Full House

See Part 1 for Ratings and Disclaimers

Holding On and Letting Go

Willow slowly shakes her head fighting to keep tears at bay. "She said my girl-" the tears start again.

Kennedy presses her lips to the back of her wife's head. She starts to speak but stops to actually think-which isn't always her strong suit. "Red-going out on a limb here. I'm guessing that's what you called Tara?" Willow doesn't answer but Kennedy can feel her body shake as the crying turns to sobbing. She tightens her hold on her witch.

Upstairs Aly and Annie are each on an extension talking to Buffy. "You're not serious," says Annie.

"Sorry," says the blonde Slayer- "Just Oz, Tara, and your mama."

"She never dated anyone else?" asks Aly, confirming the news.

"Not that I know of-but, I didn't know her till she was sixteen. I could have Xander call when he gets home from work."

"That's right he's known her since forever he has to have some dirt," says Annie. "Thanks Aunt Buffy."

"Anything to help-I think. Bye." the line goes dead.

In the training room Willow is finally calm. She is sitting facing Kennedy, her hands playing with first her sleeves and then the hem of her pants. "So what do we do?" Her eyes slowly meet her Slayer's.

"We talk to her and set some ground rules," she answers.

"You're saying we let her date?"

"No-but group things-maybe," She waits for the redhead to respond.

"Okay-group things," agrees the woman but her heart isn't in it.

Kennedy touches her hand- "I'm not sure I like it either but I'm afraid if we don't give just a little-"

"I get it-"

"My parents were so strict-it pissed me off Will and I lied to them and did some dumb stuff." They are silent then Kennedy continues, "I grew up too fast. I don't want-"

Willow leans forward and kisses her softly, "Let's talk to her."

As the witch and the Slayer cook, Aly and Annie make a salad. Erin and Ellie are setting the table. Alex walks in and shows his mama clean hands and begins to get out the glasses for drinks. Kristen and Kara get out both tea and milk and put it on the table. Things almost done Willow looks at Kennedy and nods as the younger kids leave the room to watch cartoons. "Annie can you keep an eye on the pasta and the sauces?"

"Sure Mama-" she says as she looks at her sister. 'Good luck' is her silent message and she hears a 'Thanks' in return.

Outside Willow and Kennedy sit in the porch swing while the nervous teenager leans against the banister in front of them. Her mama speaks first, "You like her?"

"I like her-" their eyes meet.

"She knows you're not allowed to date?"

"Yeah-" says the teenager.

"Your mom and I talked." Aly begins to fidget. She picks at her cuffs and then stares at her hands.

"She can come to the house to study twice a week," says the redhead.

"Okay-" a slight smile crosses her face.

"But one of us have to be home," adds Kennedy and the girl nods.

"And if some weekend you have group plans with friends-then-it's okay if she's there too."

Aly stares at them amazed. She had prepared for the worst, come up with every argument possible but had she heard right. "Group- we can go out with a group?" Aly finally sputters out.

Willow nods. Kennedy interjects, "But you are never allowed in her car."

"No car," Aly assures them. "Never-got it." She hugs them both as a few tears fall.

"We'll talk more after dinner," says Willow.

The teenager nods, "But for now-I can go?"

"Go call her-" Aly hugs them again and runs into the house. They hear both girls squeal and they smile.

"We did the right thing didn't we," asks Willow needing reassurance.

"I think so, she needs to know we trust her."

"You know what this means don't you-Annie-"

"She doesn't have a boyfriend remember?" she says with a smile.

"Maybe not now, but she will by the weekend," the redhead stands as she smiles. As she walks inside she misses the look of fear that crosses the Slayer's face.

"Damn-" mutters the woman as she stands too.

Later that night Willow is sitting on the couch in the den with Aly. She turns and faces her daughter as she crosses her legs in front of her. Aly smiles and moves to mirror her mom. "Did you talk to Sarah?"

"For a few minutes-she said thanks." They are quiet- "We really don't have to do this-I mean we've talked about y'know-" she blushes, "before lots of times."

"That was all hypothetical-in the future kind of stuff."

"Trust me it's still pretty hypothetical-"she says as she turns even more red.

"But now the future isn't as far away."

"I won't be fourteen for a month-we haven't even kissed yet."

"No?" She shakes her head. "I just want you to understand that you can come to me ask me anything.

"I get it Mom."

"Anything-I might blush-"

"Might?" She asks as they both are now a dark shade of pink.

"Okay-will blush but I'll give you an honest answer."

There is another long silence, then Aly speaks her voice hesitant, "How old were you when-?" Their eyes meet-green on green.

"Me?" the blush deepens. Aly smiles, "See blushing-but answering. I ah-I was seventeen almost eighteen."

"Where were you?"

"My room," her words soften as she starts to think back. "We were researching, trying to stop an apocalypse. We didn't plan it things just kinda happened."

"Were your parents home?"

"They were never home." Aly turns and leans against her mom. The redhead kisses the top of her head. "Anything else?"

"I'll let you know-" says the teenager as she lies in her mom's arms.

A few nights later Kennedy is tangled in the sheets watching her redhead sleep. She brushes a sweat soaked lock of hair behind the woman's ear and smiles down at her. She gently kisses her shoulder and her lips, then speaks- "I love you-" she snuggles against her. Soft skin touches soft skin and Willow's eyes slowly open. She smiles and stretches slightly. "Go back to sleep, I didn't mean to-"

"Yes you did," smiles the redhead.

"I did-" confesses the Slayer and Willow kisses her lips.

"I'm glad," she says as she pulls out of the kiss. The witch runs her tongue along her Slayer's bottom lip and it causes a soft moan. Their tongues caress as the kiss escalates quickly. "Slow baby-" says the redhead as her hands touch Kennedy's face and she breaks the kiss again. She repeats, "Slow." They kiss again not rushing. Hands explore, caress, and then ignite the bodies beneath them. "Yes-" she whispers as she presses herself into Kennedy's hands, "Just like that."

Later as their fight for control lost they fall together again. Fingers still moving pushing toward and other explosion, they cry out together. Lips meet, soft words are exchanged as they continue again their need still strong-unquenched. Kennedy moves down the soft pale body, lips touching-tasting along the way. "Goddess-" cries the witch.

Concerned she stops, "Red?"

"No-" she pleads. "Don't-don't stop-don't ever stop," are the redheads cries as her Slayer continues her journey.

A few days later Willow is sitting at her desk at the academy- She looks up when she hears a knock on her door and smiles when she sees Buffy with three lunch bags.

"Dawn and I are doing the lunch thing wanna come with? She says she has big news."

Willow stands, "Sure, I could use a break." They walk down the hallway and out in the courtyard. Dawn is sitting at a table waiting. They sit with her and Willow senses the nervousness instantly. "So Dawnie-oops, Dawn what's the news?"

Dawn smiles, "Promise you won't get mad?"

They both look at her unsure, Willow speaks- "The last time a sentence started like that I found out my daughter had been lying to me."

Buffy looks at Dawn and suddenly the young woman feels fifteen again, "Have you been lying to me?" asks he Slayer.

"Sorta kinda yeah-unhuh."

"About?"

"Derrick-" says Dawn.

"Is he evil?" asks Buffy. "Am I gonna have to stake him?"

"Evil-no, he's not, no."

Willow looks unsure, "But she didn't rule out the staking."

"Spill," says her sister.

"We-ah-well we-we got married."

"Married?" Buffy chokes on her soda and Willow pounds her back. "Did you say-" Dawn nods as the redhead hugs her-she then looks at the hurt in her friend's face. "Why didn't you tell me?"

"It just kinda happened-we were in Paris and he said let's get married and it was all romantic so-we did."

"But I wanted to be there."

"I know, I'm sorry."

"You happy?" Dawn smiles, "Then it's okay-are there pictures?"

"A few-I have them in my suitcase-I'll show you." Buffy hugs her and lunch continues.

Willow notices that the young woman is still a little on edge, "Dawn?"

"Yeah Will?" she looks up like a child with their hand in a cookie jar.

"Something else you want to tell us?"

"Maybe-yeah."

Buffy smiles as their eyes meet, "Are you?"

Dawn nods and bites her bottom lip, "I am-"

"I'm gonna be an aunt?"

"Yep." Buffy hugs her tightly as Willow smiles.

A week later Sarah is sitting at the counter in the kitchen while Aly explains the problem. Sarah shakes her head- "I just don't get it." She is getting frustrated. Kennedy looks toward them, she smiles when she sees Aly sit beside her. She puts a hand on her arm-Sarah eyes meet hers, "It doesn't-"

"Shhh-just listen one more time-then if-we'll try something else." Sarah nods. Kennedy continues to watch and listen unnoticed as her daughter goes through the process again. She breaks the concept down even smaller and walks the teenager through it. "Make sense?"

"So far-"

"Good- now," Aly smiles and moves to the next step.

Willow and Kennedy are finishing the meal as the girls finish their homework. Sarah stands, "Walk me to the car?" she asks Aly softly their fingers touching on the counter. Aly smiles and stands.

Kennedy looks at her redhead then the teenagers, "Want to stay for dinner?" Aly looks at her mama surprised and then smiles at Sarah.

"Ah-yeah I just need to check with my dad. May I use-" before the sentence is complete Aly has put a phone in her hand. The girls leave the room.

"What brought that on? asks Willow.

"I want her around-want to get to know her," says Kennedy. "I think I like her-"

She smiles, "Me too."

Dinner is chaotic as usual. There are four conversations going at once most of the time. Something gets spilled on someone and Kara complains about eating her vegetables. Amidst the diversions the mission starts, learn all you can about Sarah Gray.

When dinner is over Kennedy and Aly do the dishes while Willow talks with Sarah in the living room and Annie leads her brother and younger sisters through the days training routine.

"Thanks for asking Sarah to stay Mama," says Aly as she dries the dishes.

"Anytime's she's here she's welcome."

"You like her?"

"Kinda grows on you-" she smiles, "You know I was watching you explain the Trig-you're a good teacher."

"I try-she's smart-she's just got so much to deal with right now." Aly stops her words realizing she may have accidentally overstepped her bounds. The things Sarah told her about her family were told in confidence.

"Something not right?" Kennedy asks.

"Kinda-I can't say."

"You don't have to, but if we can help-"

"I know," they finish the dishes quietly.

In the living room Willow smiles as Sarah looks through baby pictures of Aly and Annie. "How could you tell them a part?"

"It was hard for a while-but after you were with them it got easier.

"Thanks for dinner it was fun-sometimes I wish I had a big family."

"Is it just you and your dad?"

Sarah nods, "Yeah for a while now."

"If you ever need girl talk you know- or to just talk-" says Willow.

"Thanks-but I'm okay-I mean better then-" before she can finish kids run through the room and surround Willow.

"Mommy can we watch cartoons before baths?" asks Erin.

"How about after baths-"

"Okay," concedes the girl and the four of them run up the stairs, Alex reluctantly follows.

Annie walks in and flops down in the chair with her legs over the side, Willow smiles, "Tired?"

"Oh yeah-" says the teenager. Kennedy and Aly come in the room too and sit down.

Willow looks at her Slayer, "I should help them with their baths or they'll make a mess."

"They'll still make a mess," says Annie.

"True- but it'll be an organized mess and that I can live with."

"I'll take Ellie then Erin-the bathroom closest to the stairs," volunteers Aly.

"I'll help too-little bathroom with Kristen and Kara-maybe I can hold them under a little while."

Both girls stand, "Thanks," says Willow.

Sarah looks at Aly, "See you tomorrow."

"You could help you know-" she smiles.

"I thought you liked her-" says Kennedy. Sarah laughs and both Kennedy and Willow realize it is the first time in all the weeks she has been there.

"Next time," says Sarah. "It's getting late my dad will worry." She stands, "Walk me to the door?" Aly nods and they leave quietly.

At the door Sarah touches her hand, "Night-dinner was fun."

"Yeah-bye." She opens the door and watches as the girl walk to her car and drives away. Aly turns as she feels a hand on her shoulder.

"Ready for this?" asks Annie.

"Oh-yeah," she smiles. "Payback-Ellie's mine." They smile and jog up the stairs.

In the living room Kennedy has moved to the couch beside her redhead. "I'll pay you if you go make sure Alex actually takes a bath," says Willow.

Kennedy raises an eyebrow, "How much and in what form?"

"I'll let you decide," the witch smiles seductively.

"I like that idea better than mine."

"What was yours?"

"We just pretend he's clean and we spend the next hour making out on the couch."

"Like that too. How about a compromise?" Again the Slayer raises an eyebrow. "Thirty minutes on the couch, then you check on Alex, after-I pay up?"

Kennedy leans in and kisses her, "Deal." She pushes the redhead gently down onto her back and then crawls on top of her. Willow pulls her into another kiss.

"You know someone could walk in-" says Willow suddenly worried. Kennedy simply deepens the kiss and the redhead stops thinking.

Feelings Oh Oh Oh Feelings

"Who knows-he just said she called and was coming by this weekend."

"You okay?"

"No-I don't want to see her Aly." The young Slayer takes the girl's hand and their fingers lace together. "She just left, no explanation just gone and now three months later she wants to what-? To say she's sorry?"

"Maybe-maybe she realizes she was wrong."

"You don't know her-she never-" Sarah shakes her head as she battles tears. "If she loved me how could she just leave me?"

Aly reaches out and touches the blonde's cheek. Sarah starts to pull away but instead leans into the touch. "Tell me how to help?" she asks softly.

"You think your parents will let me stay here till she's gone?"

"Sarah your dad won't-"

"I told him I wouldn't be there-I can't," the tears finally fall.

"We'll ask them but they'll want to know why?"

"I'll tell them-"

"You sure?"

"Yeah-" Aly wipes Sarah's tears away.

An hour later Aly and Sarah are sitting on the couch, Willow and Kennedy are sitting opposite them in the love seat. "One day she was gone-I mean she wasn't there much any way. She was always away on one business trip or another, some excuse to not be with us. I can't remember a birthday or school play she was at. I can't deal with her right now-things are just finally getting normal again."

"Sarah I really think you should see her-if for no other reason than to tell her how you feel," says Willow.

"It's okay I get it-I'll find someplace else," the girl stands and Aly looks at her parents.

"She didn't say no-" Kennedy says.

Willow continues, "You can stay, we have an extra room. But please meet with her."

"I can't promise."

"Promise you'll think about it?" The girl nods. Willow takes a step forward and hugs the teenager. "Thank you," says the redhead as she lets her go and steps back.

"For what?"

"Trusting us enough to talk."

"I should go home-talk to dad and I need to pack."

"We'll see you after school."

Aly stands and takes her hand without thinking, "I'll walk you out."

After they are gone Willow moves into Kennedy's strong arms. "You okay?"

"Hit pretty close to home." She holds her quietly. "Sometimes I wonder if she thinks about them. I sent baby pictures-birthday pictures-never a word. I don't need her anymore, but the kids they don't have a grandmother. Without my grandmother-there was no one."

"Until the Scoobies-" adds Kennedy.

"Till then-"

"They're still here-the kids have them too. It's enough it'll always be enough Will-" The kisses her on the forehead as she continues to hold her.

After school Willow is showing Sarah the spare bedroom. As the girl puts her suitcase down she looks unsure. "Hey-"

"She called again all weepy when I told her I wasn't gonna be there.- Like it's my fault."

"It's not your fault none of it-"

"It feels that way sometimes."

"I know-your mom and my parents they're a lot alike."

"Really-?"

"It took me along time to settle things in my head, in my heart, but I did and you can too."

"How?"

"Come sit," says the redhead as she sits on the bed. Sarah sits beside her.

Later there is a soft knock on the door, Sarah looks up to see a little girl there- "Ellie?"

"That's me," smiles the girl. "You remembered."

"What's up?"

"I was looking for a quiet place to read Erin is working on a science project and Alex is helping too much noise."

"Pretty quiet in here-what are you reading?" Ellie shows her the book as she climbs onto the bed beside her. Sarah reads the title, "How old are you?"

"Seven-"

"I didn't read that book till I was in eighth grade."

"Aly and Annie didn't go to eighth grade."

"You might not either-"

"I like school I want to go to all the grades." Ellie says as they both lean against the headboard.

A few minutes later Ellie looks up from her book, "Why are you sad?"

"Long story kiddo-but I'm better now, hanging out with you helps." The little girl smiles.

An hour later Aly looks in the room to see Ellie asleep on Sarah's lap, "I've been looking everywhere for her. Mom's about to panic."

"She's been here awhile-she fell asleep reading to me."

"I hope she didn't bug you too much."

"No-it was fun.- Is everybody in your family like super smart?"

Aly shrugs. "Ellie Mac-open your eyes."

"Nooo-" whines the little girl. Both teenagers smile.

"Dinner's almost ready." Finally giving up Aly leans over and picks up the little girl. Sarah looks surprised. "She's not very heavy."

As they are finishing dinner the phone rings, Kennedy answers it. "Hello-" she pauses and listens. "Sure just a minute-" she reaches it toward Sarah, "It's your dad."

She puts the phone slowly to her ear, "Dad-hi." She listens as he talks and her eyes meet Willow's. "Okay-tomorrow. Okay-I love you too." She turns the phone off.

Willow watches as she fights to stay composed, "Who wants to do dishes?"

"I will," volunteers Sarah. "Aly-want to dry?"

"Sure-" the kids clear their plates and put them in the sink.

"Training room in five anyone not on kitchen duty." says Kennedy with a smile as she leaves the room.

"Training room?" asks Sarah as the others clear the room.

"She's big into working out; we all have a program."

"Cool-"

"Most of the time," agrees Aly. "So you're gonna see her?"

"Yeah-you were right I need to tell her how I feel and just move on."

"Afterwards-if you wanna talk-"

"I know where to go." They wash and dry dishes in silence. "Aly do you think your mom would come with me?"

"If you want her to-"

"Maybe-" she says suddenly unsure.

"We'll talk to her when we finish."

Sarah helps with baths, momentarily forgetting the worries of tomorrow as she laughs at the antics of seven-year-olds. She and Aly are as wet as the kids.

Later Aly walks to the door of the guestroom, "Hey if you'd rather stay in our room tonight Mama says it's okay."

"Bag it on the floor-that sounds good." She climbs out of bed and grabs the pillow as she does.

That night long after the light are out Willow gets out of bed. She checks on the kids- stopping last at Annie and Aly's door. When she looks inside she sees three sleeping teenagers. However she is surprised to see Annie and Aly sharing a bed and Sarah sleeping in Aly's. She smiles at the scene before her.

The next day Sarah stands nervously in the living room of her house. Willow is standing with her, "She's not gonna show," says the teenager. "I should have known-"

"Shhh-" says the redhead as she puts a hand on the girl's shoulder. "She's just a few minutes late."

Sarah's father walks in to the room, "I'm sorry about this Sarah-"

"It's not your fault Daddy. It's never been our fault."

The door opens and a woman walks in. Sarah looks a lot like her mother-the same blonde hair. "Karen-"

"Sorry traffic-" she supplies. Her eyes fall on Sarah and then look cautiously at Willow. "Hi Sarah."

The teenager doesn't respond and there is a strained silence. Willow again touches the girl's shoulder. "Hi-" she says.

"I thought we could go for lunch just the two of us."

The woman looks at Willow and then redhead looks at Sarah. She sees the uncertainty in her eyes. "You choose-" she says softly and Sarah's eyes meet hers.

The teenager turns to her mother, "No-we talk here, now."

Karen gives Willow an uncomfortable glance, "Fine-we can stay as long as we can talk." Her mom sits down on the couch and Sarah stands behind the chair on the other side of the room. Willow and her father turn to leave the room.

"Ms. Langdon?" She looks at the girl, "Could you-"

"No-but I'll be just outside the door." Sarah nods and watches them leave.

"Your dad already has a girlfriend?"

"No-she's my friend's mom."

"It was hard for me to get here, I thought you would have made a effort to be home."

"Why?-I mean you just leave and don't call for months and you expect everything to be okay?"

"I'm your mother-"

"That's what my birth certificate says, but not really."

"Excuse me?" The woman is offended.

"You had me, but you never-" her words stop as tears threaten to fall. "You were never here not when I needed you."

"Sarah Gray! How can you say such things?"

"Because they're true Mom."

"I'm not going to sit here and listen to this-" she stands.

"That's it-leave just like always," says the teenager as tears fall. "I needed you-" the woman looks at her, "and you were never here."

"I had my work-" the woman defends.

"And it was always more important than me-it was always first-" Sarah stands, "I was never good enough-"

"You're being overly dramatic-"

"I'm being honest-and you know honestly, just go-I don't need you-not anymore." The girl walks out the door and into her dad's arms. He holds her as she tries to compose herself. "I tried Daddy."

"I know," he says softly. "I know." Willow looks at the woman in the living room. It takes all she has not to tell her what she so wants to-but it isn't her place.

Later Sarah is playing a board game with Ellie, Erin, Kristen and Kara. She seems calmer, in control of her emotions. She smiles as the youngest twins argue over a move. She then talks to them settling the dispute.

Willow and Alex are in the backyard. They are sitting in the garden, "It's all connected-" she says to the young boy.

"The ground, the plants, us-I get that."

"Concentrate on being one-" says the witch as they begin their meditation. They have been working on his control and she thinks this is the best avenue to develop his focus.

In the training room Aly and Annie are sparring. They jab and defend. Kennedy watches closely correcting and praising as needed. Aly ducks a left hand only to be hit by a windmill kick to the face. It drops her to the floor with a thud. "Aly-" yells Annie. Kennedy starts toward her daughter but the young Slayer kicks to her feet before she reaches her.

"Let me see," says her mama, trying to get a good look at her left eye.

"It's okay," she says as she pulls away.

"I'll get ice," says Annie.

"No-let's finish this," the session continues. Aly angry, is now more focused and aggressive. She lands three quick rights that are partially deflected. Finally Kennedy stops them.

"Enough for today," says the Slayer. "Showers before dinner." The girls go toward the door.

In the hallway upstairs Aly walks towards the bathroom with her robe, a towel, and an ice pack on her left eye. Sarah sees her and is instantly worried, "What happened to your eye?"

"I wasn't paying attention-" admits the young Slayer.

Sarah reaches forward and touches the bruise with her fingers. A tingle runs through Aly's body and she pulls away confused by the sensation. "Does it hurt?" asks the blonde unsure.

"No-ah a little. I need a shower," Sarah takes her hand and again the feelings course through her. The tingle is intense it causes her to want to touch the girl, to never stop. She reaches out and touches Sarah's cheek with her free hand. Their eyes lock and Sarah is shocked at the need she sees in Aly's there.

Kennedy walks toward them and realizes what is happening. "Alyson!" Hearing her name she turns to face her mama, "Shower."

"Right," says the teenager as she moves away from Sarah.

After Aly leaves Sarah looks at Kennedy unsure, finally the Slayer speaks- "Would you do me a favor?"

"Sure-"

"Dinner's almost ready could you find the kids and tell them?"

"Not a problem.- Is Aly okay?"

"She'll be fine-see you at dinner." She turns and goes down the back stairs and into the kitchen. She speaks quietly to Willow as she stands next to her, "Remind me to ah talk to Aly about the -ah-the after slay Double Hs. If I hadn't gone up stairs just now-" she lets the sentence just end.

"I thought you talked about it?"

"Trust me when I tell you she needs the extended version. One more minute and well-"

"I don't need that picture in my head thank you."

"And I do?"

"It was that bad from just the work out?"

Kennedy nods- "Definitely gonna take after me." Willow blushes then smiles.

That night Kennedy has her oldest daughter on patrol in the cemetery on Grant. As they walk they watch around them, always ready to attack or defend. Finally Aly speaks, "Is this about upstairs earlier?-cause if it is I don't know what happened-"

"I do, it's another one of the Slayer things," says Kennedy. "The adrenaline that makes you stronger also causes your hormones to-" the Slayer stops, "I sound like you mom-" they both smile. "Let me put this in away we both understand." Their eyes meet- "Since I'm not big with the science thing it's like this, the slaying -or in your case the workout makes us horny as hell." Aly stares at her amazed by her words trying to let things soak in. Kennedy misinterprets and tries another approach, "Gets you worked up-"

The young Slayer's mind is reeling as she tries to comprehend the words. Did this mean-was that why her body had-she couldn't finish a thought. Finally she gets a sentence out or part of one, "The tingling and the touching was-"

"Yep."

"Wow-so I'll always want to after?"

"Always-pretty cool perk." Kennedy smiles and the teenager blushes.

Still trying to wrap her head around the information, "So if you hadn't been upstairs-you're saying we could have-"

"No, no it's not like that. It's not gonna make you do things you don't want to do." Aly blushes bright red and Kennedy's eyes widen as she realizes what her words reveal. "You want to-"

"Kiss her?-oh yeah-"

Kennedy relaxes her fear leaves as she fights to keep the smile from her face, "Kiss her right-" there is a pause, "so why haven't you?"

Aly is surprised by the question, "I just-she's older so I figure she should-"

"I get it-maybe you should talk to her about it."

"Maybe-are you saying you wouldn't freak?"

"Not if you're sure about it."

"Really?"

"Really-surprises me too, can't explain it. Let's do one more sweep and go home.

As they start around the cemetery again Aly stops- her body tenses and a buzzing sensation flows through her, "Something's not right," says the young Slayer.

"I feel it too-" they move back to back as two vampires appear to their right. "Think you can handle this?"

"Let's do it-" the vamps attack, the first is greeted by a punch to the face by the older Slayer and it staggers back. The second one is hit by Aly's front kick and it hits the ground.

The Slayers fight and before long the young one stakes her first vamp as Kennedy watches proudly- her moment ruined by a punch to the face, "Hey-have some respect that was her first proud Mama here." She kicks the vamp, flips over the headstone to get better position and then dusts him. She smiles at Aly but it fades as she sees her fighting another vampire. Before she can help the young Slayer well Slayer witch hits it with a blast of fire and he goes up in smoke. "Okay, not needing my help."

Aly smiles proud of herself but it fades as she sees three more. "Mama-"

"What did we do interrupt a social gathering?" cracks Kennedy.

"Dead guys' anonymous-" quips the young Slayer and her mama smiles as they fight again.

Two more join the fray and they continue to hold their ground. When the number reaches eight the Slayer begins to get concerned, "How are you doing Aly?"

"Under control," she kicks one and punches another but when a third joins in she finds herself lying on the ground surrounded by the vampires.

Kennedy has her hands full with four as she sees Aly fall- "Alyson!-" The teenager puts up a barrier around herself that repels the vamps. She then closes her eyes in concentration as she places one around her mama as well. 'Thanks- but what I really need is a cross bow-' It materializes in her hand a few seconds later. 'Time to level the playing field. Now!'

At her unspoken word the teenager drops the barrier as Kennedy fires three times dusting the vampires closet to her. The others decide to run but they can't escape as her next round of arrows takes out two more. The Aly now in the clear stakes one of her own-the last runs into the night. Kennedy runs to her daughter- "That was so cool!"

"Are you okay?" asks the Slayer her breathing labored.

Excitedly she answers, "Way better than okay-Mama that was awesome. We dusted nine vamps just us-nine. Wait till I tell Annie-and Mom."

"Why don't you let me tell mom first?"

"She doesn't know you took me slaying?"

"No-she knows; she just thinks this place is safe."

"So we weren't really doing a sweep, we were talking right?"

"That was pretty much the plan-but it didn't quite work that way."

"What?-we talked, we slayed, -now can we eat?"

"Eat?" she smiles "We'll take care of at least one of the Double Hs-"

"Double what?"

"Hungry and Hor-"

"Got it-" says Aly as she blushes.

Kennedy puts an arm around her shoulder as they walk- "You know, you should probably sleep in the extra room tonight after a nice cold shower."

"I had a shower-"

"Trust me, you'll want another one."

"Do I smell?"

"No but it'll help-"

"Right."

At home later Willow is upset, "Nine vampires?"

"You should have seen her she was great-" defends Kennedy.

"You said I'll take her to the cemetery, hardly ever any vamps there we'll talk."

"We did talk and I don't know why there was a reunion there, usually it's dead-"

"So where is she?"

"She's in the shower-a nice cold shower."

"Maybe you should take one when she finishes."

"Come on Red-it wasn't my fault-please don't leave me like this?"

"Is it bad baby?" She asks as she puts her arms around her Slayer and presses a chaste kiss to her lips.

"Really bad-" says Kennedy as the redhead back her against the wall. She gasps as she feels Willow's hands inside her shirt. She plays with the hot skin there. "God yes-"

"Feel good-"

"Ummm-" Her eyes close as Willow's hands slide up her body.

"Remember it-cause that's all you got today."

"Will-" she whines.

"What were you thinkin' taking her out where there were real vampires." The redhead turns and leaves the room.

Discoveries

"Okay-" says Aly.

"Just okay?"

"We started scheduling for next year's classes and it was not fun," says the young Slayer.

"No panicking sweetie, you'll get the classes you want," assures her mom.

"I told her that too, but she wouldn't listen. She's been like this all day." Both girls pick up an apple and sit at the table.

"Any thoughts about your birthday? Anything special you want to do or would you like me to surprise you?"

Annie looks at her sister with fear in her eyes. She whispers quietly, "You remember what happened last time she surprised us?"

"Yeah," whispers her twin, "Bad clown dreams for a month."

"No surprises Mom," they say in unison.

"So help me out-skating party, picnic, give me some place to start."

"We'll get back to you," says Annie. They both stand and start to walk up the stairs.

"By tomorrow please or I start planning," says the redhead.

The girls stop in their tracks, "You'll know by dinner," says Annie as they continue up stairs.

The redhead is still smiling as Kennedy comes into the room, "Have you been bad?" she asks as she too picks up an apple.

"Me?" questions the redhead innocently. "I'm never bad."

"Really?" Cause I seem to remember a certain night not too long ago- when someone was a little upset and they well-I took cold showers for a week," states the Slayer.

Willow's voice is soft as she moves to wrap Kennedy in her arms, "I thought I made up for that?" She blushes shyly as she looks into the woman's eyes. "Remember?"

"No-" says Kennedy playfully, "Could you remind me again?"

"Tonight," she kisses her softly, "Meet me on the balcony after bedtime stories."

"Do I get a story too?" asks the Slayer as her hands caress the redhead.

She gasps slightly, "Story?-If you want." She kisses her again.

"Mom?" They break apart and look down to see Kristen and Kara staring up at them.

"What is it Kristen?" asks the witch, her forehead now resting on Kennedy's.

"Can we go outside and play on the swings?"

"Sure-" says Kennedy and the girls go out the back door. "Where were we?"

Willow smiles, "Right about here," she leans in and kisses her again.

Again they are interrupted, "Mama-"

"What-?" says Kennedy as she pulls out of the kiss to see Erin and Ellie.

"Alex won't let us in his room," says Erin.

"You have a room-" states Kennedy, "Why do you need in his?"

"I want to play in there. He has really neat toys," says the child.

"Why don't you play outside?" suggests Willow.

"I'd rather draw-or read," says Ellie as she goes to the stairs.

Erin gives up now that she doesn't have an accomplice and goes outside. Kennedy smiles as she kisses the redhead again. As hands start to caress her body the Slayer moans softly her eyes closed. "Not sure I can wait till tonight Red," she says as she moves her lips to her neck kisses a path that causes the redhead to moan loudly.

"We can't do this here-" says the witch out of breath.

"Why?"

"Kids-don't want to have to-" her focus is lost; the words escape her as her Slayer begins to suck gently on her pulse point. "Oh goddess-" she moans.

Upstairs Aly and Annie are sitting on their beds talking about birthday plans. "We could do the skating thing," says Annie, "each of us invite a few friends."

"And I would break my leg," admits Aly. "Not so good with the skating." They are quiet till Aly comes up with another idea. "We could have a sleep over-"

"That would mean no boys-" says her sister.

"Your point?" says Aly playfully. "So when are you gonna tell them about Travis?"

"I'm not sure there's anything to tell-I mean we talk but I don't think he likes me like that."

"He so does," says Aly amazed that her sister hasn't figured it out.

"You know this how?" asks Annie.

"The look he gets when you're around."

"Really?" Annie says and Aly simply nods. "Wow-" she is quiet again. "How do I tell them?"

"Tell them?- I'm not sure," confesses Aly.

"You're a big help," teases Annie.

"Help with what?" asks her mama from the doorway.

"See I helped," says Aly as she stands to leave.

"Whoa-" says Kennedy, "Not so fast." Aly sits back down on her bed. "I asked a question."

Annie looks at Aly and then they both look up at their mama, "We were talking about the party," supplies Aly.

"And then we were talking about guys-well actually just one guy," Annie stops nervously- "Ah- Travis."

"Boyfriend?" asks Kennedy trying hard to remain calm.

"No-not exactly. She thinks her likes me but-" Annie answers.

"You like him?" Kennedy looks in her daughter's eyes and then smiles. "You like him," states her mama.

"I like him-" says Annie. "Okay?"

Kennedy nods, "Okay-you know the rules right?"

"Groups only, no cars, which isn't a problem cause he's my age so he can't drive."

"That's good-your age." There is an uneasy silence, "Then how do you know him?"

"The arcade-" says Annie.

"Right-"

Aly sensing the growing tension tries to change the subject, "Was there something you came up to tell us?"

"Dinner's ready," she forces a smile and the three of them start out of the room. Kennedy goes the opposite direction in the hallway, "Tell your mom I'll be down in a minute." As they go downstairs, she goes to her room.

Later, that's where Willow finds her. The Slayer is sitting crossed-legged on the bed looking through baby books. She is staring at a picture of all the kids. "Hey," says the redhead softly as she sits down beside her. "You okay?"

"Good-" says Kennedy. She points to the picture of Annie and Aly holding Kristen and Kara in the hospital just after they were born. Alex is standing beside them with Ellie and Erin, newborns themselves resting in carriers. "Remember this?"

"Yeah-" she takes her hand and their fingers lace together, "How could I forget," she kisses her softly. "I was so proud of you that day-your labor was not easy."

"Seems like yesterday," says Kennedy struggling for composure. "It was six years ago-"

"They're growing up-not babies any more," says Willow.

"Before you know it they'll be going to college or getting married or just moving out," states the woman. "I'm not ready for that."

"I think we have a while sweetie," her eyes meet Kennedy's and she sees the tears fall. "No-shhh-" she hugs her tightly. "When Annie and Aly started kindergarten I was a wreck-you told me they would always need us and it's true."

"They need us?"

"Even when they're in college or married with their own kids."

"Grandkids-" the Slayer smiles at the idea.

"Or when they go out with their first boyfriend." Willow nudges her and smiles. "This is about Travis right?"

"Travis what kinda name is that?" she frowns.

"Kennedy she's gonna invite him to the party promise to play nice."

"Fine-" she agrees begrudgingly.

"Come on-we like Sarah right?" Kennedy nods, "So the chances are we'll like Travis too."

"I guess."

"Dinner's getting cold."

"Not hungry."

"Like that could ever happen-next thing I know you'll be telling me you don't want to meet on the balcony later."

"Not a chance that's happening." She stands wiping her eyes as she puts the album away.

"Didn't figure," she smiles and they walk out of the room hand-in-hand.

Later that night Willow walks into Annie and Aly's room. The teenagers are in their pajamas ready for bed. "So what did you decide about your birthday party?"

"Just a few friends here-we'll act stupid, play games and eat way too much cake," says Annie.

"And open presents," adds Aly, "Can't forget the presents."

"Sounds good." She leaves quietly.

The day before the party Sarah and Aly are taking a Trig test along with the rest of their class. Aly is finished and has handed in her paper. She watches Sarah work and can see she is getting frustrated by the look in her eyes. Without realizing it she projects her thoughts into Sarah's head, her words are quietly there. 'Relax-you know this.' Surprised and unsure the blonde looks her direction as more words fill her head, 'I'll explain later, just relax and think it through.' Sarah nods and turns back to her paper. Suddenly the implications hit Aly and she gets nervous. Her mind races, she says to herself, "I'm so in trouble."

After all the papers are turned in Mrs. Jenkins addresses the class. "Remember to read chapter 12," the bell rings and she dismisses class. Sarah waits for Aly at the door.

"What just happened in there?"

Aly looks at the floor nervously as she tries to speak, "Ah -I-that-"

"That was you in my head," Aly nods, "How did you get in my head?" her voice is loud.

"Shhhh-I'll explain but not here okay?"

"When-where?"

"At lunch by the tree."

"The tree but Aly I-"

"I didn't mean- I'm sorry. Look I gotta go." She goes toward her class but stops and runs out of the building.

Forty-five minutes later Willow stares in shock at her oldest daughter standing in her office. "Aly-what's wrong?"

The teenager fights to control her emotions, "I did something really stupid."

"Other than cutting class you mean?"

"Class-awe damn-"

"Alyson!"

"Sorry-ever had one of those days?"

Her mom nods, "Come on," she stands and puts an arm around her daughter. "Let's call the school, then you can tell me what you did that was so stupid."

At lunch Sarah waits for Aly but she doesn't show up. As the teenager decides to go look for her she is Aly she thinks but as she gets closer she realizes it is Annie. "Annie-"

"Hi-Sarah where's Aly?"

"Not sure she was suppose to meet me but-"

"That's very unAly- did you two have a fight?"

"Not exactly-" the bell rings. "If you see her, will you tell her to meet me after school out front?"

"Sure," they walk away in two different directions.

Back at the academy Aly paces as she babbles in classic Willow style, "She was about to panic, I could see it and I was just trying you get her to relax. Cause she knows it, she really does and then I said relax and she heard me."

Willow trying to understand, "You talked during the test?"

"No-well sort of-in her head, she heard me in her head."

"You mean-"

"I mean-and she was freaked-understatement. I told her after class that I would explain at lunch then I realized I don't know how to. I don't know how or why she could hear me."

"So you took off?"

"Stupid thing number two-if she wasn't mad before she will be now." Willow watches her daughter continue to pace, "Why did it happen?"

"I'm not sure-there has to some kind of connection. Tell me again exactly what happened."

"Okay-we were in Trig-"

"Alyson-" she looks at her mom. "You have to sit down, no more pacing."

The teenager stands still, "What if she thinks I'm some kind of freak?" The tears begin to fall and the redhead moves to her and hugs her tightly.

"Shhh-it'll be okay."

School ends and Aly is standing by Sarah's car as she crosses the lot. The blonde looks at her unsure as she stops beside her. "Hey," says the worried teenager.

"Hey-I waited at lunch you didn't show."

"I'm sorry. I-ah-I needed to talk to my mom."

Suddenly understanding that this is serious, "You missed class this must be worse than I thought."

"She called and fixed it with them-now I need to fix things with you." They are quiet. Sarah steps closer to her, "I-I'm so sorry."

"Ready to talk now?" Aly nods, "Let's go to the park," she says as she starts to get in her car.

"Sarah-no cars-"

"Forgot-we can walk." She locks the door and closes it and they start toward the park.

Later in the park Aly is sitting in a swing and Sarah is standing beside her. The blonde starts, "How did you-I mean you were in my head."

"Swing with me-" Sarah sits in the swing beside her and they sway together slowly. "What I'm gonna tell you it's a little different."

"Got that-"

"I can-I've always been able to talk to my parents and my sister without-"

"Actually talking?" Sarah supplies.

"Right-" They are quiet again as Aly gives her a minute to process the information. "I saw you starting to panic-I knew if you relaxed you could do it-I thought relax and then-"

"Then you were in my head-"

Aly nods, "I broke the only rule-"

"What you didn't knock?" says Sarah a little sarcastically.

"Something like that yeah. I screwed up-I don't know why you could hear me-"

"But I did and I-" she stops swinging and stands.

"I get that you're mad or freaked or both but I didn't mean-" she stands in front of her.

"I need time-to think-it's just-I need to go." Sarah leaves as Aly stands watching. Tears begin to fall down her face.

At the house Willow and Kennedy are waiting for Aly to get home. Willow glances at the clock- "She should be back by now-" says the redhead. "It'll be dark soon."

"She can take care of herself-" they are quiet.

Annie walks in and sits down on the arm of the chair, "Still no word?"

"No-" says Kennedy.

"She's gonna be wrecked if Sarah doesn't wanna see her anymore, " says the teenager.

"Sarah will handle it better than that-I think-" says the redhead.

"Let's hope," says Kennedy.

About that time the door opens and Aly runs straight up the stairs. "They all look at each other and Willow stands, "I'll check on her."

"No-ah let me Mom," says Annie. The woman nods and sits back down beside Kennedy. The teenager jogs out of the room.

Doubting their decision Kennedy speaks, "We should have told her no from the beginning and this wouldn't have happened."

"Hey-we did the right thing. Sarah was good for her even if-"

"Getting your heart broken is never good Red." Kennedy stands.

"Where are you going?"

"I need to hit something-" she says as she starts to the training room.

"Kennedy-" the Slayer stops and Willow walks to her and puts a hand on her shoulder. She pulls away and Willow seems unsure, "Sweetie?"

"I need to-" she is battling tears. "I can't-I don't want to do this."

"Okay," she says softly and she presses a kiss to her temple. Kennedy walks out of the room.

In Aly and Annie's room Annie is sitting beside her sister on her bed. Aly wipes tears as she talks, "Can't blame her-I mean-"

"She needs to think it doesn't mean it's over," Annie tries to assure her.

"It's over-you didn't see her face-" tears fall. "I blew it-"

Willow finds Kennedy still pounding the heavy bag an hour later. She walks to her and puts a hand on her shoulder. The Slayer is nearly exhausted, her body dripping with sweat. "You gotta stop baby-" Kennedy turns and moves into the witch's arms as her tears fall. Willow kisses her head and tries to calm her. "Want to tell me about the one that broke your heart?" Kennedy just shakes her head. The redhead sits on the mat and brings her Slayer with her she holds her tightly.

"She was older like Sarah-I was fifteen." Kennedy says softly. "I loved her-things happened."

"Things?"-Kennedy nods confirming Willow's implications. "Fifteen?"

"Yeah-she never talked to me again."

That night Aly and Willow are sitting on the balcony the teenager has her head in her mom's lap. "What if she doesn't want to see me any more?"

"I think she will-just don't push her. She'll figure it out."

"I hope so- I really like her."

"I know-" they sit quietly and look up at the stars. Willow strokes her daughter's back trying to calm her.

The birthday party is in full swing. The backyard is decorated with streamers and balloons. The little kids, the Langdon's, the Harris's and the Wood's are swinging and climbing on the jungle gym or simply playing chase while their mothers look on. Off to the side the older kids, friends of Annie and Aly's are playing games with water balloons-Kennedy laughs as one hits Travis in the head and gets him wet. Aly is trying to have fun but she keeps watching the gate for Sarah.

Things finally calm down some when the time to open presents and eat cake nears. The birthday girls are sitting in the center of the kids opening packages as the little ones hand them to them. Aly who loves presents tries to seem excited but her parents see the act. "I really thought she'd show-" says Willow softly as she takes Kennedy's hand. The Slayer simply nods. As the last gift is opened Kennedy takes pictures.

"Time to make a wish and blow out your candles," says their mama. She takes a picture of Annie who smiles and then sticks out her tongue and then one of Aly as the flames go out.

"Now can we eat cake?" asks Alex.

"Now we eat cake," says Annie.

As the cakes are cut and pieces are past around Aly gets up and walks to the gate. She fights tears trying hard to stay composed. "So much for wishes coming true," she says softly.

"What did you wish for?" asks Sarah softly as she looks at the teenager.

"Sarah-"

"Sorry I'm late- I was busy."

"Busy?"

"Arguing with myself about yesterday. It was a lot."

"I know-"

"I mean it's not everyday your girlfriend tells you she can talk inside your head." Sarah continues to talk but Aly is still at the word girlfriend.

"Girlfriend?" Aly fights the smile that is trying to cover her face.

"Yeah-" she holds out a rose.

"Girlfriend-" Aly repeats.

"Okay?" suddenly unsure.

"Definitely-" she smiles taking the flower. Sarah takes Aly's hand in hers, their fingers lace together.

"So I can hear you-can you hear me?"

"I don't know, I've never tried."

"Try-" their eyes meet.

"You sure?" The girl nods. "Okay but you've got to concentrate, focus on your words."

"Focus-right, focusing now." Sarah closes her eyes. 'Aly what do you want for your birthday?'

Aly smiles, 'I got what I wanted.' She whispers back in the blonde's mind.

"That's so cool-" smiles Sarah. "Let's get cake before Alex eats it all. They walk toward the party.

Later Sarah watches Aly as she teases with the little kids-Willow walks up beside her. "I'm glad you made it."

"Me too-"

"So yesterday?"

"I'm dealing-I mean after the initial flipping out it's kinda cool." Sarah smiles. "Did she tell you she could hear me too?"

"No-but it's rare."

"Special-" says Sarah softly and Willow nods her understanding.

As the party breaks up Aly and Sarah are walking in the garden. Aly has the rose and a framed picture in one hand and Sarah's hand in the other. "I love the picture."

"I'm glad-but ah-there's something else I want to give you." She stops walking and turns to face the teenager. "If-I mean if it's okay." Sarah's free hand travels to her girlfriend's face.

Aly is obviously nervous, "Okay-"

"Yeah?" She asks again wanting to be sure. Aly nods against her hand. Sarah leans down her lips just inches from Aly's but she stops. "Cause if it's not-" Aly closes the distance and their lips meet in a gentle kiss. Aly gets lost in the feel of the soft lips on hers and her eyes close as her heart races. Sarah pulls back slowly and as Aly's eyes open and meet hers she whispers softly, "Happy Birthday." Aly can't find words as she smiles.

On the balcony above the teenagers Willow and Kennedy witness their daughter's first kiss. Willow's hand finds Kennedy's and squeezes it tightly as tears threaten to fall.

Rolling Along

"We're out of snacks," says Alex looking up from the beanbag on the floor.

"No way-" she smiles. "I'll bring some back, popcorn and chips okay?" The kids cheer and she smiles as she leaves.

In the kitchen Aly and Sarah are getting juice from the refrigerator. As they start back to the living room Aly stops Sarah with a hand on her arm. Their eyes meet and she leans in to kiss her softly. Sarah pulls back smiling, "We better get back."

"I'd rather stay here-" she leans in for another kiss. As their lips meet they hear someone on the stairs and break the kiss. Nervously they look toward the stairs and see Kennedy jogging down them. "Hey-" says the girl, "Needed something to drink," adds Aly.

"That's cool, there's plenty. Would you mind popping more popcorn for the kids and running it up to them-oh and chips too?"

"No problem."

"Thanks," Kennedy walks toward the living room but stops and smiles back at them. "Don't be too long-or you'll miss the start of the movie."

"Not too long-" agrees Sarah. Kennedy leaves and the teenagers breath a sigh of relief.

"That was close," says Aly as she puts a bag of popcorn in the microwave.

"Yep we'd better just-" before she can finish the sentence Aly kisses her again. The teenager's hands go to Sarah's waist and rest there. Sarah puts a hand on Aly's stomach and pulls back from the kiss. She looks into the younger girl's eyes. "Aly-"

The girl looks unsure, "You don't wanna?"

"No-I mean yes I do. It's just-" she moves back from her girlfriend and sits on the counter by the microwave. "I don't want things to get-"

"They won't-" says Aly shaking her head as she walks to her.

"They might-" Aly steps closer, the popcorn is popping faster, as she is now standing between Sarah's legs, her hands resting on the girl's thighs. She leans forward to kiss her and as their lips meet Sarah's arms encircle her pulling her closer. Sarah's lips begin to move against Aly's opening and closing in a slow rhythm. Hesitantly the younger girl follows suit, her lips move with Sarah's. The dinging of the microwave startles them and they break apart.

Aly is a little rattled, her heart is still racing- "Sarah-"

"You better take that upstairs," the blonde manages to say her breathing fast.

"That was-wow-" she says her mind racing with so many thoughts she can't form words to express them.

"Go," says Sarah as moves from the counter. "I'll meet you in the living room."

"But-" again she tries but fails to find words. Aly simply nods and watches the girl leave the room. She takes a deep breath before she takes the popcorn out, grabs chips from the cabinet and goes up the stairs two at a time.

During the movie Aly glances at the girl sitting next to her on the floor against the couch. They are holding hands-Aly's head rests on Sarah's shoulder. Her Slayer hearing allows her to pick up the girl's fast heartbeat and she smiles. Willow and Kennedy are sitting behind them on the couch the redhead is snuggled against her Slayer encircled in her arms. She looks down at the teenagers and notices their hands intertwined. She smiles just a little.

As the movie ends everyone stretches and stands. Robin is the first to speak. He kisses Faith softly, "I'll get the kids." She nods and kisses him back before he starts up the steps.

"It was fun Red-Junior," smiles Faith.

"Always is," adds Buffy as she stands. "Better round up ours too." She smiles down at Xander.

"I'll go-" he stands and kisses her before leaving the room.

Sarah watches the displays of affection between the adults in the room. She smiles understanding a little better Aly's desire for more kissage. She looks down at the girl and runs her fingers through her hair. "Walk me out?" She asks softly.

"Stay just a little longer?"

"It's late-Dad will worry." She stands and reaches her hand down for Aly's. The teenager takes it and stands beside her. They walk toward the door fingers laced together.

Faith watches them and looks back at Willow and Kennedy. "Handholding and you're not freaked," asks the dark Slayer. "Nikki will never-"

Kennedy smiles, "Said that too Faith but it'll happen."

"Besides Sarah's a good kid-" adds Willow.

"Still eventually they'll-" her words die off as she notices Buffy's glare. "What?"

"We should help clean up," says the blonde Slayer. She picks up cans and bowls and watches as Faith does the same. They leave the room. Willow and Kennedy are suddenly uneasy.

"You don't think they're-" asks the redhead as the blush covers her face.

"No-no-okay Faith's just-they're not." Kennedy looks toward the window. She and Willow both run toward it.

In the kitchen Buffy is still glaring at Faith- "What? You know I'm right it's just a matter of time. They're getting serious."

"You know this how?"

"Gut feeling-" says Faith. "Watch them together-you'll see it too." She goes up the back stairs. Buffy stares back toward the living room.

Outside Sarah is standing against the car Aly is standing in front of her, "Call me when you get home?"

"Yeah-" Sarah leans in and kisses her. Her lips are soft and gentle against Aly's. She keeps it chaste as she pulls away. She touches Aly's face with her hand. "Good night."

"Night-" she leans in and their lips meet again. The younger girl moves her lips slowly against the others and Sarah finally gives in to the feelings it causes. She opens and closes her lips in a matching rhythm. Her hands go to Aly's waist and hold her to her. Finally she pulls her lips away. "Goddess-" pants Aly as she leans her forehead against the blonde's.

"Going now." She steps back and opens the car door. Aly presses a quick kiss to her lips and closes it behind her.

Inside the house Kennedy smiles a little proud but then worry buries it. Willow turns to her. "Some goodnight kiss-wouldn't you say?" asks the Slayer. The redhead nods. "Think it's time for another talk."

"So Slaying?"

"No-I take her Slaying tonight no amount of cold showers are gonna fix it-and the other options, not ready to go there yet. Unless you-"

Willow is instantly red and Kennedy chuckles. "So not funny," says the witch as she slaps her arm. As they continue to fuss playfully the others walk into the room. They say goodnight and as hugs are exchanged Aly walks back inside. She is standing by her parents as the last guests leave.

"Have fun?" asks Kennedy.

"Movie night is always fun," says the teenager.

"And Sarah wasn't too bored?" asks her mom.

"No-I'm gonna get a shower and get ready for bed."

"Let's talk first," says her mama.

"Talk?" asks the girl unsure, "About?" Willow turns red. Aly realizes what the topic must be she becomes a little nervous. She sits on the coffee table and looks up at her parents. "I thought we-when we slayed that nest of vampires?"

"We did but there are things we didn't talk about-"

"Like what?"

Kennedy sits on the couch across from her and Willow does the same, "We know that you like Sarah," says the redhead. "An-and that's good."

"But she's older," Kennedy starts, "Which means she's probably more experienced than you are."

"She's never-" she looks at her parents nervously, "You think we-?" She shakes her head- "We've never-" her face matches the color of her hair.

"No-we know you haven't," says her mom.

Kennedy isn't talking she seems surprised by Aly's words, "She hasn't?"

"No-"

"You know this how?"

"We-we talk about stuff-" says the teen.

"That's good-" says Willow, now surprised herself. She is having a hard time comprehending the information she has received.

"Can I take a shower now?"

"Sure," says Kennedy. Aly stands and walks out of the room. Kennedy's eyes meet her redhead's. "So-are we glad she had sense enough to ask good questions, or are we worried about why she asked them?"

"I-I'm gonna be glad she asked for now-I think she was curious about her girlfriend's history," says the witch. "Maybe afraid she wasn't-"

"Measuring up?" asks Kennedy.

"So to speak," nods Willow.

Upstairs Aly picks up the ringing phone, "Hello-"

"I'm home-"

Aly smiles, "Safe and sound? All tucked into bed?" She lies on her own bed.

"Too early for bed-" says Sarah.

"True, that's why you should have stayed."

"Maybe but I thought we could use a little space, things were intense," says the blonde.

"But nice-" Aly can't help but smile. "You were amazing-" she bites her bottom lip.

"Not so bad yourself," Sarah replies.

"That's cause I have a good teacher."

"You know I don't want you to think-I'm happy where we are, it's enough."

"Yeah I get that-not feeling any pressure."

"Good cause I'm not-no pressure."

"You know my parents were worried about that-they thought since you were older-"

"You're kidding me right?"

"Nope-just had a conversation after you left."

You told them that we haven't-"

"I told them-relax. They trust us-they were just freaked about something."

"Think they saw the good bye kiss?"

"Maybe-yeah-that makes sense."

A week later Annie and Aly are sitting in their room studying. Both are at their desks Aly is using the computer to research her term paper while Annie is studying for a History test. There is a knock at the door and they look up to see Willow there. "How's the homework coming?" asks the redhead as she walks in the room.

"I've almost got the research finished," says Aly.

"And I think I'm ready for a quiz- got time mom?"

"Sure sweetie-wanna stay here or go to the living room?"

"The balcony?" asks the teenager.

"Good idea," smiles her mom.

A little later Willow and Annie are still working on the test information. The redhead is sitting on the lounge chair and Annie is sitting on the end of the same chair. "I think you're ready-just look back over it before class."

Annie nods, "Thanks mom."

"Anytime-" Willow looks up into the darkening sky. "It's gonna be a beautiful night. Wanna stay out here and wake the sunset?" Annie nods and moves up the chair to lean into her mother's arms. Willow kisses the top of her head.

After a few minutes of quiet Annie speaks, "Mom can I ask you something?"

"Of course-something wrong Annie?"

"Wrong? No-just can Travis come to movie night next week?"

Willow smiles, "Yeah-he can come."

"Really?"

"Really-"

Another week passes and an Aly and Sarah are in the kitchen at the counter working on Trig-Aly has finished her assignment and is checking over the problems that Sarah has completed. "You got it," smiles the young Slayer.

"Because of you-" Sarah smiles looking up at her. She leans in and kisses her softly. "Because of you, I'm gonna ace this test."

"Are you now?" Asks Aly.

"Definitely-and when I do we're -" her words stop.

"What?" asks Aly as their eyes meet.

"Nothing," says Sarah as she takes her hand.

"No, you were gonna say something-what?"

"I was gonna say I'd take you out to celebrate," Aly looks down. "But we don't have to go out, we can celebrate here." She places her hand on Aly's chin and raises it, then presses a kiss to the teenager's lips. "It's okay-" she says as she breaks the kiss.

"I'm sorry-"

"Shhhh- it's not a big deal."

"But you've worked so hard you deserve to-" Sarah stops her babble with a soft kiss that she quickly escalates. As lips open and close together in a steady motion Sarah's hand caresses Aly's cheek.

A few seconds later Sarah pulls back from the kiss, after a second to get her breathing under control she asks, "You were saying?"

"Ah-" the younger teenager licks her lips her breathing rushed and her heart pounding, "Saying? I-ah I don't remember." She leans in and they kiss again.

Kennedy walks into the room and clears her throat to get their attention. The pull apart a little worried. "Homework finished?"

"Almost," says the young Slayer.

"We'll just-" she picks up her pencil and looks at the book then Kennedy. "Ah-back to work."

"Good," says the Slayer as she gets an apple and leaves the room.

"Okay-two more problems."

"You can actually concentrate on math now-after?"

Sarah smiles, "No-but-" Aly leans in to kiss her again.

In the living room Kennedy looks at Willow, "We give then five minutes and you go in."

The redhead nods, "Explain why we're doing this again?"

"Too much kissing going on-" says Kennedy.

"You're kidding right-those words from the woman who would rather kiss than eat?"

"She's too young Will-things are getting too serious too fast."

"What are you saying?"

"I'm not sure-" says the Slayer as her eyes go toward the kitchen.

The trig teacher passes back test papers a few days later. Aly looks over hers, she has a 98. She holds it so that Sarah can see the grade. The teenager smiles as she talks the Aly, her soft words filling her head, 'Way to go.'

The teacher is still handing out papers when the bell rings, "Those that have their papers are dismissed." The room begins to empty out.

Aly stands, "I'll wait for you outside the door." Sarah nods as Aly leaves. Her paper is the last one handed back as she looks at it her eyes begin to tear. She stands and goes out of the room.

In the hallway she walks toward Aly, "How'd you do," asks the nervous teen. Sarah turns the paper so that she can see it. She sees the 96 and smiles. Without thinking she hugs the blonde and presses her lips against hers in a quick kiss.

"Office now!" Bellows a voice from across the hall. Sarah pulls away from Aly-

"Mr. Roberts, I can explain-"

"Now," he repeats.

They look at each other unsure, the excitement of only seconds ago ruined by the worry of what will happen now.

Hitting the Fan

Kennedy turns to her daughter the anger is obvious, "Go to your room-we'll be up to talk-" she fights to keep her voice calm.

"Mama please let me-"

"Room now!" Her composure is lost as she struggles against tears.

"This isn't fair-"

Kennedy's anger surfaces as she raises her voice, "I won't say it again."

"Go-" says Willow softly as she touches the teenager's arm. "We'll listen-just not right now." The girl runs up the stairs. Willow turns to her Slayer, "Little rough on her don't you think?"

"No-" Kennedy's eyes meet her redhead's. "Where you in the same meeting I was?"

"Yes-and I'm not happy with her either." She touches Kennedy's hand hoping the contact will soothe the angry Slayer. "But before we do anything-punish her any more, I want to know what happened."

"She was making out with her girlfriend in the hallway. He said-"

"I want to hear her side-"

"I'm sure she has an excuse but it doesn't change the fact that she isn't using good judgment where Sarah is concerned."

"Kennedy-you really believe that?"

"I really do-they're too close and if we don't do something now, it's not gonna get any better."

Willow is trying to process the things she has heard. Was Kennedy saying she didn't want them seeing each other? No-that couldn't be right. "What are you saying?"

"I don't want her seeing Sarah-"

"Kennedy-"

"I know she'll be upset."

"She'll be devastated. Let's not-let's talk to her and think about this before we do anything."

"Fine-but I have to cool off-I can't talk to her right now," says the Slayer.

Willow steps to her and hugs her tightly as she presses her lips to Kennedy's temple. "Probably a good idea."

"I should go kill something-" says Kennedy as she moves from her redhead's arms. "It'll make me feel better-"

"As long as it's not our daughter then okay, just be careful-sometimes when you're unfocused-"

"I'll be careful." She turns, goes to the door and opens it. She turns back to Willow. "It's official-"

"What is?" asks the redhead unsure of why the woman changed her mind.

"Teenagers-they've driven us crazy-"says the Slayer.

Willow walks to the door, "Why do you say that?"

"It's still daylight-you can't kill vamps if it's not dark."

"True-guess we forgot," says the witch.

"Ever forgot before?"

"No-"

"Exactly," says the Slayer, "Crazy-I'll be in the training room." She closes the door and goes toward the kitchen. Willow forces an uneasy smile as the door opens and the kids file in noisily.

Upstairs Aly is lying on her bed crying. She turns over and picks up the phone. She sits up and dials Sarah's number. As she listens to it ring she tries to stop her tears. "Hello," says Mr. Gray.

"Mr. Gray-ah-may I speak with Sarah please?"

"I'm sorry Aly-she isn't allowed on the phone," he states matter-a-factly.

"Ah-right I just I just need her to know that I'm sorry," says the young Slayer as she tries to keep the tears from falling. "Could you tell her?"

"I will, but I'd rather you not call back."

"Cause she's grounded-I get it." The line goes dead. Aly puts it back on the stand. Unable to stay in control any longer the tears flow.

The door opens and Annie walks in. "Hey-" She sits on the bed by her sister. "So it is true-?"

"What?"

"Roberts' caught you making out-"

"No- I just-I kissed her and he saw. One kiss-"

"That's what you got suspended for?" She nods as tears continue. "You okay?-Stupid question sorry." Aly's eyes meet hers and she hugs her sister tightly. "Tell me how to help?"

In the training room Kennedy is beating the heavy bag. With each punch her mind begins to remember-with each flash tears stream down the Slayer's face. "This isn't happening," she whispers as the memories over take her and she is returned to her youth.

A teenaged Kennedy is sitting in the principal's office at the private school she attends. Her father is sitting next to her. His clinched jaw gives us the sense or controlled anger just beneath the surface. "I'm afraid Mr. Langdon that this incident can't be overlooked. We have strict policies on public displays of affection," says the man.

"I understand-" says Mr. Langdon his voice level and calm. "Kennedy let's go-"

"But Daddy let me explain-" says the young girl. "That's not how it-"

"Kennedy the car now," his anger finally surfaces.

The Slayer shakes the thoughts away and leans, exhausted against the bag- "How did I let this happen?"

In Aly and Annie's room the sisters are still talking. "They'll listen-"says Annie.

"Mama was so mad-I've never seen her-" says Aly.

"She'll beat the heavy bag and then you'll talk. It'll work out."

"How can you be so sure?"

"I can't explain it-Faith would say something like 'I feel it in my gut-' me I just know." Before Aly can say anything else the phone rings and Annie picks it up, "Hello-" she looks at Aly, "Sarah are you okay?"

"Sarah?" Annie hands her the phone and moves toward the door. "Slow down-what happened."

Sarah's scared voice replies, "He said I can't see you-"

"Cause your grounded-"

"No that's not what he meant," the cell phone starts to fade.

"Where are you-"

Again the scene shifts and images of a teenaged Kennedy return. She sits in her room listening to her father yell- "You are not to see her again. Do you understand me?"

"Please-Daddy-" tears fall in streaks down her face.

"This discussion is over." He stands and leaves the room.

In the training room Kennedy runs her fingers through her hair and fights to stop the tears. Sensing someone she looks up and sees Willow. She can tell from her face something is wrong- "Willow?"

"She's gone-I went up to check on her and she's gone." Her tears fall. Kennedy puts her arms around her redhead and holds her. "It's almost dark, where would she go?"

"Sarah called she was upset-" says Annie from the door. "She probably was going to meet her."

"Makes sense-I'll check the park," says the Slayer heading toward the door.

"I'll try a locater spell-" says Willow.

"I'll get the ingredients together," says the teenager as she follows her mama out the door.

Go on to Part 3(Chapters 11-15)

Or go back to Part 1(Chapters 1-5)

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