Kennedy the Vampire Slayer

Rating: PG-13 - NC-17
Disclaimer: All of the materials borrowed from Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Angel belong to Joss Whedon and to the entities and companies associated with their creation. I have borrowed them for creative and entertainment purposes only. No compensation has been or ever shall be received for the writing below. No copyright infringement is intended. Please don't sue
Distribution: The Kennedy Fanfic Archive: http://www.kennedyfanfic.com/fanfic/
From Willow's Window: http://www.elfie.org/~wolfkin/willowfan/index.html
If you are interested in posting my story on your site, please contact me first for permission.
Feedback: Yes, please. Any type you wanna send. Can't fix what I don't know is broken, right?
Spoilers: Show's been off the air since May of 2003. Can they still be considered spoilers?
Author's Notes: Okay-I've been thinking about Martha's challenge and this is the background on the Kennedy FanFiction Archive needed for the story.

Kennedy is the Slayer, the only Slayer. No Buffy - never was. She's a lone wolf, no Scooby gang to back her up, just her Watcher - well more like Watcher in training, since her real Watcher got called back to London. She just turned twenty-one and received her trust fund. She's been living a little recklessly since she got her money.

Willow just finished her internship at Boston General and came to Sunnydale four weeks ago to do her residency, a bad breakup prompting the move cross country.

That should be all you need to know for now... There will be some new characters added and appearances by names you know, though their characters may be totally different.
F/F romance: This story assumes a loving and sexual relationship between people of the same gender. If this offends or is illegal for you, then please leave. Come back when you are older, have an open mind, moved, or changed your laws.
Pairing: Kennedy/Willow (Eventually)

Summary:A slightly different take on when Willow and Kennedy first got together. In response to a challenge on The Kennedy FanFiction Archive.

Chapter One: A Chance Meeting

As she rolled her stiff neck and ran her hand across the same spot the doors burst open and in rushed the paramedics with a bleeding victim.

"Neck wound," states the man as he brings the gurney toward the redhead. She points them to the exam room.

"Vitals?" She asks as she shakes her head and follows.

"Pulse weak and thready, he's lost a lot of blood."

She pulls the pressure bandage back to look at the puncture wounds. "Another rabid dog?" She looks at the man in disbelief.

"That's what the witness said."

"Why am I not surprised," She rolls her eyes.

* * *

On the other side of town, in a cemetery, Kennedy the Vampire Slayer patrols. Her mind wanders to the Bronze, dancing with the hot blonde from two nights before. Suddenly she finds herself face down on the ground.

She gets the breath knocked out of her momentarily. When she recovers she feels a hand grab her neck and force her onto her back. She pushes at the large vampire, she keeps his teeth from finding their mark with a straight right hand.

He flies off her and lands a few feet away. She flips up and soon they are face to face. Angry about being blind-sided she glares at the vamp. "You are so dust!" She declares as she kicks him in the chest and then as he springs to his feet, she stakes him. When the dust clears the Slayer grins, then scowls. She dusts off her pants but the grass stains aren't going away. "Damn! Now I'm gonna have to go home before I can hit the club."

Frustrated, she surveys the area. She fights to calm her senses as she gets a slight tingle. "Damn!" She mutters. "This is just not my night." Two large, greenish demons approach from her left. She growls softly and shakes her head. She rolls her shoulders and pulls out her crossbow. "Step up, don't be shy. Who wants to be first?"

They both charge at once. Her eyes get big then her heart pounds as the adrenaline hits her system. "Guess the two of you didn't learn to take turns. Figures." She lets three arrows fly. She hits each once but it doesn't seem to slow them down. She drops the crossbow and pulls out a sword. "Let's see how this works."

She swings and hits the closest one, a purple liquid oozes out. She makes a face at the rancid smell. She swings and connects again but the other decides to help out his partner. As the other demon attacks she hit's the first with the weapon for the third time and he crumbles to the ground, disappearing. Before she can celebrate the no muss no fuss self-clean up, the second demon's claw racks across her stomach. She growls, winces and then swings away. On the second hit he is felled as well.

As he evaporates like his buddy she sees the purple liquid on her skin around the claw marks and shakes her head as blood seeps from it. "Shit!" Leaning over she tries to compose herself. She picks up the crossbow-though bending hurts like hell, and starts toward her motorcycle. Each step she takes is a little more unsure. As she reaches the bike, she realizes she is shaking, a fever already burning through her. "No dancing tonight," she whines as her vision blurs and she climbs onto the bike. One hand over the wound the other on the handlebars she starts the Harley and pulls away.

* * *

Willow walks toward the lunchroom but stops as she sees paramedics running with a gurney. "More neck wounds?"

"Motorcycle wreck," the blonde woman states.

"Finally, something normal." She leads them toward the room, food forgotten for now. They put the woman onto the exam table, careful not to jostle her.

Kennedy is unconscious. Her lip busted, her face scratched and bleeding. The paramedics put her in a collar, as a precaution, at the scene.

The redhead checks her pupils, raising each eyelid. Dilated brown stare back at her. "Get me pictures. Neck - spine-" then nods toward a splinted right leg. "Leg too. Bring in a portable machine."

The tech nods and moves to the other side of the room to get the equipment. A nurse begins to remove her torn clothing to clean up the abrasions. "Better look at this Dr. Rosenberg."

The redhead turns and sees the claw marks across the unconscious Slayer's stomach and the red inflamed area around it.

The blonde paramedic looks at the redhead. "So much for your normal emergency room visit."

Her partner nods, "Think that was a dog too?" He asks the redhead.

She rolls her eyes. "I want that cleaned up."

"I'll get it first," the nurse replies.

"Thanks," she mumbles distracted as she bends to take a closer look. "Do we have a camera around here?"

"Cabinet by the door. We keep it for suspected abuse cases."

Willow walks to get it as the tech and the nurse work on the Slayer. The paramedics start out the door and the blonde speaks, "See you later."

"Bye Tara." She glances her direction, then turns her attention back to the patient.

* * *

Willow walks out of the exam room two hours later. She makes her way to the waiting area. "Kennedy Rodriquez family?" She is surprised to see a lone woman, teenager possibly, stand. "I'm Dr. Rosenberg."

"I'm - how is she?"

"She's got a fractured left leg and she is still unconscious."

The tall teen nods, "Can I see her?"

"Soon, we're moving her to a room."

Again the taller girl nods. "Okay." She walks away to stand next to the door she saw the redhead come out of.

Willow watches the girl, then walks to her. "Your sister-"

"She's not my sister. She's - well we're friends. Mostly friends. We work together. Oh, I'm sorry. I'm Dawn, Dawn Summers."

"Dawn, why don't we get some hot chocolate?"

Dawn frowns feeling as if the woman thinks she's a kid. "I'm 19."

"Is 19 too old for hot chocolate?" Willow asks confused. "Because well I couldn't live without it." She smiles at the teen.

Dawn rolls her eyes. "I'd love some chocolate, if you're sure it's okay for you to go. I mean if Kennedy doesn't need you to check-"

"Kennedy's in good hands for now, then we'll check on her together."

Dawn nods and they start toward the cafeteria.

* * *

Willow watches as the tall brunette drinks her second cup of hot chocolate. She thinks about the injuries she has seen in her weeks on duty here. She decides to ask the woman. "Does Kennedy have a dog?"

"Kennedy?" She shakes her head. "Now way. She's not that responsible the poor thing would starve." She frowns. "Why?"

"She has an injury not consistent with her motorcycle accident. Marks, across her stomach. Looks like some strange nail print maybe."

Dawn tenses noticeably. "Ah... Well maybe she slid across something."

"Yeah, guess that could explain it."

Before she can continue, her name is called over the loudspeaker. "Dr. Rosenberg, you're needed in room 314 stat! Dr. Rosenberg-"

The redhead stands. "I have to go."

"Is that Kennedy?" The doctor turns to go. "Is it?" Dawn's hand on her shoulder stops her.

"It is, but stay here."

"I'm coming with you." Dawn states and follows her.

* * *

Willow enters the room to find the brunette pulling out I.Vs and trying to stand. "I need to go."

She goes to her and tries to calm her. "Whoa! Sit back down." She puts a hand on her shoulder but the Slayer pulls away.

"You can't keep me here." Kennedy states.

"I can-" she looks toward the orderly, then the woman. She tries a soft smile. "Lie down, let me make sure you don't have a concussion."

"I don't. I'm fine." She sits on the side of the bed, suddenly dizzy.

"Dizzy?" Willow asks.

"No," lies the Slayer.

Dawn runs in and sees Kennedy sitting up. "Should have known you were giving them trouble." She smiles at the Slayer.

"Why are you here?"

"I'm on your call if... list. The one that includes you trying to drive through trees."

Kennedy groans, "How bad's my bike?"

Dawn looks at the redhead who shrugs, then back to Kennedy. "I'm gonna stay about as banged up as you are. Now get your ass back in bed before I tell them to give you a shot."

Kennedy growls at her Watcher. "I hate shots."

Willow smiles with a needle in hand then looks from the Slayer to the orderly. "Then lying down would be good right?"

Kennedy does what she is told though she doesn't want to. She meets the green eyes of the doctor and smiles a little as she takes in her features. "You gonna join me doc?"

The redhead blushes and steps toward the bed with the needle still in hand. She mock glares. "That's against the rules."

"Right... rules. Never liked them. Hating them pretty much now."

Dawn rolls her eyes. "I think I'm going home. If you can flirt, you're not gonna die and I have class in," she looks at the clock and groans. "Four hours."

"You're gonna leave me here? Come on Dawnie-"

"Don't call me that."

"Dawn, okay, Dawn please make them release me."

"Not happening, grumpy. You're mine till I get back all the pretty pictures we took of your neck and head."

"Tell her she won't find anything." She looks back to Dawn.

Dawn laughs, "No, definitely nothing in her head."

Kennedy moans. "Get the hell out of here. Some friend you are."

Dawn steps closer and touches her shoulder. "I'll come by after my morning class."

Kennedy closes her eyes as she feels a twinge in her stomach. Willow steps forward as she sees the woman's hand start toward her stomach wound.

She stops the hand, touching her wrist. "It's infected a little, but the I.V. antibiotics should clear it up." Kennedy nods not opening her eyes as the doctor puts the I.V back in Kennedy's arm. "That is if you leave it in this time."

"Whatever you say," her pain worsening just a little.

"What something for the pain?"

"No." Kennedy opens her eyes. "It's nothing."

Willow looks at the younger woman. "I'll let you talk for a few minutes before you go." She touches Kennedy's forehead with her hand and can tell she still has a fever. "I'll order something stronger for the fever." She leaves.

"Demon?" Asks her watcher.

"Yeah. Big, green, fought in pairs. Oozed smelly purple stuff and had claws like knives." She lets her eyes close again.

"Did any of the purple goo get into the wound?"

"Not sure, maybe," Kennedy says opening her eyes slowly. The dizziness returning, she closes them.

"Tell me what they looked like, I can research before class."

"What about your beauty sleep?"

Dawn grins, "Don't need it."

Kennedy laughs a little before the pain causes her to stop. "They were about six feet tall..."

* * *

Two hours later Kennedy's fever has spiked at 104. Willow watches as the woman tosses in a fitful sleep. She moves to her and puts a hand on her shoulder. "Shhh-" she tries but the restlessness continues. She gets a wet cloth and puts it on Kennedy's head. After a few minutes of that with no results her gets a hypodermic, fills it with more antibiotics and injects it in the area around the wound. "That'll make you feel better."

Kennedy settles a little a few minutes later. The redhead checks her temperature but it is unchanged. She walks across to the chair and sits down. "Who needs sleep," she says with a half grin.

* * *

An hour later the door opens and Tara walks in. She shakes her head when she sees Willow curled up in the chair. She walks to her. "After 36 hours on, this is how you start your 12 hours off?" She whispers.

Willow opens her eyes and smiles at her friend, "Can't get her fever down." She stretches and stands. Tara follows her over to Kennedy. The Slayer mumbles, sweat covers her face. Willow checks the temperature again and it is mostly unchanged. "I've hit it with everything."

Tara raises the covers, the side of Kennedy's gown, then the dressing to see an angry looking red blaze around the marks there. "Damn-it looks worse not better." Her eyes meet Willow's.

"Is it swollen?" She asks as her fingers survey the area with gentle fingers.

"It looks like it might be." She looks unsure then shakes her head. "Damn! I've missed something, some internal damage."

"I doubt that's true, but let's get her back to an exam room," Tara says softly. "Recheck her just so you don't spaz."

Willow rolls her eyes, "I don't spaz-" she lays the I.V. bag on the Slayer's chest.

As they roll the bed out into the hall Willow stops and looks at the blonde. "Tara, not that I'm not glad you're here to help, but why are you here?"

Tara smiles a crooked half smile, "Well, when you didn't show up for dancing-"

Willow eyes get big and she groans, "I stood you up."

"Well, not technically, cause it wasn't a date but, I did have to dance without you."

"I'm so sorry," she whines.

"It's okay Will. I know how you get, all wrapped up with patients. It makes you a good doctor."

"Maybe a good doctor, but a lousy friend. I'm really sorry Tara."

"Let's go check out the red puffy wound." She grins.

* * *

Dawn puts a book on the growing stack and picks up another one. She rubs her eyes and then turns the pages reading slowly. She turns page after page then grins, "Got ya, you oozy critter." She reads the text then rereads it, her playfulness leaves. "This is so not good!" She reads the text aloud, hoping maybe the words will change. "Their claws deposit eggs which grow in the host-" She growls. "Slayer-" she moves around the room gathering supplies. Tucking everything into her backpack she runs to the door.

* * *

In the exam room Willow probes the area around the wound. A small round shaped object surfaces just in view. "What is that?" Asks Tara as Willow lifts it with tweezers.

She shakes her head and moves across the room toward a microscope. Tara follows.

Kennedy mumbles in her sleep. "No... no... don't... gotta-" she groans in pain as the other eggs that had surfaced burrow their way deeper inside the area.

Chapter 2: Mom-ma

Slipping the slide under the microscope, she focuses it. She makes a perplexed sound and Tara smiles, then speaks. "What's up Doc?" She giggles a bit.

Willow looks up at her friend and rolls her eyes, "That was really bad, just so you know. And I'm not sure what we have here exactly." She looks back down at it. "It's not debris from the wreck... It looks-" she stops and refocuses. "I think it's... Take a look."

Willow moves and Tara looks at the object under the scope. Her eyes widen and she starts to speak, "Willow-" Before she can finish they hear a loud crash in the hallway, then scrambling feet and frantic voices. "Now what?" Tara questions. She and Willow start for the door together.

When they reach the hallway they see two bodies on the floor and blood on one of the walls. A little further down is a pile of dust. "What happened?" Asks Willow as she and Tara rush to the injured.

A man in a uniform speaks. "Gang member on PCP - he attacked them when they tried to treat him. He ran away, but my partner is after him now."

Willow begins to give orders. Stretchers arrive and they take the men to the E.R.

* * *

In her room the Slayer screams in pain, the once small eggs are now large inside her. She grabs her aching stomach with both hands and watches in horror as she sees them moving, the taunt skin of her stomach showing their path. The next searing pain brings with it the realization that they want out.

She tries to sit up but can't- the first gash rips across her abdomen and she screams, "Dawn!" A second follows, the pain caused by the tearing of her flesh, markedly worse.

Dawn stands in the room, her hand soothes Kennedy, brushing her cheek. "Hey. It's okay, I'm here. Wake up."

The Slayer's eyes spring open, her breathing rushed as she tries to take in her surroundings. "Dawnie." She forces herself to calm.

"Kennedy, I need you lift up your shirt."

The Slayer fights a wave of fear. "But it was a dream right?" When Dawn doesn't answer Kennedy pulls the shirt up, they both look at her stomach to see it is indeed a bit larger than normal. "Get'em outta me!"

"I'm going to try, but," she works on the ingredients. "They're more advanced than they should be. It should be days before they grow this much." Kennedy rips off the bandage and then tries to probe the area. "Don't." Dawn stops her hand. "You'll make it worse."

"Not likely. They'll rip me open if they-" she stops as she sees Dawn reach a cup toward her.

"Drink it all," she states, as Kennedy does she begins to chant, then rubs a mixture over the area.

Kennedy groans in pain. "Damn!" The eggs move inside her. "Shit!" The pain gets steadily worse. "Something's not right."

"No no, it's doing what it should. It's killing them and they're fighting back." She soothes a hand over Kennedy's shoulder then begins to mix again. The pain worsens and the Slayer curls her legs to her chest as she rolls onto her side. "One more Slayer, come on." She helps her sit up and holds the cup as she drinks it down.

Kennedy gasps as her stomach tightens. "Dawn!" Her body curls back into a ball, her arms hooking around her knees as she holds them to her stomach. Her injured leg forgotten as the Slayer begins to shake.

Dawn crawls into the bed with her and tries her best to hold her still. "Almost over, I promise. Just hold on."

Kennedy does just that, holding onto her friend for dear life as her body convulses. Finally the shaking stops. Dawn looks down at the pale, panting Slayer and presses her lips to her cheek. "Now, this next part's gonna hurt." She whispers in her ear.

"Next part," echoes the woman. "Like that part didn't?" Mumbles the Slayer.

"I need to get them out." Dawn moves from the bed and gets out a scalpel and tweezers.

Kennedy nods and moves to her back. "Just do it." The Slayer closes her eyes in pain as the cutting begins. Dawn begins to extract the eggs one by one.

The last, the one embedded the deepest, causes her to stop and look at her Slayer. "Kennedy-I have to stop."

"Did you get them all?" Dawn doesn't answer. "I'm okay Dawn, but I won't be if you leave that thing in me."

She moves so she can see the Slayer's face, and immediately regrets it. She sees the pain and desperation there. "Kennedy, its too deep. You need to be sedated first."

"That thing is gonna kill me from the inside. Just-" She looks and sees Dawn's worry. "I can handle it, if it gets bad I'll tell you."

Dawn growls, frustrated, "Damn stubborn Slayer. Okay, but you better-" she stops. Taking a deep breath she picks up the scalpel again. "Listen to me. Close your eyes and take a deep breath." Kennedy does as she's told. "Remember your training, the meditation?" Kennedy nods. "Now would be good. Find your focus, center yourself." Kennedy tries hard to do that as the cutting begins. She struggles to block out the pain as the instrument cuts deeper than before.

* * *

Later, Dawn is brushing back the Slayer's hair from her face as she sleeps restlessly. She is still noticeably worried about her charge - and friend. She removed four eggs and has spent the time since worried about the fifth one. She was not able to locate it and she fears it burrowed even deeper, deeper than she could possibly recover.

Willow walks in, chart in hand. She smiles when she sees Dawn. "How's she doing?"

"Her fever broke, but she's not resting well. Nightmares I think."

"That happens sometimes after a serious injury - The trauma." She walks to the Slayer and feels her forehead. "We had to take her back in and reexamine her last night."

"Anything serious?"

"A foreign object in the laceration. It caused an infection, which was causing the fever."

"Object?" Dawn asks, her hopes rising. Maybe, just maybe, it was the fifth egg.

"I'm not sure what it was exactly, but since we removed it she's doing much better."

"You still have it?"

Willow shakes her head, "I was examining it in the lab, but there was a problem in the hall. I had to take care of two men. When I got back, it was gone."

"Gone?" Dawn asks unsure.

Willow nods, "I wouldn't worry about it. I'm sure it was disposed of in the proper manner."

"Right. Sure, it's just, she likes souvenirs." She looks to Kennedy and back to the redhead. "She'll be disappointed."

Willow grins at her patient. "Figures."

"Dawn?" Kennedy says softly.

"Hey." Dawn moves closer.

"Did you-are they-"

"Sleep, Dr. Rosenberg's orders. Right?"

"Definitely the prescription I had in mind. I'll check back on you this afternoon."

"K-" the Slayer's eyes close.

Willow looks at Dawn then hands her a card, "My pager number. If she needs anything, call me."

"Thanks, enjoy your day off."

Willow nods, not explaining that most of it is gone. She leaves quietly.

Kennedy speaks, "She gone?"

"Yes, but I need to go too. Will you be okay?"

"Are they all out?"

"Yes."

"I'll be fine, just gonna sleep."

"Once they're destroyed I'll be back."

"'K." her eyes close.

Dawn presses her lips to Kennedy's forehead. "I won't be long." She slips out the door.

* * *

Later, as the injured Slayer sleeps, the door opens and Tara walks in quietly. She looks around the room and then to Kennedy's bed. After she is sure they are alone, the blonde leans down and whispers in her ear. "Slayer."

Kennedy's eyes open and she smiles a little as she focuses on the blonde. "Tara."

"Got something for you." She holds up a container with the last egg inside. "I thought you might want to get rid of this before your doctor friend runs tests on it. Think explaining it away would be difficult."

"Yeah, thanks," Kennedy smiles at the thought of the doctor. "She doesn't wanna be friends though." She closes her eyes for a few seconds, the pain still bad. She takes a deep breath and opens her eyes again. "Some damn rule or something."

Tara grins, "Like that will stop you." She rolls her eyes.

"She's hot."

Tara presses a hand to Kennedy's forehead, "But you're not and that's good."

Kennedy mock glares, "Hey! That's not what you said last week." A smile finds her lips.

"Forget about it, Slayer. We're not going there."

"Mmmm but it was... It was nice."

Tara nods, "Can't argue that, but-"

"I know, you want serious and I-"

"It's okay. I knew what I was getting into. Just realized I wanted more."

Kennedy reaches out and takes her hand. "Still friends?"

Tara smiles, "Friends. Save me a dance or two?"

"Definitely." Her eyes drift closed again.

"Kennedy," Tara starts. The Slayer forces her eyes open and meet Tara's. "Willow, Dr. Rosenberg, when you go out with her... Don't break her heart."

"She won't go out with me." Her eyes close.

Tara walks to the door. "Yes she will. No one can resist you... vixen." She smiles and walks out the door.

* * *

A few days later, a mostly healed Slayer sits on the corner of her bed, dressed, ready to leave as soon as the paper work is finished. Willow walks in and smiles at her, "Anxious to leave?"

"I think hell yeah would be a good answer."

Willow smiles, "Well then I guess this is good bye." She hands her the papers.

"Doesn't have to be." Kennedy grins up at her.

Willow rolls her eyes, "You don't give up do you?"

"Just not in my nature," the Slayer winks. "How about we meet for mochas, a thank you?"

Willow shakes her head, "Really can't."

Kennedy stands, "Then, thanks for fixing me up."

"Use the crutches," Willow states as she picks them up from the bed and hands them to the woman.

The brunette shakes her head, "Don't need'em."

"At least till you're out of my sight. Please?" She raises an eyebrow.

"Fine," Kennedy takes them and stands with them under her arms. "Better?"

The redhead nods. "Take care of yourself."

"Do my best." Kennedy goes toward the door as it opens.

Dawn looks in, "Ready?"

"Looks like," her words are a little sad as she looks toward Willow. She looks away and goes out the door.

Dawn looks toward Willow, "Don't worry, she'll be fine."

"She isn't use to being told no is she?"

Dawn smiles, "Not so much." The teenager waves as she leaves.

* * *

A week later the antsy Slayer is sitting in her apartment. Her stomach still sore from the cutting, her demon experience still fresh in her mind. Those thoughts however are interrupted by the face of the beautiful redhead. She shakes her head and stands with just a little pain. She goes to the window and looks out. The setting sun makes up her mind for her. "Time to kill something." She picks up her stake, a dagger and a short sword after slipping on her jacket. She goes to the door and opens it, then growls as she sees Dawn.

"Back inside." She pokes her on the shoulder.

"I'm the Slayer, it's time I slay." She tries to go forward but Dawn pokes her in the stomach to prove a point. "Damn it!" She almost doubles over.

"Knew you'd try to sneak out. You're not ready." Dawn says as she helps her back inside. The Slayer sits on the couch-the pain still playing on her face. "I'll get the painkillers," her Watcher whispers and leaves the room.

Kennedy lays down and curls up, the position eases the hurt. Dawn comes in and hands her a glass of water and two capsules. The older woman takes them without protest. "I can't just lay here. It's driving me crazy."

"I figured, give the pills time to kick in and we'll go get dinner."

"Not hungry." Kennedy mumbles as she lets her eyes close.

Dawn looks unsure, "Kennedy?" The Slayer doesn't open her eyes. "Talk to me."

"Forget it, I'm fine."

Dawn sits on the floor next to the couch not wanting to jiggle it. "Still not sleeping?"

"How'd you know-" she groans as the words slip out.

Her Watcher smiles sadly, "Nightmares?" Kennedy nods, her arm moves to cover her face. "It's okay." She moves to sit next to her, carefully hugging her. "Wanna talk about them?" She doesn't get an answer. She lies down beside her Slayer. "How about I just lie here and you try to sleep?"

"Not sleepy," Kennedy states though her eyes are already closed. As Dawn cuddles against her she feels herself slipping into sleep.

"Sleep," whispers her Watcher. "I'll keep the bad dreams away.

* * *

The next morning Kennedy wakes but is uncertain as she feels someone next to her. She looks to see Dawn curled against her and smiles. She touches her cheek. "Thanks," she whispers.

"Your welcome," comes the teen's unsuspected answer.

"You're awake."

"Have been for a while. Sleep better?"

"Yeah." Her stomach growls before she can say anything else.

"Why don't we get breakfast and talk?"

"Can't we forget about the talking?"

"Nope. Need you to tell me about the dreams." Dawn sits up. "They might be important."

"They're not." Kennedy sits up without as much pain.

"Let me be the judge. You're a great Slayer but researching, well, not your strong suit."

Kennedy stands and glares playfully, "That your way of saying I'm not smart?"

"No, just saying you're better at other things."

"You got that right," she smirks.

Dawn rolls her eyes and stands, "Still got that extra toothbrush?"

Kennedy just smiles, then rolls her eyes. "What do you think?"

"Think there's a good chance. I know you, always prepared." Dawn laughs and starts toward the Slayer's bathroom.

Kennedy sits back down. She pulls up the shirt and looks at the angry scar that crosses her stomach. She blows out a deep breath as she wonders why it hasn't healed, gone like the others from that night.

* * *

The Slayer and her Watcher are having breakfast. Kennedy is working on her third plate from the all you can eat buffet as Dawn watches. "You can eat all day, but we're still going to talk."

Kennedy doesn't look up from her food, "It's always the same, they tear their way out of me. Then, well, before I die I see them start on you and then the Doc."

Dawn takes a deep breath. "Kennedy they're all gone. I destroyed all the eggs. How exactly did you get the fifth one by the way?"

"My secret," Kennedy smiles a little.

"I'm guessing an old girlfriend, though the fact she still talks to you surprises me a little." Dawn grins.

Kennedy rolls her eyes, "Not everyone I hook up with hates me after." They are quiet again after some giggling. Dawn stands to get some fruit. "Dawnie, the dreams... This isn't over." She looks up at her Watcher.

Chapter 3: We Meet Again

Dawn still worries about her, afraid her charge hasn't told her everything she needs to know. She sits in her study researching the creatures. As she reads the last text she has on the demon her suspicions are proven correct. She stands with the book in hand and begins to pace. "The victim may suffer nightmares for extended periods, when there are more demons in the area."

Dawn goes to the phone and picks it up, dialing. She waits as it rings and becomes frustrated when she doesn't get an answer. She looks up at the clock. "Training." She rolls her eyes, picks up her keys and goes out the door with the book in hand.

* * *

An hour later Dawn finds Kennedy not at the exclusive club the Council has taken control of, but a local gym that Dawn is sure the brunette uses to pick up women.

The Slayer however is unaware of the men and women that are checking her out as she beats on the heavy bag. Sweat pours from her body as she continues to train. She has been working non stop for over two hours, ignoring the pain in her stomach as she tries her best to relax.

Dawn walks toward her, she watches her Slayer's face as she gets closer. The anger there scares her. "Kennedy?" The girl continues to hit the bag.

"What do you want D?"

"I just... I found out something about the demon."

Kennedy stops, leaning against the bag, her breathing heavy. "What?"

"There's more of them."

"Can't be. Those eggs would be hatching all over."

"The nightmares, they mean there are more."

Kennedy shakes her head and walks away. "I need a kit with the stuff you gave me. And ah... a scalpel- make up about five of'em. I'll talk to some people see what they know. Meet ya at your place right before dark."

"You okay?" Dawn touches her arm.

The Slayer pulls away, "Peachy." She walks toward the locker room.

* * *

Kennedy stands in the living room of Tara's house. "How can there be nothing? The book said-" she stops and turns away.

Tara looks up at her friend from her seat on the couch. "Maybe they can't find a suitable surrogate?"

The Slayer shakes her head as the probable truth hits her, "They've found a way to keep them hidden."

Tara considers her words, "That's... Yeah that makes sense." She can feel the tension build in her friend. "What now?"

"Now-" Kennedy stands, "I find them and I kill them."

"And the women they've infected?"

"Just hope I find them in time." She stands and starts for the door.

"Let me help?" Tara says as she puts a hand on the Slayer's shoulder.

"Not this time blondie, I want you safe, and this? This isn't safe."

Tara nods, "You'll keep me in the loop?"

"Usually do, don't I?" Kennedy manages a smile.

"You really want me to answer that?" Tara smiles back, a gleam in her eyes.

"No," Kennedy shakes her head. "Watch yourself out there Tare."

"Always." She closes the door behind her friend after watching her go down the walk.

* * *

That night the Slayer patrols her usual places but adds in the areas surrounding the campus, the library and the hospital. She finds nothing other than the normal demons and vampires. As she stakes them she takes out her frustration. The beatings they take before becoming dust border on ferocious, she is unable to control her anger.

The next night and the night that follows brings more of the same. Exasperated by the fact, she stalks toward her motorcycle and home. Once there she removes her clothes and stands under the pounding water of the shower. It isn't much help in melting the anger away. As she exits she towels off and moves to her room. She slips on her boxers and a tank.

Going into the kitchen she fixes herself a few sandwiches, grabs a couple of waters and a bag of chips. Walking to the living room the tired Slayer sits on the couch and takes the first bite. As she does she hears a knock at the door. With a soft growl she sets the food down and goes to the door. After taking a calming breath she opens it to find Tara there.

"Tare-"

"Get some clothes on." She smiles.

"You use to tell me to take'em off." She smirks a little.

Tara rolls her eyes. "Key word there-"

"I know, I know, 'use to.' A girl can't have any fun."

"Sure you can, that's why I'm here."

Teasingly she begins to raise her tank, "Make up your mind." She winks as Tara blushes.

"Go. Clothes, Bronze, lots of dancing." Tara manages. Kennedy starts to shake her head. "Don't even. You're being all work and no play Slayer and enough is enough, it's time to have some fun. Maybe even get lucky." Kennedy's eyes twinkle at her words. "Not with me," Tara clarifies.

"Fine," she pouts and moves toward her room. "Give me like ten minutes."

"Take as long as you need." Tara says as she picks up the sandwich and takes a bite.

Kennedy calls out from the other room, "Put down my sandwich woman!"

Grumbling the blonde whines, "How'd you know?"

"Slayer ears." She yells back. Tara drops the food and rolls her eyes, then with a little smirk picks up the chips and begins to munch. "That crunching- so much quieter," Kennedy teases.

* * *

At the Bronze Kennedy drinks a fruity, umbrellaed drink as she watches Tara dance. The blonde is having a good time and it makes Kennedy smile. She downs the rest of the glass and sets it down. She looks up surprised as she hears a familiar voice.

"Is the leg keeping you from dancing?" Asks the redheaded doctor now standing in front of her.

"Ah- no, just taking a break."

"Long break, haven't seen you out there at all." Kennedy shrugs. Willow points to the chair. "May I?"

"Sure," Kennedy says, her eyes going back to Tara before settling on her new companion. "So you were watching me?" A little smirk finds her face with the words.

The doctor rolls her eyes, "In a purely patient/doctor way. Wondering if my work was good."

"Right," Kennedy's playfulness gone. She can't seem to figure out the woman in front of her, she just threw her for a loop again. The younger woman just can't get a read on her.

"Then your leg is healing well?"

"All better doc, no worries."

"We should probably dance, just to make sure. I don't want you coming back ten years from now screaming lawsuit."

Kennedy's mind wanders at the word scream, as she imagines making the woman scream in other ways. She turns her flushed face away and takes a focusing breath. "Yeah, we probably better. Put your mind at ease and all."

"Exactly," says the doctor as she stands and so does Kennedy just as Tara walks toward them.

"Hi," Tara smiles at Willow.

"Hey," she smiles back.

"Glad you could make it." Tara grins.

Kennedy raises an eyebrow. Her mind trying to decide if she should be mad at Tara or thank her for setting them up, pretty sure that's what is about to happen.

"I'm gonna head home. Call me later?" Continues the blonde.

"Home? Alone?" Kennedy seems worried.

"Didn't say that." She blushes as Kennedy grins. "Didn't say that either. Dirty mind." Her eyes go to the woman at the door and the other two look that way as well. "You know Jessica."

Kennedy nods, "Sure you don't want me to-"

Before she can finish Tara shakes her head. She leans in and kisses Kennedy's cheek, then whispers. "I'll be fine. Go, have fun." With those words the blonde is gone.

Kennedy looks at Willow and the redhead's eyes meet hers. "So, about that dance?"

Willow nods and they walk onto the dance floor as they do the music changes to a slow song. Kennedy looks unsure but Willow speaks. "We could wait."

"No, it's okay. Unless-" Kennedy stops, thinking how weird it is that she's so unsure of herself with this woman.

Instead of talking Willow simply lets her arms slip up and arm Kennedy's neck. Kennedy steps a little closer and wraps her arms around the doctor's waist. They begin to move to the music, though both seem a little nervous.

As the slow beat changes to fast, and the next song begins they separate and continue to dance. Five songs later they move toward the bar and then the table with their water. As they drink a settled ease seems to come over them. "So," Kennedy says with a smile, "Leg seem okay to you?"

Willow smiles, "Seems fine." She frowns just a bit.

"What?" Kennedy asks unsure.

"Maybe I should get a second opinion." A smile plays on her lips.

"Maybe you just need a closer look?" Kennedy raises an eyebrow and smiles, a little flirt in her words.

Willow shakes her head though her eyes say the opposite. "Not sure about that at all. You are technically still my patient."

"All better, trust me." She lets her hand brush against Willow's.

"Why don't you drive me home and then tomorrow I'll make you an appointment with Dr. Joseph."

Kennedy frowns, "Appointment?"

"He clears you, then you wouldn't be my patient anymore." Both smile at the implications of her words.

"I like how you think Doc." Her smile fades.

"What's wrong?" Willow inquires.

"I can't drive you home." Her fingers still play on Willow's hand.

The doctor smiles, "Afraid I won't behave in a professional manner?"

Kennedy smiles and shakes her head. "Tara drove."

"We do have a problem then," she looks in thought.

"Cab?" Kennedy tries.

"Hate cabs. Stuffy."

"I could walk you home." Kennedy offers.

"That works," Willow smiles and together they go toward the door.

* * *

A few blocks from the Bronze, near the park, the girls walk. With a little smile Kennedy lets her hand brush against Willow's. The redhead smiles as she lets her hand twine with the younger woman's neither speak of the action just continue to walk toward the doctor's house.

A few more blocks away, the streetlight's not as bright Willow says softly as she looks up at the star-filled sky. "Beautiful night."

"From where I stand, definitely." She smiles.

Willow smiles too but then teases, "Are you flirting with me Miss Rodriquez?"

Kennedy stops walking and makes sure Willow's eyes follow hers to their joined hands. Their eyes then meet, green on chocolate. "If I was?"

"Well... well if you were, then I'd, well... it's tricky."

"Because you're my doctor?" Kennedy questions and then frowns. "Because you like guys? No, Tara would have told me if-"

Kennedy's words stop as she feels soft lips on hers. As the redhead pulls back slowly she speaks. "Monday okay?"

All Kennedy can do is nod, then a little smile finds her lips. "Monday," she breaths out.

Willow begins to walk again and Kennedy follows, their hands still joined.

As the Slayer's mind replays the kiss, then replays the kiss once more, she misses the rustle in the trees to their right. As she thinks about Willow's soft lips on hers her Slayer senses miss the action to her left. "Kennedy?" Willow's single word is filled with unease.

The other woman shakes the thoughts of more kisses away and stops in her tracks, her tinglies full impact. "Damn!" Mutters the Slayer. The vampires appear one by one in front of them.

"Kennedy what-" she starts to ask as their yellow eyes become visible.

"Damn!" She repeats as she gets in attack mode. "Stay close to me, just not too close."

"What's wrong with them that they're all deformed looking?"

The realization dawns on the Slayer, the woman with her, the woman she wants to get to know better, has no idea what haunts this town - or better yet what her calling is. "About that - Take a rain check on the explaining?"

"Ah... okay," she digs in her purse for her phone as the first one attacks without the assistance of the others and Kennedy's stake turns him to dust. Willow freezes as she watches the petite young woman fight and her adversaries disappear into clouds of dust.

As the Slayer fights, she keeps an eye on the redhead not wanting her to get hurt. "Stay close," Kennedy orders. "But not too close." The other woman nods and moves behind the brunette. A few seconds later another group of vamps approach. "Freaking unbelievable!" The Slayer growls. "This can't be happening."

"A gang. Are they part of a gang?" Willow questions.

Kennedy shakes her head as she hit's the vamp she is fighting hard with a roundhouse kick sending him back into the crowd. This knocks four more off balance and onto the ground. She turns to look at Willow, grabs her hand and pulls her toward the street. "Too many. I gotta get you outta here." They start off in a jog only to be quickly surrounded.

The leader speaks, "Not so fast Slayer."

Kennedy steps toward him, while pulling Willow directly behind her and close enough to touch. "You really don't wanna do this, not now." She stares him down.

"I really do. Been wanting to kill a Slayer forever, well okay, just 74 years but that's a long time." He grips.

"Slayer?" Willow focuses on that word not sure why. She trembles inside, fear gripping her.

"Again, explaining later okay?" Kennedy glances at her.

The redhead nods, hoping the promise of later means they're not going to die. "Deal."

Kennedy takes a deep breath, surveys the demons and the area before returning her attention on the leader. She begins to shake her head slowly. "No honor in killing a Slayer if you have all your lackeys helping. Now is there?"

The creature seems to consider the question, then looks at the others. "She's mine."

They grumble but back away just a little. As they do, Willow hears their growls and sees them bare their fangs up close and personal. She squeaks out a startled sound and falls toward the ground in a dead faint. Kennedy catches her and looks at the leader. "We fight she goes home safe," she states.

"Whatever you say."

Kennedy knows better than to trust the soulless demon but pretends to just the same. "Willow?" The woman starts to slowly come too and Kennedy holds her while she gets her bearings and her balance. They stand face to face. "You stand by the tree, anything happens to me, you run as fast as you can toward town." She points to her left.

Willow looks scared, "Kennedy IŠ" before the redhead can finish the fighting starts.

The vamp sucker punches the Slayer knocking her off balance. She however is able to keep her feet and duck his right hand. Kennedy shakes the cobwebs away and then glares. "Lucky punch and it might be your last one." She throws two quick rights, followed by a sweeping round house kick that sends the yellow-eyed fiend into the air. He lands with a thud against a tree not five feet from Willow. The woman shrieks and closes her eyes as he bears his fangs moving toward her. "Willow! Run!"

Kennedy sprints her way, but as she does she is cut off by the others. She stops to assess the situation and growls as she sees the vampire pull the redhead to him and lower his head, eyes on the Slayer. "This is gonna be almost as sweet." He smirks.

"Let her go or I'll-"

"You'll what?" Asks the undead creature. "Seems you're a little too busy to help."

Kennedy starts to fight her way to the doctor but stops in her tracks as a ball of light appears and travels toward the vampire. It hits and radiates out lighting the area. The shocked expression on the face of the their leader matches the one on the Slayer's features as the creatures of the night burst into flames and then ashes. "What the-" her words stop as she sees Willow start to crumble to the ground. "Willow!" With lightning speed she moves to catch her. She cradles the woman and checks her for injuries. Unaware of the eyes watching her from the now darkened tree line.

Tara stands unnoticed her hands still sparking just a little from the magic she used to save the redhead. Her breathing is rapid, her eyes searching, as she makes sure the area is safe for the other women. Finally the blonde moves steps into the clearing and toward the Slayer. "She okay?"

Kennedy looks up and then down at the redhead, "She fainted, again, but he didn't get his fangs in her." Kennedy remember why. "Did you see the flash of light?"

"Yeah. Let's go," she tries to change the subject. "I have my car, we should go before anymore show up."

Kennedy knows she should check out the area for the source of the light but she also wants to make sure Willow is safe. She lets her hand stroke the redhead's cheek. She stands with the woman she has fallen for in her arms. "Yeah, okay. Let's get her home. I can check this place out again later."

Tara moves toward her car and Kennedy follows with Willow in her arms. Not three steps later two vampires appear, without thought the blonde speaks as she raises her hand, "Peruro!" She commands and the fire leaves her hand lighting the sky before setting the vamps ablaze.

Kennedy looks on in wonder, "How did you.."

"Less talk more running," she says as more appear. Kennedy nods in agreement. The run and climb into the car as more attack. Tara starts the car and they speed away.

Kennedy glances at the blonde as she drives. "I think, Miss Maclay, you have some explaining to do."

The blonde grins her lopsided grin, "Figured. Later," she looks at the redhead in Kennedy's arms as she starts to open her eyes.

Kennedy smiles, "Later. Definitely."

Willow speaks softly, "Kennedy?"

"It's me, you're safe."

Willow's eyes slipped closed again. Her mind races with images and tries to make sense of the last few minutes but can't seem to do it. She sees flashes of the men, no not the right word her mind tries to tell her. Not men she thinks. What were they? Her always whirling mind questions. The thoughts continue, question after question arises but all Kennedy can make out is a soft, scared mumble.

The Slayer caresses her cheek, "You're okay." Her mind has thoughts of its own, maybe getting together with the doctor was wrong. Maybe it was too dangerous for the redhead. Maybe she should just stay away from her.

Tara speaks, "Don't even go there Kennedy."

"What you read minds too?"

Tara shakes her head, "Don't need to, to know what you're thinking. Something along the lines of her being better off without you?" Kennedy rolls her eyes not wanting to have this conversation. Tara continues, "Where would she be right now if she didn't know you?" Kennedy doesn't want to think about that question, the thoughts do come though - the redhead rising from her grave, fangs bared and the Slayer having to dust her. She shakes the picture from her mind as she growls softly. "Exactly," the blonde says simply.

"Bitch." Kennedy says teasingly as their eyes meet.

Tara grins, "Actually, witch would be more accurate."

Chapter 4

"Hey," she tries to focus. "What happened?"

Kennedy thinks about the question and all the answers she could give. The story used most often, gang on PCP starts to fall from her lips, "Gang-" but she stops. "Willow," again she stops.

The redhead sits up and pats the couch beside her. Kennedy sits beside her, "It wasn't a gang was it?"

"Kinda in the strictest since of the definition, a large group."

"A group of what exactly?"

"Well, see that's the part that makes people think I need a straight jacket and a rubber room." Kennedy says half-heartedly, then adds, "If they don't just run screaming the other direction."

"Promise I'm not running." Willow states.

Kennedy nods and starts her explanation, "You know when you were a kid and you were afraid there were monsters in your closet-or under your bed?" The redhead nods. "Well-there probably were."

Willow tries to digest the words. "Monsters?" This time Kennedy nods. "Monsters are real?" The Slayer nods again. "So in the park-monsters?"

"Yeah, Vampires to be exact."

"Vampires? With- with the blood sucking and the-the-" she stops. She takes a breath and starts again. "What happened to them? How'd we get away?"

"This-" she holds up her wooden stake. "And a little help from a big flash of light made them all go poof!"

Willow tries to take in all the information she has been given. She squeezes her eyes closed and holds her head in a hand. "I know it's a lot," Kennedy says softly as she tentatively lets one hand stroke up and down the redhead's arm.

Willow opens her eyes, "No! I- I mean yes, but," she cranes her neck. "Headache. I get them sometimes when I get-"

"Attacked by vampires," Kennedy says with a wink and a half smile.

The doctor manages a tiny smile of her own, "Stressed. Long hours, not much sleep."

"Ah- so take two aspirin and call you in the morning?" Kennedy raises an eyebrow.

She starts to shake her head but stops as the dizziness returns. "Bad idea-" she grabs onto Kennedy's hand to steady herself.

"Come on," Kennedy stands. The redhead looks up at her unsure. "I'll tuck you in and get you something for the headache, then let you rest."

The woman takes the hand offered her and stands up on wobbling legs. "World's a little spinny." Kennedy steadies her but then instead of letting her walk, she picks her up. "You- I- how?"

"All valid questions, or well parts of them," smiles the Slayer. "And I promise to answer them when you feel better."

"Okay." She snuggles into Kennedy's body without thought and lets her eyes close. "Bedroom?" Kennedy asks as she looks around.

"First door on your left." The doctor mumbles eyes still shut tight.

* * *

Kennedy comes back in the bedroom to find the redhead dozing. She sets the glass of water on the night stand and puts the pill bottle beside it. "Sorry the night ended like it did," says the Slayer softly as she lets her fingers brush the hair back from the woman's face.

Soft green eyes open in the dimly lit room, "Hmm-"

"Back to sleep green eyes," Kennedy smiles. "I'll check on you tomorrow."

Willow sits up slowly, "Stay." Their eyes meet. "Don't want to have to worry about you out there."

Kennedy smiles, "I'll be okay," she hands the doc the water and takes out two pills for her as well.

"Thanks," she takes them and hands the glass back after a second long drink.

The Slayer sets the glass on the stand, "Night Doc."

"Please," she takes Kennedy's hand. "Stay. I've got a nice comfy couch."

"It's not against any doctor/patient rule?"

"Not that I know of," she smiles as she lets her eyes close and lays her arm over her eyes.

"All right. I'll stay, should probably keep an eye on you anyway."

"I'm fine." Willow states softly.

"Of course you are." She tucks the cover around the woman and leaves the room quietly.

* * *

Kennedy stares at the ceiling as she lies on the couch. She just can't seem to find sleep. She keeps thinking about the questions and answers that still have to be discussed. She worries that Willow won't want to go out with her when she has all the information. "Worry," she mumbles. "Since when do I worry about women?" She runs her fingers through her hair. "I can have any woman I want."

Her mind sings back, 'Maybe, but you want this one. You know she's different too.'

"Different right-" she mutters back to the voice. "She's not different- how is she different?"

'You like her. She's not just a one or two nighter.'

"I don't do relationships." She grumbles back.

'If you want this one you will.'

"Shut up." She states as she buries her head under a pillow. "What do you know? You're not the boss of me."

Suddenly a scream fills the room and the Slayer is on her feet, hurdling the coffee table she runs into the hallway that leads to the redhead's bedroom. "Doc!" She calls as she enters the room, stake drawn.

The Slayer stops and puts the weapon into the top of her boot when she sees the woman sitting up in her bed trembling. She realizes it must have been a dream and calms herself down. "Willow," she says softly. Kennedy moves to the bed. :Just a bad dream."

Willow nods as she tries to slow her breathing. "Vampires," she touches her neck. "It bit me."

The Slayer shakes her head, "Nah, they wouldn't dare, now that they know I'm looking after you." She winks playfully trying to lighten the mood.

Willow rolls her eyes at the brashness of the young woman. Then she remembers the creature calling her a Slayer. "Kennedy, what's a Slayer?"

The younger woman looks down at the redhead, "Well, my watcher would go into this really long winded speech, the whole 'One girl in all the world... the Chosen One... blah-blah-blah.' Me, my answer is always I am. It's my job to keep people safe from things that go bump in the night."

"But how? I mean you're just-" Kennedy smiles as Willow finishes her thought. "One girl..." Willow looks up, her eyes shining. "Got it, but not." She frowns. "How can you fight-"

"Seems that with the whole 'One girl' title comes some pretty cool perks." Kennedy rolls her eyes, "Maybe Dawn's right." She frowns a little.

"Right?" Willow asks.

"I might be a little full of myself," when she gets a puzzled look from the woman she continues. "You had a scary night and here I am going on about how cool it is to be me." She grins at the last part and Willow smiles too. "You should sleep," the Slayer says. "We can talk tomorrow."

Willow shakes her head and lets her eyes close for just a second, "Not so sure I want to sleep if those icky vampires are gonna show up again."

Kennedy lets a hand brush along her cheek, "I'll stay here, keep'em away if you want." She looks toward the chair in the corner.

Willow thinks about her words and then nods, only she surprises the girl by scooting over and patting the bed beside her. "Here's okay if you don't mind."

Kennedy smiles, "Don't mind at all." She sits on the bed next to the redhead. "Now, sleep."

The doctor moves closer leaning her head against Kennedy's shoulder and snuggles close. The woman explain, "Shoulda warned you, I'm a snuggler."

Kennedy wraps an arm around the woman, "Snuggle all you want, just get some sleep."

"K," Willow says softly. She lets her body mold to the girl and her eyes close.

A little later the Slayer smiles, resting her head against the headboard. She can tell by the even breathing the doctor is sleeping. She lets her eyes close as well, her senses taking in the woman around her. Soon she drifts off too.

* * *

The next morning brown eyes open slowly. She starts to sit but can't completely. She smiles as she feels the woman now lying on top of her, then fights back a groan as the redhead snuggles against her chest, head between her breasts. She can't stop her hand from stroking down the woman's back and back up. She feels her stir slightly.

Willow's eyes slowly open and fights back panic as she realizes she is on top of someone. She relaxes as she remembers the night before. "Morning," she says her voice husky with sleep. Soft green eyes lifting to look at her pillow.

"Morning," Kennedy manages as she tries to keep her body in check.

"Am I too heavy?" Willow asks as she starts to move away.

"No," says the younger woman. "Not heavy at all just-" she smiles. "Been a while since-" she lets the words die.

Willow blushes as she realizes the problem, "Oh-" she squeaks out as she moves next to the girl. "Sorry, but I warned you, about the cuddling and well sometimes I -" she stops unable to speak the rest of the admittance.

"It's cool." Kennedy says as she turns onto her stomach and faces the woman, "Trust me I wasn't complaining Doc," a smirky smile finds her face. "It was... nope wasn't complaining at all."

The doctor blushes more, "So... the Slayer perks?" She asks changing the subject so quickly its surprising they didn't get whiplash.

Kennedy smiles, "Smooth- not," she rolls her eyes. "But I'll let you off the hook this time." She lets her fingers brush against the redhead's arm. "Slayer perks, there's a lot of'em."

"Should I get paper and pencil to make a list?" Willow wiggles her eyebrows as she turns and lies on her stomach as well, face toward the brunette.

"Don't think it'll be necessary."

"Waiting," Willow says with a teasing smile when Kennedy becomes too quiet.

Kennedy who had gone back to the feel of Willow's body against hers returns to the here and now. "Oh, sorry. Got sidetracked." She wiggles her eyebrows and Willow rolls her eyes. "Perks, hmmm where to start?" She looks around the room. "Well, really good eyesight and hearing, for one and sense of smell too."

"Interesting." Says the doctor. "What else?"

"I heal really fast."

"Noticed that," she confirms. "Just thought it was my great medical treatment though." She grins with a wink.

Kennedy smiles and to the doctor's surprise grabs the woman and begins tickling her. "I have really good reflexes. Very quick. So I can tickle torture those who need it."

"So not fair," gasps the redhead as she tries unsuccessfully to get away. "Using your powers for evil." She pants out.

Kennedy begins to laugh and finally stops with the redhead under her. Both get a little nervous when they realize their positions. The Slayer is the first to speak, her lips not far from the doctor's. "Let's get breakfast, my treat." She says as she kisses her nose playfully and pops up and off the bed. "Not necessarily a perk, but Slayers are always hungry." And as if on cue, her stomach growls loudly.

Willow smiles and rolls over and off the bed. She stands in front of the younger woman and to Kennedy's surprise she feels fingers play against her stomach. "Poor Slayer, we better feed you then." She lets her hand tangle with the Slayer's. "Give me a few minutes to get dressed."

Kennedy nods, "Not a problem, promise I won't starve." She grins. She starts to walk out but Willow still holds her hand. She looks at the redhead and then down at her hand and back.

"Sorry," she says with a blush and lets go.

"Don't be sorry, holding hands really nice." She leans in and kisses her cheek, then her hand before moving out the door.

The doctor smiles at her as she watches her go, then shakes her head. "Yep, can't fall for the normal girl, have to always do things the hard way. Slayer. Wow!"

* * *

Kennedy finishes her fifth plate at the all you can eat breakfast bar. Willow is totally amazed. "Where do you put it? Why aren't you as big as a house?"

"Now see that's the perk, really high metabolism. I just burn all the calories away."

"So not fair," pouts the redhead.

"The perks make the life and death stuff bearable." She smiles as she eats another pancake.

Willow looks sad, "The life and death stuff- it happens a lot?"

"No. Just, with the slaying, it's always out there, a possibility y'know?"

Willow nods. "But you're careful?" Hope in her voice.

"Not as careful as Dawn wants me to be, or Tara, but as careful as I can and protect the people I'm suppose to protect. It's my calling, what I do."

"Well add me to the be more careful side okay?"

"Done," Kennedy smiles as she pops the last piece of bacon into her mouth.

Willow's hand reaches forward and takes hers. "Want some more eggs and bacon? I'll get it for you."

"Nah," she looks at their joined hands. "Think I'll just sit here a while." She smiles up at the redhead.

Willow smiles and the talking continues.

* * *

Later that day Kennedy is getting dressed. There is a knock on the door. She walks into the living room in her leather pants her shirt half buttoned, her boots in her hand. She opens the door to find Dawn there. "Hot date?"

"Actually yeah," she smiles then frowns. "I don't have to cancel it do I? No doom and gloom news?"

"No, just hadn't heard from you in a few days and I thought I'd check on you."

"Still nothing new on the damn demons so I thought I'd take your advice and have some fun."

"Really, and who are you planning on having fun with?"

Kennedy smiles as she thinks of Willow. "Willow," she says simply.

"The blonde from the club?" Dawn asks unsure.

"Nope the doctor from the ER," she grins.

"How'd you manage that? I thought she said no because of the doctor/patient thing?"

"No longer her patient so she said yes." Kennedy pulls on her boots as she sits down.

"Might wanna button the shirt too," Dawn grins. "Or not, it's your date." She winks.

"You're as bad as Tara," she growls playfully as she buttons the shirt.

"When are you picking her up?" Dawn asks as she sits down across from her Slayer.

"I'm not," Kennedy looks at the clock, "Still no wheels, though. They had to custom order the bike. So, she's picking me up in about ten minutes."

Dawn smiles at Kennedy's words. Never in all the years she's known the girl has she ever let a date know where she lives. "Here? Well, that's new."

"Yeah," Kennedy nods. "It is."

"You really like her." Dawn smiles bigger.

"I think I might, yeah." Kennedy blushes a little, "It's different for sure."

"Good for you." She stands.

"Where you headed?"

"Home, do some Watchery stuff." She smiles, "Call me tomorrow if you're not too busy." Her smile turns to a smirk.

Kennedy rolls her eyes, "Go away." She playfully pushes her to the door and as she opens it she sees Willow there. "Willow-" she smiles surprised. "Hey."

"Kennedy." Willow looks at her with a raised eyebrow.

"You know Dawn?" She asks and Willow nods.

"Hi, Dr. Rosenberg." She smiles at the redhead.

"Hi. Was I interrupting?"

"No," Dawn shakes her head.

"She was just leaving." Kennedy states and Dawn waves at them as she goes toward her car.

"What was all that about?" The doctor asks.

"Teasing, it was all about teasing." Kennedy pouts playfully.

"Awe was she picking on the poor little Slayer?" Kennedy nods. "Big bad Watcher, we'll get her back later."

"'K," Kennedy smiles. Then taking Willow's hand. "Come on in, I'm almost ready." She closes the door behind them.

* * *

Tara opens the door to her apartment to find Dawn standing there. She is a little surprised. "Dawn, hey, didn't expect to see you tonight. I thought you were going to stop by Kennedy's and make sure she wasn't slaying."

Dawn comes in and smiles, "Seems she had other plans, a certain redheaded doctor."

Tara smiles too, "So it worked, getting them together last night, good."

"Yep very good." She leans in and kisses the blonde softly, Tara's arms wrap around her waist.

"Mmm that's nice." She leans in for another kiss. When they separate she touches Dawn's cheek with her fingers. "So since Operation Help Out the Cranky Slayer is over, what are we going to get into?"

The younger woman grins, "Bed?"

Tara blushes and gives her the patented Maclay half grin. "No arguments from me." She kisses her again as she backs them toward the bedroom.

* * *

The date ending, Willow and Kennedy stand just inside the Slayer's door. With a soft touch the redhead moves Kennedy's hair back from her face and leans in kissing her softly. "Night," she presses another kiss to her lips.

Kennedy's arms slip around the doctor's waist as she pulls her a little closer and they share another series of soft kisses. "Night." They look into each other's eyes and the younger woman speaks again. "Careful out there."

"I will be." The redhead assures the Slayer.

"Straight home."

"Promise." Willow says as she bites her bottom lip.

"And call me when you get there?" Kennedy asks.

"You worry a lot," she says with a little smile.

"Maybe you should stay, so I don't?" Kennedy raises an eyebrow.

Willow contemplates her words and slowly shakes her head, "Hmmm first date- thinking not." She looks into dark brown eyes.

"I have an extra room. I just don't want anything to happen to you." Kennedy brushes the back of her hand down Willow's cheek and back up.

The doctor leans into the touch, then smiles. "I'm a big girl, I'll be okay."

Kennedy nods, "Okay, but call."

"I will," she leans in and kisses the Slayer. Their lips begin to move together as the kiss deepens. Tongues brush tentatively against each other and Willow follows Kennedy's back into the young woman's mouth. Finally needing air they break apart. Trying to slow her breathing, "Night."

Kennedy licks her lips and smiles, "Night." She opens the door and Willow goes out slowly. She waves as she goes to the sidewalk and gets into her car. The Slayer waves back. "Wow!-That woman can kiss," she groans wondering about what else the doctor is good at. Closing her eyes as she shuts the door.

* * *

Across town in Tara's apartment the young couple rock together slowly, the pace increasing as they grow closer to falling. The phone begins to ring, "Shit!" Growls Tara as she hears it. "Better not be work."

"Don't stop," gasps Dawn as the rocking slows momentarily.

"No stopping," promises the blonde though the rocking does. She begins to kiss down the younger woman's body, teasing at her breasts then sucking greedily on each before moving even lower.

"Please Tara-" Dawn begs.

Her lips reach their target and her tongue strokes against Dawn's clit, as the answering machine picks up.

"This is Tara. I'm busy right now, leave a message at the beep." The machine recites.

As the EMT latches on to Dawn's bundle of nerves and sends her over the edge screaming her name the message starts: "Tara, just wanted to thank you for setting me up last night. I owe you big."

Both blush as they realize who it is and Dawn buries her face against Tara's shoulder as she calms and the blonde snuggles into her.

"Well, night. Hope you're out having some fun." The answering machine kicks off.

"Definitely having fun," Tara smiles as she lets her hands roam Dawn's body.

"We so gotta tell her and soon." The Watcher says softly.

"We will, promise. Soon." They share a soft kiss, then the blonde groans as Dawn starts to kiss down her body.

* * *

Kennedy puts the phone on the hook and as she does it rings. She smiles and picks it up, "Home already?"

"Not exactly," Willow says.

Kennedy hears a knock at her door, "Hang on a sec, someone's at my door." She goes to the door and opens it smiling as she sees the redhead. "So, did ya get lost?"

"Kinda, lost in you." Willow admits with a blush.

Kennedy smiles and leads her inside. She closes the door behind the doctor and then looks into her soft green eyes. "So whatcha thinking Doc?"

"Thinking I'd like to check out that extra room."

"This way," she shows her to the room . "Be right back," she disappears as Willow looks around. "Here ya go." She pops back in with a pair of boxers and a tank top. "There's a toothbrush in the top drawer."

"Lots of over night guests?" Willow asks with a raised brow.

"Lots of overnights," she admits shaking her head. "But not for a while, and never here."

Willow looks at the girl and lets a smile find her face, "So what do you say we both get changed and have a talk about overnights?"

"I'd say that's a plan." With a soft kiss she looks into green eyes, "Meet ya on the couch in ten?"

Willow nods as she bites on her bottom lip, "Yeah." The Slayer leaves and the doctor stares at the clothes in her hands. She thinks about her life, her plan to stay out of serious relationships for a while and chuckles to herself. "Damn!" She mutters, shaking her head knowing she is already mesmerized by this young woman. "So much for slow and cautious..." She begins to slip off her clothes.

Chapter 5: Discoveries

"You're welcome," the doctor answers back as she sits down next to her. They both take a drink, then Kennedy sets both glasses on the table. Willow raises an eyebrow in question.

Kennedy leans in and lets her lips brush against the redhead's once, twice and then three times before she finally pulls back completely.

The doctor smiles as her eyes meet Kennedy's. She lets her fingers trace along her date's cheek and into her hair as she pulls her back toward her lips. This kiss is firmer, till finally lips move together. When the kiss ends, air a definite issue, their foreheads press together.

Kennedy finally licks her lips and finds her voice to speak, "I ah-I've never-" she closes her eyes to work on slowing her breathing, though with the woman so close she doesn't have much luck. "Like I said before, lots-lots of woman but never... what I feel when I'm with you." She opens her eyes to see the surprise on the face of the redhead.

Willow blushes but smiles at the woman as they share another kiss that instantly deepens, Kennedy moans and Willow takes the opportunity to let her tongue come out and play. She slips it inside Kennedy's mouth, tentatively caressing, then finds more courage as she explores every spot she can reach.

Her lungs starving for air, she breaks the kiss. She looks at the Slayer and both smile as the kissing begins again. This time it is Kennedy's tongue that does the investigating; she trails over and under the doctor's tongue as they begin to circle and battle playfully. Surprised the brunette groans out as the redhead captures her tongue and sucks on it.

When she lets go and the kiss ends they both pant strongly. "Seem to, to remember something in a conversa-sation about taking things slow?" The younger woman breaths out as she lets her eyes meet the dark green of the doctor's.

Willow nods, not able to speak just yet. Eventually she manages to pant her reply, "Did say that."

The Slayer smiles, "Just checking." She lets her hands rub up and down Willow's back.

"Thinking though... maybe I changed my mind."

Kennedy looks at her shocked at the disclosure. "Willow, what I said wasn't to get you to-" she stops when she feels the doctor's fingers on her lips.

"I know, it's just, it feels-" she caresses the younger woman's cheek. "It feels right."

Kennedy leans into her touch. "Yes it does, but there's still so much you don't know about me."

"More than you're a Slayer and a player; What else could there possibly be?"

Kennedy grins, "Doesn't seem there could be much that tops either of those huh?"

"I wouldn't think-" Willow kisses her lips again. "But you can tell me if you want."

"I'm rich-" she confesses as their lips separate.

"Rich?" Willow asks.

"Got my trust fund a few months ago, when I turned 21."

"Rich... that's what you were worried about?" She giggles a little. "You fight demons, you've slept with over a -" she shakes her head. "And being rich is what you were worried about telling me?"

"It makes people all-" she stops, then starts again as a frown forms on her face. "Growing up, I never really knew whether people liked me for me, or because my dad had money." She looks into Willow's eyes. "Not knowing was-" she stops as Willow's lips meet hers.

The redhead pulls back slowly, "Don't care if you have money. I got money too, so not an issue." She smiles, trying to reassure the younger woman.

Kennedy smiles too and lets her fingers brush back the hair from around the doctor's face, "Hmmm you do?" She cocks a brow.

Willow grins, "Wanna compare account balances?"

Kennedy shakes her head and lets her fingers glide down the woman's cheek, her neck and then back up. "No." She leans in and kisses her softly.

"Good, cause I got other plans." She kisses her again and then stands, a grin playing on her lips.

Kennedy looks up with a smile as she sees a hand reaching down to help her to her feet. She takes it and stands, they share a chaste kiss. "Sure about this?"

Willow speaks with a little blush, "Pretty sure."

"You change your mind, you let me know." Kennedy caresses her face with her fingers.

The redhead leans into her touch, "I will." She takes both of Kennedy's hands and places them on her waist, with a smile she wraps her arms around the woman's neck and the kiss that follows seems to last for hours.

* * *

Tara and Dawn lie tangled together in the Watcher's bed. Both sleep though the younger appears to be restless. Her eyes open and she looks around unsure. Tara's eyes open, "Dawnie, you okay baby?"

"Mmmm-" she answers.

"Bad dream again?" She asks as she pulls her girl tighter against her.

"Yeah," she closes her eyes then pushes the thoughts away. When she opens them again she smiles into Tara's. "Sorry I woke you up."

"It's okay," she kisses her softly. "Same dream? The eggy demons?"

"That's the one." She rests her head on Tara's chest. "I can't find anything else and I've reread all the books here, called the council... I don't know what else to do."

Tara's hand rubs her girl's back, and her lips kiss the top of her head. "You'll figure it out."

"Soon I hope, Kennedy's still dreaming too. She doesn't talk about it but I can tell."

Tara grins her famous lopsided grin, "We could ask Willow just to be sure."

Dawn frowns, "You think they're... she would have told me right?"

"Maybe. I mean we still haven't told her."

"Yeah, and we should, I should."

"You were right the first time, we should."

"Tomorrow? I could have her over for lunch."

"Feed the Slayer that's a good idea before telling her." Both smile but Tara's fades. "How do you think she's gonna take it?"

"With Kennedy you can't really tell but I think she'll be okay with it. I mean we're adults,we like each other."

Dawn smiles as Tara kisses her lips. "Categorically, without a doubt," whispers the blonde against her lips. She kisses her again as she turns the woman under her and begins to move down her body. "Let me show you." Dawn moans softly as Tara's lips confirm her words.

* * *

In Willow's bedroom, the couple stand at the side of the bed kissing. Kennedy pulls back and smiles as she sits on the bed. She looks up at the redhead who moves closer to her, now standing between her legs.

As the brunette's fingers begin to play with the buttons on her blouse the doctor smiles and steps one step closer, her hands tangling in Kennedy's hair as she pulls her head to her stomach.

The Slayer looks up before pressing her lips there, kissing and licking as each button is opened and soft skin is revealed.

Willow moans as she starts to get lost in the lips on her body. "Mmm- feels amazing."

Kennedy breathes out as she pulls back for a second, "You're amazing." Her lips returns to the woman in front of her and more skin is exposed. As the younger woman starts to run her hands under the blouse and up the redhead's back the doctor pulls away. Kennedy looks up confused. "I-ah-"

Willow shakes her head, "It's not you, okay? There's just something else you need to know."

Kennedy nods and looks at the woman who walks across the room. "Willow, whatever it is-"

The woman shakes her head and the Slayer's words stop, "I ah... my last relationship, well it ah-" she turns her back to Kennedy. "She... had a temper."

The Slayer growls, "She hurt you?" Willow nods. Kennedy stands and walks over to her, she slips her arms around the redhead's waist and the woman tenses an instant before she is able to relax into her embrace.

"I should have left the first time, but she promised-" Willow whispers as tears start.

"It's not your fault." She kisses her on the back of the head. "It's not." She holds her without words until the shaking stops.

Then after a few sniffs and a deep breath to calm her nerves the redhead steps away, her back still turned. I have ah, my back is-" she shakes her head and squeezes her eyes closed.

Kennedy fights the Slayer inside her that wants to take over, find this woman and teach her what a beating truly is. Instead, she steps back to her redhead. After a kiss to her head and then her shoulder she decides to try to play the confession off choosing to tell about her own battle scars. "Left some scars... well, let me tell you about scars." She moves in front of the redhead and stripes off her own shirt. The move itself bringing a tiny smile to the older woman's face. "This one-" she begins with a tiny one on her upper arm, "Vampires with swords, so not fair." She moves on to her shoulder, "And this one, well, I landed on broken glass," she moves on. "Oh, and you know this one."

Willow lets her fingers trace the scar from the motorcycle wreck. "The wreck." She looks up at the Slayer.

"The claws of a very big and nasty demon." Kennedy corrects.

"Knew it wasn't from debris on the road," she mumbles.

"Smart lady," she leans in and kisses the redhead. "Smart enough to know that I don't care about scars." Willow looks down. The Slayer lifts her chin so that their eyes meet. "I promise no one will ever hurt you again."

Willow lets the tears fall, "She doesn't know where I am. I made sure."

"Lucky for her," Kennedy says softly as she pulls the woman into a hug.

The words soak in and Willow realizes what the young woman is implying. She lets her hands tease up Kennedy's arms and then down her back. She starts to walk them backwards to the bed.

Kennedy smiles as she feels lips on her neck, "Whatcha doing?"

"Thought we'd get comfy." Willow breaths back. She lets her shirt fall to the floor as she moves to the middle of the bed and Kennedy follows her there. They spoon together, Kennedy holding Willow's back to her chest. "This is nice," she says after a few silent minutes.

"Ummm it is. Could stay this way for a long time." She kisses Willow's neck.

"Me too, I feel safe with you."

"Cause you are." She pulls her closer, holding her tightly.

* * *

Kennedy is awake, the Slayer's eyes never closing as she has spent the night watching her redhead sleep. For the life of her she can't understand how anyone could hurt Willow, but the evidence is obvious. The scars on her back, proof of the pain she has suffered. She lets her fingers play over them one by one, trying to lessen the anguish the woman feels. Willow stirs but Kennedy's touch continues. She feels her tense slightly. "Go back to sleep. I didn't mean to wake you."

Willow turns her head looking over her shoulder as the Slayer continues to trace the scars. "Not sleepy."

When she has touched each injury with her fingers she brings them back and starts again. This time after her fingers travel the lines her lips follow as she kisses each one. Willow turns back around, as she tries to take in the actions of the girl, her girl-the tears start, as she unhooks her bra and turns to her stomach to give Kennedy all the room she needs.

The Slayer removes the final barrier as she kisses along the scars, pulling her lips away only long enough to whisper softly into the woman's ear she has grown to care about deeply, "She can't hurt you anymore," she promises as she hears Willow's tears. "You're safe."

The ritual of eliminating the hurtful memories continues as the redhead cries. Finally, as the morning light fills the room Kennedy pulls Willow into her arms, against her chest, letting her know she is protected. She kisses her shoulder and then her neck as she whispers her promise again. "Won't ever let anyone hurt you, not ever again."

A few minutes later, the redhead turns in the Slayer's arms. As their eyes meet Willow is surprised by the love she sees in the dark chocolate eyes. She is unable to speak. She simply kisses the girl's lips softly before burying her face into her neck. They hold each other tightly, words not needed.

Kennedy lets her hands continue to brush over the redhead's body. Her mind struggles with feelings she hasn't dealt with before. She smiles just a little as she wonders if this is what love feels like. She lets her lips press against Willow's head and lets her own body relax for the first time in hours. Soon both are sleeping.

* * *

Later the Slayer's eyes open slowly, she almost panics when she realizes she's in the bed alone until her Slayer senses picks up the smell of food. She allows a smile to cover her face.

Willow walks through the doorway in a robe, with a large tray of food. "Morning sleepyhead." She smiles.

Kennedy turns to the voice and smiles, "Morning."

As Willow sets the tray across the Slayer's lap she leans in kissing her softly, "Thought you might be hungry," she winks teasingly.

The Slayer's stomach growls and the redhead laughs. Kennedy pouts and Willow gives her another kiss. "Eat your breakfast, baby."

The Slayer lets her fingers touch the doctor's cheek, "You're not joining me?" The younger woman's pout return.

Willow sits next to her on the bed. "Better?"

Kennedy nods and begins to eat. She offers a piece of toast to the redhead, her redhead she decides as she smiles. "I could get use to this." She says as she watches the doctor eat.

Willow looks at her surprised but with a smile agrees, "So could I."

The happy Slayer kisses the redhead and begins to eat her food.

* * *

Dawn stands nervously in the kitchen the next day trying to finish up the lunch she is making for Kennedy. Finally tracking her Slayer down late last night they had made arrangements for lunch today. She had chickened out and not told Kennedy what she wanted to talk about or that Tara would be joining them.

When the smoke detector goes off for the second time the blonde smiles, turns off the oven and wraps her arms around the waist of her girl. Whispering into her ear she speaks, "We don't have to tell her today, not if you're not ready."

Dawn turns in her arms as looks into her understanding blue eyes and melts against her even closer. "No. I want her to know. I'm just, I'm a little nervous."

Tara smiles at the words and Dawn turns in her arms. The Wicca kisses her gently on the lips and then playfully on the tip of the nose. "Okay, then we tell her." With a lopsided smile she adds. "But you've gotta relax baby, you'll make her Slayery senses all crazy."

Dawn nods, knowing her girl is right. She takes a deep breath and blows it out dramatically causing Tara to smile again.

"Better now?" Teases the blonde.

The Watcher nods as she takes a step back from her lover and turns to her lunch. She finishes the last minute details as the doorbell rings.

"She's here." Dawn states, her worry returning.

Tara kisses her quickly and begins to put the food on the table. "Then you better answer the door." She smiles.

Taking another deep breath and blowing it out, the younger woman moves to the door. She wipes her sweaty palms on her jeans and then opens it, "Hey." She forces a smile.

"Hey," she fidgets at the nervous energy of the room then the smell of the food overtakes it. "Smells good."

"Thanks, come on in." They walk toward the table.

Dawn smiles as Tara comes back into the room and the Slayer looks surprised. "Tara?"

"Hi, Kennedy." She smiles then adds, "Haven't seen you for a few days. "How's Willow?"

Kennedy smiles, "She's good-"

"Good?" Tara asks with a teasing grin and even a nervous Dawn plays along raising an eyebrow.

Kennedy blushes at their misunderstanding, "Not good-" she sputters, "I mean fine, she's fine."

Tara nods, "Right." Her blues eyes still twinkle with playfulness.

Kennedy mock glares as she fights to keep a blush from rising in her cheeks. "She's working for the next thirty-three hours." A frown finds her face.

"The life of a lowly resident." The witch states.

Kennedy pouts, "Don't much like it," she confesses.

Dawn smiles and goes toward the kitchen, "I'll get the rest of the food."

"I'll help." The Slayer follows her Watcher from the room.

Tara smiles at the two of them. Standing alone she too begins to feel a slight case of the nerves sneaking in. "It'll be okay," she mutters to herself.

* * *

Later as Tara and Dawn finish eating and Kennedy takes another helping, the room gets strangely quiet. Kennedy looks up from her plate at the two women across from her. "Something wrong?"

"Wrong?" Dawn asks. "No-no nothing wrong." She over states.

Kennedy takes another bite and watches the nervous glances Dawn and Tara share as she chews. After a couple more bites she looks at them again. "Come on guys, spill-"

Dawn looks nervous but doesn't speak and Tara pales a little. "Is it the demons, more bad news?" She frowns as she over thinks in the silence. "Are there still more of those things inside me is that why the scar-"

"No! No," Dawn assures and Tara shakes her head as well.

"Then what?" Her Slayer senses are on full alert as she allows them to scan the room. She can hear their racing hearts, smell the salt of the nervous sweat, and something else, she tries to center herself and recognize the scent. As she does she tries to order her thoughts and understand what it is her discovery means. She looks from one woman to the over. Fighting down a smile she decides to have some fun. "Come on Dawnie, what is it?"

When her watcher exchanges another quick look with the blonde, the Slayer's eyes meet Tara's blue. "Tara-is there something you need to tell me?"

Tara swallows noticeably and she stutters, "T-t-tell you. We-well w-w-we," she looks at Dawn.

Dawn reaches across for her hand without realizing it, wanting to ease her lover's worry and her stutter.

Kennedy smiles when she sees their joined hands and as Tara sees her eyes landing on their hands she tries to pull away but Dawn doesn't allow it. The Watcher with newly found courage just smiles at her girl. "It's okay," she assures. When Tara nods slightly she turns her attention to Kennedy who is smiling triumphantly. "You're evil." She pouts at her friend.

"Me? I'm not the one keeping secrets." She looks from one woman to the other and watches as both blush.

"No, you're just the one figuring it out and then torturing us when you already know."

Kennedy grins and shrugs, "It was kinda fun."

She smiles at the couple and Tara rolls her eyes, "Meanie! After I set you up with your girl and then saved your sorry ass, that's the thanks I get?"

Kennedy looks at both women, "Sorry, I just couldn't resist."

Dawn swats at her Slayer playfully then rolls her eyes. She looks at her witch and leans in kissing her softly. "Neither could I."

Tara blushes and Kennedy smiles. "I'm happy for you."

Tara smiles relaxing a little, "Not upset cause we-" she stops as she sees the Slayer shake her head.

"Bridges and all that," Kennedy says softly. "Besides, you leaving me... it worked out, got me thinking."

Tara smiles and nods her understanding.

Kennedy raises her eyebrow at Dawn, "So how long have you two been-"

"Dating?" Dawn supplies.

The Slayer smirks, "Wasn't where I was going but that's a start."

She ducks another not so playful swat from her Watcher.

As laughter fills the room Tara answers, "About a month."

Kennedy is surprised, "Wow-" she thinks about the time frame. "So just after we-" she stops.

Dawn nods and adds, "She didn't know who I was and I can't keep track of the women you-"

"Got it... just, it's cool." Kennedy concedes.

Tara nods, "Though I'm guessing the keeping track won't be so hard now."

Kennedy can't stop the smile that covers her face. "You'd be right." Then the next revelation surprises all in the room. "I think I love her." All eyes turn to her. Kennedy grimaces a little, "I said that out loud didn't I?"

Dawn grins as she nods, "You sure did."

Tara smiles as she meets eyes with her friend, "How'd it sound?"

Kennedy thinks about her words and as she begins to smile she speaks, "Different, but-" she shakes her head. "Good." She states. "Scary but good."

Tara and Dawn both smile at her admittance then giggle at her next words. The Slayer asks, "Is there desert?"

* * *

Days pass and the Slayer's dreams continue. Though they research daily and Kennedy hunts the town each night they are still unable to locate the demons.

Kennedy and Dawn are sitting at the table in the Watcher's study with maps of the area. Kennedy points to a range of mountains to the west of town. "There could be caves in the mountains."

"Pretty rocky area, not very much traffic. Makes for little chance of being found." Dawn adds.

"Sounds like a good place to hide, I'll check it out. I'll give you a call when I get back." Kennedy stands.

"I'll go with you." She stands as well.

"No way in hell I'm letting-"

The Watcher's voice cuts off her Slayer, "You're not the boss of me Slayer," their eyes meet.

Kennedy can see the determination in the eyes staring back at her. "Fine, but if you go and get yourself killed don't blame me." She grabs her jacket as she starts toward the door. She states, "And don't expect me to tell Tara. I'm not breaking her heart."

Dawn stands unmoving at the words as she thinks about Tara for just an instant. She takes a breath and moves to get her kit and her jacket then follows her Slayer to the door.

* * *

The demons, still traveling in pairs search the darkness of Sunnydale for their next victims.

Go on to Part 2(Chapters 6-?)

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