The Not So Simple LIFE

Rating: PG
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: Canon through Chosen. From there, the story is a little 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.
Pairings: Willow/Kennedy, Faith/Robin Woods

Summary: What do we do now Buffy? The question gets answered!

Chapter 1

"Ready to head back? The others are packed up."

"Do we have to?" She asks with a whine as she lies back down.

"No-" she moves to lay over the woman, her elbows holding her weight. "We can stay-we'll get a taxi back to the hotel."

"You wouldn't mind?" Again their eyes meet.

"Let me think-a long crowded bus ride with Andrew and the gang or a romantic drive alone with you?" She smiles, "That's a tough one."

Kennedy begins to tickle her, "I'll teach you-no more sarcasm," they soon start to wrestle playfully and the redhead ends up trapped under the bikini clad young Slayer.

Their lips meet again, this time they open and close together and just before they pull apart Willow moans. "Think staying is a brilliant idea-"

"Voting for it-" they kiss again.

"Unanimous, no recount needed," words stop as their lips join and then begin to open and close together. Kennedy lets the weight of her body press against her lover as she settles between her legs getting lost in the sensation of lips on lips. They both moan softly.

Their lips part and tongues explore until someone clearing their throat brings them back to reality. Kennedy turns to see Faith. The once dark Slayer just smirks, "Public beach you know-Junior." Kennedy rolls her eyes and Willow tries not to blush.

"Go away," the young Slayer finally says.

"Fine-but don't call me if you get arrested," she starts to walk away.

"Arrested?" Squeaks Willow as she moves from under the new young Slayer.

"Sex on the beach is against the law Red," she continues to tease.

"S-s-e-x, no we we-weren't-" she stammers.

Kennedy shoots Faith a glare, the I'm gonna kick your ass kind.

Faith laughs- "Later." She leaves.

Kennedy turns to the redhead and sees the worry in her eyes. "Hey-she's just screwing around." She presses a soft kiss to the redhead's lips. "Don't let her ruin our plans."

Willow nods slowly, "You're right-" she leans in and kisses Kennedy. They end up back on the sand in each other's arms. "Where were we?" She asks.

Kennedy smiles and flips the witch back under her. "Here-I think-" she settles her weight onto her lover.

"I remember now-" smiles the redhead. They kiss again, tongues caressing. Willow moans as her lover's tongue ring sends sparks of need straight through her.

Kennedy smiles around the kiss, she pulls back- "Maybe Faith's right-we should find someplace more private?"

Willow sits up slightly and looks around, her face flushed, her breathing labored. "Over there-" she states, "The rocks."

"Kinda wet-" says Kennedy.

"Me too-" Willow smirks, her sexy talk catching the younger woman off guard.

Kennedy blushes, "Will-" she finally smiles.

"What?" innocently.

"You have got to spend way less time with Faith."

"Kinda hard when we're trapped together on a bus." Willow kisses the girl. "Don't want to talk now-" she stands and holds out her hand. The young Slayer takes it and stands. They stop to pick up the blankets and start across to the rocks.

Once behind the cover of the rocks Kennedy kisses the redhead soundly. Lips move against lips as hands explore and caress. She begins to work on the cover-up Willow is wearing. It soon falls to the ground. Her soft freckled skin is revealed and then assaulted by gentle lips as the young Slayer traces a path from her neck to her shoulder and back up to her lips.

Willow begins her own expedition. She racks her fingernails along Kennedy's spine and the girl shivers, then moans. "Like that baby?" She whispers in her ear as she nips there gently.

"Love that-" she pants- "Love you." Willow pulls back and Kennedy sees the panic in her eyes. She tries to calm her breathing. "Sor-sorry-I didn't-" Willow backs away. "I didn't mean-" her words stop as she searches the redhead's eyes and sees her relax. She leans in and they kiss again almost chastely. As Willow tries to deepen the kiss Kennedy backs up. The witch looks at her unsure, "You know what?" They are quiet, "I did mean-" her eyes meet Willow's. "I love you Willow."

The redhead struggles to keep tears away as she takes a step back and leans against the rocks, her arms wrapped around herself. "Kennedy-" tears start to fall. She looks up at the sky and then at the ground.

"You don't love me-I get it." She starts to walk away.

Willow takes her hand and holds her in place, "You don't get it, you never have. I'm not-I need-"

"Time. How much more time Will?"

"I don't know-"

"A month-six months-a year?"

"I don't know-" she repeats as tears fall. "Can't we just-" she tries to kiss Kennedy, but she backs away.

"No-we can't- not anymore-it hurts too much." Kennedy walks away as Willow stands unsure of what just happened. Were they through?

Kennedy stops and leans against the rocks out of Willow's view. Tears stream down her cheeks. She can't help but let a small laugh escape-she speaks barely a whisper- "So this is what it felt like-" she thinks of all the girls before Willow. She takes a deep breath and lets it out slowly. "I guess they knew what they were talking about when they said payback was a bitch." She looks back toward the woman she loves and wonders what will happen next.

Chapter 2

As the car stops Kennedy gets out, as does the redhead. She pays the driver and they walk toward the lobby in silence. Kennedy stops and Willow does as well. She looks at the young Slayer, "Kennedy-" she starts.

"Not now Will-I can't listen to-I know you love her-I can't hear that now." She turns and walks back toward the street.

"Kennedy-" Willow calls to her but she continues to walk away. Frustrated she runs her fingers through her hair and shakes her head trying to keep tears from falling. Losing the battle, the tears again slip down her cheeks. "Kennedy-" she whispers. She turns to go inside but runs into Buffy instead.

"Willow-" the blonde sees the tears and is instantly in Slayer mode. "What's wrong? Where's Kennedy?"

"Gone-" whispers the redhead. "She's really gone." She hugs her friend as the tears fall harder. "It's my fault-" she tries to compose herself. "Why can't I-" she starts again. "I miss Tara, Buffy-but I-" she is unable to finish as she buries her head against the Slayer's shoulder.

Buffy holds her friend tightly as the redhead sobs-the Slayer's mind tries to organize and process the scattered information she was given. She slowly pieces it together. "She said she loved you and you couldn't say it back?" She feels the nod against her and brushes her hand through the redhead's hair. "She understands-she's just-" she can't offer anymore words of comfort because she knows how upset the young woman must be.

Kennedy is in the park a few miles away-her breathing rugged from the run. She looks around, the sun is starting to set and she smiles as she feels the now familiar tingle of the vampires waiting nearby. "Yeah-killing something-that'll make it better!"

In Buffy's room she and Willow are sitting cross-legged on the bed facing each other. The witch still cries. Buffy speaks, "I wish there was something I could do-"

"You can't-I'm not even sure I can." There is silence again until Willow adds. "What if she doesn't come back."

"She will-" she looks at the clock on the nightstand. "You want her to come back?" Willow nods. "That's good-"

Kennedy is now in the cemetery fighting against a group of four vampires when suddenly it becomes ten. She stakes one and as she watches the ash float away she gets hit in the head from behind. She falls to the ground but quickly jumps to her feet, facing the attacker. This vamp is bigger than the others-the others surround her but keep their distance. "You and me then-let's go," she challenges.

The vampire smirks, "Brave little girl-"

"Who are you calling a little girl?" She is now angry- "I'm not a little girl, I'm a Slayer-" she kicks him in the face as he tries to process her words.

He laughs, "Slayer-" he reaches forward and grabs her by the throat. "Always wanted to kill a Slayer."

Kennedy kicks her feet as he raises her off the ground causing scenes of the uber-vamp in the cave to flash through her mind. "Don't always get what you want-" she punches him in the face, then kicks him in the chest. He drops her to the ground. As she gathers herself she sees a vamp turn to dust and then one fly through the air. She smiles at Faith.

"Need a hand Junior?"

"The big one's mine-" states Kennedy as she drops another kick to his chest.

"That's cool-" Faith mumbles as she fights the closet vamp.

As Kennedy knocks him to the ground she gets a fist to the eye and she feels the blood falling. "Damn-stitches- I hate stitches." She pulls out a stake and he knocks it away. He rolls them and the brunette is pinned under him. His fangs near her neck.

She hears Faith, "Need a hand?"

"Got it-" states Kennedy struggling to reach her stake and push him away at the same time. She pushes the wood into the vamp and coughs as the dust settles on her. She brushes herself off and gets to her feet.

She moves to help Faith with the last three. "You okay?"

"Fine-" she fights and the vampires dust one by one.

"Want some burgers?"

"You buying?"

"Me?" Faith smiles, "I saved your ass-figured you'd pay."

"One, my ass didn't need saved-two, thanks."

"Should get that fixed up first-wanna stop by the hospital or just let Red patch you up?"

"Neither," She walks away and Faith follows unsure.

Hours later-after midnight, the battered young Slayer walks down the hallway of the hotel and into the room she shares with Willow. The redhead is lying in bed but her eyes open as the door does. "Kennedy-" she turns on the lights and sees the blood. Worry fills her voice. "What happen?"

"Dusting vamps-it got a little rough but I'm okay-" she states. She moves to the dresser and gets a tank and boxers. Willow is now at her side-the witch touches the young Slayer's swollen eye and the girl winces. "It'll be gone by morning." She pulls away.

"Let me get you some ice," again her hand touches the brunette's face. "It needs stitches-"

"Look Will-I'm a big girl." She pauses and chooses her words carefully. "I can take care of myself-I need a shower and I need some sleep. That's all."

"Want a sandwich? I could get you one while you shower."

"Thanks but no-already ate. Faith and I stopped for burgers," she turns and goes toward the bathroom.

Willow watches her leave for the second time today. She decides that running isn't the answer and walks into the bathroom as Kennedy removes the last of her clothes. "Please-let's talk," the redhead's words are soft.

"I've said all I can say-" Kennedy's eyes meet Willow's. "It's your turn-" the redhead looks at the floor. "Right-look Willow-just before I say something that I can't take back just-" her words are stopped by lips on hers. Fighting the second of the raging H's she pulls back from the girl. "We're not doing this-"

"Please-" tears fall.

"No-" she pulls on her shorts and shirt.

"Kennedy, don't do this-"

"This is not me, this is you-you chose this." She walks out of the room.

"Don't leave me-" she yells. "Don't leave me-don't leave- don't leave," each time the words get softer. Finally she falls to the floor in tears.

Kennedy is in the hallway again, this time outside Faith's door. She knocks and the older Slayer opens it. "Stay on your side and keep quiet," she states firmly as she goes back toward the bed. Kennedy walks in, closes the door and follows Faith to the bed. She lies beside her, they are back to back. After a few minutes Faith speaks, "You okay?"

"Thought you said to be quiet?"

"Changed my mind."

"I'm great-" sarcasm evident.

"Figured-" they are quiet again. "What did you do to piss her off?" Faith turns to face her.

"Told her I loved her."

"Serious?"

"Yeah-that's the problem-I'm serious and she's not."

"Get some; get gone-that's the best advice I ever got."

"Used to be me too-till Willow-" she stops afraid to continue as tears start to form.

"I don't get it-you love her, she wants to be with you-so what if she doesn't say the words? I mean-the sex is good right?"

"The sex is great-better than great but it's just sex."

"That's a problem how?"

"I don't want sex-" she growls frustrated. "I do want sex-"

"Glad you got that part figured out-" Faith smirks, "I was worried for a second."

"I just want it to mean something-" says Kennedy. A tear escapes down her face.

"Don't do that-" Faith looks unsure. Kennedy simply turns away. She tries to stop the tears but can't-they fall harder as she feels Faith's hand on her back. "Please. Sh-h-h-h" she tries again. "Want me to kick her ass?" Worry fills her eyes as she wonders how to help her friend. A smile slowly covers her face as she thinks, 'I got your back.'

The next morning everyone is gathering in the lobby getting food as they get ready to load back into the bus. Kennedy walks down the last couple steps as Faith approaches her with two cups of coffee. They meet at by the elevator and as the doors open, Willow gets out. Faith smirks and hands the young Slayer her cup. "Sleep okay?" she asks just loud enough for the redhead to hear.

"Mostly-" says Kennedy. Willow stares at them as she stops a few feet away beside Buffy.

She watches as she sees Faith touch Kennedy's face with her hand. The once dark Slayer speaks, "It's almost healed."

"Yeah-" Faith doesn't move her hand as Willow walks toward them. "Will?" Kennedy steps away from Faith.

"You slept with her?" She asks accusingly.

"I-" starts the younger Slayer.

"None of your business where she sleeps-" Willow is instantly outraged and she slaps the Slayer across the face. Faith smirks as she watches the redhead storm off.

"What are you doing?"

"Helping."

"How exactly?" Kennedy is aggravated. "She thinks we-" she stops and lowers her voice, "She thinks we had sex."

"Yeah-" smiles the Slayer triumphantly. "And she was pissed."

"Really-how could you tell?" Kennedy's words are sarcastic.

"Look I saw the jealousy in her eyes- she cares more than you think. Maybe the words are just too hard right now."

"Maybe-what should I do?"

"That's up to you kid-"

"I'm not a kid-"

"If it was me-I'd talk to her. Long bus ride today-lots of time." Kennedy nods and walks toward the bus and the redhead.

Buffy walks over to Faith, "What you did-" says the oldest Slayer.

"Don't be mad-"

"No-wish I'd thought of it."

"Hope it works," Faith states.

"If it doesn't-I vote we lock them in a room and let them fight it out."

Xander who has joined them smiles, "Can we watch?"

"Maybe sell tickets make some extra cash," adds Dawn with a smile.

They all look toward the bus as Willow gets on followed by the young Slayer.

Willow turns to look at Kennedy, "How could you-"

"Nothing happened Will-" Kennedy's chocolate eyes meet sad green.

"I'm supposed to believe that you slayed and then just slept in her bed without-it's Faith"

"If you knew me, you would believe me." She speaks trying hard to keep the anger out of her voice, "You'd know that I don't just-I use to-a different girl every night, but not since I met you. I love you and when we-I make love to you-it's not just sex-" tears fall down her cheeks. "You just don't get it-" she pushes past the redhead and goes to the back of the bus as the tears stream down her cheeks.

Hours later they are all still on the bus. Kennedy is staring out the back window, her mind loud with thoughts and memories. She thinks about the first time she saw the redhead-their first kiss-their first tentative make out sessions. She can't help but smile. She shakes the thoughts away when she feels a hand on her shoulder. She looks up to see Faith standing in front of her. "Getting some dinner-save you a seat?"

"Nah-not hungry."

"I'll bring you back a burger," says the once dark Slayer as she walks back down the aisle of the now empty bus.

Faith walks inside the burger joint and sits down next to Buffy. "No luck?" asks the blonde.

"This bites B-"

The Slayers both look toward Willow who sits alone at a table. Dawn gets up and looks at her sister, "Let me try."

"Couldn't hurt-" says Buffy and Dawn walks to the redhead.

"It okay if I sit with you? Slayer talk-" she rolls her eyes.

"Sure Dawnie." The teenager sits down across from her. They are quiet. It is finally Willow who speaks. "I didn't mean for this to happen."

"What Will?"

"I love Tara," she states. "Always."

Dawn reaches forward and takes her hand-understanding the unspoken words, "I know, I know you do-I do too. -I miss her." Their eyes meet, "But Willow- she wouldn't want you to be sad-would she?" Willow shakes her head.

From across the room the older Slayers and Xander watch the two talk. "Think pint size can talk sense into her?" asks Faith. No one answers.

Later the others have finished eating but Willow and Dawn still talk. "She'd want you to be happy."

"You think?"

"I know-and so do you. I remember when you told me about the first time you told her you loved her-"

"With the candle-" she smiles.

They are silent for a little while and Dawn dares to say the words, "It's okay to love Kennedy-she'd be glad for you." Tears begin to fall down the witch's cheeks. Dawn pulls the redhead into a hug. "Tell her how you feel Will-before it's too late."

"I can't make the words come out-"

"Try?" Willow nods and stands, Dawn hands her a plate with a burger. "Food never hurts when you're dealing with a Slayer." They both smile.

Outside the redhead walks toward the bus. As she boards she doesn't see the young Slayer. Maybe she fell asleep,' thinks Willow. When she reaches the back she sees it is empty. She sits down slowly, leaning her head against the window-that's when she notices the blood.

Chapter 3

"No Will-it's not," tries Xander.

"If I hadn't-she would have been here with us-safe."

"She's a Slayer, Willow, she'll be okay-" assures Dawn.

"Slayer-right-she'll be okay-she'll be okay-" repeats the redhead trying to convince herself. She stops abruptly, "What if she's not?" Her eyes meet Dawn's and then Xander's.

Faith and Buffy are inside the bus. The blonde Slayer looks at the once dark Slayer and speaks, "There's not much blood."

"No-" says Faith. "Probably just from the cut-she was leaning against the window."

"So are you thinking what I'm thinking?" Asks the oldest Slayer.

"That she split?" Buffy nods at Faith's words. "What do we tell Red?"

"Why don't we scout around outside, maybe we can pick up a trail?" Suggests the blonde.

"Worth a try-" they exit the bus and go in opposite directions around it. They meet at the back and look at the shops around them. "Where to?" Asks Faith.

"Not a clue-you know her better than I do."

Faith looks around again. She spots a game room. "Maybe-" they start that direction. Once inside the Slayers walk around from game to game. "There," says Faith as she points to her left. Buffy smiles at the young Slayer who is shooting at the monsters on the screen. "Tell Red she's okay-We'll meet you on the bus. Don't want her to know there was an APB out on her."

"Good thinking," Buffy leaves.

Faith walks to the young Slayer and puts a hand on her shoulder, Kennedy turns ready to fight. "Whoa-Junior," smiles the older Slayer as her hands go up to protect her face. "Saving the world again?"

Kennedy continues to play, as she looks back at the machine. "Just trying to keep busy-keep my mind off-" she stops.

"A hot redhead?" Smiles Faith.

"She is hot-" agrees the younger Slayer, "But I'm beginning to think it's not worth-"

The once rogue Slayer interrupts, "Don't finish that sentence. We both know she is."

"You're so sure maybe you should date her."

"Little busy with the principal-but-" she lets the sentence fall.

The younger Slayer turns and looks at her unsure, "You would date her?"

"Among other things," she smirks and wiggles her eyebrows.

Kennedy looks a little ticked, "Hey that's my girlfriend you know-"

"I do-wondered if you had forgot-" she puts an arm around the neck of the younger Slayer. "Let's get out of here." She playfully pulls her toward the door.

They walk onto the bus to find the others already onboard. Kennedy looks and sees Willow sitting in the back seat. She walks past the others and stands in front of the redhead. "Is it okay if-" she stops as Willow looks up and simply nods. She sits down beside her lover. The bus starts to pull away.

An hour later Willow and Kennedy are still sitting without talking. They stare out separate windows neither sure of how to start.

Faith who is near the front moves to talk to Xander who is driving. "You gotta do something-maybe swerve so they get a little closer."

"I'll try-but wrecking is not on the list of ways to get them to talk."

"I know-" she gives him a look and goes back to sit with Robin.

A few minutes later on a straight stretch of interstate the bus changes directions quickly causing Willow to fall and Kennedy to catch her. As Xander rights the bus the young Slayer's arms stay wrapped around the witch. "You okay?" Asks the brunette.

"Yeah-you?" Kennedy nods. "I was worried before, I came out to the bus and you were gone and there was blood-" her words stop.

Kennedy touches the cut from the night before, "I didn't mean to worry you." Again they are silent. Finally the young Slayer turns the witch to face her. "We need to talk."

"I know-I'm sorry all of this is my fault," her sad green eyes meet the chocolate of the younger woman.

Kennedy puts her fingers on Willow's lips to quiet her, "Not all of it-sometimes I push too hard."

"Sometimes," agrees the redhead. "But sometimes I need pushed-cause I get scared."

Kennedy touches the witch's face with her fingers, "Me too-I've never felt this way before."

"Never?" Kennedy shakes her head slowly. "Wow." She smiles nervously. "Never?" Repeats the redhead.

"Hard to believe?" The young Slayer seems unsure.

"A little, cause I know you've been with-women-lots of-"

"They didn't mean-" she stops then starts again after thinking of the right words. "It's different with you or maybe I'm different-because of you." She leans in and kisses Willow chastely. "And it feels right."

"Yeah?"

"Yeah-but it's okay if you're not ready-if you don't feel the same-I can wait."

"You don't have to-"

"I know-but I will," assures the young Slayer.

"I came to the bus to tell you-well that," she touches Kennedy's cheek and then kisses her softly. "I feel the same." She searches Kennedy's eyes looking for understanding. "About you-what you said-it's just the words are hard."

"The words?"

"You know the ones you said that made me all crazy," Willow bites her bottom lip.

"Are you saying that," she can't help the smile that starts to form on her face. "That you love me too?"

"I'm saying-" she smiles too. "Just not with the words right now cause they just won't-"

"But you feel?"

"I feel-" confirms the redhead and Kennedy leans in capturing her lips with hers. The kiss starts slow but escalates as lips begin to open and close against lips. Willow moans slightly as Kennedy's tongue finds its way into her mouth exploring hers.

They pull apart both turning red as the bus in filled with clapping and cheering. Faith yells over the noise, "About damn time."

Willow and Kennedy both slip down into the seat out of sight. "That was a little embarrassing," whispers the redhead as the clapping and comments continue.

"But worth it," she kisses the redhead again.

"Get a room," shouts one of the younger Slayers.

And Kennedy responds, "Don't need a room-got a big back seat." Willow swats at her playfully as the group groans.

They lie down in the seat side by side and their lips meet again. "Kennedy, I can't-they might hear and-"her words are soft.

"I was teasing-" they lie in each other's arms. After a few seconds Kennedy speaks, "But we can kiss right?"

"Planning on it," their lips meet. "Like that," smiles the redhead. They kiss and caress out of sight as the bus continues on.

Chapter 4

In the back seat Willow and Kennedy are snuggled together. The young Slayer is spooned around the redhead. "I was thinking," starts the younger woman, "maybe we should slow down-"

Willow turns in her arms to face her unsure, "Slow down?"

"Yeah-I was all rushy before with the room sharing and the fake missions. I mean we never did the dating thing."

"I like the dating thing," confirms the witch.

"We pretty much lived together from the start."

"True-the whole close quarters with all the potentials."

"So-I want to do it right-with the dating and the falling in love and then the other stuff," she leans in and kisses the witch softly. "Okay?"

"Okay-but you know this isn't going to be easy."

"Nothing worth having ever is-"

Willow raises an eyebrow, "This from the spoiled brat who has everything?"

"I heard it some where once-you saying it's not true?"

"No-it's true."

She leans in and kisses her one more time, "Then how would you like to have coffee later?"

"Our first date?" smiles the redhead.

"Actually our second-if you count that night at the Bronze."

"Meet me in the lobby at 9:00?"

"Meet you?" asks Kennedy.

"Sure-we can't share a room if we're gonna really do this."

"Right-no sharing a room." She looks unsure, "Whose idea was this?"

"Yours-" smiles Willow.

"And why did you start listening to me?" Kennedy smiles.

"Cause you're pretty smart."

"Yeah?"

"Yeah-" she kisses her softly and then stands.

"Where are you going?" She takes the woman's hand.

"To tell Buffy we need an extra room." She kisses Kennedy's hand and then lets it go as she walks up the aisle of the bus.

Kennedy watches and smiles, "Beautiful."

Later Buffy and Willow are sitting in the room they are sharing. "Sorry there wasn't an extra room."

"This is good-like the dorm room in college."

"That was fun," agrees the blonde. "So whose idea was this?"

"The dating-Kennedy's."

"And the separate rooms?" Buffy smiles as she raises an eyebrow.

"Mine-" she smiles.

"You're evil-"

"Am not-"

"Are to-torturing the poor girl."

"Am not-the torturing would be sharing a room and not-" Willow blushes. "You know-"

"Not being able to-"

"Exactly-this is for her own good."

"Right," Buffy smiles.

In a room across the hall Kennedy is sitting on a bed staring at the clock that reads 8:17. Dawn walks out of the bathroom and smiles at the young Slayer. "What are you gonna wear?"

"Wear-ah-pretty much this."

"No-you've been in that all day-you need a shower and-" she goes to the closet and pulls out a pair of dress pants and a blouse.

"Okay-a shower-but not that-it's just Willow and coffee-"

"It's a date-right?"

"Yeah-but-"

"Shower, I'll find something just right."

"You scare me you know that?"

"Good-so that means I don't have to give you the hurt Willow; feel my anger speech."

Kennedy smiles, shakes her head and stands walking to the bathroom. Dawn turns back to the closet and goes through the clothes there.

Later Kennedy is sitting in the coffee shop of the hotel. She smiles as she looks up and sees the redhead walking toward her. "Wow-" she says softly as the woman sits next to her. "You look great."

"You too-" smiles the redhead.

Kennedy reaches across the table and takes her hand. "Coffee-"

"Do they have mochas?"

Kennedy looks at the menu above the counter, "They do-"

"Mocha please," smiles Willow. The young Slayer stands and walks to the counter. Willow watches her and also smiles.

A little later the two have finished their mochas and are talking. "You plan on staying in Cleveland?"

The young Slayer shrugs, "Depends-I mean slaying is what I do but-it doesn't have to be in Cleveland. How about you?"

"I think I'm gonna finish college-I need a semester."

"Where?"

"Not sure-" she smiles at the younger woman. "You going to college?"

"Hadn't thought about it-since I didn't really finish high school." Willow looks at her unsure. "End of the world and all-"

"But you could go back-or get your GED-"

"I could-" Willow's eyes meet hers. "I will-promise."

"Good-"

"Want to go for a walk?"

"Sounds nice," smiles the redhead. Kennedy stands and holds out her hand. Willow takes it and stands as well. They leave the coffee shop hand-in-hand.

Dawn looks at the clock on the nightstand that reads 11:47. She is starting to worry about Kennedy. She gets up and slips on her robe before going across the hall and knocking on Buffy's door. The Slayer answers it and looks at her sister unsure. "Shouldn't they be back by now?"

"Dawn go to bed-when Kennedy comes home isn't any of your business."

"But what if some Big Bad got them?"

"A Slayer and the most powerful witch around?- I think they'll be fine. Go to bed."

Dawn pouts but leaves, going back to her room.

Downstairs Willow and Kennedy get into the elevator. As the doors close Kennedy smiles, "So-breakfast?"

"Mmmm-sounds like a plan-8:00?"

"Pick you up outside your room?"

"Okay," says the witch. The door opens and they walk hand-in-hand toward the room. Outside the door Willow leans against it facing the young Slayer. "It was nice."

"Yeah-good night."

"Night-"

Kennedy bites her bottom lip as her eyes meet Willow's, "Can I-I mean is a good night kiss okay?"

"I think a good night kiss on a second date is expected."

Kennedy leans in with her hands on the door on each side of Willow's waist. Their lips meet in a soft kiss. They stay that way unmoving until the redhead begins to open and close her lips against the young Slayer's. After a few seconds Kennedy does the same, matching her rhythm. She pulls away her breathing labored, her face flushed, "Night Will-"

"Night-" she kisses her chastely and watches the woman walk away. She finally turns and goes inside the room quietly trying not to wake the Slayer. To her surprise the light comes on. "Buffy-"

"You know what time it is?" asks the blonde and Willow looks at her unsure.

Kennedy meanwhile is standing in her room with an upset Dawn lecturing her, "I thought a vampire or a demon had-"

"Whoa-first of all Slayer-second-so not my mother." She walks to her bed and lays down on it. She closes her eyes and can't help but smile as she thinks of Willow.

The light goes off, and she hears Dawn's voice barely a whisper, "I was just worried."

"Thanks-good night."

"Did you have fun?"

"Yeah-"

"Did you kiss her?" smiles the teen.

"Oh yeah-"

"Did you fool around?"

"It was our second date-" says Kennedy. "You don't fool around on a second date-" hesitation. "Do you?"

"Not really sure-" says the teenager. "We could ask Buffy-"

"No-no asking anyone-got it?"

"Check-you can just figure it out as you go."

"Night Dawn."

"Night."

As the sun comes up Kennedy is still awake. She turns and looks out the window. She finally gets up and goes into the bathroom. She comes out minutes later dressed. She slips quietly from the room.

Willow is also awake she looks across to the other bed at the sleeping Slayer. "Buffy are you asleep?" there is a pause. "Buffy?"

"Will-?"

"Are you asleep?"

"Not now-" whines the Slayer as she turns to face her friend. "Something wrong?"

"Not exactly," says the redhead.

"Then why am I awake?"

"Can I ask you something?"

"Sure Will-anything."

"How long should we date before we-you know-"

Buffy smiles, "Have sex?"

"Well-ah-yeah-" the witch blushes.

Down the hall Kennedy and Faith are having a conversation of their own. "You're serious?"

"Do I look like I'm kidding?"

"Guess not-" Faith runs her fingers through her hair. "Don't know what to tell you-"

"What do you mean you don't know?"

"Never been on a second date let a lone a third one. B might know."

"No-I can't ask her-it's just weird y'know?"

"Then, my advice-do what feels right."

"Yeah-that's good-okay. Thanks." She leaves the room.

At breakfast both are quiet as they eat. They seem a little nervous. Finally Kennedy speaks, "Something not right?

"No-it's fine."

"You want waffles instead?"

"No-not really hungry."

"Me neither," admits the young Slayer.

Willow smiles, "That's a first."

"I guess."

They are silent again. Willow stares at her hands. Kennedy fiddles with her napkin and soon it is in shreds.

Buffy and Faith walk by and see them. They look at each other and go across the room and sit down. "Okay-what do you know?"

"About?" asks Faith innocently.

"Those two-did Kennedy talk to you?"

"Maybe-if Willow talked to you."

"Maybe-we talked."

"And Kennedy and I might have talked about third dates."

"What do you know about third dates?" Buffy looks at the dark Slayer.

"Exactly-wasn't much help." They are quiet, "How about you? What did you tell Red?"

"That things would happen when they were suppose to happen."

"Couldn't be a little more vague?" They look back to the couple to see Xander sitting with them.

"So-breakfast date?" asks Xander.

"Yep-" smiles Willow.

"I could eat with Buffy and Faith," he says.

"No-stay," says Kennedy.

"You're sure?"

"Positive," smiles the redhead.

"Is this date number two?" he asks.

"Number three," volunteers Kennedy.

"Third dates are nice," he can't help but smile but it fades. "Anya loved the dating."

"I remember-" she puts her hand on his.

"Wanna know what we did on our fourth date?"

"Sure-" says Kennedy a little too fast, Xander and Willow both give her a strange look. "I mean if you wanna tell us."

He smiles, "Our third date was a breakfast date too- and it turned into date number four when we had lunch in the park."

"Was date number five dinner that night?" asks Kennedy.

"No-Scooby meeting that night Big Bads to fight."

"Date number five was..." he smiles and the conversation continues.

Faith and Buffy smile, "He always seems to know when someone needs him," says Buffy.

"Seems that way-so why hasn't he seen through you yet?" Faith smiles.

"Shut up-" the blonde Slayer rolls her eyes.

"For now-cause he's not ready-but I'll remember."

Later in the day the Willow and Kennedy are picnicking in the park. Willow is leaning against a tree while Kennedy rests her back on the redhead's chest as she sits between her legs. "This is nice," says the young Slayer.

"Very, remind me to thank Xander."

"Definitely," she smiles and turns to look at the redhead.

"I was all with the nervous-not sure what to do you know?"

"Really-I couldn't tell," smirks Kennedy. Willow hits her playfully and they end up in a wrestling match that Kennedy quickly wins. She has the witch pinned under her. She bites her bottom lip as she rests on her elbows above the woman. "Is it okay if I kiss you?"

"Always okay-" assures Willow as the young Slayer leans in and kisses her lips. The kiss escalates as lips open and close against lips.

Kennedy finally pulls away her body tingling from the kiss. She is trying to get her breathing under control. "Willow-dinner tonight?"

Willow smiles, "You're just trying to get to date number ten-" she tickles the younger woman and gets her turned to her back.

"Maybe-" smiles Kennedy.

"I think-one date a day-from now on."

"But that means we can't-" she leans up and kisses Willow's neck. "I can't wait six days to make love to you," she whispers in her ear.

Willow closes her eyes and fights to compose herself before she gives in, "Yes-you can-cause we can do other stuff instead." She leans in and kisses the Slayer on the lips and her hands find their way to the brunette's sides. "It'll be fun," says the witch as she pulls out of the kiss. "Okay?"

"Okay," agrees the young Slayer before she realizes it and she pouts, "You tricked me."

Willow gets up and sits on the blanket, "Let's go play on the swing?"

"You're trying to kill me," whines the Slayer as she sits up too. Willow just smiles before she leans in and kisses the younger woman.

Chapter 5

"Eventually," smiles Willow amused by the young Slayer's obvious need for more than snuggles. "Cleveland is still over a thousand miles away-" she giggles. "We'll need gas."

Kennedy turns her to face her and tries to seem angry but it fades to a soft smile, "I'm glad you're amused."

Willow leans in and kisses her softly, and as they pull back their eyes meet. "I know you're getting frustrated-"

"I'm not-" she tries to convince the redhead. "I little," she backpedals. "But not just because I want-" she bites her bottom lip- "I had a nice date planned and they ruined it."

Willow kisses her again chastely and snuggles into her arms, her head on her shoulder, "Tell me all about it."

"I had reservations at this really great restaurant-candles and music."

"Sounds really nice," she kisses her neck and the young Slayer trembles beneath her lips. "Then what?" She whispers.

Taking a breath to compose herself she continues, "Then dancing-holding you close," Willow kisses her neck again and Kennedy's eyes fall shut as she stifles a moan. "Afterwards-I was gonna take you back to the room for mochas-"

"Mochas and-" she smiles against the younger woman's neck.

"Kissing-lots of kissing."

She is surprised by Willow's lips on hers. The kiss is instantly passionate as tongues explore. In need of air the redhead pulls away a few minutes later. "Like the date so far-" she leans in for another kiss this one is slower as she turns into Kennedy's body. Soon she has the young Slayer under her, her lips find the woman's pulse point and she pulls the skin between her lips and sucks softly at first but soon her control is gone. Kennedy moans loudly.

A sleepy voice from the front of the bus calls out, "Give us a break!"

Willow pulls away and leans her forehead on Kennedy's, "Sorry-got carried away."

"Not complaining," says the young Slayer.

Willow sees the mark and blushes, "I didn't mean-" she kisses the bruised skin.

"It'll be gone by morning-Slayer healing," assures the younger woman.

She rolls the redhead under her-well attempts to, but she misjudges the size of the seat and they fall to the floor. Those on the bus break into laughter, a few embarrassing minutes later Buffy gets them all quiet.

"Okay back there?-" asks Faith, the smirk still in her voice.

"Fine-" answers Kennedy, not pleased by the fun they are having at her expense. Her voice softens, "You okay?" Her eyes meet Willow's.

"I'll live," answers the embarrassed redhead as they get back in the seat. They snuggle back into each other's arms.

Both jump startled as Faith looks over the seat in front of them, "You two need someone back here to keep an eye on you?"

Buffy appears too, "Cause the whole dating thing-wouldn't want you to get into any trouble."

Willow rolls her eyes at the Slayers, "We're good-"

Faith smirks, "Someone is-lots of moaning-"

Kennedy gives her an evil eye, "Go away-"

"Okay-but if someone gets pregnant-" Buffy laughs, as does Faith-before starting back to the front of the bus.

"They think they're cute-" Kennedy's words are angry. "Payback's a bitch-" she raises her voice for them to hear.

Willow kisses her softly, "It's okay-" she looks in her eyes. "Let em have some fun. It's been a rough few months."

"You're right." She kisses her chastely. "We should get some sleep."

"Yeah-" she kisses her again. "Night sweetie."

"Night Will-" the redhead settles back in the young Slayer's arms with her head on her shoulder.

As the sunlight begins to filter through the windows of the bus Giles pulls into the lot of a restaurant. The young Slayers crowd to the front, hungry and needing to stretch. With the noise the redhead slowly opens her eyes and smiles at the woman now under her. "Kennedy," she says softly and the young Slayer's eyes open. She smiles at the redhead above her and they kiss gently. "Morning."

"Miss waking up like this-" she smiles and they kiss again.

"Me too," agrees the witch.

"Could do it forever," Kennedy runs her fingers through red hair and pulls her down for another kiss.

"The bus stopped," says Willow.

"Think we're getting a room for a few days?"

"Maybe-" she says with a smile and sits up. She looks around the empty bus and out the window. "Looks like a restaurant-hungry?"

"Does it count as date number five?"

"No-"

"No-" pouts the younger woman.

"No-dinner and dancing sounded great-okay?"

"Okay-" they both stand and walk off the bus hand-in-hand.

When they get inside the others are already eating, "Thanks for waking us up?" complains Kennedy.

"Tried," answers Dawn. "You threatened to kick my ass."

"Sorry-" she sits down across from Willow who has joined Xander and Giles. They both pick up menus and the waitress comes over. "Ah-I'll have scrambled eggs, pancakes, bacon, hash browns, toast and milk. Will?"

"Pancakes and bacon," answers the redhead, "Oh and some orange juice." The waitress writes it down a little uncertain but leaves without asking. Kennedy holds Willow's hand across the table.

"So Giles are you planning a break anytime soon?"

"Later tonight-I'd like to get in 500 miles before we stop," he returns to his food and all but Xander miss his smile.

At the restaurant later Kennedy is just about finished eating. The others have gone back outside, except Giles and Xander. Giles smiles at Xander and they both look at the women beside them. "If you'll excuse us ladies-we'll meet you next door when you're finished."

"What's next door," asks the young Slayer between bites.

"There are some phones, the girls wanted to make a few calls."

Willow and Kennedy stand and let them out, then sit down again. "I'm sorry about dinner-" says the brunette.

"It's okay-someday."

"Yeah-that's a promise." They kiss softly and Kennedy continues to eat.

A few minutes later the couple walks out the door and look for the others. They see the new Slayers in the lobby of a hotel and both smile. "You think Giles was joking with us?" asks Kennedy.

Willow looks unsure, "I don't think he jokes." They walk into the hotel and Xander is standing just inside with a smile on his face. "Giles was kidding?" Xander nods. "We're staying here?" Again Xander nods. Willow squeals and hugs him. She turns and hugs Kennedy. "Date number five." She raises her eyebrows with a smile.

"I'll get reservations," she starts toward a phone.

"I'll get a room key-" Buffy walks up to her. "Here's your key roomie." She smiles.

Willow's smile fades, "Roomie?"

"You'd didn't want the same arrangements as before?"

"Sure-that's-that's fine." She looks toward the young Slayer, who shrugs but smiles.

That night the witch and the young Slayer are out on the town. They are dancing in each other's arms as the music plays softly in the background. As the music ends they return to their seats hand-in-hand. Willow smiles across at her date and Kennedy smiles back. "Having fun?"

"It's been amazing," redhead kisses her hand.

"Ready to go?"

"Your place and mochas?"

"Not unless we're giving Dawn a free show-but it'll be good I promise."

"Then lead the way."

Outside the restaurant is a horse drawn carriage, "Kennedy," Willow looks at her with a large smile, "This is too expensive."

"Nothing is too expensive if it's for you. Come on," she helps the woman into the carriage and then gets in beside.

"Ready ladies?" asks the driver.

"Ready," answers the young Slayer and with the witch snuggled into her arms the start away.

The night air is a little chilly and Willow holds the young Slayer a little tighter, "Cold baby?"

"A little-use to California weather-not-where ever we are weather."

Kennedy pulls her into a kiss, "Let's see if I can't warm you up." She says with a raised eyebrow as the kiss ends.

Willow looks toward the driver, "What about-"

"I told him I'd pay him an extra five if he didn't turn around," she smiles proud of her planning.

"Think five dollars will keep his eyes on the road?"

"Five-no-five hundred-pretty sure."

"Five hundred? Kennedy-"

Before she can protest farther the young Slayer's lips are on hers. "Money well spent," she whispers as they break the kiss and start a new one. Lips open and close together and then tongues explore one mouth and then the other. Needing air they finally break apart. With foreheads resting together Kennedy fights to control her breathing. She forces words out, "Need to touch you so bad-" her hands begin to caress the witch on top of clothes.

"I know what you mean-" her hands find their way to Kennedy's body as well. Again they kiss as hands caress, both moan-getting lost in each other. Willow finally pulls away. "Kenn-Kennedy." The young Slayer looks into her eyes, her breathing now panting.

"What-" she fights to compose herself, "I do something wrong?"

"No-just slow okay?"

"Okay-try-" she says as she moves the redhead onto her lap. They kiss again as their bodies press together-rubbing slowly. Kennedy's hands slip just under the witch's blouse and find bare skin. She traces circles on the redhead's back. Willow moans, her body instantly on fire. "You feel so good," she pulls out of the kiss.

The young Slayer leans back as Willow's hands find her breasts and she massages them gently. "Gods-Will-" their lips meet again, the rhythm of Willow's hands matching their lips.

Finally an hour later the two get out of the carriage in front of the hotel. They are both still a little winded-their faces flushed from their make out session. As they ride up the elevator Kennedy wraps the redhead in her arms from behind and she leans into the Slayer. "Want to come in for a while?" asks the Willow, softly.

"Better not-need a cold shower." she smiles.

"Yeah-right there with you." The door opens and they get out hand-in-hand.

They stop in front of Willow's door and Kennedy leans forward kissing her soundly. "Night-I love you."

Willow smiles, "Me too-"

Kennedy smiles as she kisses her again. "Breakfast?"

"Giles has that meeting planned."

"Right-forgot-other things on my mind." They both smile. "See you there-the lobby?"

"Lobby at 10:00-" they share one more kiss before Kennedy walks away.

Willow opens the door and goes inside. She closes it and leans against it, "Me too-it's close I guess." She runs her fingers through her hair and moves toward her bed.

The next morning everyone is gathered around for the meeting. Kennedy is sitting on the arm of Willow's chair, their fingers are laced together. Buffy smiles at Faith who whispers, "Whipped-"

"You say it like it's a bad thing," says the blonde Slayer.

"Wouldn't know-" she looks a little sad.

"It's not-" Kennedy chimes in- "take my word on it."

"Slayer hearing," mutters Faith.

"I keep forgetting too." Buffy looks at the Watcher.

"The reason I called this meeting is to let you know that the plan is to stay here for the next two weeks. Buffy, Xander, Dawn and I are going to rent a car and drive to Cleveland. We're going to look at some real estate and get the paperwork started. Faith and Willow will be in charge here-if there's a problem let them know."

Willow looks at Buffy and sees her smile, "So much for being my roomie-" the redhead states.

"Don't think you'll have a problem replacing me."

"Hey-" the witch exclaims, turning red as the others make moaning noises. Kennedy hides her face in Willow's shoulder. "Meanies." She pouts. Then she smiles, "Everyone under eighteen-curfew is ten." Groans go up filling the room. "Apologizing could cause me to reconsider." She smiles proudly as the young Slayers move toward her.

Later in the day Willow and Kennedy stand with the others as they get ready to leave. "Be careful," says Willow as she hugs each one.

"You do the same," says Giles with a smile. "Being in charge of teenagers is harder than it looks."

"We'll be fine-" says the redhead.

And Kennedy adds, "They get out of line and Faith's gonna kick their asses." She smiles.

Buffy smiles, "That's a plan-sort of."

Dawn who is upset about having to go tries one last time, "Please Buffy can't I stay?"

She looks at her sister, "Why don't you want to go? I thought you'd be excited about helping pick out the place?"

"I want to stay with people my own age. Please-Buffy I'll be good-or Faith can kick my ass too."

"Faith in charge of my little sister-there's just something so wrong with that-but okay."

"Okay-" asks Dawn with a tentative smile.

"Okay-stay out of trouble."

"I swear." She hugs her sister and runs back into the hotel.

Willow smiles at Buffy, "We'll keep an eye on her too-"

"Willow, I love you, but I know where your eyes will be." The redhead blushes. They load into the car and drive off.

Kennedy smiles at Willow and kisses her softly. "Dinner tonight?"

"We could have move night with the girls instead."

"Can we have mochas in your room after?"

"If you're good."

"I'm very good." She smiles a devilish smile as she kisses the witch again.

Willow leans in and whispers in her ear, "I remember."

Later that night the movies have ended and Willow and Dawn are cleaning up while Faith and Kennedy make sure the young Slayers are tucked in for the night. As Dawn puts the last of the pizza boxes in the garbage she turns to look at the redhead. "Should I wait up for my roommate or is she gonna sleep over?"

"She'll be back-but I wouldn't wait up."

"So things are better?"

"Yeah-thanks for the talk before." Willow hugs the teenager.

Before the conversation can go on Faith and Kennedy come back into the room. "All tucked in-" smiles Kennedy as she stands behind Willow her arms encircling her.

Faith smiles, feeling the sexual energy in the room- "Let's go Dawnie-maybe we can catch the comedy show downstairs."

"Don't you have to be twenty-one for that?" Asks Willow.

"I'm teasing Red-relax-we're gonna find ice cream."

"Cool-" smiles the teen as she and Faith leave.

Kennedy turns Willow in her arms and kisses her softly. "Movie night was a good idea."

"Wasn't mine actually-it was Xander's-something we always did when the fighting evil got too much."

"Another thing to thank him for." She kisses the redhead again. "Wanna snuggle on the bed?"

"Mmmm-could be talked into it." She takes Kennedy's hand and leads her to the bed. She sits down on it and pulls the young Slayer onto her lap.

"Doesn't exactly fit the description of snuggling-" she smiles as she kisses the witch chastely.

"Not exactly-more like making out-okay?" She smiles.

"Okay-" she smiles as she leans in again and captures the redhead's lips in a not so chaste kiss that causes the woman to moan-Kennedy takes the opportunity to move her tongue into her girlfriend's mouth and explore. She slides her tongue over and under the moaning woman's and then slowly pulls away.

"Love it when you do that-" pants the redhead. They young Slayer smiles and begins another heated kiss.

Down the hallway about eight rooms away the young Slayers are watching television. Faith's threat of a grueling workout forgotten as they laugh and talk.

Back in Willow's room the make out session is progressing as well. Kennedy's body is pinned under the redhead as she lies between her legs the upper bodies pressed together as they continue to kiss. Hands now caress bodies on top of clothes and Willow's gentle rocking motion is driving the young Slayer crazy. Kennedy finally puts her hands on the redhead hips and holds her still. The witch breaks the kiss and lets her head rest on the Slayer's shoulder. "Sorry-" she pants. "Got lost for a second-"

"It's okay-like it when you get lost but-need a little break." They both work on slowing their breathing when Kennedy's hands take on a life of their own as they begin to massage the redhead's ass causing her rocking to start again. "We gotta stop-"

Willow kisses her neck and down her chest as she raises up and moves beside the young Slayer. "Stopping now." She links hands with Kennedy.

"Damn-hate it when you listen to me." They both giggle and playfully start to tickle each other. Soon it is the redhead who finds herself pinned to the bed with Kennedy kissing her lips. Willow's hands caress Kennedy's back and work their way under her tank top as the young Slayer's tongue causes her to tingle inside. In their sex fogged mind they hear music blaring from down the hall. "Like that song-" pants the young Slayer as she breaks the kiss for air.

"Skate punk?"

"Think so-" she sits up and Willow sits up with her on her lap. She begins to work the tank top up the young Slayer's body- "Hey-that's date seven."

"Five was so good we're skipping six." She pulls the shirt off the Slayer and kisses her lips. Her hands tease hot skin as she traces small circles with her nails on Kennedy's back.

Kennedy works the buttons on the redhead's top and gives up finally just tearing them away. "I'll buy you a new one-promise."

"K-" they kiss again. Just as hands are starting to remove bras the phone rings. "Damn-" curses the redhead as she falls back to the bed. She crawls to the edge with Kennedy following her, kissing a path up her back to her shoulder. She reaches the phone, "Baby-" she pleads for the girl to stop and she does. "Hello-" she pants as she answers the phone. "Ah-yes-yes this is she." She sits up and begins to try to button her shirt then remembers. She moves to the drawer and gets a new one. "I'll take care of it." She hangs up the phone, slips on her shirt and looks at the half-dressed Slayer on the bed. "They are so dead."

"Want me to come with?"

"No-I don't want witnesses." She goes out the door and into the hallway as she nears the loud music she begins to chant-as she throws the door open she hits the boom box with a blast that gives its name a whole new meaning. She glares at the scared young Slayers- "Next time I come back..." her sentence dies as the Slayers dive into their beds and run back to their rooms. "Good night," she says with a smile as she closes the door.

Go On To Part 2(Chapters 6-10)

Send Feedback to the Author

Return to the LIFE Series Page

Return to the Site Home Page