby."
Faith leaned into the warmth of Buffy and her eyes closed. Buffy wrapped her arms around her now sleeping lover. She saw Tara had Willow in her arms as well.
Xander and Anya watched as everyone settled in comfortably. "You could have called us to help ya know Faith." Xander looked hurt at being left out of the fight.
"Didn't have a lot of time XanMan. It all happened so fast." A sleepy Faith answered.
< Is everyone alright? > Joyce went immediately over to Faith.
"Yes mom, well Faith is exhausted...again and Willow seems to be okay now."
< Willow, what happened? >
"A couple of demons showed up at the University. Faith killed the big one but the smaller one clawed me pretty bad. She could have gone after it, but she stayed to heal me. She had Tara call Buffy and when she showed up she gave us Faith's sword and went after the demon. She screamed in pain, Faith was caught between helping me and going to help Buffy. Good thing Spike showed up, he went to help Buffy so Faith could finish healing me. Buffy was carried back and was bleeding from a broken nose. Faith healed her too. Spike found an Egyptian necklace that Faith recognized as being part of a cult group. I kinda didn't hear the rest."
< Buffy are you alright? > Joyce's appearance didn't surprise anyone.
"Yes mom, I'm fine. My girlfriend is the best healer around."
< Faith, apart from being tired...are you okay? >
"Yes Joyce, I'm fine."
Joyce held out her open arms and Faith got up and walked into them. She loved being held by Buffy's mom, it made her feel like part of the Summers' family.
"Spike, Alexander...would ye follow me for a moment?"
"Sure thing Bre," Spike followed the older woman.
"Yes M'am," Xander followed her as well.
IN THE KITCHEN
Breanna asked Xander and Spike if it would be possible to build something she had designed...and build it in one day. She showed them her drawing and both agreed it could be done if the materials were on site.
"What's if for Breanna?" Xander asked.
"My money is on something Faith wants...for Buffy somehow."
Spike answered before the old woman could say anything.
"Ye would be right William. It is of course a secret."
"Lips are sealed M'am." Xander looked at the drawing again.
Breanna called Angel and asked if Spike and Xander could use the jet the day before everyone else. Of course he agreed providing he could help with the secret building project.
"Gentlemen...Angel will let you use the jet the day before everyone else arrives. He will also help with the building. Now then young man, will your girlfriend want to go with you or wait for the rest of us?"
"Anya would want to come with us...if that's okay."
Breanna called her friend Colleen. "Hello Col."
"How is your darling grandaughter?"
"She's fine, I need a favor."
"Name it."
"Well some of the young people will be coming to my home the day before the rest of us. Will ye meet them and give them the spare keys please. Also call Sean and have him contact me asap. I need to be placing an order for building supplies."
"He'll be calling ye in a few minutes. Names and descriptions of these young men would be useful Bre."
"Of course, Angel you have met, Spike is a blond vampire and Alexander is a dark haired young man and his girlfriend's name is Anya. They will be building something for me darling Faith."
Spike spoke up; "I can't help during the day...but I can put things together from inside for you two to use."
"Good enough William," Breanna smiled at the blond vamp.
Spike called Angel and asked if they could leave as soon as the sun goes down the following day. "That will let me help some when we get there, before the sun comes up. Angel and Xander can work outside during the day and I can do the painting when the sun sets."
"Sounds like a plan." Xander stuck out his hand and was pleasantly surprised when Spike took it and shook it.
IN THE LIVING ROOM
Willow was keeping a close eye on Faith. She knew the dark girl was exausted. As soon as Breanna came back, she pointed to the sword and then to Faith. Breanna nodded and handed the sword to Faith. "No arguements now Dearheart, use it."
Faith took the sword and recharged. She breathed deeply and smiled before putting it back in the box. "Thanks Gran."
Buffy kissed her girlfriend tenderly and was rewarded with a brilliant smile that made her knees go weak.
KNOCK KNOCK
Spike answered the door and let in Angel. He was quickly filled in as to what happened and what he was to do about the special surprise building. Once he made sure the girls really were alright, he pulled out his cell and ordered several large pizzas and pounds of wings.
RING RING
Breanna answered the phone. "Hello?"
"Hi mom, how is Faith tonight?"
"She is tired...again."
"Who did she heal this time and doesn't anyone there ever get through a day without getting hurt?"
"The young witchling and Buffy were both hurt and healed by our darling Faith."
"Let me speak to her please mom."
Breanna handed the phone to Faith. "Hi Pop. What's the what?"
"Are you okay?"
"Yeah, fine...don't worry about me so much."
"I spoke to Phillip and he is very impressed with you and all of your friends. Trust me Faith, he will keep the secret of who and what you all are."
"Hey Blondie, Red...Pop says the Prof was impressed with us."
Tara blushed, "But Faith...I d...didn't d...do anything."
"Yes you did Blondie, you gave Willow strength when she needed it. You got Buffy to go after the fucking thing. And most important...you trusted me to help her." Faith yawned but covered quickly by faking a cough.
Spike noticed and whispered to Buffy; "Why don't you take her upstairs...she's tired and won't admit it. Give her the backrub of her life...among other things."
Joyce also noticed the weariness in Faith. Breanna came over to talk to her about it.
"Joyce, why is she still so tired? She recharged with the sword."
< The sword can only give energy when it has been charged in the first place. She used it twice to heal Willow and then she healed Buffy. I believe the sword is in need of a charge itself and Faith can't do that til later or tomorrow. >
"So she needs to hold it every day without needing to use it immediately afterwards?"
< Yes. >
"Can I not charge it up for Dearheart?"
< Unfortunately not Breanna, I was surprised that you could gain strength from it. >
"I will see to it she does charge it every morning before I give her breakfast. Do ye know she has asked me to stay here?"
< Yes, and I am very happy you agreed to do so. They may all be young adults...but they still need reasurance occassionally. >
Faith stood up and asked Spike to accompany Buffy on patrol.
"Spike I'm too tired to be of any use to her, will you back her up?"
"Of course Slayer. Are you sure you will be alright?"
"Yeah Spike, nothing a good nights sleep won't cure."
"Well alright then, I'll met her at Restfield at ten thirty like planned. You take care of yourself."
"I will and thanks Spike."
Buffy took Faith's hand and led her to the stairs. She looked over her shoulder and said; "I'll be down in a little while. Snacks are in the kitchen, help yourself."
IN FAITH'S ROOM
Buffy sat Faith down and undressed her. Slipping into bed, a sleepy Faith mumbled; "Love ya B."
"Love ya back Faith. Sleep baby, you're earned it." Buffy kissed Faith tenderly on the cheek and covered her up. Soft snores could be heard causing the blond to smile.
Buffy came back downstairs and headed for Breanna. "You will keep an eye on her for me while we are gone right Breanna?"
"Of course Wee One, and I will tie her down if necessary to keep her here."
"Well she's asleep, let's hope she stays that way."
"Wee One. I know I'm not a useful member of your fighting force, but...I strongly suggest that you all come home uninjured. I don't want to see any of you hurt and me darling Faith won't be able to heal ye til morning."
"Wasn't planning on getting hurt Breanna, but shit happens on patrol. I can't back away just because someone MAY get hurt. It's what we do."
"Will...Tara, would you guys stay here til we get back?"
"Of course Buffy."
"Y...yes B...Buffy."
"I can go get the supply invoices ready. We will need them to be delivered before we all go away." Anya, ever the business woman, stated.
"And I need to draw up some basic plans and call my crew. They can possibly start getting materials that I will need for fixing up the Orphanage." Xander was smart enough to not mention the building project to be done for Breanna.
Breanna just stood back and watched as the 'young uns' went about getting done what needed to be done. Going over to Willow she asked; "How be ye feeling Witchling?"
"I'm fine Breanna...see?" Willow lifted her blouse and showed Breanna that the scars were almost faded entirely.
UPSTAIRS IN FAITH'S ROOM
The dark slayer was dreaming, or more accurately put, she was having a nightmare. "RED...NOOOOOOOOOOOO!"
DOWNSTAIRS
Breanna stiffened, "Dearheart?"
"Bre?" Tara looked at the older woman.
"It's Dearheart...I think she's having a nightmare. Please, Willow go to her. It's likely about you."
Willow ran upstairs and into Faith's room. She saw her friend covered in sweat and tossing and turning. "Red, I'm so sorry." Willow knew that waking a Slayer could be dangerous so she shielded herself and then gently shook Faith. Faith swung out and her fist bounced off the shield. She opened her eyes and blinked several times. "Red?"
"Yeah Faith, I'm here...and I'm, five by five thanks to you."
"How did you know?" Faith sat up forgetting she was naked.
Willow quickly turned away.
"Breanna told me."
"How did she know? Shit that's twice she knew, I thought the silence spell on my room was still active."
"It is Faith, we didn't hear you scream...she just knew."
KNOCK KNOCK
"Come in Gran."
"Are you alright Dearheart?"
"Yeah, damn nightmares...again. JOYCE!"
< What's wrong Faith? >
"Why am I having nightmares? Giles was fine and so is Red."
< I swear I don't know. But I will try to find out. > Joyce moved to take the upset young woman into her arms.
"Wait a minute, Red if you and Tara are here...who's watching B's back on patrol?"
"You asked Spike and he agreed." Willow didn't like the look of the dark circles under Faith's eyes.
"I gotta go," Faith sat up.
"Dearheart, if you go, you will be a liability to Wee One and Spike. You are too tired to fight to the best of your ability. You need to rest. If it weren't for your Slayer healing, ye would be bed ridden for quite a while. The sword and you are running on empty."
"But Gran!" Faith whined.
"But nothing Dearheart. I have Wee One's permission to tie you down...if necessary."
"You wouldn't...would you?"
Breanna just looked at Faith.
"Not fair, everyone but me has a resolve face." Faith pouted and the witches thought is was the cutest thing they had ever seen. "What time is it anyway?"
"It's a little after midnight Faith," Willow answered.
Breanna left and when she came back she had a large turkey sandwich and a glass of chocolate milk. "Here Dearheart, eat."
Tara and Breanna left the redhead with the Slayer.
DOWNSTAIRS
Xander put down the phone and signalled Breanna.
"Yes Alexander?"
"Your friend called and I told him what materials we will need, he said they would be waiting in the barn. Um barn?"
"Where did ye think I kept the cows and horses when the weather turns bad?"
"Cows?...horses?" Xander stared at the older woman.
"Yes dear. The barn is visible from the house and Colleen will meet ye when you arrive. Are ye sure you can do it all in a day?"
"It will be done Breanna, I promise."
"Thank ye Alexander. I just want it to be perfect...for Dearheart. It's important."
IN FAITH'S ROOM
"Faith, do you have bad dreams every time you heal someone?"
"Didn't dream about myself or B, only G-Man and you."
"That should tell you something Faith."
"What?"
"That it's only your insecurities coming out in those dreams. You are still leery about your healing ability, so your subconscious fills in the worst senario and it scares you."
"G-Man could have died and so could you."
"We didn't...but we would have if not for you."
Faith finished her sandwich and set the plate on the dresser. By now, Willow was used to seeing the Slayer naked, but she still blushed and turned away.
"Oops, sorry Red." Faith grabbed a pair of track pants and t-shirt and put them on. "Better?"
"Faith, take them off and get back into bed. Don't make me call Breanna."
"I wanna watch a little tv, and wait for B. Nothing stenuous, please?"
Willow grabbed the half full glass of milk and Faith followed her downstairs.
"Dearheart, you should be in bed!"
"Give it a rest Gran, I'm just gonna sit here and wait for B."
Faith sat in 'their' chair and turned the tv on. Willow looked at a worried Breanna and shrugged her shoulders. Tara walked out into the kitchen mumbling. Faith yawned a few times and fell asleep.
Tara came back and Willow smiled, "Good one baby, she will be pissed, but it was necessary. She was fighting to stay awake."
"Thank you Tara," Breanna hugged the blond wicca.
IN A GRAVEYARD
Buffy and Spike were getting bored.
"I could have stayed home with Faith," Buffy complained.
"Be careful Slayer, we aren't alone." Spike looked around and was almost hit in the gut. He tossed the foolish newbie to Buffy. The blond slayer decided to get a workout. She punched him in the face, dislocated his left knee and sent his right shoulder to another state.
"Just stake it already Buffy. You wanted to get home, remember?" Buffy grinned and staked the injured vamp.
Spike called Breanna to check on Faith.
"Slayer, Faith is waiting for you. Bre says she came downstairs a few minutes ago, but she fell back asleep."
"Let's go." Buffy said as she linked arms with the blond vamp.
AT BUFFY'S HOUSE
*I hope Buffy gets home before Faith wakes up again.* Willow smiled at the sleeping Slayer.
"MMMMM...Beeeeee..." Faith murmured.
Willow giggled; "At least this dream is pleasant." Tara smacked her girlfriend on the arm softly.
Faith sat up suddenly. "B?"
"She'll be here soon Faith, relax."
"I know Red, she's close...I can feel her." *Wanna feel her all over.*
Buffy and Spike came in soundlessly. Buffy ran into the now standing Faith's arms. "How do you feel baby?"
"Lot's better now." She looked at Spike; "Thanks for being there when I couldn't."
"I'd have been there whether you were or not. I am part of this team...aren't I?"
"Yes, you are Spike. So is either of you hurt?"
"Nope. There was only one newbie out tonight." Buffy shoved her sleeves up then pulled her girlfriend into her arms.
"Wee One?...Spike? Are ye hungry?"
"Starved Bre, whatcha got?" Spike followed the woman into the kitchen. They came back in a few minutes carrying plates with hot turkey sandwiches on them. These disappeared almost instantly.
"Bre?" Spike looked to the older woman.
"Yes William?"
"Can't you or Angel give Faith energy?"
"If I could, I would have done it already."
"Of course. Red, you and Tara share energy somehow...can't you help Faith?"
"Yo Spike...not needed. I'm fine...don't worry so much." She surprised the hell outta the blond vampire when she swung at him. He barely deflected the first thrown punch, but ended up on his ass when she sweep his legs out from under him. "Need more proof Spike?" Faith smiled as she held out her hand.
The witches giggled and Breanna breathed a sigh of relief. Her darling Faith was almost back to normal...for now.
"Meow...meow." Both kittens started climbing their owners legs. Faith picked up her little ball of black fur and settled it on her lap. Buffy scooped up her kitten and gave it a snuggly kiss.
Xander came over and hauled Spike away from the Slayers. He handed him the list of things he would be expected to do when they got to Breanna's home. "Consider it done."
"Well since everyone is alright, I'll be leaving. Breanna call me if they need anything."
"I will William. Angel said to meet him at the airport the minute the sun goes down tomorrow night."
Spike wiped out his cell phone and called Angel. "Listen to me Angel, I can't get to the airport when you want me to. Faith arranged for me to see Kory as soon as the sun sets. Will an hour and half later be okay?"
"Yes Spike and say hi to the little princess for me."
"I will. Bye."
"Faith, can I talk to you privately...for a minute?"
"Sure thing." The Slayer and vamp went into the kitchen. "So what's on your mind Spike?"
The blond vampire sucked in a hugh breath and handed Faith an old thin leather-bound book.
Faith quickly opened it and saw flowery descriptive poems.
"Spike, thank you. I will hide this and read it later. I know you don't want anyone to see it Spike...but why? You were published...as a poet. Holy Shit...your name...you related to him?"
"He was me great great uncle. You know Slayer, when his paramour wrote "Prometheus Unbound" otherwise known as "Frankenstein"... it scared the willys out of me when I read it as a young boy. I mean, monsters weren't real...or so I thought."
"That is one of my favorite books Spike. It shows a descent into the dark side of madness. I know how the monster felt. A lonelyness that is set so deep, it hurts...all the time. Even when he saved the little girl, the townspeople tried to kill him. That book shows us that the monster within us all is more deadly than any that could be created."
Spike smiled at the insightfulness of the dark Slayer. *I think she would appreciate an autographed first printing of the book. I just have to remember where I left my books.* Spike waved as he left by the back door.
Buffy came into the kitchen; "Is everything okay Faith? Where's Spike?"
"Everything is fine B, and he left. It's late, I think you should offer your room to Red and Blondie. They've had a long night. The couch pulls out into a bed...of sorts right?"
"Yes."
"Anya and XanMan can crash there. I'm not the only one who needs rest B."
"You're right. Why don't you go on up to your room and I will join you in a few." Buffy gently kissed her dark counterpart tenderly.
Once everyone was properly situated, Buffy and Breanna went upstairs.
IN FAITH'S ROOM
Buffy opened the door and was grabbed around the waist and tossed onto the bed with a flurish. Laughing as Faith quickly removed her clothes and Buffy's, the blond girl's breath caught in her throat. *She's so beautiful.*
Faith's eyes covered every square inch of Buffy before she smiled.
"Told ya I was fine Faith."
"Yeah I know B. I just..."
"You're the one who needs special attention."
"I stayed home tonight and it killed me B. I'm your partner, not just your lover."
"You're my everything Faith. I was proud of you for admiting that you were and probably still are tired. I know what that cost you baby."
"I just wanna be there for you...ya know?"
"You are baby, and I love you for it. Now come here."
Faith grinned and climbed into bed beside her sexy girlfriend. Buffy settled down onto Faith's chest and just listened to her heart beating and feeling the warmth of her skin. Faith smiled; *Seems I'm not the only one that's tired.* She wrapped her arms around Buffy and closed her eyes.
9:00 A.M.
KNOCK KNOCK
"Huh? Whatzat?" Faith mumbled sleepily.
Without thinking, Buffy called; "Come in."
Willow opened the door and covered her eyes. Faith laughed and she and Buffy grabbed their robes and put them on.
"Girls? Breakfast will be ready in a few minutes." Breanna yelled up.
Willow and Tara left the Slayers to get dressed.
IN THE KITCHEN
Xander and Anya were taking plates and silverware out of the cupboards. The witches joined them and poured everyone a cup of coffee and placed the cream and sugar in the middle of the table.
The Slayers finally came downstairs fully dressed. Faith went immediately over to Breanna and kissed her on the cheek.
"Morning Gran."
"Good morning Dearheart, how do you feel?"
"Ready to take on the world," she saw what was for breakfast and added; "Well after breakfast maybe." Her stomach let itself be known and everyone laughed and then Buffy stomach joined in and the laughter was even louder. *Damn Slayer metabolism.*
When breakfast was finished, Anya left for the Magic Shop, Xander went to his construction office and the witches decided to load the dishwasher. Faith of course was making Breanna's morning cup of tea. She didn't kid herself into believing that it was her first cup of the day. It had become a very enjoyable habit for the dark Slayer.
"Thank you Dearheart. Wee One?"
"Yes Breanna?"
"Could we go to the Tea Shop today while Faith is at work?"
"Of course, sorry I forgot about it last night."
"Not to worry, I still have a few bags left."
Faith wiped out her credit card and handed it to Buffy saying; "Get whatever she wants...times three."
RING RING
Breanna answered the phone; "Hello?"
"Good morning Breanna, how are the girls?"
"They're fine Rupert."
"Did you have Faith charge her sword?"
Colorful cussing could be heard.
"Dearheart...go charge your sword please. Ye may need it later although I hope not."
"Yes Gran." Faith found her sword in the living room. She held it for several minutes and was satisfied that it held a full charge. She put it back into its box.
"Will they be coming to train this morning?"
"Hold on, I'll ask them. Dearheart, Wee One...Rupert wants to know if ye will be training this morning?"
"Tell them I need a couple of test subjects. I wanna try something." Faith wondered if her healing ability could be used for the opposite.
"Dare I ask what she has in mind?" A cautious Giles asked.
"I wouldn't Rupert, unless ye be one of the subjects."
"Oh lord, send them over and Wesley and I will see what she has in mind. Bye the way, I have a new Irish Blend Tea you might like to try."
"See you soon."
Breanna looked at Faith and informed her that the Watchers would let her try what she wanted to do.
AT GILES HOUSE
Wesley let them in and instucted the Slayers to head down to the training room. "Breanna, there is a cup of tea for you in the kitchen."
"Thank ye Wesley."
The Slayers and witches went downstairs and waited for the Slayers to change into workout clothes.
"So Faith, what are you planning to do to me today?" Giles looked fearful, but curious at the same time.
Faith quickly took his finger and turned on her healing power. She saw the bone and thought of it as broken.
SNAP
"BLOODY HELL!" Giles shook his hand and scowled at Faith.
A flash of blinding light appeared and everyone but Faith was frozen.
{You will not use the opposite of your healing as method of fighting. Is that understood?}
Faith gulped, "Yes sir. I'm sorry."
{We were expecting it young one, just don't do it again...unless a life truly hangs in the balance.}
"Understood."
The light vanished and the witches, Buffy and Giles blinked several times.
"What just happened Faith?" Giles asked.
Faith remained silent as she healed Giles' broken finger. "I'm sorry G-Man, it was a stupid idea."
"Thank you, now what was a stupid idea?"
Willow spoke up; "I think she used her healing in the opposite way."
"Yeah Red I did, and the PTB's let me know it was wrong."
"Did they hurt you baby?" Buffy wasn't happy and let everyone know it.
"No B, they didn't. But they were right. I abused my gift and it won't happen again."
< You have a lot to learn Faith. > Joyce smiled at the chagrined young woman. < I always knew you were a lot smarter than you let on, but until recently, I didn't know how intuitive you were. >
"That's a bad thing?"
< Not at all Faith. Like anything new, you just need time to find out all the little in and outs of using it. I would say you have a fine start in the actual healing. Now all you need is the knowledge to understand the why's and how's. >
"That's why I'm going to University soon."
< I know dear and you will do very well. Rome wasn't built in a day. >
"I have to build a city now?" Faith looked stunned.
Joyce's laughter was heard even upstairs. Breanna and Wesley joined their friends.
"What did Dearheart or Wee One do now?"
< No Faith, you don't have to build a city. >
"Build a city? I say, what did we miss?" Wesley asked.
"Just me being an idiot...again." Faith grinned.
"You're not an idiot baby, mom was just teasing you...I think."
Tara was still giggling and Faith gave her the evil eye and she stopped.
"Girls...training if you please. The rest of you stand back."
Giles became their trainer again.
"Yeah, yeah G-Man." Faith stood about a foot in front of Buffy and they started throwing punches and kicks faster than the eye could follow. Faith stopped dead in her tracks, the wheels were turning in her mind again. Buffy pulled her last punch and waited for an explanation.
Faith controlled her breathing, and then increased the blood flow in her body. She could feel the extra adrenalin rushing through her. She snapped her arm out, grabbed Buffy and hoisted her into the air before anyone could react.
"AAAAAAAAAAAAAA...Faith, what the hell?" Buffy started squirming.
< Be very careful when you do that Faith. The extra power you gain from the adrenalin rush wears off fast and will leave you light-headed. >
Faith quickly put Buffy down and staggered. "Now ya tell me."
Willow rushed over to steady her friend since Buffy was still in shock at what Faith had done.
"Holy shit Faith, that was amazing. But pick someone else next time...yeah?"
"Yeah B, sorry. Are you okay? I didn't hurt you did I?"
"No, just scared the shit outta me for a minute. I know you have always been faster than me, but that...WOW!"
"Wow indeed. Faith how did you do that?"
"I just increased the blood flow, I figured it might give me an adrenelin rush and I was right. I just need to fine tune it a bit first."
Giles walked over to Joyce. "You and I are going to have a long talk about what she can do now and what she will be able to do in the future."
"Hey Wussley...round two?" Faith tossed the younger Brit a quarter staff.
"I...AM...NOT...A...WUSS!"
"Bring it." Faith challenged.
*Where's a friendly vampire when you need one?* Wesley squared off again Faith as Buffy did the same with Giles.
As the watchers got up off the floor, the Slayers were laughing.
"Har, bloody har. Let's see you try that again." Wesley stepped back and tried to sweep Faith's legs out from under her. Silly boy was knocked on his ass again. Giles wasn't having any better luck, although he was still standing...barely.
The witches were whispering and suddenly a shield appeared around the watchers and it was the Slayers on their asses.
"RED!"
"WILL!"
"I say that felt bloody marvelous," Wesley grinned and offered his hand to Faith.
"Not bad for an old man wouldn't you say Buffy?" Buffy took Giles offered hand and stood up.
"Not bad for an old guy with witches help. Hey B?"
"Yeah?"
"I think Red and Blondie should start fighting training...don't you?"
*OH OH.* Willow paled.
*OH OH.* Tara swallowed hard.
"Absolutely Faith." Buffy had a matching evil grin.
"Uhhh...Faith don't you have to get cleaned up and get to work?"
Willow squeaked.
"FUCKKKKK, you're off the hook...today Red. Come tomorrow, you and Blondie will be fair game. But I will allow you both to use that shield thingee."
"Gee thanks." The witches looked at each and had the same thought. *We are so screwed.*
Breanna was smiling as Faith came over to her. "Whatcha thinking about Gran?"
"Just that life doesn't get any better than this Dearheart. I wish I had met you earlier than I did. Thank you for letting me become part of your family here."
Faith pulled the woman into her arms and squeezed tight enough to let Breanna know she was a Slayer. "You are the most important person in my life after B...Gran."
"Faith, go get changed, you have to be at work in forty-five minutes. I can drop you off before Tara and I hit the book store on campus. I'll get the books you need too...if you want."
"Thanks Red. B, can you get some cash from my card to give to her before you take Gran to the Tea Shop?"
"No problem Faith."
"Hey Faith, you're not the only rich person remember. Please let me buy your books. I owe you my life, buying books seems like a small price to pay for that. And Tara and I will help you study any time you want. Won't we baby?"
"Y...yes. But I think s...she will be h...helping us more than we help h...her."
Faith was dropped off at work while everyone else went to the University book store.
AT THE ORPHANAGE
Peter came running up to Faith with his arms open. Faith smiled and picked him up and carried him into the common room. Anthony came over and handed Faith a note from Allan.
Dear Faith,
I will bring back the coins later today. The project will be handed in first thing this morning. Thanks for you help and not thinking that I'm an idiot.
Love Allan
Faith smiled and put the note in her back pocket.
4:00 P.M.
When Allan got home Faith could see the hang dog expression on his face.
"Hey Al, what's the what?"
"Oh god, don't kill me Faith."
"Allan?"
The upset young teen handed Faith his project showing his mark of ninety-four.
"That's great Al, so why the long face?"
"One of the gold coins is missing. The teacher said it was there when he marked my project but it was gone when I got it back. I'll work it off somehow...I promise. I'm sorry Faith."
"That's all that's worrying you? Hell Al, I have a whole chest of them. Don't worry about it...k?"
"Really?"
"Yes really. But I would like you to keep any eye on Petey while I'm gone for the New Year holiday. You can say no Al."
"I can do that and Tiffany and I are learning sign language so we can talk to him." The youth smiled.
Faith high-fived Allan and he left to go do his homework. Faith called Buffy to remind her she would only be home for dinner and then needed to pick up Spike and take him to see Kory.
"Okay baby since it's for Kory...but I want some time alone with you before we go on patrol."
"Me too B, I love you and I gotta go. See you in a about a hour."
"Love you too Faith, bye."
"Bye B." Faith and Buffy both sent semi-passionate kisses through their shared bond.
Faith hung up and rejoined the kids in the common room. Anthony came over and suggested that she go wake up Kory and bring her downstairs since dinner would be ready soon.
"Gotcha T-Man." Faith took the stairs two at a time. She opened the door to Kory's room and smiled when the little girl rolled over and held her arms out.
"Spikey come?"
"I will bring him here after dinner, I promise sweatheart."
Chan met them coming down the stairs. "Hi Kory...Faith."
"Smiley boy," she laughed.
"Why are you up here now Chan?"
"Gotta change my shirt, I spilled sauce on it. I'll be right down."
Faith brought Kory into the common room and set her down beside Petey. She signed; 'keep an eye on her for me while I check what's going on in the kitchen, k little dude?'
Petey nodded as Faith headed out back to the kitchen. "How's it going in here guys?"
"Just putting the stuff in bowls. Uh...we put some in a smaller bowl for you...if you want to take it with you," the blue haired kid said shyly. Faith took the bowl and sniffed dramatically.
"This smells great, thank you." Faith made one last check to see that everyone had what they needed before leaving. Kory started to tear up. "Hey Kory, I have to go have my dinner, then I will bring back Spikey."
"Spikey! Spikey!" She clapped and allowed herself to be put in her special chair. She could reach the table, but Anthony sat beside her to feed her.
"I guess we'll see you and your friend in a little while?"
"Yup, we be back around seven."
When Faith walked outside to the bus stop she found Willow waiting for her.
"Hey Red, what's the what?"
"Get in, I am in charge of the 'Find Faith and get her gorgeous ass home pronto' patrol." She laughed.
"B." Faith joined in the laughter and got in. "Red, can we stop at a flower shop?"
"Okay, why?"
"Well B likes yellow roses and Gran like tiger lily's. So I wanna get a bunch of both for them."
"There you go, but hurry."
Faith ran into the flower shop that Willow had stopped in front of. She quickly told the sales clerk what she wanted and paid for her purchases with the card Willow had handed back to her.
"Thanks Red, and here. I know Blondie like red carnations."
Faith handed Willow a dozen red carnations properly wrapped with 'Baby's Breath' mixed in.
Willow leaned over and hugged the surprised Slayer. "Thank you Faith, she will love them."
AT THE SUMMERS' HOUSE
Faith and Willow, carrying their gifts came into the living room. Buffy ran over and while kissing her girlfriend, almost crushed her flowers. When Buffy let go, she grinned and took the flowers. Faith went into the kitchen and handed Breanna her bunch of flowers and grabbed two vases. One she handed to Buffy and the other she gave to Breanna. "They're lovely Dearheart, thank ye."
Willow handed Tara her flowers and blushed. "They're b..beatiful, th...thank you Willow."
"You're welcome baby."
"Come and get it." Breanna hollered.
After dinner Faith called Spike and asked him to be ready, she would be there to pick him up in a few minutes.
"Hey Red, can I see the books you bought for me?"
"Yep, hang on." Willow went to the table in the corner and brought back what felt like a ton of books. Faith grabbed them quickly and looked through them.
"These are great, thanks Red. B, I gotta go but I'll be back before patrol."
"I know you're taking Spike to see Kory. Hurry back."
"Love ya B."
"Love you too Faith."
AT SPIKE'S CRYPT
"Knock knock."
"Come in Faith."
Spike handed the dark Slayer a wrapped gift. "Just open it."
Faith ripped the paper off and found a first printing of "Frankenstein". "Holy shit Spike, this is...this is amazing. Thank you." She gave the blushing vampire a kiss on the cheek.
"Look inside the cover pet."
Faith opened the book and saw it had been autographed by Mary Shelley. "I'll get G-Man to insure this. Can I read it or should I put it away?"
"Read it by all means, then put it away in a safe, dry place. Can we go see the little princess now?"
"Let's go. Oh one other thing Spike."
"What's that?"
"What are you, Angel and Xanman up to?"
"Breanna asked us to build something on her property and since she doesn't ask for much, we agreed."
"Whatever it is...do your best for her Spike."
"We will."
AT THE ORPHANAGE
As soon as Spike and Faith walked in, Petey and Kory came running to their heroes.
"Spikey Spikey!" Kory reached out her arms and was picked up immediately by the blond vampire. She gave him a sloppy wet kiss on both cheeks.
"How's my little princess?"
The little girl grinned and hugged Spike.
Allan came over to Faith; "My teacher came by a little while ago, he found the coin. I didn't ask for details. I'm sorry it got lost, but here it is."
"Keep all three Al. Told ya, I have plenty more."
"Really?"
"Really. I wanted to ask you something."
"Ask away."
"Are you sure that you and Tif want me and B tagging along on the dinner thingee next week?"
"Absolutely Faith. You and Buffy talk to us, help us...and we wanted to thank you. So will you and Buffy come with?"
"Of course Al, thank you."
"Ummm...it's a fancy place, would you wear a dress?"
"Yes Al, we both will. Now what are you going to wear?"
"The black suede suit you bought for me and Tif will wear the pink dress."
Faith smiled at the young man. She knew his nervousness would be short lived. "Relax Al, she cares...you care. Just be yourself."
"Thanks Faith. Ummm...Faith?"
"Yes?"
"Can I pick your brain again?"
"Fire away."
"Tif has to do a book report, but we can't find the book the teacher assigned her. Have you ever heard of a book called "Prometheus Unbound?" I know he was the Greek god chained to a mountain by Zeus for giving people fire. Hecules rescued him, so I figured that would be the book, but we couldn't find it."
Faith smiled. "Al, "Prometheus Unbound" is the secondary title for the book "Frankenstein"."
"Cool, we have that book here. Hey Tif!"
Al went over to the bookcase and grabbed the Mary Shelley book.
"Open the cover Al, look for a.k.a"
"HUH?"
"Also known as."
"Got it. Wow! You're right. Tif check it out."
Tiffany looked over Al's shoulder and grinned. "Thanks Faith, we would never have found it without your help."
"I'm thinking it was a test to see if you would be able to find the book, not just write a report about it. Do you know the story?"
"Yes, well I saw a couple of movies." Tiffany answered.
"Well the book is a little different in parts. So read it before writing...k? If you want, I would be happy to proof-read your report before you hand it in. When is it due?"
"In two weeks. I'll make you proud."
Tif took the book and went upstairs to her room to begin reading as instructed. Al stood aside trying to decide if he should ask Faith about Spike.
"What else is on your mind Al?"
"Your friend Spike. He's a good guy, he loves Kory but...the hairs on the back on neck kinda stand up around him. Am I nuts or something?"
"Nope, wait here."
Faith went over to Spike, Kory and Petey. "Hey guys I need to borrow Spike for a few minutes.
"Spikey come back?"
"Of course sweetheart."
Spike followed Faith to where Al was waiting.
"Tell him what you said to me Al."
Al shuffled his feet and sucked in his lower lip.
"I can't help, if I don't know what's wrong." Spike said softly.
"There is something about you...it creeps me out and I don't understand why. You're a cool guy."
"Thank you." Spike looked at Faith as if to say; Do I tell him the truth?"
"Up to you Spike."
Spike drew in a deep breath and put his game face on for a few seconds. He made sure no one else saw him do it.
"What the hell? You're a vampire? But I thought all vampires were bad."
"Not all Al. You won't be telling any one right?" Faith said.
"Angel is the same...isn't he?"
"Yes, but silence is necessary for both their sakes...k?"
"Yes, I didn't mean to insult you Spike."
"Not insulted Al, you should always listen to your instincts. I better get back to Kory."
Spike read another 'Curious George' book to Kory and then took her up to her room. He sent one of the kids to find Faith. She joined him and he asked her to change the little girl as he stepped outside into the hall. Faith gave her a quick bath and put her jammies on her. "Come in Spike."
"Why don't you tuck her in and I will meet you downstairs."
"I think you need to stay, male in a female room...remember?"
"I just wanted to give you some privacy Spike, I'll wait outside in the hall, leave the door open."
"Thanks Slayer."
Spike picked up the tiny girl and put her in the bed. As he pulled the covers up, he leaned down and kissed the baby soft hair on her head. "Night night sweetheart."
"Night Spikey. You come back again?"
"Whenever they let me and Faith has time, I will." Spike started humming the old tune "Early one morning', the same song his mother used to hum to him when he was little.
Faith smiled at the continued tenderness the vamp showed Kory. Anthony came down the hall and seeing Faith asked her where Spike was.
"He's humming a lullabye to Kory, I'm here so he isn't alone with her. But you have to know, he would never hurt her and god help anyone that ever does."
"I know, but rules are rules."
Spike came out smiling. "She's asleep."
"Spike, we need to know that this isn't a passing thing. Will you be part of her life forever or just a short time?"
"Forever mate. She's like a little sister to me. I won't just up and bloody well disappear, I promise."
"Swear jar Spike," Faith laughed.
Spike pulled out a dollar, then pulled out a second one and gave Faith a raspberry.
"Raspberry's don't cost anything Spike." Anthony informed him. Faith and Spike went back downstairs to say their goodbyes to the rest of the kids before leaving.
"Spike, would you consider telling the boss the truth about yourself?"
"I don't think that would be a good idea Slayer, he might not let me come back."
"Just think about it for now, that's all I ask."
"I will, now lets get you back to Buffy."
Faith smiled; "Yeah, wanna see B."
"Only see?" Spike teased.
"Smartass!"
"Swear jar Faith!" The kids yelled.
Faith dutifully put her dollar in and scowled at Spike.
On the drive home, Spike gently touched the Slayer's arm; "Thank you for bringing me to see Kory. When can we do it again?"
"When we get back from Gran's, I will bring you here the first night I work...fair enough?"
"Yes. You like her too, don't you?"
"Of course, she's adorable Spike. And I'm glad she has you as a protector and friend."
"Are you upset that I showed Al what I am?"
"Not at all Spike and don't worry, he won't tell anyone...well maybe Tif, and you don't have to worry about her."
"They really are a great group of kids. Who needs a bloody soul, I do fine without it."
"I think that you somehow gained yours back. Love comes from the soul and you love Kory."
"Anyone who couldn't love her should be my next meal!"
AT THE SUMMERS' HOUSE
Spike told Faith he would meet her and Buffy at Restfield Cemetary at ten thirty.
"K, Spike and thanks again for keeping an eye on B last night."
Faith went into the house whistling.
"Someone is happy," Buffy said as she properly welcomed Faith back with a passionate kiss.
"With a welcome like that...how could I not be happy B?"
Faith's eyes flashed silver and she looked around. "Gran?"
The Slayers went into the kitchen and saw Breanna with her head in her hands.
"GRAN! What's wrong? How can I help?"
"Relax Dearheart...it's just a wee headache and stiff neck. Nothing to worry about."
"SIT!"
"Would ye like me to beg and roll over next?"
"Maybe later," Faith placed her hands on Breanna tight neck muscles and started to massage the stiffness out. Buffy stood beside Breanna and then grabbed some ice which she ran gently over the older woman's temples.
"That feels wonderful you two, thank ye."
"You're welcome Gran. Now stay still and let us work our own brand of magic. B has magic hands...believe me."
"I have no doubt of that Dearheart." Breanna smirked at the now blushing Slayers.
"I meant...ah hell Gran..." Faith pouted.
Buffy and Breanna laughed together at the pouting dark haired girl.
"So, will ye help me to plan this party for New Year's?"
"What can we do?" Buffy asked.
"Well, I need to know what kind of music ye all listen to, what kind of food ye prefer, what drinks and mixes and whether or not this be a young folk party?"
"Without you, there is no party Gran. You're the hostess with the mostest remember?"
"Are ye sure? I can stay in my room."
"Not a chance Breanna. I mean Giles and Wesley aren't exactly young either and they will be partying til the wee hours of the morning too. Do you have any more of that really old Irish Whiskey? I know they like that. I would say stock up on the JD, Jose, rum, coke and ginger ale. And anything you cook or we order is fine for food."
The next day flew by quickly. The boys and Anya had left for Ireland and they were taking care of what needed to be done.
IN IRELAND
It was almost two in the morning when the Sunnydale crew arrived at Breanna's house. They knocked and were let in by Colleen.
"Hello Angel and these must your friends...Spike, Alexander and Anya."
"Yes, Colleen they are."
"Well don't just stand there gawking, come in." The old woman ushered them into the library. She pointed to the bar and Angel quickly poured two fingers of very old Irish Whiskey for everyone. "There be wood, nails, hammers, drill guns and paint in the barn. Will ye be needing anything else?"
"Not at the moment Colleen, thanks for staying up to wait for us." Angel took the keys and put them in his pocket.
"Breakfast is at eight, don't be late." Colleen waved as she left.
Anya looked around the library and whistled. "She has quite the collection here."
The guys all headed out to the barn to see what was there. Spike grabbed several long pieces of wood and started nailing them to together to make six sided frame. Angel and Xander pulled out the fancier smaller pieces and checked them against the rough plan that Breanna had given them.
A couple of hours later, Spike was finished. He had eight sides that just needed to be put together. Xander had glued the fancy pieces on and Angel had made what would be used as the floor.
Together they dragged and carried the parts to place on the map indicated by Breanna. It took them about an hour to put the pieces together once the foundation and floor were laid.
Anya brought out a tray of sandwiches and a six pack of Irish beer she found in the fridge. "Break time."
"See why I love her?" Xander came over and kissed his girlfriend before taking a long drink of beer. Spike wolfed down his sandwich and then drained his beer in a matter of minutes. "Anya honey, can you help Angel put the little bridge across the stream. Then after we paint this, you can make the roses come across and wrap around the whole...what did Breanna call this?"
"A Folly, Xander," Angel supplied.
"Uh huh...it looks like a gazebo to me."
"Want a hankie mate?" Spike laughed.
"What do you call it then mister smarty vampire?"
"A Fancy, me mother had several. She liked flowers." The look Spike gave Xander was understood to mean; Dis me mom and die.
"Uh Spike, the sun will be up in about ten minutes, you should run back to the house now. I don't think Faith would appreciate a pile o Spike dust left here." Xander cracked.
"Yeah Spike, Xander and I can put the redwood stain on. I think Faith would like it better than red paint."
"You can start making a list of things we need to get in town tomorrow if you like." Anya asked.
"Right, see you all soon." Spike took off as the first rays of sun were starting to come over the horizen. Angel stopped what he was doing and just watched.
Xander watched Angel watching the sunrise. "You like watching that?"
"I haven't seen that in over two hundred years...well I did watch one with Faith...the first I've seen in centuries. It's beautiful Xander."
"Enjoy then, I'll go check on Spike and the list of stuff we need later...and see what Anya is up to."
"Checking on Anya? Your room is the second on the left at the top of the stairs."
Xander blushed, but remained silent as he walked back up to the house. *Damn vamp...always right...who does he think...* Anya grabbed the young man as soon as he entered the house and planted a wet, passionate kiss on him that left his boots smoking.
"Can we have sex now?"
Xander blushed and felt his pants tighten around his now hard as a rock penis. He scooped her up into his arms and ran up to their assigned room.
Angel came in and saw Spike writing the list. Reading it over he saw: chicken wings, pizza, onion rings, french fries, submarine sandwiches, Irish Whiskey, Jack Daniels, Bicardi Rum, Jose Tequila, Tequila Rose, Coke, Ginger Ale and Seven-Up.
"That should cover it Spike. I'll go get all that stuff later today. The booze and mix, I can get soon, but the food should be ordered and picked up after everyone is already here."
"Sounds good to me mate. Do you have any idea why we are doing all of this? I mean I know Bre is doing it for Faith for some reason."
Angel smiled; "Faith is going to ask Buffy to marry her tonight. Breanna mentioned that Faith liked the rose bush over the small stream and intended on taking Buffy there to propose."
"Propose? Women can't marry other women...can they?"
"Yes, it is legal in some states and I'm sure Willow could come up with a Wicca ceremony for them. And it's supposed to be a secret, so keep quiet about it and be surprised like the rest of us when she tells us."
"I will. They really do belong together."
"Yes they do."
IN FAITH'S ROOM
Faith was dreaming and she was confused. It was a disconnected dream and she was fully expecting Buffy to show up and explain it. Cats of all shapes and sizes were following her, almost herding her into an old tomb. When the mummy sat up and moaned out: "Chosen One," Faith screamed.
"AAAAAAAAA!" Faith sat up suddenly and was gasping for breath.
Buffy woke up quickly and reached for Faith. "Baby...what's wrong?"
"B? Did you see all those cats too?" *Please say yes.*
"Uh...cats? No I didn't. I don't remember what I was dreaming about. Are you okay?"
"Yes, I'm fine. No cats in your dream?"
"Don't know...don't remember. Tell me about your dream."
"You promise not to measure me for straight-jacket?"
"OOOOOO...leather and buckles...I don't know baby, that would look hot on you."
Faith grinned and shook her boobies in Buffy's face. Buffy pulled Faith into her arms and waited while Faith got her thoughts straightened out.
"Okay B, it was like this. I was looking for you and I couldn't find you. Then a shitload of cats kept appearing. They kinda pushed me towards an old tomb. I went in and...the mummy sat up. I think I screamed then." *If I tell her it spoke, she would really think I've lost it.*
"Well baby, you did scream. What kind of tomb? Rock? Mausoleum? Hole in the wall? Do you recognize where you were?"
"Uhhh, it was rock and it looked like the Valley of the Kings or Queens."
"Egypt?" *If it were a Slayer dream...I would remember too. I wonder if it's a prophectic dream?*
"Yeah B. Something weird is gonna happen. I'm sure of it. There was the wrong setup in the window of the store in the mall and then Gran told me that Tara saw the same mistake at the museum. I need to talk to G-Man."
Buffy sniffed, "Breakfast is cooking, we better get dressed and get down there. You can talk to Giles when we go over there to train. You wanted to start training Willow and Tara, remember?"
Faith grinned, "Oh yeah...I remember. They get to use their shield thingee, but it will be fun."
Faith grabbed the sketch pad and a pencil. She started drawing the tomb entrance. She closed her eyes and saw the hierogylphs. She copied them to the best of her ability. She was so engrossed in what she was doing that she didn't hear Buffy ask her to join her in the shower.
Buffy rinsed the shampoo out of her hair. She knew Faith had a one track mind when she was on to something. So being the good girlfriend, Buffy didn't send any hot pics or invite the dark girl to join her again. She got out and dried off. Wearing just the towel, she walked back into their room and took a good look at the drawing that Faith created. She saw Faith chewing on her bottom lip, deep in concentration. *Damn, she's cute when she's thinking.*
"Faith?" Buffy gently touched the dark girl's shoulder. Faith jumped a mile taking the top sheet with her. Panting and wheezing, she stood in the corner. Buffy immediately went to her. "I'm so sorry Faith, are you okay?"
"Yeah B, ya just startled me...that's all." *That wasn't a dream, I was really there. What the fuck happened there?*
Buffy looked at the little pictures in circles, "do you know what they say?"
"Well, a couple of them. But these two shouldn't be together. It's strange."
"Strange how?"
"This one is the mark of the cat goddess Bastet, and this one is the Nile river at its highest mark. Cat's and water don't mix."
"Speaking of water..." Buffy pointed to the shower. "I left you some hot water."
"K, thanks B." Faith got up and glided into the bathroom to take her shower. When she came back out, she saw Buffy staring at the drawing. "See something interesting?"
"Look at this one Faith. It kinda looks like a Slayer. A woman with a stake and there is a creature at her feet."
"Yeah B, I saw that. But I didn't think Slayers existed that long ago." She snapped her fingers, and ran to get her laptop.
"Faith, you might wanna get dressed first."
"Oh shit...good idea B." Faith grabbed a faded pair of blue jeans and a white tank top. They came downstairs to the kitchen and greeted Breanna.
"Morning Gran."
"Morning Breanna."
"Top of the morning to ye girls. Are ye hungry?"
Both Slayers looked at Breanna. Their stomaches growled on cue in unison.
"Silly question." Breanna served up nice thick slices of ham and two poached eggs for each girl.
Faith sat the older woman down and made her a cup of special tea. Breanna smiled and let her grandaughter do it. It was a morning ritual that both enjoyed.
"Ummm...Gran?"
"Yes Dearheart?"
"Did you or your husband ever go to Eygpt?"
"Yes, we did. It was a very long time ago. Just before World War II actually. Why?"
"Can you think of any reason that the Nile at it zenith and the Goddess Bastet would be together?"
"Sorry Dearheart, I don't know anything about the country or its history. Why don't you call the young witchling?"
"I will Gran, I just wanna check the web myself first." Faith brought out her laptop, which was taken away by Breanna. "Hey! What gives?"
"Eat your breakfast while it's still hot. The information will still be there...somewhere, when you're done."
"Yes Gran."
Buffy giggled and got the evil eye from her girlfriend. After the dishes had been placed in the dishwasher, the Slayers and Breanna went to sit down in the living room. Faith grabbed her laptop and zoned out as she continually pressed buttons, and clicked her way through the hype and truth of Egypt's past.
Buffy looked at Breanna and they both shook their heads. Buffy decided the best way to help Faith was to call Giles and give him a heads up.
AT GILES HOUSE
RING RING
"Hello?"
"Hi Giles, can you and Wes dig anything that has both the Nile River at its highest and some cat goddess named Bastet?"
"Of course...why?"
"Faith had a dream...the picture she drew after she woke up shows some little pictures."
"Ah yes, hierogylphs. Continue."
"Giles, there was also one that looked like a Slayer in action. Is that possible?"
"It would depend on the date. The earliest recorded Slayer came into existance just over a thousand years ago. She was an African warrior woman. She was also the daughter of a very powerful priest. Egypt was no longer the powerhouse it once was, but it was still a centre of trade at the time."
"Do those three little pic thingees help? What do they mean?"
"Were there more glyphs?"
"Huh?"
"Little picture thingees," Giles sighed deeply.
"Yes, Faith has the picture she drew and she is busy banging away on her laptop looking for answers, but I figure you and Wes have access to better information."
"We will see what we can find. Wesley wants to talk to Faith."
Buffy handed the phone to Faith. "Hey Wuss...what's up?"
"Don't call me...scan and send the picture you drew. Giles and I will check our resources for any information."
"Great idea, hang on." Faith went to the closet and pulled out the scanner that had come with her laptop. She hooked it up and scanned her drawing. Then she sent it to Giles email address.
"Got it. We'll start looking right away. You all need to come over shortly for training remember?"
"Yeah, yeah. We'll get there eventually. You just can't wait to have me knock you on your ass again...can you?" Faith laughed.
"Now see here..."
Buffy pulled the phone away and calmed the younger Brit down as Faith went back to her research. She sent an email attachment to Willow with the picture and request for anything she could find out.
"Girls we should get over to Giles house, you two need to spar before Faith goes to work."
"Coming Breanna," Buffy said as she picked up Faith's work bag, and their workout clothes. "Come on Faith, your toy will be here when you get home."
"But B..." Faith whined. "I think I found something."
"What?"
"Look here, it says that a strange light skinned woman came out of the desert and secretly trained the Pharoh's private body guards. She could take on a half dozen of Pharoh's best and not break a sweat. Sounds like a Slayer to me. And get this...she was in good with the High Priestess of Bastet. They tried to gain more power over the Pharoh and he had them lashed together and sent back out into the desert the woman came from. His guards found both of their bodies a few weeks later. It was believed that they had killed each other. There was a witness...some kind of trader. According to him both women, cursed the Pharoh and the world he and his descendants would rule, with their dying breath. The Pharoh got sick a few days later and died."
"Holy Shit Faith. We need to talk to Giles."
"Yeah." Faith printed out her research and then turned her laptop off. She rushed out the door and locked it. She still smiled when looking at the house and her set of keys.
AT GILES HOUSE
When Faith and Buffy came in, they saw the witches already there.
"Faith, I did a Google search and found a story about a woman that sounds like a Slayer." Willow turned her laptop around for Faith to see. Faith smiled and handed Willow her research.
"Oh...you already saw it."
Giles had been shown the result of Willow's search and was surprised to see that Faith had found the exact same information.
"There is definitely something funky going on G-Man. The misplaced piece both times were older than just one thousand years. You said the first Slayer appeared after that. Are you sure about that? Is it possible that one appeared before?"
"I will search the oldest records and find out. Is there a description of the woman?" Wesley asked quickly.
"I didn't get that far, sorry Wussley." Faith cracked.
"God damnit Faith, stop calling me that!"
"If I can put up with G-Man and Limey Peeper, you can handle being called Wussley."
"Eureka!" Willow yelled. "Goddess, listen to the description of that woman. I worked out her height and weight, she was 5' 6" tall and weighed one hundred and twenty pounds approximately. She had long dark hair, dark brown eyes, whitened coffee colored skin, and was considered a temptress. Sound like someone we know?"
"Oh fuck!" Faith cried out.
"That could describe a lot of people Faith." Buffy tried to calm her girlfriend.
"It says here, the British Museum has a statue of the two women that looks like they did when the Pharaoh sent them out into the desert." Willow clicked a few more times and then all the colour drained from her face.
Faith came over to look. "I got a bad feeling about this. OH SHIT! That's me! What the fuck?"
"Faith do you remember anything else about your dream?" Giles asked. He needed to be certain before trying to explain what he was privy to.
"It was in the Valley of Kings or Queens, I'm not sure which. There was a shitload of cats, all colours and sizes. They drove me to the tomb."
Wesley cleared his throat to get everyone's attention. "Faith, it this what you saw?" He handed her a printed out picture.
"That's it! What is it? Where is it? And am I gonna be possessed or something?"
"It's the mythilogical tomb of Bastet's daughter, it's location was kept secret and was known only to the initiated. That information was lost in ancient times. Her name translates to 'The Faithful". Bastet supposedly sent her daughter, a demi-goddess, to her father...a Nubian chieftan. He was to send her back to the High Priestess when she was ready to take on the evils of the Egyptian kingdom."
"I knew it...I'm gonna be fucking possesed aren't I?"
"Not necessarily Faith," Giles said in a not very convincing voice.
"Hey Gran, do we have any Egyptian ancesters?"
"I don't know Dearheart. But I do know, that you are the strongest person, both mentally and physically, that I have ever met. So I have no fear that you will deal with whatever happens when it happens."
"She won't be dealing with it alone Breanna." Buffy pulled her upset girlfriend into her arms. She could feel her fear through the bond.
Faith looked at Tara for several minutes until the blond said; "What's on y...your mind F...Faith?"
"You can read aura's or some shit like that right?"
"Yes. W..Why?"
"Look at me...really look at me. Am I me or do I have company in here?" Faith pointed to her head.
Tara stared at the brunette for a moment. "F...Faith! T..tell me what you s...see when you c...close your eyes."
Faith shivered but closed her eyes. She was back in the cave as the mummy sat up and spoke to her again. "Chosen One...the time of retribution is coming."
"NOOOOOOO!!!!!" Faith collasped in a heap.
"Tara what the hell did you do to her?" Buffy yelled as she barely prevented Faith from hitting her head on the floor.
"She has something m...m...my grandmother called 'G...Genetic Memory'."
"Bloody hell," Giles said.
"Is it dangerous to Dearheart?" Breanna asked quickly.
Faith opened her eyes and clung to Buffy. "Don't wanna die again," she said more to herself than anyone else.
Breanna had heard that impassioned whisper and mouthed; "Kiss her," to Buffy.
Buffy ran her fingers lightly down Faith's cheek and leaned into her. The kiss was gentle...at first. But when Faith responed, it quickly got heated. "Welcome back baby. Now lets get back to the business of getting to Ireland for now...Egypt can wait."
Faith looked over to see Breanna motioning the putting on of a ring, and she grinned. "Yeah B...uh New Year's Party." She giggled.
*She's up to something...and everyone seems to know about but me.* "Faith? Baby? What are you all up to? And why did the guys leave yesterday? What..."
Faith's hand quickly covered Buffy mouth. Buffy stopped talking and Faith kissed her. "It's a surprise B. I love you k?"
"I want to know now," Buffy licked her lips slowly and gave Faith the most lustful look.
Tara didn't know what was going on but she new that Faith was about to cave. "T..training...remember?" Tara interjected.
Faith shook her head, scowled at Buffy and answered, "Oh yeah, you two are gonna join the BBB club."
The witches looked at each other. *BBB club?*
"The black and blue butt club...for the uninitiated." Faith responded.
Willow's look of 'Are you nuts?' caused Tara to laugh.
DOWN IN THE TRAINING ROOM
The witches thoughts ran the same way. How to get out of training with two Slayers.
Faith and Buffy walked in and tossed their friends a couple of quarter staffs. "Set em down beside you. Start with the stretching exercises first. We don't wanna hurt you...too bad."
Faith smirked and winked at Willow.
After a few minutes of stretching exercises Faith got up and grinned at the worried witches. "Okay...make with yur shield thingee and let's get at it."
A blue energy surrounded the girls and they braced themselves for the Slayer attack. Faith's staff bounced off Willow's shoulder hard enough to send Willow to the ground.
Meanwhile Buffy had swept Tara's legs out from under her. "OOOMPHHH! That's l..lesson o..o...one?"
Tara and Willow grinned at each other wickedly. Buffy grabbed Faiths hand. "Oh oh Faith...I think we pissed them off."
Faith watched Willow's eyes and when she saw the redhead about to let the power flow outward, she forced extra adrenalin through her system and jumped straight up, taking Buffy with her. The blue power bolts went under them as they somersaulted over the witches and landed behind them. Smacking them across the top of their heads dummied and dropped them both.
Buffy quickly steadied her girlfriend, knowing she would be tired from giving herself that extra boost of energy.
Willow gave a Tara a look that said, 'Just you wait til we get home missy.'
The Slayers didn't miss it and responsed. "Oh oh Tara...you're gonna get it later." Buffy grinned and looked away.
"Or not," Faith smiled and waited for it to sink in. She loved seeing Red blush and she thought a matching set would be hilarious. She wasn't disappointed.
"F...Faith...y..ou...," Tara stuttered.
"FAITH! Ribbit Ribbit," Willow raised her hands.
Buffy couldn't help herself, she loved her girlfriend's devious side. Once she stopped laughing, she kissed the dark haired girl like there was no tomorrow. "Nice one baby."
"Ahem..." Giles cleared his throat.
"Since they have managed to survive their first lesson in training with Slayers, I think they have earned a break. We will pick this up tomorrow."
*I love you Giles.*
*May the goddess praise you forever Mr. Giles.*
The Slayers smiled at each other thinking they had time to get down and dirty before Faith had to leave for work. As they started to walk towards the change room Giles shouted out; "Where do you think you're going. I said they were done for the day...not you two."
Faith put her hands on her hips and thought for a moment. "Lemme put it this way guys...B and I can spend the next twenty minutes handing you your asses on a plater or we can kept each other entertained. What's it gonna be?"
*Go Faith.* Buffy ran her hand down Faith's ass gently.
"Just don't break any more tiles please," Giles asked as he and his fellow Brit headed upstairs.
"Tiles? Huh?" Faith ran into the change room and came right back out. "Broken my ass G-Man, so a few are cracked...me bad... well actually B's bad."
"If you want me to behave, all you had to do was ask Faith." Buffy smirked as she stuck out her tongue.
"Behave? Hell no B! I love 'Bad B' even more than I love 'Good B'." Faith sent her memory of Buffy's first X-mas present to her along with her heated reaction.
"Glad you enjoyed that baby. Now about entertaining ourselves?" Buffy's breathing had become ragged and Faith didn't miss it. It kinda matched her own.
*Oh fuck me B...want you so bad.* Faith licked her suddenly dry lips and wasn't surprised to feel her girlfriends tongue enter her mouth. They staggered backwards into the change room. The witches quickly exited giggling to themselves.
"D..do y...you think they s...saw us?"
"Not a chance Tara. They only see each other. Let's go join the tea brigade."
Tara waved her hands in front of the door leading to the change room. A shield of energy appeared.
"Good idea baby. We definitely don't need to hear them." Willow linked her arm in Tara's and they went upstairs.
IN GILES KITCHEN
"I say Bre, did they think to bring the white noise generator?" Giles asked. He knew what the Slayers were up to but didn't want a repeat of the day before.
"Got it covered Giles, Tara put a silence spell on the change room." Willow smiled and hugged Tara.
"Thank you Tara...they are...they are...quite vocal."
"Bet you w...were at that age t...too Mister G...Giles."
Giles turned beet red remembering some of his earlier sexual exploits. Wes wisely stayed out of this discussion.
"Tara! You nailed Giles! Damn, wait til I tell Faith, bet she buys you some kind of plaque."
"Oh goddess, I'm s..sooooo s...sorry Mister G...Giles."
"Think nothing of it dear girl. Just don't do it again," an extremely embarrassed Giles said.
IN THE CHANGE ROOM
Faith gently laid Buffy down on the floor and striped her. Buffy was trying to get Faith's clothes off but gave up the minute her girlfriend breathed in her ear. "B...need you baby...need to know you're mine."
Responding to that smokey voice Buffy answered, "Show me I'm yours Faith...show me now."
Faith drew in a sharp deep breath, she was savoring her girlfriend's scent. It made her even more horny. But pleasing a naked blond with her legs spread came first. Faith took a quick taste of the moisture from between her girlfriend's legs.
"MMMMMM...that's the stuff of dreams." She continued teasing the little nib until it was throbbing and Buffy was begging.
"Please Faith...no more teasing."
Faith smiled ferally and went back to work. She ran her fingers through the wetness and cleaned each one off. She ducked back down and without warning, shoved her tongue as far up into the bucking blond as possible.
"Oh FUCKKKKK...FAITHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!" Buffy screamed out her orgasm.
When the brunette beauty pulled back, she licked her lips and grinned.
*My turn baby.* Buffy grabbed the dark slayer's hips, ripped her clothes off and pulled her forward until her dripping pussy lips were within reach.
*Oh yeah...go B...* Faith hurriedly put her hands on the floor above the prone blond woman's head.
Buffy's tongue immediately started lapping at the abundant wetness presented, much to Faith's delight.
"Oh yeah...B, do me...do me now!" Faith's hips ground down and all Buffy could do was suck in the drenched pussy lips, run her tongue slayspeed across the throbbing love button, and hope she could get her girlfriend off before breathing became an issue.
*Fuck, she's so good at this, it won't take long.* Faith's breathing was ragged and her hips were banging her wetness against Buffy's talented tongue.
"B..............!" Faith lifted her hips and Buffy to an almost upright position before falling back and smacking her head on the tiled floor. "OWWWWW....fucking floor hates me!"
Buffy craddled Faith for several moments while rubbing her head. She could feel the lump forming and felt guilty. "Baby, heal yourself...please."
"I think G-Man has something for headaches and some ice would help too. I don't wanna use healing unless it's absolutely necessary B. We should shower and get dressed now anyway."
UPSTAIRS IN THE KITCHEN
The slayers joined their friends. Faith immediately went to the freezer and grabbed a few icecubes and was about to put them into a ratty dishtowel when Breanna handed her a clean washcloth.
"Thanks Gran."
Wesley went into the bathroom and came back with a couple of Extra Strength Tylenol's which he handed to Faith. She took them with her coffee and then sat down. She placed the ice against the back of her head.
"Breanna, please convince her to heal herself." Buffy begged the older woman.
"Dearheart, Wee One is right. Use your power on yourself."
"But Gran, what if I need it for one of you later?"
"You can heal yourself and the sword will still have some energy left and you can always recharge it later. Now heal that lump or I'll give ye another." Breanna put her hands on her hips and just stared at Faith.
"F...Faith, will you let me help you?" Tara asked quietly.
"Don't tire yourself out Blondie, I do have a hard head ya know."
Tara came over and gently placed her hands on Faith's lump.
"Goddess, that is a nasty bump." Whispering unintelligible words Tara slowly rubbed the lump back down until it vanished entirely. "How's that Faith?"
Faith cracked her neck, shook her head and grinned. "Thanks Blondie, I feel great. Hey Red, you better take good care of this girl...hear me?"
"I will, I do...do you want me to drive you to work?"
"Actually, I forgot...I promised to bring the Harley to work and give some of the kids joy rides. So, how about dropping me back at home so I can get it?"
"Okay, lets go." Willow asked Tara to stay and help the research team to find anything useful about their upcoming Egyptian problem. Buffy, you promised to take Breanna to the Tea Shoppe, remember?"
"Yup, we will be leaving soon. Breanna, is there anything else you want to get?"
"That's all for now Wee One." The older woman smiled at the young blond woman.
Willow and Faith went to the car and she let Faith off at Buffy's house. "Hey Red, keep an eye on B for me yeah?"
"Of course Faith. Would it be okay if I drop by to see Petey later?"
"You bet, he and all the kids love you Red. You were their friend first and always will be welcome there. Actually, bring a Poloroid Camera please. You can take pictures of Kory for Spike since I won't be bringing him to visit her til we all get back from Ireland."
"Will do. See you later."
"Bye Red." Faith hopped on her Harley, and roared down the street. *This is the life.* All too soon, she pulled up in front of the Orphanage and several of the younger kids came rushing out to the porch.
"WOW...I wanna ride."
"Me first."
"Me too."
The Director came out as well. "Faith, unless you have an extra helmet...no joy rides today."
"Got it covered BossMan." She was thankful that Buffy remembered and loaned her the helmet Angel bought for her.
Petey ran over to his hero and raised his arms. Faith picked him up, placed the helmet on and tightened it. She put the small boy between her legs and started the bike. Each child that wanted a ride was taken around area for about twenty minutes each.
Anthony came over and asked if he could borrow the bike to go pick up some books that had been ordered. Faith checked his license first and then handed him the keys. "Damage it in any way and..."
"Understood." Anthony took off slowly and disappeared around the corner as Faith went inside. All the kids came over and thanked her.
"Okay guys, what do you want to do today?"
"Play video games."
"Listen to music."
"Watch tv."
"Finish my paper on Frankenstein...with your help?" Tiffany said.
Faith took the partially written paper and read through it. "Apart from spelling mistakes, this is well done. You just need a conclusion and your opinion."
"The only conclusion I can come up with is: Don't judge a person by their appearance."
"That is perfect Tiff. So what did you think of the book?"
"It's more detailed than any of the movies. It shows more what the monster was thinking and he wasn't really a monster...he just got tired of being treated like one...so when in Rome, I guess or something like that."
"Excellent. You understand it better than when you watched one of the movies."
"Thanks Faith...for everything."
"You're welcome Tiff. Now lemme go check other homework, would you and Al go get Kory for me please?"
"Sure." The teens ran upstairs and brought down the tiny blond girl.
Faith had checked everyone's homework and pronounced it all well done. "Ok guys, I'm proud of all of you. I know no one likes to do homework at anytime, but especially during holidays. So, what would you all like for lunch? Pizza? McDonalds?"
"Swiss Chalet please." David answered, and most seconded it.
Faith quickly order chicken, fries, gravey, salads and just to be sure, a couple of pizzas.
The day went quickly and she was saying goodbye and have a great New Year when Buffy showed up.
"Hey B, I need a few more minutes k?"
"No problem, where's Kory? Willow asked me to take a bunch of pictures for Spike. She is still at the university with Tara. They went to make sure they knew where their classes were and stopped to talk to the Professor."
"Chan?"
"Yes Faith," the asian boy asked as he came over.
"Where is Kory?"
"Here she is Faith," Al came over holding her hand.
"Spikey here?" The little girl was twisting her head back and forth.
"Not today sweatheart, so will you let B...Buffy take pictures of you for Spikey? I promise to bring him to see you after the New Year."
"I want a picture of Spikey!"
Buffy ran out to the car and came carrying a sketch pad and a few pencils. She handed them to Faith and started taking snapshots of boucing little girl. Buffy showed her how to blow kisses and took a picture. *Spike will love this one.*
"Thanks B." She sketched Spike leaning against the wall in the common room looking down and smiling. She used five sheets of paper in order to make it life sized. Thirty minutes later the picture was done. She showed it to Kory and suggested they put it up on her wall in her room after she pinned it to wall and had Buffy arrange Kory so that the picture made it appear like Spike was right there.
"Spikey Spikey!" Kory was dancing around showing everyone her picture of her hero. Buffy had a hard time getting her to stand still enough for Faith to get at least one not blurred shot. When Faith was finally ready to leave, all the kids wished her and her friends a happy New Year and made her promise to be back on time next week.
Outside they found Willow and Tara waiting. "Uh Faith?" Willow came forward.
"Yeah Red?"
"Ummmm, Tara wants to ask a favor but you know her, she doesn't want to intrude."
Faith walked over to Tara, "What's on yur mind Blondie?"
Tara looked at the Harley and back at Faith.
"You want to go riding with me?"
"Y...yes, c..can I?"
"Hey B, Red...We'll meet you guys back at our place." She handed Tara the extra helmet after reajusting the straps.
AT THE SUMMERS HOUSE
Willow and Buffy were laughing as they entered. Breanna came out of the kitchen. "Where's Dearheart and Tara?"
"Faith decided to take the scenic route. Tara wanted a ride on her Harley. They should be here soon." Buffy answered.
A few minutes later Buffy could hear the motorcycle and feel Faith's presence. She smiled.
"I guess by that smile, that they are close by?" Willow grinned the same grin that Buffy had.
Faith pulled into the driveway and parked beside Buffy's car. Tara got off and pulled the helmet off. "That was awesome Faith, thank y...you."
"Any time Blondie, all ya gotta do is ask. Now lets get back to our sexy girlfriends."
Neither girl was suprised when Buffy threw open the door and jumped into Faith's arms. Willow pulled her girlfriend in a passionate embrace as well.
"Girls...girls, the neighbors don't need a show. Come inside, dinner will be ready in a few minutes."
"Coming Gran."
Buffy whispered, "You will later...I promise."
When they entered they almost tripped over luggage.
"Shit, I forgot we leave tonight. Guess we better go pack a few things too B. Hey Red, are some of those bags yours and Blondie's?"
"Yes Faith, we packed this afternoon." Willow answered.
The Slayers raced upstairs and into their own rooms to pack. Faith finished first, of course and went to help Buffy.
"Geez B, we're only going for a couple of days, not a year ya know."
Buffy pouted, "But I wanna look good for you."
Faith wiggled her eyebrows, "You always look good to me B, even with clothes on."
"Faith!" Buffy swatted the dark slayer.
"DINNER IS READY." Breanna yelled.
"Okay Gran, we'll be right down." Faith hoisted Buffy's large suitcase and grabbed her knapsack. She put all the luggage into the right cars and came back in to the kitchen to help Breanna. She found Tara and Willow grabbing the plates and cutlery while Buffy was pouring juice, pop and milk for everyone. She let Faith make the tea for Breanna.
After the dinner dishes had been placed in the dishwasher, the young people were relaxing in the living room.
Faith had her thinking expression on, and Buffy thought it was so cute. "What's going on in there baby?"
"Just thinking about how much Gran does for all of us and wondering how much I should start paying her."
Breanna smacked Faith across the back of the head.
"OWWWWW, what was that for Gran?" Faith asked rubbing her head.
"Was it your intention to insult me Dearheart?"
"HUH? NO! NEVER! What did I do?" Faith looked to her friends for help...or for an explanation.
"I don't need or want your money. Cooking, cleaning and taking care of all of you is like a dream come true for me. You don't treat me like an old useless woman."
"You're not either of those things Gran."
"You a..aren't u..useless B..Breanna."
"Then there will be no more talk of paying me."
"K, Gran, I'm sorry. I just didn't want you to think we were taking advantage of your good nature."
"G'won with ye. Tis settled then and will never be mentioned again. Now then, when will..."
DING DONG
A dark uniformed man introduced himself as the driver to one of two limo's present. He asked about luggage and Faith pointed to the two vehicles. "Gramps musta done this."
The five woman got into one limo and the baggage went into the other. Soon both were arriving at the private hanger at the airport. Two different uniformed men and one woman took the luggage out of the limo and put it onboard the plane. When they boarded they found Wesley and Giles already there.
As soon as the plane lifted off and seatbelts were removed people started moving around and using their cell phones.
AT BREANNA'S HOUSE
RING RING
Angel answered his cell phone. "Hello?"
"Did ye get everything done Angel?" Breanna asked quietly while walking to the other end of the plane. She smiled when she realized it wasn't necessary. The Slayers and Witches were asleep in each arms.
"It looks beautiful Breanna, Faith will love it and so will Buffy."
"Thank ye and your friends. We will be there whenever this plane gets us there. Will there be someone there to meet us?"
"I will be there Bre. Is Faith jumping out of her skin yet?"
"Not yet, they're sleeping peacefully, as are the witches."
4 HOURS LATER
WE WILL BE LANDING IN TEN MINUTES, PLEASE FASTEN YOUR SEATBELTS.
The girls woke up, stretched and complied. When the plane landed, it taxied into a private hanger where Angel was waiting with a van. In no time flat, luggage and people were on their way to Breanna's home.
AT BREANNA'S HOUSE
"I see them coming up the road now." Spike announced. He was about to throw open the door but was stopped by Anya.
"The sun hasn't fully set Spike and will not have YOU dusting up MY clean carpet. I used my own two hands," she shook them at the vampire..."and a cantankerous machine that was probably a demon in its former life."
Xander smiled and hugged his girlfriend and motioned Spike to go into the library where they had already closed the curtains.
Faith and Angel were the first to get out of the car and they went around back to grab the luggage. Once everyone was inside along with all the bags, the door was closed and Spike came out into the foyer. "Welcome back. You have a lovely home Bre."
"Thank ye William. I would like to go for a walk, would ye accompany me?"
"If you wait a few more minutes, I would love to."
"I need to change first, please give everyone a drink and I'll be right back."
Everyone decided to get unpacked before relaxing with a drink. When they came back down, the Slayers and Witches were trying hard to return their breathing to normal. Nothing was said by anyone.
Breanna came down and hooked her arm into Spike's. "The sun has set now William. Shall we go?"
Spike nodded and took Breanna to see her completed project.
"It's wonderful William. Ye all did a fine job. Me darling Faith will love it and hope all her dreams come true there."
"Buffy would have to be an idiot to say no to Faith and she isn't...well not at the moment anyway."
Breanna slapped his arm and shook her head.
"Hey there Bre, you don't her like I do. She can be a ...how should I say this? I know...a 'bloody chit'...sometimes."
"Are ye telling me that me darling Faith hasn't been 'a chit' at times or all of ye for that matter?"
"You never did have much patience for bullshit did you Bre?"
"Nope. Never. I think Angel should take Faith for a walk, don't you?"
"Absolutely Bre." Spike didn't realize that he was staring at Breanna as she walked away.
"Is something wrong William?"
"No, I just...you're moving differently now."
"Dearheart healed all me aches and pains."
"Bloody good on her. I wondered if she would try."
"Try be damned William, she succeeded beyond my wildest dreams. Watch this." Breanna jumped up and grabbed a tree branch and just hung there for a moment before returning to the ground. She was smiling and it made her look years younger.
"Be careful Bre. That was amazing. But still, you are a 'lady' and ladies don't play in trees...or so me mother told me."
"I have been many things in my long life William, but a 'lady' never. Too prissy, can't hold their liquor, opinionated airheads. At least they were in my time. Bah! "
"I stand corrected, you ARE one hell of a woman, always have been and always will be." Spike kissed her on the cheek.
"Thank ye William, now that there be a compliment."
Both laughed as they walked back up to the house. When she joined the rest of the Sunnydale crowd in the library, she toasted the bunch: "To ye all, my extended family...welcome to my home...you're already in my heart."
"Here here."
"Cheers."
"Angel?"
The dark vampire came over. "Yes Bre, I know...show Faith what we did. Do you like it? Will she?"
"Yes, it's perfect. They both will remember it forever. Did ye place the camera where I asked?"
"Of course, and I promise when I get the tape it will be handed to you unwatched. That will be a special time for both of them and should be kept private."
"You're a good man Angel."
"I'm getting there Breanna." He turned to find Faith and was not surprised to see her with Buffy on her lap. "Sorry to interrupt this cozy setting, but Faith and I need to take care of something for Breanna."
Buffy got up. "Hurry back." She kissed Faith and whispered in her ear. "I want you."
Faith shivered and grinned, "Warp speed Captain." She saluted Buffy, grabbed Angel's hand and rushed out the front door.
"What does Gran need Angel? Where are we going?" Faith fired back rapidly.
"She needs your opinion on....this. She designed it, and we built it...for you, well and Buffy."
Faith was stunned to say the least when she saw the fancy structure.
"Gramps? That's what Gran wanted you to build? She had you do all this for me...and B?" Faith fought a hard losing battle to keep the happy tears from falling.
"Will it do?"
Faith grabbed Angel and just about hugged the undead life outta him. "It's like a dream come true, now she just has to ..."
"She will say yes Faith, you know she will."
"But what if...?" Faith's nervousness was apparent.
"But nothing, relax GD. You love each other and you both are certain that you want to spend your lives together...so don't sweat it." Angel smiled at his nervous family member.
Willow stepped out into the open, "Hey guys."
"Red! Did you know about this?"
"Nope. Buffy will love it. I knew you were a romantic at heart Faith."
"See you both back at the house." Angel's vampiric senses picked up on what Willow was carrying behind her back.
Faith sniffed and gave Willow a look. The redhead handed Faith a bag of excellent dope and a pack of zig zags. "Herbal Therapy from Doctor Red."
Faith laughed, "Herbal Therapy huh? Gotta like it...Dr Red." The dark Slayer rolled up a cannon and lit it. She handed it to Willow and put the rest in her back pocket.
*Why not?* She took several tokes and choked. Her coughing spell went on long enough for Faith to finish half of the doobie. "You gonna live Red?"
When Willow looked at Faith, her eyeballs were still rolling and when Faith saw the silly assed grin on the witch's face, she lost it. "HE HE HE, Red you're buzzed."
"No shit Faith, Tara's gonna kill me. But for now, this is pretty wild. Those trees keep saying hello. Helloooo trees. I'm a tree too sorta...kinda...what was I saying?"
"Trees...gotcha Red." Faith giggled and Willow couldn't help herself, so did she. *Red's hilarious when stoned.*
"I better head back to the house Faith...uh Faith, where did the house go?" Willow was swaying a bit.
"It went thata way, you can head it off at the pass." Faith cracked up.
"FAITHHHHH!" Willow whined.
"Little Bo Willow has lost her house and doesn't know where to find it."
Willow tried her very best to concentrate. Faith felt herself lift off the ground and head towards the stream. *OH SHIT!!*
"Red? The house...I'll take ya back if I'm still dry."
THUD
Faith found herself right beside the stream...on her ass. She quickly took Willow by the arm and led her back to the path that led to the house. *Tara's not gonna kill her, she's gonna kill me.*
Willow was now able to think a little clearer. "That is some wicked stuff, I'll have to remember where I got it. I think I can make it back now Faith. Finish the joint or roll another for yourself. Enjoy, but I'm okay."
"You sure Red?"
"Yeah, go ahead. I'll send Buffy out to join you. Remember tomorrow night's proposol is still a secret, so clam up."
"Proposol...shit, I forgot the ring...fuck me, I'm such an idiot. What am I gonna do? Can you alakazam it to me?"
"Calm down Faith, you gave the ring to Breanna to take care of until needed. I know she brought it."
Faith released the breath she didn't realize she was holding.
"Thinking I definitely lost ma buzz, and need another doobie."
Willow walked up the walkway and sent Buffy to join Faith. The blonde slayer could smell the dope and followed it right to Faith. "There's my little 'potmunkey'."
*Potmunkey?* Faith grabbed Buffy by the shoulders and put her up against a tree and shotgunned her into oblivion. When the cloud of smoke cleared, Buffy was swaying and grinning. "So not fair. Uhhhh...Faith." She licked her dry lips and was pulled in for a very passionate kiss by her girlfriend.
"MMMMMM," Buffy started singing: "I got hi...igh hopes, I got hi...igh hopes."
Faith giggled and answered: "Me too B, you have no idea how high my hopes are right now." She rolled another doobie and handed it to Buffy. Buffy noded her head thinking why not. She lit it up and coughed for a moment then took another toke before handing it to Faith.
*Yay B, you go girl.* Faith took a few tokes and together they finished off the doobie before walking back to the house.
"So Faithy...you gonna tell me what's going on now?"
"Nope."
"FAITH!!!!" Buffy pouted and since she was wasted, it was even funnier than usual. At least Faith thought so and started laughing.
"What was I saying?" Buffy wondered.
"Beats me B, I could sure use a drink, I'm thirsty...aren't you?"
"Drink...yeah."
As the Slayers wandered into the library and over to the bar. Both Angel and Spike sniffed and smiled at each other and the happily stoned Slayers. Spike sauntered over to Willow and looked at her, the Slayers and back at her again. "You do good work."
Willow blushed and Tara giggled.
10 P.M.
Angel quietly asked Faith if she wanted to patrol the estate grounds with him and Spike.
"I think the 'Triad of Trouble' should take the north end and Spike, Buffy and Tara can take the south end."
"Sounds like a plan to me." Angel walked over to the Watchers, Anya and Xander. "Will you guys keep an eye of everyone here til we all get back?"
"Of course Angel, have no fear. I assure you, although we don't have vampire, slayer or witch powers, we can fight...and scream very loud if necessary." Wesley smiled at the dark vampire. "Do be careful...all of you," Giles added.
The two groups left to head for their assigned areas to patrol.
Faith was lost in thought and ran into Willow's back. Willow snapped her fingers in Faith's face. "Hello...anybody in there?"
"HUH? Sorry Red, was thinking."
"About...?"
"You know B better than anyone right?"
"I guess so...why?"
"Do you think she will...will say yes tomorrow night?"
"I know for a fact she will Faith."
"How do you know? Did she say something...anything? Help me out here Red."
"You promise to protect me from becoming Slayer Splat, cause that's what Buffy will do to me for telling you."
"Talk Red!"
"I had to stop her from getting you a ring the same day you bought one for her."
"Really?!? She does wanna be with me forever? Fuck me, I'm the luckiest woman in the world." Faith's smile would have lit up an entire blacked out city.
Angel and Willow just smiled at the happy Slayer until the vamp and Slayer stiffened and went into fighting position. "Red! shield yourself now!"
A tall blonde vampire came out of the woods with his hands held above his head. "I just want to talk. I haven't fed off humans for over three centuries."
"Whadda ya wanna talk about?" Faith still held the stake, ready to dust him.
The tall vamp stared at Angel and nodded. "I remember you... Liam. I sense a soul within you now."
"Who are you?" Angel demanded to know.
"I have been your family's protector whenever possible for the last three centuries. And before you ask, I could not interfere the night you all came face to face with your destiny. I was present on the outside of the hotspot that night." He turned to Faith. "You are the "Healer?"
"Yes...why?"
"There are many families that live and work on this estate and Timothy, he's four years old, has a fever. It has been ravaging him for almost a week now. Will you try to help him?"
"Led the way, but if this is a trap...yur gonna get hooverized."
"It's not a trap, I promise. Would the witch come too.... please?" The vampire can continue to look around.
"Come on Red, if there really is a sick kid..."
The older vampire led the girls to a small cottage. He pulled out a whistle and blew it. The door opened to show a tired woman and several young children. "Maisey, I brought help for Tim."
"What can they do?"
"Well the dark haired woman is the "HEALER" of legend and her friend is a Wicca trained in the healing arts."
The woman looked deeply into the girls eyes and sighed. "I can't pay ye much."
"We don't want your money M'am, can we see your son?" Faith asked calmly.
She led them into the back room. It smelled of disinfectant and body waste. Willow wrinkled her nose and spoke a spell. The bad odors vanished and the linen was clean and dry. "Your turn Faith."
Faith leaned down and smiled at the feverish young boy. "Hi sweatheart." She placed her hands on his head and concentrated. The silver sliver glowed brightly as she gently rubbed the small boy's temples. When she finished, he looked up at her with clear eyes and hugged her.
The mother breathed a sigh of relief upon seeing her son get up and run into her arms. "Thank ye...thank ye."
"No problem M'am. Thanks for letting us help. He will be okay now. But I suggest you take him to get a Tetnus shot soon. He has a cut on his arm, I healed it too, but I think that he might have been swimming in the pond and some nasty shit got in."
The woman looked at her son, her feet and shook her head. "I canna afford it."
"Red, call Gran and get Pop's number."
Willow got the number from Breanna and dialed it.
"Hello?"
"Hi Brian, Faith needs to speak to you."
Faith took the cell phone. "Hi Pop, I need you to call the local doctor dude around here. I want him to check out every man, woman and child on your mom's estate. Top of the list is Timothy..." The woman supplied the last name. "O'Grady." He needs a tetnus shot asap. I took care of his fever and healed the cut on his arm."
"Maisey's son Tim?"
"Yes, hang on." Faith handed the phone to her.
"Hello Dr. Brian."
"Hi Maisey. How long was Tim sick before Faith and her friends got to him?"
"For about a week."
"Why didn't you call me?"
"Didn't want to bother you Sir."
"Nonsense! Tis no bother at t'all. May I speak to Faith again please."
She handed the phone back to Faith.
"So Pop are you gonna call the doctor and arrange for everyone to be checked out?"
"It will be done. I should be home myself later this evening. You didn't think I would miss your big day now did ye?"
"I love you Pop."
"Love you too Faith and I will see you all later."
"Wait, Gran gave you room to some friends. Where will you sleep?"
"The couch in the library pulls out into a very comfortable bed. I used to use it all the time after late night study sessions with Philip. Not to worry."
"I thought of way to prevent this kinda thing from happening again. Do you think Gran would let me put in a couple of real swimming pools, complete with lifeguards of course?"
"I don't see why not. Tis a nice thing ye be doing for these people."
"A real pool?" Timothy's eyes widened.
"Yup, but it can't happen til spring or early summer. Would you like to help?"
"How?"
"Well, I want you to tell your friends not to swim in the ponds around here. Remind them how sick you were. And then tell them that real pools will be put in and there will be no charge for anyone on this estate...kids and adults."
A teenage girl came downstairs and walked over to Faith. "I took the lifeguard test last summer. I try to keep an eye on the rugrats, but there are too many. Will ye let me work for you when the pools are finished?"
"Absolutely. And check with your friends, anyone wanting to take the lifeguard course...I will..." Willow cut her off.
"Let me pay for the courses, you're paying for the pool itself. I can also make arrangements to pay the lifeguards."
Faith stiffened for a minute and smiled. "Gramps, come here."
"I know you heard most of the conversation, so how many pools should be built so that everyone can enjoy swimming?"
"I would say put one in each of the corners of the property and one super large one in the middle. I will of course split the cost...no arguements GD."
RING RING
Angel answered his cell. "Hello?"
"Relax Buffy, she's fine. She healed a little boy and we were just making arrangements to make sure something like that doesn't happen again. We'll see you all back up at the house soon."
Faith was grinning like an idiot. *B is worried about me, no one ever worried about me before...I kinda like it.*
SNAP SNAP Willow snapped her fingers in front of Faith. "Come back."
Faith stuck her tongue out at the playful witch.
"Excuse me, but what is your name?" Faith asked the teen.
"Kathleen...why?"
"Well Kathleen, since there is going to be five pools and each needs eight lifeguards to rotate...I was thinking you might wanna get all your friends to take the same courses you did. I know beginner lifeguards get ten dollars per hour. Two hours on, two off, two on and two off. Each will be paid for the full eight hours. Think they'll be interested?"
"TEN DOLLARS AN HOUR? Who do we have to kill...or sleep with?"
Faith burst out laughing. "I like you kid. Trust me, that's average pay."
"Not here it ain't...uh isn't. That rotton SOB..."
"Kathleen! That's no way to talk about our employer."
"But Mom, you know he is pocketing most of the money the great lady from the big house gives us for working. Five dollars an hour...that thief."
"Hang on...that bastard is stealing from you?" Faith growled loudly and fire was almost coming out her flared nostrils.
"Easy Faith," Willow tried calm her friend down.
"FUCK THAT! He will be sorry. Gimme your phone, I left my at the house."
RING RING
Breanna answered. "Hello?"
"Gran, I need to know how much you pay your workers here on the estate."
"It depends on what they do. Average is ten dollars an hour and more for difficult jobs. Why Dearheart?"
"Your fucking grandson has been pocketing half or better from all the workers. They are only being paid about five bucks per hour. That's part of the reason they are sick, hungry and angry. Mrs O'Grady's son was sick and she couldn't afford the proper medicine. I..well, Red and me took care of Tim. He's fine now."
"Please put the phone on speaker."
Faith did so.
"Hello Mrs. O'Grady, why didn't ye tell me my worthless grandson was stealing from you and everyone else."
"He threatened to throw us out completely and most of us have no where to go M'am."
Breanna could hear Faith growling again.
"Dearheart, he will be dealt with. Ye have my word. Can ye find out just how much is owed to everyone. I want to settle up before we go back. I will hire someone to keep track and see to it that the correct monies are paid, and medical and dental services are in place."
"Wanna hurt him...hurt him bad...real bad," Faith groused.
"Understandble Dearheart, come back to the house now. We will set things in motion to make things better. Mrs O'Grady, you used to keep the books for my late husband...would ye be willing to keep track of everyone's hours and see to it that they are paid properly and on time?"
"You want me to work for you?"
"Yes."
"Thank you, you won't be disappointed, you'll see."
"I know that. Tomorrow, go get all the supplies ye will need from Clem's Dry Goods Store. He will be expecting you. An account will be set up and paid at the end of each month. I belive some of me darling Faith's friends would go with ye to help."
"Count me in Gran."
"Me too Breanna."
"I'll run around and make a list of what is owed to who and see what these families need most." Angel offered.
"I should have known about this. Please offer my apologies to everyone and ask all to come to the house tomorrow for the party. Hold on for a minute."
Breanna went over to Xander. "Can ye add frame work to extend the back pantry for me Alexander?"
"Sure thing Breanna. There is some wood left over, but I will need more. Can I ask why?"
"Well dear boy, it seems that we will have a house full for the party. All estate workers who wish to come will be invited."
"Faith really is lucky to have a grandmother like you. I'll go check out what I need and call your friend...if that's okay?"
"Do whatever needs to be done. Hire as many people as you need. I think maybe the witches could help as well. Two strong Slayers can do alot of work too. I just want everyone to feel welcome and to have a good time."
"Yes M'am."
"Ye truly are a great lady Mrs Liam." Mrs O'Grady said softly.
"Ye get the word out. Tell everyone to come up to the house around ten o'clock. All are welcome."
Once all arrangement had been made, the 'Triad of Trouble' headed back to the main house.
AT THE MAIN HOUSE
As soon as Angel entered he was collared by Xander and Spike. Faith was of course greeted properly by her anxious girlfriend, as was Willow.
"Anya?"
"Yes Breanna?"
"Will ye make a list of food and beverages that will be needed for about a hundred people. I will rent a van for you. Do ye drive?"
"Yes, but I don't know where to go to get everything. A lot has changed in a century."
Breanna smiled at the former demon. "Everything ye need is in town. There be only one road." Breanna looked around and finally saw Buffy. "Wee One?"
"Yes Breanna?"
"Will ye help Anya bring in supplies tomorrow. The boys will be busy building. Me darling Faith and the witches will be helping them and Angel needs to make the rounds of me workers to start to set things right for them. William and I will do a thorough cleaning and he will move furniture, won't ye William?"
"Anything for you Bre."
"Sure, I love shopping. Anya, what time do you want to get started tomorrow?"
"After breakfast, whatever time that will be."
"Considering how tired ye all be, I think that breakfast can be at nine or there about. Do any of ye need something special?"
Everyone shook their heads.
"Uhhh...F...Faith?"
"Yeah Blondie?"
"In all the rush, you forgot about Athie and Aphro. I can teleport back to your house to feed them if you like."
"Oh fuck. Blondie, yur a lifesaver...ya know that right?"
"It's n...not a b..big deal Faith."
"You can teleport baby?" Willow asked with wide open eyes.
"Yes...it was g...gift f...from the Powers that Be."
"Ye could bring them here, but they would need to be kept in the Slayers bedroom and the door would have to be kept closed. They might get stepped on."
Tara concentrated and vanished. She was back in minutes holding to scrapping kittens. Faith and Buffy came over immediately and took their pets.
"Thank you Blondie."
"Thanks Tara. OWWWW!"
"Hey Athie, I told you not to damage ma girlfriend."
Tara vanished again and when she reappeared she had the litter box and several cans of wet cat food. Faith and Buffy took the kittens and stuff up to their room. Faith pulled out the bottom drawer and set in on the ground. She put a thick bathtowel in it and set the kittens in their new bed. Both started purring and fell asleep. Faith put the litter box under the window sill.
Buffy was looking at the bed and at Faith. She licked her lips. *Soon she will be mine...just not soon enough.*
"I promise to rock your world in a little while B." Faith didn't miss Buffy's scent.
"We should get back downstairs...before I throw you on the bed and..." Buffy said in a husky voice.
Faith shivered. *Down girl...soon. But I want her now!*
The girls came back downstairs and into the library. They saw that Angel and Spike were handing out assignments for the following day.
"I hope ye all don't think I brought ye here just to work?"
"Perish the thought Breanna, we want to help." Giles responded.
"Wesley, would ye go to town tomorrow with Kathleen and her mother to get supplies?"
"Of course dear lady, it would be my pleasure."
"Gran?"
"Yes Dearheart?"
"I was kinda thinking..."
"Do tell."
"Well since Kathleen and her mother will be responsible for overseeing that everything is done right from now on...and you are coming back with us..."
"Spit it out Dearheart."
"Well, why don't you add housesitting to their duties. You know, someone here to watch over things. I mean there is a lot of room and everyone else will need somewhere to come to. To get their paycheques, to give lists of stuff to be ordered..."
"That's a wonderful idea Dearheart. I should have thought of that."
"Just one thing Gran."
"What's that?"
"Your asshole grandson. He will get out of jail in a month...then what happens to him?"
"Well, I will bring charges against him for the theft of my workers money. He will stay in jail or find somewhere else to live. I love Brian, but his son..."
Everyone had their assignments for the following day and decided to hit the sack early. Not all were tired of course.
IN FAITH AND BUFFY'S ROOM
Faith striped off her clothes and went to take a shower. She knew Buffy would join her soon enough. Her mind wandered to what she knew would be the most important night of her life.
Consequently she was unaware when Buffy ran her fingers up the inside of her legs, she jumped and smacked her head on the shower apparatus. "FUCKKKKKK! B whatcha got against my head?" Faith asked while frowning and rubbing her head.
"I'm so sorry Faith. I thought you sensed me coming. Want me to kiss it better?"
~Want you to kiss me all over, but head is a good place to start though.~
~My poor Faith, getting lumped whenever we...uhhh.~ Buffy giggled and soon realized that was the wrong reaction.
Faith pouted, rubbed her head and walked out of the shower.
"Faith...I'm sorry...really I am." Buffy ran after her.
"You enjoy hurting me don't you B?" Faith said under her breath. But Buffy heard her.
"WHAT????? No, I don't ever want to hurt you and I wouldn't, not on purpose. It was an accident Faith. What can I do to convince you? I love you."
Buffy was close to crying and Faith felt like shit. "B, I'm the one who is sorry. I just...my head hurts and I'm a bitch when I'm in pain. Please forgive me."
Buffy ran over to the closet and brought Faith her special sword in its box.
Faith sighed deeply, then took out the sword. She recharged and put it back. Buffy raised her hand to the newly gained lump and rubbed it using Faith's hand. She saw the silver glint in her girlfriends eyes and prayed it wouldn't take a lot of energy to heal.
"Do you just want to go to sleep Faith?" Buffy started chewing on her bottom lip.
"Not before my kiss goodnight and snuggles." Faith smiled a geniune smile and Buffy breathed easier. *She's not mad...yipee.* She pulled back the covers and let Faith chose her side before getting in herself. She reached out tentatively to stroke the dark girl's cheek. When Faith leaned into the touch and moved closer, Buffy swore to herself to be more careful with Faith. Their kiss was soft and tender, but no less passionate than most. Faith wrapped her arms around her lover and sqeezed gently. "Night B, we have a busy day tomorrow."
"Night baby, whatever you need done...I'll do. I love you."
"Love you too B."
IN THE WITCHES ROOM
Tara sat on the left side of the bed, waiting for Willow to get out of the shower. She appreciated the fact that Willow wasn't pushing the physical side of their relationship. She knew she wanted Willow, but also knew she just wasn't ready.
"Hey baby, are you okay?" Willow came out of the bathroom rubbing her hair in a towel.
"F...fine."
Tara grabbed the brush and gave the redhead's hair the usual two hundred strokes and it was almost dry when she finished. Willow had almost fallen asleep in Tara's arms. *I told Buffy to go slow with Faith, I should be able to take my own advice.*
Willow got up slowly and held out her hand. Tara rolled back the blankets and both got in and covered themselves. Willow looked into the blond woman's eyes and seeing permission, she pulled her into her arms. "Night Tara."
"Night Willow."
DOWNSTAIRS
Brian Liam came in, surprised to see most of the lights out and it was only a little after ten. His mother came out of the library and handed him a stiff drink. He followed her back and waited for her to speak. When informed of the upcoming proposol, he was ecstatic. "Is she really happy mom? Is Buffy good enough for our Faith?"
"She is and yes I believe so. Wee One obviously loves our Faith and it shows every time she looks at her. They love as hard as they fight. The forces of darkness haven't got a chance against them...and their friends. Ye know William and Angel are vampires, Willow and Tara are witches and Anya is a former vengence demon that lived around here a century ago. The power and compassion in that little group of young people is amazing. Rupert and Wesley certainly have their hands full at times. And now, even I am a useful member of their team. So much has happened in less than a week."
"You are always useful to anyone who needs anything mother. It's one of the things I love best about you."
"We need to talk..."
"I know mother, he is not welcome here any longer. Being a good son, a good doctor...doesn't make one a good parent. How did I fail him?"
"Ye did nothing wrong Brian. The boy...just has a mean and lazy streak. Tis not your fault. He had every advantage and wasted them all. I am sorry, but I wash my hands of him."
"I can't do that."
"I know. Do what you have to. Your father's old cabin..."
"Thank you mother. It will at least be a roof over his head. I'll tell him next when I go see him...in a few days."
"Get some sleep before ye keel over."
"You too mother. Good night." Brian kissed his mother on the cheek.
"Brian, I forgot to tell ye, I gave your room to Alexander and Anya. Would ye mind terribly sleeping in here?"
"Not a problem."
"See you in the morning then."
NEXT MORNING
When Buffy rolled over, she woke up quickly when she realized she was alone in bed. The shower was silent. *Where's Faith?*
The older slayer took the quickest shower on record and dressed equally as fast. She flew down the stairs and suddenly she sensed Faith. She walked into the kitchen and found Faith and Breanna preparing breakfast for everyone.
"Morning B," Faith said cheerfully.
"Don't like waking up alone baby." Buffy pouted.
"Wee One, why don't ye help me darling Faith with the bacon."
"Okay Breanna."
A few minutes later, they all heard what sounded like a herd of elephants. Willow stuck her head in and asked if they needed any help.
"Ye can start taking in plates and silverware Witchling."
"Got it Breanna." Willow stopped and counted in her head, *Breanna, Brian, Buffy, Faith, Xander, Anya, Giles, Wesley, Spike, Angel, Tara and me, goddess there's a dozen of us!* She counted out the right number of plates and carried them into the dining room. Everyone else was helping themselves to coffee or tea.
Faith, Breanna and Buffy carried in large platters full of bacon, eggs, pancakes and waffles.
"I wanna live here," Xander said with his mouth watering.
"Gran's gonna move in permanently with me and B Xander."
"Lucky you."
Wesley raised his cup of tea in the air and said: "Here's to our hostess Breanna."
"Here, here."
"Breanna rules."
"Gran is the best."
"Mom is the best."
Everyone saluted Breanna, who quite naturally blushed and shushed them all with her patented "G'Won with y'all."
After the breakfast dishes had been cleared by Buffy, Anya and Tara. Anya and Buffy left to get what was on their list. Xander called to confirm his order and he and Brian went to pick up the building materials. Willow and Tara went into the kitchen to start on the dishes. Breanna made a list of furniture to be moved by Spike, Giles and Wesley. Angel went out to talk to workers and make his list of what was owed. He knew he would be going to the bank immediately afterwards and wanted to get going. Once her had a complete list, Angel went to the bank and asked for the manager. They called Breanna and authorized payments to be made to all her employees. Angel asked for and received cash and a pile of envelopes. He put the correct amount and a name was written on the envelope. He took them back and delivered them to all the workers.
IN THE HOUSE
Faith saw Wes and Giles starting to move a couch. "Wait for me to get back and I'll help move the heavy stuff. I just wanna check on Timothy k?"
"Do hurry back Faith." Wes was already breathing hard.
"Spike, give them a hand please."
The blonde vampire came over and easily lifted one end of the couch while suggesting that Wes help Giles with his end.
1 P.M.
Angel came back into the house carrying several large bags from Burger King. "LUNCH IS SERVED!"
People came running from every room in the the house. Faith yelled over her shoulder, "Save a couple with no veggie's on em. She was getting impatient with being put on hold, and an impatient slayer is not a good thing. Finally, she arranged for a delivery of anti-biotics to the free clinic closest to the estate. She came to the table still muttering and cursing.
"What's wrong baby?" Buffy came over and offered the dark girl an onion ring.
Grabbing an onion ring and thinking for a moment before speaking, she finally shouted out: "BUREAUCRACY SUCKS!"
"Now Faith, that's not necessarily true..." Anya started to say before being kissed/censured by Xander. "Now is not the time dear."
The rest of the day passed in a blur of building, cleaning, moving and stocking. Spike walked over to Breanna and asked her for the best bottle of champagne that she had. He explained he would put it in the stream beside the fancy they had built.
"Could put a note in the glasses, "Look in the stream"."
"Excellent idea William, but I should think you would want to stay indoors during the daytime." Breanna said reasonably.
"Bre dear, the sun went down a few minutes ago. It is almost seven."
"Bloody hell, where did the day go? There is so much to clean up now."
"Relax Bre, I think the witches might be persauded to lend a hand."
"If it be the same hand that cleaned up after the 'food fight', it would be welcome indeed."
Spike laughed. "Most fun I'd had in decades, that was."
"Me too William, but don't tell the girls. I am after all supposed to be setting an good example." She couldn't keep her face straight.
"I believe you to be an excellent example for these Bloody Colonials." Giles said with a smile.
Wesley walked up and quickly agreed. "Although I think Faith has made an amazing turnaround all on her own. She seems to have finally found some kind of inner peace. Her empathy for people now that she is a healer shows a whole new side of her. As does her beautiful artwork. I may not like her first impression of me, but I do know talent when I see it."
"Yes, she has many no longer hidden talents. You all have seen the symatry between them when they spar. The majority of her new found abilities are tied to healing, although some are a distance away from the original intent. Her intuition is rock solid...when she allows herself to trust herself." Giles added.
"Always said you blokes gave her a rough time from the get go." Spike said truthfully.
"Come with me William and I'll get ye the perfect bottle for the girls." She hooked her arm in Spikes and went through the kitchen and down to the wine cellar. She handed him a bottle of Dom Perion 1983. The year me darling Faith was born. Spike pulled out one with a label reading 1982. "One for the other Slayer too Bre?"
"Why not. It's not like we will likely see them til the next day once Faith takes Buffy away from the party to propose."
Spike kissed the old woman on the cheek. Once back in the kitchen, she handed him two flute glasses, two pieces of paper and a pen. He smiled, wrote 'Look in' on one note and put it in one glass. Then he wrote 'The stream' on the it and put it in the other glass. Breanna put a large bowl of strawberries and another bowl full of fresh whipped cream in a picnic basket and handed it the blond vampire. She pointed to folded blanket on the bench and he picked that up too before leaving to deliver it all.
8 P.M.
Everything had been cleaned up, the extension looked beautiful, and everyone had headed to their rooms to shower and change for the party.
Buffy found a box on the bed with the note, "Open me" attached. She smiled and wondered what Faith had bought her this time. *I really should stop her from buying me so many things...* Buffy opened it and found a lined pair of black leather pants, dark green silk shirt and another note saying: "Look in the closet". Buffy checked and found a beautiful fur lined leather jacket, black of course. She felt Faith enter the room and she smiled.
She ran straight into her arms and wrapped her legs around her gorgeous girlfriend. "Faith, they're beautiful...but how did you hide them from me?"
"Had Breanna bring em," Faith smirked at the blond.
Buffy noticed that Faith had on an almost identical outfit, except her blouse was copper coloured and made her eyes sparkle.
"Hey you're already dressed!" Buffy whined. She wanted her slayer in the shower.
"Like either of us would get out of the shower anytime soon if we were together?"
"You say that like it's a bad thing Faith." Buffy said seductively.
"No! not bad...not bad...just bad timing. Please B, just humor me for now. Get showered and changed. I wanna show off my beautiful girlfriend ya know?" Faith kissed Buffy softly and backed away.
"Buffy snorted and pouted for a minute then agreed. She walked into the bathroom and Faith handed her the new clothes. Come out stunning for me baby."
Faith closed the door and sat down on the bed. She breathed a sigh of relief. *Christ, I must be stupid not to be in there with her. I mean people aren't arriving for a little while longer...maybe I can...* Her musings were cut short when Buffy walked out fully dressed. She had let her long blond hair fall freely down her back.
Faith just stared at the lovely vision before blurting out: "Will you..." She slapped her hands over her mouth and bit her lower lip. *You idiot, you almost blew it.*
"Will I what Faith?"
"Uhhhh," Faith knew she had to think fast. "Will you...uh, just hold me in your arms for a minute B?"
Buffy smiled and held out her arms. Faith rushed right in, putting her arms losely around Buffy's lower back. Buffy moved in so close that a sheet of paper couldn't have fit in between them. "I love the feel of you in my arms Faith. When you let me hold you, it's like a precious gift from you baby."
Faith leaned her head back and looked deeply into truth filled eyes. *She IS the ONE.* "I love you so much B."
"I know, I can hear it in your sexy voice, see it in your gorgeous eyes, feel it through our bond. Can you feel my love for you?"
Faith nodded dumbly. She really could feel Buffy's love, like it was warm and alive. It enveloped her, and it make her soul sing.
"I...I can B...it's overwhelming, it's...you...always has been and always will be...my B."
"My Faith, you do that to me too baby. So we should go downstairs or I won't be held responsible for my actions...and I wouldn't be sorry and neither would you." She wiggled her eyebrows before releasing her girlfriend and settling for holding her hand as they came downstairs.
Faith swore to herself that she would not let nerves ruin this night...her night...their night. A little boy came running over to Faith and handed her a small flower.
"Thank you Timothy. How do you feel?"
"Fine. Can I have a cookie now? Mom said I had to wait for you."
Faith and Buffy both laughed and letting go of each others hands, grabbed one of his and took him over to the 'goodie' table. "Go nuts Tim."
Breanna came over to the girls, "I need to borrow Dearheart for a few minutes. I promise to bring her right back."
"Clock is ticking," Buffy replied.
Breanna laughed and walked away with Faith. She explained that Faith would find a basket with fruit and cream, a warm blanket and the ring. She deliberately said nothing about the champagne.
In the meantime Buffy had walked over to speak to Brian. "Would you keep calling Faith and encouraging her with her healing powers?"
"Of course I will...Wee One." He laughed and Buffy scowled.
"Look here Doc, only your mom can call me that...understand?" Each word was punctuated with a finger bouncing off his chest.
"Got it Buffy." Brian figured discretion was the better part of honor. Truth be told, he didn't want to piss off a slayer and one his 'daughter' loved. *Wouldn't put money on me chances if both Slayers decided to kick me ass.*
11 P.M.
Music started up and most people grabbed the closest person and began dancing. Brian knew enough to dance Buffy straight over to Faith. Wesley handed off Faith to Buffy and stood back smiling. The slayers found each others rhythm immediately. Their sensual swaying caused many to look away and smile.
Faith kept looking at her watch and finally Buffy said, "Don't worry baby...we'll know when it's midnight."
"Got something very important to do before that B."
"What?"
"Do you trust me B?"
"Of course...why?"
Faith pulled out a blind fold. "I need you to take a walk with me...please?"
"Okay, lemme go get our coats." Buffy rushed upstairs, past strangers laughing and joking. She came back with her coat on and handed Faith's hers.
Spike noticed the Slayers getting ready to leave and motioned Breanna. She saw and smiled.
OUTSIDE
Faith put the blindfold on Buffy and led her to little building. "You can take the blindfold off now B."
She stepped up and leaned back down to pick Buffy up into her arms.
"Faith, it's beautiful. The lights, even little roses, in winter...how...how did you...?"
"I have mad skills baby, told ya that." Faith was used to their banter and found it easier than speaking her heart and mind.
"Don't I know it." Buffy kissed the dark girl as they entered the little structure. Faith set Buffy down and laid out the thick blanket. Stay right there B...don't move. Taking her coat off, she pulled the basket out from under the bench that went all the way around. She checked and found the ring. She licked her lips and looked up at the still standing Buffy. *God I want this so fucking much, why can't I speak?*
Buffy could see and feel the nervous waves coming off of Faith. She knew better than to question...at least for now.
Faith quickly put the ring behind her back and took a deep breath.
Buffy was about to ask what she had hidden when Faith pulled it out and opened it. She got up onto one knee; "B...Buffy will you let me spend the rest of my life with you?"
Buffy's eyes popped wide open, her heart filled with joy.
"YES! Faith, I'll marry you and spend the rest of my life making you happy." Buffy pulled the ring out of the box and let Faith put it on the fourth finger of the left hand.
Faith let out the breath she didn't know she was holding. Her brain was telling her: *She said yes...she said yes.*
Faith's ear to ear grin was matched by Buffy. Both girls came together in a long passionate kiss. Faith pulled Buffy down to the blanket and unzipped her coat. "Is it too cold...for...?"
"Cold? Your kidding right Faith. God baby, I'm so hot..." Buffy moaned as Faith gave a little love nip on her now bare shoulder. They heard but ignored the loud yell from up at the house. The ten second count down to the New Year had begun.
BACK AT THE PARTY
Giles and the rest of the Sunnydale crew were having a great time. The workers, and their families, were all smiling, happy to be included and happier still that most of their grievences were being taken care of.
Willow and Breanna looked at the clock and shouted together: "TEN, NINE, EIGHT, SEVEN, SIX, FIVE, FOUR, THREE, TWO, ONE...HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE!!!!!! Horns blared, noisemakers were blown and a great roar went up.
A multitude of voices, in different languages, all sang together. "Should Auld Acquaintance Be Forgotten...." Glasses were clinked, some were broke, but the radiating happiness in the whole house was felt by all.
Xander wandered over to Willow and kissed her on the cheek. "Happy New Year Wil. Hey where's Faith and Buffy? I haven't seen them in a long time?"
AT THE GAZEBO
Buffy and Faith wasted no time in ridding themselves of their clothes. The cool air caused goosebumps that only enlarged when the girls lay skin to skin. Faith looked down at a squirming Buffy and whispered; "It's always gonna feel this good B, always."
"Or better," Buffy corrected before being silenced by a kiss passionate enough to shut down higher thought processes. In seconds her lover, from skin to skin contact alone, had the blond becoming a writhering mass of absolute need and desire. The intensity of her girlfriend's needs almost overwhelmed her.
Faith swore, "Holy fuck B..." Faith started a slow rubbing and swaying motion up and the down the full length of Buffy's body.
"Oh god...Faith...you feel so good...so wet."
"For you B." Faith sliped one hand down between them and tickled the skin between the belly button and the moist southern lips.
Buffy bucked like a well trained bronc and Faith held on tight. "No more teasing...please Faith, make love to me."
Green eyes met brown as Faith felt herself being drawn into Buffy. As she leaned down to kiss the 'two gun salute' presented to her, her fingers found a wet haven...a very wet haven. She slide two in quickly and tagged the happy spot. She never even saw the two small hands whip out and around her neck. Next thing she knew she was losing the tongue dominance war. She startled her fellow slayer by gently biting down on the tip of Buffy's tongue and then sucking it into her demanding mouth when the girl's tongue stopped fighting. Her fingers were moving in and out slowly, but tagging the g-spot each time before pulling almost all the way out.
"No one ever, oh fuck baby, made me feel this way. FAITH! I'm gonna cummm."
*No shit.* "Let go B, I'm here...gimme ma reward." When Buffy came, she gushed.
Faith thought she was drowning for a second, before swallowing all of Buffy's offering. When Buffy finally fell back, Faith looked up from her position between Buffy's legs. Her face was glistening as she wipped it all off with her fingers and then sat back and sucked on those digits.
A few minutes later, when Buffy could breath and talk at the same time. "Wanna taste you too, lay back." Buffy grabbed her coat, turned it inside out and put it down as a pillow for Faith. "No lumps...see." Buffy beamed at befuddled dark girl.
Faith lay back and spread her legs, anticipating her girlfriend.
Buffy gripped both nipples and twisted slightly, enough to garner a deep throated moan from Faith. "B...please, tease later...love me now."
Buffy fell forward and claimed the lips she had been dreaming about for years. As she did so, she pushed three fingers into a very wet channel. Using her thumb to rub slayer speed over an already engorged clit, Buffy had Faith whimpering, bucking, praying, and squirming. In a surprising move, she pushed in a four finger and then the thumb. She stopped, waiting to see if she should continue.
Faith felt herself expand, "Fuck me Buffy, use your fist."
Relieved that she hadn't hurt the brunette, Buffy slowing began moving her fist in the tight hole. When she pulled back, the suction sound was almost her undoing.
Faith surged forward, she wanted that fullness again. Buffy felt her lips being crushed by Faith. She was swinging in the whirlwind of desire and loving it, almost as much as Faith.
"YEAH B...FUCK MEEEEE!!!!"
Faith was riding Buffy's hand hard and fast. *This is gonna be intense.* Faith never even the edge as she cascaded over it screaming all through it. "B.....Cumming, for you sexy."
Faith finally stopped bucking and fell back taking Buffy with her. Both were panting and trying to catch their breath.
Buffy looked at her ring, really looked at it. "Faith, how did you know this was the ring I loved?"
Faith smiled.
"Willow! She told you and that's why she wouldn't let me buy you a ring...isn't it?"
"Yeah B, don't be mad at Red."
"I'm not. She makes a pretty good 'best bud' doesn't she?"
"The best B. I hate to say it, but we should get dressed and head back up to the house."
AT THE HOUSE
Spike saw the Slayers coming up the walkway and rushed to open the front door. "Someone is happy."
Buffy showed the blond vampire her engagement ring and beamed.
"Isn't she beautiful...and the ring is nice too."
"Yes she is and it is and you're both happy right?"
"Ecstatic Spike."
"Second happiest day of my life dude."
"Second baby?"
"The first was my birthday...when I realized that you were serious about me...that you loved me."
"Always will Faith. I wanna show off my ring to everybody, come on."
The Slayers came into the library and found most of their friends. All were smiling and looking at the ring.
"Okayyyy, am I the only one who didn't know about this?" She showed her ring.
"Pretty much Wee One. You will continue to love and protect my darling Faith...won't you?"
"Yes Breanna I will. I love her."
"Love you too B." Faith kissed her gently on the lips and pulled back before either could deepen it.
A great roar went up and congradulations came in from everyone. The champagne was flowing freely. Angel had seen to that.
Several toasts were made to the happy couple.
< To my girls...may their love only continue to grow. >
"Thanks Joyce."
"Thanks mom."
"Still think you're dreaming Faith?"
"If I am, I don't ever wanna wake up...unless you're by my side B."
...continued in Tail of Faith...