Chapter One ~ Chapter Two ~ Chapter Three ~ Chapter Four ~ Chapter Five ~ Chapter Six ~ Chapter Seven ~ Chapter Eight ~ Chapter Nine ~ Chapter Ten

Chapter Eleven ~ Chapter Twelve ~ Chapter Thirteen ~ Chapter Fourteen ~ Chapter Fifteen ~ Chapter Sixteen ~ Chapter Seventeen ~ Chapter Eighteen

Chapter Nineteen ~ Chapter Twenty ~ Chapter Twenty-One ~ Chapter Twenty-Two ~ Chapter Twenty-Three ~ Chapter Twenty-Four ~ Chapter Twenty-Five(a)

Chapter Twenty-Five(b) ~ Chapter Twenty-Five(c)

I Must Be Dreaming

Written by Dallas

Chapter One

AT SUNNYDALE LONG TERM CARE HEALTH FACILITY

Buffy walked into her fellow Slayer's room. *God she looks so young and peaceful. DAMN! I put her here.* "I don't know if you can hear me Faith, but I'm soooo sorry for what I did to you. I do know that what happened was an accident and if I had been there for you, like I should have been...none of the other stuff would ever have happened."

Buffy thought she was all cried out. She was wrong. Hot tears fell down her cheeks and she felt the thrust of a knife in her own heart. *Guess it serves me right, after what I did to her.* Buffy wrung her hands.

"I know you will wake up soon, you probably had the same 'Slayer dream' that I did. I will protect you this time, I promise."

Buffy pulled the new clothes she had bought for Faith out of the knapsack she had brought. She was concentrating on getting the leather pants on the still comatose Faith and she didn't hear the doctor come into the room.

"What are you doing Miss Summers?" The doctor knew that both women were Slayers.

"She's gonna wake up in a little while. I don't expect you to believe me, but I know it's true."

"Did you have a 'Slayer dream'?" The doctor's understanding statement floored Buffy.

Buffy's mouth dropped open in surprise. No sound came out when she tried to speak.

"Rupert is an old friend, so I know that you are both Vampire Slayers. I have learned to trust Rupert over the years and he says that if you say something, then it must be true."

Buffy saw the concern written all over the redheaded doctor's face. Buffy also noticed the weariness deeply etched there.

"Uhhhh, yeah I did see her wake up in a dream. But she will be attacked first and I mean to see that it doesn't happen. She has been hurt enough." *Especially by me.*

"Would you like me to help you dress her?" She held out her hands hoping that the blonde slayer would allow her to help.

"Okay, she loves leather. So I got her black leather pants, white t-shirt and a black leather vest." *God, she looks so sexy...where the hell did that come from?*

Faith was properly dressed in minutes. The doctor checked the readings on the machines. "I will tell security that under no circumstances are they to enter this room...no matter what they hear. You do realize that, even when she wakes up, there is no guarantee that she will remember you or anything from her past?"

"I know that, but I will be here to help her in any way I can." Buffy looked down at her feet, the guilt was written all over her tear-stained face.

"You didn't have a choice Miss Summers, she had to be stopped. You could have killed her, you didn't." *Both of these women are going to need help in dealing with their guilt.*

"I wasn't there for her when she needed me. I am as much to blame for what she did, maybe more so."

"When you say she will be attacked just before she wakes up, do you mean by vampires?" The fear shone clearly in her eyes.

"Yes, I don't know how they know where she is, but I will dust them before they get to her." Buffy pulled out two wooden stakes, hefted them, and took a few practice swings. "You need to leave now Doctor, I'll press the call button when it's over and she's awake."

Buffy's Slayer Sense was off the wall, she knew vamps were close by. She shoved the doctor out of the room quickly and turned to the open window just in time to see three vamps. She dusted the first two, but the third surprised her and smashed her in the mouth. She could taste the copper from her bleeding lip and it pissed her off no end.

IN FAITH'S MIND

*B needs me, I have to wake up.* Faith moaned softly and opened her eyes. Faith saw her fellow Slayer being held against the wall before Buffy managed to kick him. *Guess a good swift kick to big Jim and the twins works on the undead too.*

Buffy was gasping for breath when Poof, he turned to dust. She saw Faith standing there with a stake in her hand.

"Faith? Oh thank god, are you alright? How do you feel? Thanks for the assist." Buffy was babbling and she knew it, but she couldn't help it. They were the Chosen Two again and it felt right, like the missing piece of her was finally back.

"Whoa B, slow down. One question at a time." Faith shook her head and grabbed the bed. Her knees felt weak and were about to give out on her.

Buffy helped the brunette Slayer to sit on the bed. She pressed the call button and the doctor rushed in, closing the door behind her.

"Welcome back Faith." She pulled out her stethoscope and listened intently before checking her patient's pulse. She flashed a penlight into the brunette's brown eyes. Faith blinked and pulled back. "How are you feeling?"

"I'm starved, can I have real food?" Faith knew she had been out of commission for a while and thought pizza would be good right now.

"I'm not sure that's a good idea just yet. You haven't had 'real food', as you put it, in almost two years. I think you should start with soup and jello." The doctor laughed at the pouting _expression on Faith's face.

"Two years? No wonder I'm so hungry. How about mashing a pizza...please?"

Buffy laughed, "Give yourself some time Faith. I promise to bring you the biggest pizza that can be made when the doctor says it's okay." *She's so cute when she pouts. HUH? What's wrong with me? I don't...I mean...she's a girl...Faith, what are you doing to me?*

Faith didn't miss the myriad of emotions crossing Buffy's face. *Whoa, I think she likes me...as more than a friend, and its weirding her out. If she knew what the majority of my dreams were about, she would run screaming from the room.*

"Come on doc...how about a sandwich at least...pleeeease?" Faith begged.

"Okay Faith, I'll see what I can do. Is tuna okay with you?"

"Better than soup or jello." Faith smiled.

"I don't know Faith, jello is pretty good with Cool Whip." Buffy winked at her fellow Slayer.

"Umm doc? Can we have red jello with Cool Whip?" Faith licked her lips in anticipation.

"I'll be back in a few minutes. You take it easy young lady, your legs will still be a little weak from lack of use." *Why do I have the feeling that she will take that as a challenge?* Rupert warned me about your stubbornness. He seemed to think it is a Slayer trait."

The Doctor gave Buffy a strange look.

*Oh oh B. I wonder what G-Man has been telling her.?*"Don't under estimate Slayer Strength or recuperation abilities." Faith grinned and stuck her tongue out at the doctor who just laughed.

"I won't, as long as you don't over estimate them." *I just know as soon as I leave, she will get up and try walking around.* "

After the doctor left the room, Faith turned to Buffy wondering how to say what she felt. "B, how come you aren't beating the hell outta me?"

"I think I've done enough damage to you to last a lifetime, don't you?" Buffy's guilt overwhelmed her and a tear rolled down her cheek. Faith brought her into her arms and just held the blonde until she stopped shaking. The brunette pulled back and looked into watery blue eyes, "I deserved it B, you know I did. What I did...it was way out of line and you did what you had to do to protect everyone from the psycho bitch."

"Is that who you are now Faith?" *Please say no...please say no.*

"I don't think so, but that part of me will always exist." Faith was ashamed of her past behavior and wasn't sure how to explain why she did what she did. She stood up and started pacing. Buffy was right beside her in seconds in case her legs gave out again. Good thing she was, Faith almost collapsed and was caught by Buffy.

"You need to stay in bed for now Faith. I promise to help you get back on your feet."

"I've been in bed too fucking long as it is. Please B, I just wanna look out the window...see the stars, feel the fresh air." The last words were spoken so softly that only another Slayer could hear them.

"Okay, the Doc will kill me but...Give me your arm, and lean on me." Buffy slowly walked the younger Slayer over to the window. The smile Faith gave her made her heart pound rapidly.

"B, what's the date?"

"December 20th, it's almost Christmas. I got what I wanted, you woke up and are gonna be fine in time. What do you want for Christmas Faith?"

"Your forgiveness and maybe we can try to become friends...real friends this time around." Faith looked a lot younger than she was as she sucked in her bottom lip wondering just what Buffy wanted or needed from her.

"You have that Faith, I meant what kind of presents do you want?"

Faith's eyes watered and she didn't know what to say.

"Shhh, Faith...it's okay. I guess I shouldn't push you so hard."

"Would you like to come to Christmas dinner at my place, if the Doctor releases you in time?"

"I don't think your friends or family would appreciate that B. I mean I did try to kill all of them. Your mom would probably have me arrested and Dawn and the Scoobies would...would..." Faith broke down crying. Hugh sobs came from deep within her soul.

Buffy pulled the girl into her arms to comfort her. "I can handle Dawn and the Scoobies."

Faith didn't miss the fact that Buffy had failed to mention her mother. "B? What about your mom?"

"She...she died six months ago." Buffy tried to contain her tears and was gratified to feel Faith hug her tightly.

"I'm so sorry B, believe it or not...I liked your mom."

"She cared about you too Faith. She told me I should forgive you because it was the right thing to do. I wasn't sure I could, but I promised her I would...would try. After she died, I started coming to see you occasionally. I realized that I had forgiven you, I'm not sure I can forgive myself."

"What the fuck! Why not B? You did what you had to do."

"If I had been there for you when you accidentally staked that guy, you would never have gone off the deep end. You turned yourself in to the Mayor, not knowing he was a high level demon. He used your insecurities and tried to make you as evil as he was. But he didn't succeed Faith. In the end it was you who helped defeat him." Buffy knew it would take time and patience to bring Faith around.

"I had to," Faith said quietly. "He was gonna kill you and I was still furious at you and wanted to do that myself. That's why I attacked you on the roof. I wanted to make you feel the same pain I felt every day."

Buffy was shocked at the truth coming out of Faith. "Do you still want to kill me?" The older slayer gulped and prayed for a negative answer.

"No. I want, even though I don't deserve it, I want a second chance B." Faith looked like she was just waiting to be slapped down again and it hurt Buffy to see it.

"I think we both need a second chance. This time I think we should take the time to really get to know each other." Buffy blushed, hoping she wasn't pushing her fellow Slayer to hard.

*This has to be some kind of game, Buffy doesn't give a rat's ass about me. What is she up to?*

"Why B?"

"Why what Faith?" *She's skittish, I have to go slow.*

"Why are you willing to give me a second chance? I mean I wouldn't blame you if this is some kind of setup...ya know?" *I won't cry, I won't cry...shit!*

"Faith I promise you, this is not a game, a psyche or anything else. It's just me trying to do the right thing, and it's something I want to do. You said you wanted a second chance...so I'm giving it to you. Will you give me the same?" Buffy gently wiped the dark girl's tears away.

Faith just nodded, speaking was impossible right now. Buffy assisted Faith back over to the bed. Faith leaned against the backboard and patted the bed beside her. Buffy smiled and sat down beside her.

The Doctor came back in with a tray. It contained a small portion of lasagna, a tuna sandwich and two bowls of cherry jello with whip cream. "I want you to eat this slowly Faith, not inhale it."

"Yes M'am. Gimme, I'm starved." Faith reached for the tray and set it across her legs. "After I eat, can I leave here?"

"Not at least till tomorrow Faith. I want to run some tests to make sure you are all right. Here, I also want you to take these multi-vitamins for a little while."

"Vitamins? You're kidding right Doc?" Faith looked like a kid that had been given broccoli.

*She's cute when she pouts, who am I kidding? She's always cute. Whoa there girl, chill out now.* Buffy smiled at her counterpart and said, "Just think of them as space food Faith." Buffy giggled.

Faith's eyebrow flew up and her mouth dropped open. *She's cute when she giggles, aw hell...she's always cute. Stop right there Faith, she is offering friendship, don't push it.* "Space food B? Nice try. Here you take em." Faith handed the blonde two pills large enough to choke a horse.

"Faith! You have to take them or I will take the tray away right now."

Faith recognized the serious tone in the Doctor's voice, so she swallowed one of the pills. She gagged and made a face.

"Poor Faith," Buffy laughed out loud.

Faith handed the other one to Buffy, crossed her arms and gave her a look that said, 'Your turn.'

Buffy looked at the Doctor and shrugged. She took the vitamin and gagged herself. "UGHHHHH." Buffy saw the genuine smile on Faith's face.

"Faith, Buffy didn't need that. I will be back and you WILL take the second one."

As soon as the Doctor left Faith turned to Buffy, "Get me outta here B...please."

"I will bring you home tomorrow Faith, I promise. I need to get your room ready at the house. You will be using Dawn's old room and I don't think you want toy boy band posters on your wall, or pink paint."

"Dawn isn't gonna like losing her room B."

"She is away at college in New York. She was accepted to the school of Drama and Arts a year ago. She left four months ago, swearing she was never coming back to the Hellmouth. She is spending this Christmas with her boyfriend's parents in Bermuda."

"Dawn, College? Boyfriend?" It was a lot to take in for Faith, who was slowly coming to the conclusion that she had missed a lot during her two-year nap.

"She turned eighteen six months ago Faith, she's not the kid you remember. She is a lot like you. She knows what she wants and is going to move heaven and earth to get it." Buffy shook her head, she was still having a hard time accepting Dawn as an adult herself.

The door opened and the girls expected it to be the Doctor with another football sized pill for Faith to take. When Giles walked in, they were totally flabbergasted.

"Uhhhh Giles, why are you here?" Buffy was afraid that the Watcher's Council wanted to take Faith away.

"Hey G-Man, what's the what?"

"Robin called me to inform me that you had woken up Faith. How do you feel?" Giles took off his glasses and cleaned them for lack of anything better to do.

"Only four by four right now. But you know Slayer healing, I will be fine. Are you here to take me back to the Council?" Faith's breathing hitched a little and Buffy unconsciously took her hand.

"No, Faith. I just came to see how you were. The Council has given me the choice of becoming your watcher or sending you back to England. I think you would rather put up with me, wouldn't you?"

"Yeah G-Man, if I have to have a watcher, then you're okay." Faith wondered what her future would bring now that she was almost back in the saddle again. Look, G...Giles, I know you don't trust me and probably never will...but I will do whatever it takes to prove that I'm not crazy anymore."

"Considering that you just used my name, I wonder." Giles gave the worried Slayer a small smile.

"Giles, you made a joke!" Buffy was stunned, but not as much as Faith was.

"Check his temperature B. He's not setting off my Slayer Sense, but something is really freaky here."

"Har har." Giles threw a punch at Faith. She stopped it and before Giles knew what had happened, Buffy had him up against the wall. He could see the angry flashes in her eyes.

"What the hell was that for Giles? You could have hurt her? She just woke up, are you brain dead or what?" Buffy let go with both barrels. "If you try anything like that again, we will have a big problem...understand?" Buffy let the man down.

"Uh well, she needed to know that she still has it," Giles said weakly, glad to be back on the ground. "Since when are you her protector Buffy?"

"Since...since...I just am. Deal with it." Buffy was still trying to come to terms about what she felt for the younger Slayer.

*Don't read to much into that Faith, she just...just...* Faith ate the lasagna while keeping an eye on Giles and Buffy. She handed Buffy half of the tuna sandwich and they made it vanish quickly.

"Yes...well umm, Faith please contact me when you are ready to start training again. I assume that I will see you at Buffy's house for Christmas dinner?"

"Yes Giles you will. When the Doctor releases her, I'm taking her home...with me." The look on Buffy's face brooked no argument and Giles knew this.

"How did the vamps know where I am?" Faith hadn't forgotten the earlier attack, the one that woke her up to help Buffy.

"What vamps Faith? Bloody hell, if they know you're here now, you aren't safe. Let me talk to Robin, I will see if it's plausible for you to be released tonight." Giles walked out of the room.

"B?"

"Yeah Faith?"

"How many times have you protected me from vamps or other butt uglies?"

"Tonight was the first time." Buffy got up off of the bed and started pacing.

"B, you need to relax. Here, have your jello. Faith spooned the whip cream off of hers and added it Buffy's. She blushed as she handed it to the older blonde woman.

Buffy spooned part of the whip cream and fed it to Faith. "We will have to learn to share a lot of things Faith." *Like showers, okay so not what I need to be thinking about now.*

"Are you sure about taking me home B? The Scoobies will give you a hard time, you know they will." Faith was ready to cry again and that was something she hated to do.

"Never been more sure of anything in my life Faith. Leave the Scoobies to me. I will let them know that if they give you a hard time about the past, I will come down on them like a ton of bricks."

Faith took a chance; she pulled Buffy back down on the bed and hugged her. She whispered heartfelt thanks. When they reluctantly pulled apart they were staring into each other's eyes. Time stood still as they slowly leaned towards each other. The moment was broken as Giles came in pushing a wheelchair and the Doctor followed him back into Faith's room. The girls pulled apart quickly, blushing as they did so. The Doctor handed Faith another multi-vitamin and a glass of water. Faith didn't fight her. With great difficulty, she swallowed it. The Doctor handed the brunette a bottle of vitamins, "You need to take three a day for the next two weeks. Then I want to see you."

Faith made a face, but knew better than to argue. She got up off of the bed and Buffy was beside her immediately. "Hey B, I can walk that far on my own ya know? But thanks." Faith sat down in the wheelchair as Giles handed her the release papers. She signed and they went out to the parking lot. Buffy helped Faith get into the backseat before joining her.

AT BUFFY'S HOUSE

Buffy put her key in lock of the front door and almost pushed it off it's hinges in an effort to get the tired young brunette inside. *She's here, Faith's really here...with me.*

Giles arm snaked around Faith's waist unobtrusively, offering silent assistance. Once Faith was seated on the couch in the living room, Buffy mouth started to run a mile a minute.

"Faith, are you tired? Would you like a snack? Do you need or want anything?"

"I'm fine B, sit...take a load off." Faith knew how the older blonde felt because she was nervous as hell too.

Giles cleared his throat. "Yes...well, I think we need to find out just who is looking for Faith. I believe a full meeting should be called for tomorrow morning. I will call Willow and she will contact the others."

Faith smiled, Giles in geek mode was hilarious. "G-Man, they aren't gonna want to help me. They probably would turn me other to whoever wants me...not that I'd blame them." That last part was said so softly that only Slayer hearing could have picked it up.

"Giles, make sure they all understand that anyone messing with Faith has me to answer to," Buffy huffed.

"I understand Buffy." *The bloody hell I do.* Giles shot a look at Faith that was correctly interpreted as the 'If you hurt her again...'.

Faith shook her head and pointed to Buffy behind her back, mouthing the words, 'Tell her.'

For the first time Giles saw uncertainty in Faith's eyes and quickly, but not totally masked,...fear. *She is not in control here. This does not bode well.*

"Maybe I should stay here tonight." Giles suggested timidly.

"Giles...Faith and I made a pac. She doesn't want to kill me and I don't want to kill her. We will be fine. Go home. We'll see you tomorrow afternoon, say around two. Faith could use the extra rest."

"So could you B. You're looking kinda wiped yourself." Faith hadn't missed the tiredness in the older blonde woman. Faith stood up, "So where is my room?"

Giles let himself out as her watched Buffy rush to Faith's side to help her up the stairs.

Chapter Two

Buffy showed Faith to her room, apologizing for the decor, all the way.

Buffy was mumbling under her breath, but Faith could hear every word thanks to Slayer hearing. "Pink...Faith hates pink. Way to make her feel welcome."

"B, it's okay. It's better than I've had in years and certainly more than what I deserve." Faith still didn't know why Buffy was being so friendly and it bothered her. *I'll think better after a good night's sleep...I hope.*

Buffy went into her room and grabbed a nightshirt for Faith. When she took it back to Faith, she saw that Faith had stripped and gotten into bed naked. She was fast asleep and had already kicked the covers partially off, showing her in all her glory from the waist up. Buffy started for a minutes and shook her head. *God, she is so beautiful and...and I should leave now.* Reluctantly tearing her eyes from Faith, Buffy quietly closed the door behind her and went to her room.

DECEMBER 21

Faith woke up to Buffy knocking on her bedroom door. The brunette Slayer got up and opened the door. Buffy came in carrying a tray with burnt bacon, semi-raw scrambled eggs, dark toast with peanut butter and a glass of mango juice on it. "Get back in bed Faith and I'll hand you your tray. Eat up while I go take a shower, I'll be back soon."

Faith didn't have the heart to tell Buffy what she really thought of her breakfast. She saw the pleased look on the older Slayer's face and just smiled. She figured the toast looked to be the safest edible thing on the tray. As soon as Buffy left, Faith jumped out of bed and tossed the runny eggs down the toilet and flushed. Next she threw the burnt bacon out the window. She just gotten back in bed and was eating the second piece of toast when Buffy walked back in.

When Buffy saw the almost empty plate on the tray, she beamed. She handed Faith a pair of black jeans and a black 'TAZ' sweatshirt. Faith smiled and set the tray on the dresser.

"Gotta love Taz." Faith took the clothes and went into the bathroom, closing the door behind her.

Buffy stared as the nude brunette walked in front of her. *She's hot, I'm getting hot...I should leave.* Buffy stumbled over her own feet as she rushed out of the room.

*I know B was checking me out. I am hot, but B? I didn't think she swung that way. Maybe...Down girl, let whatever is happening... happen.* Faith took a long hot shower, luxuriating in it's warmth.

*Damn, Faith saw me checking her out. I hope she doesn't run.* Buffy knew that she would have to get her raging hormones under control before facing Faith again.

The girls ended up in the kitchen together. Faith stuck her head in the fridge and pulled out a drumstick. "Wanna bite B?" Faith said with her mouthful. She grinned at her light counterpart, holding out the leg.

"Uhh...no thanks, enjoy." Buffy shook her head. *Where does she put it all?*

Faith smiled and sat down at the table. Buffy filled their cups and handed Faith the sugar while she grabbed the cream out of the fridge.

The brunette sat back and looked around. *Don't get to used to it, you know you will fuck it up somehow.* Just the thought of leaving caused unbelievable pain deep inside her soul. *Please God, or whoever is in charge...don't let me fuck this up this time.*

Buffy saw the frown and quick flash of fear pass across Faith's features.

"Are you okay Faith?" Buffy leaned forward and took the younger Slayer's hand in hers.

Faith squeezed Buffy's hand before letting go. "You know me B...five by five." *Her hand is so small and soft.*

*Holding her hand felt so right.* Buffy was brought out of her musings when Faith knocked on her forehead.

"Hello? Porch light's on and no one's home." Faith laughed quietly.

Buffy jerked back and saw a smirking Faith. "Hey," the blonde said rubbing her forehead.

"Welcome back B. Looked like a nice place, care to share?"

Buffy took a chance, she reached out and took Faith's hand in hers again. Faith looked confused for a moment and then went with how good it felt to be holding Buffy's hand.

Both girls had closed their eyes, letting their Slayer Bond speak for them. They knew there were a lot of unresolved issues, but they would make it through them together.

"Are you up for a short run Faith?" Buffy knew she had to do something before she babbled out her feelings.

"Uh...run? Yeah, sure B." Faith recognized that Buffy needed to do something with all the stored energy. "Where are we going?"

"The park down the street has a nice runner's path. But if you start getting tired, I expect you to tell me." Buffy said sternly.

"Relax B, I'm fine." *Does she really care, or is she just afraid if I get hurt, she will be blamed?*

*She certainly is.* "Let's go," Buffy grabbed a waist purse that held the house keys. Faith tossed Buffy her coat and put the other on herself. Buffy held the front door open and Faith walked out into the sunshine. Buffy locked the door and looked at Faith. *She really likes being outside in the sunshine. I bet she doesn't even realize that it's snowing.*

Faith smiled and held her tongue out to catch snowflakes. "Ughhh, they taste terrible."

Buffy laughed, she couldn't help it. The look on Faith's face went from childlike glee to totally disgusted in a fraction of a second.

Buffy should have know better than to zone out.

SPLAT. Buffy felt the snowball hit between her shoulder blades.

"Faith! Oh you are so gonna get it." Buffy made a quick snowball and nailed the brunette right in the middle of the chest.

Faith threw several snowballs over Buffy's head. Buffy stuck her tongue out, "Missed me...Nyah Nyah." Just as the blonde was about to throw a snowball...WHOMP. All the snow on the branch above her head dropped down on her and buried her good. Faith burst out laughing so hard she fell back on her ass. She was holding hers sides, trying to stop laughing. When Buffy came up sputtering, Faith lost it again.

"Doesn't look like I missed B." When Faith saw the look in Buffy's eye, she tried to get up. *Oh shit, I'm gonna get it now.* The snow was too slippery and Buffy pounced on the surprised brunette, shoving snow down Faith's front and back.

"Gaaaaaaaa, B! Uncle. Fuck that's cold," Faith said shaking the blonde off and finally managing to her feet under herself. Both girls looked at each other and burst out laughing. Buffy got up and held out her hand. Faith grabbed it and got to her feet. She noticed Buffy had the other hand behind her back. *That's okay, I have a surprise for her too. Come on B, make your move.* Buffy brought the snowball from behind her back and dropped it. Faith was surprised, but she dropped hers too.

"B, look out!" Faith knocked Buffy to the left and was encompassed by the rest of the snow from the low hanging branch.

In between giggles Buffy said, "You're right Faith, it is funny... when it's someone else."

Faith cursed under her breath, but Buffy heard her..."Gonna get you back B, just you fucking wait."

"Hey, you started it...I ended it." Buffy ran back towards the front door, pulling out the key. Faith caught her and shoved a handful of snow down Buffy's pants. The blonde squealed and turned to shove Faith. Faith being the reasonably intelligent person that she was had run into the house. Buffy followed her inside and closed the door.

"I'm fucking cold and wet, and I haven't had that much fun in...well, never. Thanks B." The younger Slayer blushed and looked away.

"We should get some dry clothes on Faith. I don't want you getting sick because of me." *She really means it, she had fun. So did I. God when she was laughing at me being covered in snow, she was so beautiful.*

"Chill out B. I'm not made of porcelain ya know. Besides, you're wetter than I am."

*How does she know...oh yeah, she means the snow.*

"I need to go to the Mayor's mansion to see if my clothes are still there and other stuff." Faith knew that Buffy would insist on coming along with her, but would it be out of a lack of trust or for her own protection?

"Do you want me to go in with you or just wait outside with the car?" Buffy didn't want to crowd Faith right now because she knew it wouldn't help matters. "For now though you will need some of my clothes." Buffy walked past Faith on the stairs deliberately running the back of her hand across the brunette's thigh. Faith swallowed hard and shivered at the first touch from Buffy. Buffy kept walking up the stairs. She had seen Faith's reaction to being touched and was pleased. "Are you coming Faith?"

*Touch me like that again and I just might.* " Right behind ya B." *And what a hot little behind you have too.*

Buffy handed Faith a pair of black jeans and a pink sweatshirt with a bunny on it.

Faith took the jeans, "I don't do pink, or bunnies B." Faith grumbled as she grabbed a plain white sweatshirt.

"But you'd look cute in it Faith." Buffy smiled when Faith's eyebrow flew up.

"I don't do cute either B." Placing her hands on her hips, Faith glared at Buffy.

Buffy stuck her tongue out and was surprised when the young brunette returned the gesture. Faith walked back to her room and closed the door. She dressed quickly and was wandering around the room mumbling, cursing, throwing her hands in the air when Buffy knocked.

"Faith? Are you alright in there?"

Hearing the concern in her fellow Slayer's voice, Faith answered; "Yeah B, five by five. I'll meet you downstairs in a minute."

*Breathe in, breathe out...calm down. I am calm...I am calm. Like shit I am...Damn B, why do you have to be so sexy and hot. FUCK! I need a very long, really cold shower before I face B.*

Faith laid the clothes Buffy had given her on the bed and walked into the bathroom. She turned the shower on cold and stepped in.

"AAAAAAAAAAA, coldddddd...need fur...B on a bearskin rug...B's skin rubbing mine. Listen up brain you aren't helping anything. As for you, body, we aren't getting outta here till you chill out.*

IN BUFFY'S ROOM

Buffy watched as Faith disappeared down the hall. *God, she is all curvy, sexy...I want...I need a cold shower.* She walked into her bathroom, turned on the cold water in the shower and stepped in.

Both girls dressed after their separate showers and met downstairs in the kitchen. Buffy handed Faith the sugar for her coffee and they sat down together, trying very hard not to devour each other with a look. The low down tickle was just something both girls would have to get used to. Both knew that giving into their mutual lust would not help them form a lasting relationship and that was what they both wanted.

"We should go meet Giles before the Scoobies get there." Buffy wanted to make sure that Giles understood that Faith would apologize to everyone for her past transgressions and that after that, they would never be mentioned again by anyone.

AT GILES HOUSE

KNOCK KNOCK

"B, I know I have to do this but...a pissed off witch, a former vengeance demon and Xan man...it's all too much. And you know Giles doesn't want me anywhere around 'his Slayer'." Faith's look of defeat was breaking Buffy's heart. Buffy took the younger girl's hand and said, "I'm here for and with you Faith."

Giles opened the door and let the girls in. He could see the fear in Faith's eyes and he thought it would make him feel good, but it didn't. *Faith is still a teenager who has had more than her fair share of problems. Buffy is willing to give her a second chance... can I do any less?*

"How are you feeling today Faith?" Giles asked, showing his concern. He took off his glasses and cleaned them.

"Okay G-Man, let me have it...both barrels and get it out of the way before the rest of gang gets here to put me in my place." Faith said with some of her old fire.

"Yes...well, I..." Giles stuttered.

"Spit it out, if I can't take one person's verbal abuse for my past...then how the hell will I deal with the Scoobies reaction?" Faith just wanted this day to be over with.

"Why did you do all those terrible things to us Faith? We were your friends." Giles knew better than to look at Buffy, he knew he would see sparks of anger in her eyes, but Faith was right. She had to run the gauntlet of everyone's emotional storm before she could ever begin to set things right.

"I couldn't deal with my feelings, so I lashed out at everyone around me. When I killed that man, I expected you all to help me somehow. You weren't there for me then, so I wasn't gonna be there for you to fight the good fight."

"But Faith, you did come around. In our shared Slayer Dream, you told me how to defeat the Mayor. You did the right thing in the end. We weren't there for you...I wasn't there for you and I know what happened was an accident. It just freaked me out so much, I was so afraid that something like could happen to me too. I just couldn't deal with it. I blamed you and that was wrong. You know that the Scoobies rarely argued with me about anything I said or did. I never gave them the chance to help you when I couldn't. I just decided arbitrarily that you had gone bad and needed to be stopped. They just followed what I said. Then when they came after you, you fought back and hurt them all...like they hurt you. It's time to stop the hurting for everyone Faith, especially you." Buffy pulled the upset brunette into her arms and hugged her tightly. For once Buffy's libido stayed out of the equation. Faith needed reassurance, and she would give that to her. Hoping that it wouldn't be a case of too little, too late.

"Faith, when Buffy turned away...why didn't you come to me?" Giles realized he was hurt that Faith didn't ask him what to do.

"You were and are 'her' watcher G-Man. I went to the Mayor to turn myself in...that's what you would have told me to do isn't it?"

"No Faith, I would have made arrangements for you to be assigned somewhere else. You are THE Slayer, the bloodline rests with you. I would have helped you set up shop in any city you wanted."

Faith was surprised by what Giles had said. Silent tears began to fall and Giles handed her his silk handkerchief and looked away. "I need to know G..Giles, why did you agree to become my Watcher again? Was it because you really want to help and work with me, or just to keep me outta the Council's hands?"

"A bit of both actually Faith. The Council's methods leave a lot to be desired. Buffy was right, the only way to get past your past is to stay here with the people you want and need forgiveness from. I think you know it won't be easy. As a matter of fact, it could get very ugly soon enough. But I do believe you want to earn redemption, so I will do everything I can to assist you."

"Thanks, that means a lot to me. The two people I hurt most are willing to help me. I won't ever go back to being that bitch again, I promise. I would like to start training today...after the scream fest which is about to go down."

KNOCK KNOCK

Giles nodded at Faith who went to answer the door. She silently let the Scoobies in.

"What the hell are you doing here Faith? Looking for more torture victims?" Xander was angry and didn't care who knew it.

"No Xander, I'm here to try to make amends and to clean up the mess I left behind. So go ahead, get the rest of it out of your system."

Willow was watching the exchange wondering. *What does she really want?*

"Make amends? Yeah right. I should believe you because?" Xander was clenching his fists tightly against his side. "You will always be psycho slut as far as I'm concerned."

"That's enough Xander." Buffy said in a voice that silenced him immediately. "I believe her, and Giles is her Watcher now. If you can't get beyond the past, then you should leave."

"Since when do you give a rat's ass about her?" Xander liked his anger, it was familiar to him and as comfortable as an old blanket.

"What do expect from us Faith?" Willow asked softly while keeping her distance.

"Expect? Nothing Red. I just want a second chance like most of you have given each other.

Xander did some terrible things as 'Bug Boy', and as 'SnakeMan' and was forgiven. You lost it for a while when you turned to black magic Red. You killed a lot of people and were forgiven almost immediately. I killed one person by accident and it snowballed from there. Why is it so hard for all of you to forgive me?" Faith was determined not to cry in front of the Scoobies.

Willow chewed her bottom lip. *Faith is right, we have all done things we are sorry for.* Willow walked over to Faith and held out her hand. Faith looked at the redhead and seeing nothing but a willingness to try, she shook the offered hand. It felt good.

Buffy turned to Anya, "You've been very quiet during all this."

"Faith never did anything to me personally and I have had twelve hundred years of being what Faith doesn't want to be. I know better than anyone the allure of that kind of power. She beat it by herself. That tells me she is a very strong young woman. I won't interfere with her unless she hurts Xander and I don't think she will do that again."

"I won't Anya, and thank you for understanding what I was going through." *Forgiveness from a Vengeance demon, wow who'd a thunk it.*

"Well, ummm...yes. If we can all agree to work together and not snipe, I think we can deal with this and put it in the past to stay. Everyone put their hands out and piled on top of Faith's. Xander's hand was placed over Willow and capped off by Giles.

"To a new beginning for all of us." Giles hoped this would be the outcome of today's talk. "Okay, we need to find out how the vamps found out where Faith was and who sent them."

"You were attacked already Faith?" Willow frowned.

"Well not exactly, Red. They came for me and B dusted two of them and I nailed the third one. A definite rude awaking, lemme tell ya."

"Doesn't a vampire need to be invited into a room?" Willow asked.

"No Willow, a hospital is a public place and vampires don't need to be invited in." Giles turned to Buffy, "Was there anything different about those vampires Buffy?"

"Different, how? They came in through the open window and we took care of them, right Faith?"

"Yeah B, we did. Open window...did you open it B?"

"No it was open when I got there."

"Who would open a window in a coma patient's room in the middle of winter? Faith, please think hard. I need a list of the Mayor's accomplices. Maybe I can find out who is left now and has a grudge against you." Giles handed Faith a notepad and pen.

"G-Man, I only ever saw two men talking to the Mayor. One was a vamp; as a matter of fact it was the one I dusted in my room. The other man seemed like a rich businessman. He had on a very expensive silk suit, Armani loafers and...a large diamond ring on his left pinkie. The diamond was in the mouth of a serpent. I don't know his name or where he is now." Faith looked at a spot on the floor until Buffy took her hand and smiled at her.

"We will find him Faith, I promise you." Buffy said in a no nonsense voice.

"No B, I need to find him and deal with him." Faith saw the look on Giles faces and quickly stated, "Relax G-Man, I mean turn him in to the cops, not kill him."

"Faith, if he's not human then the cops won't be able to deal with him. We need to work together on this." Giles was worried about what Faith would do.

"If he's not human, then he will be worse than I ever was and I won't let him hurt any of you."

Willow looked at Faith, "Do you trust me Faith?"

"Yes, why Red?"

"Then let me find him and see if he is human or not. Then we can decide what to do. Please give me a couple of days."

"Okay Red, but if he shows up...then what?"

"Then WE will deal with him in whatever manner is called for."

"You don't go anywhere without B or me with you, understand Red? That's non-negotiable."

"Are you worried about me or is it a matter of trust?" Willow thought Faith seemed a little afraid and that was unlike her.

"I'm worried about ya Red. I know you have magic powers, but it takes time to say a spell. Time you might not have. So promise me you will let B and me protect you."

"I can locate him using a computer a lot faster than using a locator spell Faith. But I promise I will not go anywhere without a Slayer. Thanks for wanting to protect me. Can you describe him to me?"

"Well built, about forty something years old, dark brown wavy hair, about six feet tall, speaks several languages, and is almost as good as you on a computer. Does that help?"

"Yeah, give me a few minutes to put those parameters into the data base of my laptop and then see what it finds." Willow typed in everything that Faith had told her.

Giles looked thoughtful for a minute and went into his office off of the living room. When he came back he handed Faith a picture. "Is this him Faith?"

"Holy shit G-Man, yeah that's him. Who is he and why do you have a picture of him?"

Giles handed the picture to Willow to scan into the computer. "Well, he was the youngest head of the council."

"Was? What happened to him?" Faith was no longer surprised that this group could find out anything.

"He went rogue, and as far as I knew he was assassinated five years ago. Let me go make a few calls. I need everyone to stay here for now." The look on Giles face worried Scoobies and Slayers alike.

"Come on Faith, lets go train for awhile. I know standing around isn't exactly something you do well." Buffy led Faith towards training room in Giles basement.

"Buffy as you reminded me so forcefully yesterday, Faith just came out of a two year coma yesterday. So go easy on her until she says otherwise or you can gage her strength and speed. We will need both of you very soon."

"Don't worry about me G-Man, Buffy always could kick my ass but never deliberately hurt me in training." Faith laughed and grinned at her light counterpart.

"Ummmm...guys." Willow spoke out. "There are two death certificates for this guy. It says he died five years ago and then again three months ago. That's weird, how can someone die twice?"

"It's not too hard Will," Buffy said tonelessly.

Buffy grabbed Faith's hand and they went to the training room, leaving the Scoobies to figure out what was going on.

IN THE TRAINING ROOM

"Okay Faith, I want you to come at me." Buffy tensed up and waited for the brunette to make her move.

Faith ran forward, stopped directly in front of Buffy and tried to sweep her legs out from under her. Buffy was waiting for that move and knocked Faith backwards.

"Come on Faith, I know you can do better than that in your sleep."

Faith grinned and threw a punch which Buffy ducked. The blonde Slayer didn't see the other fist which doubled her over and Faith using interlocked fingers on the back of Buffy's neck, dropped her to the floor.

"Shit, B are you okay?" Faith helped the stunned girl back to her feet.

"I'm fine Faith, nice move. Let's see you try that again." Buffy watched Faith, she knew that Faith telegraphed her moves and she needed to break her of that habit.

As Faith was getting up off of the floor she said, "I never even saw that. What did you do to me B?"

"I used your own momentum to knock you off balance and then swept your left leg as I brought my hand around your neck."

"Won't work again B, ya know that right?"

Faith cursed as she got up off the floor again. "Okay, I could be wrong." Both girls laughed and traded punches and kicks for a little while longer. Buffy hooked Faith's hip and came crashing down on top of her.

"Were you planning on getting off...of me any time soon B?" Faith felt warmth run down her body and she needed to get out from under Buffy before she said or did something wrong.

*Getting off with you...god Faith, you have no idea.* Buffy leaned down and gently kissed Faith on the lips. She felt Faith return it and both girls felt a bolt of electricity run down their spines. Their Slayer bond made it more intense.

"B?" Faith pulled back to look into the greenest eyes she had ever seen.

"I just had to know." Buffy licked her lips and knew she wanted more...much more.

"Know what B?" *Please don't let this be a setup.*

"If your lips were a soft as they looked." Buffy smiled when Faith didn't freak out by being kissed.

"And...?" Faith prayed that Buffy had enjoyed their kiss as much as she had.

"They are the softest, sexiest lips I have ever tasted." *God, she is such a good kisser. How could I have not kissed her before now?*

"News flash for ya B, I've been dreaming of kissing you and the real thing was much better. But where do we go from here?"

Chapter Three

A/n: <> denotes the words of a ghost. (not telling ya who)

"News flash for ya B, I've been dreaming of kissing you and the real thing was much better. But where do we go from here?"

"Dinner. I mean, will you go out to dinner with me Faith?" Buffy blushed as she looked at her fellow Slayer.

"Like a real date?" Faith couldn't believe her ears, this was what she had wanted for so long.

"Yeah, I mean, it's up to you." *Bad Buffy, you're pushing to hard.*

Faith smiled and Buffy knew it was an honest smile involving real happiness.

*I have a date with B! I have a date with B!* Faith's lost look gave Buffy her opportunity for a little payback. She rapped on Faith's forehead.

"What the fuck?" Faith shook her head and refocused on the beautiful blonde in front of her.

"How did you put it? Oh yeah, porch light's on and no one's home." Buffy giggled and Faith shook her head and laughed too. "You didn't answer my question Faith. Will you go out with me tonight?"

Faith licked her dry lips, "Yeah B, I'll go out with you and I'll even keep my elbows off the table."

"Faith!" Buffy leaned in to gently kissed those ruby red lips.

"MMMMM, B you better stop 'cause I can't." *Don't ever wanna stop kissing B.*

"Ahem," Giles cleared his throat. The girls jumped apart, both absolutely certain they had never blushed so hard in their lives.

"G-Man, I uhhhh..." Faith stammered.

"Giles, what...is something wrong?" Buffy took Faith's hand to let her know she didn't care what Giles saw or thought about what he saw.

"Buffy, I need you to check this warehouse. Willow felt a bad vibration from the building." Giles showed Buffy the address and told Faith that Willow wanted to talk to her.

"Try to be careful B."

"I always TRY...Faith. Don't worry, I'll see you at home later. I'll call the restaurant and make the reservations for seven thirty." Buffy smiled and kissed Faith's hand before walking out of the training room, heading for the shower.

"Ummmm, G-Man?" Faith was worried about Giles reaction even if Buffy wasn't.

"Yes Faith?" Giles knew what was coming.

"Are you okay with me and B dating?" *Please say yes, please say yes.*

"Would it matter if I weren't?"

"Yes, it matters."

"Then, no I don't have a problem with it, as long as the two of you don't let your personal feelings interfere with the job at hand."

Faith knew she was the seeing the 'father' figure right now as well as the Watcher. She gulped and tried to speak, but no words came out.

"And Faith, this had better not be just a fling a la 'get some, get gone'. It has become very obvious that Buffy has real feelings for you and she has for some time. I think you have those same feelings for her too. Am I wrong?"

"No G-Man, you're not wrong. I uh...I..." Faith was cut off by Willow who had entered the room.

"Faith, if you were serious about being my body guard...I need you to go somewhere with me at four o'clock."

"You're still going to the orphanage to help the kids no one wants, aren't you?" Faith remembered this little tidbit of information from when she had stalked her in the past.

"Yes, how did you know?" Willow was surprised and a bit fearful.

"I followed you for a week a long time ago, I saw you go there twice. I can meet you at your place at three thirty and then we will go. I have to go get my things from the mansion, that's if they are still there."

"Okay, thanks Faith. Have Buffy drop you off at my place and I will drive us there and back." Willow was still a little leery about spending time with the dark Slayer. *Even when she was nuts, she never hurt a child.*

"Um...Red?" Faith said softly.

"Yeah?"

"Could I come a bit earlier, I wanna...talk about..." *Grrrr why is this so hard?*

"I'll be home in an hour, come by then." *I bet she wants to talk about Buffy. Damn, Faith is kinda cute when she blushes.*

Buffy came walking back into the living room and everyone noticed her bleeding nose and head.

"B! What the hell happened? I'll beat them within an inch of their lives. Here, sit down and put your head back. GILES! Get a couple of towels and a suture kit. Buffy's hurt."

Giles rushed into the room and took one look at the blonde Slayer and handed Faith the first aid kit.

"No stitches Faith, Slayer healing remember? Just clean it and put a band aid on it please." Buffy felt a little woozy and was trying to hide it. She knew from the look on Faith's face, she wasn't doing a very good job of it. She used her patented puppy dog eyes to beg the brunette to keep quiet.

"What am I gonna do with you B?" Faith whispered softly in Buffy's ear as she cleaned the nasty looking gash on the blonde girl's forehead. Faith looked into the greenest, most expressive eyes she had ever seen. *God, I could get lost in there and like it. Damn B, don't look at me that way.* Faith squirmed trying to calm her raging libido and being this close to Buffy wasn't helping at all.

"What happened B?" Faith demanded.

"Nothing magical was there, just a bunch of drunken bikers. We had a difference of opinion, that's all. We should go get your stuff Faith, but since I have a really killer headache, you drive and be careful."

"Yes mom." Faith laughed as she helped Buffy up off of the couch. She handed the kit back to Giles and shook her head as if to say, "What do you want me to do?"

"Keep an eye on her Faith, if she shows any symptoms of a concussion, get her to the emergency room immediately... understand?"

"Chill G-Man, personally I would take her there now, but I don't want an unnecessary ass kicking...ya know?

"Hello? Still in the room." Buffy huffed.

"Relax Huffy, I said only if you get worse." Faith back peddled quickly.

"What did you just call me?" Buffy scowled as she swung a fist in Faith's general direction.

"Uhhh, we should leave now B." Faith reached for Buffy's hand and squeezed it gently, letting her know that she, Faith, would take care of her.

AT THE MANSION

Buffy opened the car door and started to get out.

"B, you don't have to come in. I know this place gives you the heebie jeebies. I'll be right back." Faith pulled out her key and put it in the lock. She felt the older girl's presence behind her.

"It won't be a picnic for you either Faith. Let me be here for you." The blonde ran her fingers across Faith's face and watched as the frown lines disappeared. Faith leaned into the touch and sighed contentedly.

Once inside, Faith pointed to the stairs saying, "My room is the second one on the left, or at least it was." Faith took the stairs two at a time. Buffy followed her silently.

"ALRIGHT! All my stuff is still here. Look B, even my Playstation and all the games." Faith looked like a kid on Christmas morning. Buffy smiled, she loved seeing Faith's smile. The blonde looked in the closet and found a beautiful leather jumpsuit. "Oh Faith, will you wear this tonight please? It's so soft and will look great on you. *And even better off. Down girl.*

"Huh? I thought you would have wanted me to wear a dress for our first official date." Faith blushed and looked at her feet, which she scuffed along the carpet.

"You'd do that for me Faith?" Buffy was flabbergasted.

"Don't you know by now, that I would do anything for you B?" *Shit did I just say that out loud?*

Buffy smiled and brushed her lips across Faith's full, luscious ones.

Faith looked around the room and her memories kicked in. She froze on the spot and started crying. "I'm so sorry Joyce, I didn't mean to hurt you. Oh god, it hurts." Faith felt Buffy's loving arms wrap around her and she heard, "She forgave you long ago Faith. Don't you think it's about time you forgave yourself?"

Just then both girls Slayer Senses went off the wall. They turned around and let out a shocked scream. There, not five feet away from them stood the ghostly figure of Joyce Summers.

"Mom?" Buffy said tentatively.

"Mrs. S? Oh god, I'm so sorry for what I did to you. I never got the chance to apologize." Faith broke down and collapsed on the carpet.

Joyce put her hand over Faith's rapidly beating heart. The older blonde woman slowly raised Faith up into her arms.

"How is this possible?" Both Slayers said at once.

"You have our undivided attention mom." Buffy reached out to touch the mother she missed so much.

"It was so hard mom, I don't know how you did it. I messed up, lots. Dawn hated me for a long time."

"I miss you so much mom," Buffy hugged her mother; not wanting to ever let her go again.

Faith tried to quietly slip out and let the Summer's women have some privacy.

Faith had the 'deer caught in the headlight' look on her face.

"I uh...you and B...privacy." That last word was mumbled softly.

<Sit down Faith, please. I know that most of the bad stuff that happened here in Sunnydale was a result of both of you not being able to deal with your feelings for each other. Tell me Faith, do you still love my daughter?> Joyce could feel the dark girl's nervousness and wanted her to know that she was okay with the girls being in a relationship.

Faith nodded, not looking at either of the blondes.

<Buffy, do you still love Faith?> Joyce knew the answer, but needed the girls to admit it to themselves and each other.

Buffy looked at the dark Slayer and nodded, "Yes mom I do, more than ever."

<Good, then stop beating yourselves up over the past. Start with a clean slate. You know you are both stronger and happier together. As the Chosen Two, you need each other. The fact that you love each other is a bonus that should never be taken for granted. Now come here and give me a hug.

Both girls flew into Joyce's welcoming arms.

Faith cried like she had never cried before. Both Buffy and Joyce held her while huge wracking sobs continued to come out of her. Joyce whispered in Buffy's ear, <Give her time and all of your love Buffy, but go slow. She is not used to anyone caring, really caring for her.>

"I will mom, I love her and I want her to be happy. I will do everything in my power to do that for her."

Faith had heard the quiet exchange, but was too busy trying to stop the waterworks.

Faith grabbed her stuff and started to walk out of the room. "Thanks Mrs. S, Buffy really lucked out getting you for a mother. I'll just take my stuff downstairs and put it in the car. Don't waste what few minutes you have together, talking about me please." Faith came back and hugged the older woman and left.

<Talking to or spending time with you isn't a waste of time Faith. I really did enjoy your company. I just wish you wouldn't sell yourself short so much. I love you Faith and I will never stop. I'm here, if you need me.> Joyce placed her hand over Faith's heart again. Faith felt the tears start again, so she walked quickly out of the room.

"Oh my god, mom. How could she survive all of that?" Buffy cried for her soon to be girlfriend.

"She is a strong individual Buffy. There's more. She is actually brilliant. Her first Watcher found out her I.Q. was almost off the scale. Faith graduated high school when she was fifteen. Just before she became a slayer. She crammed a two year course in ECE into one year and graduated with honors.>

"What's ECE?" Buffy was shocked that Faith was so smart. *She hides it well, I wonder why?*

"Early childhood education. She is qualified to look after kids with severe emotional problems and physical ones as well. She wanted to prevent other kids from going through the hell she did. She knows better than most what that can do to a child. But then she was called as a Slayer and never had a chance to put her degree to work. You might tell Willow and let her speak to some people. Faith needs to feel like she is making a difference in the world, not just from her Slaying duties.>

"I will talk to Willow mom, but I need to talk to Faith... really talk to her." Buffy could feel the solidness of her mother begin to fade. "I love you mom."

Joyce faded out and was gone. Buffy stayed on the couch for a few minutes, composing herself. She went downstairs and saw Faith waiting in the living room.

"Let's go home Faith." Buffy knew they had both been put through the wringer this day.

"You have to drop me off at Red's place B. Can you just throw my stuff in my room and I will unpack when I get back?"

"Okay, ummm Faith?"

"Yeah B?"

Buffy held out her open arms and Faith came right into them.

"Thanks B, I needed that." Faith ran her fingers through soft spun silky blonde hair.

"Me too Faith. We will be together, and we will be happy." Buffy stomped her foot comically causing them both to laugh.

Faith looked up and yelled, "Ya hear that? We are gonna be happy, so there." Faith stuck out her tongue.

"Do you want me to come with?" Buffy saw that Faith's nervousness had returned as she pulled up in front of Willow's apartment.

"No, it's okay Buffy. I mean, unless you need to talk to Red." Faith looked over at the beautiful blonde girl and thanked the gods that she had been given a second chance.

"Call me when you're done, or have Willow drop you off at home." Buffy leaned over and kissed the startled brunette. Faith got out and knocked on the right door. Willow answered immediately and let the dark Slayer in.

"Hi Faith, is everything okay?" Willow could sense something had happened that had unnerved Faith.

"You wouldn't believe me if I told ya." Faith smiled at the redhead.

"Try me, I'm pretty unflappable."

"Okay, well me and B saw...Joyce at the mansion." Faith's eyes teared up again.

"Buffy's mother? What happened? What did she say? If it's not too personal, I mean."

"She forgave me Red, just like you did. She knew how B and I felt about each other even back then, and she's okay with our getting together." Faith shook her head; still surprised that anyone would accept her.

"Is Buffy what you wanted to talk to me about Faith?" Willow asked softly, not wanting to push.

"Yeah Red. She's taking me to dinner tonight and I want...need to know what to talk about, how to act proper. I don't want to embarrass B, ya know? She asked me to wear a leather jumpsuit I have, but I thought maybe...I should wear a...a dress. What do you think?"

"Do you have a dress that you feel comfortable wearing and doesn't look...?"

"I have one green silk dress, but it's kind of tight. The rest, you would say are sluty and we both know B deserves better than that."

"Come with me Faith." Willow took Faith by the arm and led her to the room that still had Tara's clothes. "You're pretty much the same size...as Tara." The last two words were said so softly that only Slayer hearing would have picked them up.

"Red, I can't wear your late girlfriend's clothes. That would make you cry and I've done that enough to you." Faith knew Willow spent a lot of time in this room her scent was strong.

"It's okay Faith. I think she knew about you and Buffy too. She said the two of you would make a great couple if you didn't kill each other first. Oh my God, Faith...I'm so sorry. I didn't mean, I mean..." Willow covered her face with her hands, which Faith pulled away gently before speaking.

"Babbling Red. Got anything in..." Before Faith could finish the sentence, Willow handed her a black silk dress with gold threads running through it.

"Wow! That's beautiful Red. Can I try it on first?"

"Bathroom is right through that door."

When Faith came out Willow whistled. "Buffy is gonna love that on you Faith, it looks like it was made for you."

Faith did a little twirl and grinned. "Thanks Red, and I take back all the shit I ever said or thought about you. B was right, I never gave you a chance because smart and powerful people make me nervous."

RING RING

"I'll be right back, check out the long black leather coat. It's in the closet." Willow walked out to the hall and answered the phone.

"Hi Will, don't say my name if Faith is in earshot. My mom told me that Faith is super smart and she has a degree with honors in Early Childhood Education. Do you think you might be able to help her find a job?"

"Faith went to university? Wow. She said smart people make her nervous. I wonder why, since she is one herself."

"Yeah well you know Faith, she prefers to kick ass. But she wouldn't have done so well in that course if she weren't interested or good at helping troubled kids. I mean she's been there and done that, so she can empathize with them."

"I'll talk to the people at the orphanage we are going to. Maybe she could volunteer for a while to show them how good she is. Um...Buffy?"

"Yeah Will?"

"I can't believe I'm actually gonna say this but, Faith is kind of nervous about your date tonight. She really wants to make a good impression, so I hope you tell her how good she looks when you see her."

"Will, Faith always looks good." Buffy licked her lips, she could still taste Faith on them and she smiled.

"We both want to do this right Will, so we are gonna try to go slow forming this relationship. But considering how sexy she is, it's killing me. I just want to take her in my arms and carry right up to my bedroom and never let her leave."

"Oh yeah, you got it bad." Willow laughed, but loved that Buffy finally admitted her feelings for Faith. "Listen we have to get going soon, so I'll drop her off at your place in a couple of hours."

"Thanks Will...for everything. But especially for trying to be friends with her. She may not say anything, but it does mean a lot to her."

"I think she tries really hard to hide her heart because she has been hurt so many times by so many people. It's hard for her to trust, but when she does...it's forever."

"Yeah, that's basically what Mom said earlier today. Did Faith tell you that we saw and spoke to her?"

"Yeah, she told me your mom forgave her and accepted the two of you as a couple. It brought tears, that she didn't want me to see, to her eyes."

"Me too Will. I guess I'll see you later. Take care of her for me."

"I will Buffy, bye." *They are gonna be so good together.*

Willow came back into the bedroom and saw Faith holding the leather coat. "Red, this fits perfectly...when I get a job, would you consider letting me buy this? I understand if you won't."

"You don't have to buy it Faith, keep it. It's way too long for me, and I don't do leather. Now, do you have shoes to match the dress?"

"I don't know why, but yeah I do. Black pumps, and I even have a matching purse. Ummm Red, what goes in a purse?" Faith looked shy and embarrassed.

Willow laughed out loud but stopped as she saw Faith pouting. Then both girls laughed together.

"Well you had to have used it before, what did you put in it then?" Willow thought a flustered Faith was just the funniest thing ever, but knew better than to tease...too much.

"Um, just a stake actually. I mean what else do I need?" The clueless look on Faith's face was priceless.

"Okay clueless, come here." Willow patted the bed and Faith pulled back for a moment then sat down waiting.

"You put your keys, smokes, lighter, Kleenex, makeup and considering your night job, a stake."

"Why do I need to put makeup in there? I will put it on before I go out." *Is she screwing with me?*

"Faith, you might need to touch up your lipstick after locking lips with Buffy." Willow loved that the dark Slayer was capable of blushing.

*Kissing Buffy...MMMMM* "Okay Red, and why the Kleenex?"

"They are the universal cleaner upper of messes."

"Right, you think I will make a mess?"

"Faith, why are you so nervous about going out with Buffy. I think you really love her, so what's the problem?"

"I do love her Red and I am so afraid I will screw this up." Faith chewed her bottom lip until Willow swatted her hand away.

"Kissing with a sore lip isn't fun."

Faith smiled shyly at the redhead.

"Stop worrying, just be yourself. She loves you Faith."

"Yeah, I know Red and it still floors me that she does." Faith was showing signs of being uncomfortable so Willow switched gears.

"I need to download and print some pictures of wolves for Peter. I did kind of promise to draw one for him, but I can't even draw stick people." Willow's face matched her hair.

"Gimme a piece of paper and a 4HH pencil Red."

"Paper I can do, what's a 4HH pencil?"

"Show me the pencils you have."

"Okay, here." Willow handed Faith several pencils and Faith explained the difference between each and what each was best used for.

"How do you know all that Faith?"

"Art was the one class I never skipped. I uhhhh...like drawing and if you tell anyone, I will deny it."

Using some of her Slayer speed, Faith sketched a lone wolf howling at the moon in under twenty minutes. Ten minutes more and it was properly shaded. She handed the picture to Willow.

"WOW! Faith, this is amazing. You have real talent," Willow gushed. "You have to give this to Peter yourself."

"Uh uh Red. I scare people, even when I'm not trying. You don't want me anywhere near kids."

"Bullshit!" Willow surprised herself, but didn't back down.

Faith's eyebrows shot up. *Red doesn't swear...often.*

"Faith, I know about your degree and I think you may be the person to help Peter. His father was a bastard who beat his mother while she was pregnant. It caused her to go into premature labour. Peter's twin sister was still born and he was born deaf and possible mute as well. He has been in his own little world for most of his whole life, all seven years of it. He just started learning sign language a few months ago."

Faith was silent as she took in all the Willow had said. "How did you find out about my degree?"

"Uhhh, Joyce told Buffy and she told me. Please don't get mad at either of them Faith, they just want to help you. So do I."

"What happened to Peter's father?"

"He went to jail and was killed in a knife fight and before you ask, his mother turned to heroin and died of an overdose."

Faith scowled for a minute. "Red can you lend me twenty bucks?"

"What for?"

"We can get him a stuffed wolf from the toy store."

"Sounds like a plan, just let me print a few pictures and we can go." Willow printed out three colour pictures of wolves and put them under Faith's drawing.

"Let's go." Willow picked up the pictures and grabbed Faith by the arm, dragging her out to the car.

AT THE TOY STORE

Faith went immediately over to the stuffed wolves. "Hey Red, check this one out, its perfect. A sales clerk over and nodded to Willow.

"Faith that one is more than I have with me. I'm sorry." Willow looked at her feet.

Faith looked at the clerk and said, "Is there anything I can do to earn this toy? It's for a special kid."

"I'll make you a deal. I will cover the difference if you can find someone to change my flat tire."

"Change a flat...that's all you want in exchange for this?" Faith couldn't believe she would get what she wanted that easily.

"Red give her the twenty bucks and I will go change the tire right now. Then we can go see Peter."

Willow handed over the money and the wolf was put into a box and then in a bag. Faith followed the clerk out to the parking lot and asked where the spare was. It only took her five minutes to change the flat. The clerk was impressed and thanked Faith repeatedly.

"No problem, the smile I hope that toy puts on Peter's face will be worth it."

Unbeknownst to Faith, the clerk slipped the twenty dollar bill into her pocket. Willow came out and asked Faith if she was ready to go.

"Yup, let's hit the road Red."

Chapter Four

AT THE ORPHANAGE

Willow parked in a lot across the street. Faith grabbed the pictures, leaving the toy for Willow to bring.

"Are you sure you want me to come in Red?" Faith was uncertain, again.

"Yes, Faith. I think this is where you are meant to be." Willow thought that Faith would be the one to reach Peter, if only she would trust herself.

The girls were greeted at the door by one of the counselors.

"Hi Willow, who's your friend?" He gave an approving look at the brunette.

"Anthony, this is Faith. Where's Peter, we have something for him." Willow looked around and didn't see Peter.

"Hi Faith, any and all help is gratefully accepted. Peter has a bit of a fever today, so he is lying down in his room. Go on up, he's been waiting for you."

"Faith, his room is the third on the left straight up those stairs, I'll join you in a few minutes." Willow pointed to the pictures, "Give those to him."

Faith looked scared for a minute. *Christ, I beat on butt ugly things that go bump in the night, so why does meeting a kid scare the hell outta me?* She found the right room and knocked gently. She hesitated for a moment, then walked in.

Faith made sure to look at Peter and to speak slowly. "Um, hi Peter. Willow will be here in a few minutes. My name is Faith."

Peter looked at Faith and shook his head. His fingers started moving, using the sign language he was learning.

Faith read his question and signed back, "My name is Faith. Willow brought these pictures for you and I drew this one. I hope you like it."

The small boy reached for the pictures. His face lit up like a Christmas tree when he saw the one that Faith had drawn. He pointed to Faith and to the picture. Faith signed, "Yes, I drew that." Peter held out his arms and Faith came forward to sit on the bed. She hugged him and found she liked the feeling.

When Willow came in, she saw Peter and Faith signing back and forth. "I didn't know you knew sign language Faith."

"Yeah, well...my first Watcher called it silent battle language. My telling her that people without Slayer sight, couldn't see what was being said at night didn't faze her. I learned it and never forgot it. You've been coming here forever Red, why didn't you learn it so you could talk to Peter?"

Willow's face matched her hair. "I am trying to learn it Faith, will you practice with me?"

"Sure thing Red, now get over here and at least say hi to this handsome little gentleman." Faith showed Willow that holding the first two fingers sideways, meant the letter 'h' and holding the pinkie upright was the letter 'i'. Together they said 'hi'.

Peter smiled and started signing fast, which confused the redhead. Faith reached over to slow down Peter's fingers and explained to him that Willow was still learning sign language.

Peter looked at Faith and signed a request and pointed to Willow.

"What did he just say Faith?" Willow loved that Faith could communicate with Peter. *I knew I was right. She belongs here with Peter and the rest of the kids.*

"He wants you to go ask the counselor if he can have a frame for the picture I drew." Faith took her coat off and the twenty-dollar bill fell out. "Hey Red! The manager slipped this into my pocket." Faith handed the bill to Willow and suggested a pizza run. "How many kids are here Red? Will twenty bucks buy enough pizza for everyone?"

"It will if you use your 'gimme what I want, or I'll mess ya up good' stare." Willow laughed and blushed, not believing she was actually teasing Faith and getting away with it.

"There's hope for ya yet Red. Do you think they would let me take Peter to the Pizza Hut down the street?"

"They might, if his fever is gone."

Faith gently placed her hand on Peter's forehead and cheeks. "Maybe next time, he's still a little warm."

Faith got up off of the bed and Peter reached for her again. She signed, 'I'm just gonna go get some pizza for everyone, I'll be right back.'

Peter got out of bed and swayed until Faith caught him. "Whoa there little dude." Faith noticed right away that Peter had on faux leather pants and smiled. Peter rubbed his hand on his pants and then Faith's. He signed, 'same.'

Faith laughed and signed, 'you have good taste in clothes Petey."

Peter smiled in a way Willow hadn't seen come from him...ever.

"Hey Red, don't you think you should give him his present?" Faith pointed to the bag Willow was absentmindedly carrying.

"Oh yeah, I forgot." The redhead tapped him on the shoulder and handed him the bag. Here Peter." He pulled out the box and opened it. When he saw the stuffed wolf, he hugged it tightly to his chest for a few minutes. He grabbed the small calendar on the desk and pointed to the circled date. Faith looked at it and grinned. She signed, 'me too.' Willow looked and saw that December 24th was circled and it said birthday. Peter decided then and there that Faith was his angel. He carefully set the toy down on his bed, went over to his desk and drew a picture for Faith. When he finished, he handed it to the brunette.

"For me Petey?" Faith took the drawing and almost cried. It depicted her holding his hand and they were blowing out candles on a birthday cake together.

"Faith, your birthday is Christmas Eve too?" Willow realized that in all the time she had known Faith, she never mentioned her birthday.

"Yeah, Red it is. Everyone's got one ya know?" Faith looked everywhere but at Willow.

Holidays weren't something Faith enjoyed too much. They were just days spent hiding and praying not to be found. Being found meant being used as a punching bag or worse.

"Faith, we have to have a party for you at the Bronze. Buffy will go nuts."

"No Red, please don't say anything to anyone. How about we plan a party for my man Petey instead." Faith didn't want a fuss made about her birthday. *Damn, gonna be twenty-one. I Never thought I would live this long.*

"If I tell Buffy, you'll beat me up and if I don't tell Buffy, she'll beat me silly. No fair, caught between two strong Slayers." Willow looked up and whispered, "Take me Lord...now would be good." Peter had been watching and now he squeezed Faith's hand to get her attention. He signed, 'will you come here Friday?'

Faith signed back, 'if they let me, I will.' "Hey Red, can we come here on Friday?"

"I don't see why not. You like Peter, don't you Faith?"

"Yeah Red, I do. Thanks for letting me come along with you." Faith pointed to the board games and asked the little boy which one he wanted to play.

Peter grabbed 'Snakes and Ladders.' Faith's eyebrows went up and she laughed. "Beware little dude, I used to be good at this at Juevie." *Shit, I'm glad I wasn't looking at him when I said that.*

"I know Red, inappropriate behavior." Faith looked ashamed of what she had said, grateful that Peter had, while setting up the game, missed the entire conversation.

"Okay, you two play nice and I'll go order the pizza. I still think you should pick it up Faith. Growl at them and maybe you can get a bottle of pop thrown in for free." Willow blushed, not believing her boldness at asking the brunette to get extra's for free. *It's for the kids.*

When Willow got back she heard laughter coming from both the dark Slayer and the little boy. She walked in and saw Faith running her man down the longest snake on the board. Peter was giggling and pointing to his man, which was on the top of the longest ladder.

Faith signed, 'the game ain't over til it's over Little Dude." Faith watched as Peter rolled the exact number he needed to win. She signed, 'Okay, now it's over, but I want a rematch later k?"

Peter nodded vigorously and looked at Faith with dancing eyes. He tried to speak, but all that came out was a mumbled Faaa. But to a Slayer's ears, it said Faith.

Willow squealed and ran for a counselor. Faith gently adjusted Peter's lips and slowly pronounced her name again.

"Faaaa...iiittthhhh," spit flew everywhere. Peter ran and jumped up into the stunned brunette's arms.

Anthony came back in with Willow. "I understand someone is getting chatty now." He saw Peter in the beautiful girls arms and waited patiently for them to disentangle from each other before asking Peter to repeat what he had tried to say.

"Can you say something else for us Peter?" Anthony had known all along that Peter had the ability to speak, but hadn't used it.

Peter looked at Faith again and said clearly, "Faaa...iitthh...fri..en..." Faith cupped his small lips to add the 'd' to friend. She heartily agreed that she was his friend.

Anthony and Willow clapped loudly. This brought the rest of the kids and workers to the small room.

"What's the ruckus all about Tony?" The director of the facility asked.

"That gorgeous brunette got through to Peter. He spoke her name and called her his friend. It was amazing."

"Who are you and why are you here Miss?" The Director asked Faith.

"Ummm, I came with Willow to see Peter. She told me he was deaf, but only MAYBE mute. I would like to come here more often to help him...if you'll let me."

"Anthony, Faith has a degree in ECE with honors. She would be a great addition here, don't you think?"

"Will! I just wanna help Petey, getting a paying job can wait." Faith knew that since she was the one that had reached Peter, she would have to stay in his life or the small boy would crawl back into his shell again.

"What University did you graduate from? And what is your name?" The Director was not a man to waste words.

"Boston University and my name is Faith Winters." Faith felt tingly all over and wondered if this meant something good was going to happen or if she was reading too much into it.

"Well Miss Winters, we aren't budgeted for another full time worker, but we can hire you part-time. How does noon until five o'clock, five days a week at twelve dollars an hour sound to you?"

"When can I start? UMMPHHHHH," Faith found herself sandwiched between an excited Willow and an ecstatic Peter.

"Well how about tomorrow? That way you will receive a small check in time for Christmas. I need to check out your references first of course, but I don't see a problem. Anthony, get Miss Winters five sweatshirts with our logo on it. Jeans are preferable to leather pants. Will that be a problem?"

"No sir, I have a few pairs of black jeans and I will get some more each week. Thank you for giving me this chance."

"Peter will be your main concern, but not your only one. I think that during dinner, you should speak to some of the other kids too."

"I...I can do that." Faith felt overwhelmed and her nervousness was apparent. *These people really want me here." She smiled at Willow, who smiled back.

"Do you drive Miss Winters?"

"I have a license, but I don't have a car sir." Faith sucked in her bottom lip. *Please don't let this interfere with the job.*

"Okay, I'll get you some bus tickets for the next three days. We do supply a monthly bus pass, but since it's too late this month, I'll see to it you have the tickets. On Friday, come see me and I will give more for next week. Welcome aboard Miss Winters."

Faith grinned like a loon and it was she could do not do a little happy dance. Not thinking, she kissed the Director on the cheek. "Thanks Boss Man. You won't be sorry."

"Hrumphhh, uhhh yes Miss Winters, see to it that I'm not." He smiled to himself as he walked back to his office. *She's young, but I see an old soul in her eyes.*

"I know Red, kissing the boss...not cool." Faith laughed.

"I don't think he minded Faith, got one for me too?" Anthony pointed to his cheek, grinning expectantly.

"Sure T-Man." Faith leaned over and kissed the offered cheek.

"I'll never wash it again," he said sighing contently.

Faith swatted him on the arm and Peter poked him in the ribs.

"Hey, no fair. Two against one. I'll fix you junior." Anthony started tickling Peter. Anthony found himself being lifted off the ground. He saw Faith holding him by the shirt and shaking her finger at him. "Don't get him riled up, it's almost dinner time."

"ULP...yes M'am. Can you put me down now?"

"The magic word is?" Faith smirked as Peter and Willow just laughed.

"Please, put me down and I promise not get him all excited again." *Damn, she's a lot stronger than she looks. I better mind my 'p's and q's around her.*

Faith heard the doorbell. "Pizza's here, Red. Where do I bring Petey?"

"Follow me Faith." Willow took the money and went to pay for the pizza's. They had thrown in two large bottles of pop for free. Willow and Faith cut the pizza into square slices. Anthony had rounded up the rest of the kids and workers. Paper plates and napkins were on the table beside the open boxes of pizza. One had pepperoni on it and the other was plain cheese.

"PIZZA!!!" Several kids yelled and lined up. Faith handed out the pepperoni slices and Willow handed out the cheese ones. Once everyone had a slice of each, they all sat down and began eating. Peter, of course sat next to Faith. The hero worship in his eyes was unmistakable.

Faith signed to Peter that she was going to take a couple of slices to the Director and she would be right back. She asked where his office was and headed off carrying the plate with two slices of pizza on it.

AT THE DIRECTOR'S OFFICE

Faith knocked and waited to be told to come in.

"Come in."

Faith walked in and handed the plate to the Director.

"Thank you Faith. I just spoke to one of your instructors from Boston University. She said you have a special way with kids who come from abused families. I need to know that you will stick around for Peter's sake, as well as the rest of these kids. Will you?"

"I'm not going anywhere. I like Petey."

"He obviously cares a great deal about you too Miss Winters. Your name was the first word he has ever spoken. I think you may be just what he needs. I see that one of the courses you gained honors in was speech therapy. Will you be able to work that in with Peter?"

"Already planned Boss Man. He just needs to practice mouthing words and then breathing properly. Do you have flash cards that I can use?" Faith was already three steps ahead.

"I don't know, I will have Anthony look around. Could you use kids books if we don't?"

"Yeah, books work too. I need books about wolves and other animals. Also, I would like to see his medical records. I need to know if his deafness is total and permanent. If there is even a small range of sound he can hear, I can work with that. But I don't want to waste his time with frustrating exercises that won't gain him anything. When was the last time his hearing was actually tested?"

"I will try to find his medical records for you, but for now, just help him to speak. We know of his obsession with wolves and there are a couple of books you can use to start with. I think you will be a great addition to our staff. Now why don't you get back to the kids and make sure they clean up after themselves."

"Okay, Boss Man. Clean up squad in da house." Faith chuckled as she left the office.

When she got back to the dinning room, she saw the Willow and Peter had cleaned up and were just waiting for the brunette to come back. Willow pointed to her watch when Peter wasn't looking.

"Faaa...iitthhh," Peter handed Faith a slim paperback. Faith smiled, took the book and opened it. She patted the floor in front of her and Peter sat down.

"Red, will you call B and tell her we will be a bit longer, please?" Faith started signing the words in the book while showing Peter the pictures.

Willow nodded and went to call Buffy.

AT BUFFY'S HOUSE

RING RING

*That better be Willow or Faith, it's been over three hours.*

"Hello?"

"Hi Buffy, Faith asked me to call to tell you that we will be a little while longer. She's reading a book to Peter right now."

"Isn't that the deaf kid?"

"Yes, why?"

"Well how will he hear what Faith is reading to him?"

"Buffy, Faith knows sign language and she talks to him that way. And you'll never believe what happened."

"Tell me." Buffy felt her stomach doing flip flops.

"He spoke...he said Faith's name. Buffy, you should have seen it, it was like finding the Holy Grail or something. The Director hired her part-time starting tomorrow. She will work with Peter most of the time, but be here for the other kids too. She really is amazing Buffy. I didn't know she could be so compassionate or thoughtful for anyone but you."

"WOW Will, she does good work huh?" Buffy promised herself, nothing Faith did would surprise her again. *Yeah right.*

"She does great work Buffy. She had done more for Peter in the last three hours than anyone has been able to do for years. Don't be surprised if your dinner conversation is full of Peter this and Peter that."

"Thanks for doing this for her Will, I appreciate it." Buffy was glad that her best friend and soon to be girlfriend were getting along so well.

"I didn't do it for you or even for her Buffy. I did it for Peter. Listen, I bet you didn't know that this Friday, Christmas Eve, is her twenty-first birthday...did you?"

"No, I didn't. Oh man, now I need to get her a birthday present and Christmas present. What should I get her?" Buffy's mind pictured exotic things and she shook her head. *Slow down there girl, ya don't wanna scare her away.*

"Well, leather pants are a 'no no' around here. So I would suggest that you get her a pair of blue or black jeans and maybe a pair of running shoes."

"That's a great idea Will. Wanna go shopping with me tomorrow while she goes to work there?" *Faith working and happy...gotta like it.*

"Sounds like a plan to me and I want to hear all about your first date too." Willow knew that both Slayers were nervous as all get out about it.

"We'll see Will. Now as soon as she finishes reading to the kid, bring her home. Our reservation is for seven thirty. I want to have plenty of time to get ready and it's already five thirty."

"Eager much Buffy?" Willow laughed, remembering how long it took for Buffy to get ready for a date. Faith would just shower, dress and be ready in about a half hour.

"You have no idea Will." Buffy wanted to spend as much time with the sexy brunette as possible.

"I'll bring her back in one piece soon Buffy, don't worry."

"Not worried," Willow didn't need to see Buffy to know that she was pouting. *She looks so cute when she pouts. Faith won't be able to resist her.*

"Just anxious." Willow stifled the giggle this time.

"Yeah...I mean no...Willllll!!!" The blonde exclaimed showing her exasperation. Buffy blushed from the roots of her hair to the tips of her toes.

Faith came out into the hall and Peter was holding her hand. Willow smiled at both and handed the phone to Faith.

"Hi B, I got a job!" Faith's excitement was contagious.

"Well then, we have even more reason to celebrate tonight."

"Umm, B?"

"Yeah Faith?"

"Hang on for a moment, Petey wants to say hello." Faith handed Peter the phone and signed, 'say hello to Buffy.' Faith put the phone on speaker.

"Hellloooo....Bufff." Peter shouted out loud.

Faith knew that Buffy would have pulled the phone away from her ear.

"Hello Peter, oops...Faith tell him I said hello back at him."

Faith signed Buffy's response and Peter smiled. "Hey B, I gotta get Petey changed for bed. I'll see you soon, you have no idea how much I'm looking forward to our date tonight."

"Me too Faith. See you soon."

Faith took Peter upstairs and ran a bath for him. "I know you are a big boy, so I will wait here while you take your bath."

Peter kissed Faith and grabbed his pj's. He took the quickest bath on record. When he came out, he was already in his pj's. Faith tucked him into bed and signed another story for him. He fell asleep half way through it, so Faith placed a bookmark in it and put it on the nightstand. She leaned down and gently kissed the little boy on the forehead. "See ya tomorrow Little Dude."

Faith went to look for Anthony. When she found him, she asked that he check on Petey a little later. "His fever is down, but keep an eye on him please."

"I will Faith. I need to give him the medication in two hours, so for now, I will let him sleep. You really are good with him."

"He's a great kid, I just wanna help him." Faith was surprised at how quick the kid had gotten under her skin.

"See you tomorrow at lunch time Faith." Anthony went about his business.

"Come on Faith, if I don't get you home soon, Buffy will kill me." Willow loved the look on Faith's face whenever she mentioned the blonde Slayer's name. "We need to stop back at my place to pick up the dress and coat. Consider the coat an early birthday present."

"Really Red?" Faith couldn't believe how much help the redhead had been for her today.

"Yes, really Faith. Let's go."

BACK AT WILLOW'S APARTMENT

Willow ran upstairs and put the dress and coat in a plastic dry cleaner bag and brought both downstairs. She found Faith at the kitchen table drawing another picture for Peter. This one showed three cubs playing with a rolled up armadillo. The curiosity of the cubs was clearly shown in the eyes of the cubs.

"That's...that's, WOW Faith. Peter is gonna love that one too. Could you maybe draw me a unicorn or winged horse that I can frame?"

Faith flipped the page over and started drawing a river. She then drew a unicorn on one side and a winged horse on the other side. She shaded the picture and in ten minutes she handed it to the waiting redhead.

"I can do a better one when I have more time. But I need to go get ready for my date with B. Can you drive there...now?"

"This is perfect Faith, and yes we can go now. Here is your dress and coat. Faith took the plastic bag. Her hands were shaking so Willow gently cupped them saying, "Relax Faith, it will be an evening neither of you will ever forget."

Faith's face fell. Visions of vamps spoiling their date, and of Faith saying the wrong things, ran through her mind.

"I mean in a good way," Willow said quickly.

"Do you want some help with your make-up Faith?"

Faith nodded. "I don't want to...to look...ughhhh."

"Come on nervous girl, let's get you ready." Willow took the dress and followed Faith to the front door which was thrown open by Buffy.

"Faith! You're finally here." Buffy brought the dark girl into her arms and kissed her with a passion she barely recognized.

Willow walked by the lip locked Slayers and sat down on the couch. *They look good together. I hope their nervousness cancels out so that they can enjoy this evening.*

When Faith pulled back out of a need for oxygen, she sighed contentedly...again. *Kissing B is like an addiction. I want more...lots more.*

Buffy felt the cool air where Faith's lip's were and she wanted to feel the warmth again. Willow grabbed Faith's hand, "Which room is yours? Buffy, you need to go get ready and I will help Faith."

Buffy scowled, she wanted to help Faith get dressed and...*Okay mind, see if you can stay out of the gutter for a little while longer.*

Buffy hurried upstairs without a backward glance.

Willow followed Faith up to her room. "Okay, you go shower and I will set out your dress and make-up. Scram," Willow shoved the brunette towards the bathroom. When she heard the shower start, she laid out the dress on the bed and began to take out the make-up she had brought.

Chapter Five

Faith went into the bathroom to take a shower. She didn't like feeling nervous. She seriously prayed for the first time in her life, *Please God, don't let me fuck this up.*

Buffy stripped and got in the shower in her room. *I have a date with the most beautiful woman in the world. Now if only I can control myself. I know I have to show Faith that I really love her and don't just wanna jump her gorgeous body.*

Willow could feel the nervous vibes emanating from the bathroom where Faith had disappeared to, and she tried hard not to giggle. She knew that wouldn't help anyone.

When Faith came out, Willow saw that she had somehow made peace with herself.

"I do deserve to be happy with B, don't I Red?" Faith asked softly.

"Yes Faith, you do. Now start getting dressed, I have the make-up ready for you."

"Why are you so willing to help me Red? I really do appreciate it, but I need to know why."

"You really don't remember do you?" Willow looked over at the brunette.

"HUH? Remember what Red?" Faith was putting on pantyhose and hopping around in a comical fashion.

"You were the first to see how Tara and I felt about each other." Willow voice cracked when she mentioned her dead lover's name. "You told me to go for it or I would always wonder what could have happened. I also know you talked to Tara. It was because of you that we...we were so happy, even though it was only for a little while. That's the kind of happiness I want for you and Buffy."

Faith blushed deeply. No one had ever spoke to her like that.

"I can see why B chose you as her best bud. You really are an amazing friend Red." Faith picked up the dress and was about to put it on when Willow handed her a bra.

"UGH...Red. Do I have to?" Faith whined holding out the bra at arms length like a piece of roadkill.

"Yes, now put it on and you better have put underwear on too Faith." This time it was Willow who blushed and looked away.

"I do. Or the pantyhose would drive me nuts." *B is worth it, B is worth it.* This became Faith's new mantra.

Buffy got out of the shower and threw open her closet door. She grabbed a red silk body fitting dress that had silver threads running through it. Needless to say, it was bought at the same time as the dress borrowed from Tara. She quickly dressed and put on a little bit of make-up. Last, she put on the cross that Faith had bought her when she first came to town.

Faith was fidgeting as Willow tried to put on her make-up. Finally an exasperated Willow said, "Hold still Faith or you will look something out of the Creature From The Black Lagoon."

Faith stilled and she gave a shy smile to the redhead. "I'm sorry Red, I'm just...antsy ya know?"

"Faith, you could be wearing a burlap bag and Buffy wouldn't care. She loves you and you love her. So chill out, everything will be fine as long as you both get over this nervous thing you got going."

"B...nervous? Not bloody likely Red. She is so together."

"Wanna bet? I can feel the vibes coming from down the hall, she is just as nervous and afraid of screwing up tonight as you are."

"I think you have been smelling your potions again Red. Buffy doesn't do nervous."

"Neither do you Faith." Willow put the finishing touches on Faith's make-up. "Well? How do you like it?"

Faith slowly turned to look at herself in the mirror. "WOW! That's me?"

"Yes Faith, that's you," Willow said in a parental tone of voice. Now you stay here and I will go check on Buffy."

"Tell her...I..uh." Faith stuttered and then blushed.

"She knows that you love her Faith, but you can tell her later. Those three magic words never lose their power. I'll be right back."

Willow went down to Buffy's room and knocked gently. "Buffy? Can I come in?"

"Sure Will, come in."

Willow walked in and stared at the dress Buffy was wearing. She remembered the day that she, Buffy and Tara had gone shopping to buy the dress. "Faith is gonna love that dress on you Buffy."

"I hope so Will, I just want everything to be perfect for Faith. She means everything to me and I am so afraid that I will scare her away."

"You won't, the two of you belong together Buffy. So just chill and let things happen naturally. She loves you so much Buffy. It scares her, she doesn't think she deserves to be loved. You already know to go slow, even if it is driving you nuts."

"God Will, she is so beautiful inside and out. She really is a compassionate person. I never took the time to see her...really see HER. When she smiles at me, a real smile...it lights up her whole face and I just wanna take her in my arms and never let her go."

"Yup, you got it bad Buffy...as bad as she does." Willow laughed.

"We need to get you two on your merry way before you both chicken out. Let's go Buffy." Willow walked out and back to Faith's room.

Faith saw the redhead and smiled, "Is she ready?"

"Yes Faith, let's go."

Faith followed Willow out into the hall and what she saw caused her to freeze. Buffy was standing there playing with a piece of her hair.

When Buffy looked up, she saw Faith.

Both women growled deeply in appreciation of how the other looked. The smoldering looks being given caught Willow by surprise. The intensity was off scale.

"Whoa, down girls. You almost turned me to ashes with the way you are looking...did I say looking? What I meant to say was devouring each other. Fresh air...cool air. The kind you get going to dinner. Food is good and I'm gonna stop talking now."

"Babbling Will." Buffy smiled.

"Babbling Red." Faith poked her in the ribs.

"Ummm, ya right. You two need to get going, or you'll never leave." Seeing the looks the Slayers were giving each other, Willow said," And not leaving is not an option."

"Coming mother." Faith said happily.

Willow scowled and took both girls by the arms and led them downstairs and out to her car. "I'll drop you off at the restaurant and I'm sure you can make you way home later."

"Later...yeah," Faith grinned lasciviously at her soon to be mate.

Buffy returned the grin and reached for the brunette's hand.

*Man they are so hot for each other, I wonder if they will be able to sit through dinner.* Willow's musings were cut short as she pulled up in front of the fancy restaurant that Buffy had made reservations at.

"Faith, don't forget you have to be at work tomorrow by noon. Do you want me to drive you?"

"No, it's okay Red. The director gave me car tickets and I wouldn't dare be late, especially on the first day. Besides, I'm looking forward to seeing Petey."

"Okay Faith, he will be waiting for you."

"You might wanna call me around eleven, just to make sure I'm upwardly mobile." Faith grinned, thinking about what she hoped would happen later.

"I will Faith. Have fun you two." Willow took one last look at the Slayers and smiled at them, giving them the universal shooing gesture.

Faith and Buffy walked hand in hand into the restaurant. Buffy told the maitre de their names and they were shown to a small table lit with candles. After being seated, they were handed menu's. "I will send a waiter over in a few minutes."

"Thank you." Buffy opened the menu and peeked over the top of it. She saw Faith doing the same and both cracked up. When the waiter came by, they both ordered the surf and turf special.

Buffy reached over to run her finger gently across Faith's jaw line. Faith leaned into the soft touch and sighed. They only had eyes for each other until their dinner arrived. When they finished the waiter brought dessert menus.

"B ya gotta try Cherries Jubilee. Don't freak out, it is supposed to be on fire to start with."

"Okay, I'll trust you. How do you know about it?" Buffy wondered how, where and when Faith had tasted such a rich dessert.

"My first Watcher took me out to dinner for my sixteenth birthday and she ordered it. It was fantastic. Unless you don't like cherries and brandy that is."

"I'm game, order it for me. I need to go to the little girls room, I'll be right back." Buffy gave the brunette a whisper of a kiss on the cheek as she passed by. Faith smiled and put her hand up to catch the waiter's attention. She ordered two large Cherries Jubilee.

"*B will love this...I hope. God she is so beautiful tonight, well always, but tonight...WOW.* Faith pleasant musings were interrupted when a large shadow came over the table. Faith looked up and blanched. Her breath caught in her throat. She was frozen in fear. *Can't show how scared I am. Breathe Faith, breath Faith. Gotta get rid of him before B gets back.*

"Well Faith, you are a hard lady to track down." He started playing with his snake ring as he sat down across from Faith.

"Whatever you have to say, I'm not interested. We will bring you and your friends down. You should leave...NOW!" Faith was reaching into her purse to grab her stake. For the split second when she turned from the man, he grabbed her right hand and held it over the candle until both could smell burning flesh. Faith wouldn't give him the satisfaction of crying out or showing her pain. Her lips were pressed tightly together as she finally managed to pull her hand back out of the flame.

"You will come back to the fold or the redhead, your girlfriend and that deaf kid will pay the price. You have twenty-fours to present yourself to me. You know where, I will be expecting you. Oh and Faith, I have an undead army to help persuade you."

Faith growled more in anger than pain. She curled her injured right hand and tried to find her centre. *There is no pain, there is no pain. Like hell there isn't. Damn him, what the hell do I do now?*

The manager of the restaurant came over as soon as the man left.

"Security tossed him out and he will not be allowed back in. Would you like me to call the paramedics to look at your hand?"

"No, I will have it checked out by my doctor as soon as my date gets back. I could use a phone though."

"Right away." The manager hurried away and brought back a phone for Faith to use.

Faith thanked the manager and carefully holding the phone in her left hand, she used the fingernail on the first finger of her burned hand to dial. *Come on, come on pick up.*

"Hello?"

"RED! I need you to perform the best mojo of your life. 'He' was here, he threatened you, B and Petey. I need you to make with the protection spell right fucking now."

"Faith? What happened? Where is Buffy?" Willow's fear could be heard in her voice.

"He was here, he made me a offer and I refused. I only have one day to...to protect the three of you before this bastard goes off side. Do you still need a personal item from people you want to put the protection spell on?"

"Yes, Faith I do. I'm sorry your date was so rudely interrupted. But you still didn't answer where Buffy is."

"She is in the ladies room. She is unhurt Will. I won't let him hurt her, you or Petey...I promise. As soon as B gets back to the table, I'll send her to you. I can go get something of Petey's and get out quick. I'll meet you at your place. Take care of B for me." Faith hung up just as Buffy walked past her.

Buffy sat back down and she wasn't happy. She had heard the last part of the conversation.

"Faith what is going on?" Buffy noticed that Faith was keeping her right hand hidden. She reached out to take the brunette's hand...and said, "OH MY GOD! Faith! What happened to your hand?"

"You need to go to Red's place while I go get something from Petey. Red will explain. Come on, we need to leave now."

The manager came back and asked if they would prefer their desserts to be takeout.

"Yes, but make it three please." Faith waved him off after thanking him. Looking at Buffy, Faith said, "I think Red will need a sugar rush to do what I asked her to do."

"Faith, why didn't you ask her to protect you too?" Buffy was both angry that Faith had been hurt and threatened and scared of what would happen next.

"Red will protect me....after the people who are most important to me. Again everything gets fucked up because of me. B, I'm so sorry. I wanted tonight to be special and..." Faith was almost in tears, but still had enough 'tough girl' in her to prevent the tears from falling. It wouldn't do to be seen crying in public.

When the manager brought back their desserts to go he said, "You bill has been taken care of and we would like to offer you both a rain check. He held out the paper and Faith smiled and took it. Grabbing their coats and juggling the desserts, the girls left the restaurant.

Faith hailed two cabs, "B go home and grab our patrolling clothes and I will meet you at Red's place in a little while. Be careful B, I don't want anything to happen to you."

"You be careful too Faith." Buffy knew better than to argue with the brunette at this point. But they would have words later.

AT THE OPHANAGE

Faith quietly climbed the tree next to Peter's room and slipped in soundlessly. She went into the bathroom and took a few hairs out of his brush. She also grabbed his blue crayon on the table. She took a minute to check on the small boy. *Damn, he still had a fever.* She went back into the bathroom and got a cold washcloth. She placed it gently on his forehead before kissing him on the top of the head. She whispered, "See ya tomorrow little dude, I hope you are feeling better then." Faith left the same way she came in. Once down on the street again, she realized she had no money for a cab to get to Willow's.

A well placed smack on the side of a payphone and voila.

RING RING

"Hello?"

"Hi Red, it's me. Did B make it there safely?"

"She is just driving in now. Where are you? Are you okay?"

"If you have some magic cream to take the sting out of a burn, I wouldn't say no. I'm down the street from the Orphanage. I uhhh...don't have any money to take a cab to your place. B gave me the money to get here. It will take me about thirty minutes to walk there. Hang on to B, no matter what you have to do."

"Uhhh Faith, Buffy heard our conversation and she...she is on her way to pick you up. Go back to the front entrance and she will be there soon."

"Fuck...Red, it's not safe out here. Did you do the protection thing for her yet?"

"Just finishing it now and I did it for you first because I knew you would be out there trying to protect all of us. So you two should be safe until you get back here. And Faith?

"Yeah Red?"

"I do have burn ointment waiting for you. Please be careful, you are important to more than just Buffy. You're my friend now too, don't make me turn you into a frog." Willow laughed but Faith didn't.

"Gulp, being careful Red. I promise." Faith smiled, she wasn't used to people caring, really caring about her.

"Red?"

"Yes Faith?"

"Do you blame me or will Buffy blame me for what's gonna happen?" Faith was learning to like being part of a group and she didn't want to lose that feeling.

"Of course not Faith. Contrary to your belief, you are not responsible for everything bad that happens here. What ever happens, IT'S NOT YOUR FAULT. Repeat after me, it's not my fault."

"But Red, it is my fault. He wants me to work for or with him and my saying no is what pissed him off. Fuck! if he hurts any of you..."

"Faith, do you honestly believe that if you had said yes to his offer, that he wouldn't track us down and do whatever he pleases anyway?"

"FUCK!!!!" Faith slid down the glass wall of the phone booth. Her hands covering her face as the tears of anger, fear and uncertainty took over.

TAP TAP

Faith looked up and saw the most beautiful site. Buffy was there and she was holding out her hand.

"Red, B is here now. We will see you soon. Bye." Faith got up and opened the booth. Buffy pulled the upset brunette into her arms and hugged her tightly.

"It's gonna be okay Faith. I'm here." Buffy hated seeing Faith in so much pain. *Christ, when does she get a break? When do WE get a break?*

Faith loved the warmth of being in Buffy's arms. For the first time in her short life, she felt safe and loved.

Buffy walked Faith over to the car and put her in. She put the seatbelt on her and kissed her gently on the lips. Shutting the door, she ran around and got in the driver's side and put her seatbelt on. Faith still clutched the hairs and crayon in her left hand.

BACK AT WILLOW'S APARTMENT

Willow was pacing back and forth. She hated waiting...waiting for what she wasn't sure. "Please Goddess, protect them both and lead them back here safely."

A few minutes later the redhead heard a car pull in the parking lot out back. She raced to her door and swung it open. Buffy had her arm around Faith's waist and they looked scared, each for the same reason.

*God, don't let Faith be hurt anymore...please.* Buffy wanted to hurt the man that had burned Faith.

*If you exist God, protect B. She's one of the good guys.* Faith didn't want Buffy involved in this problem but knew she would get several severe ass kicking if she tried to keep the blonde out of the loop.

Willow went into 'mother-hen' mode as soon as she saw Faith's hand. "Sit down Faith, let me take care of your hand."

Buffy snatched the ointment from Willow's hand. "I can do that Will, you need to cast the protection spell on the kid," Buffy said in a jealous voice that even she was ashamed of. "Sorry Will, didn't mean that the way it sounded."

"B! It can wait, Slayer Healing remember?" Faith watched in fascination as the witch cast the spell of protection on Peter.

"Done," the tired redhead said. I put the strongest spell I could do on all of us.

"B, since I have to go to work tomorrow, I can keep an eye on Petey. I really need you to shadow Red. Now, where are my clothes?"

"Here Faith, you know I can patrol by myself. You can't hold a stake in that hand. Maybe you should stay..." Buffy's words were cut off by Faith shushing her.

"Don't go there B. We will patrol together and that's final. Just give me a minute to change. Faith grabbed her leather pants and black turtleneck and went into the bathroom to change. After hanging up the dress and changing, Faith slipped quietly out the window. *I won't let that bastard hurt the people I lo...care about.*

"Will, she thinks this is all her fault. How do I convince her that it's not?" Buffy felt guilty about not knowing how to help the woman she loved.

"Just keep telling her that. This isn't just Faith believing she is a screw up, which she isn't," Willow added hastily. "Her heart is involved now and she will do anything to protect you, me and Peter. Even if it means losing herself again."

"I won't let that happen Will. I just got her back." The possessiveness in Buffy's voice silenced anything the witch may have wanted to say.

"Come on Faith, get a move on. Let's go." Buffy yelled in the general direction of the bathroom.

Willow looked over at the bathroom door, "Buffy?"

"She's gone, isn't she?" Buffy ran to the door and pounded on it. "FAITH!" The blonde stepped back and shouldered the door open. She saw the open window and knew Faith had gone to try to deal with the problem on her own. *Shit and she got pissed when I wanted to go alone. Just you wait till I get my hands on you Faith.*

"Will, can you do a locator spell?"

"On it Buffy." Willow was chanting some long dead language and looking into a bowl of colored water. She went into the bathroom and saw the dress; she pulled a hair off the shoulder and put it into the blue water in the bowl on the table. She saw a fuzzy Faith and it took a moment to clarify. "Buffy, she's at the mansion and she's gonna make a deal to protect all of us. You better hurry."

SLAM! Willow felt the front door close and she began praying for the safety of both Slayers.

Buffy peeled outta the parking lot and drove like a woman possessed. She arrived at the mansion in ten minutes. She was outta the car and running before the engine stopped.

IN THE MAIN OFFICE AT THE MANSION

"Well Faith, I think we both know why you're here."

"You and your fucking army leave my friends alone in perpetuity and I will do whatever you want."

"Like Hell you will Faith." Buffy said as she rushed in.

"B, Damn how did?...Red. You have to leave now."

"I'm afraid it's too late for that now Faith. Will you be on the winning side or the dying?"

Both girls Slayer senses went off the wall. They automatically turned back to back in a classic fighting position.

"The Chosen Two will win asshole, it's what we do, right Faith?"

"Damn B! Fasten your seatbelt, it's gonna be a bumpy ride."

"When this is over, we are going to have a long talk about this death wish of yours Faith." Buffy staked a vamp and he exploded into dust.

"I don't have a death wish B, but if someone has to die...better me than you." Faith dropped kicked a vamp and staked him.

"Neither of us has to die Faith. These vamps are of the stupid variety." Buffy threw two fangboys into the wall. Faith dusted them both.

*Fuck, there are too many of them. Gotta get B outta here.* Faith turned and grabbed Buffy around the waist and headed for the window. "GO! protect Red and Peter for me." Faith shoved the smaller blonde out the window just as she felt a bullet go through her left thigh.

"FUCK!" Faith watched as Buffy fell to the ground before turning to fight.

Vamp dust was flying, Faith had never felt so powerful. She staked a half dozen in minutes. She lost sight of the bastard that shot her but was kind of busy dusting the hired help. She knew the adrenaline would wear off soon and she would be helpless. *Gonna take as many of these fucks with me as I can. Sorry we won't get to finish out date B.*

Buffy had landed on her tailbone and wasn't happy. "FAITH! Buffy felt the hairs on her neck stand up. She looked around and saw her mother float up to the window and disappear.

Faith felt a new surge of energy and dusted the last five vampires before collapsing on the floor.

"Mrs S?" Faith turned to look, but her leg reminded her that moving that way was a mistake. She groaned. "Is B safe? Is Red and Petey?"

"Can't let B be hurt because of me...again," Faith said between gasps of pain. "Where is snake-ring guy?"

"Not for long, he hates losing. He's gonna be even more pissed now. Can you help me up?"

<Actually," Joyce put her hand on the bullet wound and Faith felt a rush of warmth and electricity run through her. When she looked down at the wound, she saw it was almost healed.

"Thanks Mrs. S....uh Joyce."

"His only weakness is diamonds. So unless you know of a cursed diamond..." Faith said as she stood up slowly.

Joyce started to fade, but not before hugging Faith and telling her how much Buffy loves her. <I'll be here when either of you need me. Take care of yourself as well as everyone else close to you Faith. I love you.>

Faith went over to the phone and called Giles.

"Hey G-Man, I need you research something Joyce told me."

"Joyce?...Buffy's mother?" Giles was understandably confused.

"Yes, G-Man. She wanted me to repeat these words exactly... Ireland 1438. When you figure out what that means, I'm supposed to call Angel."

"Do you have any idea what this is about Faith?"

"Yeah, kind of. I think it's about a cursed diamond of some kind. Diamonds are his only weakness. I'll drop by on my way to work tomorrow, if that's okay with you?"

"Of course it is. I will have something by then. Are you alright Faith? Are you injured?" Giles had visions of a badly hurt Faith run through his mind and he didn't like that one bit.

"I'll be fine G-Man. Joyce healed most of the damage for me. I told B to get back to Willow. Can you call there and let them know I'm on my way back to them?"

"Where are you Faith, I will come and get you."

"Naw, it's okay G-Man. I need to walk the stiffness out anyway, but thanks."

"Stiffness? What exactly did Joyce heal?"

"Relax, the bullet went right through."

"Bullet?" Giles put on his worried face.

"Ruined my favorite pair of pants too."

"Faith please, I'll get you a new pair of pants. Now how badly were you shot?"

"It went through my upper left thigh and now it's just itchy. One night of Slayer healing and I will be fine. Thanks for worrying about me. I'll see you tomorrow morning about 11:30am if that's okay? Oh and G-Man...I take size six."

"I would think that size six would be tighter than your skin. You'll see me in a few minutes missy. Stay there."

"Zig Hiel LP, and that's the whole point of leather pants." Faith smirked. She knew Giles would, against his better judgment, ask what that stood for.

"LP? Do I want to know what that stands for?" Giles gritted his teeth. *Why do I bother?*

"Limey Peeper." Faith laughed. She could picture Giles scrunching up his face, and shaking his head.

"Hrumphhhh, as annoying as G-Man is...it is preferable to that, thank you very much," Giles said as his stiff upper lip trembled and his eyes flashed, showing a bit of the old 'Ripper'.

"Okay G-Man. Hurry up, I need to see that B and Red are okay."

"Yes well, you still haven't told me where you are."

"Ooops, me bad. I'm at the mansion. I'll be waiting outside for you."

Chapter Six

Giles pulled up in front of the mansion and looked around for the dark Slayer. He found her asleep on the porch. Gently shaking her, hoping not to get a shot upside the head for his trouble, Giles leaned down and spoke softly, " Faith?"

"G'way...sleeping." Faith grumbled.

Giles leaned down and noticing the dried blood on young girl's leg, carefully picked her up and carried her to his car.

"Huh?, whazzhappening?" Faith opened her eyes and looked around. She grabbed the arm in front of her, ready to do damage.

"Faith, please. I will need that arm to drive you back to Willow's."

Faith blinked, and let go. "Sorry G-Man, I thought..."

"It's okay Faith. My god, what happened to you?" Giles was not amused when one of his Slayers was injured.

"He didn't like me saying no. He burned my hand and threatened B, Red and Petey. So I was gonna make a deal to protect everyone and B crashed the party. I kind of tossed her out of a window, got shot, ummm...dusted the rest of the hired help, and Joyce came and healed me. She gave me the message to give you and she left again. Oh FUCK!!! Did B get back to Red's place safely?" Faith began to panic, thinking about what could have happened to her blonde counterpart.

"Yes Faith, she is with Willow and they are both worried about you, as am I. If possible, I want you to start training with Buffy tomorrow. Alistair has a bit of a temper problem and unfortunately a way with weak minded fools. He will strike again, as soon as possible. He wants to keep you off balance. He's afraid of you Faith."

"That's what Joyce said too. But the only thing I know is he loves diamonds. Do you have any idea what Joyce meant by Ireland 1438?"

"Yes, I have a vague memory of something about the Slayer at that time. I will of course have to do some research..."

"ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ."

Giles looked over at the sleeping Slayer, *She looks so young.*

He started the car and drove to Willow's apartment. When he arrived he opened the door and gently lifted the dark girl up into his arms and walked to Willow's apartment. Using one knuckle, he knocked and was let in by Willow. He went over to the couch and laid the still sleeping Faith down.

"FAITH!" Buffy came running over.

"SHHHHH, Buffy. She's exhausted, let her sleep." Giles admonished the blonde girl.

Buffy got a good look at Faith and cringed. "I knew that was a gunshot I heard. Damn you Faith, why didn't you trust me enough to let me help you fight them?"

Faith rubbed her eyes and sat up. "B, I do trust you. I wanted you to protect Red and Petey. I don't trust anyone else to do that." Faith bit her bottom lip and looked at Buffy out of the corner of her eye.

"You need protection too Faith. Wait a minute...Willow, you said you put the protection spell on Faith...so how come she got hurt?" Buffy's protective streak was out in spades.

Willow looked away. She knew it wasn't her fault that Faith was hurt, but Buffy's words hurt too.

Faith saw the pain in Willow's eyes and didn't like seeing it.

"B, give Red a break. A gun isn't a magical device. You know anything can happen when we are Slaying. This isn't Red's fault...or yours."

"But...but, you got hurt twice tonight and I couldn't do anything about it either time. I'm so sorry Faith." Buffy, through sheer willpower alone, contained the tears threatening to fall.

"The only thing I'm sorry about is that we didn't get to finish our date. In case I forget to tell ya, you looked beautiful tonight B." Faith blushed and looked shy all of a sudden.

Buffy couldn't help herself, she pulled the dark girl into her arms and kissed her. Unknowingly, Buffy had put her hand down on Faith's thigh and the brunette was feeling the heat. She moaned into the kiss and Buffy growled.

Giles swallowed hard and looked at Willow who was smiling. She explained to Giles, "PSH in action."

As Giles was still confused, Willow whispered. "Post Slaying..."

"WILLOW!" Buffy yelled.

"RED!" Faith said loudly.

Both Slayers went beet red.

Giles remembered Faith's second favorite saying and he cleared his throat. "Well...umm, yes. I think everyone should get good nights sleep. Buffy, I will assume you can drive yourself and Faith home? Faith please take care of yourself and I will see you in the morning."

"Of course Giles, I will see that she does take it easy."

"Hey, not made of porcelain, ya know?" Faith got up and swayed a bit. Willow sat her back down. "Buffy, why don't you bring the car around front and I will help Faith."

"Hello? I can walk, it's only a little stiff now." Faith's protests were ignored.

"Wanna live in a pond Faith?" Willow smiled at the brunette to let her know she was joking.

Faith scowled, but decided this was one battle she wasn't going to win. She gave in, somewhat gracefully...muttering under her breath all the while. "I could use a shower, this vamp dust is iching like crazy." Faith scratched her head and dust fell out. She got up slowly this time and leaned on Giles, who picked her up again.

"Hey!" Faith yelped.

"Stop fighting me Faith, let me help you." Giles carried the brunette out to Buffy's car. "Make sure you clean that wound, I know it's mostly healed, but still."

Willow rushed out and handed Faith a tube of burn ointment for her hand.

"Thanks Red, G-Man." Looking over at Buffy, Faith smirked and said; "Home James and don't spare the horses."

"What am I gonna do with you?" Buffy laughed and started the car. She didn't hear the whispered reply of her fellow Slayer.

"Love me." Faith leaned her head against the window and promptly fell asleep. The next she knew Buffy was shaking her gently.

"We're home." Buffy's adrenalin rush was wearing off and she was almost as exhausted as Faith.

Both girls walked into the house and upstairs to their rooms. Just outside Faith's room, Buffy kissed Faith softly at first. Then harder as she plundered the dark girls mouth. Faith pulled back. "B, not like this."

"Wha...Don't you want to be with me?" Buffy said in a hurt voice.

"Oh god yes, but I want our first time to be special. I want us to make love because that's what we want to do...not just satisfying horny Slayer needs. Please B, let me for once in my life do something right...for you." Faith's shy look was back.

Buffy cupped Faiths face and she smiled. "For us...Faith. You're right, not like this...at least not for our first time." Buffy winked.

Both girls turned and walked into their separate rooms.

(Faith's body) We need to get off and she was sooo willing. Are you outta your mind walking away from a sure thing?

(Faith's mind) Leave me outta this.

*Both of you just shut the fuck up.* Faith knew a cold shower wouldn't be enough...not tonight. She took her clothes off and went into the shower. As soon as she got in, her hand wandered down. "Beeeeeeeeeeeee...."

Buffy had never been so sexually frustrated before and she didn't like it. *Faith is right, but she is just so damn hot, I need...something.* Buffy stripped and turned the shower on. Her fingers were inside before she was even aware of it. "MMMMM Faithhhhhhh..."

Slayer hearing could be a boon or a pain. Right now Faith wasn't sure which. Hearing Buffy scream out her name as she came sent Faith careening over the edge screaming out B's name. As if her orgasm wasn't powerful enough, she had felt B cum as well.

Buffy slid down the wall panting. Feeling Faith's orgasm through their Slayer bond had increased her own. *God when we do finally make love, we better not have any plans for the next several days 'cause I don't think I'll let her out of my bed.*

Faith got up and shook her head. *WOW B, when you cum...you really cum. I swear that when we do finally get together, I won't be letting you outta my arms ever.*

Both girls changed quickly and hopped into bed. They both fell asleep within minutes with huge smiles on their faces.

"I love you Faith. ZZZZZZZ."

"I love you B. ZZZZZ"

WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 22 6:15am

Faith knew she was dreaming but couldn't do anything about it. Buffy came up to her in the dreamscape. "Faith, what's going on? Is this a Slayer Dream?"

"Since you're here, it must be."

Joyce appeared and was looking very angry and worried.

"Joyce, what's wrong? Is B okay?" Faith's blood pressure shot through the roof.

GRRRROWWWWWWWWWLLLLLLLLLL!!!!! Faith was incensed. "Petey!"

Joyce took Faith's arm gently, <Faith, listen to me.>

"Gotta find Petey...this is my fault. I should know better than to let people in...this always happens...I'm such a shit." Faith stomped around. "I wanna wake up now!"

Buffy spun the brunette around, "You are not a shit, this is not your fault Faith. We will get Peter back." Faith melted in the young blonde's arms.

"What she said." Buffy pushed some hair behind Faith's ear and smiled at her.

<Faith, you and Willow with have to accompany Angel to Ireland tonight to retrieve the 'Demon Diamond'.>

"With all due respect Joyce...you're nuts if you think I'm gonna leave B all alone. I have walked away too many damn times and I'm not gonna do it again." Faith's stubborn streak was out in full force.

"Yeah...so? Vamps aren't out during the daytime, so what good does that do?" Faith didn't like speaking to Joyce that way, but she wanted to start looking for Peter.

"That can wait, where the hell is he keeping Petey?"

"Sounds to me like you're setting Faith up as bait." Buffy was definitely not liking what her mother was saying or where the conversation was headed.

Ignoring her daughter's outburst, Joyce continued on.

"News flash for ya Joyce. Other than B not hating me still, nothing ever goes well for me." Faith looked away, she didn't want Joyce to see her pain...again.

<Faith, you have turned your life around. Buffy loves you, you are back to being a good Slayer, and you have friends and family that love you.>

"For now." Faith mumbled under her breath.

<Take my hand Faith.> Joyce held out her hand and Faith moved slowly, uncertain of what Joyce was offering her.

When Faith took the older woman's hand she felt a rush of love, trust, understanding and strength pour into her. She had never felt anything like it. Seeing her future with Buffy and their children running around, she started to cry.

Faith sat up in bed. She was sweating bullets.

Buffy sat up in bed. The early morning sun showed the light sheen of sweat on her body.

Both girls met in the hall.

"B, we gotta..."

"Faith, we have to..."

"I'll call Angel, you call Red." Faith looked at them both still covered in sweat. "I think maybe we should shower and get dressed first." Faith headed back to her room and took the quickest shower on record. She pulled on a pair of black jeans and a plain red hooded sweatshirt.

Buffy took a quick shower and dressed in blue jeans and a dark blue turtleneck sweater. When she got downstairs she saw that Faith was talking to Angel. She picked up her cell and was about to call Willow when it rang.

"Hello?"

"Oh Buffy, it's awful. Faith is gonna freak and...and people are maybe gonna get hurt."

"Slow down Will. Take a deep breathe. Now without babbling...what happened?"

"Peter was kidnapped this morning and the kids all say it was a monster that did it. A note was left for Faith, so the cops are looking for her. Can I speak to her please?"

"She is talking to Angel right now Will, and we know what happened to Peter."

"How?"

"Slayer Dream Will. And my mom gave us more information. Be at Giles' house in thirty minutes, she will tell us the rest of what we need to know. You should pack an over night bag, since you will be going to Ireland with Faith and Angel."

"Ireland? Me? What for?" Willow was understandably concerned.

"I'll explain when I see you. Get packing and met us at Giles'."

"Yes M'am." Willow saluted and then blushed realizing Buffy couldn't see it.

"Sorry Will, I didn't mean it the way it sounded, it's just Faith is really pissed and blaming herself for this. I need you to keep her out of trouble. We both know that a pissed off Faith can be dangerous. If it is vamps or demons, let her go offside on them, but if it's not supernatural then you will need to calm her down. She trusted you to take care of me last night...can I trust you to take care of her?"

"Of course Buffy, I would protect her from anything, including herself, and not just for you. She is becoming my friend too and I kind of like it."

"Thanks Will, I appreciate it. See you soon. Bye."

Buffy quietly slipped up on the brunette who was lost in thought. Wrapping her arms around her from behind, Buffy whispered in Faith's ear; "I love you and we will find Petey, get rid of the bad guy, and then we will finish our date."

"That's everything I want B. Faith placed her hands on Buffy's and leaned back into the blonde Slayer for a few minutes, just enjoying being in Buffy's arms.

"Okay, grab a couple of travel mugs, fill em with coffee. and let's get going." Buffy pointed to the cupboard and Faith handed her the cups. Faith looked at the beautiful blonde Slayer and knew that for the first time in her life, she was loved... for herself. The brunette kissed the blonde softly on the lips.

"Faith?"

"Yeah?"

"Ummm...there was a note..."

"Huh? What note? Where? What did it say?" Faith's fears were coming out to the forefront.

"The vamp that took Peter left a note for you. Will told me that the cops wanna talk to you. So they will probably be at the Orphanage when you get there. Do you want me and Giles to come with you?"

"I didn't do anything wrong B, they shouldn't give me a hard time." Faith hated cops in general, but when they wanted to talk to her, she knew she was basically screwed. And she didn't want B involved.

"I know you didn't do anything, I just want to be there to make sure they don't...."

"You gonna protect me B?" *She really means it, this being in love thing really is great.*

"Damn right I am." Buffy scrunched up her face and Faith laughed.

"God, B...you're really cute when you're not absolutely fucking gorgeous."

"We should leave now," Faith said grabbing Buffy's car keys and heading for the door.

AT GILES' HOUSE

Faith almost put her fist through the door when she knocked. The wood cracked and Willow yanked it open quickly. When the Slayers walked into the living room they saw Angel standing there waiting for them.

"Angel...how did you get her so fast?" Buffy knew Faith was just talking to him about thirty minutes ago.

"Wolfram and Hart have a couple of private jets. I borrowed the fastest. Besides I was in the air when I spoke to Faith. Cordy had a vision and the 'Powers That Be' granted me the ability to walk in the sun for the next twenty-four hours. I'm still having a hard time wrapping myself around the fact that the diamond, my family has held for generations, is what you need to destroy the Mayor's buddy."

Everyone turned when they heard Joyce Summers voice.

"Yes, I do. I stole it from my father the night before I was turned. I hid it and then afterwards I forgot about it...till now."

"What if it's not there...like someone found it a long time ago or something?" Willow hated to put a damper on the mood, but knew finding it was still a long shot.

"Unlikely Willow, I would have heard about it. The diamond...it has special properties. Other than my family the only person capable of touching it is the 'Handler'."

"Who or what is the Handler?" Giles asked earnestly.

"The person who is able to use it to trap immortal demons." Angel shook his head, he remembered scoffing at the stories about what the gem had been used for.

"You still haven't told me why me or more importantly...where Petey is being held? Galway is a pretty big city. You have to give me more Joyce." Faith begged the older woman.

Faith was pacing and not paying much attention to what was being said. She had tuned out when Joyce said she didn't know exactly where Petey was.

Buffy got up and went over to Faith, she knew all this talk and no action was getting to her soon to be girlfriend.

"This isn't getting us anywhere. Willow can't you do a locator spell on Petey? Ghosty over there said he will be in Galway tonight, maybe he is still here now."

"Faith, we have bigger problems than the whereabouts of one child," Giles gently chided.

"Everyone here seems more concerned about a damn diamond and an asshole. Petey's

disappearance seems to have slipped everyone's mind. Finding him is my priority and fuck you all if you can't understand that. I'll find him on my own." Faith grabbed her coat and started to leave when Joyce raised her voice.

Faith felt a force sit her down against her will. She then scowled at the ghostly Joyce.

"What the fuck was that?"

"Mom?" Buffy looked as spooked as Faith.

"Billions?" Faith mouthed.

"Billions?" Buffy croaked.

<Yes...billions. This Alistair will recreate Hell on Earth, literally. He would start by sending the Four Horseman of the Apocalypse. The survivors would face demonic creatures that haven't been seen in over a deca-millennium.>

"Umm Mrs. Summers?" Willow asked softly.

"What is the rest of this prophecy?"

"Is it dangerous to Faith Mom?"

Joyce was unable to look either girl in the eye.

*How bad can it be?* Faith stared out of hooded eyes.

Joyce could tell by the look on the young brunette's face that the enormity of situation was finally starting to sink in.

Joyce hated playing that card, but she knew it was the only thing she could do to get Faith to go to Ireland before knowing Peter was safe.

"Buffy." Faith said softly as she looked at the young blonde woman with tears in her eyes. *I can't let anything happen to her. I won't lose her...not now...not when I am so close to getting what I always wanted.*

"Below the belt mom!" Buffy fumed as she watched her mother fade away.

"Faith, I did try a locator spell...Peter is not registering anywhere in Sunnydale. They must be on their way to the Emerald Isle."

"Airport now!" Faith said as she quickly kissed Buffy goodbye, grabbed the redhead, who managed to snag her laptop, and pushed Angel out the door. Once in the car, Faith asked Willow to hack into the Police Database. "Show me the letter that was left for me Red."

"Working on it Faith. Here it is. Oh shit!" Willow frowned.

Both Faith and Angel turned around; they knew the redhead didn't swear often.

"What is it Red?"

Willow turned the laptop around so Faith and Angel could see what was on it.

"FAITH...by the time you see this...the brat will be mine. You had your chance to join me. This is just the start of what I'm gonna do to you and everyone you care about. The witch is on borrowed time now. Hell on Earth is coming and there is not a damn thing you can do about it."

"Red, do a healing spell on yourself right fucking now." Faith was more worried about her new friend than losing the witch.

"Done. How did he...?"

"What, are you okay Willow?" Angel said in a concerned voice.

"I am now Angel. Somehow a poison was introduced into me. I changed the properties so it won't kill me now. I need to sleep, wake me when we get to the airport k?"

"Are you sure you're alright Red?" Faith was worried and didn't care who knew.

"Yes Faith, I'm fine...just tired." Willow closed her eyes and Faith took off her coat, balled it up and placed it under Willow's head.

"You really care about her don't you Faith?" Angel saw the tenderness the dark girl was using with the witch.

"Yeah Angel, I do. She is my first real friend, other than you."

"Tell me about this kid you're so fond of."

Faith smiled and told Angel all about Petey.

"We will save him Faith. Look around, we have a witch, a day walking vampire and a Slayer. Sounds like a pretty good triad of trouble to me."

"Thanks for coming and helping us Angel. I hope you get the chance to just enjoy the sunshine. I make sure Red takes a few pictures of you so you will always remember it."

"I forgot how good the sun felt on my face. It's almost like being reborn. I know it's only for a day, but..." Angel turned towards the sun, soaking it up while he could.

"Enjoy it deadboy."

AT GILES' HOUSE

Buffy sighed heavily. "Giles, am I the only one worried about Faith?"

"No, Buffy you're not. But you must admit that the two of you do have quite a success rate when it comes to making or breaking prophecies."

"You mean we have the best survival rate," Buffy said bitchily. "So what is going to happen tonight?"

"I am waiting on a call from a friend who does translations. The last paragraph of ritual is very detailed. I believe is requires a sacrifice to complete. That could be where Peter comes in. Also the Handler, Faith, her blood will seal the prison."

"Her blood? FAITH!" Buffy ran to the door and saw the car drive down the street.

Giles caught Buffy's arm and he pulled her back into the living room. "Knowing that won't help them in any way, and it could hinder them."

"You want Faith to die..don't you? You think she is a bad influence on me. Together we are a real pain to the Council. You son of a bitch." Buffy started towards him with a dangerous look in her eyes.

"Buffy Anne Summers! I most certainly do not want Faith to die." Giles was having a hard time avoiding the pissed off blonde Slayer. Giles found himself backup against a wall. Feeling somewhat unneverved, he watched as Buffy stared him down.

Her eyes went ice cold and her voice sent shivers up and down the Watcher's back.

"If Faith doesn't come back...I will make you wish you had never been born."

Giles knew it wasn't an empty threat. *Bloody hell, she really means it.* Giles had never seen, heard or felt so much anger from Faith, let alone Buffy. *Let them all come back safe and sound Lord.*

Chapter Seven

AT THE AIRPORT

Faith gently tapped Willow on the shoulder to wake her up.

"How are you feeling Red?"

Willow blinked a few times, getting her bearings. "Car...airport...Ireland?"

"Yup, that's where we are headed Red. You didn't answer me, how do you feel?"

"Tired." Willow yawned.

"You can sleep on the plane, come on let's go. Angel?"

"This way ladies, your winged chariot awaits." Angel made a dramatic bow and smiled at the women.

"Ummm, Deadboy?"

Angel looked at the dark Slayer as if to say, 'don't call me that and what do you want?'

"I don't have a passport. Willow did you bring yours?"

"Yeah Faith, it's in my back pocket."

Angel handed Faith a passport. When she checked the name, she saw Faith Liam. "Angel?"

"You are my sister, go with it. We are distant cousins of the present landowners. Actually they are descendants of my older sister. She was the only family member I didn't kill when I was first turned. She was in England at the time. It was assumed that I was dead too. So she inherited everything." Angel knew revisiting memories and the places would be hard.

"You killed your family?" Faith knew she had the missing piece to the puzzle that was her friend Angel.

"Yes." Angel looked away, his shame written all over his face.

"It's in the past Deadboy. We all have skeletons in our closet. Besides it was Angelus who did all of that. You're Angel, a different person. I know Angelus is still a part of you, but you control him. It's like am I pyscho now? NO, but that part of me will always be deep down inside of me. Just like Willow's greatest fear is losing control and turning to Black Magic again. We control our own actions and all of us chose to be better people than what we once were." Faith was twisting her ring around her pinkie as she spoke.*Reign it in there Faith, they don't need 'Shrinkology 101 from you.*

"Okay, who are you and where is Faith?" Angel was happy about the growth and change in Faith.

Faith swatted him on the arm, looked at the redhead witch, pointed to Angel and said, "Ribbit ribbit." Faith put her hands together in the universal prayer position. Willow giggled and shook her head.

Angel let out the breath he didn't know he was holding. He looked from one woman to the other, "Damn. The plane is over here."

Willow and Faith both laughed so hard they had to hold each other up for a moment. "Oh oh Faith, I bet he turns into Broody Boy again."

"I don't suppose you could put a happy spell on him?"

"Faith! You are so bad." Willow giggled.

Faith's grin reached from ear to ear. She nodded vigorously knowing that Willow knew she was only joking.

When they turned the corner they saw a Lear Jet. Angel's head was sticking out of the doorway. "Come on, time's a wasting."

AT GILES HOUSE

Buffy had been pacing for over an hour. "Why hasn't your friend called back?"

"He will when he has the complete translation. Sit down Buffy, before you wear a hole in my rug." Giles was rather testy considering he was still reeling from Buffy's earlier threat. He knew with absolute certainty that if something were to happen to Faith, he would pay the price. He also knew that even without the full translation that the Handler could die. *May her love for Buffy be real, it's all the protection she will have.*

RING RING

Giles grabbed the phone before Buffy could. "Hello?" Giles went into full Watcher mode as he listened to what his friend had to say about the prophecy. "Is there any chance that you misread it?" He could feel Buffy's eyes on him and his heart began to do the Mamba. "Thank you Charles. Goodbye."

"WELL! It's not good I know it. Faith is in more danger than she knows...isn't she?" Buffy lifted Giles up by the front of his shirt.

"Put me down Buffy and I will tell you everything." Giles felt a single drop of sweat fall between his shoulder blades.

"Start talking." Buffy lowered Giles back to the ground. "Tell me what Faith's blood is for? Is she gonna die?"

The pleading in Buffy's voice sent a dagger through the Watcher's heart. *I may not understand Buffy being in love with Faith, but I can certainly see it.* Giles took a deep breathe before speaking. "The Handler's blood will seal and destroy the diamond. The gem will heal her. The final bit of magic in it will be transferred to Faith. She will be fine Buffy. Trust her.

"This has nothing to do with trust Giles. I just have a bad feeling about all of this. It's like I'm missing something important."

"The rest of the prophecy says that if the Handler has one pure emotion, that will protect her. The one untainted emotion she has is her love for you and that will protect her."

"It better." Buffy couldn't help the smile that crossed her face when Giles said that Faith loved her.

"I believe Xander would say; 'Use the force Slayer', or some such nonsense.

Buffy concentrated, her brows pinched and eyes closed tightly. Buffy tried using the bond between herself and Faith. She felt something and tried to grab onto it. She saw Willow buying Girl Scout cookies and eating several. There was a shadow hanging over everything. Buffy snapped out of it.

"WILLOW! Giles, she had been poisoned." Buffy pulled out her cell phone and called Faith...no answer. "Damn she has it turned off." Buffy called Wolfram and Hart and after several threats was given Angel's cell phone number. She dialed it quickly and prayed Angel had his turned on.

Giles told Buffy that he would be back shortly. Seeing that he was being ignored, he wrote a quick note and left.

RING RING

"Hello?"

"Angel? Thank god. You need to get Willow to a hospital as soon as possible. I think she ate poison cookies."

"Cookies, so that's what it was. Relax Buffy, after Faith saw the note left for her, she ordered Willow to do a healing spell on herself. It worked and she is sleeping now, watched over by a very protective Faith."

"Can I speak to Faith, please."

"Sure, hang on." Angel waved the phone at Faith and tossed it to her.

"Hi B, I miss you and I love you." Faith blushed, she still wasn't used to admitting her feelings in front of anyone. But she knew Red and Angel had no problems with her and Buffy as a couple.

"I miss you like crazy too, and I love you. Is Willow really okay Faith? She is just as stubborn as us when we are hurt."

"Yes B, Red is okay. I promised you I would take care of her and I am. Now tell me...what else is wrong and don't say nothing." Faith walked away from the sleeping redhead.

"UHHH..."

"Just fucking tell me B!"

"Your blood will be needed to close the prison/prism whatever. It will destroy the gem, but you will be hurt. Giles' friend said that only a true emotion would protect the Handler.

"I love you B and that is the purest thing I have ever experienced."

"Giles said your love for me will protect you. He better be right. I want my girlfriend back safe and sound."

Faith smiled, "Your girlfriend huh? I love the sound of that B."

"Are you on the plane now?" Buffy licked her suddenly dry lips.

"Yeah, why?" Faith shivered when she felt a phantom touch on her lips.

"Go into the bathroom." Buffy's heart rate increased.

Faith's eyes flew open, "Uhhh...okay B." Confused, but trusting, she walked down the aisle to bathroom.

Faith locked the door behind her. "Okay B, I'm in the bathroom...now what?" Faith was beginning to get an idea about what was about to happen when she heard Buffy whisper; "Close your eyes."

"K." Faith was all for relieving the tension building by listening to her sexy girlfriend's voice. *God B, I'm wound so tight, this won't take long.*

"I'm standing in front of you now, looking into love filled eyes and tasting your breath. MMMM, god you taste so good Faith. Open up, let me in."

Faith's breathing sped up. She could feel Buffy's lips on hers and she was getting very hot and wet. The Slayer bond sent Buffy's feelings straight to Faith. Faith moaned and squirmed.

"Okay baby, I'm taking off your top...cool no bra. Yum, Faithy's nipples...slurp...so good."

"Oh fuck B. You're making me so wet. I don't think the Council would approve of this use of our bond.

"Fuck em." Buffy was panting.

"EWWWWWWWWW, not in my lifetime." Faith shuddered. *Mood broken.*

"Better not, I'm the jealous type. You're mine." Buffy said in the most seductive voice that Faith had ever heard.

*Mood repaired.* "Yours B, always have been and always will be."

"Good, now I'm unzipping your pants...slowly, breathing on your soft skin. OOOO looky...goose bumps." Buffy giggled. Faith smirked, she loved the sound of Buffy giggling.

A jolt of pure pleasure rushed through the turned on young woman. Faith unzipped herself quickly as Buffy kept talking. Her hand went between her legs and she wasn't surprised at the wetness.

"One hand is going inside and the other is twisting your left nipple, then your right. OOOO baby, you are so wet...I wanna touch, I wanna taste."

"BEEEEEE, oh fuck me." Faith could feel herself getting closer as her girlfriend kept talking.

"I will baby, right now. I'm slipping two fingers inside you, oh god you are so wet, soft and we fit just right."

Faith shoved her fingers inside and matched Buffy's words.

"B, I wanna do you too. Your ass looks so good in leather, and even better out of it. I'm squeezing it as I run one hand down between your legs. MMMM, I'm not the only wet one."

"Oh god Faith, I love your long slim fingers. IN...NOW!" Buffy was so caught up in her desires that she could almost feel Faith's fingers rubbing her. She increased the speed of her own fingers.

"Yeah baby, I better get them inside you. I can barely think straight as it is." Faith wanted to make her girlfriend feel as good as she herself did.

"There it is, your happy spot. I am rubbing it baby, can you feel it?" Buffy was panting along with Faith.

Faith's answer was a moan. "I'm moving in and out of you as fast as you can take it. Tell me B...how does it feel?"

"F...F...Faithhhhhhh, soooo good." Buffy's fingers were a blur, Faith's voice was egging her on.

Both girls were moaning and getting closer to the edge and they knew it.

"Oh fuck B...I'm gonna...BEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!"

"Faithhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!!!"

Both girls dropped their phones as they screamed out their release.

Willow sat up quickly, "Buffy?"

Angel came over to her, "Faith is...talking to her."

As Willow's sleep clogged brain began to clear, she realized exactly what she had just heard...her face went redder than her hair.

AT GILES' HOUSE

When Buffy came back to her senses, she saw a note on the table.

Gone to look for a book at the library. Be back soon.

Giles

Buffy blushed wondering just when her Watcher had left.*Oh shit, Faith!* Buffy saw the phone and picked it up. "Faith?"

ON THE PLANE

"The number you have dialed has just been serviced." Faith laughed.

"Fuck B, that was intense. I'm still shaking. Baby when I finally get you in my arms, I'm never gonna let you go. Shit the battery is dying...B, I love you."

The battery gave out just as Faith heard Buffy say, "I love you too."

Faith sat still for a few more minutes, gathering herself and then pulled her pants up. She checked herself in the mirror. The grin she saw would make it obvious to anyone who saw her, to know just what had happened.

She walked out of the bathroom and tossed the phone to Angel. "Battery is dead...Deadboy."

Angel caught the phone and gave Faith his best death stare. But the happiness radiating off of the young brunette stalled the souled Vampire.

Willow was still blushing, but decided to have a little fun with Faith. "Man when you two finally get together, we won't see you for a month." Willow clapped both hands over her mouth in surprise. *I actually said that...oh goddess.*

Faith's mouth dropped open and she looked at the redhead. She smirked and said, "More like a year Red."

"Only one?" Angel added his two cents.

"Okay, now that everyone has had their fun at my expense, shouldn't we be making some kind of game plan?" Faith grumbled.

"Willow will check out the glen and we will talk to the present owners. Faith, you have gotten close to the kid, maybe you will be able to sense him." Angel knew that Faith would put finding the little boy ahead of destroying the bastard who kidnapped him.

"I just want him to be okay. He's just a little kid and he is probably scared shitless right now." Faith growled and started pacing again.

<Faith, relax. Peter is alright for the moment.>

"Joyce! Where the hell is he?" Faith shouted.

"Improve...how?"

"Yes Mrs. Summers, I know exactly where I left it. As soon as we land, I will go get it and give it to Faith."

<Willow, have you regained your strength?>

"Yes, I have. It was just...I did a lot of magic in a short period of time. Four heavy-duty protection spells, a locator spell that was useless and then a healing spell for myself. Thanks to Faith, I'm fine."

"Me? You healed yourself Red. I didn't do anything, other than get you involved in this mess."

Faith's guilt was visible to all.

"Actually Faith, I introduced you to Peter and then..." Willow looked away.

"Yeah, you did. You gave me a chance to do some good in this world other than killing things and I never thanked you did I?"

"Okay, this meeting of the mutual admiration society is called to order. We all are here to rescue the kid, take out the bad and maybe learn a few things about each other." Angel used his stern voice.

Faith followed Joyce to the back of the plane. "Is B okay?"

<She's fine Faith. I wanted to tell you something not connected to this adventure.>

"Okay, shoot."

"Yeah, I changed a flat for the salesman. Soooo?"

"Your Slayer strength is a good trade off for when you want something. Keep that in mind.>

"You been hanging out with Confucius and Yoda up there huh?" Faith pointed upwards.

A very stunned Faith whipped at the tears that began to fall. Joyce pulled her in for a hug that was returned.

<Don't you think it's about time you started believing in yourself Faith?>

"Not a good idea Joyce, whenever I do...the shit hits the fan. I thought I could help Peter and what happens? He gets kidnapped just because he is someone I care about. Red got poisoned for the same reason. I guess it's a good thing you are already dead, or..."

Faith whispered, "Yes."

"What's that mean?" An anxious Faith demanded.

Joyce smiled mysteriously and vanished.

"Faith come put your seatbelt on, we will be landing in a few minutes at Galway Airport." Angel pointed out the window.

"About freaking time Deadboy. How long will it take you to get the diamond? And where exactly is Willow going?"

"A half hour, take a cab and ask to be dropped off at the Liam estate. And stop calling me Deadboy." Angel actually pouted and both girls wore an identical sillyassed grins.

Walking through the airport, Faith shivered. Willow caught her as she stumbled. "Faith?"

"It's Petey, he's terrified. I'm gonna kill that bastard, I swear it." Faith steadied herself, sucked in a huge breath and began walking alongside the worried redhead.

"Can you see anything where he is? A landmark, trees, rocks...anything Faith?" Willow started to look through her knapsack for the ingredients for a locator spell.

"I saw...a big wooden wheel. Like on the back of those casino boats on the Mississippi."

"Faith, was the wheel up against a stone building?" Angel asked.

"I...I don't know." Faith was getting frantic again. Red can't you get into my head?"

"No Faith, and I wouldn't. But I can increase your sensitivity to Peter, maybe you will be able to see more. Are you willing? I won't do it without your permission."

"Why would a wheel be against an old building Dead...uhh Angel?"

"It sounds like it could be an old mill. There are several mill ruins around the edge of the Liam estate. I used to hide whiskey in a few of them. They were all linked to an underground tunnel system, most of which have probably collapsed by now." Angel looked thoughtful for a moment.

It was three very worried people who exited the airport and hailed a cab. "Hey come on everyone, like Angel said, a very powerful witch, a day walking vampire and a pissed off Slayer...we are a triad of trouble. WE WILL SUCCEED." Faith said with more determination in her voice than either of her friends had ever heard before.

"Of course we will Faith." Angel agreed with the brunette.

"Absolutely, we will cause we are...well, I mean we will...I know babbling again. Shut up Willow." The redhead smiled shyly at her friends who where trying hard to keep from laughing out loud.

"S'okay Red, it's kind of cute and what we expect from you. Hey, I could start calling you 'Brook'." Angel grinned and looked away.

"And I can call you late for dinner." Willow stuck her tongue out at the surprised Slayer.

Faith went down on bended knees, "Forgive me oh provider of sustenance."

"Ladies, let's go." Angel held open the door to a beat up old cab.

"And where would you be going on this fine day?" The driver's breath was enough to give Faith a buzz as she answered, "To the Liam estate."

Faith gave Angel a look that said, 'This was the best you could do?'

Angel just shrugged his shoulders and turned his face towards the sun. The trip didn't take long. As they were getting out of the cab, the driver came around beside Willow and tried to take her bag.

"I'll be taking that little lady." He reached for the bag.

Faith spun around quickly and growled at the stupid man.

"You think so, do ya?" Faith squared off into a fighting stance.

"You really don't want to piss Faith off Sir. You don't want to know what she did to the last idiot that tried to rip us off. I think they are still pulling pieces of him out of the radiator. Faith me darling," Willow said in an exaggerated Irish accent, "Why don't you show him just how strong you are. I believe he could use a bit of sobering up, don't you." Willow's eyes traveled from the man to the small duck pond about twenty feet away.

"Wicked cool idea Red." The brunette Slayer grinned evilly at the idiot. She grabbed the man around the back of the neck and by balls, which she squeezed for good measure, and tossed him towards the pond.

SPLASH

Creative cursing was heard for several minutes as they walked away and up to the main house. Faith used the knocker and waited. A woman older than dirt answered.

"Yes, can I help you? She saw Angel and shrieked. "Liam, you've come back." She grabbed the surprised vampire and hugged him hard enough to make him wince.

Faith and Willow both shifted their weight from foot to foot, not knowing what to say or do.

"I wondered if I would live to see the prophecy come true." She pointed to Faith, "the witch," she pointed to Willow, "the killer of beasts, and the day walking vampire. A young boy's life hangs in the balance."

"Actually M'am, I'm the Slayer and Willow is the witch." Faith smiled at the old woman. "Do you know where Petey is?" Faith asked anxiously.

The old woman stared at Faith for several long moments, long enough for Faith to begin to feel uncomfortable.

"Come in, all of you. We have much to discuss and I'm not getting any younger."

They followed her into the library. The first thing Faith saw was a portrait of Angel...as he was when he was mortal. *Damn, the artist really caught the 'so what' attitude in his eyes. This is what Joyce meant. I have to talk to the old lady and see if I can do some work around here in trade for that painting.*

Angel was drawn to the painting as well. The signature had almost faded, but with Vampiric and Slayer eyesight it could be read.

"What the hell?" Faith said surprised to see her name in the corner of the painting.

"His sister was the artist. Her name was Faith."

Faith looked at Angel, she could feel his pain. "Why didn't you tell me?"

Angel knew what she was asking and for a moment considered ignoring her question. "I tried to forget everything and everyone. She tried to change me from a drunken sot to a gentleman...didn't work. When she got married, she went to live in London. I never saw again. She was a local celebrity as an artist. She did portraits and landscapes.

Willow was busy looking at the enormous amount of books on Wicca's.

"I do beg your apologies for my rudeness. My name is Breanna Faith Liam. I was told that my middle name came from an ancestor that was a great artist. Too bad I didn't inherit the talent to draw as well."

"Well you know who I was Breanna, I am now called Angel."

"The redhead with her head in a book is Willow...and my name is Faith."

"I see I'm not the only member of this family named Faith. Can you draw young lady?"

"Angel, I can't do this. M'am, I'm not part of this family...wish I were, but I'm not. It's just a name on a passport. We thought that if you believed Angel and I were distant relatives, you might be more willing to help us. I'm sorry for deceiving you."

"She draws very well," Willow informed their host as Faith scowled at the redhead.

"Maybe you can show me later. Is your name really Faith?"

"Yes, Faith Winters." Faith felt bad about lying to the woman.

Both Angel and Willow's heads shot up at that admission from the dark Slayer.

"Your friends look surprised, why is that?"

"Probably because they didn't know my last name. I haven't used it years. But, I couldn't lie to you any longer. I hope you will forgive me and still help us."

"Of course I will child. Now tell me what I can do to help."

"I need to go get something, I will be back in a hour. Willow, I think you should check out the glen while it's still light out." Angel suggested as he walked out of the den.

"I'll go with Red." Faith came over to the witch smiling. "Good book ya got there?"

"I will be fine Faith, don't be such a worry wort. The book is old, real old and has ancient Wicca spells in it. I think I can read some of it."

"Uh uh Red. I promised B that I would take care of you and I will. So deal with it. Where are we going?" Faith leaned lazily back against the large desk and waited. She knew Willow would let her accompany her, but only because of the promise made to Buffy.

Breanna handed Willow a talisman on a silver chain. This will detect black magic and you will be forewarned. Be back here for dinner at seven o'clock...all of you. You will need a good meal under your belts before dealing with the forces of evil."

"I do like the way you think M'am. What's for dinner?" Faith's stomach chose this minute to make itself known. Faith looked embarrassed and Willow laughed.

"You might want to tell the cook, that Faith can eat as much as the rest of us combined...well not Angel of course."

"RED!!!" Faith blushed deeply.

"Don't pay any attention to her M'am." Faith realized that the woman had disappeared. "Huh? Where'd she go?"

The woman came back in and handed Faith a large drumstick, and a small Tupper wear dish containing a hunk of cheese, several slices of homemade bread and a can of ginger ale. "Gnaw on this while the witch checks out the lay of the land."

"May whatever God you believe in, bless your entire bloodline M'am," Faith said around the mouthful of turkey.

"As for dinner, it will include roast pork, mashed potatoes, corn on the cob, and homemade chocolate cake or blueberry pie with ice cream for dessert. Does that meet with your approval Faith?"

Faith licked her lips in anticipation of the dinner to come. "Oh yes M'am. Wanna adopt me?" Faith's eyes were a big as dinner plates and the grin was ear to ear.

"How are you with heavy lifting?"

"You'd be surprised. After we come back, I would be happy to move or lift anything you want. I kinda want to talk to you too."

"I will take it under immediate advisement then, dear." Breanna laughed. "Oh my son, the Doctor will be joining us tonight."

Willow laughed and shook her head. "Come on Faith, we should go."

"Coming mother." Faith was too busy feeding her face to notice the look on the redhead's face.

Willow chanted for a second and Faith's drumstick disappeared.

"HEY!!! Give that back Red." Faith whined. The drumstick reappeared two minutes later. They heard a noise coming from the entryway.

Faith handed Willow her food, "Don't make it disappear, please Red."

She ran out to the front door in time to see their 'cab driver' shake himself off.

"What the fuck are you doing here?" Faith was oh so ready to kick his ass.

"How do you know my grandson Faith?"

"Grandson?" *Oh shit.* "He tried to steal Willow's bag."

Breanna looked at the still dripping man standing there.

"She threw me into the pond Grandma."

"William Andrew Liam the third, you will apologize to Willow right now."

"Yes M'am."

Faith brought Willow out. "Relax Red, the book will be there when we get back."

"I'm sorry I tried to steal your laptop...uh Willow?"

"Why my laptop?" Willow knew it would bring a tidy amount on the black-market.

"I could get drinks for a month at the tavern for that," he said defiantly.

"William!"

"But Gran, she asked."

"Go clean out the barn...move it," the old woman said in a voice that brooked no disobedience.

"Yes M'am," He looked daggers at Willow and saw Faith give him a dirty look.

"Don't go there...barnboy. You even think of bothering Red again and I will hunt you down and beat your ass. Clear?"

"Crystal." William stomped out of the house.

"I know you can pretty much take care of yourself Red, but I don't think it's a good idea for too many people to know what you are capable of. I mean Deadboy and I are kind of obvious, but you are our surprise ace in the hole. You're not mad are ya Red?"

"No Faith I'm not mad. I just think you are being a little over protective...and...that's a good thing...sorta...kind of....I guess."

"Okay Red, let's go check out Magic Central and make sure there is a safe hiding spot for you to do your thing from. Angel and I will confront the son of a bitch while you start chanting or whatever."

"After, would you help me check out some of those mill ruins Angel told us about?" Faith hoped she could find Peter before the battle with Alistair.

"If Peter is to be the sacrifice, then they won't hurt him."

"Red, he's been kidnapped and doesn't know why. I can feel his fear, why can't I see where he is?"

"Concentrate Faith, can you see anything else close to him?"

Faith closed her eyes and steadied her breathing. "Damn, nothing Red."

"Remember Joyce did say we would all be okay. So try not to worry. Here," Willow handed Faith her cell phone. "Call Buffy and let her know we got her safe and sound. And Faith?"

"I know, talk only...no happy scream." Faith blushed and walked a few feet behind Willow.

Chapter Eight

NEAR AN OLD MILL AT THE EAST END OF THE PROPERTY

Angel walked slowly with his head down, he knew exactly where he was going. He found his old hideaway and pulled out the dark blue handkerchief. Opening it, he breathed a sigh of relief. *I hope Faith really is the Handler and that she can use this safely. Buffy will stake me if anything happens to Faith.*

NEAR AN OLD MILL AT THE WEST END OF THE PROPERTY

Willow smiled as she handed Faith her cell phone. She wisely walked a few feet in front of the brunette.

Faith dialed Buffy's number and there was no answer. "Red, what's Giles' phone number?" She dialed in the number Willow supplied.

"Hello?" Giles answered, expecting it to be his friend with more information. He was therefore surprised to hear Faith's voice.

"Hi G-Man, is B still there?"

"Yes Faith, hang on." Giles started to hand the phone to Buffy when she grabbed it like a lifeline.

"Faith? Are you okay?" Buffy needed to hear Faith's voice and didn't mind showing her concerns.

"Yeah B, I just called to let you know we all got here safe and sound. The present owner of the land is a woman older than dirt, but she is wicked cool. She knows about the prophecy and is letting all of us stay with her until we face off with the bastard that grabbed Petey."

"Is Willow okay now?"

"Yep, hang on," Faith handed the phone to the redhead.

"Hi Buffy, I'm fine now. Faith is pretty protective of me." Willow smiled to herself thinking that Faith made a much better friend than an enemy.

"Good, you can watch each other's backs. Where is Angel?"

"He went to get the diamond and will meet us soon. Faith thought I should look over the place where the battle will happen. She wants to make sure there is a safe place for me to do the spell."

Faith started swaying and growling again.

"Buffy hang on," Willow put the phone to her chest to muffle the conversion, "Faith what's wrong? Is it Petey?"

Faith nodded before collapsing to the ground. "If you do a locator spell now, will you have enough magic for tonight?"

"There is too much magic here Faith, I wouldn't be able to find him. I'm sorry." The redhead knew how badly Faith wanted to find the little boy and hated to say no to her.

"FUCK! If I have to tear every mill apart, I will find him." Faith took off running at Slayer speed towards the brick ruins in the distance.

The determination in her voice left Willow almost feeling sorry for the bad guy...almost.

"Uh Buffy, I need to catch up to Faith. I'll have her call you later." Willow didn't want Faith to be alone right now. She knew that if Peter was hurt, Faith would go offside. More demons could be waiting and with Faith so locked into finding the boy, she might not be able to defend herself immediately as needed.

"Okay, Giles wants to talk to you before the battle. Take care of her for me Will...please." Buffy hated being left out of whatever was happening. She knew that Angel and Willow would back up Faith and she hoped it would be enough. Not being able to help the woman she loved was not something she was handling very well.

"You know I will Buffy. We'll talk later. Bye." *She loves Faith so much. Angel and I had better be able to get Faith back to Buffy safely or Buffy will lose it.*

"Bye Will." Buffy didn't want to lose the connection, but she knew she had no choice in the matter.

Willow ran after the dark Slayer. When she caught up with her, Faith was tearing apart a stonewall with her bare hands which were now dripping blood from the cuts and scratches.

"Faith?...FAITH! The door is over here." Willow grabbed the rusted door handle but it wouldn't budge.

Faith ripped the door right off its hinges. "Petey? Are you here little dude?" Faith frantically tossed piles of rags and cinderblocks around.

Silence greeted the women. Willow dragged Faith out and over to one of the streams. She gently washed the blood off of Faith's hands, "Injuring yourself won't help Peter Faith. Please calm down, I know I'm asking a lot."

Faith felt the warmth of a healing spell emanating from Willow. She jerked her hands back. "Don't waste your magic on me Red, save it for Petey and our upcoming battle."

"It's not a waste Faith."

Faith's Slayer sense went off and she quickly turned around, only to see Angel standing there. "I'm gonna put a fucking bell around you Deadboy."

"Stop calling me that Faith!" Angel growled at her.

"Okay, both of you...chill out." Willow didn't realize she would be the referee between her friends. "Angel how many more mills are on this property?"

"Too many to check all of them." Seeing the look on Faith's face, he said..."But we will check as many as we can." Angel leaned down and drew a rough sketch of the property and the placement of the mills. "Faith you and I can move a lot quicker than Willow, so she should check these three that are the closest to here. You go check out these six on the west end of the property and I will check out these five on the east end. We will meet back here in one hour."

"Red, if you see anything suspicious, yell out and we will come running." Faith wanted to protect Willow but knew they would cover more ground this way.

"I may not the your fighting skills Faith, but I can take care of myself, if necessary." Seeing the worried look on the brunette's face, she added..."I promise to yell good and loud if I find anything."

"Thanks Red. Let's go." Faith was torn between staying with Willow to protect her and going to search her assigned area. Finding Petey won out.

Both Faith and Angel ran so fast that they were nothing more than a blur. Willow ran over to the next closed ruin and looked around. The hackles on the back of her neck rose. She found a child size winter coat with blood on one sleeve. *Shit, Faith is gonna freak.*

Willow drew a big breath and yelled, "FAITH! I found something."

Within seconds the dark girl was at her side and Angel came running up too.

"What did you find Red?"

Willow handed Faith the bloodstained coat. I don't know if this belongs to Peter or not."

Faith took the coat from Willow's trembling hands and searched it and found a faded nametag in the collar. She growled loudly and clenched the coat tightly. The tag said Peter Hamilton.

"I guess that answers my question. The blood is still damp, that means he was here not to long ago. They must have moved him when they saw us coming." No sooner were the words out of her mouth when both Faith and Angel went into fighting mode.

Several demons jumped down from the trees and started swinging large bastard swords. One sword had a jewel encrusted hilt and seemed to sing as it moved through the air. Faith pushed Willow to the ground and so doing took a hit across the upper left thigh.

"ARGGGGGHHH," Faith relieved the ugly of its weapon after punching it in the face a few times, just to get its attention, and beheaded it. Meanwhile Angel had taken out two more, leaving just three which Faith dispatched quickly.

Angel leaned down to check on Willow, who had a split lip from hitting the ground when Faith pushed her.

"Uhhh, Angel? I'm as concerned about Red as you, but we are not finished. There is something else here and it's nasty, I can feel it."

"Help her, I'll be fine." Willow knew enough to stay down. "FAITH! behind you."

"HUH, what?" Faith didn't see anything, but she could sense it. She ducked and swung the sword, she felt it bite into something and then she saw the demon materialize, minus one arm. Angel broke its neck and it vanished.

"YEAH! The triad of trouble rules." Faith looked down at her bleeding leg and blanched.

Willow reached out, with glowing hands, for Faith and the brunette swatted her hand away. "Save the magic for tonight Red, this will heal in a few hours. Gotta love Slayer healing."

Angel scooped the injured Slayer up into his arms. "Let's head back to the main house. I think Breanna will have a first aid kit there."

"Angel, I can walk ya know." Faith didn't like showing weakness to anyone.

"Maybe I like having you in my arms Faith," Angel smiled.

"OOOO Angel, I'm gonna tell Buffy you were flirting with her girlfriend." Willow laughed.

Angel looked worried. "I think I prefer 'Ribbit Ribbit'."

All three shared a laugh as they walked back to the house. Once inside, Breanna took charge of Faith. "Put her down gently on the couch Angel. Willow, the first aid kit is in the next room in the top drawer on the right hand side of the desk. Please go get it for me."

Willow went to get it and came back quickly. "Here Breanna, help her please." Willow knew that Faith's wound was causing her a lot more pain than she was willing to admit.

"Guys, chill out please. I will be fine...in a little while." Faith hated to bother anybody, especially with something that would heal soon enough on it's own.

"You know Faith, you could put the sword down now." Angel cracked.

"I'm keeping this, it's wicked cool."

"It belongs to you Faith, it's meant for the Handler. How did you find it? It's been lost for centuries?" Breanna kept the young woman talking as she cleaned and dressed the leg wound.

"It kind of found me Breanna. A demon had it and I took it back and used it on him and on an invisible one too. It just feels right in my hand."

"Only you or Angel can use it. It's a family weapon."

"But I'm not family Bre...not by blood anyway."

"Faith, does the name Jason Winters or Samuel Winters mean anything to you?" Breanna smiled mysteriously at the dark girl.

Angels eyes shot open, he was putting two and two together and getting four. *Now I know why I felt an affinity for her, she is family...real family, by blood not just choice.*

"Jason was a sea captain and Sam was his son. My grandmother used to tell me stories about them. Why? And how did you know their names?"

"Because dearheart, Jason Winters was Faith Liam's husband and Sam was the son that went to the American colonies. You ARE part of this family."

Faith's mouth dropped open in surprise. She looked at Angel and said, "Wicked cool, my gramp's a vamp."

Willow burst out laughing and Angel did a double take.

"I am not your grandfather Faith, I would be your several greats uncle."

"Yeah but that doesn't rhyme." Faith smiled at the vampire.

*Wow, Faith and Angel are related.* Willow's thoughts were transparent.

"Would you consider calling me Gran, Faith?" Breanna's heart swelled with love for this amazing young woman.

Faith nodded, "I would be honored...Gran."

"Angel would you pick her up and follow me please."

"Hey, I can walk ya know." Faith said softly as she stood up.

Breanna swung around and just stared at Faith.

"Wow Gran, that's one hell of an evil eye ya got there."

"And don't you forget young lady. Angel, if you please."

Angel carefully picked up Faith and followed the old woman with Willow trailing behind them all.

Breanna led them into a small artist's studio filled with all kinds of art supplies from paper, canvas, paints, chalks, pens, inks, pencils, a calligraphy set and a host of other things.

"Consider all this yours Faith. You are the artist in this family for this generation."

Faith was staring at the large white sheet of paper and Breanna could see the wheels turning. "Willow dear, would you bring that wheeled chair over here for Faith please?"

"Sure thing Breanna." Willow pushed the chair over in front of the easel and Angel put Faith in it.

"We should leave the artist to her work now. Faith, I will send Willow to come to get you when dinner is ready."

Faith waved her hand absentmindedly. "Okay Gran."

Breanna smiled and led Angel and Willow back to the library. She handed Willow the Wicca book she had been so interested in earlier. Going over to the bookcase, she pulled one back and the bookcase moved forward. Inside were a lot of oil paintings and sketches. "These were done by your sister, Angel. I thought you might like to look through them."

"Thank you." Angel started with a pile of dusty sketches. It was like a time warp had taken possession of him. He recognized several landscapes of the family property.

Willow was lost in the book and when she went to sit down, she missed the couch. "Ow!", she looked chagrined and then sat down on the couch.

Faith got up and grabbed several pencils, the calligraphy nibs and the oil pastels. She quickly sketched an outline, stood back, erased a part of it and redid it. She did this several times until she was satisfied. She was whistling while she worked. By the time she had outlined, shaded and colored the picture, she could hear Willow coming to get her. She quickly covered her masterpiece and sat back down.

"Hi Faith, dinner is almost ready. You look at home in this room, you really do." Willow reached out to look under the tarp that Faith had thrown over what she had done.

"Red, please...don't look." Faith wanted to give it to the redheaded witch as a Christmas present and therefore didn't want Willow to see it just yet.

"Okay. How's your leg now? Can you walk?...cause I can go get Angel to carry you if you want." Willow looked at Faith wondering if the brunette would in fact be able to fight tonight. She knew Faith would fight no matter what condition she was in and the redhead was a little worried.

"Almost good as new Red." Faith jumped to her feet and followed Willow to the dinning room. The scents coming from the dinning room, of all the wonderful things that were on the table, made Faith's mouth water. She licked her lips and smiled. *Fuck me, a real family dinner. If it weren't for B being in Sunnydale, I would never leave here.*

Breanna pointed to the head of the table and insisted that Angel sit there and do the carving of the roast. Willow and Faith sat on his left and Breanna sat on his right. The grandson came in, his hair still dripping from the shower he had taken out of necessity. Cleaning out a barn was dirty work. He didn't even look at the guests as he sat down beside his grandmother. Angel had carved several nice thick slices of roast and put them on plates that were handed to him. He 'himself' was happy with the red wine placed at his elbow.

"Hey Gran, I thought you said your son was gonna join us for dinner." Faith asked as she reached for the potatoes after having helped herself to the corn on the cob.

"He was called to the next county to help deliver triplets. Even though he is an ear specialist, he can still deliver babies."

Faith's head jerked up and the forkful of meat stopped in mid air. "He's an ear specialist? Wait a minute, is his name Dr. Brian Liam?"

"Yes it is, why dear?"

"Petey...he is deaf. I saw an article that mentioned your son. It said something about the most comprehensive tests than can be done costing $2500.00. If anything can be done, your son can do it. Do you have one of his business cards Gran? It will take me a while to come up with that kind of money."

"I'm sure there is one around here somewhere. You care a great deal about this little boy whom you will prevent from becoming the sacrifice. Is he your son?"

Faith's eyes flew open and she shook her head left to right. "No, he is a friend. One who is scared to death right now...all because of me. You can bet your sweet ass I won't let this bastard hurt him...again." Faith remembered the bloody sleeve of the coat.

"Faith, this isn't your fault...you have to believe that." Willow reached out for the dark girl who pulled away.

"I think you'll find that your money is no good here Faith, you're family and this boy is important to you. Enough said," Breanna said in no nonsense voice.

Faith choked up and covered by saying. "I'm gonna go check out those other mills. Angel?" Faith left the obvious request unspoken.

"On it Faith, meet you at the fork in the rivers in a hour." Angel grabbed his coat and headed for the door.

Faith grabbed the sword and headed out.

"I think I found the right containment spell, I'm gonna read it and make sure." Willow headed off to the library.

"I'm going into town Gran," the young man said sourly.

"Of course you are. Be gone with ya." Breanna walked away disgusted, knowing her grandson would be pub crawling and come stumbling home in the wee hours of the morning. *Well at least it will keep him from interfering in what must be done tonight.*

Breanna walked back to the studio thinking about the newest member of the family. *She is so beautiful and talented, but she seems to have a low opinion of herself. Well, we will fix that.*

When she walked into the room she saw the cover over the drawing. *Should I peek? Of course I should, it's one of the advantages of old age. I can do things others can't and get away with it.* Lifting the cover, Breanna drew in a sharp breath. "Saints preserve us, that is amazing. How did she...wow, she may be even more talented than the original Faith. I hope Willow will appreciate this." Breanna recovered the picture and went back to the library.

AT THE EAST END OF THE PROPERTY

Angel had checked all the mills and found noting showing that Peter had been in any of them. *Faith is not gonna be happy, and a not happy Faith is not a good thing.*

AT THE WEST END OF THE PROPERTY

Faith had torn apart more rock walls and pulled rusted doors off their hinges looking for Peter. *Dammit, I have to find him.* Her Slayer sense went off, she turned around expecting to see Angel, but but instead she saw trouble. Barely getting the sword up in time to block the axe headed for her midsection, she stepped back and began taunting the demon.

"Whatza matter ugly, your aim off today? Now I can kill ya quick and painless if you tell me where the boy is OR...I can chop you to pieces slowly. Your choice."

If the demon had a brain, he would have recognized that the smile on Faith's face meant she was at her most dangerous. But since he was a few fries short a happy meal...

The axe whistled past her right ear, "Okay dickwad...let's boogie." Faith grinned and came at the demon. Two slashes later, PLOP...PLOP, "Consider yourself disarmed asshole," Faith laughed as she chopped the demon's arms off. "Last chance ugly...where is the boy?"

The demon smirked and drooled, "Tasted real good he did." The sword sung as his head hit the ground. With the prior knowledge that Petey was to be used as the sacrifice later tonight, she knew the demon had been lying. *Petey is alive and I will find him.* Faith shouted for Angel and he was at her side in minutes.

"Faith! are you alright?" Angel saw the green goo on Faith's pants.

"Yes, he wasn't interested in talking. But since he was here..."

"We should look around carefully, together." Angel stated.

An old druid ruin was in sight and the enormous amount of magic could be felt.

Both Faith and Angel felt the hairs on the back of their necks stand up. Faith raised the sword and Angel motioned he would go around the long way. As soon as Angel got more than one hundred feet away, vampires and demons surrounded Faith.

"Yo, Deadboy...a little help." Faith swung the sword and as it began to sing, dust piles began to grow.

Angel broke several vampires necks trying to get back to Faith. The souled vampire felt the trident enter his shoulder and he screamed.

"Angel! Faith smashed her way through the rest of the vampires and saw a demon ready to snap Angel's neck.

"Angel, DUCK!" The Slayer threw her sword like a javelin and nailed it in the throat, effectively slowing it down. Pulling the sword out, she removed it's head with one stroke. The smell made both vampire and Slayer gag. Angel growled loudly and ran around to one of the larger stones...a sacrificial table so to speak. Angel reached out to touch the cold stone surface. A blue bolt of lightning shot out hitting Angel in the chest. It did however prove useful in cauterizing Angels wound. Faith quickly grabbed the stricken vampire and pulled his hand off of the stone slab. The electricity danced over Faith, but SHE felt no pain. *Something to think about later girl. For now, get Angel back to the house.*

Faith picked up the wobbly vampire and started walking back to the house.

"Hey I can walk ya know!" Angel squirmed and Faith dropped him on his ass.

"Ouch! Hey!" Angel got up and promptly started swaying and would have kissed the ground if Faith hadn't caught him.

"You were saying," Faith laughed as she picked him back up.

"Son of a bitch," Angel said softly.

"Slayer hearing 'gramps', knowing that your friends will help when needed is cool...but needing it isn't, huh?"

"Point taken and not at the end of a stake," Angel grinned.

"Making jokes, hmmmm there is hope for you yet Angel."

BACK AT THE HOUSE IN THE LIBRARY

Willow studied the text and went back and forth between it and her laptop. *Goddess, what does this mean?* Willow read and reread the passage several times: THE SMOOTHNESS OF THE TRANSFORMATION FROM HANDLER TO HEALER WILL DEPEND UPON THE ADVICE GIVEN BY THE WITCH.

Breanna glided back into the room quietly and sat down on the opposite side of the couch to Willow. "Is something wrong Willow?"

"AAAAAAA, I didn't hear you come in Breanna. I'm sorry. What more can you tell me about this prophecy?"

Breanna took the book from Willow and she read what was obviously the troubling passage. She took a deep breath before speaking. "Willow, you will have to tell Faith to stop fighting the change...or it could kill her."

"What change?...kill her? This is not good...this is way not good". *Buffy will kill us if anything happens to Faith.* Willow felt fear for Faith and herself deep down in her gut.

"Now that I know she is a Slayer, the rest of what I know makes sense. The leg injury she took earlier today...it was almost totally healed by dinner time, it has something to do with her being a Slayer doesn't it Willow?"

"Yes Breanna it does, and it comes in real handy for her and Buffy more often than either would like." Willow remembered many patch-up sessions with both Slayers in the past.

"Who is Buffy?"

"She is another Slayer and...Faith's girlfriend." Willow hoped that wouldn't turn Breanna against the brunette.

"But there is only supposed to be one Slayer, I don't understand."

"Well, Buffy died for a minute and Kendra was called. Then Buffy came back. Kendra died in the line of duty and Faith was called. Together they have saved the world a few times...lot's of people owe their lives to one or both of them, including me."

"You know Faith pretty well don't you?"

"No, not really. I'm just learning about the person she is this time around." Willow turned all shades of red. *If all of us had taken the time to get to know her before...*

"Do you have any idea why she has such a low opinion of herself? She is beautiful, smart, funny and does a great service for people who for the most part will never know. It's a thankless job I would imagine."

"I don't know all the details Breanna, but she had abusive parents and her first Watcher died in front of her. Then she came to Sunnydale. She and Buffy clashed at first, then something bad happened...it was an accident, but we all reacted badly. We didn't support or help her. She turned evil for a while, but came back in the end. Buffy had to hurt her...she put Faith in a coma for two years. She just woke up a few days ago and both Buffy and Faith were finally willing to admit their feelings for each other. Then this damn prophecy happened...I'm really getting sick of all the prophecies we have been involved in. Someone always gets hurt...or worse." Against her will, Willow's mind went to Tara's death.

Breanna saw the pain and hugged the redhead tightly to her breast. "What was his or her name sweetie?" Breanna asked softly as she ran her fingers through Willow's hair, trying to comfort the young woman.

"Tara," was the one word answer given by the witch. She hiccupped a few times. She pulled back and looked into very concerned, non-judgmental eyes. "It was Faith who saw what was happening between us, she kind of talked to both of us and gave us a nudge. She was soooo right when she said, if we didn't try, we would have regrets, the 'what if's' later. We only had a short time together, but at least I have good memories and I don't regret anything."

ON THE PATH TO THE HOUSE

"Angel? Are you upset about the fact I am part of your real family?" Faith asked quietly, afraid of the answer. She always expected the worst.

"Put me down Faith, but keep your arm around my waist for a minute please."

Faith did as asked. Angel took her face in his hands and he spoke softly, "You have always been part of my family Faith. Finding out today that you share the same blood..well... It's one of the memories I will cherish and haul out over the coming centuries, if I live that long. Considering what I am, your acceptance of me...all of me, that was and is very important to me. Breanna and you...are the only family members I care about."

Faith digested what Angel said and replied, "I think you're pretty cool...for a dead dude, and Breanna...she's the grandmother every body with a brain wants. I wish B were here to meet her." Thinking of B never failed to put a smile on the dark Slayers face and now was no exception.

With Angel only limping slightly as they walked into the house, Willow came running out to greet them. "Angel you're hurt!" Then the witch noticed the drying green goop on Faith's pants as well.

"Faith, are you alright?"

"Yeah Red, I'm fine and 'Gramps' will be too. So, what has my favorite bookworm learned while we were gone?"

RING RING

Willow's cell phone rang and she answered it thinking, 'saved by the bell temporarily'.

"Hello? Oh hi Giles."

"Willow, I have more information for you regarding tonight's activities."

"Does it have to do with a transformation?"

Faith's eyes shot upwards as those words. "What are you talking about Red?"

"Faith, give me a minute and I will try to explain."

The brunette said down, crossed her legs and pouted...letting all concerned know that patience wasn't one of her strong suits.

"Talk fast and explain faster Giles, Faith is glaring at me now."

"Well umm, yes. When the diamond explodes..."

Willow cut him off, "Explodes?"

Faith sat up and Angel looked at her too.

Giles continued on, " When it explodes a sliver will enter Faith, she needs to use her Slayer healing to absorb it. Under no circumstances must it be removed."

"Why not? That sounds dangerous to her and I won't be a party to that. Never mind what Buffy would do to me."

"That sliver will pass along the last bit of magic from the gem. It is written that if accepted, it will grant the bearer great healing abilities."

'WILL, DON'T DO IT. PROTECT FAITH...YOU PROMISED." Buffy yelled and grabbed the phone out of Giles' hand.

"Buffy, I can't change what will happen. She will be fine, trust me." Willow prayed to God that it would be true.

"I don't like it Will. She is gonna be hurt...again." Buffy growled and Willow knew better than to lie.

"Yes, she will be. But only for a few minutes until her new healing ability kicks in."

That was the last straw for Faith. She grabbed the redhead and spun her around.

"EXPLAIN...NOW!"

Willow swallowed heavily. Faith could be very intimidating when she wished to be.

"Asliverofthejewelwillgiveyouhealingpowers," Willow said quickly before babble mode could take over.

"Wha...I'm gonna get a piece of the gem imbedded and get some kind of super healing?" Faith was understandably confused and a little scared as well.

Faith grabbed the phone out of Willow's hand. "B, I trust Red and if she says I will be fine...then I will be fine." *I hope.*

"I can't stand the thought of losing you Faith. Just knowing you are gonna be hurt scares the hell out of me. I wish I were there to help."

"I know B, but you have your duties and I have mine."

"I'm beginning to think you were right when you said 'duty sucks'."

Faith laughed, "Oh oh, B it looks like I have corrupted you."

"Needed it." Buffy said so soft that only another Slayer could hear.

Faith chuckled and silently agreed. "Don't worry so much. Remember your mother said we would be together when we are old and gray, so don't sweat it."

"Easy for her to say," Buffy grumbled.

"B, Red needs to talk mumbo jumbo with Giles. I promise I will call you when everything is over."

"Say hi to Petey for me. I can't wait to meet the 'man' in your life."

"B, there is something else," Faith said hesitantly.

"What?" Buffy wasn't sure she could take any more surprises.

"Well, it seems Angel and I are related by blood."

"What!?"

"His older sister, Faith, was my several greats grandmother." Faith smiled, picturing the incredulous look on her girlfriend's face.

Buffy and Giles were both shocked into silence for more than a few minutes.

Giles finally turned speaker up. "Are you sure about this Faith?"

"Yes, G-Man. Breanna put it all together earlier."

"Who may I ask is Breanna?" Giles took off his glasses and rubbed the bridge of his nose.

"She is present land owner and is my grandmother...sorta. I'm part of the American branch of this family and she is head of the Irish branch."

"Indeed, I'm happy for you Faith. I know you have always wanted a family that cared about and for you." He was truly happy for the younger Slayer.

"I got that from friends first and I won't forget that G-Man. But this is wicked cool...ya know?" Faith's excitement was contagious.

Willow, Breanna and Angel smiled at happy brunette.

"Yes well, please try to concentrate on what needs to be done tonight."

"I will G-Man. No matter what it takes, I'm coming back to B...after this is all over."

"Then there is nothing else to say but 'good luck'. Please call us as soon as the deed is done. You know Buffy will be chomping at the bit and I don't relish being put up against the wall again...or worse."

"That's my B. I love ya B, and I will see you tomorrow afternoon... Oh wait G-Man, Willow wants to talk to B." Faith handed the phone to Willow and whispered to Breanna, "I will be in the studio."

"Hi Buffy, what's up...other than your blood pressure?"

Buffy turned the speaker off and put the phone to her ear.

"Not funny Will."

"Sorry, look Buffy why don't you just concentrate on finishing your Christmas shopping and buying Faith's birthday gift. It's not every day your girlfriend turns twenty-one."

"I know Will, it's tomorrow and I really wanna celebrate it with her."

"You will, I need to get back to the spell book now Buffy. We will call as soon as it's all over and everyone is safe here at the house. Bye Buffy."

"Bye Will, tell her I love her please."

"I will. Bye."

Willow turned to Faith, "She wanted me to tell you she loves you Faith." Willow grinned at the smile that produced on Faith's face.

"I think you all might want to take a short nap to replenish your strengths. Willow do you mind sharing a room with Faith?"

"Not at all Breanna. I think a little nap is a good idea. Come on Faith...snoozy time."

"I'm not tired Red, you go ahead."

"Ribbit...ribbit."

Willow had a pretty good evil eye too, Faith thought. "Uhhhh, yeah... a nap sounds good, coming mother." Faith laughed and followed Willow to the room upstairs assigned to them by Breanna.

Chapter Nine

"Angel, please follow me. You have seen enough of your sister's artwork to know real talent when you see it. You will, of course, say nothing to Willow." Breanna crooked her finger at Angel, inviting him to join in peeking at whatever Faith had done.

Angel nodded and grinned conspiratorially as he followed Breanna to the studio. There she showed him the masterpiece that Faith had created before dinner. The souled vampire stared and reached out to touch it.

"That is the most amazing thing I have ever seen Breanna and if my sister were still alive, she would agree. Faith captured the hidden wildness in Willow and making her a Valkyrie was a great idea. It is Willow who holds us all together and heals the broken 'heroes'."

"She is amazing in her own way, just as Faith is and just as you are." Breanna's eyes sparkled and were full of life.

"Breanna, will you tell your son that I will cover all costs for Peter's tests and operation."

"I told Faith that her money is no good here...neither is yours. That boy will receive the best possible care. How long have Faith and Willow know Petey?"

"Willow has known him for about two years...Faith for only one day."

"She bonded with him and it shows. I think she would be that protective of anyone she cares about."

"Yes, she would be. It's only now that people are giving Faith a chance. They are all learning that she is a good person; she just took a wrong turn. She corrected her mistake and paid for it as well. I guess I understand her best because she isn't the only one looking for redemption."

"You don't seem blood-thirsty. Why is that Angel?" Breanna was not being judgmental.

"I have my soul back, that's why I can feel remorse for all the killing and torturing I did for almost two hundred years." Angel's guilt played across his face.

"If you give me Faith's address in the U.S., I will send all of this to her. She should have it."

Angel wrote down Buffy's address and gave it to Breanna. "That's Buffy's address, and Faith lives there now too."

"Willow told me that the two Slayers are a couple. Are they happy?"

"Yes, they are. But their first date was interrupted by the creep that kidnapped Peter. He burned Faith's hand, shot her later that night and generally pushed all of her buttons. I just hope her hatred of him doesn't cloud her judgment when we fight him tonight."

"I think Faith will do whatever is necessary to save that little boy and to defeat the evil that is here." Breanna had her hands on her hips and a look of absolute confidence in her guests.

They walked back to the library and were met by Dr. Brian Liam. After introductions were made, Angel told him about Petey.

"Bring him to the hospital tomorrow morning at eight o'clock and I will do the tests. If there is anything that can be done, I will do it. I have to be in New York next month and Los Angeles the week after that. Would I be able to meet this woman who is so hooked on a deaf kid that she would come all the way here to save him? She sounds like an amazing young woman."

"She is part of our family Bri. Her full name is Faith Winters." Breanna gave a knowing look to her son.

No one heard Faith walk in. "Are you Dr. Brian Liam?"

"Yes, I am and you must be Faith." He held out his hand and Faith shook it. "You bring the boy to me tomorrow morning and I will do the tests. Please come to the third floor, west wing, by eight o'clock."

"We'll be there. I'll find a way to pay you, I promise." Faith was happy that Petey would be tested. She just had a gut feeling that Petey could be helped.

"Listen to me Faith, I go around the world seeking out kids to help. This boy is going to be helped...period. I do this free of charge. It's my way of giving something back. My mother was right; your money is no good with me. Just be there with him and I will take it from there. Understand me though, if there is nothing I can do...I will not sugar coat it."

"Good thing Doc, I prefer the absolute truth. I know bullshit when I hear it. I used to be pretty good at it myself, but I have changed."

Faith looked away for a moment until she felt both Breanna and Angel pull her into a hug. Faith was getting used to being hugged and she liked it. "You guys are the best, thank you from me and Petey."

The hairs on the back of Faith's neck stood on end.

"Joyce! How bad is Petey hurt and don't say he isn't because we found his coat and the sleeve had blood on it."

Breanna and Brian looked at empty air wondering whom Faith was talking to. The look on their faces showed their curiosity.

"Joyce, can't Breanna and Brian see you?"

Angel smiled and waited, he knew Joyce would find a way to make her presence known to their hosts.

<Breanna, Brian...my name is Joyce Summers. I was Buffy's mother and a kind of second mother to Faith for a short time.>

The old woman and her son turned around and around. "Ummm, hello. Welcome to our home Joyce." Breanna had remembered her manners.

"From Buffy?" Faith's eyes lit up like a Christmas tree.

"Okay Joyce, I know Red wouldn't deliberately hurt me."

Willow walked into the room and upon seeing Joyce promptly fainted. Brian moved to catch her but was beaten by Angel and Faith.

"Mrs. Summers?" Willow said groggily.

"<Yes, Willow. You know what you have to do after the containment. Faith will listen to you, she gave me her word.>

"I will make sure she does Joyce." Willow said in a strong voice.

"So will I Joyce," Angel agreed with the redheaded witch.

"Someone wanna tell me what the fuck is going on? Like, right now!" Faith knew Willow knew more than she was letting on and that it had to do with a transformation that would take place inside herself.

"Channeling Yoda again huh Joyce. Neither you or Willow are going to tell me what I want to know, are you?"

<No, dear. But remember...Buffy loves you. I have to get back to her and Giles. I will see you all after you succeed.>

Joyce vanished, and the Sunnydale contingent just shook their heads.

"Is she gone Faith?" Breanna asked softly, not wanting to insult the woman if she was still here.

"Yeah Gran, she's gone...till the next time." Faith gave a forced laugh.

BACK IN SUNNYDALE

Buffy began patrolling; her mind was not totally on the job at hand. Suddenly she felt herself being rudely brought out of her musings and tossed through the air.

*Faith would freak at my lack of concentration...then beat the crap outta them. I could use a good workout. Let's boogie.*

She sprung back from the tombstone she landed on and staked the foolish vamp. Several more came out to play. Buffy needed an outlet the vamps were it. She beat the holy hell out of each and every one before staking them.

"*What a rush, Faith was right. Slaying can be useful for the Slayer not just the innocents we protect. Faith, I love you...are you alright?*

IN BREANNA'S LIBRARY

Faith felt something through the Slayer bond. *Pain...B hurt her shoulder.*

"B!" Faith steadied herself against the wall.

Both Willow and Angel swung around with cell phone in hand. Faith grabbed Willow's and called B on her cell phone, hoping that Buffy would answer so that she didn't have to call Giles.

IN THE CEMETARY IN SUNNYDALE

RING RING

Buffy prayed it wasn't Giles with another problem for Faith.

"Hello?"

"B! What happened to your shoulder? Why are you worried? What's wrong?"

"Faith, slow down. Vamp caught me off guard and my shoulder is only bruised. I'll be fine soon. I'm worried about you and what will be happening very soon. I hate not being there to back you up."

Faith smiled and started to breath easier. "I'm not real happy about not being there to help you patrol. Make sure Giles checks out your shoulder."

"So how is your new family?" Buffy knew Faith would be over the moon if not for Peter's disappearance.

"They're great B. The Doc is gonna test Petey before we come back tomorrow." Faith saw Breanna motion that she would like to speak to Buffy.

"B, Gran wants to talk to you."

"Gran?" Buffy was curious about a woman that Faith obviously cared about and in only one day. *Well that's all it took for Petey to get to her.*

"Breanna Liam, our hostess with the mostest." Faith handed the phone to Breanna.

"Hello Buffy, I know Faith is very worried about you...and cares very deeply. I hope you know how lucky you are to have her heart young lady. If you ever make her cry...I will make you cry."

Buffy swallowed, "Yes M'am, I understand." *Faith finally has a family that loves her for her. I'm happy for her, but I better be careful. Gran sounds very protective of my girlfriend.*

Faith growled, "Gran I love you...but if you ever threaten B again..."

"You better let me calm her down Breanna."

The woman handed the phone to Faith.

"It's okay Faith, she just wants to protect you. That's what a real family does. I expected something like that. Don't you remember what my mother said the first time she met you?"

"Yeah, I'm just not used to having a family that cares about me...really cares, ya know?"

"Well get used to it. Now you have your family of friends and blood relatives too. I still can't get over that you are related to Angel." Buffy thought that Angel and Faith were close as friends and wondered if being related would change that.

"Does it bother you B?" Faith asked softly.

"No Faith, after the shock wore off...it kind of made sense. I told you that you and Angel were a lot alike. Now we know why."

"B, we need to get your mother to stop hanging out with Yoda. She keeps popping up and giving me confusing messages about what will happen tonight. I think Red knows a lot more than she is willing to tell me." Faith walked out of the library, out the front door to gain more privacy.

"Are you scared Faith?" Buffy hated not being able to take her girlfriend into her arms to comfort her.

The affirmative reply was said so softly that only another Slayer would have heard it.

"Petey is hurt...and I can't find him. I know he is close by. And the bastard did hurt him. Red found his coat and the sleeve had blood on it." Faith growled.

"He will be fine Faith. You WILL rescue him, deal with the baddie and then come home to me for Christmas." Buffy almost let it slip that she knew the twenty-fourth was Faith's birthday and that a party was planned at the Giles' and the later at the Bronze.

"When you say it like that, I almost believe it B." Faith wanted more than anything for things to go like Buffy said they would but was afraid that she would screw things up.

"You listen very carefully to me Faith."

"I always do B."

"Good...I LOVE YOU! And if you don't come back to me, I will drag your gorgeous ass outta heaven, and tie you to my bed and lose the key permanently." Buffy huffed.

"Don't think you would find me there B. I would end up in some nasty limbo because heaven doesn't want me and hell is afraid I'll take over."

"We are really gonna have to work on that self depreciation you have going there. Hang on, something is moving over there." Buffy swung out with her left foot and connected with...Giles.

"Bloody hell that hurt Buffy. I was worried about you, so I came to look for you." Giles said while rubbing his shin.

"B?...B are you okay?" Faith was getting frantic. She had heard Buffy connect with something.

"Yeah Faith, it was Giles and he is doing a little 'not happy' dance at the moment. My foot kind of connected with his shin." Buffy snickered and tried to put an innocent look on her face.

"Poor G-Man. Ask him if I can have the next dance." Faith laughed.

"K, hang on. Hey Giles, Faith wants to know if she can have the next dance?" Buffy almost lost it when she saw the look on her Watcher's face.

"Har, bloody, har. Give me that." Giles grabbed the phone out of Buffy's hand. "Faith are you sure that you are adequately prepared for tonight's battle?"

"Yes, G-Man I think so. But it would be a hell of a lot easier if you and Red would tell me what's gonna happen to me. This transformation kind of weirds me out...ya know? I mean will I still be me?"

"Yes Faith, your personality will remain unchanged. I have it on good authority that you will be better than ever after tonight."

"Uh huh, and whose authority would that be?"

"Joyce."

"You don't play fair G-Man." Faith pouted.

"Never said I did Faith. Just do what you feel is right. I trust you." Giles realized that he meant every word and it felt good.

"Thanks G-Man, can I speak to Buffy again before I go?"

"Of course, please remember to call us when this is all over."

"I will."

Giles handed the phone back to Buffy.

"Faith be careful. I love you."

"I love you too B and you can bet I'll be coming home to you as soon as I'm able to. We will be at the airport around noon your time. I will have to return Petey to the orphanage and work there for a few hours. It's his birthday tomorrow and I promised him I would be there." *Shit, one day's pay...maybe, won't buy anything good for B, Angel, Red or Petey. I have a drawing for Red, I wonder if B and the rest of my friends would mind if I gave them just a drawing?*

"Okay Faith, be careful tonight and call me as soon as it's over."

"I will, I promise B. Bye."

"Bye."

Buffy turned to Giles who was still limping. "Giles, I'm sorry about that...and everything else. I know I am worried about Faith, but that is no excuse for going postal on you. I don't understand why I am so worried. I mean Faith can take care of herself and she has Willow and Angel for backup. It's just..."

"I think I am beginning to understand Buffy. Did Faith know about you hurting your shoulder?" Giles knew that Buffy would never hurt him deliberately.

"Yes, how did you know she knew about that?" Buffy was beginning to think along the same lines as Giles. *Our bond, it's acting wonky.*

"I believe your Slayer bond is transmitting your emotions to each other and feeding off of it, making it a lot more emotional for each of you. We will need to work on teaching you both to filter out each other when not together."

"But Giles, feeling each other is a good thing. We can, if in the same city, go to each other's aid." Buffy wanted desperately to make their bond work for them, not against them.

"You need to learn how to selectively filter what passes through your Slayer bond.

AT BREANNA'S HOUSE

Faith walked back inside and not watching where she was going, knocked Willow on her ass.

"OW!...again." Willow complained as she jumped back to her feet, rubbing her butt.

"Sorry Red, mind was elsewhere."

"Yeah, listen to me Faith. I think your Slayer bond is messing you up. You feel everything Buffy is going through, which means she feels everything you are. You will need to learn to control your emotions and what you send through the bond. Maybe Giles can help when we get back."

"That never happened before...why now Red?" Faith was genuinely curious. She thought she knew, but needed confirmation.

"Probably because you love each other and you both know it...now. You worry about each other more and being thousands of miles apart and preparing for a battle doesn't make it any easier."

"This love thing is getting really complicated," Faith groused.

"It's worth it Faith, just hang on a little while longer."

"How much time do we have before I have to do whatever it is I'm supposed to do?"

"About three hours, why?"

"I'll be in the studio...knock before coming in." Faith walked away as visions of portraits danced through her head.

Faith walked into the studio, closed the door, went over to the drawing she had created for Willow and gently ripped it off the large pad. She grabbed a long tube, rolled the picture up and put it in the tube and then capped it. She wrote Willow's name on it and put it where she could find it.

Faith knew what she wanted to draw for Angel's gift, but she had to seek out Breanna first. So she started drawing the Summers' family instead. She quickly finished with the Joyce and Dawn part of the portrait and sat back.

Feeling the hairs on the back of her neck stand up, she didn't bother to turn around.

"Hello Joyce, more messages that make no sense?"

"I don't have any money to buy gifts this year, so I thought...maybe people would like...never mind, it was a stupid idea." Faith reached for the picture she was working on but her hand was stayed by Joyce.

<Don't you dare do anything to that picture Faith. It's the most beautiful thing I have ever seen. But where is Buffy in it?>

"I haven't added her yet. You mean that Joyce? You really like it?" Faith thought that Joyce would not admit it if she hated it.

<No Faith, I don't like it...I love it.> Joyce smiled at the nervous young woman.

Faith blushed and was drawn into semi solid arms for a needed hug.

"Was too busy being a bitch." Faith tilted her head and gave a quirky smile. "Did you know it's a family trait? Being able to draw I mean?"

"Family...what a great word." *Never thought I would think or say that.*

"Joyce, will you go be with Buffy when the fight goes down. Our Slayer bond is acting kind of wonky and she may feel whatever I do and if Giles is around, he may get hurt."

"I appreciate that Joyce, but please go to B." Faith wanted Joyce as far away from whatever was gonna happen and she knew Giles would need all the help he could get handling Buffy. *This transformation, no one will tell me about will probably hurt like hell and B will feel it. I need to talk to Red.*

Faith quickly added Buffy to the picture and shaded the whole thing.

<Add yourself to that picture Faith, you are part of my family too.?

"I will do one of B and me later. This is just the Summers' family. I did one for Red, wanna see it?" Faith asked smiling.

<Twist my arm.> Joyce laughed.

Faith pulled the picture out of the tube and handed it to Joyce.

Faith's stunned look caused Joyce to put her arm around her.

*Artsy fartsy?* Faith burst out laughing. "Joyce you really are one in a gazillion. Thank you for your confidence and just for caring about me."

"Thanks Joyce."

Faith smiled as Joyce faded out. The brunette rolled the new picture up and put it into a tube and labeled it B. She ran back into the main part of the house looking for Breanna.

"GRAN?"

Breanna came out of the kitchen, "Yes dearheart?"

"When you showed Angel his sisters artwork, was there a self portrait?" An idea was beginning to take shape in her head.

"Yes, come with me." Breanna hobbled in the direction of the library. Faith scooped up the old woman and carried her into the room and set her down gently on the sofa.

"Can you describe her to me please, and I will look through this stuff...if you don't mind that is?"

"Not at all dear. She looks a lot like you actually, but she had green eyes."

*Like B. Don't go there now Faith.*

Faith went through the paintings first, and then the sketches. She found a sketch that looked amazing like her. She brought it out and showed it to Breanna. "Is this her?"

"Yes, it is. May I ask what you are going to do with it?"

"I want to create a picture with both of Angels' Faiths'. You probably think that's a crazy idea huh?"

"Not at all young lady and this constant putting down of yourself is going to stop...right now!" Breanna took Faith's face in her hands. "I don't know or care what happened in your past. I see a very beautiful, talented young woman. That's all anyone sees now. The past, whatever it was, is the past. Leave it there."

"Where have you been all my life Gran?" Faith loved the feeling of being loved and of being a part of a family.

"Right here dear, waiting for you. You know Faith, when I was a wee child a gypsy woman told me that late in my life a long lost family member would come home. So you see dear I have been waiting for you for almost eighty years."

Faith's mouth dropped open, "Sorry I'm late Gran." Faith cracked.

"Better late than never dear." Breanna hugged the overwhelmed young brunette. "Now bring the rest of those sketches over here and I will point out your ancestress at various ages."

Faith grinned and handed Breanna a stack of drawings. Breanna flipped through them until she found the one she wanted. "This is your great great great great grandmother...Faith Liam."

Faith took the drawing and held it reverently. She drew in a deep breath and looked at it. "WOW GRAN! I really do look like her kind of."

"Yes dear, she was and you are, a beautiful young woman. Now be gone with ya and Faith?"

"Yes Gran?" Faith spun around to give her full-undivided attention to Breanna.

"Would you consider doing a portrait of me?"

"I'll get right on it Gran, after I do the one for Angel."

"Thank you dear, I expect you to sign it with your full name and today's date if you please."

Faith jokingly saluted the old woman and headed back to the studio.

Willow walked into the library and came over to sit beside Breanna. "Did you get through to her? Will she stop doubting herself?"

"I don't know if she will ever totally trust herself, but she is better now. If she comes out of the studio before the battle, give her your phone and let her call her girlfriend. Maybe this Buffy can calm her down some."

*Or heat her up. Oh goddess, did I really think that?* Willow blushed several shades of red all at once and Breanna didn't miss it. She just smiled. "I found a book I think you should have."

Breanna handed Willow a very old book. Willow looked questioningly at the old woman.

"This book is over two hundred years old dear. It has several centuries of Wicca knowledge in it."

"I...I can't take this Breanna. It's...it's special to your family."

Willow stuttered nervously and played with her hair.

"Listen to me young witch. Faith is part of your family without having the same blood, is she not?"

"Yes, she is...but..."

"But me no buts missy, you are part of this family too. I know you will use what is in there for only good. But you must promise me to give it to Faith's child, if there is one that shows an interest in magic."

"I promise Breanna." Willow carefully opened the book and saw that it contained spells, star charts and celestial observations, as well as lists of ingredients for healing poultices. Most were written in Latin, which Willow could translate with a program she designed.

IN THE STUDIO

Faith closed her eyes for a few moments, picturing exactly what she wanted to do before picking up the pencil. She sketched her ancestor first, rubbing out and redoing it several times until she was satisfied. She stood back a few feet and gazed at it critically. *Not bad, if I do say so myself.* With her ancestor on the far left, she added Angel in the middle and then herself on the right. Both Faiths' were in semi-profile and Angel was facing outwards. His hands joined the brunette's across time.

KNOCK KNOCK

"Who is it?"

"It's me Faith," Willow answered. "Can I come in?"

"Yeah Red, I need your honest opinion."

Willow came in and saw the drawing that Faith had just finished.

"WOW Faith, that's beautiful. Is that Angel's sister?" Willow could see the family resemblance between all three people.

"Yeah, we kind of look a bit alike huh? Do you think Angel will like it? I don't have money for Christmas presents this year so I..."

"He will love it Faith. Got one for me too?"

"Of course Red, but you won't see it till Christmas day."

Willow pouted and then smiled, "Okay Faith...I can wait." *It's only two days...it's only two days...*

"Red I need to ask you for a really big favor." Faith chewed her bottom lip.

"Name it Faith."

"Tonight...when we...if I...B..." Faith couldn't even get the words out.

"You are not gonna die tonight Faith, I promise you. Follow me." Willow took Faith by the hand and led her back to the bedroom they were in earlier.

"I don't need a nap Red. I'm too keyed up to sleep." Waves of nervous energy radiated off the young Slayer.

"I know that, I just thought maybe you would like some privacy to call Buffy." Willow handed the dark girl her cell phone and closed the door on her way out.

Chapter Ten

Faith grinned as Willow closed the door behind her. *Red seems to know just what I need...before I even know what I need. She really is amazing.*

Faith hit the speed dial and hoped Buffy still had her cell phone on. Being mobile would be necessary for what she had planned.

RING RING

Buffy pulled out her phone, "Hello?"

"Hey B, how's my girl?" Faith said in a sultry voice.

"FAITH! Is everything okay?"

"Yes, I just wanted to talk to you and maybe try something before the big fight. Where are you right now and what are you wearing?" Faith's voice dripped with desire, something Buffy didn't miss.

"I uh..." Buffy felt Faith's voice play on every erotic nerve she had in her body, from the tip of her toes to the blonde roots on the top of her head. *Where am I, good question.* Buffy shook her head and looked around. "I'm in the guest bedroom at Giles', and since I just got outta the shower...I'm only wearing a towel at the moment."

The Dark Slayer had no problem picturing her beautiful girlfriend naked. After all, it sure as hell wasn't the first time. Faith groaned, "Damn B, I really wish I were there with you." Faith could feel her juices running down her legs already.

"God Faith, I want you so much. I swear, when you get back, you're not leaving my arms." Buffy was panting; her need was beginning to overwhelm her.

"Lemme try something...if it works, it might just help that itch we both have. Are you game?" Faith had stripped her clothes off while talking to Buffy and was ready...oh soooo ready.

"Lay it on me." Buffy thought it would be more phone sex. But Faith had other ideas.

"Okay B, drop the towel and lay down on the bed for me." Faith licked her suddenly dry lips. Picturing the gorgeous blonde was making her very horny and she knew they both needed relief.

"Done, now what?" Buffy was as anxious as her dark counterpart. Her right hand was slapped by her left as it slid down between her spread legs. *Gotta wait...Faith say something, do something...oh god, so wet.*

Faith smirked, sucked on her fingers and started rubbing around her nipples causing them to stand up nicely. *Christ B! Gotta have you.*

Buffy's nipples responded and she gasped out loud. "Faith! what...oh god that feels so real." Buffy squirmed beneath the loving touches she felt coming from Faith.

Faith closed her eyes and imagined that she was kissing Buffy; she licked the blonde girl's bottom lip before sending her tongue in to do battle with Buffy's willing tongue. *God I can almost taste her.*

Both girls moaned. Their Slayer bond was working just as Faith hoped it would. The dark girl put her phone on speaker so she could use both hands to please her girlfriend. *This use of the bond is so not in the Slayer's handbook. I should know, I read the damn thing.*

She slowly slid both hands down her sides and back up to her ample chest. Cupping her breasts, she squeezed lightly and rubbed the now rock hard nipples. *B and I could write a whole new handbook...okay mind, now is not the time to be thinking of any fucking book.* Faith moved her hands down on her body, using her baby fingernail to dig into the skin, leaving a red mark that would disappear in minutes.

Feeling the phantom touches was Buffy's undoing. Her primal Slayer wanted out, and out she came with a growl. "Faithhhhhhhhh."

Faith matched the blonde growling and letting her primal side out.

"Fuck me B, I can't wait." Faith slipped two fingers into herself and went straight for the smooth patch.

Buffy came off the bed arching her back. When she came back down, she inserted two fingers into herself. Faith came off the bed this time. "Oh god B, yeah...there...harder..."

Buffy rubbed her hot spot rapidly bringing Faith to the edge in no time. Faith pictured her lover and sent the picture of her licking her girlfriend slowly.

Both girls were covered in sweat and gasping for breath. Faith tweaked her nipple and Buffy returned the favor.

"Faithhhhhhhhh...I'm gonna...."

"Right with ya B..."

Both girls were riding fingers, not caring who's they were only that they were pushing them both over the edge together.

"FAITHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

"BBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBB!!!!!!!!!!!!"

Buffy dropped her phone as she came and she came harder than she ever had in her life.

Faith wasn't sure if she lost consciousness or not, but she knew her orgasm was the most powerful she had ever experienced.

DOWNSTAIRS

Willow blushed and Angel smiled when they heard Faith scream out B's name. At first Breanna was worried about Faith, thinking something had happened to the other Slayer. But looking at the embarrassed redhead, she realized what she had heard and she smiled.

"Well I always knew the Winters' clan were aggressively hot, but that was...anyone else need a drink?" Breanna wiped her forehead and went over to the bar.

IN FAITH'S ROOM

When Faith had recovered enough to talk somewhat normally, she took the phone off speaker and said; "Holy shit B, that was amazing, god I want to be there with you so badly baby."

"Amazing doesn't begin to cover what that was," Buffy said still gasping for breath.

"CU of SB." Faith laughed out loud, knowing she would have to clue B in on what that meant.

"HUH? For those of us who are still working on Faithese, I repeat... HUH?"

"Creative Use of Slayer Bond, of course." Faith laughed again, but this time she heard her fellow Slayer joining her.

"Figures the Council wouldn't tell us about this usage. Can you see the old fogies if they knew?" Buffy giggled.

Faith wasn't sure which she loved more, Buffy's laugh or hearing her giggle like a little girl.

"Old farts would probably keel over, and then decide we need reprogramming."

"So we don't tell them. But I definitely wanna try that again sometime." Buffy breathed softly and it sent shivers up Faiths back.

"Anytime B, I just want you any way I can get you, whenever I can have you." Faith knew she needed to get off the phone and soon. As much as she wanted to go again with her oh so sexy girlfriend, she also knew she needed her strength and stamina for what lay ahead. "B, as much as I hate to do it...I gotta go. I love you." Faith sent a kiss through their bond, a soft but passionate kiss that Buffy reciprocated.

"I love you too Faith. Come back safe."

"I will...bye."

"Bye." Now that their little interlude was over, Buffy's fears came back. She tried desperately to push them down, knowing that they would only hinder what Faith had to do. * This is the only way I can help her.* She quickly got dressed, intending to go downstairs and wait it out with Giles. Then she felt her mother's presence.

"From your lips to God's ears." Buffy's hand went over her mouth the minute she realized what she had said.

Joyce just laughed. <You should know that she is just as worried about you patrolling alone as you are about her fight tonight.>

"Do you think I'm being over protective of Faith?" Buffy looked down at her feet.

<Yes.> Joyce smiled at her daughter, remembering what it was like to truly love someone and not be able to be with them.

"Mom!." Buffy yelled and tried to swat her mother's arm.

<Buffy, my darling daughter, I love you...you know that, but you know that Faith is a very capable young woman. She can look after herself and she has both Angel and Willow as backup. So yes, I think you're a little out of control worrying about her. But I do understand why.>

"Thanks Mom...I think."

FAITH'S ROOM

Faith stretched and smiled. She didn't remember ever feeling this good about herself or anything in her entire life. *Whatever it takes B, I'm coming back to you.* The dark haired beauty got up, took a quick shower and dressed. She came downstairs and went to the library, knowing that was where everyone was. When she walked in, she still had a silly-assed grin on her face.

Breanna's eyebrows went up and she smiled at Faith. Angel coughed and looked away. Willow blushed all known shades of red and quickly covered her mouth to block the giggles.

Faith caught on quickly and was totally mortified that her friends had heard her. Her face would have given Willow's hair competition. *Fuck me, they know what I was doing...well not know exactly, but...I need air.* Faith sucked in a deep breathe, licked her lips and silently slunk out of the room.

"Uhhh, I need some air."

Angel stayed Willow, saying, "Let me." Angel went out to talk to Faith.

"Faith, we didn't mean to embarrass you."

"I kind of think I deserved it Gramps. I just...she is...and...and.."

"She's Buffy, you love her. You both want, and need to be with her. What about that wouldn't any of us understand Faith?"

Faith looked up into eyes showing only understanding and caring. "Thanks Gramps."

Angel reached into his pocket and pulled out the blue silk handkerchief.

"You will need this soon...Granddaughter."

Faith took the package from and Angel and unwrapped the gemstone that would cause so many changes. "Looks kind of plain." Faith tossed the diamond up and down repeatedly, catching it with accuracy without looking.

"Why don't you tell me what you know Angel, please?"

"I don't know much Faith. I didn't exactly pay much attention. I was too busy being a drunken leech. All I remember is that someday a 'Handler' would be born into our family and she would need this. It was supposedly made by a very powerful warlock. It was designed to imprison an immortal demon. If the demon is not contained and the sacrifice is made successfully, then hell on earth would be a picnic compared to what will happen."

Faith was quiet for a moment, the thoughtful look on her face kept Angel silent as well.

"I won't let you down Gramps, at least I hope I won't," Faith said quietly.

"That thought never entered my head Faith. As soon as I realized that you were the "Handler', I knew we would be successful. When you want something Faith, you move heaven and earth to get it. You were right when you said everyone else is more worried about the demon and the prophecy. You are really only here for Peter, and taking out this demon is the only way. You would do anything for that kid. Your motives are pure and your anger is, for lack of a better word, righteous."

"Thank you Angel." Faith was not a woman of many words and Angel knew that. "Let's get this show on the road before I loose my nerve."

"I'll get Willow, wait here." Angel went back in the house, looked at Willow and said, "It's time."

Willow blew out a breath, took another deep one, let it go and nodded.

"Wish us luck Breanna." The redhead stood up and put on her resolve face.

* I can do this. Goddess protect us all.*

"May the family leprechaun rest on your shoulders dear."

Brian came running in to wish them luck also. "Willow, what is Peter's full name? I would like to try to access his medical records, if I can."

"Peter Hamilton. Thanks from me too, for helping Peter." Willow smiled as she followed Angel out to join Faith.

'The Triad of Trouble' was about to go into action. Not even thinking, the three joined hands as they walked towards the sacrificial alter.

Willow felt it first. An enormous amount of power emanating from the top of the hill in front of them. Both Angel and Faith growled, knowing the fight was about to begin. Faith pulled out the sword, and none too soon, as Willow screamed. "They're invisible. Faith at your left knee! Angel by your left shoulder!"

Faith swung her sword and felt it connect. The demon howled as it materialized. She had sliced into the gut, but it wasn't dead. Beheading it in one stroke, she looked for the next..."Red?"

"Behind you, waist level." Faith swung and the two halves of demon appeared before vanishing.

"Angel! Duck and roll." Willow's witch sight was only one of their aces in the hole.

Angel followed Willow's instructions and he felt the demon. He snapped the neck it appeared and disappeared.

Suddenly an army of vampires came out of nowhere, using their speed to confuse and try to separate the fighters. Faith and Angel moved back to back in a classic fighting stance.

"In for a penny," Angel said.

"In for the pound. Duck!" Faith beheaded two vamps with one swing.

"Nice moves," Angel said as he took out three newbie vamps.

"Not bad yourself Gramps." Faith grunted as one lucky punch winded her temporarily. Angel took immediate offense at that and punched the vamp responsible before grabbing the extra stake inside Faith's coat.

The vamp dust was so thick that it caused both Slayer and Vampires alike to choke on it.

"Red, take cover...NOW!"

"Don't need to tell me twice, " Willow mumbled as she raced for the alter. She saw Peter cuffed to the large stone first, and unfortunately she saw the big bad second. He threw a fireball at Willow. She barely managed to shield herself in time. She could see that Peter been drugged. The distinctive odor of chloroform was still in the air.

Both witch and demon started mumbling Latin phrases too quick to be understood but any but the initiated. Red balls of fire formed in the demons hands. A blue shield appeared around Willow and Peter, now that she was touching his bare arm.

Willow began repeating what she had read in the book Breanna had given her. The demon shook it head as it fully showed itself for the beast it was. *OH SHIT!* was all Willow could think. "Uh...guys?" Willow croaked out.

"Little busy Red," Faith yelled back as she double dusted a couple of vamps that foolishly came in range. Faith took the split second to look, when her brain caught the sound and scent of fear coming from Willow. "OH FUCK! ANGEL? Can you get to Red?"

"Now is your time Faith...do what you we born to do," Angel grabbed her sword and started spinning it around faster and faster until it sang. Vamps went down by the dozen. "Father, this is for you. I knew this sword was meant for me somehow." Every last vamp went down before the singing sword and Angel's wrath.

"Aye, that it was boyo." Angel saw his father's ghost for a minute. He saw forgiveness and pride in the old man's eyes. He dropped to his knees, the blood tears flowing freely.

Faith raced up to Willow. "Do your thing Red, I'm ready."

Willow began chanting again, Faith pulled out the gemstone and the demon howled. He lurched forward to grab the diamond but Faith was quicker.

"Faster Voo Do would be good Red," Faith said as she stayed just out of reach of the pissed off demon. Ducking fireballs and keeping the diamond away from it was taking all of her avoidance skills. The Demon managed to swipe across Faith's leg, the same one that was barely healed. It buckled and Faith lost her balance for a second and that was all the demon thought he needed. As Faith landed on her ass, Willow completed the spell.

"NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!" The demon was sucked into the gem that Faith still held. "About freaking time...uh, oh oh. I got a bad feeling about this."

Willow dove on Peter and covered him with her own body. She knew the gem was going to explode.

And it did.

KABOOMMMMM

Faith screamed as several shards invaded her body. She was encompassed in a ball of swirling blue energy. It was as if she were in the eye of a hurricane, the debris from the diamond whipped around her without touching her, which she figured was a good thing. She was in enough pain as it was. She screamed continuously, twisting to the left and right, as she was elevated off the ground.

Angel came running up in time to see Faith floating just out of reach.

"Angel, break the cuffs on Peter. Let me handle Faith," Willow said in a tone that was meant to be obeyed.

Angel didn't move, he was staring at and trying to think of a way to help Faith.

"ANGEL! Help Peter." The redhead pushed Angel over toward the alter stone, "Faith, listen to me. Remember your promise to Joyce?"

"It hurts Red, make it stop...pleaseeeee...AAAAAA!!!" Faith begged.

"FAITH! DO YOU LOVE BUFFY?"

"Yes," Faith screamed.

"DO YOU WANT TO GET BACK TO HER?"

"Yes," Faith screamed even louder.

"Then do exactly what I tell you."

"Just make it stop...please Red...make it stop." By now Faith was covered in blood from the flying shards. She realized that they were coming out of her body to join the windstorm.

"Only you can do that Faith. You have to accept the one special shard. Let your Slayer Healing absorb it. You need to relax, and don't you curse me either."

"Sliced to shit, bleeding like a stuck pig, stuck in the middle of a windstorm of sharp things...and you want me to fucking relax?"

Willow smiled up at the hovering brunette, "Yes, actually, I do."

Faith stared incredulously at the calm young witch.

Angel came back over to the two women. He gently set Peter on the ground and looked at Willow first, then Faith. He shook his head and put on his game face. *Thank god the kid is out cold. Faith, forgive me...this is necessary.* "SLAYER!!!"

Faith's head snapped up and she looked over at...the vamp form of Angel. Once Angel knew he had her attention, he changed back to the human form. He started doing the deep breathing exercises he had taught her. Slowly, he breathed in and out. Willow seeing what he was doing, joined in the deep breathing. Faith closed her eyes and tried to find her center. She breathed in unison with her friends. The whirlwind stopped and she came back down to the ground. The blue energy was still present, but didn't seem to hurt the bewildered young woman. All the shards had come out of her body now and fell harmlessly to the ground, except the one just above her right temple. Faith could feel the shard becoming one with her. *At least it doesn't hurt anymore.* She remained calm, as the shard became countsunk but the tip remained visible. At last Faith began to breath easier. She opened her eyes and put her hand on her still bleeding leg. Her eyes glowed with silver specs and the visible part of the magic shard also glowed. A minute later, she moved her hand and her leg was totally healed, as were the rest of the cuts and bruises she had sustained in the fight with the horde of demons and vamps as well as the fight with herself. She teetered and swayed until Angel caught her.

"Willow, pick up Peter and follow me back to the house. I will bring Faith." The souled vampire gently picked up the dark Slayer and headed back towards the house. Faith whispered, "Did we do it? Did I make you proud?"

"Yes Faith, we did it and I have never been more proud of you than I am this minute."

"Petey? Oh god, is he okay? Where is he?" Faith began to panic.

"He's right here Faith," Willow turned around to show Faith the sleeping boy in her arms. "Don't freak out or anything, he's just asleep. He didn't see or...well he didn't see anything. Are you okay? How do you feel now?"

"Good...tired, so very tired," the dark girl cuddled in closer to Angel and she yawned several times in a row.

"Using your new healing ability has used up the last bit of Slayer strength and stamina you had left. You will be fine after a rest, I promise you Faith."

"M'K," Faith mumbled half asleep."

Angel hugged the obviously exhausted girl to his chest and smiled as he watched her smile and fall asleep in his arms.

IN GILES LIVING ROOM

Buffy was wearing a hole in the rug from pacing back and forth. "Why doesn't she call, something's wrong...I just know it."

Joyce smiled at Giles and they both shook their heads, it hadn't been easy keeping Buffy calm. Giles was now certain that Willow had somehow lessened the effects of the shared Slayer Bond.

"Go to her Mom, please. Tell her I love her and I'm so proud of her. And tell her to get her gorgeous ass home pronto." Both Giles and Joyce watched as the unseen weight was lifted from Buffy's shoulders.

Joyce turned in time to see Giles wipe a tear from his eye. She knew he thought of both Slayers as pseudo-daughters. He had never shown it, but he had been just a scared as Buffy.

"Wha...successful...yes of course Joyce. Please tell Faith how proud of her I am. Is the child alright? The one Faith went after?"

<Yes, Rupert. Peter will be fine as well. He was knocked out, so he didn't see anything. That in itself is a good thing. And we all know that Faith will be there when he wakes up, so he will be a very happy little boy.>

Buffy grabbed the wall and sat down heavily on the couch.

"Buffy?" Giles rushed over to her.

<Her bond with Faith is at full uncontrolled strength again Rupert. She is feeling Faith's exhaustion. Buffy closed her eyes and fell asleep on the couch.

Giles covered her up with a blanket and gently kissed the top of her head.

"Rest well now Buffy, she will be home tomorrow."

Joyce was gone when Giles turned around.

AT BREANNA'S HOUSE

Breanna was waiting at the front door for her guests return. She saw the redhead first, carrying a small child. "Brian, come quickly. The boy seems to be unconscious and Faith may be hurt again also."

When Angel came into view carrying the raven-haired beauty, Breanna's breath caught in her throat. Angel saw the fear on the old woman's face and quickly explained that Faith was just asleep. The Sunnydale crew went upstairs and both sleeping people were placed on the same bed. Willow yawned as well and Breanna pointed to the closet and Angel brought out a cot. He put a pillow down for Willow, who thanked him and laid down and then sat back up as Joyce appeared in the room.

"What gifts Mrs. Summers?" Willow asked barely awake.

<Well Willow, you gained one thousand years of Wicca knowledge. It will be there when you need it.> Joyce pointed to Willow's head.

Joyce turned to Angel. <You Angel, will retain the ability to walk in the sun until your redemption is complete and you become totally human again.>

Angel smiled, being able to be part of the world meant a lot to him and he was grateful. When Joyce turned back to Willow, the only sounds in the room were light snores.

<Angel, it looks like it's up to you to call Rupert and give him the details of what happened tonight. I know Buffy is asleep; she was almost as tired as I'm sure Faith is. I hope they sleep till morning. Oh Angel, please walk downstairs with me. I would like to speak to Breanna and Brian before I go.>

Angel went downstairs and into the library. Breanna and Brian were waiting.

"Breanna, Brian, Joyce is here and wanted to speak to you both."

"Welcome back Mrs. Summers." Breanna said. Where as Brian looked all around.

Brian smiled sheepishly and placed a wingchair approximately where he hoped the woman was.

Brian walked over to the bar, "What would you like?"

"Angel, where are the girls? And that cute little boy?"

"They are all sleeping Breanna, I didn't want to wake them. Peter was drugged, but will be okay. Faith and Willow are exhausted. I could go get them if you really want me too."

"No, let them all sleep. They've earned it."

"Joyce?" Breanna said tentatively.

"Would you please tell me why Faith is so down on herself?"

Angel saw the look that passed across Joyce's face and he nodded.

Breanna sat quietly, absorbing what Joyce had told her. "Now let me get this straight, your daughter threw the man at Faith, but Faith is the one who was blamed by everyone?"

<Yes, Breanna, that is correct. I know that Buffy was as responsible for what happened as Faith, but I didn't know that then. You see, she also tortured me, Giles, Wesley and the Scoobies. The Mayor was evil, but he gave Faith what she needed...love and acceptance.>

"So your daughter is the reason Faith has very little self-esteem and doesn't trust herself or others?"

"That man should be shot," Brian said angrily.

"So Faith has never really had anyone who gives a damn about her."

Breanna's anger was not something an intelligent person wanted to feel directed towards them.

"Why didn't you get to her before she went to that Mayor person?" Breanna stood up, hands on hips and stared at the seemingly empty chair.

"I had been diagnosed with a brain tumor and was trying to deal with Buffy and Dawn's reaction to the possibility that I would...not be there for them. Faith kidnapped and tortured me a few days later. I did try to reach her, but she was just so angry at everything that Buffy had and she didn't.>

"I'm so sorry Joyce, I didn't know." Breanna held out her hand and Joyce took it.

Breanna could swear she could feel a cool, smooth hand in hers.

"Your Buffy holds the power to make or destroy Faith...again. I hope she realizes how lucky she is to have something Faith has protected her entire life...her heart and trust."

"She does this time Breanna, why do you think she has been off the wall ever since Faith came here to battle the demon. Buffy wants so much to protect Faith from every evil that exists because she knows Faith won't ask for help. But I think that they are finally really getting to know each other and work together as a team. Only time will tell. I have to leave now, take care of Faith until she gets back to Buffy.>

"That goes without saying Joyce. She is family and I love her like a granddaughter."

Brian stood up, "I will help Peter somehow if possible and that will please her."

"Can she not heal the boy fully now?" Brian asked.

<No, she doesn't have the experience or understand the knowledge she has...yet. If you explain step by step of what you will do, she will gain the understanding she needs. There is one more thing...it's Faith's twenty-first birthday...today. I really have to go now. Goodbye.>

"Angel, is she...?"

"She's gone Breanna."

"Faith's birthday! Brian go to Mrs. Murphy now, you know she has insomnia, and have her bake one of her famous Black Forrest Cakes. She can bring it here in time for Faith to have after she gets back from the hospital with Peter. Angel, when the stores open, will you pick up a few things?"

"Yes, I will. I feel bad that I didn't know it was her birthday. I never asked. I want to get her something special too."

Angel pulled out his cell phone and he made arrangements for Wesley and Cordy to send a special package to Buffy's address.

Chapter Eleven

Brian placed the call to the best baker in the area, Mrs. Collen Murphy. Brian thought fondly of the old woman. He remembered all the pastries that had been snuck to him all while he was growing up. He also remembered the Black Forest Cake his mother had her best friend Colleen make for his twenty-first birthday. The cherries had been soaked in half a bottle of Cherry Brandy, and the rest of the bottle was used in the sauce on two layers. A goodly portion would make anyone's nose turn red. *Faith will love it.*

"Breanna?" Angel asked gently.

"Yes Angel?"

"I would appreciate it if you would give Faith my sisters family crest ring. I think it would fit on her pinkie finger."

"Aye t'is an excellent idea my boy. Should it be her birthday gift or Christmas gift?"

"Birthday gift, Breanna." Angel smiled at the elderly woman.

"Then when the stores open tomorrow, I will need you to go the wool factory. They make sweaters to order in about two hours.., if ye know the right people. Do ye perchance know the lass' size?" Ask for Finnigan O'Brien, he has several of our family crests and I would like him to put one a black turtleneck for our lovely Faith."

"I don't know her size Breanna, I'm not very good at judging women's sizes and the demons hell are a lot friendlier than a woman if you get the size wrong."

Breanna laughed out loud as Brian came back into the room.

"And what did I miss now?" Brian chuckled as he poured three healthy shots of the finest Irish Whiskey to be had and handed two of them to Angel and his mother.

"Words of wisdom my son." Breanna's eyes danced as she downed her drink in one gulp, challenging the men to do the same.

"Voice of experience actually," Angel cracked before tossing back his drink in acceptance of the unspoken challenge.

"Do tell," Brian requested before draining his glass.

"Never buy a woman clothes unless you are absolutely certain you know their exact size. If you get something too small, they think you see them as a dress up doll, and too large...well you won't have time to bend over backwards."

Brian looked at his snickering mother and then at a smiling Angel. "Okay boyo, I'll bite. Why in gods creation would I want to bend over backwards?"

"To kiss your ass goodbye." Angel said with a perfectly straight face that lasted for about five seconds before he laughed... actually laughed out loud.

"You're gonna do what, to whose what Gramps?" Faith smiled as she entered the room. There was something different about the young woman. A new confidence in herself that shone through and it made her even more beautiful.

"Faith! What are you doing up? You should be resting." Angel came over to look at her...really look at her. He saw an inner peace in her that wasn't present before.

"I'm fine...well, kind of wired really. It's like..." Faith licked her dry lips, trying to think of a way to describe was she was feeling. She closed her eyes and slowed her breathing back down to normal.

"The Singing Sword...I remember. Damn, where is it?" Angel looked around and saw it leaning against the bookcase. He grabbed it and handed it to Faith.

"Uh Gramps?" Faith took the sword and blinked several times before handing it back to Angel. It was as if a switch had been thrown, Faith felt only slightly more powerful than her old self now, not supercharged.

"The sword will take the Handlers' energy, but return it tenfold when needed." My grandfather always said that and until now, it made no sense.

"It's a battery?" Faith asked in confused voice.

"Something like that," Angel looked at Breanna and she nodded.

"You will need to keep the sword Faith, but I'm not sure how you will get it past customs." Breanna was overjoyed at seeing several of the prophecies told to her in her youth, come true.

Angel smiled, "You leave that to me Breanna. She needs it...she gets it. The less you see or know, the better."

"If Petey wakes up...I'll be in the studio." Faith glided out of the room soundlessly.

"I think that girl would be silent even with a bell around her neck...not that I would be foolish enough to try to do that to her of course." Brian shook his head. He had noticed that both Faith and Angel moved silently.

IN THE STUDIO

Faith closed the door behind her and set about working immediately. The first drawing was of Brian. She drew his portrait from the right side and placed a globe in his hands. She used the calligraphy set to etch fancy letters spelling out: HEALING THE WORLD...ONE CHILD AT A TIME. Faith placed it into a tube and labeled it Brian. She checked the tubes; Red, B, Angel, and Brian. She still needed to do drawings for Breanna, Giles, Anya and Xander. She started on the Breanna picture first. She tried to portray the woman at several ages. When the collage of pictures was done, she stood back and admired her handiwork. She signed; I LOVE YOU GRAN. Faith Winters 12-24-03.

Next she drew a library full of dusty old books and placed Giles in the center. He was looking up over one of the books and had that "I'm busy, what do you want look" that Faith loved so well.

Looking at her watch, Faith saw that is was almost four thirty in the morning. She knew she should grab a little more sleep for her own sake as this day was going to be very busy, but she was still to awake. *Hmmmm, let's see, what to draw for Xan man and Anya?* Faith snapped her fingers and then grabbed a paint brush. She put several pats of oil paint on a pallet and began to work. A beautiful house with a large oak tree out front appeared. She placed Anya in Xanders arms and had Xan man gently kissing her forehead. She used the paint sparingly so that it would dry in time to be placed in a tube like all her other creations. She sat back and smiled, *So this is what being happy feels like...I like it.*

"Shit! The sun is coming up and I wanna be there for Gramps." Faith ran through the kitchen, grabbing a large cup of coffee for herself and then went to the library to fill a flask for Angel. She knew he would be outside waiting to see his first sunrise in over two centuries. She found him near the pond that Faith had tossed the cab driver.

"Private party Gramps?" Faith handed Angel the flask.

"No, not at all Faith. I'm glad you're here. I wanted to thank you."

"For what?" Faith looked genuinely surprised.

"When you asked me for help and I knew we would be coming here...I was afraid...kind of like what you tried to tell me about how you felt about being in Sunnydale. But you made me see that the past can only become the past if 'everyone' lets it. We both have a new and exciting beginning starting today...and I have you thank for that."

"You earned everything you got Angel. If you ask me, those damn PTB's owe you large."

"Faith, look! The colors...yellow, orange and red..."The excitement in Angel's voice was something Faith had never heard before.

"And green clovers, blue moons and purple horseshoes," Faith cracked thinking of her favorite cereal Trix.

Angel's mouth dropped open and grinned at the brunette. "Trix are for kids...not all grown up Slayers."

"Kids, that reminds me. I should go check on Petey. Would you see if we can get an early breakfast? I will be taking him to see Brian and we have to leave around seven o'clock. Damn, I don't want that idiot grandson as a driver. I wonder if Gran has wheels?"

"Don't worry Faith, you will get Petey there if I have to carry you both. You go be with him and I'll see about getting breakfast started."

"Don't wake Gran, if you can help it."

"Trust me Faith, she is probably already awake. She knows that you and Petey need to leave by seven, so I'm sure she will be waiting for us when we get back. I just want a few more minutes to watch this, if you don't mind?"

"Not all knock yourself out." Faith sat back and enjoyed her coffee while watching Angel.

"Promise me Faith, that you will never take for granted being able to see something this simple."

"I won't Gramps. For the longest time watching the sun come up was just a way of telling myself that I had survived another day. Now, it's like I can't wait for every new day to begin." Faith blushed, she knew how corny that sounded but it was how she felt. "I know the stars were the first thing apart from B that I wanted to see after waking up. So not seeing this for over two centuries...well it must be totally amazing for you. Thanks for letting me share it with you."

"Would you like to spar for a little while?" Angel knew that Faith loved training and improving her fighting skills.

"You mean it Gramps?" Faith's excitement was obvious.

Angel got up, handed the flask to Faith who took a drink and then gave it back. She set her coffee cup down and squared off against Angel. "Give me a break Gramps, I haven't done this in a couple of years ya know?"

Angel gradually up the ante as Faith found her rhythm. Both were blocking punches and kicks as if they had been practicing forever together. Suddenly Angel found himself flying through the air and...SPLASH...he landed in the same pond as the driver the day before. When he came up dripping mud, moss and dirty water, Faith couldn't help it, she burst out laughing while trying to apologize.

"I'm hehehe sorry hehehe Gramps." Faith winced as Angel growled at her and grabbed her into a hug before she could do anything.

"UGH...GRAMPS!" Faith sputtered as she realized she was now covered in the same green slime and mud as Angel. Angel tried to grab her and toss her, but she was saved when Willow stuck her head out the window.

"Faith, if you two are finished playing in the mud...Peter is waking up and I think you should be here. Good thing I packed a change of clothes for you too."

"You did Red?"

"Yes, now get your mud covered butt up here and take a shower."

"Yes M'am." Faith grinned at the dirty Angel and ran back to the house as fast as her legs would carry her. Breanna opened the door and laughed as she saw Faith rush by. Seeing Angel walking towards the house and that he was also covered in mud and other things brought a smile to her face. "Who won?"

"She did." Angel looked away embarrassed.

"I think some of Brian clothes should fit you, get in here."

Brian saw and heard everything, and he smiled picturing how Angel could have possibly gotten so dirty. He had barely missed the whirlwind of Faith heading upstairs to clean up. He went back to his room and brought back a pair of jeans, boxers, sport socks and a heavy white sweater.

Angel took the clothes and thanked Brian. Ummm, Breanna, where can I shower and change? Faith will be in the shower upstairs."

"Come with me Angel, you can use my room." Brian led the way and Angel followed.

UP IN FAITH'S ROOM

Faith walked in and saw Petey rubbing his eyes. She walked over to him, signing: "give me a few minutes to clean up and then we will have breakfast."

Peter looked at Faith wondering how she got so dirty. Willow explained to the young boy that Faith and Angel were training and that they both got dirty that way. Peter looked at her and smiled.

"Hey Red, I thought you wanted me to teach you sign language. You seem to know it rather well all of a sudden. How is that possible?"

"It's part of the Wicca knowledge, a silent form of communication. Now go get cleaned up pronto." Willow handed Faith a couple of towels, shampoo and pointed her in the direction of the bathroom. "Peter and I will meet you downstairs."

"Okay Red…and thanks for the cool clothes." Faith disappeared into the bathroom and Willow, holding Peter's hand headed downstairs.

Peter was skipping while holding Willow's hand. His eyes went everywhere taking in all he could see. Breanna came out of the library and when she saw Peter, she opened her arms and he looked at Willow. When she nodded and explained she was the owner of the house, Peter ran into her arms and vanished in a great bear hug. Brian joined them and introduced himself.

Peter noticed the painting of Angel's sister on the wall. "Fai...ith." He pointed and smiled. Breanna signed that the painting was his Faith's ancestor.

Faith walked in silently as always and tapped Breanna on the shoulder.

"AAAAAAA, Faith me darling, I love you but I'm thinking Brian should put a bell around your neck."

"Sorry Gran, didn't mean to scare ya." Faith hugged the woman, whose heartbeat was slowly returning to normal.

"Are you crazy mom? Do I have stupid tattooed on my forehead?" Brian shook his head adamantly.

All the adults laughed and Peter looked from one to another, waiting for an explanation. When none was forthcoming he tugged on Faith's hand and looked at her.

Faith explained that because she walked quietly, she tended to startle a lot of people. Peter motioned her to do it. She walked across the room silently and Peter tried to do the same. But he stepped on a loose creaky floorboard, he scowled and kicked it. It popped open to reveal...a very old, handcrafted skeleton key made of silver.

"Hey Gran, do you recognize this key?" Faith asked as she turned the key over in her hand. It looked like solid silver and the craftwork was beautiful.

Breanna reached for the key and looked at it. "No Faith, I have never seen it before. But there are many secrets in this house. While you take Peter to see Brian, maybe Willow, Angel and I can look around."

"Sounds like a plan...Gran." Faith laughed. "Now, what's for breakfast? I'm starved." The brunette licked her lips as her stomach growled. She looked away as the red tinge of embarrassment took over her whole face.

Both Angel and Willow said, "Big surprise there Faith." Willow snickered into her hands when she heard the stomach growl.

Faith scowled at them and then just shrugged her shoulders.

"Angel, do you trust me?" Willow said softly.

"Yes. Why?"

Willow started chanting, and Angel felt light-headed for a minute. When the redhead was done, she smiled. "Merry Christmas Angel."

"What did you just do to Gramps?" Faith didn't miss the weak-knee effect of whatever the witch did to Angel caused.

"It's a spell..."

"No shit, what kind?" Faith asked, just short of demanding.

"Angel can eat human food for the next seventy-two hours. I...I hope you're not angry...Angel?" Willow was second-guessing herself. *Please don't let him be mad.*

"Real food? Angry? Willow you are the best!" Angel grabbed Willow and danced around the room, leaving the young witch breathless.

Peter tugged on Faith's hand and when she looked down to him, he signed; 'Who is he?'

Faith explained who Angel was...the whole truth and asked Peter to not tell anyone about him. She told him that Angel would never hurt him or anyone here. Peter signed; 'Can I see his fangs?' Faith smiled and turned to Angel.

"Hey Gramps, I just told Petey exactly who and what you are...he wants to see your fangs. Vamp out for him, will ya?"

"Are you sure Faith? I don't want to scare him."

"Go for it."

Angel shook his head and put on his game face and kneeled down in front of Peter. The child stepped back momentarily, looked at Faith and came forward again. He smiled and reached out to touch the fangs. Even the monster within smiled at the gentleness shown by the small boy. Angel de-vamped himself back to human form.

"Wic...ked coooool," Peter forced out.

Faith's eyes flew open and everyone laughed.

"He's definitely your bud Faith," Willow smiled.

Peter was going to hug Angel then decided he was a big boy. He held out his small hand to shake. Angel grinned, picked him up, set him on his hip and high-fived him instead. Peter smiled up at him and motioned eating.

"Great idea kid, let's get some chow." Angel looked to Faith to have her sign what he said. Peter squirmed and Angel put him down. The small boys hands vanished into Faith's and Angel's hands as everyone walked into the dining room. When Faith saw the large stacks of Belgium Waffles, her mouth started watering. Her eyes wandered to rest of their feast, which included two types of bacon, scrambled eggs, home fries and sausage.

"Watch the droolage Faith." Willow cracked causing Faith to growl at her.

"Now you listen to me young witch, showing a good appetite is a compliment to the chef. Let me darling enjoy her breakfast." Breanna said sternly.

"Yes M'am. I was just joking with her." Willow felt bad about upsetting both Faith and Breanna.

Angel had already served himself a good helping of everything and was well on his way to making up for the lack of real food. "Mphhh, this is great Breanna."

"Easy their boyo, don't want you to choke. There is plenty and more can be made easy enough." Brian laughed and was amazed at the amount of food that both Angel and Faith put away.

After every scrap of food on the table had vanished, both Faith and Angel leaned back smiling and rubbing their stomachs.

"That was great Breanna," Angel said licking his lips, "When's lunch?"

Faith laughed, "Lunch will be whatever we can get from the kitchen to take with us Gramps."

"With us?" Angel questioned before remembering they were all headed back to Sunnydale in a few hours. "Don't want to leave." Angel said so quietly that only Slayer hearing had allowed Faith to hear him.

"Me either Gramps," Faith answered in an equally quiet voice as she looked at Breanna. "But B is back home." Faith face lit up and she almost knocked her chair over when she sprang up out of it. "Willow, can you get Petey cleaned up? I need to take care of something before I take him to see Brian."

"Sure thing Faith." Willow took Peter's hand and they went upstairs.

"Faith, Peter is my first patient today...so I can give you a lift. You'll have to take a taxi back to here though. I need to leave in ten minutes. I'll meet you both outside."

"Okay Doc, that's perfect. Thank you." Faith headed towards the library. She closed the doors for privacy. "Joyce? Are ya busy?"

Joyce appeared. <Never too busy for you.>

Faith walked over to the older blonde woman and smiled. "Do you think B would get upset if I invited Gran to stay with us over the holidays? I mean, considering the time difference...I can't very well call and ask right now. So I figure asking you is the next best thing." Faith spirits soared when Joyce nodded.

"When she does wake up, and after she's got a couple cups of coffee into her, will you tell her? I don't wanna spring it on her when we arrive at the Sunnydale airport...ya know?" Faith sucked in her bottom lip.

<Faith, it's your home too. But don't worry, I will tell her, Giles and the Scoobies.>

"Thanks Joyce." Faith breathed a lot easier. She heard a horn and realized that she had to grab Petey and get going. She looked at the woman whom she thought of as her mother and thought to herself; *I wish she were my real mother.*

<No, you don't Faith. If I were your real mother, you and Buffy wouldn't be a couple...you would be sisters.>

Faith's face fell. "How the hell did you know what I was thinking?"

"It was written all over your face dear.>

Out of the corner of her eye, Faith saw Peter holding Willow's hand as they walked in. The young witch smiled at Joyce and greeted her. "Hello...Mrs. Summers. Is Faith okay?"

"Faith, I explained to Peter that you are taking him for tests that may improve his hearing. He told me the first thing he wants to hear is your voice." Willow smiled at the dark girl.

"Let's go little dude," Faith signed.

After Faith, Brian and Peter left, Willow asked to hold the key that the small boy had found. "Maybe I can do a locator spell to find out where it fits."

Breanna, and Angel watched as Willow held the key and chanted. She grabbed a piece of paper and drew a odd looking door. "Does this look familiar to either of you?"

"Yes dear, that door as crazy as it sounds is in the ceiling in the attic. Follow me." Breanna led her friends to the attic and pointed to the odd door.

"Angel lean down and let me sit on your shoulders, then stand up again. I'll try the key." Angel leaned down; Willow sat on his shoulders and together their combined height allowed the redhead to open the door.

CRASH

A lot of items fell out and onto the startled witch and vampire.

"OWWWWWWW," Willow screamed. Her arms were badly cut by falling jeweled daggers. Angel quickly swung around and set Willow down on the wingback chair in the corner. Using vamp speed, he ran and returned with the first aid kit. Breanna cleaned the deep four gashes first, then the smaller ones. She bandaged them and gave Willow some pain pills.

"Well me boyo, what did you find?" Breanna was looking at the pile of stuff that had fallen. She could see several daggers, swords, coins and jewelry.

Willow's eyes bugged out when she saw the coins and jewelry. "WOW! Breanna, you're rich...well richer."

"Half of it will be placed in a trust fund for the wee lad and the rest will be divided evenly amongst the two of you and Faith." Breanna gave both Sunnydalians a look that brooked no argument.

Willow didn't want to upset the old woman but said, "That's not necessary Breanna."

"I have plenty of money Breanna, please give my share to Faith and Peter," Angel asked.

"P'shaw, Angel I will split your share...but Willow, you will keep yours. Now then, I suggest that all the coins go to Peter and some of the daggers go to Faith. I would however like that one sword to go to the museum at the edge of town. It belonged to my grandfather and he found it on a deserted island during his many travels. He wanted to donate it then, but decided to will it to them instead. But when he died, the sword was missing from his personal items."

Angel had put all the gold coins, which were mostly Roman, Spanish and some silver Greek ones, into a box.

Willow had gone over to the pile and found a beautiful gold cross with a sliver of wood embedded in it.

"Willow dear, do you know what you are holding?"

"A cross."

"Yes dear, but it's a very special cross. That wee piece of wood is said to be a sliver of the holy cross that Christ was crucified on. It brings luck to the wearer, when given as a gift."

"May I give it to Faith for her birthday Breanna?"

"I think that is a marvelous idea dear. That reminds me..." Breanna walked out into the hall and downstairs. Angel and Willow followed her shaking their heads at each other, answering the unspoken question of 'what's going on now?'

Breanna picked up the phone and dialed.

AT THE HOSPITAL

RING RING

Brian answered his cell phone as he was pulling into the hospital parking lot.

"Hello?"

"You need to bring Faith and the boy back after their appointment. Ye will be wanting to celebrate our Faith's birthday before she leaves."

"I'll re-arrange my schedule accordingly." Brian smiled at the bewildered dark haired beauty.

"This way," Brian held the door open. Faith and Peter followed him to a small room in the basement.

"What the f...," Faith checked herself.

"Relax Faith, the room through that door is set up like an echo chamber. I can't let you be in there with him. I need the exact reading for him. The sound comes off the walls directly to him. It will only take ten minutes to get a full reading."

"Will it hurt him in any way?" Faith was not liking having to wait in this dingy room knowing Petey would be next door all alone.

"Not at all, and here...if your hearing is acute as I think it is, you will need these." Brian handed Faith an industrial strength pair of earplugs.

"Will you explain to Peter why you will be waiting out here for him instead inside with him, or do you want me to do it?"

"I'll do it," Faith leaned down to Peter and signed what was going to happen. She asked him if he was okay with that. He signed back, I'm a big boy...you will be here when I come out right?' Faith smiled and nodded.

Peter took a deep breath and walked into the room and stood there. Brian closed the door and went into the control booth and started the test.

Faith didn't think she would need the plugs so she put them in her pocket...until she heard the screeching sound. It was like diamond six-inch nails on a blackboard. She quickly put the plugs in and smiled in relief. They only dampened what she heard, but she was grateful.

Part way through the test, Peter stiffened and looked very confused. Brian knew then that he would be able to help the boy. He came out of the booth and opened the door for Peter to come back out.

"WELL!!!" Faith demanded as she removed the earplugs.

"Watch this Faith." Brian showed her Peter's response at minute seven to eight of the test. "He did hear or feel the vibrations at that level. I know I can help him and the rest of the tests will determine how much of his hearing that I can restore." Brian was happy that he would be able to help the boy.

Faith signed to Peter that he had done very well on that test. Peter smiled up at his hero.

The rest of the tests went well. Brian explained he would need to study the results and make a plan of action. "I will call you tomorrow or if you prefer, I can wait till after the holidays."

"Tomorrow would be perfect Doc...like getting a very special gift, ya know?" Faith wanted to see the results, but Brian explained he would share all knowledge when he had it put together.

"It will take both of us to totally help the wee lad. So I give you my word, I will explain every step I am planning and if you want, I can arrange for you to be in the OR when I am operating on him."

"How can I help?"

"Well Joyce told me I would be able to restore a little better than half of his hearing and that once you understand what's happening inside his ears, you will be able to complete what I start."

Faith looked stunned for a few moments. "Why can't I heal him totally now then?"

"I need to remove small pieces of bone from the inner ear, thoroughly clean the channel and stimulate the nerves first. Then I will show you a diagram of exactly what I did and explain what you need to do."

Faith hugged the large man unashamedly and tears fell silently. Brian handed her his handkerchief. Peter saw Faith's tears and tugged on her hand. When he had her attention, he signed; 'what's wrong?' Faith smiled and signed back that the Doc was going to be able to help him. Peter's eye's opened to their widest and he grabbed Brian's hand and squeezed it tightly. The boy signed, 'I wanna hear Faith first.' Faith saw the exchange and grinned.

"Now if I don't bring you both back to my mother, she will not be happy and a not happy mother is not a good thing."

"I get that about her. It must have been wonderful growing up with her as a mother Brian. I envy you. But she's my 'Gran' now."

"Aye, that she is Faith. I don't suppose I could trade in my worthless son for a fantastic daughter?" Brian looked wistfully at the young woman he thought of a daughter already.

Faith smiled and said, I wish that too...Pop."

Brian grinned, he knew Faith gave everyone nicknames and although he liked it when she called him 'Doc', he loved it when she called him 'Pop'. He pulled both Peter and Faith in for a family hug that lasted a few minutes, until Peter started squirming.

"We should get back now." Brian held the door open and the little group headed back towards the exit. Brian stopped to speak to his receptionist to push his other appointment back a couple of hours.

"Ummm...Pop?" Faith said hesitantly.

"Yes dear?" Brian responded quickly.

"I wanna invite Gran back to Sunnydale to spend the holidays with me and B. Does she have special plans for tomorrow and New Year's?"

"Nothing special, she will be so happy spending time with you and this mysterious woman that has your heart. Buffy, right?"

Faith smiled as she always did when she thought of her gorgeous blonde girlfriend. "Yes, B is amazing. I hope Gran likes her."

"My mother is a people person, and if this Buffy makes you happy, then she will love her as much as she loves you."

Peter pointed to the milk/juice machine. Faith bought him chocolate milk and then they went out to the parking lot. Heading back to Breanna's home, everyone was humming a happy tune.

Chapter Twelve

AT THE HOUSE

Angel had made several trips back up to what was now known as "THE TREASURE ROOM". Once all the coins, jewelry, jewel, and weapons had been put into separate piles in the library. All three present; Breanna, Willow and Angel, all shook their head in amazement.

Willow immediately went online to get average prices on the different coins, and unset jewels. "Okay we need to make two piles of coins...one that is 'FINE" and one that is "VERY FINE". Then I can do a rough estimate of what they are all worth. But I already know we are rich...really rich...Jed Clampett rich...babbling again huh?" Willow blushed beet red but kept typing in on her laptop. She used an Excel spreadsheet. The first column across the top was labeled 'Gold Fine', the second 'Gold Very Fine', the third 'Silver Fine', the fourth 'Silver Very Fine', and the fifth column just said Jewels. The far left hand column running vertically had dates; 1500's, 1500's, 1700's, 1800's, and 1900's.

Angel had gonna over the table where he and Breanna had preciously separated the kinds of coin and started to look carefully at all of the coins.

"Willow, the gold ones are all 'VERY FINE" and the majority of the Silver ones are 'FINE' and some only 'GOOD'.

It had taken over an hour for all the coins to been catalogued and a ballpark price had been reached. When Willow tallied up the total she drew in a deep breath and her mouth dropped open.

"Wrong season to catch flies witchling," Breanna cracked.

"Just tell us Willow," Angel asked softly.

In a squeaky voice, Willow replied; "the coins are worth approximately five million dollars."

"Saints preserve us," Breanna exclaimed.

"Millions?, Angel squeaked back and was just as embarrassed as Willow had been a moment ago.

Willow turned the screen around for Angel to see.

"That's one million per person...well my share get divided equally so one point two five each for Breanna, Faith, Petey and you Willow." Angel loved the stunned look on his friends face. "What will you do Willow?"

"Count it...I mean, uhhh...a million dollars...brain overload." Willow was too stunned to even continue babbling.

"Maybe we should find that chart of yours witchling." Breanna pointed to the four piles of unset gemstones. One was diamond, one emerald, one ruby and one miscellaneous.

"More? Oh yeah. Hang on till I find out about size and brilliance stuff. Willow typed furiously for a few minutes and was totally in to what she was doing that she didn't see Angel joke with Breanna by whispering, "Willow has left the building." Breanna smacked the souled vampire on the arm and he smiled.

"Okay, start with the largest and do the diamond pile first," Willow instructed. Show me the biggest ones first and I will try to guess the carat weight. Remember this is only guesswork."

"Ten large diamonds...here." Angel handed the redhead the jewels.

"Oh Goddess, that one is like three times as large as the one Burton gave Elizabeth Taylor and that was a million dollars over thirty years ago.

Breanna smacked her forehead, "If'n ya don't mind someone else knowing about the treasure, Ol Man McKinnley used to make jewelry for the 'Lass Across The Water'."

"Huh?" Willow said.

"HM Queen Elizabeth II, right Breanna?" Angel supplied hoping he was right.

"Yes. He would be better able to price the plain jewels. We could put the rest away. Willow, you wanted to give Faith this cross, hang on to it and I will find you a box and paper. Angel, go to town and get all manner of party favors. Get some for the wee lad and our Faith. Be off with ya now." Breanna handed Angel car keys and pointed out the window to the garage.

"Yes M'am." Angel left quickly.

"Willow dear would you help me in the kitchen?" Breanna shuffled off in the general direction with the redhead following her.

"Sure, what can I do to help?" Willow loved that she would be part of planning Faith and Petey's birthday.

"You can put the ham into a roasting pan and put it in the oven, then help me peel these potatoes if you don't mind."

"No problem Breanna. You know, I think this will be the first decent birthday party that Faith has ever had. I want it to be special. I know Buffy, Giles and Joyce are planning something for when we get back, but we get to start her day."

"Aye that we do Witchling, and a fine start she'll have. We'll see to it ourselves." Breanna reached for the phone on the wall and called her friend.

"Your immediate arrival with both cakes in hand would be appreciated." Breanna laughed and hung up.

RING RING

Willow answered her cell phone thinking it would be Buffy.

"Hello?"

"Willow I need you to do a favor for me."

"Name it Angel."

"Breanna has security camera's outside and on the ground floor. Would you hack in a copy any and all 'Happy Faith' pictures? I found a beautiful set of photo albums and want to start it out with those. Can you do that?" Angel asked softly, but not softly enough that Willow didn't hear the excitement in his voice.

"Piece of cake Angel. I think that is a great idea and she will love it. How thick are the albums? How many pictures do you want?"

"Fill one whole album, they have fifty pages that are twelve inches by twelve inches. You figure it out. What kind of box and paper do you want me to get for you to put the cross in?"

"Red shiny paper, and you pick a box." Willow knew Faith liked the color red almost as much as she liked black.

"Will do. When Faith gets back, give her your phone and remind her to call Buffy. Joyce told Buffy that Faith was okay, but we both know she needs to hear it from Faith."

"Okay and I better call the director of the orphanage and let him know Peter is okay. What do I tell him?"

"Tell him a crazy cult kidnapped him and Faith found out where they went and we went after him with her. Make sure he knows Faith was mostly responsible for getting him back safe. Then tell him about Peter being tested. Maybe he will cut Faith some slack and not fire her."

"I'll convince him Angel. Those kids need someone like Faith in their lives. Not just Peter. She connects to them in a way no one else ever could."

"No spells Willow, that would piss Faith off. And I don't think you want to do that."

"Nope, not at all. No spells, Wicca's Honor."

"Brian's car just pulled into the driveway. You better hurry and pick up the rest of the stuff and get back here yourself."

"I will, bye." Angel hung up and started whistling and when he realized it he smiled. *Faith brings out my humanity more than anyone ever could...even Buffy.*

Willow hung up, chanted a few words and raced outside, skidding to a stop in front of Faith and Peter. Faith looked at her wondering what was up. "I'm gonna take Peter for a walk around the estate, what's up Red?"

"Why don't you let me show him around, you need to make a very important phone call? And I put a silence spell around our room." Willow grinned and handed Faith her cell phone while pushing her towards the house and grabbing Peter's hand. She explained to the boy and they walked off together to see the horses and other farm animals. As soon as they were out of earshot, Willow borrowed Angel's extra cell and called the director. She explained some of what had happened and told him they would be bringing Peter back later today. She tapped Peter and pointed to the phone after signing it was the director. She pressed speakerphone and handed it to the boy.

"Hel...lllloooo," Peter shouted.

"He sounds alright, is he?"

"Yes, he's fine. Our host here insisted on giving both Peter and Faith a bit of a surprise birthday party. So we won't be back in Sunnydale till this afternoon. We will bring Peter straight back from the airport, I promise."

"Well since Faith has actually been working with Peter, I guess my making out her two day pay was the right thing to do." The director smiled, he knew there was something special about Faith and intended to do all he could to get her on staff fulltime.

"She will appreciate that sir. We will see you later today. Bye."

"Goodbye Miss Rosenburg."

IN THE HOUSE

Faith kissed Breanna on the cheek, "I need to call B and let her know I'm alright," then raced upstairs to the bedroom she and Willow had been sharing.

IN FAITH'S BEDROOM

Buffy's cell phone woke her up. She grabbed it, "Faith?"

"Top of the morning to ya B."

"Are you really okay Faith, I know mom said you were just tired last night…but...?

"I'm fine B, even better hearing your sexy voice."

"You're the only person with a sexy voice this early in the morning." Buffy smiled and sat up against the headboard.

"Sorry B, I thought even with the time difference, you would be awake. I can call back later, if you want?"

"No, I like waking up to your voice. It just does something to me." *Makes me wet as all get out. Only a few more hours and she will be here for real. I can wait that long...can't I?* "Got an itch from last nights slayage baby?"

*Damn B gets me so worked up, I gotta have her.* "B, where are you right now and are you alone?"

Buffy smiled, she knew Faith's need was as great as her own. "I came home to change...I'm actually in your room. I needed to...feel you and be close to you. I bet you think I'm being stupid huh?" Buffy blushed at how corny that sounded. She would have loved to see the grin that it produced on the Dark Slayer's face.

"Not at all B, I really wish I was there with you right now." Faith's arousal was transmitted through the Slayer Bond and Buffy was so turned on that she moaned deeply.

Hearing the tone of Buffy's moan made Faith moan in sympathy as she squeezed her legs together looking for some kind of relief. Both girls wanted each other in the worst way.

"Faith...lemme..." Buffy pulled on her rapidly hardening nipples and Faith sucked in her breath. "MMMMM," Faith started playing with her now fully aroused nipples and sent that feeling to Buffy.

"Oh god Faith, I want you so badly that I can't think straight." Buffy started moaning and squirming.

"Think?...screw that...feel." Faith ran her fingers down between her now soaked legs accompanied by her own loud moan of desire.

Buffy jumped when she felt the echo of Faith's fingers going inside her. She moved her own fingers into herself and groaned.

Both girls were moving their fingers at a speed only a Slayer could handle. It wouldn't take long for them to scream out their pleasure.

"Oh fuck B, I'm gonna..." Faith tried to hold back her onrushing orgasm, but couldn't anymore than Buffy could.

"Faithhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh." Buffy convulsed once and let herself totally enjoy the moment. "MMMMMMMM, Faith I love you!"

"Beeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee." Faith bounced up off the bed and resettled, still vibrating from what Buffy had made her feel. "Love you too B!"

"Faith, god baby...you are so good. I don't think I will ever let you outta my sight again. I miss ya like crazy." Buffy gushed to her girlfriend.

"B, I miss you like crazy too. I'll be home in a few hours. But I have to go to work right from the airport. Willow talked to the director at the orphanage and explained about the 'cult' taking Petey and this morning he was tested by Brian. He said he could restore more than half of Petey's hearing and then I can restore the rest. Did you mom tell you I want to ask Gran to spend the holidays with us at your house?"

"Yes Faith, she did. I can't wait to meet her...and the man in your life." Buffy giggled.

"Man? What man? There's no man in my life B, I swear!" Faith choked out.

"Petey, silly." Buffy laughed out loud and Faith smiled. The dark Slayer loved the sound of her girlfriends laugh. "I will meet you at the airport. What time should I be there?"

"About noon your time I think." *Good thing it's a public place or I might...down girl, you will be with her tonight and every night from now on.*

"Are you really okay Faith? I mean, what happened to you last night? I know you were in a lot of pain even though you somehow blocked it."

"I'm fine now B. Last night, well Red helped me to block out the pain. I didn't want you to be hurt because of me. I'm grateful for the new healing ability but...I never want to go through something like that again." Faith shuddered, remembering the pain she went through.

Buffy sent a great bear hug through their bond and felt Faith hug her back.

"B, I have to go help Petey celebrate his birthday, I'll see you in a few hours. I love you."

*Just you wait till we celebrate your birthday Faith.* "Okay, wish him a happy birthday for me too Faith."

"I will B, bye."

DOWNSTAIRS IN THE LIBRARY

Breanna had called her friend and he was cataloguing the jewels and jewelry. He gave her an estimate of approximately twelve million dollars. That added three million to each persons share. Now Faith, Petey, Willow and Breanna each had four point two five million each. Money would not be a problem for any of them. Breanna thanked him and he left.

Willow came back in with Peter and was met by Brian.

Willow dear, how is the birthday boy?"

"He's excited of course, but he wants to see Faith. She is his hero, his everything."

"Well he has good taste, our Faith is a truly amazing young woman...as are you."

IN FAITH'S BEDROOM

After Faith hung up, she quickly striped and took a shower. She redressed just as fast and headed downstairs to the library. When she came down, she saw Peter rush into her arms and she held on tight to the little boy.

Faith looked at Willow with a big grin on her face as she mouthed the words; "Thank you."

Willow mouthed back, "No biggie Faith."

When Faith and Petey went into the library they saw all manner of birthday decorations. A large Happy Birthday Faith (21) and Peter (8) banner was hung across the room along the ceiling. Faith gasped, she didn't know anyone knew it was her birthday as well.

"How? uhhhh...Red?" Faith managed to stutter.

Willow smiled at the surprised dark girl. "It's not every day a friend turns twenty-one. I saw your file and I told Buffy too, so you will get a second birthday surprise or maybe more when we get back." Willow wiggled her eyebrows knowing it would make Faith laugh or blush or both.

Faith blushed and smiled right on schedule and Willow grinned at her.

Breanna had put each persons share of the treasure into medium sized treasure chests and had left them on the floor in the corner. Her's had been put away so that there were three chests there. She thought she would feed the group first, then give out presents.

Angel walked in silently as always and saw all that had been done and smiled. He knew it would be the best birthday for both Faith and Peter. *I hope she likes the album and pics.* He walked over to Willow and took her aside to ask about the pictures.

Willow took his hand and led him over to the desk. She handed him an envelope, which he opened quickly. He looked at all of the pictures and smiled, "These are great Willow, thank you. Can you get Faith outta here for a few minutes so I can put them in the albums I left in the car?"

"Okay Angel, hang on." Willow told Breanna what Angel wanted to do and she nodded, "I know just the thing. "Okay everyone to dining room for lunch, after that...presents." Breanna looked at Faith and Petey who were looking everywhere at once. They could see the piles of gifts and they wanted to get at them.

*Perfect.* Angel ran out to the car and brought back the ornate photo albums he had bought. After putting all the pictures into one of the albums, he wrapped it and put it with the other presents in the pile for Faith. He also put the already wrapped fire truck into Peter's pile. Joining the rest of them in the dinning room, Angel smiled and nodded to Willow.

"Okay, what are you two up to now?" Faith asked after seeing the looks that passed between her friends.

"Uhhh, up to?" Willow stammered.

"Who us?" Angel added.

Peter signed to Faith; 'Presents!' Faith signed back; 'I like presents, don't you?" Peter grinned and nodded.

"Well Faith me darling, what would make this day even more special for you?" Breanna asked, wanting to grant this wonderful woman's every request for the day.

"I do have a special favor to ask you Gran..."

"You need only to name it dearheart."

"Would you consider coming back to Sunnydale to spend the holidays with all of us? B really wants to meet you...and Petey."

"You want me to come with you?" Breanna said astonished.

"I would love it, if you would. I bet Angel would put one of his jets at your disposal to bring you back after the holidays... wouldn't you Gramps?"

"Of course Faith. It's just a phone call away for personalized transportation. I told you Wolfram and Hart have several jets, so anytime you need to fly, just call me and I will send one to where ever you are."

"Thanks Gramps, you're the best." Faith walked over and kissed the stunned vampire on the cheek.

Angel smiled and hugged the dark haired woman, when he let her go, he sat down at the head of the table and prepared to carve the large pineapple and cherry covered ham. He gave the first slices to their host Breanna and then made sure everyone else had a good portion, including himself. *I missed eating real food, I have to get a really good gift for Willow.*

Peter tried a piece of pineapple on his ham that Faith had cut for him. He made a face and spit it into his hand. Everyone laughed. Faith took a paper napkin and emptied Petey's hand. She then put the ham from his plate on hers and asked Angel to cut him another slice and put it on a plate. Then she cut off all the fruit before placing it on Petey's plate. He tried it again and smiled.

"Tha...nk yoooooou."

Faith smiled and kissed the top of his head. When everyone was finished eating Breanna suggested they all head back to the library to open presents.

Willow spoke up, "Desert first." She whispered to Breanna about needing time to wrap all that Angel brought back as well as the special cross. Breanna nodded and asked Brian to go get both cakes from the kitchen where her friend, who had just arrived, was. Brian was back in a flash carrying Faith's cake and the older woman brought Petey's cake in.

"Save me a piece, I'll be back in a few minutes. Angel, would you come and help me for a few minutes please?"

"Lead the way, save me a big slice too Breanna." Angel and Willow went into the library and made quick work of wrapping everything. When they came back they each had a large slice of alcoholic Black Forest cake on a plate where they sat.

Peter's face was covered in chocolate icing and ice cream that Breanna had served him.

Angel and Willow dug into their slice of Black Forest cake and coughed.

"Wow! Getting a happy from cake...gotta like it." Willow smiled at Angel whose cake had vanished. "More please Breanna," Angel and Faith held out their plates, which Breanna loaded again with a large slice for each of them.

Peter signed to Faith; "How come you got a different cake than me?"

"Mine has alcohol in it," Faith signed back to Petey.

Peter made a face and everyone laughed. Then he shouted; "Pres...ents!"

Breanna's friend Colleen pointed to Peter and said, "What a bonnie boy...what's his name?"

"Peter Hamilton, Petey for short." Faith shook the older woman's hand and so did Petey.

"So you're the lass me friend has been waiting for huh?"

"She is well worth the wait Colleen. She is a truly amazing young woman." Breanna's favoritism was obvious to everyone.

Faith blushed redder than Willow's hair.

Brian stood up from the table and motioned for everyone to follow him into the library. When the birthday two came in they went straight for the separate piles of presents and looked at Breanna...waiting for permission to go nuts unwrapping stuff. Of course it was given.

Peter grabbed the large box in front and ripped off the paper. The fire engine that Angel had bought him had sound effects that the souled vampire hoped the boy would hear eventually. But the flashing lights amazed him as well as Petey.

"Fai...ith, loooookkkkk."

Faith smiled and pressed a different button and it rolled three feet, turned around and came back. "Wow, wicked cool Gramps."

Faith grabbed a rectangular box from her pile of gifts. The tag said from "Red". She ripped the paper off and opened the box inside. When she pulled out the cross, she sucked in her breath. "Holy...heck...Red, it's beautiful. What's with the wood sliver in the middle though?"

"It's supposed to be from the true cross and brings good luck to the wearer. Do you really like it?... cause if you don't I can still get something else when we get back to Sunnydale."

"It's perfect Red," Faith put the cross on and everyone admired it.

Petey grabbed another large box with a tag that said from Willow. He found a book all about wolves. He ran over to Willow and hugged her.

Faith grabbed a large box that was from Breanna. She found a gorgeous, soft black turtleneck sweater with the Liam/Winters clan patch on the front. "Gran! Feel this...it's soooo soft."

"I know dearheart. Angel told me your favorite color was black or red. If it doesn't fit, I can get another within an hour well before we leave. Why don't you go try it on?"

Faith flew outta the room and upstairs. She was back in a couple of minutes wearing the sweater. It fit perfectly, tight enough to accentuate her curves, but not too tight. Faith planted herself on Breanna lap and kissed her cheek.

"G'won with ya," Breanna loved seeing Faith so happy.

Peter had unwrapped several presents and Faith was determined to catch up. Soon both were sending colorful paper flying. The room was full of Wow's, holy...hecks, and silly-assed grins all around.

Faith opened a heavy present and was flabbergasted when she saw the photo album full of pictures of herself laughing and playing with Peter, Angel and Willow. "WOW! How did you do this Gramps?"

"Willow helped, Breanna has security camera's everywhere, I just asked Willow to make lots of still pics of you having fun. The second album is for pics of you and Buffy from later today and tomorrow. Do you really like my gifts Faith?"

"I love em Gramps."

Breanna handed Faith a small square box. Faith opened it carefully and found the family crest ring.

"It's from Angel and myself Faith. It's the family crest."

"I can't take this Gran, it should go to...to..."

"Faith, I had that made for my sister's twenty-first birthday. It's the only thing I ever actually worked to get. I know she would love for you to wear it as would I...please."

Faith slipped the gold ring on her left pinkie finger and admired it. "Thanks Gramps...Gran. I love it."

When the rest of the presents had been unwrapped everyone sat back looking at the mess of paper and bows. Willow and Angel pulled out a few green garbage bags from the table and put all the paper into them.

"Well, I think everyone is ready for the special gifts." Breanna smiled secretively at Faith. Willow and Angel knew what was about to happen, so they were smiling.

"They are all special Gran, which one are you talking about?" Faith was overwhelmed by the love given to her by everyone, but the wild child within wanted to know what else she was gonna get.

"Brian, Angel...if you please." She pointed to the corner and the men brought out the treasure chests with the Sunnydale crew's names on them. Each was placed in front of the owner.

"Faith me darling, remember the key that Petey found?"

"Yeah?"

"Well the young witchling found where it fit. We found a large treasure trove and I decided to share it equally with all of you. Angel refused and asked that his share be divided among you, Petey and Willow. You each have about five millions dollars worth of treasure, so money will never be an issue for any of you. While you all check out your share of the treasure, I will go pack. Ummm, will I be needing warm clothes in California?"

"Five million....dollars? Holy shit...oops." Faith blushed, *I gotta work on the language thing when around Petey.* "Yes, Gran, there was snow before we left." Faith burst out laughing remembering the look on Buffy's face when the snow fell off of the branch and buried her.

"Care to share GD?" Angel grinned at the dark haired girl.

"GD?...Gramps."

"Granddaughter, you don't mind do you?"

"Nope not at all. Family...the best present ever invented." Faith came over and Angel opened his arms, he knew she wanted to hug him and he didn't mind in the least.

"So, what was so funny about the snow?" Angel asked again.

"Well it was like this Gramps," Faith explained what happened and everyone started laughing. Brian has signed the explanation to Petey and he laughed too. He went over to Angel and pointed to his cell phone..."Buf...fy."

Angel dialed Buffy's number and waited for her to pick up. When she did, he told her Petey wanted to talk to her. "He shouts, so hold the phone away from you ear."

"Okay Angel." Buffy was excited, she wanted to meet the little boy but for now she would just talk to him and hope someone there would sign for him.

Angel put the phone on speaker and handed it to Petey.

"Hiii Buf...fy."

"Hi Sweetheart. Are you and Faith enjoying your birthday?"

Peter waited till Faith signed what Buffy had said. "Yessss, Fai...ith smil...ing, pretty Fai...ith."

Faith blushed and looked away.

"You have good taste kid, she is beautiful," Buffy agreed.

"Enough B, you're gonna make my head swell." Faith grinned and sent a chaste peck on the cheek through their Slayer Bond.

"Did Breanna say yes about coming here?"

"Yeah B, she did. She's upstairs packing now. Thanks for letting me invite her to your house."

"It's your house too Faith. Besides, I really wanna meet your family. Is the doctor guy coming too?"

"Hello Buffy, if Angel will allow another passenger I will be. I need to speak to the director of the orphanage where Peter lives. After that, well I need to catch a plane to Sydney Australia. I have three operations scheduled for tomorrow."

"But it's Christmas!" Buffy exclaimed.

"Yes, and I can't think of a better way to celebrate it than using my skills to help kids that need me. Giving them partial hearing back will be my gift to them and seeing their faces light up when they do hear something will be my gift from them."

Breanna came back into the library in time to hear Buffy say;

"Faith's right, she really does have a cool family. Hey Breanna, wanna adopt me too?"

"Absolutely, I have me darling Faith, a wonderful young witchling and now another girl. Three for the price of one. Thank you for allowing me into your family and your home. I'm looking forward to meeting you Buffy."

"Goes both ways Breanna. My mom wants to talk to you, hang on."

"Thank you Joyce."

Breanna pushed the right button and walked out of the library talking to Joyce.

"I wonder what's that's all about?" Faith looked at Brian who shrugged his shoulders.

"Knowing my mother, it's probably about more surprises for you and the wee lad later today."

"More surprises?" Faith just shook her head and grinned. "Hey Gramps, how will we get these treasure chests past customs? And don't forget my sword."

"Simple Faith, I will come back to the airport when it's dark and bring the chests and sword to you."

"That's my Gramps, always thinking ahead. Wanna a hand putting these chests into the trunk of the car?"

"Yeah, bring yours, I'll bring Willow's and come back for Petey's."

Once all the chests, sword and everyone's luggage was put in the car, there wasn't enough room for all the people. So both Brian's and Breanna's cars would take them and their stuff to the airport. Breanna called ahead to their Customs and arranged for the paperwork necessary to take the stuff outta the country.

AT THE AIRPORT

Everyone boarded the jet and got comfortable. Angel pulled out the two hundred year old Irish Whiskey and gave the adults a healthy shot.

"Sunnyhell here we come," Faith cracked.

Chapter Thirteen

AT GILES HOUSE

Buffy was running around at Slayer speed putting up birthday decorations and both her Watcher and mother just sat back shaking their heads.

<You know Giles, I never saw her move that quickly when doing housework or homework.> Joyce arched her eyebrows at the equally stunned Watcher.

Giles chuckled softly and whispered softly, "Would you rather try telling her Faith is alright and will be here in a few hours... for the hundredth time?"

Joyce smirked and shook her head.

An out of breath Buffy skidded to a stop in front of them and impatiently asked, "Well?"

"Well what?" A confused Giles replied.

"Does everything look okay... I mean, I want everything to be perfect for her when she gets here. Maybe I should take some of this stuff down..." Buffy turned but was stopped by her mother grabbing her arm.

<It's fine Buffy, she will love it.> *Like Faith will see anything once she sets her eyes on Buffy.*

Buffy scowled at her mother and sat down reluctantly but was fidgeting worse than a hyped up two year old on a sugar rush.

<Giles, if she doesn't settle down...you have my permission to De-Slayerize her for the rest of the day.>

"MOM!!!!"

"Um...err...uh...yes I believe that could be arranged," Giles said with a trace of the old Ripper smile on his face.

"GILES!!!"

ON THE WOLFRAM AND HART JET

Willow, Breanna with Petey on her lap and Brian had all fallen asleep.

Faith stomped around muttering, "Can't this jet go any faster?"

Angel smiled and came over to her. Taking her the arm, he pushed her down the passage into a small empty room. "Let's spar GD...before you put you fist through something." Angel winked at the dark haired girl in front of him.

Faith aimed a kick thinking to wipe that smirk of Angel's face... she should have known better. Angel grabbed her foot in mid air and tossed her around and backwards. As she picked herself up off the floor she swore, "Damn Gramps...nice one."

30 MINUTES LATER

A sweating Faith asked for the thousandth time, "Are we there yet?"

Angel hung his head in exasperation, "No, we should be landing in about twenty minutes.

AT SUNNYDALE AIRPORT

Buffy was watching every plane come in and "Is she here yet?"

Giles ran Joyce's earlier thought through his head before answering, *Patience dear boy...patience.* "No, she should be here in about a half hour."

"You know Buffy, when Faith goes to work...we can decorate your house for Christmas. It will probably be the first true one Faith celebrates and I believe you want her to see and feel everything that Christmas is." Giles knew Buffy wanted everything to be perfect and he was more than willing to help. The Dark Slayer had grown on him rather quickly...now that he could see the decent young woman she was. *Works with special needs kids, who would have thought it?*

"Great idea Giles, I want to get a real tree and all the trimmings....oh and lots of mistletoe." Buffy blushed when she saw the smile on her Watcher's face.

"I know of a flower shop that may have some left, let me call them now." Giles pulled out his cell and made the call. "Okay Buffy, they are holding a dozen sprigs of mistletoe for you to pick up and three large poinsettia's as well."

Buffy hugged the older man and thanked him. "Look! A private jet is landing...it's them. I can feel her. *Wanna feel her all over. Down girl...tonight...shit that's still hours away.*

ON THE JET

Angel dragged Faith back to the seats and asked that everyone buckle up since they were landing.

Willow sat beside Faith and whispered to her; "Faith, I really hate to say this but..."

"What's on your mind Red?"

"The airport is a public place and Petey will be with us..."

"Tell me something I don't know."

"Goddess I hate this, Faith anything more than a hug and chaste kiss on the cheek would be improper. Petey only knows that Buffy is your friend...nothing else."

Faith's eyes watered, "But Red...I wanna..."

"I know what you wanna, believe me Faith. A few more hours and then you two can be together without any interruptions." Willow hated bringing the dark girl down like that, but she knew even Faith knew she had to curb her more natural tendencies for Buffy in front of Petey.

"I know you're right Red, it's just..." Faith sighed deeply and tried to bring her more physical feelings for Buffy under control.

"Please don't hate me for bringing you down," Willow said softly.

"I don't hate ya Red, I know you're right. It's just..." Faith frowned and sighed deeply.

"You will be together later tonight and forever after that."

"Fai...thhhh ok...?" Peter saw his hero and knew she was upset about something.

Faith smiled at the young boy and signed; "Five by five little dude."

Angel leaned over and tapped Faith on the shoulder, "GD?"

"Yeah Gramps?"

"I made arrangements to buy some of your gold coins. I know you wanna go Christmas shopping later today. Will twenty-five thousand be enough?"

Faith coughed and sputtered, "Twenty-five grand? Oh yeah, I can spend that no problem...Thanks Gramps. Wanna go shopping with me later?"

"I don't hold purses," Angel said playfully scowling at the dark haired girl.

"No problem, I don't use purses."

"Faith if you are gonna be carrying that much cash, you need a purse. Pulling cash outta your pocket will attract a lot of unwanted attention."

"You worry too much Red, Slayer here remember?"

"Willow, I can arrange to buy some of your stuff to if you want me to." Angel smiled at the witch.

"I was gonna use the coins for gifts but I wouldn't mind having a few thousand to spend elsewhere." *Like the leather shop, I saw a great pants and vest set that would look great on Faith.*

"Will five thousand be enough Willow?"

"Yes and thanks Angel. Now you need to tell me what you want for Christmas."

"You've already given me so much Willow. How about a picture of all of us that I can frame?"

"I haven't given you anything Angel," Willow said in a confused voice.

"Eating real food for three days isn't nothing Willow. I can sit down and eat a meal with my friends and family. That means more to me than any materialistic gift ever could."

"Actually Angel, the young witchling pronounced one word wrong...you don't have the ability to eat 'real food' as you put it for seventy-two hours...she used the word years. So you will be eating for seventy-two years."

"WHAT?" Angel stared at the redhead.

"HUH?" Willow stared at the old woman.

"Oh Goddess, Angel are you okay with that?" Willow looked scared.

"Are you kidding Willow, that's even better. I had forgotten how good food tastes. Now I have a long time to try everything."

"Trust me Gramps...avoid Curried anything." Faith laughed, squinted and held her nose dramatically.

"How many types of chocolate are there GD? Wanna taste test with me?" Angel licked his lips and grinned.

"Enough to keep us busy for years to come Gramps. Have you tried white chocolate?"

"There's a white chocolate?" Angel's eyes were wide open.

"Oh yeah Gramps, I'll pick some up for you later today when we go shopping."

"Ummm, Faith?" Willow looked at her friend.

"Yeah Red?"

"What do you want for Christmas?"

"I have everything I could ever want now Red. I have a real family, great friends, and something I never thought I would have."

"Buffy, right?" Willow grinned.

"Actually I was thinking that I have been accepted by everyone, Buffy is of course the most important thing, but acceptance feels so good. I never had that before and I like it...like it a lot."

Angel and Willow put their hands over Faith's, "The Triad of Trouble rules," Willow said seriously.

"Okay, Faith why don't you grab Breanna's bag and Willow can hold Petey's hand. Brian and I can 'secure' the other stuff that I will come back and get after dark. I'll bring the artwork you wrapped.

The group walked off the plane and over to their waiting friends and loved ones.

Buffy squealed in delight the minute she set eyes on her Dark Slayer girlfriend. Faith saw and felt her lighter counterpart and grinned at her. She made a point to point out Petey and Breanna.

Faith hugged Buffy and kissed her chastely on the cheek, Buffy pouted into the dark hair covering the neck she was tickling with her tongue. Hearing Faith moan low in her throat made Buffy almost lose control. Willow was mumbling something too fast to be understood. Suddenly both Slayers backed off from each other, their breathing having been returned to normal. They nodded and silently thanked the redhead.

*Quick thinking there Red.*

*Smooth Willow, real smooth.*

Both Slayers smiled and introductions were made. Breanna looked deeply into Buffy's rapidly darkening green eyes, "Aye, and you're a bonny wee lass," she said before scooping Buffy into her arms and hugging tight enough that only a Slayer would still be able to breathe.

Peter tapped the young blonde on the shoulders and Buffy turned around to face him. She kneeled down and smiled at him. Peter looked at her and pronounced; "Pret....ty la....dyyy."

"Absofuckinglutely...oh shit!," Faith covered her mouth in embarrassment while everyone else coughed discreetly and looked away.

Peter looked at a Faith and tilted his head to the left. Faith realized he was wondering what he had missed. She nodded vigorously and signed; "Yes she is."

Angel spoke up, "I think Faith and I had better go rent a couple of vehicles.

Faith looked over at Angel questioning him with her eyes.

"You need one for you, Brian and Petey to get to the orphanage. I need one to bring Breanna and the presents to Buffy's house. I seem to remember that Giles prefers his little British toy car that may seat him and Buffy...barely."

Buffy laughed and said, "Angel!, he did buy a second hand Pontiac Sunfire. It's only 5 years old and is very comfortable."

"G-man put money out on an American car?" Faith giggled.

"Har, bloody, har. I can increase your training schedule any time you know?"

"At least he only threatens to make you work harder..." Buffy grumbled under her breath just loud enough to be heard by another slayer...and vampire.

"What did he threaten you with and why B?" Faith looked at Giles and growled at him.

"It wasn't my idea...," Giles visibly paled.

"B?"

"Mom gave him permission to De-Slayerize me if I didn't...calm down...but he agreed real

quick." Buffy pouted and Faith thought she looked soooo cute.

Breanna laughed out loud as did Willow and Brian who signed to the confused little boy; "Adult stuff, don't worry."

Peter looked at everyone and signed; "When I grow up...I wanna be an adult."

After handing Brian the long, brightly wrapped tubes, Angel tapped Faith on the shoulder and they went to rent the necessary vehicles.

Once everything and everyone was settled in the right vehicles they went about their business for the day.

AT THE ORPHANAGE

Faith, Brian, Willow, Peter and Angel got out of the car and walked in the main door and found the director, staff and kids waiting for them. A loud cheer was heard that made the wall shake. Faith, Petey and Willow turned beet red. Angel looked around and decided this place could use a new coat of paint and a few other things that he would see to it they got.

Petey noticed right away that his friend David wasn't in the group and signed to Willow; 'Where's David?'

Willow went over to the director and asked him about David.

"He took a header down the stairs yesterday evening and is still in the hospital. He broke his leg and we are just waiting for the call to go get him."

"Angel?," Willow looked pointedly at the souled vampire.

"Yes?"

"Would you take Faith and Petey to the hospital and pick up David?"

"Sure thing Willow, what floor and room number?"

Willow gained the information that Angel wanted and gave it to him saying; "I will stay here to play games with the other kids while you go get David."

"Okay Willow, come on GD...grab Petey and lets go get the other kid."

"Coming Gramps. Wait a minute, brb." Faith walked over to the director and started to apologize for not calling when he pulled her into a hug and thanked her for her part in the rescue of Peter.

"I had your two day paycheck cashed, the envelope is on my desk. Come see me before you leave later."

Brian watched the interaction between Faith and her boss and was pleased she wasn't in any kind of trouble. He walked over and introduced himself. "Hello, I'm Dr. Brian Liam and we need to talk about what Faith and I can do for the wee lad. Is there somewhere we can talk privately?"

"Of course Doctor, follow me." Both men headed for the Director's office.

Faith, Petey and Angel said goodbye to Willow and went to go get David. Angel motioned Willow to follow them outside.

AT THE CAR

"Willow, GD...I wanna give that place a whole makeover. Bring it up to date. Do you think Xander would be interested in doing the remodeling? I would, of course, pay him and his crew very well."

"Xander is just starting his own company and I bet he would jump at the chance to prove himself." Willow smiled, wondering why she never thought about bringing her friends to the kids before. *Faith got through to Petey, and made a great impression on everyone here, and now we are going to fix this old place up. This is so cool.* "I better get back to the rest of the kids, hurry back guys." Willow went back inside.

"Hey Gramps, we would probably have to put the kids up at a hotel while most of the work is going on. We could ask Xander to hire round the clock crews to get the work done faster. Whadda ya think?"

"I think you're a genius GD. I'll make arrangements with the best kid oriented hotel around. I'll have to ask Willow how many kids are actually here."

AT THE HOSPITAL

Faith went straight to the nurse's station and asked the whereabouts of David. The nurse looked at the leather clad young woman and raised her eyebrows, "Are you Faith Winters?"

"Yes, did the director call to tell you my friend Angel and I would be picking up David?"

"Yes, he just called. Wait here, the orderly is bringing him. Ahhh...here he is now."

Faith turned to face the child in the wheelchair. "Hi kid, I'm Faith...a friend of Petey's, and this is my…uhhh...friend Angel."

David looked up at Faith and smiled, "Peter is right, you are pretty."

Faith blushed and waved away the orderly. "I can take it from here, thank you."

Angel handed Faith David's release papers and she put them in her pocket. David tugged on Angel's coat to get his attention. When he looked down, the boy was pointing at Faith and making kissing motions. Angel shook his head.

"Don't you think she's pretty?"

"She is beautiful David, but she is also spoken for. She is a very good friend, and one can't have too many of those."

A blushing Faith coughed, and suggested they move along.

AT THE ORPHANAGE

Willow had set up several board games for the kids and was presently losing at ping-pong to Chan.

"Willow?" A pre-teen blonde girl said.

"Yes, Tiffany?"

"Is Faith really gonna work here?"

"Yes, she is. Does that bother you?"

"No, she seems cool. She dresses nice too. Do you think she would help me with makeup and stuff?"

"I'm sure she would be happy to, just ask her when she gets back."

PARKING LOT BEHIND THE ORPHANAGE

Angel pulled in and parked close to the back door. Faith released her seatbelt, Petey's and David's before climbing out of the car. She reached back in and gently hoisted David into her arms, making sure his cast was properly supported. "Angel, grab the wheelchair and bring it in please, I'll just carry David into the common room." She used her hip to close the door.

Peter saw that Faith had her hands full, so he waited for Angel and took his other hand. The group walked in the back door, through the kitchen and into the common room. Faith looked at a redheaded boy about ten years old and asked him to vacate the large comfy chair. When he moved, she set David down gently and smiled at him. Angel put the wheelchair beside the chair and stepped back. Brian, after having spoke to the director came over to talk to Faith.

"Faith, me darling...we need to talk."

"Coming Pops." She signed to Petey, 'keep an eye on David for me until I get back, okay little dude.?'

Peter nodded and grabbed some paper and a pencil. He started to draw the hangman's noose and Faith put her arm around Brian as he led her back to the director's office.

"Hello Faith, welcome back. Thank you for saving Peter. The Doctor here tells me he can do a surgery to help him and afterwards you will be able to complete what he has started. Can you show me this healing power?"

Faith looked daggers at Brian.

"I had to tell him everything Faith, otherwise when Peter gets his hearing back, he and everyone would think I alone would be responsible. I know you don't care about taking or getting credit, but your boss needs to know that you will be doing as much if not more than me to restore Peter's hearing."

Faith took a deep breath and turned to face the director. She could feel the extra power and knew he eyes were flashing silver, as was the sliver. The man's eyes just about popped outta his head. Faith powered down and took a second deep breath to calm herself. Brian smiled; his pride in her was obvious to all.

Faith spoke softly but determined, "What you just saw, needs to be kept between the three of us. Well, Willow and Angel know and I will be telling a few more friends. But I don't want it to be common knowledge."

"I understand. You have my word Miss Winters." The director held out his hand and Faith shook it.

"I appreciate it sir. Now, I need to get back to work." Faith went back to the kids. She motioned Angel over, "Can you drive Brian back to the airport please? Oh yeah, give him the tube with his name on it and tell him not to open it until tomorrow morning."

"Yes M'am," Angel saluted the dark-haired girl who growled at him playfully.

"Hey Faith, heads up." Willow tossed a ping-pong paddle at Faith. Faith caught it and laughed.

"Can you beat her Faith?" Chan asked.

"I can try, what's your name?"

"I'm Chan, I beat everyone here...but never Willow."

Faith grinned evilly at the redhead, "You're so going down Red."

"We'll see Faith," Willow grinned back at the dark girl.

Willow served...the ball hit the table in front of Faith and bounced over her shoulder. "One nothing."

"Let's see ya try that again Red."

"Okay...two nothing...three nothing...four nothing...five nothing." Willow smirked at the frustrated Slayer as she tossed the ball to her.

Faith grinned and served. The ball had so much spin on it that the minute it hit the table it veered off to the left and Willow missed it entirely. "Five to one," Faith laughed.

"Lucky shot Faith."

"Really?" Faith served again...five to two...five to three...five to four...tie game Red."

By now everyone was watching their game.

Willow served, but this time Faith managed to hop it over the net just outta reach. "Six to five Red."

When Faith returned the next serve, Willow was ready. She smashed it just right to kiss the edge of the table. "Six all."

By the time it was Faith's turn to serve again the score was eight to seven in Faith's favor. She changed the direction of her spinning serve. "Nine to seven...ten to seven."

The ball turned blue quickly and changed back, it had stopped dead on the table. Faith's mouth dropped open. "No fair Red, that's cheating!"

"Ten to eight." Willow grinned.

"Okay, so that's how it is huh? Ye haw Red." Faith, using her Slayer speed and agility returned everything the redhead threw her way.

"Twelve to eight Red and it's my serve."

Angel and Brian grinned at each other, both mumbling; "Kids."

At the end of Faith's serves the score was fourteen to eleven.

"I'm catching up Faith."

"Yeah, yeah. Serve already."

"Care to place a wager laddie," Brian asked Angel.

"Fifty on Faith to win."

"Okay, we both think she will win, how about the point spread?"

"Twenty one to twenty."

"Got ya there bucko, I don't think Willow will be able to catch up that far. Final score Faith twenty-one...Willow eighteen. Care to up the ante to one hundred dollars. Proceeds to go to these kids of course."

"Of course. You're on Brian."

The final score was Faith twenty one, Willow nineteen.

Both men just put their money in the bubble beside the door.

"Next time you won't be so lucky Faith." Willow grumbled.

"We'll see Red, we'll see." Faith chuckled.

Chan came over and asked Faith to show him how to do the spin on the serve. For the next ten minutes, she did just that. Chan had a pretty good handle on it when she was done.

Brian came over to say his goodbyes to Faith, Willow and Petey. "I'll be back here to do Peter's surgery on February tenth. The director and I have made the arrangements with the local hospital. Faith me darling, may I call you tomorrow?"

"Absolutely Pop." Faith wrote out her cell phone number, Buffy's cell and home phone as well as Giles phone number. The two hugged for a minute and then pulled back. "Let's go boyo."

OUTSIDE

Angel opened the trunk and pulled out the tube with Brian's name on it and gave him explicit instructions; don't open until tomorrow.

After dropping Brian off and the airport, Angel went to find Xander. Xander was surprised to see Angel standing at his door during the day and quickly invited him in.

"You're not smoking, that's a good thing, but how come?"

Angel explained about his gift from the PTB. Then he told Xander what he wanted from him. Xander was tickled pink, his first professional contract and it was helping the kids that Faith was working with, so he was a happy boy.

"I can start the renovations the first week in January. I will have to charge you more for two shifts."

"I know, and I will gladly pay double if you want. You just do a good job for those kids."

"You can count on me Angel. Thank Willow for suggesting me."

"I asked her if you would be interested, I didn't know you had a company then. So we both get what we want. Make sure you use top of the line everything Xander. I want those kids to have the best."

Anya had been listening in from the kitchen. "Angel, since when do you care about kids?"

"Well, Petey kind of grew on me and the rest of the kids aren't that bad. Besides, that building is barely up to code, it needs remodeling for safety reasons."

"Anya dear, don't question the nice man with the money."

"Oh...right."

BACK AT BUFFY'S HOUSE

Giles was panting; he was more tired than he ever remembered being in his whole life. He climbed down off the roof, admiring his work. Buffy was bound and determined to have everything perfect for Faith's first real Christmas.

"Buffy...please, for those of us who don't have Slayer recuperative powers...I need to sit down for a few minutes."

"Sorry Giles go inside and make yourself a drink. I can do the rest." Buffy ran around putting the rest of the decorations up. Thankfully Giles had put the one on the roof of the house. *Faith is gonna love the Rudolph leading Santa's sleigh up there.*

Mistletoe hung from every conceivable place imaginable.

Breanna was amazed at how much Buffy had accomplished in such a short time.

Buffy had a switch that Faith would press; it would turn on all the lights outside. She had a second switch to turn on the indoor lights, which she pressed immediately. The living room was flooded with colors dancing across the walls and ceiling.

"Thanks Giles, I appreciate everything you have been doing for Faith...and me."

"You haven't told me yet, what you are going to do about feeding all of us tomorrow."

Breanna listened carefully and when she heard Buffy's answer, she snorted. "I would have cooked for everyone if I had known Buffy."

"You are a guest here Breanna, and I want you to relax.

"I ordered a turkey and all the trimmings to be delivered here tomorrow at five o'clock. Giles, will you play bartender for everyone?"

"I would be happy to help out in any way. I care about all you bloody colonials."

Buffy was quiet for a few minutes and Giles began to worry. "Buffy?"

"Huh? Sorry Giles, mind wandered."

Giles knew she had something on her mind and therefore gave her time to compose herself and to speak.

"Giles? Do you think Faith will be changed somehow? I mean from gaining those healing powers?" *Will she still want to be with me?*

"She can't help but to be changed in someway Buffy. But as for her feelings for you...she loves you and I for one don't believe that will ever change." Giles suddenly found himself in a bear hug and didn't mind in the least.

"You listen to me missy...You are everything to Faith. Just because she now has healing power doesn't change her that much."

"Let's go do some last minute shopping that you don't want Faith to see." Giles grabbed his car keys and hooked his arm through Breanna's.

AT THE MALL

Buffy headed for the leather shop first. She made her purchases and had it wrapped in store. Then she left it at the pick-up counter for retrieval later.

Breanna and Giles had wandered into the bookstore. "Rupert?"

"Yes Breanna?"

"Do you think that me darling Faith would like a book on the history of Ireland. It does have several members of our family in it. But I don't want to push." Breanna flipped through some of the pictures in the book, "Bloody hell! There is a picture of me from the war years."

Giles looked at it and smiled, "Nice gams."

Breanna burst out laughing. "I bet you say that to all the long-legged woman."

Giles flipped a few pages in the book and was stunned to find a picture he thought was Faith, but knew by the period clothing it couldn't be. "Is this...?"

"That is Faith Liam, our Faith's great great-great grandmother."

"The similarities between are uncanny."

Breanna bought the book and had it wrapped. Giles and Breanna then bought several video games and a Play Station 2. Giles wanted to go to the computer shop next. He went over to the area that had different laptops. He checked each one, then decided to call Willow.

AT THE ORPHANAGE

RING RING

Willow pulled out her cell phone and answered it. "Hello?"

"Willow, I am buying Faith a laptop computer...I need to know which one is the best. Also, there are programs that can be added and I want to know which would be the best artistic program to have installed."

"Get an IBM Notebook Giles. Look for a program that includes painting, drawing and coloring techniques. Ask...never mind, find a salesman named Stephen...I'll wait."

Giles walked up to the manager, "Excuse me sir, where might I find a salesperson named Stephen?"

A young blonde man stepped forward and introduced himself, "Hello, I'm Stephen, how may I help you?"

"Do you know a young woman by the name of Willow Rosenburg?"

"Yes, Willow is a regular around here."

"Good, here." Giles handed him his phone and waited while they discussed programs. A few minutes later Stephen came back with a two disc set and handed it to Giles.

"Thank you...uh Willow knows how to...?"

"Yes sir, she can download this program anytime. Thanks for shopping here. Have a Merry Christmas."

"Thank you, same to you." The computer and programs were wrapped and added to the bag. As they walked out they ran into Buffy literally.

"Owie!" Buffy rubbed her ass as she got up off the floor.

"My word, I am sorry Buffy. Are you alright?"

"Yeah Giles, what's the rush?"

"I just thought that you might want to put the wrapped Christmas gifts under the tree at your place before we all go over to my home to wait for the birthday girl."

"I need a few more things...for her birthday."

Buffy headed into Victoria Secret and purchased the sexiest, slinkiest, tightest, fur accentuated red teddy. *Faith will love this on me...I hope.*

Once all packages had been picked up and placed in the car. Breanna, Giles and Buffy went back to Buffy's house. All the Christmas packages were placed under and around the tree. The birthday ones were unpacked at Giles house.

Buffy called Faith.

"Hello B."

"How...caller ID, of course. I just called to tell you I love you and I really miss you. When will you get to Giles place?"

"We will be leaving in a few minutes B, I just wanna make sure Petey and David are okay."

"K."

"Hey B, Red is looking kind of like the canary that swallowed the cat...do you know what she is up to?"

"Nope, but don't worry. You're friends now right?"

"Yeah B, but that doesn't mean she won't do something magical ya know. I love you and will see you soon. Bye."

"MOM!"

"Hello Joyce," Giles said.

"Hello Joyce," Breanna said. "I want some of your daughter's energy."

Joyce laughed and admitted she wouldn't have minded some of it herself.

"Nothing to do but wait for the rest of the gang to get here." Buffy was starting to get antsy again.

Chapter Fourteen

Faith hit redial and when Buffy answered she said; "B, I forgot...Gramps, Red and I are going Christmas shopping right from here for at least an hour or maybe more. Then I need to go home so I can shower and change before coming over to G Man's house. So I will probably see you around seven o'clock. I love you."

*Damn shopping, I wanna see her now!* "Okay Faith, I miss you. See you at seven...or earlier if possible."

*Not sure I can wait that long.* "See you soon B. Bye."

Faith hung up and took a deep breath to try to calm her now raging libido.

Willow smiled into her hand, she knew how Faith was feeling and quietly used the spell to calm her down...again.

Faith breathed easier. "Thanks Red."

"No problem Faith. Let's say goodbye to the kids and go shopping."

"Ummm, Red?"

"Yeah Faith?"

"After we finish shopping will you come back to B's place...I uhhhh...can you put a silence spell thingee on both of our rooms?" Faith blushed deep red thinking about what she and her gorgeous girlfriend would be doing later. *I sure as fuck don't want Gran hearing us. It's not like I'm the quiet type...god, I hope B is a screamer too.*

The smiling redhead nodded, "Good idea Faith. I don't think Breanna needs to hear everything. Once was enough." Willow giggled and Faith blushed again. *Damn body...stop blushing...pleaseeeee.*

*Definitely time to change the subject.* Willow cleared her throat and said, "Have you decided what you want to get for Buffy?"

"Everything!" Faith's face lit up like a hungry child looking in a bakery window.

"What everything?" Angel sauntered over to his friends.

"That's what she wants to buy for Buffy...of course." Willow grinned.

"Of course." Angel grinned back. "Oh Willow?"

"Yes Angel?"

"I talked to Xander and he will begin remodeling this place in the New Year. So I need to know how many people will need to be put up in the hotel."

"Well there are seventeen kids, two counselors and the director."

"Okay, I'll make the arrangements next week to house them all. If we don't get shopping soon...GD may jump outta her skin."

"Right Gramps, like you aren't as excited as me."

Angel just shrugged his shoulders and started whistling.

"Uh guys, I'll be right back." Faith went to speak to the director.

"Excuse me...sir?"

"Yes Faith?"

"If I buy stuff for the kids here...what time would I have to drop the stuff off at?"

"Buy? Stuff?" The Director looked at Faith questioningly.

"You know...toys, books, video games...it's Christmas."

"Not later than ten o'clock tonight please." The Director cleared his throat and was trying to decide whether or not to ask for a few things.

Faith recognized the look. "Make a list bossman, and I will do my best to get everything on it."

"Did you win the lottery or something?"

"Something...actually, I was given part of a treasure and my portion is about five million dollars. Oh while I remember, Angel is gonna cover all costs to remodel this place and bring it up to standards and more. He will put everyone up at a hotel while the renovations are going on."

The Directors mouth dropped to the floor. Faith grinned. "I promise you sir, my friends and I are serious about helping out around here...that is if you will let us?"

"Absolutely Faith. They...and I appreciate whatever you do here."

"Okay, we'll be back later to drop off presents. I need a basic list of the kids ages and how many are girls and boys so we can get cool gifts for them."

The Director quickly wrote a list of the kids in his care including their age, sex and interests and handed it to Faith.

"Thanks, hey! You didn't put what you and the others who work here might want."

"I wanted this place to be fixed up better for the kids...you have already arranged to do that. Anthony could use a brake job on his car and the other young woman here is getting married next month and leaving. So I would assume the normal household stuff would be appreciated by her."

"K, laterz bossman."

Faith went back to the common room to say goodbye to Petey, David and the rest of the kids.

"Faith? I know you're in a hurry but do you think...maybe..." the young blonde girl shook her head nd started to walk away, "...never mind."

"What?" Faith smiled at her and gave the shy young girl her full attention.

Willow came over and whispered in Faith's ear; "She wants you to help her with makeup. She kind of likes Allan and wants to make a good impression. Her name is Tiffany. She's fourteen...so don't go nuts."

Faith raised one eyebrow and smiled; "You and Angel go to the mall and get started on this list. I'll grab a cab when I finish here and meet you there."

"Come on Tiffany, let's go to your room and see just what kind of war paint you have."

"War paint?" The young girl laughed and led Faith to her room.

Willow and Angel walked out the front door laughing together about 'Santa Faith'.

IN THE CAR

"You know she will spend the twenty-five thousand in minutes." Willow grinned; she knew Angel was well aware of that fact.

"Of course, that's why I have this to give her later."

"What's that?"

"One of my credit cards...I put GD on the account so she could go nuts today and Boxing Day. I don't think even Faith could spend a quarter of a million dollars."

"Wanna bet?" Willow smarted off and ducked quickly as Angel half-heartedly tried to swat her.

Angel's eyes flew open. Okayyyyyyyy...I know better than to bet against you."

Willow realized they were just outside the airport. "Angel?"

"Faith didn't get much sleep last night, was up early watching the sun rise with me, has been running around all day, has to go shopping and then her surprise birthday party. I figure she will need her sword to recharge before going to Giles'."

"Good thinking Angel. Don't get caught."

Angel just looked at the witch, "I'll be right back."

*Way to go Willow, questioning Angel...stupid, stupid, stupid.*

Angel put the box with Faith's sword in the back seat and got in the front.

"That was fast Angel." Willow shook her head. "We should get shopping before Faith shows up and wonders what we have been up to.

AT THE MALL

Angel looked at the list supplied by the Director and Faith. "Willow I think you should get all the computer stuff while I go grab the music CD's, DVD's and video's."

Willow copied the part of the list she needed and told Angel she would meet him at the Second Cup in thirty minutes.

IN TIFFANY'S ROOM

"Okay Tif, let's seen what you have." Faith went over to the dresser and brought back a light blue eye shadow, mascara and a hot pink lipstick. "Sit down and lemme at ya."

Tiffany raised both eyebrows and then just closed her eyes to let Faith do her magic.

Faith put a light coating of the blue eye shadow on Tiffany and then used the mascara. Next she put the lipstick on the young girl's top lip and asked her rub her lips together. Faith grabbed liquid black eyeliner and added a thin line next to the lashes.

"Ta Da! What do ya think Tif?"

Tiffany opened her eyes and looked in the mirror. "WOW! I'm almost a pretty as you."

Faith blushed and looked away. "So tell me about this Allan. I bet he's the tall blonde surfer dude...right?"

Tiffany nodded, "He's so cool."

"Nice ass too," Faith added.

Both girls laughed, Faith remembered her first crush. *The only time I was ever shot down.*

"Ummm...Faith?"

"Yes?"

"What do I say to him...to get him to like me I mean."

"Well, walk up to him right into his personal space. Put your arms around his waist, putting your hands in his back pockets. Then whisper in his ear..."Wanna dance handsome?"

"I've never seen him dance."

"Maybe he is waiting for YOU to ask him."

Tiffany hugged the older dark haired woman. "Thanks Faith, you're the best. Are you gonna work here a lot?"

"Well, for now I'm a part time counselor...but who knows what the future will bring? Now, show me your clothes and let's pick 'a to die for' outfit for ya."

Tiffany opened her closet and sat on the bed waiting for Faith to pick something. Faith pulled out a powder blue pair of stretchy jeans and fluffy white turtleneck sweater.

DOWNSTAIRS

Allan comes over to Anthony. "Hey Al what's up?"

"Do you think Tiffany likes me?" The boy kicked imaginary dirt at his feet.

"Ask her to dance later tonight and find out."

"What should I wear?"

"Uhhh, I'm a fashion disaster waiting to happen Al. Lemme go ask Faith to help you."

"She's the hot brunette that works here now...right?"

"That's her. Word to the wise Al, she's way outta your league."

"No kidding, but I bet she knows what kind of clothes will impress Tiffany. Please go ask her to help me."

Anthony went upstairs and knocked on Tiffany's door. Faith answered and stepped outside closing the door as she did.

"Hey T-Man what's the what?"

"We have a budding romance here."

"Yeah, Tif and Al...I know." Faith smiled.

"Well he wants your expertise on what to wear. He wants to make a good impression on Tiffany at the dance tonight."

"Where is his room?"

"The older boys are in the other wing. Are you finished with Tiffany?"

"Gimme a few more minutes."

"K."

Faith went back in and made sure Tiffany had everything she needed. "Relax Tif, you're beautiful and if Al doesn't see that...then he is certifiable. Now you saw how I put on the makeup right?"

"Yes Faith, I hope I can do a good job like you did."

"You will do fine Tif...I know it."

"Angel is lucky to have a girlfriend like you."

"Tif, Angel isn't my boyfriend. He's family. It's complicated."

"Oh...okay. What is your boyfriend's name?"

"I uh...don't have a boyfriend."

"How come? You're pretty and funny and..."

Faith thought for a moment. *Should I tell her?*

Tiffany didn't miss Faith zoning out for a minute.

*Maybe Faith likes girls.* Faith, do you have a girlfriend?"

Faith nodded, "Yes...does that bother you?"

"No...she's lucky to have you."

"Works both ways Tif. I love B and she loves me."

"B?"

"Her name is Buffy."

"Willow's friend?"

"Yes, that's her." Faith grinned like a loon.

"She better treat you good." Tiffany stated.

"She does." *Better than I deserve.*

TIFFANY? IT'S YOUR TURN TO DRY THE DISHES.

"I better go, when will you be back?"

"I'll be here Monday at noon. We can talk then..k?"

"Thanks Faith."

"You're welcome Tif. Now scoot."

Faith came out of Tiffany's room and Anthony led her to the other wing and over to Allan's room.

KNOCK KNOCK

Allan almost ripped the door off the hinges opening it.

"FAITH! You gotta help me."

"Chill dude. Can I look in your closet?"

"Yeah, of course. Do you think Tiffany will dance with me?"

Faith could feel the nervous waves of energy coming off the young man.

"I don't see why not. Now, how about these acid washed light blue jeans and this silver silk shirt?"

"Thank you. We finally got someone cool working here."

"HEY!" Anthony pouted.

"AW crap...I didn't mean...I mean...Faith is..."

"Language Allan, but I know what you mean. We are lucky to have her here."

"Sorry guys, but I have to get going. Trust me Al, you and Tif will be fine. Have fun and I'll be back on Monday."

Faith went to the wing that housed the younger boys. She tapped on Petey's door before walking in.

"Fa...ith." Peter came running over to his hero.

'Hi ya little dude,' Faith signed.

Peter grabbed a package that he had obviously wrapped himself and handed it to Faith.

"Christ....mas."

Faith smiled and signed; 'I will be dropping off gifts later tonight for you and everyone here.' Peter pulled three other packages out from under his bed. 'Wil...low, An...gel, Bre...anna.' Faith tried in vain to hold back the happy tears. No one had ever truly wanted her around till now. *First B and the Scoobies and now a really great kid. I wish he were mine and B's.* Petery noticed the tears right away and hugged his hero. "Fai...th okayyyy?"

"Yeah Petey, just happy." Faith signed. 'What say we go check on David?"

Faith felt a little hand slip into hers and they went down the hall to David's room.

KNOCK KNOCK

"David, it's Faith and Petey...can we come in?"

"Yes." David shouted.

Faith walked in and was surprised at the mess of clothes that had been flung everywhere.

"Whoa! Tornado warning in effect huh?" Faith laughed.

"I was looking for something," the boy blushed and was obviously hiding something behind his back.

"Did ya find it?" Faith started refolding clothes and hanging others up.

David shyly handed Faith a bookmark.

Faith read it and signed the words to Petey:

'A woman must do TWICE as much as a man to be considered HALF as good.....Fortunately it isn't difficult.' Faith burst out laughing and hugged David.

"This great and there is a lot of truth in it too, thank you David."

David handed Faith a black marker and pointed to his cast, "Would you?" Faith took it and signed it; "Hi David make the most of the getting away with things you wouldn't normally...Love Faith."

When David read that he grinned.

"Okay guys, I really gotta go. I have a lot of last minute shopping to do. Don't worry...there will be presents for everyone here."

"Not just Peter?" David asked with a surprised look on his face.

"Everyone. You have my word." Faith grinned and handed David a deck of cards and pushed Petey over to the bed. "Play nice guys."

Faith rushed down the stairs and got turned around. She asked a young boy how to get back to the common room. Once there, the dark haired beauty made her farewells and called a cab.

AT THE MALL (SECOND CUP)

Willow walked over and joined Angel at a table in the corner. He handed her a bucket sized hot chocolate with a mountain of whip cream on it. Willow laughed and seconds later had a matching creamy moustache.

"I got everything on my list...did you Willow?" Angel pointed to three large bulging bags.

"Yes and they are being wrapped as we speak."

"By who?"

"Over there, a service desk...one of many Angel. Different price for each size and choice of paper. Go ahead and take your bags over...I'll just wait here and drink my hot chocolate."

"Okay." Angel grabbed his bags and headed over to the wrapping counter. He pulled out his credit card and tried to hand it to the young girl.

"Oh no Sir. You have to write out the tags and attach them to each gift so no one gets confused. On the top line write your name...we tear that off. The bottom part, with the recipients name will be added after wrapping."

Angel quickly wrote out all the tags and attached them. The young girl's eyes flew open at the amount of gifts to be wrapped. She looked at Angel questioningly.

"They're for the kids at the Orphanage." Angel explained.

"Oh, are you with the redhead that was here maybe twenty minutes ago?"

"Yes, that was Willow. How long will it take to wrap these?"

"Come back in a half hour...or on your way out. Here's your pick-up tags. Do you want ribbons and bows as well?"

"Absolutely. The best of everything. What do I owe you?"

"Let's see, twenty video's and twenty CD's...forty small packages comes out to eighty dollars and our sponsor picks up the tab for the taxes."

Angel handed over three fifties. "Keep the change. I'll be back to collect them...later." Angel walked back to Willow and sat down. "Do you think your tired body can make it over to the McDonald's? I really want to try a Big Mac...fries...and a chocolate milkshake...mmmmm."

Angel licked his lips in anticipation.

Willow laughed out loud, "Come on you poor starved, underpaid fetch person...my treat."

*Fetch person?* Angel, decided that discretion was the better part of valor...that is if he wanted to eat. He was unaware that most fast food places took plastic. He followed the amused witch and got just what he wanted. "MPHHH Thanks Willow," Angel said around a mouthful of layered burger.

"Enjoy," Willow said as she dunked a Chicken McNugget into the BBQ sauce.

"What's that?" Angel asked pointing at the sauce? Angel dipped the last bite of his burger into it and ate it. "MMM, not bad."

"That's just one of many sauces Angel. I'm sure Faith will help you try everything on the menu...in time."

"Private party? Or can anyone join?" Faith laughed as she set down her tray. On it laid a McRib, a 1/4 pounder with cheese, a Big Extra, a Big Mac, extra large fries, three boxes of chocolate chip cookies and a chocolate shake. "Be right back." Faith grabbed the Big Mac and the 1/4 pounder and walked over to a young man and small child that were sharing a large fries. She set down the burgers, smiled and walked away.

Willow and Angel grinned at her.

"Faith that meal will still spoil your dinner." Willow looked to Angel for help and saw that none was forthcoming.

"What meal Red? This is just snack. Besides I got cookies for both of you." She put a box on each tray.

"Oh that makes it so much better," Willow said sarcastically while sticking her tongue out at the dark Slayer.

Without even looking, Faith swatted Angel's hand that was creeping towards her fries. "Now Red, I'm just a growing girl ya know?" Faith went back up to the counter and returned with an extra large fries and a McRib. She handed them to Angel, "There now Gramps...hands off my food."

"Yeah Angel, you should know the magic rules in dealing with Faith."

Both Angel and Faith looked over at the redhead, waiting for an explanation.

"Don't get between her and Buffy and don't touch her food."

"Works for me," Faith said around the last bit of her burger.

"Got it," Angel grinned and handed Faith a fry.

RING RING

Faith answered her cell phone. "Hello B, what's up?"

"How did you know it was me?"

"Who else would call me? I'm with Red and Gramps and Gran doesn't know my number."

"Yeah well, I'm here at the mall too...with Giles and Breanna. Where exactly are you guys?"

"We're at the McDonalds, if ya hurry you can have my cookies."

"Only your cookies Faith?" Buffy said in a very seductive voice.

Faith almost choked on her McRib. Willow took the phone out of Faith's hand. "Hi Buffy, I think you short-circuited something in her...again." Willow laughed and ducked as Faith swung at her arm playfully.

Breanna, Giles and Buffy walked into the McDonalds and over to their friends. Giles handed Faith a bag from the leather shop. Faith grinned like a little kid. "Can I look now G-Man...please?"

"Of course Faith." Giles smiled as the Dark Slayer opened the bag and pulled out a black pair of leather pants...size 6.

"I keep my word Faith, they are not a birthday or Christmas gift." Giles was eyeballing Faith's cookies so she gave him one. Giles made a face, then chewed the cookie and smiled. "I say these are acceptable."

"WOW Faith, coming from Giles...that's high praise."

Faith rushed back to the counter and bought six boxes of chocolate chip cookies and brought them back. "Here ya go G-Man, a couple of days supply...enjoy." Then she grabbed the pants and ran into the washroom to try them on. Just as she was pulling off her old pants, she felt Buffy's presence.

"B."

"Faith."

Faith hauled Buffy into the stall and locked it. Their kiss would have melted titanium.

"God B, you need to stop cause I can't."

"Don't wanna...yet."

Ignoring the ding that signified they were no longer alone, the girls were moaning into each other's mouths.

Someone started pounding on the door.

*Fucking killjoy...get your own hottie.* Faith stepped back from B.

*Damn.* Buffy whimpered at the loss of contact with Faith's oh so sexy lips.

"Come on you two, I can't keep the shield up across the door forever," a highly amused Willow said.

Faith quickly slipped her new pants on and stepped out with Buffy in tow. Both girls were scowling at the witch. "A few more minutes wouldn't have hurt Red," Faith growled.

"Yeah right Faith...a few more minutes and you two would have been all over each other and...."

Both Slayers grinned, and then blushed. Faith cracked; "I'm gonna buy you a blow up doll Red."

Willow's bottom lip dropped to the floor in astonishment. "FAITH!"

"Good one Faith," Buffy laughed and they held hands. Faith reached back and grabbed her old pants and shoved them into the bag. "Okay Red, make with mojo, we're ready."

Willow waved her hands and opened the door. Several young teenage girls rushed in and slammed the stall doors. They went back to the table where their friends, who had silly-assed grins on their faces, were waiting.

"Thanks G-Man, they're perfect. So are we all gonna just sit here like bumps on vamp face or...shop til we drop some more?"

"Faith me darling, I do wish you could share that boundless energy you seem to have."

"Hey, Gramps? If I put some of my energy in the sword and handed it to Gran...would she be able to use some of my energy?"

"I don't know GD. But I do have the sword in the trunk of my car. Let's go find out."

"Hang on a minute, I need to ask Willow something.

*She used my name...it must be important.* Willow looked at Faith.

Faith took her over to an unoccupied bench and whispered to her what she wanted. The redhead's eyes flew open. "Don't worry Red, I wasn't planning on giving it her tomorrow. I thought, maybe New Year's Eve. So will you find out what she likes for me?"

"Of course Faith. Good luck with the sword and Breanna. Buffy will probably be picking my brain for something special for you too. We shouldn't be to hard to find considering you got that Slayer connection thingee going on."

"K, thanks Red."

Faith motioned for Angel and Breanna to come over. The three of them headed out to the parking lot. Angel opened the trunk; Faith opened the box that held the sword. She held it for a minute and moved so that Breanna could hold it. Both Angel and Faith stood closer to Breanna in case the energy was too much for her. Breanna reached out tentatively towards the sword. When she grasped the handle, she felt a wave of energy pass through her that left her eyeballs spinning. She dropped the sword back into the case and smiled at the two worried members of her family.

"Are you okay Gran?" Faith asked anxiously

"Better than fine dearheart. I haven't felt this good in decades." Breanna stretched and didn't hear the usual popping sounds.

"Hot Damn! It worked," an excited Faith said.

"Oh GD?"

"Yeah Gramps?"

"Here, it has a quarter of a million on it...enjoy." Angel handed Faith the credit card.

"I believe we have more shopping to do." Breanna linked arms with both the Slayer and Vampire and headed back into the mall.

ON THE SECOND FLOOR OF THE MALL

Willow steered Buffy to the Jewelry store and asked her if there was anything she really wanted in there.

Buffy immediately went to the display of diamond bracelets and rings. *Wishful thinking.*

Willow saw her friends gaze linger on one ring in particular. The main stone was a heart-shaped diamond at least 2-3 carats and that was surrounded by rubies. Willow whispered a few quick words as Buffy walked around the corner.

The owner of the store shook his head, and then for some unknown reason, he pulled the ring Buffy had been looking at and placed in the reserved box with a tag: Faith.

Willow smiled and rejoined Buffy. Breanna came over to the girls and took Buffy by the hand, "Come with me young lady."

Breanna knew what Faith had wanted, so she gave the dark slayer and redheaded witch time to talk.

As soon as Breanna walked Buffy over to the leather shop, Willow told Faith to go over to the reserved window. "I kind of made the manager put the ring Buffy was drooling over, away for you. I hope you don't mind?"

"Not at all, she really liked it? What does it look like?" Faith asked excitedly.

A gentleman came over and asked; "How may I be of assistance ladies?"

"There is a package here under the name Faith. She's Faith." Willow pointed to her friend.

"Ah, yes. He pulled out the box and opened it, a lovely choice."

Faith got her first look at the ring and grinned, "It's perfect." She handed over the credit card Angel gave her. Once the transaction was completed, Faith put the ring in the inside pocket of her leather duster. "Okay Red, back to our regular non-scheduled shop till we drop."

"Faith! Haven't you bought enough stuff? How are we gonna get everything in the car?" Willow knew that stopping a shopping happy slayer was next to impossible.

"No problem Red, I can rent a van." Faith's mind had jumped to the next store she wanted to go to. Willow could only try to keep the excited slayer in eyesight. *Note to self...no more sugar for Faith.*

Faith went into the Laura Secord shop. She pointed to several intricately carved chocolate animals. She really liked the tiger made of white chocolate with dark chocolate strips. She bought several of those. When she was finished, she had at least five pounds of different chocolates for Angel to try.

Willow was waiting outside the shop and grinned when she saw all that Faith had bought. "You keep that up Faith and Angel will turn into a Butterball."

Faith snickered into her hand; "Naw Red he won't...cause he works out...a lot. Besides...it Christmas!" Faith was back to being the hyped up two year on a sugar rush.

"Okay Faith...fair is fair. You need to tell me what to tell Buffy to get you."

"Her...in her birthday suit." *Oh shit!* "I mean...uhhhh." *Please don't let me be blushing again...pleeeeease.*

"You're so cute when you blush Faith," Willow giggled and quickly stepped back out of immediate reach. She felt a none to gentle tap on the shoulder..."Hitting on my girlfriend Wil?"

"Buffy!" *Oh god, she's gonna kill me.* "No, hitting...no uhh...Faith, help me out here."

As Faith was too busy laughing, she couldn't respond to Willow's plea for help right away.

"Relax...hehehe…B. Red didn't mean anything by it...right Red?"

"Right. Rule number one: Don't come between Faith and Buffy."

Angel tapped Faith on the shoulder and was almost decked. "Damn it Gramps...I'm gonna..."

"Yeah, yeah...you're gonna what GD?" Angel held out a set of keys to confuse the young slayer.

Faith was crossed between giving a patented smart-ass answer and wanting to know what the keys were for. She mouthed "Later" and grabbed the keys.

"All the stuff that is going back to the Orphanage has been put in a secure cube van. Pointing to Willow, Faith and himself Angel said, "It will take the three of us to get all that stuff in and around the tree."

"But I wanna shop more…buy more..." Faith complained.

"Faith dearheart, I have two words for you."

"GRAN!!!!!" Faith's mouth dropped open.

"Not those," Breanna smirked at Faith, "Boxing Day."

"HUH?"

"Everything in stores is on sale...everything," Breanna explained.

Faith's eyes widened and she smiled. She felt Buffy's hand slip into hers and she squeezed back. "Okay, you three go make your delivery while the rest of us get ready and go over to Giles.

"Hey G-Man, I never thought you were the Christmas party type ya know?"

"I assure you Faith, I am as jolly as the next man. I think you just might be surprised concerning tonight's activities."

Buffy looked daggers at her watcher and he went silent.

Faith didn't miss the looks passing between her girlfriend and watcher. *They're up to something.* "Come on Red...Gramps, the sooner we drop of the goodies for the kids, the sooner we get goodies from 'Santa Peeper'."

Giles opened his mouth to complain about the newest nickname when he decided that discretion was the better part of valor. He cleared his throat and replied, "Uhh, yes, well we have things to do. See you all soon."

"B, can you take Gran home? I'll see you there or at Giles as soon as I finish putting this stuff where it goes and then take a quick shower and get changed." Faith didn't know how Buffy would react to being kissed in the middle of the mall, but decided 'what the hell'. She pulled her blonde counterpart into her arms and kissed with all the love in her heart.

As it turned out...Buffy didn't mind at all. Everyone else started walking towards the parking lot. The Slayers caught up to them several minutes later.

The 'Triad of Trouble' arrived at the Orphanage at eight o'clock. They strong-armed the larger boys to help bring everything in. With so many willing helpers, it only took a half hour to put everything around the tree in the common room.

Faith loved the look on all the kid's faces. The Oooo's and Ahhh's made her smile.

Angel and Willow loved the look on Faith's face.

Peter, David, Allan and Tiffany ran over to hug their benefactors.

The rest of the kids broke out into a loud cheer. The director came running out of his office, "What's going on here? Oh Faith, you're..." When he saw the mountain of gifts in the room, he was speechless. "My God...did you leave anything for anyone to buy?"

"Yes...but only cause they made me," Faith pouted and pointed to her friends.

"Faith you don't have to go nuts, these kids love you for yourself."

"Hmmmm, then since you love me for myself...I guess you don't want the L.S bag."

"L.S.?"

"Laura Secord...as in the best chocolate stuff in the world." She smirked as she watched Angel's face light up and then grinned as his normal broody face came back.

HAPPY HO HO Y'ALL!, Now gimme my chocolate."

Chapter Fifteen

Faith reached into the bag and pulled out one of the white chocolate tigers and handed it to Angel.

Angel quickly unwrapped it and bit into the front right paw. "Thanks GD, this is great...want a bite?" Angel held it out and Faith bit off the other front paw. "It IS good, guess I should have bought a lot more."

Angel broke off both back paws and handed one to Willow and one to Petey, who had snuck up behind his new friends. Faith ran back outside and brought back two large bags with a fancy Boutique name on it. She motioned for Tiffany and Allan to come and get them. The excited teens wasted no time in digging into the bags they were handed.

Allan pulled out a pair of black suede pants, and matching jacket. Underneath was a light blue silk shirt. He found a small card that said: "For you next date with Tiffany. Love Faith."

Tiffany pulled out a pale pink silk dress. It had spaghetti straps and was somewhat low cut. She found the identical card that Allan had. Both teens hugged Faith and couldn't thank her enough.

The rest of the kids hadn't looked away from the mountain of presents...yet. But with a gentle reminder from the Director, they all turned to Faith, Willow and Angel.

A great roar of thanks almost deafened the surprised slayer, witch and vampire.

The Director motioned to Angel to follow him. Once in his office, he looked at Angel and decided to come right out and ask: "Why are you so willing to help these kids?"

Angel looked thoughtful for a moment before answering. "Because I can, and it means a lot to my friends."

"Did Miss Winters talk you into doing this?"

"No, she didn't. I made that decision the minute I came here. Be honest with me...this place does need to be fixed up and these kids deserve better. I know the city doesn't give a damn one way or the other, so let me do it."

"I have no intention of stopping you, I assure you. I just needed to know this wasn't some prank or that you were doing it under duress."

"Another friend of ours, Xander Harris, has the contract to fix this place up. I know that the kids and workers will need a place to stay while the work is going on, so contact this man..." Angel handed the business card of the hotel manager down the street. "He will reserve the top two floors for everyone on a lease that has been prepaid for thirty days with an option for thirty more."

"You seem to have covered everything Angel. Is there anything I can do to help?"

"Tell me what sporting equipment these kids need, who needs college funds and anything else they need. I assure you that my friends and I will do it. You could tell me your name though."

"My name is Gabriel Murphy and the kids could use baseball and football equipment next year. As for college funds, let me get back to you on that. Now unless I'm mistaken you and your friends have a surprise party to get to."

Angel blinked, "How...?"

"Miss Winters records indicate that today is her birthday as well as Peter's. I just thought that her friends might have set something up for her...am I wrong?"

"No, we do have to get Faith to her surprise party after we all go get changed. I know Faith will be back on Monday and she can reach the rest of us if you or the kids here need anything."

"I do need you to give this to Miss Winters." He handed Angel a manila envelope.

Angel took it and gave a questioning look.

"That is a contract for a full-time councilor. One of ours will be leaving at the end of January and I thought Faith would be the perfect person to bring in. Do you think she will sign it?"

"Absolutely. You just made her day. All she wants to do is help these kids. Hell, she would do it for free if you asked. She is rather well off now." Angel chuckled to himself.

"No, she will be paid the going rate and work forty hours per week starting February 1."

"I think you should give it to her before we leave." Angel handed the envelope back, "I'll go get her."

When Angel came back, he had Faith in tow.

"Hey bossman, what's up?"

The Director smiled and handed Faith the envelope. She opened it, read the contract and signed it immediately. "Looks like ya got me...I hope I don't disappoint you."

"I don't believe you will Miss Winters, now I believe you have something to do this evening."

"K, thanks."

"Oh there was one more thing..."

Faith turned around and faced him, "What?"

"Happy Birthday," he handed her a white envelope this time. Faith opened it and found a simple birthday card...that had been signed by everyone. It brought tears to the dark slayer's eyes. "Thank you," she whispered.

As the 'Triad of Trouble' were headed out towards their vehicles, Angel said, "I'll take this van back and meet you all at Giles place."

"Okay Gramps." Faith walked towards the car she still had."

Angel pulled Willow aside, "Buffy asked me to ask you to somehow hide all the Mistletoe she hung around the house...and to put a silence.." Angel was cut off by Willow's laughter.

"Faith already asked me to do the silence spell, but I will make sure she doesn't see the kissy stuff. See you at Giles'."

"Make sure she uses the sword to recharge before you leave. I put it in her trunk."

"I will Angel, see you soon." The redhead walked towards Faith's car and got in.

Willow looked at the dark haired girl and grinned.

"What?" Faith tilted her head and waited for Willow to answer.

"So this is what you look like when you're happy...gotta tell ya Faith...I like it."

"For the longest time Red, I thought I would never be happy...thought that I didn't deserve to be. Now...WOW! I have the love of my life, friends and a real family. Do you have any idea how much all of this means to me?"

"Joyce! Is B okay?"

Willow giggled into her hand and Joyce smiled at the flustered Slayer.

<Faith, I need to borrow Breanna early tomorrow morning. Would that be okay with you?>

"Of course Joyce, she likes you...likes you a lot."

Faith blushed and cleared her throat.

When Faith pulled up in front of Buffy's house, Willow mumbled a few words before letting Faith get out. Faith saw the lights and the Santa on the roof. "WOW! B went all out. Look Red, the lights, aren't they cool? Wait a minute, whatcha mumbling now? What was that for Red, I am reasonably calm...for now."

Willow knew better than to lie. Buffy asked me to hide a few things from you until later."

"More surprises? Hot damn, this day just keeps getting better and better." Faith looked at her borrowed key for a minute and then put it in the lock while juggling a few large bags full of presents.

Willow watched Faith carefully; she needed to be sure that Faith didn't see all the mistletoe.

After placing all the presents under the large beautifully decorated tree, Faith grabbed the witch's hand and they headed upstairs to Faith's room.

Faith put the one bag she kept with her, on the bed.

"What's in that bag Faith?" Willow pointed to it.

"The red leather pants from Angel, and the black sweater from Gran. I was gonna wear them for tonight. I also wanna wear the cross from you. It's in the bottom of the bag. Gimme a few minutes to take a quick shower. Oops, I almost forgot," Faith ran back downstairs and when she got back, she handed Willow a bag. "You can use B's room to shower and change. Meet me downstairs...okay?"

"Okay." Willow opened the bag and found a dark green pair of suede pants with matching jacket and yellow satin French cuff shirt. "Faith! These are beautiful...thank you."

30 MINUTES LATER

Faith came downstairs and saw Willow on the couch. "Damn girl, we look hot...don't we?"

"Well you always do Faith," the redhead blushed and added, "and thanks to you, so do I."

"Them poor mortals and non mortals alike won't know what hit em. Let's go, I wanna...see B."

"Only see?" willow laughed when Faith's eyebrows flew up.

The girls quickly raced to the car and then Willow remembered Angel's request. "Faith, use the sword to recharge so you can enjoy the whole night."

"K, open the trunk."

Faith lovingly caressed her sword, letting the energy flow through her and then replaced it.

While Faith was doing that, Willow called Giles', she let it ring twice and hung up.

AT GILES'

Buffy squealed, "That's the signal. She, I mean they are on their way here now. Everybody hide."

Giles dimmed the lights after everyone had hidden.

Willow pulled up in front of Giles place. Faith grabbed one of the bags still in the back seat.

"Red, the other bag is yours, so don't forget it when you leave."

"Faith, you didn't have to go nuts for me."

"Wanted too. Now move your ass, B is in there."

Willow opened the door and shoved Faith in first.

"Hey G-Man, forget to pay your electricity bill or what?"

People can out from everywhere as the lights came on.

SURPRISE FAITH...HAPPY BIRTHDAY

Wesley went flying into the wall when Faith kicked out.

UMMPHHH "OW Bloody Hell!"

"Damn it Wes, you should know better than to startle a Slayer. Are you okay?"

Wesley flinched, "No I'm not bloody well alright, you broke my collarbone."

Faith undid the top two buttons of Wes's shirt. Her eyes went silver, allowing her to see the break in the bone. Wes, upon seeing her eyes change, tried to back away. But seeing as he was already against the wall, didn't get far.

"Relax Wesley, Faith is going to heal you. Trust me, trust her."

"Wes, you have broken this bone several times before, that's why is weakened and breaks easily. Gimme a few minutes." Faith gently put her hand across the collarbone. Wes felt a warmth and the pain diminished quickly. "I strengthened the bone as best I could. How does it feel now?"

Wesley gingerly moved his arm and smiled. "That was amazing Faith, but now would be a good time to explain how you did that."

"Explanations later...kiss now," Buffy said as she pulled her girlfriend into her arms. Everyone else discreetly turned away allowing the Slayers a bit of privacy.

"MMMMMMMM, god B, I wanted to do all day."

"MMHMM, me too."

"You did this all for me B?"

"Well everyone here helped Faith. It's not every day someone turns twenty-one."

Everyone started singing the birthday song and when done, Faith was blushing and smiling.

KNOCK KNOCK

"That must be Gramps, I'll get it." Faith rushed to the door and let the souled vampire in. Following behind him was Spike.

"Happy birthday luv," Spike handed Faith a rectangular box that was two feet by one and half feet.

Faith grinned and opened the box. Inside she saw a matching set of short swords. The blonde vamp had arranged to have Faith's name engraved so that it was part of the design on the handles.

"Spike, these are fantastic. Thank you." She leaned over and kissed the vamp on the cheek. She heard Buffy growl under her breath and quickly went over to her and gave her a kiss on the lips that would have melted titanium.

Spike noticed the gold signet ring and whistled. "You're actually related to this here Poof?"

"Yes Spike, so if you ever insult Gramps again, you will be sorry."

Spikes eyes flew open when he saw Breanna.

"Bloody hell...Bre is that you?"

"Yes William, it is."

Spike grabbed the older woman and hugged her while swinging her around.

Faith, Angel, and everyone else just stared at the two.

"William here, saved me from a warlock when I was a wee lass. Willow dear, would you do me a favor?"

"Name it Breanna."

"Would you do the same spell you did for Angel?"

"Spell? Hey now Bre, not a big fan of magic ya know."

"Would ye like to enjoy Christmas dinner with everyone tomorrow?"

"Like to yes, but that's not possible. Vamps can't eat real food."

"Wanna bet Spiky?" Willow said a spell and then told him that he could eat real food for the same length of time that Angel could.

"And how long would that be?"

"Seventy-two years."

"Is she serious Poof?"

"Yes, and stop calling me Poof or I'll sic GD on you."

At the mention of her name, Faith came over and gave Spike a look. "Now Spike, this is the holiday season, so don't make me bust your chops or anything else...understand?"

"Okay, can I have a chocolate chip cookie? They smell good."

"Help yourself Spike," Giles said handing him the plate.

Spike bit into the cookie and smiled. "MMMMM, I love chocolate."

"Chocolate lovers unite...just wait till Easter guys." Faith grinned at them.

Spike grabbed another cookie and gave it to Willow. "Try these, they are good. Thanks for the spell Willow."

Willow ate the offered cookie, "You're welcome Spike."

Buffy and Faith had gravitated to the couch and were staring into each others eyes and sighing deeply. The hands were linked and they were in their own little world...until Joyce spoke.

"More presents?" Faith once again turned into a little kid on a sugar rush.

Giles handed Faith his present first. She ripped open the paper and box. "WOW!!!! A laptop, G-Man..." Giles found himself in a bear hug. "Uhhh, Faith? Not a Slayer, need air."

"Oops sorry." Faith released the older man.

"That is quite alright Faith. Here this goes with it, ask Willow for help if you need to. You know I'm clueless when it comes to technology."

Faith unwrapped a program and saw that it was for artwork. She put it into the CD drive and heard it whir for a few minutes and then she put it back into the case. She pulled up the files and grinned, "It can use paint brushes, pencils and everything. This is so cool. Better than the junk I did."

Angel grabbed her arm and in a stern voice said, "BULLSHIT! The masterpieces you created are much better. Don't even think about not giving them out tomorrow."

Faith swallowed hard. "Are you sure Gramps? I mean that was before I could buy cool stuff for everyone. I'm thinking they will like the store bought stuff better."

"Not a chance dearheart, I want my painting tomorrow and I'm sure everyone else does too." Breanna gave everyone a stern look and they all agreed quickly.

"Faith, I didn't know you could paint." Wesley looked almost as stunned as he did when the dark haired girl healed him.

"It's just a hobby Wes, I made a painting for everyone...since I didn't have any money at the time." *Note to self, paint something for Wesley and Spike before they come over for dinner tomorrow.*

"Give me a minute GD, I think I lost your gift." Angel was searching his pockets.

"It's okay Gramps, you don't have to give me anything." Faith said in a slightly disappointed voice.

"AHA! Found them."

"Found what?"

"These," Angel handed Faith a set of keys with a Harley Davidson key chain attached. It's from all of the LA crew. Cordy, Fred, Gunn and Lorne wish you a happy birthday too."

"No freakin way...Gramps? Really?...A Harley?"

Angel led her over to the window and pointed to the large crate in Giles' driveway. Faith rushed outside, and started ripping the crate apart until the motorcycle was in plain sight.

"Ow...shit, " Faith stuck her finger in her mouth and using her teeth managed to pull the sliver out. Buffy was at her side immediately.

"Are you okay Faith?"

"Yeah B, healer now...remember?" Faith concentrated and the mark on her finger disappeared.

"Wanna go for a ride little girl?" Faith smirked at the older slayer and winked.

"Faith, you can drive Buffy over to the Bronze later. You still have more presents to open inside." Giles held the door open and motioned everyone back inside.

Angel handed both Slayers a helmet. "For later."

Once back inside again, Faith got back to the business of opening presents.

When Faith opened the book that Breanna had bought she turned the pages quickly. "Holy Shit Gran! This is you...you were a flapper."

"Yes dearheart, I wasn't always this old woman you see before you."

"And look! Angel, your sister is here too."

Angel came over to look. His eyes watered for a moment as he looked at his sister and then his pseudo granddaughter. "She would have painted you Faith."

Buffy was looking over Faith's shoulder. *Wow, Breanna was beautiful and so was Angel's sister Faith.*

Faith was handed more presents and happily ripped multicolored paper to shreds. When Faith was finally finished, Giles place looked like a confetti bomb had gone off. Willow whispered a few words while Angel and Spike held green garbage bags. In minutes, Giles home was as spotless as it was before.

Buffy smiled at her happy girlfriend and held out a small box.

"B, you didn't have to get me anything...you are my gift forever."

"Just open it Faith." B handed the box to Faith.

Faith ripped open the present and found a set of keys. She looked at Buffy questioningly.

"I thought you might like your own set of keys to OUR house. It is your home too now." Buffy knew how important they would be.

*Home...I have a real home...a happy home.* Faith pulled the smaller blonde woman into her arms and kissed her with all the passion she had in herself. All other guests quietly moved to the other room thereby giving the Slayers a few extra minutes. They heard soft slow music coming from the living room and went to rejoin their friends.

Anya and Xander, Breanna and Spike, and Willow and Wes were dancing. "B, would you mind if I danced with Gramps while you get Giles to cut loose?"

"Go for it Faith." B grabbed Giles hand and pulled him into her arms to dance. Faith immediately went over to Angel and held out her hand. Angel smiled and nodded. No one missed the looks passing between the Slayers. Angel danced Faith over to Buffy as Giles brought the blonde over to the brunette. The girls fell into a natural rhythm in seconds. Forehead to forehead looking deeply into each other's souls, the Slayers were in their own little world. And from the look on their faces, it was a very nice place. When the music stopped, the Slayers didn't. Finally Breanna tapped Faith on the shoulder.

"Dearheart, the music stopped a few minutes ago."

Faith and Buffy both blinked several times, "HUH? Music?...oh yeah we were dancing." Faith grinned and blushed almost as deep as red as her counterpart.

"I'm thinking we should go to the Bronze now," Xander said.

"G-Man, would you do me a favor?"

"Name it Faith."

"Would you take Gran back to B's and show her where everything is?"

"Of course Faith, after all she has promised to make me a pot of real English tea."

Faith snickered, "Tea?...sure sure G-Man. You WILL treat her like the lady she is won't you?" Faith's tone left no room for misinterpretation.

"I assure you Faith, Breanna will be quite safe with me. It is possible to enjoy someone's company without..."

"You know Giles, you are almost as cute as Will when she blushes." Buffy smiled and took her girlfriend's hand.

"B, gimme a minute. I need to talk to Gramps and Breanna. I'll be right back." Faith untangled her fingers from Buffy, walked over to Angel, linked arms and led him to the kitchen. She grabbed her coat on the way. She requested that Breanna to join them in the kitchen.

"Gramps, Breanna... I...uh...need your opinion and maybe, kind of your permission."

"What's up GD?"

"You can tell me anything dearheart."

Faith pulled the ring box out of her inner pocked and showed it to her family. "I intend to give this to B on New Year's Eve. Do you like it? Do you think she will? Do I have your approval?"

"Yes, yes and absolutely GD."

"Yes, yes and you have it Faith my darling."

Faith grinned and put the box back inside her inner coat pocket. "Shhhh, its a secret till then." Faith was almost giddy.

Willow and Buffy had their heads together when they rejoined them. "You really do like Faith don't you Will? As a friend, I mean."

"Yes Buffy, the more I get to know her now, the more I hate myself for not giving her a chance the first time. She really is an amazing woman. And it's about time the two of you got together. We could all see it happening in the past and like you we were kind of freaked by it then. But now, I can't think of anyone that deserves to be happy more than you two."

Faith hugged her best friend, "Thanks Will."

Angel handed the Slayers their helmets saying he would meet them at the Bronze. He had an errand to run first.

Buffy handed her house keys to Breanna, "I don't think Faith is quite ready to hand over her keys just yet." Breanna pulled the small blonde into her arms and hugged her. "You gave her the most important gift tonight Buffy. You gave her a loving home and we both know that it's a first for her."

"First of many firsts...good firsts to come." *Faith cumming... down girl. Soon.*

Coats were grabbed; seats assigned in cars, hugs and kisses all around before the group of young people and two vamps left.

AT BUFFY'S HOUSE

Angel knocked and was let in. He carried in Peter's treasure chest first and went back out to get Faith's. When Giles saw what was in them, his knees almost buckled. "Good God, there must a few million pounds in those chests."

"About five million US dollars actually Rupert."

"Each?" Giles swallowed heavily.

"Yes, I'm sure Faith will use it wisely and she is in charge of Peter's wealth until such time she decides to turn it over to him."

Angel pulled out his cell phone and called Willow.

"Hello?"

"Willow, do you leave a spare key somewhere? I have your treasure chest and I want to put it in your apartment."

"When you get to my place, call me again and I will unlock the door and then lock it again when you leave. Thanks Angel."

"No problem, expect my call in a little while."

AT THE BRONZE

Willow hung up and joined her friends at a table in the corner. Spike pointed to himself and the dance floor. Willow smiled and took his hand. Anya and Xander also went to the dance floor, leaving the oblivious Slayers to themselves.

"B, am I really in your arms or am I dreaming...again?"

Buffy pulled her girlfriend onto her lap and kissed her senseless. "What do you think Faith?"

"Thinking, I want a lot more of that." Faith gently cupped Buffy's face and kissed her with more tenderness than even she knew she was capable of.

Willow answered her phone, whispered a few words and hung up. A few minutes later she answered her again, whispered more weird words, said thank you and hung up.

Faith and Buffy were taking there time letting there tongues become better acquainted. Suddenly, both Slayers tensed. Their Slayer senses were off the wall. Both girls jumped to their feet and were looking around. "There B, the skank with the purple hair." The Slayers moved in unison as they dragged the vamp outside and dusted her proper. They came back in and got a couple more drinks and sat down at the table.

"Where did you guys go?" Willow asked with a smirk on her face before seeing the stake being replaced inside their coats. "Is everything okay?"

"It is now Red, thanks for asking." Faith smiled at her new bestest bud.

"Damn vamps can't even leave us alone for your birthday," Buffy grumbled as she kissed her fellow slayer.

Willow mumbled a few words, then a few more. "Done."

"What did you do Red?" Faith pulled Buffy into her arms.

"Just gave all the vamps a strong suggestion to not cause any problems for the rest of tonight and tomorrow. I think that bringing their blood temp up a few degrees kind of sealed the deal."

"You rock Red."

"Thanks Will."

Angel and Spike came over to the witch, the question plain on their faces.

"Sorry guys, I should have warned you. They had to take care of a vamp earlier, so I decided to make sure the rest of the night would be vamp free...uh, bad vamp free I mean."

"Well if you save a dance for me and give me another one of those chocolate chip cookies tomorrow, I think I can forgive you luv." Spike held out his hand.

"Anything to make their night, duty free is fine by me Willow." Angel sat down at the table and ordered Nachos Supreme.

Willow smiled at Spike and took his hand. This time the Slayers also took to the dance floor. As always, they drew a crowd. But Faith and Buffy were oblivious to everyone and everything but each other. Their dance moves were sensual enough to make most men use their drinks to hide the evidence of their arousal. Spike and Willow just laughed at the spectacle. "Bloody Slayers, heating up the place...and for once totally clueless about it."

Willow giggled into Spike's shoulder. "Now Spiky, behave."

*Spiky? Bollocks.*

As Willow and Spike made their way back to the table, Spike saw Angel digging into a right royal mess of something.

"Bloody hell Po...Angel," Spike quickly looked at the dark Slayer and was glad she didn't hear his little slip of the tongue. "What's that mess?"

"Nachos Supreme, here try some." Angel handed Spike some triangle chips with cheese, hamburger, green peppers, red peppers, onion and ranch dressing on it.

"Bloody hell mate, these are good." Spike reached for more and Angel swatted his hand before he could grab any more. "Get your own."

Willow, hearing the exchange went to the bar and ordered a large Nachos Supreme for Spike and brought it back to him. "Knock yourself out Spiky."

*Again with the Spiky. Food and 'Spiky' or no food...bollocks!" Spike held his tongue and dug in. "MMMphhh, want some?"

"Uh...no thanks. I think I'll go get the next round of drinks. They look like they could use them," Willow said pointing at the Slayers who seemed to be winding down.

"I think Will bought another round for us, but we can leave right after...I mean, if you want to." Buffy suddenly felt shy and wondered where it came from.

"I so want to B, leave with you that is." Faith also turned quiet. Faith reached out for Buffy's hand and they went back to the table.

Anya and Xander came over to toast the birthday girl. Anya having told Xander more than he wanted to know and not nearly enough when she said she could smell the Slayers need. It was also pointed out to him by the ever-helpful Anya, that it should have been obvious to anyone that the slayers were or soon would be, orgasm buddies.

Xander finally noticed the way the Slayers hadn't really left each other's side all night. He also saw the little touches meant to tease and arouse. He looked over at Willow and she just nodded. *About time you saw what everyone else does.*

Willow handed out the drinks, looked at the Slayers and said," To the birthday girl...Happy Birthday Faith, many more." Everyone clinked glasses and downed their drink. Buffy sat on Faith's lap and promptly forgot what she wanted to say as Faith nuzzled her neck and whispered so that only another Slayer could hear, "Can we go home now?"

Buffy felt lightheaded as warmth spread through her body. She whispered back, "I thought you'd never ask." As Buffy tried to get off of her girlfriends lap, Faith pulled her back down and kissed her passionately. When the dark girl finally pulled back, she said what was in her heart; "I love you B, always have and always will."

"I love you too Faith, forever. Let's go home." Looking over her shoulder she remembered what she had wanted to say. "I expect all you guys to show up at four thirty tomorrow. Dinner will arrive at five thirty. So we can open presents first."

"Sounds like a plan. Xander, will you drop me off at home please?" Willow went to pick up her coat as was surprised to find Spike holding it up for her to put on. "Thanks Spike, see you tomorrow. Merry Christmas."

"To you too luv."

"Of course Willow, see you all tomorrow as Casa Del Summers for the great feast." Xander, Anya and Willow left together. Angel and Spike decided to see how effective Willow's magic had been.

"We'll see you both tomorrow and don't worry about anything. We will take care of anything that comes up." Angel hugged Faith, "Happy Birthday GD."

"Thanks Gramps... you too Spike. Manyanya." Faith grabbed Buffy's hand and they ran out of the club and over to Faith's Harley. After putting on their helmets, Faith peeled outta there as fast as the bike would go. Buffy's hands slipped from Faith's waist to her crouch area and Faith moaned...loudly. They were home in minutes.

Faith pulled her keys out of her pocket and just looked at them, Buffy and the well-decorated house. She grinned at Buffy and put them in the lock. Once inside they took off their coats and sat down on the couch. Buffy handed Faith a control box and told her to press the button.

When she did, the largest tree that Faith had ever seen lit up and cast it's multicolored light across the entire living room. The reflective properties of the wrapping paper used on most of the gifts under the tree added to the splendor.

"B! It's beautiful."

"Look up gorgeous." Buffy pointed to the ceiling.

Faith saw several sprigs of mistletoe and waggled her eyebrows. *So that's what Red was hiding earlier. I can't believe that B went to all this trouble...just for me. Maybe...maybe she really does love me.*

Buffy was on her lap in seconds kissing the dark haired girl until air became an issue. "God Faith, you have the softest, sexiest lips I have ever felt...or tasted."

"B...., oh god..." Faith's verbal skills were almost non-existent. She could feel the warmth, and smell the wetness of her soon to be girlfriend and it was driving her own needs into overdrive.

Buffy reluctantly got off of Faith's lap and held out her hand. Faith got up off of the couch and took the small hand in hers. "I had Willow leave something on the end of your bed...I will join you in a few minutes." Buffy kissed Faith and scampered down to her room and closed the door. Faith licked her dry lips and went into her room. A small lamp cast a fireplace type glow to her room and saw a short copper colored silk robe on the bed. The pockets showed a monogram; B, a heart and then an F. She quickly striped down and put it on. *This is so right.* She down on her bed for a moment to collect herself.

Buffy leaned back against her closed bedroom door. *This is it, it's finally gonna happen. I will finally be able to show Faith how much I love her.* Buffy striped down and put on a light blue silk robe...the matching one to the one she left for Faith. Her hand ran over stitched initials and she smiled. *This is so right.* She went down the hall to Faith's room.

Two equally shaky hands reached for the doorknob. Both young women knew that their future was on the other side.

Chapter Sixteen

Two equally shaky hands reached for the doorknob. Both young women knew that their future was on the other side.

Faith pulled harder on the knob and Buffy almost hit the door as she was pulled into Faith's room.

Both girls froze and just took in the sight before them. Buffy drew in a sharp breath when she saw Faith in the copper robe, it brought out her dark brown eyes...eyes that were filled with passion. Faith saw Buffy's baby blues and melted.

Buffy drew in a deep breath, *God...she's so beautiful.*

Faith swallowed heavily, *Please don't let this be a dream... please don't let this be a dream.* Faith squeezed her eyes tightly shut.

"Open those beautiful brown eyes Faith. I promise you, this is real...very real." Buffy gently pulled the dark girl into her arms and kissed her passionately.

"B? Don't ever let me go."

"I won't Faith. I don't just wanna be with you...I love you, all of you." Buffy slipped her hands under the folds of the robe Faith was wearing. "All of you Faith...Heart," Buffy placed a light kiss over her girlfriend's heart, "Mind," Buffy stood on her tippy-toes to kiss Faith's forehead as they both slipped each others robes off, "Body," Both girls moaned when they felt their fevered flesh touch, "And Soul," Buffy slowly backed Faith to the bed and landed on her, she leaned forward to kiss the dark girls eyelids.

Faith wrapped her arms around her blonde counterpart and moaned deeply into the kiss...a kiss that left both Slayers gasping for breath and wanting more...a lot more.

Buffy placed Faith's hands around the metal slots of the headboard of the bed, "Leave em there." The blonde girl saw a single drop of sweat fall down the lovely neck in front of her and had to taste it. Her tongue snaked out and gently licked up the tasty treat.

"Oh god...B!" Faith hips bucked involuntarily.

"Easy baby...I'm just getting started. I wanna touch and taste every single part of you...slowly."

"Slow...bad," Faith moaned.

Buffy smiled as she licked around her girlfriend's ear and back down her neck to the pulse point, which she sucked on long enough to leave a mark. *MINE!*

Faith felt and heard that through their bond, *YURS!*

Buffy claimed the lips she had been dreaming about for years. The passion built slowly as their tongues got to know each other. The heat began to build as the Slayers unconsciously began rubbing their bodies together. "Oh god Faith, you are just so...MMMMM."

Buffy flicked her nail across one of Faith's nipples and watched as her eyes flew open and the sound that came out was as primal as anything Buffy had ever heard before and it made her own desire shoot into the stratosphere. When she took it into her mouth and sucked on it, she thought she was in heaven. She ran her tongue around the nipple and bit down gently before licking around the whole breast and starting with the other one. Buffy felt her juices slid down her legs at the same time Faith did.

Spreading her legs as an incentive, Faith tried using her stomach muscles to push Buffy down further but the blonde Slayer was having none of that...yet.

"Now, now baby, I'll get there...eventually." Buffy palmed both breasts and was massaging them as she slowly slid her body down over well-toned abs. She tickled the presented bellybutton with the tip of her tongue and laughed as Faith twisted the metal slats. Buffy's fingertips were running abstract patterns all over Faith's rapidly overheating body. The touch was feather light and meant to arouse. Buffy found and used her newly gained knowledge of Faith's hot spots.

"B...pleaseeee, can't take much more...pleaseeee." Faith begged.

Buffy fingers were softly running up the inside of a now very wet thigh. First one then the other. Finally Buffy leaned down and while looking up at Faith, she blew on the vibrating clit.

Faith exploded. "Beeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!!!!!!"

Thanks to Slayer strength, Buffy was able to hang on…barely. She came back up to kiss Faith who was still shivering in pleasure. Once she was sure Faith was totally back, she went back down to answer her own nonvoiced question. *I wonder if she tastes as good as she smells?* One lick from bottom to top of the now soaked opening and she knew she had never tasted anything so good in her entire life. Faith bucked at the first touch of Buffy's tongue on her clit. Her lover's hot breath in her intimate places was bringing her to the edge again.

"B...please...more...you got me so close again...pleaseeee."

Buffy took the little nib into her mouth and sucked on it. She ran her tongue over it several times before latching onto to it and slowly increasing the pressure of suction. Faith was squirming big time.

"Yeahhhh B......like that...Ohhhhhh fuck, that feels sooooo good...gonna cummmmmmmmmm...Beeeeee!!!!!

Buffy licked her lips and decided she definitely wanted more of Faith's creamy sweet goodness. She licked up the previous two orgasms and started to tease the clit. Faith responded instantly.

"Easy there birthday girl, we have all night...all the nights of the rest of our lives." Faith came forward and captured Buffy's lips in her teeth. She sucked on them and send her tongue in to capture its most willing playmate.

Buffy needed to calm herself down a bit before continuing to show Faith how much she loved her. Faith wasn't helping any by doing a slow bump and grind that brought their pussies together. "Damn baby, you taste sooo good...gotta have more." Buffy kissed her way back down between Faith's legs.

"You keep that up B, and there will be more...lot's more cumming your wayyyy...mmmm, B...oh god, what are you doing to meeeee?"

"Loving you...want me to stop?" Buffy asked around a mouthful of wet pussy lips.

"Hell no! Dun stoppppp." Faith was quaking in her skin. Buffy smiled and continued her ministrations. She stuck her tongue in as far as she could and vibrated it. It wasn't long before Faith was crying out again.

"Oh fuck me...BEEEEEEEEE!!!!!" The metal twisted more and neither girl noticed or would have cared if they did.

Buffy brought her lover down slowly by alternating licking and blowing on the cherry red clit.

Faith's breathing was taking a little while to return to normal. Buffy sat on her hunches and waited for Faith to reopen her eyes. The love she saw in them when Faith looked at her brought tears to her eyes. *How could I have not seen the love she has for me, we could have been together for years by now.*

The Slayers heard church bells in the background and knew it was midnight.

"Did you enjoy your birthday Faith?" Buffy used her most seductive voice.

Faith wasn't able to speak just yet, so she just nodded while still gasping for breath. A few minutes later Faith said, "That was the best birthday I've ever had B and it's all cuz of you. I love you Buffy." Seeing Buffy look at her strangely, she said, "Yeah I do know your name."

"Like it when ya call me B. But now baby, you just lay here and regain your strength...you're gonna need it. I'll be back in a moment with your first Christmas gift."

Faith gave her patented cocky grin. "Hurry back B, I miss ya already." *What is my blonde bombshell up to now?* Faith relaxed against the pillows and realized her hands were still attached to the headboard, she slowly flexed her fingers and let go. She put her hands under her head and smiled. *I have never felt this good, this satisfied in my life. Gotta pay B back...oh yeah, liking this thought pattern.* While Faith was musing, she didn't see Buffy's return until she saw the shadow fall across her body. She looked up and stopped breathing entirely.

"You like, Faith?" Buffy did a little pirouette.

Buffy was wearing a red-laced teddy with white fur trim...and a Ho Ho hat. "I thought you might like to unwrap your first gift...now, but if you don't want to..." Buffy teased as she turned away from the flushed younger Slayer.

Faith was panting already, "Fuck yeah...I love it...c'mere." Faith growled and grabbed her girlfriend around the waist and pulled her down on top of herself. Buffy grinned; she knew what reaction she would get from her attire. After all she had chosen it just for Faith's enjoyment.

"Happy Ho Ho baby." Buffy grinned mischievously as she put Faith's hand on one of the Velcro closings.

RIIIIPPPPPPP, Faith pulled off one covering across her girlfriends breasts, then finding the other pulled if off and dropped it beside the bed.

Buffy moaned as she felt her lover's lips encase one of her painfully erect nipples. " *MMMM, god...her lips are magic. What was I doing? Oh yeah...Faith.* Buffy giggled which for the moment threw her Dark Slayer off. This was just long enough for Buffy to regain control of her libido and of Faith's wandering hands which by now had managed to rip the rest of the HO HO suit off. "Wasn't finished with you yet Faith." The seductive smile Buffy gave Faith was more than enough to remind the dark girl why she loved her light counterpart.

"Beeeeeee, wanna touch you so bad..." Faith said even as she allowed Buffy to replace her hands on the two slats that weren't twisted.

"Wow Faith, you really are an artist." Buffy laughed as she saw the twisted metal railings.

Faith turned enough to look over her shoulder and when she saw the damage she had done, she groaned. *Way to go idiot, Buffy is gonna be pissed.* She was therefore surprised when she saw the mischievous look in those gorgeous green eyes.

"So, I figure you should hold these two," Buffy placed Faith's hands on the two outside slats, "And I will supply the incentive for your creativity to bloom...again. Then they will match," Buffy said as if it should have been obvious. Buffy ran her first two fingers over Faith's lips. Faith sucked them into her mouth, wrapped her tongue around Buffy's fingers and did a fine imitation of a pole dance. Buffy moaned loudly and removed her fingers. She left a warm wet trail down Faith's body and enjoyed watching her girlfriend squirm and moan. When Buffy's fingers reached the wiry curly hair of her lover's pussy, both women drew in a sharp breath.

"Fuck me B, do it now...I need you...in me." Faith wasn't sure if she spoke or used their bond, but as long as Buffy got the message she didn't care how.

And get the message she did. Leaning her full weight on Faith and kissing her senseless, Buffy pushed two fingers into the warm wet recess. Faith's hips rocked up to try to pull them. Buffy curled them and reached for the smooth patch she knew was there.

It was a good thing that Faith was a Slayer because the speed of which she was shaking and rolling her head back and forth across the pillow would have given anyone else a whiplash. "OH god B, you feel so good. More...faster...pleaseeeee."

Buffy added another a finger and used her thigh to shove them in farther. Faith was speaking in tongues, but Buffy understood. The blonde girl licked her lips before claiming the softest, sexiest lips on Earth. Buffy rubbed the smooth spot and Faith arched up a good couple of feet off the bed, but she did manage to keep her hands where Buffy had put them. "NGHHHHH,

Beeeeeeeeeeeeee...mmmm, can't believe I'm gonna cum again..."

Buffy pulled back far enough to look deeply into Faith's eyes. The absolute trust and a willingness to give up total control was enough to make Buffy drip with desire. She knew, in some back recess of her mind, that she had been almost gushing all over her girlfriend's leg. Faith suddenly stopped...moving, moaning and screamed... "BEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE, for youuuuuuuuuuuuu!!!"

Buffy waited until Faith's eyes stopped spinning before ducking down to take a taste. Still moving her fingers and using her tongue roughly across an enflamed clit, it didn't take long for

Faith to let her pleasure be known. "Fuck meeeeee, god BEEEEE," Faith was panting and gasping for breath. "B...ya gotta...stop, I can't...not again..." Faith was doing her damndest to keep the encroaching darkness at bay.

Buffy slowly removed her fingers and heard the wet plop. Licking off her cum soaked fingers she sighed, "You taste wonderful Faith." Buffy laid her full weight on her still breathless lover. She started doing a slow hip rotation, rubbing her aching clit across the now very sensitive clit of Faith.

"B....no more...I just...pant, pant, wheeze, gasp…can't." Faith could smell and feel Buffy's need.

"Just move with me Faith," Buffy giggled and added, "Think of it as mattress dancing baby."

"I gotta touch you...can I?" Faith knew she needed an anchor if she was to stay conscious long enough to get Buffy off at least once. *Holy shit, she made me cum five times and would probably keep at it...if I could take any more.*

Buffy nodded, "Please do, I wanna feel you touch me."

Faith unwrapped her stiffened fingers off the slats and pulled Buffy down, mashing their breasts. The heat coming off of Buffy was driving Faith wild. 'Side to side, umphhhh, side to side, umphhhh. It only took a couple of minutes before Buffy and Faith both screamed out each other's names.

"Faith, oh god...yeah...so close...cummmm with meeeee!!!"

"I...OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO BEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!"

Faith slowed down her movements gradually, drawing out the most pleasure possible for both of them. Buffy collapsed, panting on Faith's ample chest. Faith closed her arms around her girlfriend and squeezed. Buffy smiled up at her through half closed eyes. Both exhausted Slayers fell asleep luxuriating in the warmth of each other.

CHRISTMAS MORNING 8:00 am

Breanna was making coffee in the kitchen when she felt Joyce's presence. A moment later she felt a thin bracelet being placed on her arm. She looked up and saw Joyce Summers for the first time.

"Buffy does look like you Joyce. You are a very beautiful woman."

"I understand you need my help today..." The unspoken question hanging.

Joyce smiled and nodded. <Can you drive?>

"Yes, but I don't have an American license."

"Give a few minutes to go get dressed, help yourself to the coffee."

Breanna went up and changed. When she came downstairs, Joyce handed her the keys to Buffy's car. "So, where are we going?"

"Tell me how to get there and I promise you that we will come back with the wee fur balls."

AT THE SHELTER

Sean was mumbling under his breath. "Working on Christmas...this sucks big time. Since he had his earphones on, he didn't hear the bell on the main door.

After waiting a couple of minutes, Joyce disappeared into the office and ripped the headphones off. Sean jumped and needed to be peeled off the ceiling. Joyce rejoined Breanna and they pressed the buzzer again. This time Sean answered through the door, "What do ye want so early?"

"Sean Timothy O'Grady!!! You open this door right now!"

The door opened and a red-faced, red haired young man looked out. "Mrs. Liam! Welcome to Sunnydale, although I think you might not want to stay here...it has boogey men."

"Well then I suggest you get those two special kittens and I will be on my way."

"How do you...never mind, you always did have your ways. Follow me and I'll show them to you."

In a cage, Breanna saw two kittens. "They're adorable."

"They are sisters and have two different colored eyes. One green and one brown. The black one is called Aphrodite, and the white is called Athena."

"I'll take them both and supplies for the next few days as well."

"Mrs Liam, I would love to sell you those kittens, but there is a rule about selling animals for Christmas presents. People buy animals for others and the others just bring them back a few weeks later. That is not good for the animals."

"I assure you they won't be coming back Sean. Now call your boss if you need because I'm not leaving without them." Seeing her put her hands on her hips, Sean knew that he had no choice in the matter.

Ten minutes later, Sean came out with two boxes each holding a kitten. He carried litter, a case of canned food and bag of hard food out to her car. "I explained to my boss about knowing you from home and he said if I was sure about the kittens not coming back...well then they and the supplies are yours for free. But don't tell anyone."

"I won't Sean. What will ye be doing later today?"

"I am going to my girlfriends parents house for dinner. But I have to stay here till noon. And seeing you made it worth it Mrs. Liam. How are you...really?"

"I'm fine Sean, I have a new family member here in Sunnydale."

"HUH?"

"Me darling Faith...Faith Winters and she is the reason I am here. She is an amazing young lady. But I need to get back before she wakes up. Thank you Sean and a Merry Christmas to you and your girlfriends family."

BACK AT THE SUMMERS RESIDENCE

Breanna carried in one boxed kitten at a time and then the supplies.

"The girls will love them, that was a great idea Joyce." Breanna let the kittens out after filling a litter box. She closed the kitchen door to keep them in one place.

UPSTAIRS 10:00am

Faith felt a warm body on top of her, so she opened her eyes slowly. When she saw Buffy sleeping peacefully on her body, she smiled. *Wasn't a dream.*

Thanks to Slayer hearing, Faith knew Buffy was waking up. Just as Buffy opened her eyes, Faith leaned up and kissed her tenderly.

"Morning B." Faith's voice was almost non-existent and what there was of it was very hoarse.

"MMMM...Faith. I love you. You have a cold...your voice...it's…"

"Love you too B. Last night was...it was...no one ever made me feel so loved...or safe. Part of me thinks it was a dream still. Laryngitis a la Buffy Summers. Now let's see if I can pass that particular problem to you."

Buffy gently turned Faith's head and pointed to the mangled slats of the headboard and giggled. "My artist does metal work too," Buffy laughed.

"Oh shit, I'm sorry B. I'll try to fix them." Faith sat up and gripped the slats. Buffy grabbed her hands, "Don't do that Faith, I like the way they look now. And it kind of tells me that I did something right last night."

"Very right and now it's my turn B." Faith rolled over and was looking down on Buffy. *God, she is so beautiful.*

Buffy wrapped her arms around her dark Slayer and kissed her deeply for as long as she could before seeing spots and deciding that air was a necessity.

"I love your lips Faith, I just wanna kiss ya all the time."

"Not stopping ya B...never would. I kind of like the taste of your lips too." Faith hands started tracing light patterns around Buffy's breast. "Look B! Hard Christmas candy." Faith giggled and sucked on one nipple then the other.

"Feels so good Faith, but I need more." Buffy shifted her hips causing Faith to moan.

"Easy there B, it's my turn to play." Faith nibbled on Buffy's ear while rubbing a very responsive nipple between her fingers.

"Faith, please...I want...no, I need you so bad...pleaseee baby touch me, love me, make me scream."

Hearing that tone coming out of her girlfriend sent waves of pleasure to her center. "Oh god B," Faith could feel Buffy's desire through their bond. She smiled and decided to use every weapon in her lovemaking arsenal. Sending lustful thoughts through their bond while gently riding Buffy's leg caused both girls to growl. Their primitive side was coming out in full force. Faith leaned down and took in the aroused scent of her girlfriend.

*Whoa! What the fuck! I was just about to taste ma girl and now I'm on her face being eaten.*

"Damn B, how...oh good, so good." Using ever fiber of her being and then some, Faith raised herself off of Buffy's tongue temporarily...as long as it took for her to turn around to position herself back down between the blonde girls legs.

"Wanna taste you too B." Faith licked from one end to the other, and then licked her lips. *Tastes better than I could have imagined...and I have a great imagination.* Using long slim fingers to hold her lover's southern lips open, Faith used the tip of her tongue to taste every square inch of Buffy. Skidding over Buffy's throbbing clit, causing the older girl to moan heavily into herself, Faith shivered hearing the sounds coming out of the woman she loved.

"Oh god Faith, you taste soooo good and feel even better, Yeah, there...oh god, mmmmmmmmmmm."

"B! Yeah, like that...harder...oh yeah, your the best B."

"Gonna cum for me Faith?"

"Fuck yeah, just a little more...a little morahhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!

"Faithhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!" Buffy shouted herself hoarse.

Faith swung around so she was on top of the heavily breathing blonde girl facing her. *She is so beautiful when she lets go.*

Faith placed gentle kisses all over Buffy's face and neck.

"God Faith, you're amazing," Buffy panted.

Faith rolled over holding onto Buffy. Buffy blinked, Huh?"

"I like the feel of you on me and in my arms. Is it okay?"

Buffy squeezed her girlfriend tightly, "It's so okay Faith."

Buffy could feel dampness above her ear. "Faith, baby...what's wrong?"

"Nothing B...it's just..."

"Just what baby?" Buffy cupped Faith's face and looked deep into her eyes, silently telling her that everything was okay.

"You're the good slayer, the good student, the good girl and the PTB give me everything I ever wanted...why? What's the catch? I'm afraid that this...us, may only be in my mind...like some fucked head trip."

"Look at me Faith," Buffy said sitting up. "You are a good slayer now, you graduated University with honors, you have a new healing power, and you have my love...and me, for as long as you'll have me. I love you Faith and nothing anyone says or does could ever change that...I promise baby."

"My B…always?"

"Always."

The girls snuggled down into each other and fell back asleep.

NOON

KNOCK KNOCK..."Girls? Are ye awake? Breakfast will be ready in fifteen minutes."

Faith struggled to unwrap her legs from Buffy. She got out of bed and was about to answer the door when B squawked. "Faith...robe."

Faith looked down at her nakedness and grabbed her copper robe. Answering the door with a sheepish smile she said, "Morning Gran. We'll be down in a few minutes."

"Actually dearheart, its noon, but who cares. A dozen waffles each will be waiting." Breanna smiled and went back downstairs to the kitchen. She rounded up the playful kittens and put them back in their boxes and hid them in the far corner beside the Christmas tree.

Once the Slayers smelled breakfast, their stomach made themselves known...loudly. Both girls laughed and grabbed track pants and T-shirts. They came flying downstairs to the kitchen and skidded to a stop. As soon as they sat down at the table across from each other, they joined hands.

Breanna placed plates stacked with waffles, dripping syrup and covered in icing sugar, in front of the Slayers.

Buffy and Faith were just staring into each others eyes and were in their own private world.

Breanna came over and smiled before speaking. "Faith me darling, do you think Buffy is gonna vanish into thin air?"

"No."

"Buffy, do you think Faith will disappear?"

"No."

"Good," the older woman placed knives and forks in the girls hands after she gently pulled them apart. "Eat now, play later."

"Yes M'am."

"Okay Gran."

Both Slayers, properly chastised...broke into a silly-assed grin before cracking up totally.

"Listen to me girls, I may be old...but I'm not dead. I do remember hornymones."

*Hornymones?* Faith laughed even harder.

*Hornymones? Oh god...there's two of em...I'm so dead.* "MOM!"

Joyce appeared and looked around. <Yes Buffy, what's wrong?>

Buffy stuttered, "there's two of them and she...she..." The beet red coloring of Buffy's face testified to her acute embarrassment.

"Hey, Joyce...it wasn't me...this time." Faith started laughing again and was joined by Breanna.

Breanna came over and explained to Joyce was had been said and the girls reaction.

"Hey Joyce, gimme some credit will ya? I had Red put a silence spell on both of our rooms."

"You did Faith? I asked Angel to have Willow do that too."

"See B, great minds think alike."

Once breakfast had been polished off, Breanna insisted that that girls load the dishwasher while she went up to her room to bring down gifts for them.

Flinging pots, bowls, plates and silverware to Buffy standing by the dishwasher, they got everything in place and started the cycle. Buffy pulled her girlfriend into a passionate kiss that left them both breathless.

"GIRLS?" Come on, presents are a waiting," Breanna shouted.

"To be continued...later," Faith said as she reluctantly loosened the lip lock from her lover. They joined hands and walked into the main living room.

"Well it's about time girls." Breanna pointed to the boxes that had air holes. Buffy yours is on that chair, Faith this one is yours."

Both girls opened the boxes and squealed. "A kitten!"

"Look B, mine has a green eye and a brown one...just like us."

"So does mine, look."

"Faith me darling, she is called Aphrodite and Buffy, yours is called Athena. They are sisters and are from Joyce."

"Mom?"

"Joyce?"

Faith had her face in a black ball of vibrating/purring fur. She giggled and kissed her kitten on the top of the head and had her nose scratched for her trouble. "Hey now furball, easy on the claws."

Buffy's kitten got her claw caught on Buffy's top lip. "Owie."

"Hey Athey, don't be damaging the goods...or no catnip for you."

Faith gently kissed her girlfriend. "All better B?"

"Not quite, maybe..." Buffy pulled her girlfriend down onto her lap and the kitten climbed up on her shoulder. Their kiss was soft and tender.

Joyce and Breanna smiled at each other, both loved seeing the girls so happy.

"Girls, there are other presents waiting for you."

"K, Gran...just a minute," Faith held up her finger while deepening the kiss for a minute.

"Yes, but it was so long ago in my case. They do make a cute couple don't you think Joyce?"

RING RING

Breanna answered her cell phone. "Hello?"

"Merry Christmas mom, would ye go get the book I wrapped for our Faith?"

"Of course Brian, here talk to her and I will be right back." Breanna handed the phone to Faith.

"HI POP, Happy Ho Ho to ya."

"The same to you Faith, I sent a couple of gifts for you with my mother. One is a medical book. I flagged several pages in the section on ears. You will need to read that before I work on Petey. But even closer to my heart...please read the section on Arthritis...I believe you will be able to help my mother quite a bit...if you're willing."

"Shit, why didn't I think of that? Hey Doc, I know for a fact that Gran can use the energy stored in the sword, should I recharge us both before I start healing her?"

"That would be a good idea Faith. Now me mother doesn't know what is going to happen, I wasn't sure if you felt secure enough in your new power to try something new. I included a CD with explicit instructions on where to place your hands and what you need to see and do."

"Shit, the sword is in the trunk of the car Red took home last night. B and me, came home on my Harley."

"Can't the young witch send it or bring it to you?"

"I will call her in a few minutes to find out."

Breanna handed Faith the heavier of the two packages.

"Okay Pop, gimme a few minutes to read."

"I need to go now Faith, I will call back in about three hours if that's okay with you?"

"Okay Pop, I love ya."

"Love you too Faith, bye."

Faith had sent Buffy the important stuff through their Slayer bond, so Buffy would be aware of what she wanted to do.

~B, I need to go call Red and see about getting my sword here first. Me and Gran will need the extra power.~

~I know that helping Breanna means a lot to you, so go use your bedroom for privacy. She doesn't know what you have planned does she?~

~No, I just hope I really can help her.~

Faith looked all around and found her laptop. She carried it, the book and the CD upstairs to her room.

Breanna looked at the Slayer grinning at her, "What be ye up to now?"

Buffy smiled and did the zipper motion across her lips. "Mom, if you know what's going on...keep quiet, please."

Breanna looked from one blonde to the other wondering what was going on. She wasn't worried, she knew whatever the surprise was, that no one here would deliberately hurt her, but she was curious.

UPSTAIRS

Faith dialed Willow's phone number and waited for her to pick up.

"Hello," a bleary eyed Willow answered.

"Happy Shuka Khan Red."

"Faith! It's Hanukkah. What's up?

"Well Doc sent me some stuff and maybe I can heal some of Gran's physical problems."

"That's great Faith, how can I help?"

"I need my sword...and it's in the trunk of the car you went home in last night."

Willow mumbled a few unintelligible words and voila, the box with the sword in it appeared on Faith's bed.

"Your the best Red, thanks. Pushing my luck here, any chance you would be willing to part with the large sketchpad you have?"

"Sure, why?"

"Well I need to draw something for Wes and Spike before everyone gets here later."

The large sketchpad and several 4HH pencils appeared beside the box on Faith's bed.

"I don't suppose I can get a hint about my masterpiece?" Willow begged.

"Not a chance Red, I want it to be a surprise. I expect the truth from you...if ya don't like it, tell me...promise?"

"I promise, but you don't have anything to worry about Faith, I've seen your talent, so I know whatever you drew for me will be awesome. Grab a piece of paper and write this done exactly Faith."

"Okay, go ahead."

Willow slowly pronounced a few words and Faith wrote them down.

"What are they for Red?" Faith wasn't big on magic, but she trusted Willow.

"They will relax Breanna, so you can do your healing thing. I kind of figure the excess energy you both get from the sword will help too. I just wanna help her in some way too."

"Red, in the bag of gifts I left in the car for you. The one that is rectangular…you might wanna open before you come over here. I know it will bring back memories...good ones I hope."

Willow opened the present that Faith mentioned and drew in a sharp breath. "Faith, where did you get that picture of...Tara and me?"

"It's from that day in the park. I tracked down the guy snapping pictures that day and had several made of B...and B and me. When I saw that one of you and Tara, I had to get it for you. I meant to give it to Blondie, but the shit hit the fan right after and...I hope it brings back good memories, I don't wanna cause you pain."

"It will always hurt not having her here with me Faith, but this picture...it's perfect. Thank you very much."

"Welcome Red, see you later."

"Bye Faith."

Faith settled down to read the parts about Arthritis. She poked and prodded herself to feel the right areas. Then she put the CD in her laptop. *This is gonna work.* She picked up the sword and felt the energy transfer. She smiled; this was going to be the best Christmas ever.

Chapter Seventeen

Faith watched the CD for third time. She wanted to make sure she knew just where to touch Breanna in order for her healing energy to flow along the right pathways. *Now all I have to do is convince Gran to let me try.*

~B?~

~You've been up there for a while, is everything okay?~

~Yeah B. Can you send Gran up to my room please?~

Buffy pointed upstairs and told Breanna that Faith wanted to talk to her.

~She's on her way. Good Luck.~

Buffy looked at her mother, the question was plain in her eyes.

UPSTAIRS

Breanna knocked lightly on Faith's bedroom door.

"Come in Gran."

Breanna walked in and saw Faith had her laptop and the book her son had given her.

"Faith me darling, will ye be able to help the wee lad?"

"HUH? Oh yeah Gran, I will...soon. Today is all about me helping you...if you'll let me."

"I'm not sick or injured dearheart."

Faith sat Breanna down and played the end of the CD Brian had left for her. The older woman's mouth dropped open after listening to her son. *Can I let her see me and touch me?*

"I don't know that I can be nude in front of you Faith. This old body of mine is not a pretty site."

"Wanna help ya...not jump ya," Faith cracked.

Breanna allowed herself to smile. She removed her blouse and sat back down on the bed. Faith grinned and handed her the sword, she had recharged herself before calling Breanna. Taking a deep breath, Breanna gripped the sword and felt its energy flow through her. Faith placed the sword back in the case.

"Ready Gran?"

"If you start to get tired...I expect you to stop immediately."

"Yeah, yeah...hold still Gran." Faith placed her hands gently on the cords of Breanna's neck and slid down to her shoulders and across both.

Breanna could feel the warmth and found it to be totally relaxing. When she felt Faith undo her skirt, she didn't fight it.

Faith for her part was happy to be able to help someone she loved. Her touch was gentle and she went slow so as to not upset the relaxed Breanna. She looked at book again and moved her hands to the lower part of the spine. She could see the weak part and she strengthened it before moving down. Remembering the words that Red had given her, she repeated them softly and felt Breanna totally relax.

"Dearheart, that feels wonderful...almost as good as sex." Breanna knew this would get a laugh out of Faith and she wasn't wrong.

"I don't know Gran, sex feels pretty damn good."

"I did say almost dear," Breanna laughed.

Faith reached out for Breanna's arms and ran her hands across the elbow joint and then the wrist joints of both arms. "Okay Gran, I need you to lay down so I can get a grip on your knee joints and ankle joints. And I don't want you to keel over."

Breanna did up her skirt and blouse before lying down as Faith had asked. Faith wrapped her hands around both knee joints at the same time. She could see the disintegration of the bone and she pushed it back to where it belonged and strengthen them both.

"You okay Gran?"

"Yes dear, but I know you are getting tired. Maybe you should..."

"Almost done Gran, just your ankles now."

"They can wait dearheart."

"Not a chance, please Gran lemme finish what I started."

Breanna nodded and watched as Faith's eyes glowed a lighter shade of silver that signified Faith was running out of juice.

"There Gran. All finished, how do you feel?" Faith sat down heavily and waited for Breanna to answer.

Breanna stood up and the smile on her face was beautiful. "Dearheart...there is no pain...anywhere!"

"Tha's good." Faith took a deep breath and lay back. The exhaustion plain on her face.

DOWNSTAIRS

Joyce smiled, <She's finished healing Breanna Buffy. But she is very tired. Why don't you go up and keep her company for awhile.>

Buffy raced upstairs and skidded to a stop at Faith's door. She knocked and was told to come in by Breanna.

"Faith, are you okay?" Buffy could see that Faith was pale and obviously tired.

"Yeah B...it worked! Gran feels better."

"I haven't felt this good in over forty years me darling."

Buffy knew that the sword would help Faith. She reached for it and had her hand smacked by Breanna as Faith said, "NO B!, don't touch it!"

Buffy froze. "Huh? I just wanted to hand you the sword so you could regain your strength."

"B, ya gotta promise me that you will NEVER touch this sword. It's somehow DNA coded. Only my blood family can touch or use it. Your Slayer strength might save your life if you touch it, but you would be a hurting unit for a long time. Please B, promise me."

"Okay Faith, I promise never to touch your special sword."

"Thanks B, I love you way too much to lose you now." Faith yawned, "Maybe a short nap...is that okay with you."

"Of course, do you want me to leave?" *Please say no.*

"No."

Breanna pulled Buffy close and whispered, "Stay with her and I will come to get you girls a half hour before everyone arrives."

Breanna did a little pirouette and skipped out of Faith's room.

Buffy climbed onto Faith's bed and pulled her girlfriend into her arms while cooing lovey dovey things into her ear. "Sleep baby, I'm here."

"K." Buffy watched Faith fall asleep and joined her in the land of dreams.

DOWNSTAIRS

Breanna's smile lit up Joyce's face.

"By god Joyce, I feel half a century younger. I had almost forgot what it felt like to not be in pain. But she pushed herself to hard...I feel guilty."

<Breanna, Faith loves you and would do anything to help you. I bet the smile on her face when you showed how well you move now, was worth it.>

"Will she always be exhausted after using her healing power?"

RING RING

Breanna quickly grabbed the phone; she didn't want the girls disturbed.

"Hello?"

"Hi Mom, can I talk to Faith?"

"Not right now Brian, she is sleeping. She...she took fifty years off of me and I haven't felt this good in a very long time. Thank you for sending the information to her."

"I'm glad it worked, I wasn't sure you would let her try."

"I couldn't say no to her. You've seen those puppy dog eyes of hers...could you say no to her?"

"Nope. You do realize when you get back home, I want to get new x-rays and do a bone density test again."

Breanna mumbled profanities under her breath, but Brian heard some of it. "MOTHER!"

Joyce burst out laughing and decided that discretion was the better part of valor and went into the kitchen to give her guest some privacy.

The kittens came flying out of a cupboard and stopped in front of Joyce.

HISSS! HISSSS!

<Relax Aphro, you too Athie.> Joyce leaned down and patted both kittens on the head.

PURRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR.

Breanna joined them and put Aphro on her lap and placed Athie on the table in front of Joyce. Breanna looked thoughtful for a moment and then said, "Joyce, I would ask a favor of ye."

"Would ye keep an eye on me darling Faith after I leave?"

"Would ye also visit me at home from time to time. Keep me up to date on the girls?"

"Thank you. Could the young witchling do a spell to allow you to enjoy the feast with us today?"

"This Slayer business it taking its toll on all of them. They are all so young to be taking on the responsibility of saving the world so often. They all do so much for ungrateful people, and for people who know nothing about the things that go bump in the night."

"It couldn't have been easy for you, just watching and waiting. But now with me darling Faith's healing ability, things may be a little easier for all concerned. But she will need to learn to recognize when she has done enough. She would use every ounce of her compassion and healing ability to help others, even if it hurts her."

"There be no time like the present, what is his phone number?"

Breanna called Giles and when he answered she asked that he come over to speak to her and Joyce as soon as possible.

"Are the girls alright?" A worried Giles asked.

"Yes Rupert, they are. Faith needed a nap after healing me."

"Healing? Are you alright Breanna?"

"Yes Rupert, Faith healed all me aches and pains and it took a lot out of her. That's what we need to speak to you about. Will ye come over now?"

"On my way Breanna. See you soon and I wouldn't say no to a steaming cup of Earl Grey... or that Irish blend you have."

"It will be steeping when ye arrive."

UPSTAIRS

Faith was mumbling in her sleep. "B...my B."

Buffy heard Faith and opened her eyes. She hugged the warm body on top of her waiting for Faith to open her eyes. When she did, Buffy leaned forward. "My Faith." Buffy kissed Faith tenderly.

"How do you feel now Faith? I can hand you the box the sword is in if you need it."

"Feeling pretty good right now B," Faith said as she snuggled down into her lover. Faith grinned and her eyebrows wiggled.

*Oh oh, she's up to something.* Buffy pulled back a little and was about to ask what Faith was up to when the brunette came forward and claimed the blonde girls lips in a very passionate kiss.

Faith started sending every lustful thoughts, emotions and fantasies through their Slayer Bond and felt Buffy's desire increase remarkably.

*Oh god, gotta do the same for her.* Buffy tried concentrating on sending the same type of images to her girlfriend but it was difficult when she was so busy enjoying what Faith was sending.

When Faith started receiving the mental pics that Buffy was sending, she moaned loudly into the never-ending kiss. Slipping her still clothed leg between Buffy's, she started a slow riding motion that was enjoyed by both young women. Soon their moans got loud, and they were rocking the bed.

"Faithhhhh...so close..."

"Beeeeeeee...with ya, one more..."

Both girls sent the same mental pic; seeing each other between their legs with love juices dripping off their lips, caused them to go crashing over the edge together.

"FAITHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!"

"BEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!"

The only sound in the bedroom was two Slayers trying desperately to suck air into their overtaxed lungs. Wheezing, panting and gasping, Faith rolled over onto her back and brought her lover into her arms. When both girls could breath normally again, they both started to say;

"Faith I promise..." "B, I promise..." They laughed and Faith said, "Go ahead B."

"Well I was just gonna say, I will try my hardest to make every single one of those fantasies of yours come true." Buffy grinned; she was looking forward to doing just that.

"Me too B, I wanna make all your dreams come true. This bond thingee we have, it's great over distance, but even better when we are together. I mean, we still have all our clothes on...and I'm totally satisfied...till later of course."

"Me too, totally...till later." Buffy giggled and Faith smiled.

"I hate to say it B, but we probably should get showered and changed. I need to make a couple of sketches before everyone arrives."

"For Spike and Wesley, right?"

"Yeah B, I didn't know they would be here, so I didn't do one for them. I hope they won't be too disappointed at only getting pencil sketches. I don't have all that great stuff from the studio at Breanna's home."

"Do you have one for me?" Buffy asked shyly.

"Of course B, but since they are all in the trunk of Angel's car...you have to wait like everyone else. I uh...hope you'll like it B."

"Don't like waiting Faith, you know that."

"Patience is a virtue." Faith smirked at her blonde counterpart.

"God grant me patience...and I want it right now!" Buffy pouted.

"No fair, pouting B. Go take a shower and let me get started on the sketches and then I will take a shower."

"Don't you wanna scrub my back baby?" Buffy asked in a husky voice, leaving no doubt whatsoever what was on her mind as she slowly stripped.

"You...you don't play fair B." Faith licked her suddenly dry lips.

"And you do?" Buffy pulled Faith's top over her head and breathed heavily on the dark girls nipples causing them to harden instantly.

"Oh god, fuck me B."

"Kinda what I had in mind Faith."

Faith tossed the pencil in her hand on the bed, stripped quickly and followed her girlfriend into the bathroom. Once inside, Buffy found two shower puffs and tossed one to Faith. Faith caught it while turned on the shower; she wriggled her eyebrows at Buffy and ran her puff over her own breasts. Her dark nipples rose up as Faith slowly rubbed the puff over and around both nipples. The carnal sounds coming out of Faith drove Buffy to action.

"MINE!!!!" Buffy shoved Faith back into the shower and literally attacked the nipples she just knew were begging to be sucked.

Faith couldn't contain her primal side any longer. "GROWLLLL, B."

She shoved her girlfriend up against the wall in the shower and started nipping along Buffy's neck. Both girls were fully primal and nothing existed for either except each other and their demanding needs. Bouncing off the shower walls went unnoticed by the Slayers as they ravaged each other until both screamed out in pleasure.

Both girls were sitting on the floor with their backs against opposite walls in the shower. Both were breathing heavily.

"Holy shit B! I'm thinking that turning our 'Horny Slayer' lose in the shower is a bad thing. My bruises have bruises."

Buffy grinned, "Me too Faith...but it was worth it. You're just so...so...MINE"

"YURS B." Faith stood up and reached out to help Buffy to stand up. So we make a pact...no Horny Slayer in the shower...for that we need to start on the floor."

Buffy raised her eyebrows, "The floor? Why not the bed?"

"No where to fall to B." Faith laughed.

"Good point Faith. Now make with healing mojo. Although, the drain pattern on your ass is interesting." Buffy gently ran her hands over Faith's ass.

Faith moaned. "I don't know if I should use the healing B. I mean we did kind of do this to ourselves and I don't want the PTB"S thinking I would abuse this gift. But I will heal you." Faith placed her hands on the tile indentations on Buffy's back and butt. Buffy leaned into Faith and smiled as her lover gently traced the imbedded line out.

"Faith, please heal yourself too. I want you to be able to enjoy sitting down to eat. Besides, you wanted to make sketches for Wes and Spike and you can't do that standing up." Buffy kissed her dark slayer softly whispering, "Do it for me Faith...please."

"You...pant, don't play fair B." Faith was lost in the sensations created by Buffy's soft lips.

"And you do?" Buffy giggled. Using her hands, she placed Faith's hands on Faith's butt and slowly ran then over the indents. Faith acquiesced and healed herself. "Faith, we still haven't opened our presents and I did get you something I hope you will wear today."

"What?" Faith's grin was childlike and sexy at the same time.

"Hmmm...what say we throw the clothes we had on and head downstairs to find out."

1:30pm IN THE LIVING ROOM

Giles was let in when he rung the doorbell. "Welcome Rupert," Joyce and Breanna said together. Breanna took his coat and asked him to go to the kitchen.

Breanna handed him a large cup of her special Irish Blend tea and Giles sipped it and sighed contentedly. "Now, what has Faith done to start your worrying about her?"

"She healed all me aches and pains, but it exhausted her. I worry that she will always put others first. Being tired out is not something I want for her. Can ye not try..."

"Faith is a stubborn young woman Breanna. And helping people is what she does best...even if we all didn't see that before. I can try to get her to take it easy, but...if someone she cares about is hurt...nothing will stop her from helping. Ummm...Joyce?"

"Will Faith develop stamina in using this new ability?"

"Can she...train herself to recognize when to stop?" Giles looked to Joyce.

<Probably, but she would ignore the warning signs when helping someone. She is so happy to be able to help that she just goes all out.>

"I know for a fact, she won't listen. I knew she was tired before she finished helping me. I tried to tell her that later would be fine, but she begged me to allow her to continue. And tell me Rupert, if you look into those deep brown eyes...can you refuse her anything?"

"Point taken Breanna. I guess we will all have to keep an eye on Faith and make sure that sword is always handy for when she needs it. AHHHHHHHH! Giles looked down and saw a black kitten swatting his ankle.

"Aphro, behave!" Breanna reached down to pick up the kitten. "Athie, where be ye?" A white kitten came running. "Meow."

Giles did a double take when seeing the kittens. "You gave them kittens?"

"It's fine Joyce, it just startled me. I bet Faith's face lit up."

"Aye, that it did and so did Buffy's. I think maybe I should go check on me darling Faith. The girls still have oodles of presents to open before everyone shows up."

KNOCK KNOCK

Breanna got up and went to answer the door. "Yes?"

"UPS Delivery for one Faith Winters."

"The art supplies I sent for her are here. Just a minute young man. Rupert?"

Giles came out and saw several boxes. He picked up two and carried them into the living room while Breanna signed for them. Breanna tipped the man generously and thanked him for working on Christmas day." Giles grabbed the large box, but it was too heavy. The deliveryman came back with the dolly and helped him bring it in. Giles pulled out a twenty and the man refused saying, "It's not needed, enjoy the day."

"Art supplies Breanna?"

"Yes Rupert, this is all the supplies that were in the art studio in my home. I promised myself that I would give all of it to Faith. Ye haven't seen her talent yet. She is magnificent."

"I'll take your word for it."

"Ye all will see, later today when Angel brings the those masterpieces she did while in my home. Rupert, by chance...do ye have Angels phone number?"

"Yes, hang on. He dialed and handed Breanna the phone.

"Hello?"

"Angel dear boy, are ye busy?"

"No, what's up? Is Faith okay?"

"She is taking a nap. Would ye come over here now?"

"Sure."

"Don't forget the artwork in the trunk of your car."

"I won't, see you soon Breanna. Bye."

"Bye."

Angel arrived fifteen minutes later. He brought in the tubes that held the artwork and placed them in the corner beside the tree. He saw the boxes and looked to Breanna for an explanation.

"That is all the stuff from the studio Angel. Would ye help Rupert put it down in the basement? Joyce has given permission for us to set up a studio for me darling Faith."

Angel smiled and picked up the large box as if it weighed next to nothing. Giles grabbed the other two boxes and followed Angel down into the basement. They carefully opened the boxes and Joyce and Breanna directed them on where to put everything. The large easel was placed just beside the window. Breanna asked Joyce where dust rags were. She grabbed a couple and started to clean the old metal shelving unit that was in the corner. When she finished, Angel put the paints and brushes on the middle shelf. Rupert placed the sketchpads and other paper on the top shelf. The pencils, pencil crayons, markers, special calligraphy sets and pastels/chalks were placed on the bottom shelf. Everyone stood back and admired the studio that was taking shape before their eyes.

"Me darling Faith will love this. Thank you gentlemen for your help. Angel, how does a cup of hot chocolate sound to you? And of course more tea for you Rupert."

"Chocolate? Gimme, and make one for Faith too...if she comes down soon. Actually I need to speak to her."

"What about?" Breanna asked.

"Well I have a meeting with the PTB's at three thirty and I wanted her along as a witness. I intend on asking for a favor from them."

"What favor Angel?" Giles asked.

"Sorry Giles, I can't discuss it. Maybe I shouldn't bother Faith."

"She will go with you to the ends of the earth and beyond, you know that Angel and if she finds out that you wanted her with you and didn't ask...I wouldn't want to be in your shoes boyo."

Angel's face went paler than it usually was. "Okay if she comes downstairs before I have to leave I will ask her.

IN THE KITCHEN

Angel sat down at the table to enjoy his hot chocolate. Giles and Breanna enjoyed their pot of Earl Grey tea.

2:30 pm

Faith and Buffy came back downstairs to join Breanna and Joyce.

"How do you feel dearheart?"

"Great Gran. Hey Gramps, you're here early."

"Well, I uh..."

"Spit it out Gramps, while one of us is still young."

Angel laughed, "I have a meeting with the PTB's to ask a favor and I need a witness to whatever deal is made. Will you come with me?"

"Yes. When is this meeting and what are you gonna ask for?"

"The meeting is in one hour and I can't tell you what I'm asking for...at least not yet."

"These PTB's are the ones who regularly try to end the world right?" Buffy was looking decidedly unimpressed.

"B, they usually give us something to go on that Red and G-Man figure out in time for us to win the battle. They gave me healing powers and most importantly...they gave us a second chance."

Buffy looked at Angel who correctly interpreted the look to mean, if anything happens to her...you're dust.

"Well since you have an hour before you go...there are a lot of presents still under the tree girls," Breanna pointed to the gifts and smiled.

Buffy ran over and grabbed one box and gave it to Faith. Faith dug through the pile and pulled out a box the same size and handed it to Buffy. Both girls found identical leather outfits. Buffy had bought white leather pants and vest along with a black silk blouse. Faith had bought black leather pants and vest with a white silk blouse. Both girls laughed and held up their new outfits.

"Is leather like some kind of Slayer outfit?" Breanna asked.

"Nope, it's a Faith outfit." Buffy said licking her lips as she pictured Faith in her new outfit.

"Nope, it's a B thingee." Faith laughed and pulled her girlfriend in for a thank you kiss.

Angel sat down on the large chair and just watched as the Slayers ripped open a multitude of gifts. When Faith opened the large box from Breanna, she screamed: "Gran! You got me a Playstation 2."

"If you keep looking under that tree, ye might find something to put into that infernal contraption.

Faith dove for the tree and was tossing presents over her shoulder, B's, B's, B's, B's, mine, oops hey that's the right size. Faith ripped the paper off and found a kick ass kung fu game.

Buffy was busy opening all the ones that Faith had tossed to her. "OOOOOOOOO Faith, it beautiful."

"HUH? Which one ya got there B?" Suddenly Faith found herself with a lapful of happy Buffy. *Note to self...buy more of whatever it is.*

Buffy almost swallowed her fellow slayers' tongue when she pulled her into her arms and kissed her.

"You got the best 'thank you' in the world B. So tell me which gift you're so happy about and I will buy one every day of our lives together."

"This bracelet is gorgeous Faith but you don't have to buy me gifts...I have everything I want and need...YOU." Buffy pulled Faith in for a hug. She felt Faith relax and through their bond she felt something she never thought would come from Faith... contentment. *Hmmm, my big bad tough girl likes to be held. Of course she does dummy, she never had simple affection when she was growing up. Well I'm gonna make sure I hold her a million times a day. Damn! Willow it is setting in.*

"You okay there B? Ya kind of zoned out there?" Faith's concern was easily recognizable in her voice.

"I'm fine Faith." Buffy turned and pointed to the half mountain of gifts still surrounding the tree. They grinned at each other and dived for the pile. Faith came up with two gifts for Breanna, one for B and one for herself. Buffy came out with one for Breanna, two for Angel, two for herself and one for Faith.

Breanna opened the larger box first and found the family crest engraved on piece of metal on a piece of redwood. "Where did ye find this Buffy?"

"In an antique store Breanna, I noticed that it said "The Liam Family Crest." It is the right one isn't it? I mean it looks like the sweater you gave Faith."

"It is our family's crest Buffy, and I thank ye for it." Breanna came over and hugged the smaller slayer.

Angel opened the heavier of the two packages he had been handed. Inside he found a ten-pound box of Laura Secord Gold Premium Chocolates. "GD! you have to help me with these...and everyone else too of course." Angel set the box down on the table and gave his undivided attention to the paper showing what each chocolate was. "What's Marzipan?"

"It's something like coconut...only sweeter," Faith answered. Faith dug around under the tree and came up with a dozen, what looked to be fancy wrapped straws and handed them to Angel. "Those should jump start your...," Faith broke off and stared off into space for a moment.

<Oh Shit!> Joyce recognized the epiphany that Faith just had.

"Gramps, if your heart were beating...you would be alive and if you were alive, you wouldn't be a vampire. Could it really be that easy?" Faith raised her hand to Angel's chest.

<Faith...NO!>

There was a blinding flash of light that knocked everyone but Joyce into unconsciousness. It collapsed into three columns of light.

{This thought must be removed from her mind immediately.}

{{And further it should be locked away until the time is right.}}

{{{All must forget the last ten minutes.}}}

As the second blinding flash of light disappeared everyone shook their heads and looked around.

"What the fuck happened?" Faith growled.

"OOOOO, what was that?" Buffy whispered still holding her head.

"Holy Mother of Christ!" Breanna exclaimed.

Angel shook his head again to get rid of his game face.

Seconds later everyone went back to exactly what they were doing before the forgotten flash of light.

Joyce breathed a sigh of relief.

"Oh GD?"

"Yeah Gramps?"

"We have a special surprise for you...in the basement. Uhhh, Breanna arranged for the stuff to get here, Giles and I put it down there, and Joyce told us where to find other necessary items." Angel took Faith's hand and led her down to the basement.

Faith blinked several times, not believing what she was seeing. "Gran, it looks like the stuff from your studio."

"It is dearheart. I had it send to you because I know you will make use of it. You're the artist of the family in this generation."

Breanna suddenly found herself in a bear hug that was returned properly.

"Shit! What time is it?"

"It's about three o'clock, why Faith?" Buffy reached out for her girlfriend's hand.

"I have to do two more pictures...that I didn't get done upstairs." Faith gave Buffy the evil eye and Buffy smiled, whistled and turned away. "Why don't the rest of you go back upstairs and open more gifts. Gramps come and get me when you're ready to leave for that appointment."

"Okay GD," Angel led everyone upstairs quietly saying; "Artist at work...do not disturb."

Buffy turned and snuck under Angel's arm and ran over to Faith. She pulled the surprised girl into her arms and kissed her as passionately as she could.

When she could breathe properly, Faith smiled at her blonde counterpart. "What was that for B?"

"Me," Buffy leaned forward and kissed Faith again. "And before you ask, that one was you." Buffy skipped back upstairs laughing all the way.

Chapter Eighteen

3:20 PM

Buffy grabbed Faith's new outfit and headed downstairs to Faith's studio. She saw a rolled up drawing on the chair. She took a good look at the portrait that Faith was putting the final touches on. Wesley was shown in triplicate. The left side was the pompas ass that first came to Sunnydale so long ago. The suit and Eton tie was masterfully shaded. The middle one showed a man realizing that there will always be evil. His hair was a little thinner, a little grayer at the temples showing the changes occurring in the Watcher. The sadness in the eyes was accompanied by a single tear trying it's damdest not to fall. The right side showed Wes as he is now, confident that he had overcome his fears and ready and willing to fight 'the good fight come hell or high water.'

*WOW! She really is talented.* "That's amazing Faith," Buffy gushed to her girlfriend.

"Ya really think so B?" Faith gave her a shy smile; one that Buffy had fallen in love with.

"Absolutely positive. I brought your clothes; you and Angel have to leave in about ten minutes. I'd better go back up stairs cause seeing you strip...I can guarantee you wouldn't be leaving any time soon," Buffy giggled and ran back up the stairs.

"Thanks B," Faith knew the other Slayer had heard her. She quickly changed into the fine leather outfit Buffy had bought for her. She wasn't surprised to find it fit like a second skin; accentuating all her luscious curves. Faith rolled up the second masterpiece she had just finished and put them into tubes. She marked a W and a S on the tube caps. Rushing upstairs, she placed the gifts with the others in the far corner behind the tree.

Buffy smiled at her gorgeous lover as she leaned over, putting the tubes away and warning everyone to stay out of there till she and Gramps got back.

*Nice ass baby, can't wait to play with it some more.* Buffy shook her head, grinned and sent that picture to Faith through their bond.

Faith swallowed hard and gave Buffy a stern look while mouthing the works, 'later'.

Angel held out his hand, Faith took it and asked; "Can we go now Gramps?"

The souled vampire and Slayer/Healer started to fade. "Apparently so GD."

"Be careful Faith," Buffy said just loud enough for Faith to hear as she vanished.

DING DONG

Buffy answered the door and let Willow in and heard a muffled

"Hold on luv," as a body with its head covered came running up to join them.

"Come in Spike, you too Willow. As Buffy was about to close the door she heard the dying Chrysler that Xander drove come around the corner. She waited for Anya and Xander and then closed the door.

Angel and Faith disappeared in a swirling mist and reappeared in a white room. "Whoa, what a ride."

"Okay, now what?"

"I want to offer them time added to my redemption path."

"What the hell for?"

"To make a mutual friend happy."

"Can they do that?

"Yes they can do that. Will you help me to convince them?"

"Of course." Faith's slayer senses went nuts; she took a fighting stance immediately followed by Angel.

"That won't be necessary young mortal. We have heard the vampire's request and would know your reasons."

"She deserves to be happy after all she has been through," Angel said softly.

Faith caught on to what Angel was asking for and she answered, "She helps everyone else be happy, don't cha think it's about time someone gave her a little happiness?" Faith stated strongly.

"GD, how did you know what I was asking for?"

"You don't have a lot of female friends Gramps. If anything were wrong with Cordy, Fred or Illya you would be halfway back to LA by now. B and I are fine, that just leaves Willow and we both know only Tara would bring her the happiness she so deserves."

The light beings flickered and suddenly Tara appeared standing between Angel and Faith.

"Scuse me, but I must demand...uh...strongly request that if Gramps need me, really needs me, at any time...send me immediately."

"What she said."

<As you wish young healer, vampire.> Looking at Angel, the light spoke;

Faith bowed her head.

"What did you offer them GD?"

"My Slaying power."

"GD! You love Slaying."

"Well all I could offer was that or my healing ability and I can help more people with the healing. Besides, it's for Red. But they said no, that all my abilities would be needed in the future."

"Yo Ghosties?" Faith addressed the light beings.

<Yes?>

"Since you picked Angel and I up from our living room, can I assume that you could place us all back in a different room?"

"Cool, then put us back in my bedroom please."

"Um, excuse me? Angel...Faith, what's going on? What is this place?"

The shafts of light lightly passed over Tara, helping to ease the panicked young woman.

Angel immediately took off his leather duster and handed it to the naked young woman.

*Oh shit, we have a lot of explaining to do.* Faith smiled at the confused blonde and took a deep breath. She did her level best to fill Tara in on just what had happened since her death.

"The pr...price is ttt...tooo high," Tara stammered.

"No it isn't Blondie, only the best for Red and that's you."

"Are you angry at us for bringing you back Tara?" Angel had only now realized that she should have been given the choice of whether she wanted to come back or not.

"Nnno, but Angel..."

"But nothing Tara, we wanted to do this for Willow. We owe her so much."

The mist swirled again and they found themselves back in Faith's bedroom. Angel immediately volunteered to go downstairs to tell Willow to go see Faith to receive her Christmas present from the both of them. He would remain downstairs to fill everyone else in on what had occurred.

"Good idea Gramps, give Blondie here a chance to get dressed first though k?"

"Of course," Angel smiled at both women and left.

"Okay Blondie," Faith went over to her dresser and pulled out a pair of black jeans and then went over to the closet and grabbed a light blue turtleneck. She also suggested that Tara 'alakazam' herself some undergarments first.

Tara went into the bathroom to get dressed.

Faith heard a soft knock and said, "Come in Red,"

Willow walked in and shook her head, a scent...one she hadn't smelt in a long time. *I'm losing it.*

Faith smiled at the bewildered redhead. "You're not imagining it Red. "Blondie, come out now."

Tara stepped out of the bathroom and Willow immediately fainted. Faith caught her and gently laid her down on her bed. She motioned Tara over and whispered as she left, "Take all the time you need...there is a silence spell on this room courtesy of Red," Faith smirked and walked out.

DOWNSTAIRS

"Angel what the hell is going on up there?" Buffy tried to get past him on the bottom stair.

"The PTB's granted our favor Buffy...Faith and I brought back Tara...for Willow."

"YOU WHAT?" Buffy said incredulously.

"That's the only way she could be happy and you want her to be happy right Buffy?"

"Yeah, but..."

"But what, the deal was made, accepted and it's done."

"It was for the best reason B," Faith came down the stairs, walked around Angel and brought the young blonde into her arms and kissed her passionately.

RING RING

Faith answered the phone; "Hello?"

"Did you enjoy your surprise party yesterday Faith," Wesley asked. Faith could hear the traffic in the background and knew Wes would soon join all her friends shortly.

"I had a blast Wes, thank you and I'm really sorry about the kick ya know?"

"Totally forgotten I assure you. I would consider it the best Christmas present in the world if you could get rid of this blasted hangover when I get there. BLOODY HELL! get in your own lane and do stop honking."

"Poor Wes, yes I can take care of that little problem as soon as you get here." Faith smiled, but did feel a little sorry for the hung over Englishman. "See you soon, everyone else is here and we have a surprise."

"Dare I ask?"

"Not gonna tell ya, trust me Wes...you gotta see this for yourself. Gas pedal is on the right, bye."

"Wes will be...owwwww, here soon. Hey Athey what was that for?" Faith leaned down to pick up her girlfriend's kitten. She saw that Buffy had picked up Aphro and walking over to her. They exchanged kittens and a loud stereophonic purr was heard by all.

DING DONG

Breanna answered the door and let Wesley in. He placed gifts under the tree, handed his overcoat to Angel and came into the living room to join everyone.

Faith walked swiftly over to Wes and gently placed her hands on both temples. Her eyes flashed silver for a moment and Wes breathed a sigh of relief. "Thank you Faith."

"No problem Wes, welcome back to the land of the living."

Looking around, Wes asked, "Should I have picked up Willow?"

"She's upstairs with her present," Faith giggled and mumbled under breath loud enough for Buffy and Angel to hear; "Good thing that silence thingee is still there." Buffy smiled and Angel just shook his head.

Wesley looked to Giles for an explanation that would make sense.

"It seems that Faith and Angel have brought back Tara...for Willow of course. The Powers That Be made some kind of deal, one which I don't have any detailed knowledge...yet." He looked pointedly at Faith who just shrugged.

Wesley's jaw dropped, "They did what?"

"Brought me back Mr. Price," Tara came downstairs hand in hand with a smiling Willow.

"Then all I can say is, welcome back."

This sentiment was expressed by all present.

Willow dragged Tara over to Breanna. "Baby, this is Breanna ...kind of Faith's grandmother."

Breanna stood up and hugged the startled young woman. Welcome to this fine family."

"Th...thank yyy…you M'am."

"None of that now missy, call me Breanna or Bre."

"Alright Breanna. Faith's grandmother?"

Breanna patted the couch beside her and both Wicca's sat down. Willow knew the story but loved listening to Breanna speak.

"Where did Faith go?" Buffy wondered out loud.

Joyce appeared behind Faith, who was getting used to the woman just appearing so she didn't need to be peeled off the ceiling.

She watched as Faith quickly sketched the most angelic looking portrait she had ever seen. Tara was nude, but the peaceful continence of features and the almost etheral glow was blinding in its magnificence.

"It's hard to show the...glow. It's all around you too Joyce. But it's fading from Tara. I wanna try to show it but..."

"What's mine is yours Joyce."

Joyce smirked at Faith.

Faith realized what Joyce was saying without saying and she blushed deeply. "B," she whispered.

Joyce just smiled and nodded.

Faith looked off in the distance for a minute. "Joyce can we have a very serious two minute conversation that will go no further?"

"When the time is right...will I be the one to restore Gramps total humanity?"

Joyce could have been knocked over with a feather.

"Yes, I do remember," Faith said by way of explanation.

Joyce took a deep breath, <When the time is right...it will be you to restore Angel to full human. You will know when the time comes, so don't try to do it again until then...promise me Faith. And you can't tell him or anyone else.>

Faith used the universal motion of zipping her lips and giving the thumbs up. "You have no idea how much I'm looking forward to that day Joyce. I figure, it won't happen until after he serves out the time in the other place. Since that is twenty-five years away, I guess that future with Buffy you showed me really is gonna happen."

Faith grinned, grabbed the portrait and stuffed it into a tube and followed Joyce back upstairs.

Breanna laughed, "I should have known you would be down there. Did ye make a masterpiece for Tara?"

"Yeah Gran, I did."

"So I guess I know where to look for you whenever you disappear huh Faith?" Buffy hugged her girlfriend.

"Sorry B, but I had something I had to do."

Breanna suggested that all sit down and allow Faith to hand out her masterpieces to everyone.

People moved faster than kids playing musical chairs. Faith giggled and moved over to the corner and passed out all the tubes saying, "Wait till I tell you to open them please."

"Uhhh, Red...you first, I made yours first because you helped me so much and I wanted to do something unique for you and then the idea snowballed and I did one for everyone."

Willow blushed and ripped the bright paper off and took the tube cap off. She dumped the rolled up paper into her hand and unrolled it. "OH GODDESS! Faith this is...it's..." She showed everyone.

"Wow! Faith, that's amazing. I can't wait to open mine," Buffy gushed.

A chorus of 'me next' was heard and Faith asked Buffy to open hers next.

Buffy unrolled hers and gasped. "Mom, look at this...it's beautiful." Buffy showed everyone the 'Summers' Women'. Faith had drawn Joyce at the top, one hand on each of her daughter's shoulders and had Buffy in the lower left hand corner and Dawn in the opposite one.

"You're next Gran."

Breanna opened hers and rushed over to hug her favorite granddaughter. "Dearheart, this is the most precious thing next to you that I have ever received. Thank you." The falling tears were ignored as the older woman kissed Faith on the cheek and hugged her again.

*I definitely like this.* Faith thought as she hugged Breanna back as if it was the most natural thing in the world…and it was as far as Faith was concerned.

"Your turn Gramps."

Angel smiled and opened his. When he saw himself, his sister and Faith, one blood tear rolled down his cheek. Faith gently wiped it away. "Xander, can you make me a frame for this?"

Xander smiled, "Frames for everyone...just make a list of the sizes and who they're for and I will get started on them in a few days."

"G-Man, you're next."

Giles opened his and unrolled it. "I say Faith, this is marvelous. You truly are very talented...thank you." Remembering the look of joy Faith gets when hugged, he set his picture down and pulled the surprised girl into his arms. "You are a remarkable young woman," he said softly.

Xander laughed, "Hey Faith, you look kind of cute when you blush."

Faith scowled at him, but before she could say or do anything, Anya smacked the back of his head. "It's not nice or healthy to embarrass a slayer."

"OWWWW! K...K...I get it," Xander grinned and stuck out his hand by way of apology and was gratified to find Faith take it and not squeeze hard enough to break it.

"Come on luv, the rest of us want to see ours too," Spike said.

Faith turned around and saw that Spike, Wes, Xander, Anya and Tara were still holding their tubes and looking at her expectantly.

"Go ahead Spike, you too Wes. Tara if you wouldn't mind waiting a few more minutes..."

"Of course Faith. Is this what you disappeared to do?"

"Yup, just so ya know, I didn't have a lot of time to do it right and you might be embarrassed by it...but that wasn't my intention, I swear. You might wanna take Red into the kitchen and check it out privately."

By now both Spike and Wes had opened their tubes. "Bloody Hell Slayer this is great. I will hang it over my mantle in me crypt with pride. Thank you." He also knew of Faith's affection for hugs, but was smart enough to catch Buffy's eye first to ask permission. She nodded. Spike hugged the dark slayer tightly for about five seconds and let go.

"Relax Spike, B is not gonna go slayer on your ass...it's Christmas."

Wesley bided his time for the hug fest. "This is bloody marvelous Faith. A healer and an artist, you have certainly turned into a fine talented and caring person. Although I don't think I like your first impression of me," he pouted playfully.

"Let us see Wesley," Giles asked.

He showed his picture all around and was greeted with gleeful laughter, which he took good-naturedly.

"You're up next Xanman."

Xander ripped into and unrolled his picture. Anya whistled and Xander's mouth dropped open. "This is unreal Faith, it's looks exactly like the dream home I want to build for Anya and me."

"It's beautiful Faith, thank you." The former vengeance demon smiled and kissed Xander.

Tara and Willow headed out to the kitchen.

<I'll be back later.> Joyce vanished, there was no sense in sticking around, since she couldn't enjoy the meal.

IN THE KITCHEN

Tara's hands were shaking so much that Willow offered to help her unwrap it. But it was Tara who dumped it out and unrolled it. "Oh goddess..."

"Lemme see baby," Willow turned it so she could see it. "Oh wow! It makes you look like an angel Tara. She really did something magical without magic."

Tara rolled it back up and she and Willow rejoined their friends.

"Faith, is th…that, how you saw mm...me?"

"Uh, yeah. Ya don't hate it or me do ya?"

"No Faith, I don't. It very powerful and I love it, but I think Willow loves it even more." She grinned and Faith laughed.

"Well then, what say we open the rest of these gifts before dinner gets here," Buffy said.

Flying paper, oooh's and awww's came from everywhere in the room as people ripped open a multitude of brightly wrapped gifts. When everyone was finished, Willow handed out festive garbage bags, muttered a few unintelligible words and voila, clean living room.

"Nicely done Red, thanks." Faith had Buffy sitting on her lap and was just enjoying the warm feelings in the room and on her legs. *Damn, B sure is hot.*

~so are you baby. Behave; we have to get through dinner and the rest of the evening. But I promise you, when we get to bed...~

Faith gulped and sent several naughty pics through their bond and Buffy sucked in a breath and got off of Faith's lap. Staying there was not possible. She wanted to just consume her lover and didn't think Faith or anyone would want that right now...well she was sure Faith wouldn't mind.

DING DONG

*Saved by the bell.* Buffy hollered, "I'll get it."

Several uniformed men pushed in trolley carts loaded down with food. Buffy showed them the dining room and in a few minutes the table had everything on it needed for a delicious meal.

Faith reached out to sign the bill before Buffy could. "Don't sweat it B, rich remember?" Faith included a healthy tip and the men left saying they would be back on the twenty-seventh to pick up the trays, plates and other stuff.

Faith whispered to Buffy and she nodded. They both took one of Giles hands and led him to the head of the table and sat him down. "Everyone else grab a seat," Faith said whilst sitting herself down on Giles left side with Buffy right beside her.

Both Buffy and Faith were sending erotic thoughts and pictures to each other through their bond. Trying to see who would break first. This little game hadn't escaped Willow's attention. She quickly mumbled a few words, the ones to calm the Slayers down a bit. Both girls reacted swiftly.

"WILLOW!" Buffy hollered.

"RED!" Faith bellowed.

"Eat now...play later," Willow said as if talking to misbehaving children.

Faith immediately turned and yelled, "Gran, you been telling tales already?"

Willow looked at Faith, then Breanna and finally at a beet red Buffy. "Not yet she hasn't." She smirked at Faith, "Do tell Breanna...do tell."

"Well Witchling, those would be the exact words I used at lunch time and most likely for the same reason." Breanna gave a huge belly laugh as both Slayers were wondering if they would fit under the table.

Faith and Buffy turned to each other grinning evilly.

*Oh oh, someone's gonna get it.* Spike was enjoying the little drama unfolding around him.

*Faith's up to something, better be ready to move quick.* Angel thought Willow was the only target but was soon made to see the error of his judgment.

Almost before Faith's hand uncurled, hurling the handful of mashed potatoes she had scooped up, Breanna felt it land on her forehead. She heard Willow's squawk about the same time and just knew that the young witchling had been nailed by the blonde Slayer.

Giles immediately grabbed Breanna's hand, but before they could make a somewhat clean getaway, he felt a carrot ping rather painfully off his chin. He saw Faith grinning and holding the bowl of sliced carrots in one hand and carrot slices between each finger. She had perfect accuracy as she nailed Xander, Anya, Wes, and Willow with one toss. *Cool...ninja throwing carrots.*

Unfortunately for Wesley, Willow's aim was off and he found himself the proud owner of a dressing covered tie at the same time he felt a piece of carrot slide inside his shirt. Never one to back away from a challenge he made a quick grab for one of the extra large drumsticks and ripped it off. Locating the redhead he swung and missed. He had however managed to sideswipe the dark Slayer. Faith shook her head, grabbed Wes around the back of the head and shoved him, face first, into the plum pudding. Tara was watching and wondering if she had stepped into some kind of reality/game show. She felt something wet run down her back and saw that Spike had doused her with her own iced tea. She grabbed the cranberry sauced and dumped the contents down the front of the blonde vampire's pants. Suddenly Spike was doing a comical little dance.

Anya dumped the bowl of crème corn on Xander's head, in retaliation for his dumping wine down her top. Giles had picked up several chunks of carrots and hurled them back at the dark Slayer. Breanna grabbed the other drumstick and lambasted Spike who was sneaking up to try to dump the other half of bottle of wine on her.

While this was going on; Angel had started eating and had no intention of stopping...until he felt a roll bounce off his head. He grabbed a breadstick and broke it over Willow's head. Then he grabbed the platter of cookies and flew into the kitchen.

15 MINUTES LATER

Angel stuck his head out of the kitchen, "Is it safe to come out now?"

"SIC EM!" Faith yelled.

All manner of food, both solid and liquid flew at Angel...some of which did land. Angel used his finger to remove a piece of Blueberry pie and shoved into his mouth. "Needs..." *Shut up dummy.* Faith got behind him and opened the fridge before he could move. She tossed a can of RediWhip to Buffy and the two Slayers had Angel looking like Santa Claus in no time.

Faith had covered his head, while Buffy gave him white eyebrows, mustache and beard, which was dripping onto the front of his formerly immaculate suit.

Breanna began immediately taking pictures of everyone and the disaster that was the dining room. The Summer's home had never heard so much laughter.

<How was dinner?...What in god's name happened here?> Joyce stood around taking in what used to be her clean dining room.

Both Buffy and Faith pointed to Willow and Breanna, "They started it."

"OOOO liar, liar pants on fire...you started it Faith." Willow ducked behind Tara only peaking over her shoulder to see if Faith was gonna laugh or beat her ass.

"Gonna get ya Red...eventually." Faith gave Willow a stern look that lasted all of about ten seconds before bursting out laughing.

"What you gonna do to Willow Faith," Buffy giggled.

~Not gonna do anything B.~

"What? You're kidding right?"

~Nope...Red will go nuts just wondering, so ya see I don't actually have to do anything.~

Getting only Buffy's half of the conversation was confusing to the redhead, but she knew that Faith would get her back in spades.

"I do love your devious side baby." Buffy kissed her smiling girlfriend before licking up one side of her cheek. "MMMM, just a bit of gravy there Faith, nothing to worry about."

Faith grabbed her playful partner, stuck her tongue out, licked her lips slowly and leaned forward. Buffy froze; she knew Faith would be able to smell her increased arousal. Faith ran her tongue lightly up along her collarbone, continued on up her neck to her jaw. "YUMMMM Christmas dinner...a la Buffy."

Xander's mouth dropped open. *Oh yeah...go girls go.* Anya smacked him upside the head and he snapped out of it.

Breanna placed her hand on Faith's shoulder and pulled her away. "Now girls, no dinner...no desert."

Faith brought out her cell phone and ordered four KFC Festive Mega Meals and seven extra bags of those delectable one-bite brownies. Next she ordered two extra large pizzas, one meat lover's special and one vegee's lover special. She offered both places a fifty-dollar tip to the driver if they could get the food delivered in under one hour.

"Hey Red?"

"Hey what?"

"I don't suppose you have a dry cleaning spell in that noggin of yours?"

"Why didn't I think of that? Okay everyone gather close together please." Willow spoke a lot of weird words and suddenly food went flying from everyone's clothes and body parts. The whirlwind of food was deposited into a green garbage bag. Next Willow chanted a similar spell and all of the food mess in the dining room floated into garbage bags as well.

Faith tapped Tara on the shoulder," I think your girlfriend could use a bit of your strength she looks pretty tired now. Can you help her?"

Tara spoke a few words and Willow picked right up. She came over and using her eyes to ask permission that was granted, she kissed Tara softly on the lips.

"No problem Mrs. Summers," Willow smiled, pointed at the Slayers, shrugged her shoulders and gave Joyce the look of 'what can I do?'

Both girls said in unison; "Willow."

<Faith?...look at me.>

Faith looked everywhere but into Joyce's eyes. "She did Joyce, she...she...and Gran. The next thing I knew Gran was wearing mashed potatoes."

"So was Willow, it was funny...sort of, kind of...uhhh." Buffy realized her mistake but it was too late. *Oh shit...mom's gonna kill us.*

Joyce's eyebrows flew up and she was not going to let the girls see how hard she was working not to crack up.

"And then it kind of, well...you saw," Faith gave her patented cocky grin.

Wesley and Giles looked mortified. "Excellent job of being an adult dear boy," Giles said and both he and Wesley started cleaning their immaculate glasses. "Yes, well...when in Rome and all that."

When the adults, vamps and ghost turned back around the sight that greeted them caused them to quickly head off into the kitchen for a few minutes. Buffy and Faith were lip locked, as were Willow and Tara and Xander and Anya.

IN THE KITCHEN

"They be just blowing off steam, I say let them have fun where ever and when ever they can," Breanna said as she handed healthy shots, of the best Irish whiskey to be had, to everyone. "To those remarkable young people, may they always have each other."

"Hear, hear." Giles clicked his glass with Breanna while Spike and Angel laughed over the Slayers antics.

DING DONG

Angel rushed out to answer the door, figuring the others may still be busy. He was handed several bags of chicken and fixings. He paid for it all, including the fifty-dollar tip the driver mentioned.

"Do you think we can manage to eat this without wearing it this time?" Angel looked pointedly at the Slayers.

"Yes Gramps, I'm starved...no throwing food, this time."

Angel quickly arranged everything on the table and placed the paper plates and plastic utensils at everyone's place setting. "Let's try this again."

"Yo guys...chow time," Faith yelled in the general direction of the kitchen.

DING DONG

"Oops, forgot about the pizza's. I'll get them, you guys finish setting up this stuff."

"F..Faith, are yyyyou trying to ffffeed an army?" Tara looked at the amount of food on the table.

"Hell no Blondie, just two starved Slayers, two vamps who haven't eaten real food in centuries, two limey's with loud intestinal voices growling 'feed me', and you and Red. Damn I may not have ordered enough for all of us."

This time the meal was peaceful; all food went from carton and, bucket to plate and from plate to mouth. Talk of Christmas's past, good company and well...okay food ensured a good time was had by all.

Chapter Nineteen

The Slayers leaned back and sighed deeply. Their hands automatically found each other and they smiled at all their friends and family. Everyone grabbed their bag of chocolate one-bite brownies and headed into the living room. Faith immediately pulled Buffy down onto her lap as she claimed the oversized lazy-boy recliner. The witches sat side by side at one end of the couch and were joined by Breanna. Xander and Anya sat down on the love seat. Angel and Spike grabbed the other chairs and everyone toasted Faith: "Pretty good meal...considering ...Slayer," Spike said.

Using her eyes, Faith told Angel to grab the small package still under the tree. He did and opened it. "You trying to tell me something GD?" Angel laughed and showed that the tape was Blade II.

"Bloody Hell Slayer, you're cut off." He went over to his coat and pulled out "Willie "Wonka and the Chocolate Factory", this is a great movie."

"I wanna see the cool toys Blade gets to play with this time Spike. Hey G-Man can we get some?" Faith gave the Watcher a silly-assed grin.

"The Council?...put out money? Faith, I agree with Spike... you're cut off," Buffy said as she took Faith's glass and set it down on the small table beside the chair.

"What 'cool toys' are you referring to Faith?" Wesley asked.

"Watch and see Wes," Faith grinned.

"Relax Spike, I promise we will watch both...just, mine first." She giggled, gently set Buffy down and popped in the tape in the VCR.

HALF-WAY THROUGH THE MOVIE

"Damn, G-Man...I want one of those."

"Me too Giles, make it two."

Spike and Angel's eyes had almost bugged out of their heads.

"Bollocks...that shit doesn't really exist...does it?" Spike looked a little green. Angel didn't look overly happy either.

Faith jumped up. Stopped the movie, exchanged it with Spike's tape and sat back down.

"Sorry Gramps...Spike, I shouldn't..."

"It's okay GD, it was just...unnerving."

Gene Wilder's face popped up on screen and everyone settled back down to watch.

Faith was absentmindedly rubbing her hand across Buffy's stomach. Buffy leaned in and whispered; "Faith, please stop...I already just wanna throw you over my shoulder and take you upstairs."

Faith stopped and pulled Buffy in for a soft gentle kiss before relaxing back against the smaller blonde. "Want you too B," Faith whispered back.

Through their bond, Buffy saw the picture of Faith throwing her over her shoulder and running top speed up to her bedroom and slamming the door. She could hear Faith's increased heartbeat and breathing rate. They both leaned forward at the same time and when their lips met it was electric...literally.

"Whoa B, that was wild. Do it again!" Faith said in a child's happy voice.

They leaned forward and again a blue spark came from their lips.

"Wow, I've heard of sparks flying, but that was totally awesome," Xander grinned like a loon at the otherwise occupied girls.

Both Slayers turned in unison and yelled: "Willow!" "Red!"

"Easy there guys, not me...I swear...I mean I wouldn't...I didn't...help me out here Tara or I'm gonna be Slayer Splat," Willow babbled.

Tara was too busy laughing into her hands, as was everyone else. Breanna had the wherefore to stop the tape.

The Slayers slowly brought their hands together and 'SIZZLE', the Slayers were thrown out of the chair but came right back up.

"What the fuck was that?" Faith looked at her hands.

"What's going on?" Buffy looked at Faith's hands, which now had an eerie glow to them.

"Dearheart, try putting some of that energy into your sword," Breanna suggested.

Faith took the stairs three at a time. She ripped the box open and grabbed the sword. It lit up like a Christmas tree for a few seconds and Faith felt herself return to normal. She brought the sword downstairs and set it on the table. "Thanks Gran, how did you know what to do?"

"The look in your eyes was the same as right before you first used it...right after the battle. You were, I believe you said...wired."

"OOOOkay, so what made me charge up like that? Is someone here hurt or something?" Faith looked around at all her friends.

Giles spoke softly, "I have a blinding headache...it came out of nowhere."

Faith glided over to the stricken Watcher and laid her hands gently on his temples, and slowly massaged his neck cords as well. Her eyes went silver momentarily and then back to normal.

"How do you feel now G-Man?"

"Better...thank you. I don't understand what hap...pened," Giles said as he grabbed his head and collapsed. Angel quickly caught him and held him upright.

Faith picked up the sword, recharged and set it down. She came back over to Giles and just stared at him for several minutes. What she saw scared the shit out of her as she screamed;

"Gran get Pop on the phone...NOW! G-Man lay down, Angel help him, B...get a towel full of ice...hurry."

Giles groaned as he was placed gently down on the couch by Angel.

"Talk to me Faith," Willow came over. Faith whispered in her ear and Willow listened attentively. "I'm not sure if I can do that or not. Lemme try." Willow went over to Giles, mumbled a few unintelligible words. Giles moaned. Faith's silver eyes glowed and she smiled,

"Good job Red...B? where..." Buffy handed her the towel full of ice and Faith made a crude hat with it and placed over the Watchers head.

<What's going on Faith?> Joyce looked worried.

"Dearheart here," Breanna handed Faith the phone.

"Pop, I need to understand how to fix an aneurysm now! I had Willow slow down the blood flow. What? Hang on. Willow, put it back the way it was quick...I fucked up, he could get brain damage if the blood flow is slowed for too long."

Willow quickly reversed what she had done.

<Aneurysm? Oh no, please let Faith be successful.>

B, please go get the medical book on my dresser." The panic in the dark Slayer's voice was what caught everyone's attention. They all just stood around, shuffling their feet.

Buffy raced upstairs and brought the book back down. Faith was listening to Brian closely. She reached for the book and turned to the right page. "Okay Pop...now what?" Faith flipped back and forth between two chapters. Angel had gone back to the kitchen and grabbed a bowlful of ice and was gently rubbing a cube across the stricken mans head as Spike added the extra cubes to the towel.

"Gran, come here." When she did, Faith handed her the phone. She went over to Giles, turned her inner sight to its maximum and saw what Brian had described. Now that she understood what exactly had happened, she could slowly force the blood back into circulation and relieve the pressure after repairing the wall of the artery. "Red, do that thing again, but only slow it down half of what you did before and be ready to turn it off when I say...k?"

"Just tell me what and when to do it Faith." Willow was trying hard not to panic. This was Giles they were dealing with...a father figure to most of the young people in the room.

*Goddess, please let her succeed, I worry for all of us if Giles dies, but mostly for what it would do to Faith.*

"Gramps, can your teeth penetrate the skull bone?"

"I don't know, I never tried...why?"

"I need you to relieve the extra pressure that is building up as I heal the damage. When Red lets the pressure return to normal, the build up will be dangerous. I need you to puncture the skull right here." She showed him on the diagram.

"Will all due respect Slayer, my fangs are longer and I have cracked a skull. This time it will be to help someone, let me have a go at it."

"He dies...you die." Faith had no time for pleasantries.

"Understood." Spike came over and kneeled down beside Giles.

"Okay," Faith mentally repaired the damaged artery and strengthened it. "Red, let the pressure go very slowly. Spike get in position."

Willow said the words and Spike received the go ahead. He put his game face on and bit down right where Faith had shown him and stepped back as almost black blood sprouted forth. Faith counted to three, saw the blood was a deep red again and then pressed her hand over the wound and healed it. She could see the artery held and the blood flow was back to normal. "I think we did it," Faith said softly as she sat down on the floor and started to cry and shake uncontrollably. Buffy got down on her knees, pulled Faith into her arms and held her. "You did it baby, he's okay."

"NGHHHHHH, what...what happened," a confused and bewildered Giles asked. "I have...had the most unbearable headache. I assume you made it better Faith?"

"Rupert, she just saved your life." Breanna stated. She sat besides the now sitting up man and explained everything to him.

"Had help Gran, it was a group effort. But boy am I glad it all worked out okay." Faith began to breathe easier now that the crisis was over.

"Yes dear, she succeeded wonderfully," Breanna handed the phone to Faith.

"Pop...thank you...thank you...how soon can I start taking those classes you suggested? Okay, please call me when you have more time to talk. Bye."

"Spike...thank you."

"Anything for you Slayer," he ducked in case Buffy might have taken it the wrong way.

Faith grabbed Spike's hand, and placed her other one on his stomach. "Gut rot not needed, you okay now?"

"Thanks...Faith...I mean for letting me help and for…well you know." Spike turned away, he didn't like to blush since it showed up rather well on his fair skin.

Faith went over to Giles, silver eyes staring at him long enough to assure herself that he really was just fine. She breathed a huge sigh of relief and let herself be led over to the chair she had been sharing with Buffy. The blonde slayer glanced at the sword and then at Breanna who got the message. The older woman brought the sword over to Faith and handed it to her. Faith smiled and recharged with it and it was placed back on the table.

Angel brought in a tray full of drinks. "I think we could all use this about now. Uhh. GD, can Giles have one now?"

"Not a good idea, I'm thinking. His choice."

"No thanks, I think I will just go home and get a good night's sleep. I don't really know what to say Faith. Thank you doesn't begin to cover it...I uhhhh..."

Faith hugged the stuttering man," Just glad we could help. Now, I'll drive you home."

"Really Faith, I assure you that I can drive myself home."

"You almost died G-man...because I didn't know enough. In my arrogance, I assumed I could fix anything...I was wrong. Not knowing exactly what to do...it could have cost you your life. I know deep down, that was a lesson I had to learn, but... Power isn't enough...knowledge is a must as well. As for you leaving now, I don't think so. I would really rather keep an eye on you for a while longer. I'm sure someone would give you a ride later."

Wesley came forward and took Giles keys out of his hand. "Got a spare room for a...friend?"

Giles knew he couldn't fight the dark slayer and he also knew she was right. He did want to stay near her in case anything else happened. "Ok course Wesley, but do you mind if we stay here for a little while longer?"

"Not at all dear boy." Wesley turned to Faith; "That was bloody amazing Faith. You have no reason to be upset with yourself. I happen to have several old medical books, father wanted me to be a doctor, never happened obviously...what was I saying? Ah yes, I will have my father send them to you soon."

"I'd appreciate that Wes, thank you. Healing power without knowledge is only half of what I need. I know that now. We all got incredibly lucky here and I don't want to ever feel panic like that again. B...I'm going to University in the New Year...Pop is going to arrange it."

"I understand Faith, is there anything I can do to help?"

"You will need a lot of patience with me, cause between school, work and slaying...we won't have a lot of private time."

Buffy pouted, "Won't be easy, but we will make it work. Are we talking years in medical school?"

"No, just...anatomy, biology and body chemistry. Pop thinks it may be just three evenings a week. I will be working from nine to five, dinner with you and then three classes. Slaying would be after that...I don't want you going alone if I'm late...promise me B."

"Faith I was slaying by myself before you came into my life, I can do it again. Maybe that is how I can help you...taking the pressure off and letting you study and do your homework. Slaying for you would only be weekends and the nights you don't have homework."

"B...."

"It's settled." Buffy dropped her bottom lip dramatically.

"No fair pouting B. "Red, Blondie on the nights I can't go with B, will you back her up if needed?"

"Of course Faith," the witches said in unison.

"Not exactly chopped liver Slayer," Spike added.

"I didn't want to impose Spike."

"My idea."

"Scuse me...in the room ya know? Faith don't you trust me?"

"You of course B, night critters...not a chance. I just want to know that you will be coming home every night...home to me safely." Seeing her girlfriend pouting but knowing she accepted the help being offered, Faith leaned down and kissed her tenderly. "Wanna keep ya around B, I love you."

"I love you too Faith. Breanna would you start the movie please?"

"Of course," Breanna pressed play and everyone settled down again, all but Faith who had grabbed the medical book and was reading.

Buffy leaned in whispering, so as not to disturb the others; "Faith, relax and watch the movie...for now. Reading that can wait till tomorrow can't it?"

"In a minute B," Faith answered. The dark slayer got up and went out to the kitchen. When she came back she handed Giles a large glass of orange juice. "You need to drink something G-Man, and vitamin C is good for ya."

Giles could sense the fear within the young woman and decided they needed to talk privately. When he stood up, Faith quickly reached out to help steady him. "Faith I believe we need to talk." He led the worried slayer into the kitchen and sat her down at the table. "Faith..."

"I know G-Man, this is the lecture about with great power comes great responsibility...right?"

"No Faith, I know you know that already. This lecture, if you choose to call it that, is about knowing your limitations and being able to accept the fact that you won't be able to help everyone all of the time."

"I damn sure plan to try G-Man."

"Uhhh, yes...well you see that's why we are worried about you."

"We?"

"Joyce, Breanna and myself. You will help as many people as you can, BUT...you can't help everyone. You use up all of your energy and more. If not for the sword's recharge capacity, you would be bedridden from your efforts. It took you years to learn when to back off from overwhelming odds when Slaying...I hope it takes a lot less time for you to recognize when to stop trying to help people by pushing yourself too hard in healing them.

"But Joyce!"

"You...you wouldn't!" Faith exclaimed heatedly.

Breanna had sauntered into the kitchen to join the discussion. "Now you listen to me dearheart, I know that you have overextended your abilities twice today...once for me and once for Rupert. You need to take it easy for a while and we won't take no for an answer," Breanna insisted.

"I'm okay, the sword recharged me...so stop worrying please." Faith hugged Breanna first, then Giles and finally Joyce.

Buffy walked in and over to Faith, "Is everything okay baby?"

"Yeah B, let's go watch the rest of the movie." Faith took Buffy's hand and walked back into the living room leaving behind three worried adults.

"We will Joyce," Giles stood up and smiled.

IN THE LIVING ROOM

Angel and Spike were discussing Faith and her almost desperate need to be allowed to help people. "You know Angel, she is locked into all of us...she is keeping track of everything. I think she wants to forget her past entirely and only wants to be known for her healing. She can't be allowed to forget she is also a Slayer."

"I know Spike, but she is very stubborn."

"Must be a family trait."

"Tara, is there any way we can reign in Faith's need to help?"

"I think so, but she will need to feel useful because in part thanks to all of us, she never has before."

"I am getting to know her...Faith I mean, not the Slayer. We should have been there for her...after the Finch thing and we weren't. I will do everything in my power to be her friend this time around."

Wesley walked over to the two witches and asked a favor. "Do you think you could get those medical books here faster than the post?"

"I could Wes...but then she would have her head in them all night and she needs to relax."

"Quite right, well other than private time with Buffy, what would help her to relax?"

"Not what...who." Willow smiled and made a phone call. "Done."

"What did you do Red?" Faith asked as she came back into the room.

"I uh...Petey wants to see you...tonight. Are you up for it?"

The smile on Faith's face was beautiful. "Really Red? We can go see him now?"

Buffy smiled and mouthed; "Good one Willow."

Willow stood up and announced, "I think the Triad of Trouble should get going. "Spiky?"

Spike turned around and growled lowly, "Don't call me that!"

"You're in charge, make sure everyone has whatever they need, we will be back in a couple of hours."

Spike mock saluted the redhead.

"You take it easy G-Man, I expect to see you here in fine form when I get back...understood?" Faith really cared for the Watcher and it showed.

"Yes." Under his breath, in an indignant voice, but loud enough for Faith and Buffy to hear; "Bloody child treating me like one."

Faith turned around and looked right at Giles, while fingering her ears. She just grinned and said, "Takes one to know one. Just for that G-Man, no eggnog for you." The Dark Slayer stuck her tongue out at the British man and blew him a raspberry.

Giles opened his mouth to reply but thought better of it.

Buffy giggled and everyone else laughed and turned away.

"Give it up Giles, wasn't it you who told us all when to recognize and admit defeat?" Xander gave the Watcher a perfect Spock's eyebrow salute.

"Bloody hell! Alright, I will endeavor to react with a modicum of behavior excellence."

"Huh? What'd he say," A bewildered Willow asked.

"He said he will TRY to behave." Faith grinned and blew her Watcher a kiss.

Spike, Tara, Xander and Anya just snickered while Angel shook his head for what he knew would only be the hundredth time of millions more to come.

Willow shook her finger at Giles while he rolled his eyes.

"Uh, Faith...Can I come with?" Xander asked shyly.

"Why Xan-Man?"

"Well I want to see the place before I make any decisions about what exactly to do to it."

"Good idea, okay come along. Just gimme a minute."

Faith pulled Buffy into her arms and kissed her tenderly with an unspoken promise of more to come later.

AT THE ORPHANAGE

Faith walked right in and instinctively went to the far corner where David and Petey were playing one of the video games they received from Faith and her friends.

"Fai...ith!" Peter rushed into her arms and jumped up.

'Hey little dude, how are you?' Faith signed.

'Fi..ve by fi...ve,' Peter answered and then giggled.

"That's ma boy. So what kind of trouble are we gonna get into tonight?" Faith signed quickly.

Word quickly spread through the house that Faith and her friends were here and the sound of a herd of elephants was heard descending.

"Yay, she's here." Tiffany and Al came over and hugged Faith who still had Petey in her arms.

"Thanks for all the great gifts Faith," young teens said.

The cheers from all of the residents just about took the roof off. Both Faith and Angel's extra sensitive hearing took a beating. Willow quickly shushed everyone, explaining that both of her friends had better hearing than the average person.

The larger kids wasted no time in lifting up the startled adults and placing them on the strong shoulders of their friends. Even the Director could be heard clapping. Faith and Angel quickly jumped down off the kids shoulders.

"A little help here," Willow asked. The kids finally put her down on the couch.

"Okay everybody listen up," Faith said. She made sure she had everyone's attention and then said, "Everyone write down one thing you really wanted for Christmas...but didn't get. We will get it tomorrow and bring them by."

"Miss Winters, I think you and your friends have done more than enough already."

"What's a matter Boss, ya never heard of Boxing Day? You know, fifty percent or better off of everything ya want but didn't get." Faith's wild child was out in full force and nothing or nobody was gonna stop her from 'Shop till ya Drop 2'.

Willow had grabbed the Ho Ho Hat off Anthony's head and put it on Faith. "Miss Claus is in da house. Line up with your request, and Santa's helpers will whisper in her ear."

Xander walked over to the Director and introduced himself. He asked for and was granted permission to wander anywhere in the building except for the children's rooms. For that he would have to come back again and gain permission from them first.

After collecting everyone's wish, Faith put them all in an envelope supplied by the Director, who knew enough to make sure that he and all other employees put their wish in too.

Al came over to Faith and quietly asked, "I know it may be kind of corny and late, but...would you read "The Night Before Christmas" to us." He handed her the large print book.

"I don't know about you all, but I kind of like accents. Chan's Asian one is musical, Bonnie sounds like G-Man...what was I talking about? Oh yeah accents...I think my Irish friend Angel would be a better choice to read. That way I can use both hands to sign to Petey. So what do ya say? Who do you want to read to you?"

"ANGEL!!!!!" was roared out and quickly stopped when reminded of the sensitive hearing of their new friends.

Angel looked at Faith with a 'I'll get you later' type look. Faith grinned and almost soundlessly replied..."Yeah, yeah you and what army Gramps?" She handed Angel the book and sat down directly in front of Petey.

Tiffany grabbed Willow's hand and dragged her into the kitchen. "Will you help me make cookies...chocolate chip? With the two us, we can get back for the end of the story."

"Let's do it," the redhead agreed.

BACK IN THE COMMON ROOM

Angel started to read, laying on his Irish accent to the hilt. Faith grinned and kept signing to Petey. She was sorry he couldn't the lilt of Angel's voice. As he came to the part with the first ghost he motioned Bonnie over and handed her the book. "British accents sound better for the ghosts."

Bonnie took over and read the ghostly parts with Angel narrating in between. The kids were really getting into the story by the time Tiffany and Willow returned with a platter full of cookies. Willow set it down in the middle of the floor, since everyone was in a large circle that made it easiest for all.

"MMMMMM, I smell cookies!" Xander said as he walked in.

Faith grabbed one and tossed it to him.

"Ow...warm," He juggled it onto the sleeve of his sweater.

Once everyone had grabbed a few cookies and given Angel a chance to scarf down a few, he continued on with the story. Bonnie read her parts to perfection and when the story was done both she and Angel received a standing ovation and quiet cheer.

Faith noticed that Petey and some of the other younger children were nodding off and quietly suggested putting them to put before she left. Of course she took Petey.

Willow saw Petey sign to Faith: "Will you kiss me goodnight?"

"Absolutely Little Dude." Faith swung the young boy up into her arms and blew a raspberry on his belly. Petey giggled and squirmed but Faith held on to him and carried him into his room.

Tiffany pulled Willow aside and said: "Do you know what size of pants she wears? We decided that getting two, maybe three things for Faith tomorrow was better than getting one thing for today. Do you think she would be upset we didn't get anything today?"

"Not all Tiffany, she more of giver than a receiver...so tomorrow is fine and she takes size six in pants."

"Thanks. We also wanna get that fancy writing thing all about where a name comes from. Do you think she would like that?"

"She will love anything that comes from you guys. And those things are beautiful and very special. I bet that was your idea wasn't it?"

The teenage girl nodded shyly.

"It was a good one and she will be surprised. If I might suggest something?"

"Go ahead."

"Go in the morning, because I just know she won't be going shopping till at least noon and you don't want her to see what you are all up to."

"Okay, I'll ask Anthony if we can go then, be right back."

When Tiffany came back she looked upset.

"What's wrong?"

"He can only take us in the afternoon."

"Well how many of you were going to get the gifts?"

"Al, Chan, Peter and me."

"Well, how about I pick you guys up at nine in morning and after the shopping trip we can grab

McDonald's to bring home for everyone."

"You're the best, next to Faith. Thank you."

"You're welcome, I'll see tomorrow morning."

Willow came back over to her friends. "Where's Faith?"

"Still upstairs with Petey," Angel answered.

"Good," Willow explained her little mission for the following morning. Angel smiled and said he would make sure Faith didn't leave before noon.

"How are you gonna do that, I mean I kind of figure that she and Buffy will be...."

"Exactly, watch and learn young one." Angel pulled his cell out of his pocket and called Buffy. He quickly explained that he needed her to keep Faith occupied and she quickly agreed.

"I know just how to do it." Buffy licked her lips and pictured them somewhere warm and wet. She started to feel a bit warm herself and decided not to think about her gorgeous lover for the time being.

"I don't really need to hear the details. Bye."

"Details? Nope don't wanna hear em either," the redhead blushed.

"Details? About what?" Faith asked as she descended the stairs.

Willow looked panic-stricken before going with the old stand by: "RIBBIT RIBBIT"

"K.... this is me shutting up now."

Xander joined his friends after arranging to come back in a few days to make a more detailed list of the emergency repairs he would have to make before any beautification could be done.

"Hey Will, if you chip in ten bucks, we could buy a few burgers to take home and maybe some fries too."

"Faith pulled out her plastic, and volunteered to pay."

"Not this time, rich lady." Xander said.

AT BUFFY'S HOUSE

"They've been gone a long time."

"They probably stopped off to get something to eat, one starved vampire and a slayer, but they better hurry back...I miss my orgasm buddy," Anya said.

Giles, Breanna, Spike and Joyce all just turned away and starred at the television.

Buffy felt Faith's return before she heard the car. She jumped up and ran to the front door in time to open it for the loaded down Slayer. The smell of burgers and fries assaulted her senses.

Spike spoke up, "Burgers...fries...gimme gimme gimme."

Faith laughed and tossed a couple of burgers to the British vampire before handing him a large order of fries. Everyone managed to get a burger of some kind and fries and settled down to eat the snack. Faith handed a bag of little boxes of cookies to Giles. "Here ya go G-Man, a few more days supply for ya."

Giles looked inside the bag and smiled. "Thank you Faith."

"Faith I spoke to my father," Wesley shuddered. "He is sending the books by overnight courier. But he can't send them till the twenty-eighth, so you will get them on the twenty-ninth."

"Thanks Wes, I appreciate that. They will be worth their weight in gold."

Spike was waving the TV guide around, "Bloody Hell, we have to watch this movie...its funniest new Christmas movie I have ever scene. It stars Whoopi Goldberg, so you know its good."

"What's it called William?" Breanna asked.

"Call Me Claus. Buffy can I turn it on?"

"Sure Spike, go ahead." Buffy sat her girlfriend down in their chair and sat half beside her and half on her. She hugged her tightly and whispered, "I missed you."

"Missed you too B, a couple more hours and then I promise I'm gonna rock your world."

Both Slayers immediately smelled their increased arousal and calmed their breathing down before Willow could zap them again.

Wesley and Breanna made a round of drinks for everyone and handed them out as the movie came on.

When the movie ended, the Slayers and the Witches were asleep in their respective partners arms. Angel gently woke up the Slayers and Breanna did the same for the Witches.

"HUH? whatzhappin?" Faith mumbled.

"Oh goddess, we fell asleep," Tara was acutely embarrassed. "Come on, let's go home and let them get some sleep...or whatever."

"My money is on the whatever," Willow smarted back looking at Faith and Buffy who only had, somewhat open eyes, for each other.

Wesley stuck close to Giles as they left together. The vampires told the Slayers that they would patrol before heading home. The witches promised to call tomorrow afternoon.

Joyce kissed her girls, <Good night girls.>

"Night Mom, they chorused. Joyce vanished and when the Slayers turned around they saw Breanna trying to clean up the fast food wrappers.

"That can wait till morning Gran, I know we aren't the only tired people here." Faith took the paper and set it done while gently shoving Breanna towards the stairs.

The girls stopped at Faith's bedroom, saying good night to Breanna before entering.

Chapter Twenty

Buffy gently shoved Faith inside the open door to her bedroom. Faith grinned and turned around to kiss her blonde counterpart.

The Slayers slowly undressed each other in between passionate kisses. They lay down on the bed beside each other, just gazing into love filled eyes.

"B...you know I want to make love to you, god do I ever. But right now I just wanna hold you in my arms for a few minutes. Is that okay?"

"Like being held by you Faith." Buffy wrapped Faith's arms around her midsection and sighed contentedly. "Do you have any idea just how amazing a woman you are baby?"

"Not me B, you're the amazing one. I mean...you not only forgave me for all the shit I did in the past, but you love me...really love me. No one has ever made me feel so loved, trusted and wanted."

Buffy rubbed small circles on Faith's tummy, "Definitely wanted baby...and loved and trusted too."

Faith brought Buffy's face down and stared into her eyes. Her insides melted when she saw the love there. Buffy stared right back and found herself falling into deep chocolate brown eyes.

Both young women gently caressed each other's face.

"I know you Faith...you're still upset about what happened with Giles. What I don't understand is why? You saved his life. What more do you need or want? Please baby...explain it to me."

"My first decision almost destroyed his brain B. If Pop wasn't on the phone correcting me...G-Man could have...could have...because of me." Silent tears ran down her cheeks and were kissed gently away by Buffy.

"But baby, you got the right information and saved him. You made a mistake, but you corrected it immediately and Giles owes you his life. Seeing Spike crack his skull like that...EWWWW, but it worked just like you knew it would."

*Didn't know, just prayed really hard.* "Well a stake was too big," Faith replied softly.

Buffy's eyes widened and her mouth opened and closed. "Not gonna go there." The blonde slide off Faith's very accommodating body and flipped her over onto her stomach. She pushed the lustrous dark hair away from Faith's neck and started massaging the tightened cords. Her fingers put the right amount of pressure right where it was needed most.

"That feels soooo gooooddddd B," Faith mumbled sleepily.

"Supposed to Faith," Buffy laughed and moved her hands down across strong 'take on the world's problems' shoulders. As she worked out a particularly tight muscle in the brunette's shoulder she felt the body beneath her totally relax.

"MMMMM....B....love you."

"Love you too baby," Buffy heard soft snores coming from Faith and smiled to herself. *Sleep the sleep of angels baby cause that's what you are.* Buffy snuggled in closer and threw her arm protectively across the sleeping girls shoulder while her right leg crossed possessively across Faith's legs. In minutes she joined her girlfriend in slumber.

AT WILLOWS APARTMENT

Willow led Tara inside and they sat down. She jumped up to make the herbal tea she knew Tara loved. Tara came over and steadied the redhead's shaking hands. "It okay Willow...I'll d…do it."

Tara kissed long tapered fingers until they stopped shaking.

"I know I shouldn't ask this but I need to know. What did Angel and Faith promise the PTB's for your return?"

Tara took a deep breath and let it out before starting to speak. "Faith was willing to give up her Slayer power."

"Goddess NO! She can't...tell me she didn't...did she?"

"I said she offered that, I didn't say they accepted her offer. Apparently she felt all she could offer was Slaying or Healing and she desperately wants to keep the healing."

"But they didn't take it?"

"No, they told her she would need both abilities in the future. And considering the price Angel paid...that is true."

"Angel? What? Tell me."

Tara explained the pact made between the souled vampire, Faith and the PTB's.

"One weekend per month, I go with Faith to where ever the hell they will send him. That's all? God, Tara...that's a small price to pay for having you back here...alive." Willow hugged her blonde girlfriend.

"We owe them and you know they would both ask us to protect Buffy when Faith can't. I can make sure Spike, Xander and I go patrolling with Buffy when "The Triad of Trouble" is away. But right now the best thing we can do for all concerned is get through to Faith about knowing her limits." Tara was certain that it would not be easy dealing with a 'Gung Ho' Faith.

<Girls?> Joyce made her presence known.

"Mrs. Summers!, is everything okay?" Willow asked in a panicked voice.

<Yes, Willow...they're sleeping. I thought of a way the two of you could help Faith.>

"How?" Willow asked quickly.

<Well, when you see her almost at her limit...make her feel more tired...don't put her to sleep because she will know it was you doing a spell. But if she feels the extra tiredness, maybe she will stop herself before she really does run of juice.>

"Were you always this sneaky Mrs. Summers?" Willow laughed, but Tara looked thoughtful.

"We might not see how tired she is, she hides it well until she almost collapses. At least that's what it sounded like to me when Breanna said she healed her. And we all saw her drop to the floor when she finished with Giles." Tara wondered if there was a way to increase Faith's stamina.

"Uhhhh, Mrs. S...Summers? What about increasing her stamina? Would that help?"

"Make sure she doesn't go anywhere without having quick access to her special sword. Once she gets back to work and starts school, she may not be using the healing as much. I think it for the most part will be used to heal her and Buffy's patrolling injuries. And they, thank god, aren't injured every night. It's just possible that she will build the stamina before she actually needs to push it. It is possible..." Willow babbled out.

"We will and you know Buffy can get through to her better than anyone. Try talking to her when Faith goes to work. Try talking to Faith herself, she respects you and listens to you...sort of, kind of sometimes."

Joyce laughed out loud. <She is one in a million.>

"An original." Willow nodded.

"We will. Bye Mrs. Summers."

AT GILES APARTMENT

Wesley was humming as he walked behind Giles. They hung their coats up and sat down in wingchairs. "So old boy, how do you feel?"

"Do stop calling me 'Old Boy'. It's bad enough that Faith won't use my name except in rare occasions. I don't bloody well need that from you Wesley." Giles groused.

"Of course. But you didn't answer me, how do you feel?"

"I assure you, I'm fine. I'm just worried about Faith."

"Why for gods sake? She saved your life tonight."

"I know that ya bloody fool. But it could have injured her in ways I don't want to think about. As I was otherwise occupied, maybe you could tell me in great detail, just what her reaction was when she finished healing me."

"She collapsed and Buffy lowered her to the floor. She was scared to death. She was questioning her ability...my god...she looked guilty and ready to run. Why? She was bloody successful. You're still here."

"The first medical decision she made on her own judgment just happened to be wrong. Breanna explained to me that she had Willow slow the blood flow and that was a wrong decision, which was pointed out by Dr. Brian Liam. She listened to him, saw in her mind what she wanted the outcome to be and then she improvised and it worked. Although I'm bloody glad that I didn't see Spike crack my skull. But she believes she almost killed me because she made a wrong decision. It must be eating her up inside. She feels things deeper than most people her age and she hides her emotions very well for the most part."

"Well then, those books from my father will certainly help. She is like a giant sponge...she doesn't just want to learn, she needs it. I am willing to place a little wager on our Faith." Wesley pulled out his wallet and placed a one hundred Eurodollar bill on the table.

"Wager?" Giles asked, not sure he wanted to know.

"Yes, I bet that Faith will stroll through her medical courses at the University as if she were walking through the park. High eighties or better...are you in?"

"If we are going to bet...then it has to be exact. I say she will obtain an average of ninety-five." Giles placed an American hundred-dollar bill on the table.

"Alright, I say a little less...say an average of ninety. The money will go towards her graduation party no matter what her passing grade and we both know she will pass."

"Done." The English men shook on it.

AT ANGELS MANSION

The two vampires went over to Spike's table and set down the two large pizzas' they bought on the way home from patrolling.

"Angel, serious talk for a few minutes?"

"Go ahead."

"About Faith. She scared herself silly tonight...you know that right?"

"Yes."

"Yes? That's all you have to say Poof?"

"Don't call me that again. What would you have me say Spike? I have no idea how to rein her in. She is heading for a world of hurt and I don't know how to stop it. She's family Spike...real family and I'm useless to her. All I can do it watch."

"Well I intend on keeping a eye on her. She really loves that little blighter doesn't she?"

"Petey? Yes she does and it's mutual. They have a special bond. Why?"

"Well she said that nothing is as important as family...nothing. So why don't you start throwing hints about her adopting the kid. A family would keep her busy and push healing down the list. Just an idea."

Angel blinked; he never thought that Spike had it in him to be so insightful or thoughtful about anyone. He knew that the blonde vampire cared about Faith and Buffy. But like Faith, no one ever listened to Spike seriously...until now.

"That will take time. She is not sure she is capable of taking care of herself just yet. Buffy is helping her out with that. But adopting Petey is a great idea. We should talk to the witches tomorrow and run it by them. Willow seems to understand Faith better than most. And it was Willow who took Faith to meet Petey in the first place.

Spike flipped the lid off the box, "Mmmm, dig in," he said around a mouthful of pizza.

3 a.m. FAITH'S BEDROOM

Faith was thrashing around, crying and whimpering.

Buffy's X-rated dream came to an abrupt halt when she saw the emptiness in Faith's eyes.

"I killed him...oh god. How could I have fucked up so badly?"

Buffy turned and saw a tombstone, she leaned down to read the writing on it: Rupert Giles 1960 - 2004 A mentor for all.

*Oh god...Faith...NO!* Buffy snapped out of the dreamscape and gently woke her very distressed girlfriend.

"Faith...baby? Wake up; it's only a nightmare. Giles is fine, you didn't kill him."

"G-MAN!" Faith looked around, her chest was heaving with exertion. "B?"

Buffy pulled the younger Slayer into her arms and cuddled her. The vacant look in Faith's eyes faded as she softly sobbed into the blonde girl's shoulder.

KNOCK KNOCK

"Faith me darling, are you alright? May I come in?"

Buffy quickly grabbed their robes and threw them on before answering a worried Breanna.

"Come in Breanna." Buffy pulled a still frightened Faith back into her arms.

"Dearheart...what's wrong? How can I help ye?" Breanna sat down on the bed when Buffy motioned her to do so.

"She had a nightmare Breanna," Buffy supplied.

A few hiccups later, Faith pulled away from Buffy to look at her grandmother. "I'm...sorry I woke you Gran," Faith sniffled.

"Don't be silly dear, come here." Breanna opened her arms and Buffy released the brunette. Faith felt unconditional love from the warmth of Breanna's arms. Breanna softly began to sing an old Irish lullaby. Faith's eyes drooped before staying closed. Breanna continued running her hand down the back of Faith's hair. She looked at Buffy.

Buffy whispered, "She dreamed that Giles died because of what she did or didn't do."

Breanna gently laid Faith back down on the bed and covered her up. "For the first time in her young life, she has family and friends. She is terrified of losing any of us. Unless I'm mistaken, Rupert is a kind of father figure to all of you young people...isn't he?"

"Yeah, he is and a whole lot more too." Buffy gently pushed the hair out of Faith's eyes and behind her ear. Faith visibly relaxed the moment she subconsciously felt her lover's touch.

"I really hope she doesn't remember her nightmare, but if she does...Say these exact words to her: "Rupert did not die in your dream because you did something wrong...you did the right thing at the wrong time. He lives because you did everything right from that point on." Breanna knew Faith would be beating herself up whether she remembered the dream or not.

"Thank you Breanna, but I think that maybe you should talk to her...uh, if needed. I just know that Giles is alive because she knew what everyone had to do and when. Then she healed him."

"Don't ever stop telling and showing her how much you love her and appreciate all of her virtues...and faults. You are and always will be the key to her happiness." Breanna leaned forward and kissed Buffy on the forehead and then Faith on the cheek. "May the rest of your night be spent in happier dreams. Good night Buffy."

"Night Breanna, and thanks."

"None needed."

BOXING DAY 10:00 a.m. FAITH'S ROOM

Upon awakening, Faith immediately reached out for the phone. She waited not to patiently for an answer.

"Hello?"

"G-Man...are you okay? How do you feel?" Faith worried words rushed out.

"I'm fine Faith, please don't concern yourself. I spoke to Brian earlier..."

"Pop? What did he say? Is he pissed that I almost killed you?"

"You didn't almost kill me Faith, and he is very proud of you. It seems that repairing an aneurysm is a very difficult thing to do. He is like a proud peacock. I can see him strutting around saying; "My girl uhhhh rocks I believe would be the correct term."

Buffy rolled over and listened to Faith talk to Giles. She could see it helped...a little.

"Thanks G-Man, promise me you will call if you feel anything weird or painful." Faith said in a caring but demanding voice.

"I will Faith. Oh Wesley says and I quote: "She's a bloody marvel, she is."

"He's really good at sucking up huh g-Man?" Faith laughed.

"Um...errr...ahh, yes. What will you be doing later? Would you and Buffy like to come by to train today?"

"Training before 'Shop Till everyone drops 2'…got it. See you in a few hours." Faith hung up and felt herself pulled backwards into Buffy's welcoming arms.

"Feel better now baby?" Buffy pushed away some hair off of Faith's shoulder so she could lay a few dozen soft kisses there.

"MMMMM, feeling a whole lot better when ya do that B."

Faith turned around in her girlfriend's arms and gazed into the deepest green eyes. What she saw made her squeeze her legs together and moan.

"I'm sorry about last night B." Faith bit her lower lip.

"HEY! Don't be damaging one of my favorite parts of you. And as for last night...don't be. Told ya, I love all of you Faith... all."

Faith's smile lit up the room. "Love you too B."

"Show me," Buffy said as she peeled off the robes from last night and lay back with open arms. Faith grinned and leaned forward to lie on top of Buffy. She held her breast and moved it slowly around Buffy's nipple and did the same to the other one.

Buffy sucked in a deep breathe but had promised herself that she would not beg...at least not this quick.

AT SPIKE'S CRYPT 8:30 a.m.

Spike woke up on the couch and went to wake Angel who was asleep in the large wingback chair.

"Rise and shine...Angel."

Angel opened his eyes and saw a phone being handed to him. "Call the witches and I'll go get some breakfast and coffee for us both." Spike looked around for his duster, put it on and left.

Angel sat up, cleared his head and called Willow.

"Hello?"

"Hi Willow, got a few minutes?"

"Sure, what's on your mind...as if I didn't know."

"Faith."

"Of course, you're worried about her after yesterday aren't you?"

"Yes, I think we all are. She will be beating herself up over what could have happened when she made a wrong decision. Believe it or not...Spike came up with a great idea to help keep Faith occupied and less likely to over extend her healing ability."

"Tell me, and I promise Tara and I will help make it happen."

"Well Spike suggested that Faith legally adopt Petey. I have seen them together and they belong together. Do you think if we all drop hints that she might go for it?"

"I think that thought has been in the back of her mind ever since we left for Ireland. And you just know Petey would go home with her in a second. But she is still unsure of herself and her ability to take care of anyone."

"Yes, well...I did say drop hints for awhile."

"Joyce had another idea on how to help Faith."

"Do tell."

"She wants Tara and I to make her more tired when healing so she may stop before she actually runs out of juice."

"Good luck. It's a good idea but Faith is willing to put her own health at risk for people she cares about. Hell even strangers would benefit from her skills. I don't envy all of you trying to reign in Faith."

"Uh...Angel?"

"Yes?"

"Tara told me the price you paid and what Faith was willing to do. I don't know how to thank you...both. One weekend per month helping you seem like a small price to pay for having the love of my life back."

"Be happy Willow, that's all we both want for you...and Tara."

"What are you doing in the next little while?"

"Nothing, why?"

"Wanna come with me to help the kids pick out gifts for Faith?"

"Well I kind of figured I would be helping GD later, so why not. I will meet you there. What time and where?"

"The leather store at nine thirty."

"I'll be there. See you later. Bye."

"Thanks Angel, bye."

FAITH'S BEDROOM

"Oh yeah, I'll show you." Faith leaned down and teased Buffy's lips with her tongue. Buffy opened her mouth and Faith's tongue charged right in. A duet of tongues as old as time began and continued for a long while. Both girls pulled back at the same time gasping for air.

"God B, you taste good...wanna taste the rest of you. Can I?"

"Mhmmm, please do...NOW!" Buffy ordered her gorgeous girlfriend

Faith smiled and kissed the beautiful blonde all over her face and neck. She sniffed and smiled; she could smell B's increased wetness and was damn proud of herself for causing it without doing too much. *Jeez girl...ego much, you're wetter than her.*

Faith palmed both of Buffy's breasts and gently kneaded them. The older slayer came up off the bed, forcing more of her fevered flesh into Faith's very talented mouth. Her knee came between Faith's legs and Buffy could feel the dark slayer dripping on her leg and it only served to increase her desire. *It just keeps getting better and better. She is an amazing lover and she is all mine.*

"Faith...mine."

"Mphmmmmn," Faith said around a rock hard nipple.

"God B, you are so beautiful and soft and..." Faith knew even heaven wouldn't feel this good.

"Touch me please baby, I need to feel you...all of you." Buffy decided that begging was perfectly acceptable and understandable.

Faith fingers went a walking...everywhere and the slowness and gentleness had driven Buffy into a tizzy.

"Oh Faith, you...mmmm, good...more...lower...please." Buffy was having a hard time forming words. She sent a picture of Faith eating her out through their bond.

"Huh? Okay B, spread em for me." Faith sent back a picture of Buffy screaming out her orgasm.

Buffy's legs popped open underneath Faith and the brunette slowly slid her body down B's licking and nipping all the way down. The blonde was thrashing around, moaning, begging, growling and sending her need back through their bond. Faith sucked in a breath and sat back for a moment.

"Damn B, trying to make me cum before I make you scream?"

"Works for me," Buffy giggled and pushed Faith back down to where she needed her most.

Faith was never one to disappoint. Her tongue started at the bottom of the crack and ran upwards through the spread pussy lips. *Damn, ma girl really tastes good.* Faith placed a soft kiss on the throbbing clit and Buffy bucked her hips as she pushed her girlfriend into her.

"Faith, suck it...please," Buffy moaned deeply, she knew she was close.

Faith slurped around the clit before sucking it into her hot mouth. Using her tongue in quick strokes across it, Buffy was bucking strongly and if not for Slayer strength, Faith would be on the floor. "Oh yeah B, gonna cum for me?"

"FAITHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!" Buffy crashed over the edge to oblivion and thanks to their bond she took Faith with her.

"BEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!" Faith shook when she came. She was totally caught surprised. *Christ girlfriend, B didn't even touch you...yet.*

Both girls breathing finally evened out. Buffy quickly pulled Faith up to her face and sat her down. Faith had no objections of course. Buffy gobbled up all of the brunette's orgasm and was working on creating another one.

"Fuck...B...fuck me with your tongue...pleaseeeeeee!" Faith knew she was begging, but didn't care as long as Buffy did what she asked for.

Buffy stiffened her tongue and plunged it up into her girlfriend. She had enough sense to grip Faith's ass to hold on to her now bucking lover.

"Yeah B...faster, harder...do me baby."

Buffy vibrated her tongue deep inside of Faith and she screamed.

"B...........," Holy fuck...what was that? Jeez, I thought I had mad skills, but you...you are fucking awesome."

They shared a tender kiss and wrapped their arms around each other letting their bodies relax.

AT THE ORPHANAGE 9:00 a.m.

Willow pulled up in front and kids that were waiting on the porch came flying at the car. Doors were slammed as David, Petey, Tiffany and Chan jumped in.

"Let's go Willow. We want to get good stuff for Faith before everyone else buys it all first." Tiffany asked.

AT THE MALL

Willow took the kids to Faith's favorite leather shop and explained to the owner that these kids can't afford the best, but since their gift was for one of the stores top spenders... no tax and a slight reduction in price wouldn't hurt. The owner quickly agreed. He pulled out two pairs of black leather pants one was lined with suede. They choose that pair in the right size. Tiffany paid for the pants and let Petey carry them.

Willow thanked the owner and was handed a rectangular box. She opened it and found the matching gloves. She looked at the owner questioningly.

"Like you said, one of my best customers and when she is in here, she's the best walking advertisement any store owner could want."

Willow smiled and took the kids to the curio shop that did the specialized calligraphy that the kids wanted for Faith. Next stop was McDonald's where Willow literally ran into Angel who was wolfing down a Big Mac.

"Sorry I couldn't find you. I went to the leather shop on the third floor and when I saw you come out of that one," Angel said pointing, "I came here. I knew you would bring them."

"It's okay Angel. I see you started without us thought," Willow said laughing. She handed Tiffany some money and told her to get everyone a McValue Meal. After they finished, she would get a take out order for everyone back at the Orphanage.

FAITH'S ROOM

Buffy woke up being kissed by Faith.

"MMMM, like waking up that way baby." Buffy stretched and Faith followed suit.

"We need to get showered, dressed, and eat break before going over to Giles for training. After that we go shopping." Faith grinned like a kid.

"*Oh god, here she goes again. Buffy's feet were trying to send a message to her brain explaining that even another Slayer would have a tough time keeping up with Faith in gift shopping mode. Other parts of her body jumped in with the 'don't forget how grateful she can be'. Buffy squeezed her legs together and decided that runners would be the shoes of choice.

Faith held out her hand to Buffy and they went into the bathroom to shower.

IN THE KITCHEN

Breanna had heard the shower turn on and she knew the girls were awake but had no illusions as to their being right down. She hummed to herself, fed the kittens and placed a dishtowel over the bowl of pancake batter. She knew enough to wait till she heard them actually coming downstairs.

IN THE SHOWER

Both young women were silently saying their own private mantra.

*No horny slayer in here.*

Faith washed her hair while staying just out of touch with her girlfriend.

Buffy breathed deeply and turned around to rinse her hair out.

"Christ B! You've got a gorgeous ass...I just wanna..."

Faith quickly jumped out of the shower wrapped a towel around her hair and one around her body and she fled into the bedroom. She could hear Buffy laughing quietly. She dried off well and walked naked into the bedroom. She heard Faith gasp and turned to her. "What's the matter baby? Don't you like what you see?" Buffy used the most seductive voice Faith had ever heard.

The dark girl's mouth dropped open and her tongue almost hit the floor. "Shit B, you're not making this easy." While trying to put her pants on, backwards since she was so flustered, she felt a soft little hand run up the inside of her legs which were becoming wetter by the second.

"Lemme dry the up for ya baby," Buffy smirked. She crawled over to Faith, pushed her up against the wall and dove in.

~Really liking the more aggressive you B.~

~Good. I always want you baby, just sometimes it a lot harder to control.~

The older Slayer sucked on the cherry red little nib and sent three fingers up into a welcoming channel.

"B...., yeah...there," Faith panted and squirmed but managed to stay on her feet.

Buffy locked her hands around the upper part of Faith's legs and speed up her fingers and tongue. She knew she was the only thing between Faith's falling down and not collapsing. She sucked hard on the clit and Faith screamed as her legs gave out. Buffy was ready, she fell back to the floor taking Faith with her. Faith fell forward, breathing hard. Buffy waited a minute before starting a slow grind into her girlfriend.

Thanks to Slayer stamina, Faith was ready again. She matched Buffy's rhythm immediately. They hung on to each other as they rode back. The rubbing clits finally ignited something deep inside both of them and they roared out together.

"OH god Faith, I'm gonna cummmmmmmmmm."

"Me toooooooooooooooo."

The rocking motion created by the Slayers during their orgasm knocked over the lamp, clock and phone off the night table. They both stopped trembling a few minutes later. Helping each other back to their feet, they picked up the stuff and put it back. Slayer hearing heard Breanna yell upstairs asking if everything was alright.

Faith stumbled over to the door and yelled back, "Everything's fine Gran, we just knocked over the shit on the little table beside the bed. We'll be down as soon as we finish dressing... in a few minutes."

IN THE KITCHEN

*In a pig's eye.* Breanna went back to her smut paper smiling.

Chapter Twenty-One

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 girlfriends 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 sweat suits 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 it 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 shell-shocked 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 other's 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 Ma'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 shiny 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 unnecessarily"

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 at 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 concede defeat...yet.

"Uh...girls?" Giles tried to interrupts 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...till 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. What's a 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 blond 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 practicing 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 color the way they are. Black and Blue...do not suit a man of my disposition." Wesley 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 lifesaver 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 changing room. 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 be forgetting is that they are still young. I mean Faith just turned twenty-one and Buffy will be twenty-two next months. "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 Faiths 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 colorful 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 blond 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 till 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 newfound 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 rain check, check?"

"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 accidentally 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 girl's 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, and 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 orphanage?"

"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 Till 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 blond 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 among 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 like Egypt 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 jewelry 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 Sunnydale 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 jewelry 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.

Chapter Twenty-Two

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, how's 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 conspiringly as he leaned down to hear the boy's 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 blond 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 heart attack. 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 placed 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 be infinitesimal. 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 color 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 Wicca 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 kind of 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.

All that he had seen in such a short space of time fascinated the Director. *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 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 real shiny package and handed it to Faith. "From all."

Faith's mouth dropped open and with shaky 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. Buff wiped 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 an occasionally 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 privileges 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 blond 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 Spikes 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.

"Horsy...horsy." 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."

"Giddy up...giddy up." Kory was bouncing on Spike's back.

"Actually Kory, Spike is British, so you should say 'Tallyho!'." Faith laughed.

"Tally up Spiky."

"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 that 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 horsy 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. "Spiky."

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 blond 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 Ma'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 horsy 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 groping 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 your 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. The disbelief was evident in his voice.

"Your 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 huge 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 'Spiky' is a mush-ball." 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 embarrassed 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…occasionally, unlike you and Petey."

Tara and Willow smiled at the blond 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 athletic 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."

"Your 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 Angels 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 is 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 witching 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 girl's faces that they knew what it was now. Faith's grin was luminescent 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.

Chapter Twenty-Three

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 girlfriends 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 controlling 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 till 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 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 Buffys. "Nice two gun salute their 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 girlfriends 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? Yur '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 scissor 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 yur 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 girls mouth.

"It's just me Dear heart." 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 Dear heart. 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 Dear heart." 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...decisions, 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 mischievous 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 Dear heart.* Breanna smirked and poured her girls a cup of coffee.

"MMMMM...Bacon and eggs...your 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 Dear heart," 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 Dear heart, 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 dear heart. 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. "Dear heart 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 Dear heart." 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 Dear heart 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 honored, 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 Running horse 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 disapprovingly 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 your 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 adventurously 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 girl's 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 misspelled 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.

Chapter Twenty-Four

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 hamburger, several roasts and two pre-made packs of veal parmesan with spaghetti.

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 today's 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 margarine 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, cheeses 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 jewelry 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 shipwreck 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 leprechaun 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 till 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...disgusting."

"Yes it was. Do you know where most of Spain's gold came from?"

"The new world. South America and Central America. Look what they did to the Indians...whipped 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?"

"Your 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."

"Your 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 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. "Spiky?"

The half asleep little girl asked.

"Nope, sorry sweetie. It's just me...Willow."

"Want Spiky."

"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 'Spiky'."

"Put her on luv."

"Spiky!" The little girl was bouncing up and down.

"Hi Princess, how are you today?"

"Spiky 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 a lot and not every night."

"Your 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 a 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.

"Spiky! wuv Spiky."

Spike had heard the little girls declaration and he smiled. *Cor the bloody kid really does like me.* "Tell her...never mind, 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 Spiky."

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?"

"Spiky! Spiky!" 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?"

"Spiky...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 horsy 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."

"Your family Spike, nuff said. Later."

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.

Chapter Twenty-Five(a)

Buffy and Faith walked hand in hand into the kitchen.

"MMMMM...roast, potatoes, gravy...and rabbit food." Faith licked her lips.

"Even big bad 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 there 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, yur 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 yur 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 Brians 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."

"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 drivers seat, Tara sat up front and Faith got into the back.

AT SPIKES 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...Spikes 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 witches 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 girlfriends 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 collapsed into the smaller girls 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 satisfactory 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 can 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! Your 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 granddaughter.

"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."

"Your 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 Vengeance 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 granddaughter?"

"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."