The Not So Simple LIFE

See Part 1 for Ratings and Disclaimers

Chapter 6

"It's okay-" she kisses her as her hand trails along bare skin.

"Mmmm-are there bodies scattered up and down the hallway that I have to hide before daylight?" She smiles playfully as she pulls the redhead on top of her.

"No-" she admits, "but there may be by the time the workout is over tomorrow."

"Gonna tell Faith on them?"

"No-thought you could take care of it for me." She presses a kiss to the young Slayer's lips.

She smiles even bigger, "I can do that."

"Thank you-" she kisses her again, this time her lips linger a little longer and her hands touch dark skin.

"Mmmm-it's late-" Willow kisses her again, lips move against lips and the young Slayer turns the witch under her as she breaks the kiss, "I should go-"

"But we were-" she pouts. She runs her fingers up and down the girl's sides and then leans up to capture her lips again. As she breaks the kiss she confesses, "I don't want you to leave."

Their eyes meet and Kennedy smiles, "I don't want to leave either," her hands find their way to the redhead's breasts and she massages them gently. Moans fill the room as Willow arches into her hands. "But if I stay-" she moves her hands away and the witch whines her disapproval. Kennedy kisses her chastely and sits up. Willow sits up too, unsure. "I'm going now."

"Kennedy?"

"I want to do this like we planned-I don't want to just-" she pauses and bites her lip and then continues. "Understand?"

"Yeah-I get it." She leans in and kisses the young Slayer. "I'll see you in the morning."

"Definitely-come watch me torture them if you want. Back parking lot at 7:00."

"I'll be there." They both stand and walk to the door together. At the door they kiss again and Willow smiles. "Kennedy?"

"What baby?"

"Might wanna put your shirt back on."

Kennedy smiles,blushes and then rolls her eyes, "See what you do to me-" she hugs and kisses the redhead before she goes to get her shirt. Finally dressed she opens the door. They kiss again and she leaves.

The next morning Willow smiles as she watches the young Slayer instruct the others. The teens look tired and the sweat pours from them. Faith walks over to join her and they both smile. "Had a little trouble last night I hear."

"My Slayer's taking care of it."

"Looks like-" Faith smiles at the redhead's words. She wonders if the witch realizes what she said.

Willow's smile fades as she thinks of her words, 'My Slayer-" she watches the woman, who smiles and winks at her from across the lot. 'Yeah-' she confesses. 'My Slayer.' She smiles again and winks back.

Later that day the witch and her Slayer are eating lunch with the others, Vi walks over and stands next to the redhead. "I just want to apologize for last night." The redhead nods and smiles. "I should have stopped it before it got out of hand."

"Next time," Willow says.

"Right-" she looks at the young Slayer, "So we're cool Kennedy?"

"Sure-" the young woman starts to walk away. "Vi?" She turns back to her fellow Slayer. "Wanna spar later?"

"Yeah-sounds fun." She walks away and Kennedy's attention returns to the redhead.

"Softy-" smiles Willow as she leans in and kisses her Slayer.

"Hey-am not-I need to work out too you know."

"Of course-" she smiles as she takes her hand.

Later the new Slayers hang in the game room and Dawn joins them. Faith and Willow sit at a table in the sun drinking tea. "How's Robin?"

"Better-should be back to full strength in a few days," answers the Slayer. Willow smiles, "What?"

"Nothing-" says the witch.

"Red?" her tone is warning.

"Liked it when he was full strength?" she raises an eyebrow playfully.

"Red-" repeats the older Slayer.

"What? Just playing-a little-I can tease too you know?" She smiles.

"Only cause it's you-anyone else I kick their ass-so tell your Slayer to watch it."

"I'll tell her."

"Where is she anyway? Not used to seeing one without the other."

"She's hanging with the newbies."

"She is kinda young-" Faith smirks. "You sure she's legal?"

"Legal?"

"Eighteen?"

"Yeah-" she says not so sure. "I mean I didn't ask for a birth certificate before we-" she stops and fights away a blush refusing to let Faith win. She pauses composing herself. "You know something I don't?"

"No-I'm just saying-"

"She would have told me right?"

"Sure Red-" she says with a smile. "I mean-I would have told you."

Willow nervously looks toward the game room. "I'll be back."

"Right." She smiles as the redhead leaves. "Got you-it's too easy."

Willow walks to the game room and Kennedy smiles when she sees her. "Hey-" she takes her hand. "Missed you."

"Missed you-can we go for a walk?"

"Sure-let me finish my game first?"

She forces a smile and nods, "Okay if I watch?" Kennedy smiles and turns back to her game. Willow watches as she talks and jumps up and down as she dies, then high fives the others when she sets a new high score.

Later they are walking hand-in-hand down the sidewalk. Kennedy stops and pulls her into a loose hug, "Something not right?"

"No-I mean-the other day when we were talking about school-" Willow stops.

"I promise as soon as we get settled I'll finish."

"Okay-but how old-" she again stops not sure she wants to hear the answer.

Kennedy figures out what she wants to know, "Willow I'm eighteen-" she smiles.

"Eighteen?" repeats the redhead.

"Yes-you wanna see my license?"

"Yes-" Kennedy reaches for her wallet. "No-no I believe you." She holds her Slayer's hand and they start to walk again.

"It's not like my parents would do anything to you if I weren't."

Willow's heart drops, the uncertainty returning. Kennedy looks unsure herself, sadness covering her features.

Late that night Willow and Kennedy are spooned together on her bed. They are quiet. Kennedy holds her close and kisses her neck. "Will-?" The redhead doesn't answer. "Are you asleep?"

"No-" she says softly.

"I need to tell you something-" she kisses her shoulder.

"Okay-" she braces for the worst.

"My birthday is next Saturday-" she traces circles on her redhead's shoulder.

"Nineteen?" she asks but she knows the answer.

"No-" she whispers. Willow turns to face the girl and their eyes meet. The redhead sees the tears in the soft chocolate eyes. "I didn't mean to lie-"

"I know-" she whispers, surprised that she isn't angry. She reaches and wipes away a tear from her Slayer's face.

"I'm sorry-" says the young Slayer.

"Next Saturday?"

"Next Saturday-ten days from now," she starts to get up.

Willow's hand on her hip stops her, "Where are you going?"

"To get my license," says the teenager.

"Don't need to see them," Willow smiles slightly. "I trust you."

Kennedy snuggles back into her arms and lets out a sigh. "Now what?"

"We plan a party," she smiles. Kennedy leans in and tries to kiss her but Willow stops her. "No more of that till next Saturday," she looks sad.

"But-that's a long time."

Willow agrees, "Ten more days."

Later when her young Slayer has returned to her room Willow quietly walks down the hallway and knocks on Faith's door. The Slayer opens it, her eyes trying to stay open. "Red-something wrong?"

"Wrong no-I'm just going to jail."

Before the rant can reach full speed Faith pulls her inside and closes the door. "What are you talking about?"

"She's seventeen-"

Faith sits on her bed, "Whoa-yo-I was just teasing-"

"You might have been, but it's true-" she paces around the room. "They find out and I'm going to jail-the big house-the-"

Faith stands and puts her hands on the redhead's shoulders, stopping her, "Red-relax-so she's a little underage-it's not a big deal. It happens."

"Not a big deal-then why is there a law?" Asks the redhead near panic. "I'm a bad person-I-"

"Chill-she didn't do anything she didn't want to do-"

"Maybe but I was the adult-"

"And as far as you knew so was she-" Willow is quiet, unable to refute the once dark Slayer's words.

The next day the redhead and the young Slayer are sitting at breakfast. Kennedy speaks, "I'm sorry Willow-" she starts to take her hand but stops. "Not touching you is gonna be really hard."

"Believe me I know, but ten days isn't that long."

"Ten days then three more dates-"

"I should make you start the ten dates over-" teases the redhead.

"I would-if that's what you want," their eyes meet. "To make up for-"

"It's in the past so let's just move forward okay?-But no more secrets."

"Deal-" They are quiet until Kennedy speaks again, "That's why I love you."

Willow looks unsure, "Why?"

"I don't have to be perfect-I can just be me," her eyes are again sad.

"Don't forget that-huh?" She brushes her foot against Kennedy's under the table and the young Slayer smiles at her. Kennedy touches her hand gently but pulls away as Faith plops down in the chair beside the redhead.

"Mind if I join you?" She asks with a smile.

"Kinda," states Kennedy.

"We were-" starts Willow.

"I saw-" says the older Slayer.

Willow nearly panics again. "You think anyone else did?"

"Hard to say-but I think I'll just be your best bud for the next week or so."

"Great-" says Kennedy as she rolls her eyes.

Willow looks at her sadly, "It won't be long baby."

"It'll seem like forever-" whines the young Slayer.

Faith now rolls her eyes, "Drama queen-deal with it-" she stands. "Come on-" she puts a hand on Kennedy's arm and the teenager stands. "I'll kick your ass, that'll make you forget for awhile."

"Faith," Willow's voice rings of uncertainty.

"I won't hurt her Red-"

"Like you could," says Kennedy.

They start away and Willow smiles at the older Slayer's come back. "I so could-"

Chapter 7

The young Slayer picks up her redhead and holds her against the door. To help, Willow wraps her legs around her waist. Kennedy kisses down her neck and slides her tongue ring against soft skin receiving another loud moan for her efforts. She smiles; she moves her hands to the buttons of Willow's jeans as she takes a hard peek between her lips. The redhead shutters as Kennedy's fingers find their way around soft denim.

Kennedy falls to the floor as a roundhouse kick hits her in the head. Faith looks shocked as she looks at the fallen young Slayer, "Shit!" She kneels down beside her and watches her slowly open her eyes. "You okay?"

"What happened?" She asks still foggy.

"We were sparring," answers Faith.

"No-I remember Willow and I were-" she growls, "But we weren't cause we can't-" she tries to sit up and does with the older Slayer's help.

Faith smiles relived that Kennedy is okay and she doesn't have to explain to a pissed off redhead how she hurt her. "Must have been some fantasy Junior."

"Oh-yeah-" her smile fades.

Faith stands, "Let's get some ice for your eye," she reaches down and helps Kennedy up. The young Slayer is a little wobbly. "You okay?"

"Dizzy-but it'll go away." They walk toward her room.

Dawn is there when Faith brings the young Slayer in, "What happened?"

"She walked into a roundhouse kick."

"I'll get ice-"

"Thanks- Dawnie." She goes out the door as Kennedy crawls onto her bed.

"Room's all spinny."

"Shit-I think you have a concussion."

"Cool-" smiles the young Slayer.

"Not cool-bad-really bad." Dawn comes back in and makes an ice pack. She hands it to Faith. "Thanks." She puts it on Kennedy's head.

"Think we should get Willow?"

"Yeah-" smiles Kennedy.

"Maybe-" admits Faith.

Dawn looks into the young Slayer's eyes and sees they are not dilated. "I don't think it's a concussion-"

"Good-" Faith breathes a sigh of relief. "Wasn't looking forward to explaining that one to Red."

"So she's not coming?" Asks Kennedy.

"Only in your dreams-" smirks Faith.

"Aw, but it was some dream."

In the hallway Faith and Dawn talk, "Keep an eye on her while I tell Red?"

"Sure-" smiles the teenager.

"Thanks-I owe you." She leaves and Dawn smiles.

Later Faith, Willow, Kennedy and Dawn are having dinner. Kennedy's eye is black and there is a small cut above her eye. "You okay baby?" Asks the redhead.

"I'm okay Will-and don't be mad at Faith-it was my fault for not paying attention."

Willow looks at the older Slayer, "I'm not mad-"

"Yeah?" Smiles the Slayer.

Dawn smiles too and Willow watches her watch the older Slayer as she and Kennedy tell the story of the kick. Willow smiles an uneasy smile.

Two days later Kennedy and Faith are in the training room of the hotel working out again. It is the only thing that seems to keep the young Slayer's mind off the redhead and the fact that touching her is a no-no for a little more than a week. The Slayers pound away at each other. Faith ducks a right hand and hits Kennedy square in the jaw with a roundhouse kick that sends her to the mat. "You okay Junior?" She asks her hands still up as she bounces in front of her.

"Fine," she says as she stands still trying to shake out the fogginess. "Damn," she flexes her neck before standing in front of the older Slayer again.

"Maybe we should take a break?"

"I'm good-let's go." Again she swings at the older woman and again Faith is able to avoid it.

"You're off balance," she states.

"Shut up and fight," she says.

"Look I promised Red I wouldn't hurt you again but you keep running your mouth-" Kennedy swings and hits her in the mouth, blood flies. Faith wipes it away and stares at the teenager. "I'm giving you that one cause you're a little tense-but we're done here." She turns away.

"What you afraid?" Asks Kennedy, her voice full of anger and frustration.''

Faith stops and turns to her, "You're still standing cause I keep my word. Let's take a break-get a burger-we can do this again later if you want."

"I want-" she growls in frustration, "I want-" she looks at Faith and fights away tears.

"I know what you want-same as me, but Robin's still on the injured list and Red doesn't want to do 6 months to two years-so-we'll just chill and deal cause times on our side- yo."

Kennedy shakes her head and smiles, "Pizza-I'm tired of burgers."

"You're buying-so, whatever." She puts her arm around the girl's neck and pulls her toward the door.

Later Willow and Dawn are sitting at the ice cream shop eating ice cream sundaes and drinking mochas. "Too much sugar," moans Dawn as she drops her spoon into the half empty bowl.

"No such thing-" says the redhead as she still eats.

"You doing okay?"

Willow looks up at the teenager in front of her, "Mostly-" she pauses. "Still can't believe I-" she rolls her eyes and shakes her head. "Can't say the words."

"Had sex with a-"

Willow puts a hand over Dawn's mouth, "Don't want to hear them either, thank you very much."

"Sorry-" says the girl her smile gone.

"It's okay-If I get through today it's just one week."

"Are you planning a party?"

"Haven't decided-maybe-" she shrugs.

"Maybe just a private party?" Again she smiles.

"Maybe," Willow smiles too.

"Will-can I ask you something?"

"As long as it has nothing to do with age."

"No ages involved I swear." She looks at her hands then up at her friend, "How did you know?" Willow looks unsure. "When you met Tara I mean?"

Willow smiles at the name, "Ah-how did I know it was more then a friends kinda thing?" The teenager nods. "It's hard to explain."

Dawn plays in her ice cream before looking up at Willow, "Can you try?"

"Yeah-" smiles the witch.

Later Willow and Dawn are walking back to the hotel. "So," smiles the redhead "you gonna tell me who this girl is?"

"Promise you won't freak?"

Willow nods already knowing the answer. "No freaking-promise."

"And you won't tell Buffy?"

"If she asks I can't lie-"

"But you won't volunteer the information?"

"No volunteering."

"Faith."

"Thought so-" Willow pauses. "You know she's into Robin right?"

"You think?"

"Pretty sure, I heard her talking to Kennedy."

"I can wait-" smiles the teenager.

"Lot of that going around," smiles the redhead as she bumps shoulders with the girl.

As they go into the hotel they see Kennedy and Faith waiting for the elevator. They stand there together and Kennedy looks at the redhead. "Hey-"

"Hey-" returns the young Slayer. They get on together and stand silently.

Faith looks at Dawn and grins, "Hear that noise Dawnie?"

"Like a grinding sound?" She plays along.

"Yeah-" the older Slayer pushes the button and the elevator stops. "I should check it out." She climbs on the handrail and pops out a tile. She pulls herself through the opening, "Wanna give me a hand?" She asks as she sticks her head back down into the car.

"I will-" says Kennedy. "But I didn't hear-" before she can finish Faith has Dawn by the hand and pulls her out of sight.

Willow and Kennedy stand alone in the elevator nervously. "Miss you," says the teenager quietly.

"I miss you too," Willow reaches out and takes her hand.

"The elevator isn't broken is it?" Asks the young Slayer.

"Faith's way of giving us a little time."

"Better make the best of it then."

"Better," she pulls her young Slayer into a tight hug and holds her against her body-her head resting on her shoulder.

"I want to kiss you-" says Kennedy, her hands caressing Willow's back.

"I want that too-but we can't-" their eyes meet.

"One kiss Will-" she says softly. "Just one."

Giving in she leans forward and their lips meet and move together at a gentle but rushed pace. They pull apart for air. "Goddess-" breathes the redhead as she steps back. "You okay?"

"Helped-" she smiles, "might get me through the day."

"Think I got it," calls the Slayer before lowering Dawn back into the elevator. She then drops in as well. She pushes the button and the elevator starts up again. "Working great." She smiles at Willow and Kennedy before turning back to Dawn. "Thanks Dawnie."

"It was fun," smiles the teen.

Willow watches a little uneasy and Kennedy picks up on the vibe as well.

The next day Faith and Kennedy have finished sparring and are wolfing down their third pizza. Kennedy looks up at the Slayer and smiles, "Thanks-"

"Don't thank me, you're paying."

"Not for the food-for hanging out you know?"

"It's nothing."

"Still-it helps." Faith smiles and nods.

They eat in silence for a few seconds before Kennedy speaks again. "Can I ask you something?"

"Sure Junior-always like giving pointers." She smirks and Kennedy rolls her eyes.

"Are you straight?"

"Look I know you got major double H's but we're not going there." She puts her pizza down.

Kennedy looks at her in shock as she realizes what the Slayer thinks. "No-I wasn't-that wasn't why-only Willow-" she clarifies.

"Right," she fidgets slightly, "I knew that."

Again there is quiet as they both eat. Finally Kennedy tries again. "Are you straight-?" Faith glares at her- "Cause I'm picking up straight but" she stops again. "Never mind."

Later as they are walking back to the hotel Faith looks at the young Slayer, "Usually drive stick but I've been known to shift gears." Kennedy nods her understanding. She walks the rest of the way wondering why the question was asked.

The next day Willow and Kennedy are sitting by the pool. The redhead smiles at the young Slayer as she takes off her cover up to get into the water. "Beautiful," she whispers with a smile and Kennedy blushes.

"Coming in?"

"Not right now-gonna read," she holds up a book. Kennedy nods and dives into the water slashing her and she squeals. "I'll get you," she glares playfully.

'Already have me,' the words enter Willow's mind telepathically. The redhead smiles.

Faith sits beside her and the witch looks her way, "How are you holding up?"

"Did you see the suit she's in?" Faith shakes her head. "Wish I hadn't."

"You could forget about the six days, I mean come on Red nobody else knows," says Faith.

"Wish I could, but I know and I can't-I can't-it's not that long." Kennedy comes out of the water and toward them Willow gasps.

Faith looks at the redhead, "Red-breathe." Willow finally does.

"Didn't swim long," Willow is able to say as she stands next to her.

"Decided to lie in the sun instead. Will you put lotion on my back?"

"Ah-I-Kennedy-I should go inside." With those words the redhead leaves.

"What just happened?" Asks Kennedy unsure.

"Are you trying to kill her? Faith laughs.

"No-" says the young Slayer. Faith looks down and then up the girl's body. "Shit-" says Kennedy as she looks toward her redhead. "I wasn't thinking."

"Wicked obvious."

That night Willow and Kennedy are sitting on the bed in the redhead's room. The room is quiet and it is Willow who finally speaks. "Kennedy I think that if we're gonna get through the next six days we shouldn't"- she stops and turns the girl to face her. "It's hard to be with you and not hold your hand or kiss you." Again she stops.

Kennedy touches her hand and looks into her eyes, "I don't think any of that is wrong."

"I do-" she says simply.

"What's different in six days?-" the young Slayer stands up.

"You'll be eighteen."

"Legally-but I'll still be me-the same as I am now, just six stupid days older."

"Do you realize I could go to jail?" Willow stands too.

"It's not gonna happen-one, they don't care about me-they never have. Two, they don't know where I am. Please Willow-I need you."

"I can't," she backs away.

"So-what you don't want to see me?" Tears start to form in her eyes but she won't allow them to fall.

"Kennedy-please try to understand-it's just for a few days."

"Great-frigging great." The tears fall as she runs out the door.

Willow starts after her but she's on the elevator and gone before she can catch her. The redhead continues to Faith's door and knocks. The older Slayer opens it. "What's up Red?"

"She's really upset I think she left the hotel-make sure she's okay?" Faith nods, grabs her jacket and heads out the door. Willow stands in the hallway and cries.

Faith finds the young Slayer sitting in the park tears streaming down her face. "Junior I've been looking for you for hours. Let's head home."

"I don't get it-" she says softly.

"You don't have to get it you just have to respect what she wants."

"I guess-but it feels like she's pushing me away."

"Not happening-she's just a little freaked but she loves you."

"I hope you're right-" says the Slayer as she stands.

"She sent me after you," says Faith.

Kennedy smiles, "Yeah?"

"Yeah-so get your ass moving, so I can tell her you're back. Got plans yo-"

"Robin?" Smiles the young Slayer as they walk.

"If it's any of your business," she bumps shoulders with the teenager.

"So planning on getting-" she is stopped by Faith.

"Don't finish that sentence Junior-or you might miss the next six days altogether."

"Not a bad idea."

At the hotel Faith knocks on the redhead's door and it opens immediately. Kennedy is standing there with her. "Talk-" says the older Slayer.

"Sorry for getting all-" she stops as their eyes meet.

"You're okay?"

"Except for the missing you already part."

Faith smiles, "Say good night Junior."

"Good night Willow-" she reaches out and touches her hand.

"Night-" she smiles as the teenaged Slayer turns to go to her room. Faith turns to go as well. "Faith-" she looks at the redhead. "I owe you-"

"Way I figure it-I'm still behind. Try to get some sleep." Willow nods and closes the door.

The next day Willow sits in her room staring out the window. Tears slip silently down her cheeks. She hears a soft knock at the door and looks toward it- "Give me a minute." She stands, goes to the mirror and wipes her eyes. She runs her fingers through her hair and walks to the door. She opens it to find no one. She looks down and sees five red roses with a card attached. She bends to pick them up, bringing the flowers to her nose she breathes in the scent. The card simply says 'Five days.' She smiles and looks down the hallway to see her young Slayer peeking out her door. Kennedy smiles at her and waves before slipping back inside. Willow closes her door quietly as well and leans against it.

Later that day Kennedy is sitting on her bed as Dawn comes out of the shower dressed to go out. She looks toward the young Slayer, "We're going to the game room and then to get ice cream wanna come with?"

"Nah-not much fun at the moment."

"Really-couldn't tell-" she rolls her eyes. Kennedy glares at her. "Look time will pass faster if you get out."

Kennedy considers her words, "You could have a point."

"It's entirely possible-because I'm a teenager and we know everything." She smiles.

Kennedy rolls her eyes but she stands and they leave together.

The game room was fun and thoughts of Willow had been to a minimum but the ice cream shop was a different thing altogether. Kennedy and her redhead had spent more than one night in Sunnydale talking, laughing and making out over ice cream-and all the memories came flooding back. Dawn notices the sudden change in the young Slayer and puts a hand on hers. Kennedy looks up at her, "You okay?" She shrugs." Wanna talk?"

"Nah-later maybe." Dawn goes back to her ice cream her hand unmoving. Kennedy watches as a young Slayer watches Dawn. She smiles at the girl and tries to remember her name. "Erin?"

"Right-do me a favor?"

"Sure Kennedy," says the teenager.

Kennedy stands, "See Dawn gets home okay?"

"I can do that."

"What I'm twelve and I need a sitter?"

"Trust me," whispers the teenage as she stops beside Dawn. "Later."

"Later," says Dawn as Erin moves to take Kennedy's seat. The two start talking.

Once inside the hotel Dawn and Erin talk as they wait for the elevator. Five minutes later they are still waiting. "Think it's broken?" Before Dawn can answer, it opens and Faith and Robin, still adjusting their clothes walk out.

"Hey Dawnie-how was ice cream?"

Dawn stares as she puts the scene together and fights tears as she answers, "Fine." She steps into the elevator and Erin follows.

The ride up is a quiet one as Erin tries to figure out what happened and Dawn tries to deal with the realization that Faith and Robin are together. The elevator stops and they walk off, "You okay?" Asks Erin.

"Will be-" states Dawn.

"What happened?" Dawn shakes her head. "If you want to talk I'm in room 233."

"Thanks." Dawn turns and goes into her room. Kennedy sees instantly that she is upset.

"What happened?"

"Nothing-" says Dawn as she goes to get her nightclothes.

"Did Erin-" Kennedy is standing.

"It has nothing to do with Erin." She pauses. "Erin's cool-"

"Then what?"

"Elevator problems-then Faith and Robin-and-" the tears finally fall. Kennedy sits beside her. "I like her."

"I know-but she's really into Robin."

"Doesn't mean she-I mean Willow dated Oz and now-"

"Dawn-" she stops deciding she doesn't know how to handle things.

"I really like her-" she cries harder as Kennedy holds her.

"Want me to get Willow?" Dawn nods against her shoulder.

Willow is sleeping, dreaming about her young Slayer. They are wrapped up together, naked bodies sliding as one. Fingers slip between slick folds and she cries out- "Kennedy!"

Willow wakes to find the young Slayer standing above her, she still pants her breathing ragged and she blushes. "Good dream Will?"

The redhead pulls her down into a passionate kiss, her tongue seeks entrance and is given access as they explore together. Kennedy pulls away. "Kennedy-I'm-I didn't-"

"Dawn needs you," says Kennedy and with those words the redhead is up and across the room to the door. Kennedy stands unable to move her mind replaying the kiss. Her body trembles and she reaches down to touch Willow's pillow. She smiles as she sees the roses on the nightstand.

In Kennedy's room Willow is holding a crying Dawn as she tells her about Faith and Robin. Willow kisses her forehead and rubs her back. Kennedy stands in the doorway and watches silently. Faith walks to her, "Junior, what's wrong?" She looks into the room and sees Dawn is crying. "Dawnie?" The girl cries harder.

Willow speaks, "Kennedy-" she motions with her eyes for them to leave.

"We'll be in Faith's room." They leave though the older Slayer isn't happy about it.

In the hallway Faith stops, "What's going on?"

"Where's Robin?"

"His room-I wanted to check on Dawn she didn't seem herself when I saw her before so-"

"You really don't know?"

"Know what?"

"She likes you-"

"I like her-" realization slowly covers the older Slayer's face. "Shit!"

"Exactly-" says Kennedy.

Faith runs her fingers through her hair, "B's gonna kill me for real this time."

The blonde Slayer speaks from behind her, "What did you do now?"

Faith turns and her face pales.

Chapter 8

"I-well-B-it's not like-" She stops and straightens herself and rolls her neck getting ready to defend herself.

"There was some trouble with the hotel-" starts Kennedy.

"And I was gone-out with Dawn," she shakes her head, "Not out with Dawn on a date or anything-out for ice cream-" she stops again not sure where Kennedy is headed.

"But Willow handled it and then the next day I made training really hard and they apologized and it's cool now."

"But we wanted to tell you-" adds Faith.

"I thought it was something bad-" She looks at the nervous Slayers. "Good night-so need sleep. We'll talk tomorrow morning-or afternoon."

"Right," says Kennedy and Faith in unison. Buffy goes into her room.

Faith and Kennedy head for the young Slayer's room. As they go inside Willow and Dawn look up at them. "Still talking here-" says Willow.

"Sorry," says Kennedy. "Just thought you should know Buffy's back." Dawn looks worried, "She went to her room-so it's cool." Dawn relaxes a little.

Faith moves toward the teenager, "Look Dawn-we should talk."

Willow stands, "Maybe now isn't such a good time."

"No-now's good," says Dawn as she looks up at the older Slayer.

"Want us to stay?" Asks Kennedy.

"Dawn?" Faith looks at her unsure. The teenager shakes her head and Willow and Kennedy leave. "I didn't know," starts the older Slayer.

"Now you do-"

"Now I do-but-"

"Robin-?" Dawn looks into her eyes.

"Robin and Buffy-"

"You like Buffy too?" Dawn stands upset.

"No-not like that-" she stands beside the teenager. "I just don't think she'd like the idea of us together."

"You've thought about it?"

"Some-" she answers honestly, with a small smile. Dawn smiles too. "Who wouldn't?"

"What now?"

"Now isn't right-" she looks at the teenager's sad eyes. "I'm sorry."

"So am I-" she fights tears.

Faith steps closer and puts her hand on Dawn's cheek. "My loss-"

Dawn wipes away a tear and to Faith's surprise leans in and kisses her lips softly. "Maybe someday."

"My luck's not that good,-but I can hope," smiles Faith. They are silent for a few minutes and the older Slayer speaks again. "We okay?" She lets her hand rest on Dawn's shoulder. The younger Summers girl simply nods. "We can still hang?" Again she nods. "Night."

"Night." Faith leaves and she closes the door as tears fall once again.

The next day Faith is working out again with Kennedy though neither seems to really be into it. Kennedy finally stops and looks at the older Slayer. "You okay?"

"Didn't sleep much," Faith says.

"Dawn's okay-I mean not okay-okay, but she will be."

"Yeah-" she jabs at the younger Slayer. "Come on, I kick your ass, I'll feel better."

"You can try," says Kennedy with a cocky smile as she takes her fighting stance. They punch at each other neither having an advantage until the door opens and Buffy walks in. Faith sees her and is distracted. Kennedy lands a hard kick to her temple and the once dark Slayer hits the mat out cold. "Shit!-Faith." She moves to her, as does Buffy.

"Nice kick-wow-the form-"

"Thanks-but so not important at the moment." She touches Faith's cheek. "Faith can you hear me?"

Buffy goes to the fountain and gets a cup of water. She pours it on the Slayer and smiles waiting for her to come out fighting. When she doesn't she looks concerned. "Let's get her up stairs."

Kennedy carries her into the room she shares with Dawn because it's the closest. She puts her on the bed. Hearing voices Dawn comes from the bathroom her toothbrush in hand. She sees Faith, "What happened?" worry fills her words.

"A kick to the head," says Kennedy.

She looks at her sister, "Why did you-nothing happened between-"

Kennedy cuts her off, "We were sparring-it was an accident Buffy didn't-"

"Why would you think-" the blonde Slayer looks confused but decides taking care of Faith is the issue now.

"I'll get Willow-" says the young Slayer.

"And I'll get ice," continues Buffy. They both leave the room.

Dawn sits on the side of the bed, her hand traces a path across the once dark Slayer's cheek and she presses a kiss to her forehead, "Open your eyes, please be okay?" She fights tears. "Please be okay-" she repeats as she kisses her forehead again.

Buffy walks in with the ice, "Dawnie?"

The teenager looks up and tears fall. Buffy moves toward her.

In the hallway Kennedy and Willow are jogging toward the room, "No more sparring for the two of you-we'll find some other way to be distracted."

Kennedy smiles, "Kissing you always works." Willow rolls her eyes.

"I'll deal with you later."

In the room Buffy looks at her sister as the younger Summers holds the ice pack on the corner of Faith's eyes. "Dawnie-" Buffy starts. "Are the two of you-"

"No-" answers the teenager, regret in her voice.

"But you like her?"

"Can we not do this now?" asks Dawn as she wipes away tears.

"Okay-but we are going to talk about it after."

"Maybe we should take her to the hospital?"

"She hates hospitals-" says Willow as she walks in with Kennedy.

"I know," says Buffy. "But maybe we should. She has been out for awhile."

Willow takes out a pen light and checks each pupil. "It could be a concussion-"

Buffy looks unsure, "Could be?"

"We should take her," says the redhead.

"Okay-but she's gonna be pissed," agrees the oldest Slayer.

Kennedy starts to pick her up but Buffy stops her, "I've got her." Dawn looks unsure. "You tell Giles to meet us in the car." Kennedy nods and leaves.

"I'm going with you-" says Dawn.

"Yeah-okay-just grab a blanket." They all leave the room.

At the hospital Buffy sits beside of Dawn in the waiting room. She holds her sister's hand and worries. Kennedy and Willow sit there also, hands linked together as they watch the door Faith went through. Giles is again filling out paperwork.

Willow speaks softly to Kennedy, "We didn't tell Robin-" she seems worried. "I should call-" she stands. "Or maybe I shouldn't-cause of Dawnie."

Dawn hears and speaks softly, "Call him."

"You want me to come with you?" asks Kennedy. Willow shakes her head and without thinking her young Slayer leans in and kisses her gently. "I'll be right here." She kisses her forehead and Willow goes toward the payphones.

Later they are still waiting the only differences is that now Giles and Robin are with them. The door finally opens and the doctor walks toward them. Everyone stands up as he gets nearer. "She's got a concussion," he confirms.

"Is she awake?" asks Dawn.

"She's still unconscious and to be honest it concerns us. Is there medical history we should know about?"

Buffy looks toward Willow and the redhead moves to her side. Kennedy is unsure but silent. Buffy fights emotions as they rage through her and the memories return. The fight, the knife, the blood-finally she speaks. "There was an accident a few years ago," she stops.

Willow continues, "She lost a great deal of blood and was in a coma."

"How long did the coma last?"

"Almost a year-" supplies the watcher as Willow puts an arm around Buffy.

Robin speaks for the first time, "Can we see her?"

"Later-" he looks around at the group of people assembled. "I've ordered a few tests. Someone will let you know when." He leaves and they all look at each other but no one speaks. Kennedy moves to her redhead and wraps her arms around her.

Hours later just before sunset Buffy looks around the room. Robin is at the window and Kennedy has Willow wrapped in her arms as they sit together on a small couch. Giles is walking back toward them he stops beside the blonde Slayer. "I think it would be wise if some of us went back to the hotel. Xander says the others are getting a bit edgy and there's patrolling that needs done-" he stops.

Kennedy kisses Willow on the cheek and stands. "I'll go back with you-talk to the newbies and we'll make a few quick sweeps."

Giles nods, "I'll meet you in the car." He walks toward the door.

Willow stands to face her Slayer, "Be careful," their eyes meet. She stops herself just before she leans in to kiss her. "Coming back later?"

"I'll be back-" she smiles in her best Terminator impression and even Dawn smiles. She hugs her and leaves.

Willow sits down and Buffy looks her way, she whispers something to Dawn who nods and the Slayer walks to sit beside her best friend. "Buy you a mocha?"

"They have mochas?"

"They have a cafeteria so maybe." They walk away arm-in-arm. "So-my friend, what's the word?"

"Word?"

"No good-bye kiss for your sweetie?"

Willow rolls her eyes and shakes her head. "Long story-funny actually if you're not me-I'll tell you someday."

"Why not this day?" They walk into the cafeteria and get in line.

"Let's see how do I put this so that it doesn't sound like I'm a-perv-" she shakes her head again and as she picks up a cup and pushes the button on the machine as she looks at her friend. "My girlfriend-she's the same age as your sister." Buffy is speechless-she opens her mouth but no words come out. Willow shrugs, "Go away for a few days and see what happens?"

In the waiting room a nurse walks from the room Faith has been in for hours and over to Robin and Dawn who are now sitting side by side. "She's settled in a room now-you can go in but don't stay long." Both stand and nod. They follow her down the hallway and into a room. Tears slip from Dawn's eyes as she sees the Slayer hooked up to several machines. One is an I.V. line that drips a clear liquid, the other measures brain activity- "I'll be right outside at the station if you need anything."

It is Robin who speaks, "Thank you." She leaves and he looks toward the teenager. "She'll be okay-she's strong."

"Right-a Slayer," agrees Dawn not sure who she's trying to convince. She takes a tentative step toward the woman but stops short of the bed. Robin moves to the chair and sits beside her.

"Faith-it's Robin-open your eyes for me." He takes her hand and Dawn leans against the wall and cries.

Buffy stands in the room with her sister. She has her arm around her, "It's really late," she brushes her fingers through Dawn's hair. "Let me take you home for awhile-get some sleep?" Dawn shakes her head. "I'll bring you back first thing in the morning."

"I want to stay," she whispers.

"Okay," says the oldest Slayer.

Robin who isn't looking too good either stands. Willow goes to his side, "You need some sleep too," concern feels her eyes.

"Just some air," he looks at the Slayer as she rests on the bed and he presses a kiss to her forehead. "I won't be gone long." He goes out the door.

Willow looks toward the blonde Slayer and then to Dawn, Buffy squeezes her sister's arm, "You be okay by yourself for a few minutes?"

"I'm not by myself," she says as she moves to the chair and sits down taking Faith's hand in hers.

"We won't be long-just want to check on Robin." They leave quietly.

Dawn moves closer to the Slayer and whispers in her ear, "You have to be okay-I can deal with you not being with me-I can, but you have to be okay-please be okay." She lays her head on Faith's shoulder and kisses her cheek. "Please open your eyes."

Twenty minutes later that's how Buffy finds her, asleep on Faith's shoulder. She walks to her sister and brushes her hair from her face. She is a little startled when she sees Faith's eyes slowly open. "B-" she breathes out unsure.

"Hey-" Buffy smiles.

Faith looks down at the teenager sleeping on her shoulder. "B-I-"

"Relax-we'll talk later."

"So you know?"

"Not a lot-I know she likes you."

Dawn slowly opens her eyes as the voices drift through her mind. "Faith-" she smiles and tears fall as she looks into her eyes. Without thinking she leans in and kisses the Slayer on the lips. She pulls back and apologizes. "Sorry-"

"Don't be-" she fights to keep her eyes open. "What happened?"

"You don't remember?" Asks Buffy.

"Remember sparring with Junior and I saw you come in-nothing after that."

"With good reason," smiles Kennedy from the door- "You didn't duck and I kicked you in the head."

"That would explain it-" she tries to sit up but Dawn's hand on her shoulder stops her.

"You should stay still till the doctor looks at you," says the teenager.

Deciding not to argue she rests her head back on the pillow, "Then get the doctor-I want out of here."

Buffy nods, "I'll get him and Robin-he's been worried too."

"Right," says Faith as she looks at Dawn's hand still tangled with hers. "Dawnie-" she starts but stops.

"It's okay-" smiles the girl, "I understand." She squeezes her hand and then tries to let go but Faith doesn't. "Faith-?"

"It's a weird thing being knocked out-your mind just sort of wanders and you think a lot-" she lets the sentence fall as Robin comes in. He notices their hands almost immediately. She looks at Dawn, "Talk more later?" Dawn nods and lets her go as she leaves the room. Faith smiles up at Robin and he smiles back. "We've been spending way too much time here."

"True-" he smiles and sits beside her on the bed.

At the hotel later Faith is crawling into her bed. Buffy and Dawn are with her. "I appreciate the attention, I do, but if the two of you are with me, who's watching Red and Junior?"

"They don't need watched."

Faith smiles though it makes her head hurt, "You missed some stuff-"

"Willow caught me up-four days now?" Questions the blonde.

Dawn looks at the clock and it reads 12:47- "Actually just three now."

"They can't keep their hands off each other that long," says Faith.

"Willow can-I saw her resolve face," assures Buffy.

"Right," says Faith as she and Dawn both smile.

"What?"

"You keep telling yourself that," says Dawn.

"You really think we should check on them?" Asks the oldest Slayer.

"It's up to you," says Faith.

Buffy rolls her eyes but stands, "I won't be long so the two of you-" she stops and shakes her head. She leaves.

"Poor B-" says Faith, "She doesn't know who to watch."

Dawn looks unsure, "Why would she have to watch us?"

"Cause she knows that there's something and she's the big sister so she has to."

"There's something?"

"Pretend you didn't hear that-I have a concussion you know."

"Fine-" smiles Dawn as she takes Faith's hand in hers.

Down the hall in Buffy's room Willow and Kennedy are snuggled together in an oversized chair by the window. Kennedy is tracing circles on the witch's back as she holds her. She presses a kiss to the side of her head and Willow pulls up slightly and turns so their eyes meet. "Kennedy," she starts.

"I know. I just-the hospital and Faith-I'm a little wigged."

"Yeah-" she agrees. "Me too-" she presses a kiss to Kennedy's forehead. "It could have been you."

"Three days Willow-a lot can happen in three days," she says her voice trembling. "I don't know what I'd do if I lost you." Her tears finally fall.

"Hey-" she wipes them away, "I'm not going anywhere."

"Promise?"

"Promise," she presses her lips to Kennedy's in a chaste kiss. They stay that way for a few seconds. Then the redhead slowly begins to move her lips against her young Slayer's. Kennedy soon follows her lead as their lips move together. Willow finally breaks the kiss both needing to breathe and they lean their foreheads together. "Better?"

Kennedy nods.

"Can I stay?"

"Sweetie-"

"I'll be good-I swear, I just need to hold you."

"Okay," she says softly and they get up and move to the bed. As they spoon together, Willow safely in her arms, the door flies open and they move to opposite sides of the bed. "We weren't" starts Willow as she sees Buffy.

"Kennedy to your room please-" says the Slayer and the younger one kisses her redhead and leaves without an argument.

"Buffy we weren't-" starts the redhead.

"You'll thank me later Willow." She turns and leaves. The witch leaves right behind her and sneaks down the hallway to Kennedy's door. She opens it, smiles at her Slayer and crawls into bed beside her, wrapping her in her arms. The door opens again and Buffy is there- "Willow-" the redhead growls in frustration. She gets out of the bed and follows Buffy out the door. "I think you should stay with me, in Faith's room."

"Fine," says the redhead. They walk in silence down the hallway and into the room. As Faith's bed comes into view Buffy freezes and Willow laughs. "Way to go Dawnie."

"Dawn!" Buffy exclaims.

"Shhh-" she cautions her sister as she spoons back around the sleeping Slayer. "You'll wake her up."

Buffy stands again unable to speak. Willow just smiles.

Chapter 9

"Sleep-I won't be long." Faith pulls her back into her and holds her.

"Thought you might want breakfast."

"Not hungry-" says the Slayer. Dawn looks at her in disbelief. "Okay-I am but we should talk first."

She looks toward Buffy and Faith sees her for the first time. "Food then talk-" says the teenager. Faith lets her slip out of bed and out the door. As the door closes Buffy's eyes open.

"Morning B-"

"Faith-" she pauses, "How are you feeling?"

"5x5-"

"Good, so we can talk?"

"I feel a sudden headache-" she says with a smile.

Buffy sits on the foot of the bed and they sit cross-legged facing each other. "You like my sister?"

"Yeah-are you freaked?"

"A little-but she could do worse."

Faith smiles, "Does that mean you're okay with it?"

"Surprisingly, I think so. With some rules."

"Figured-" she rolls her eyes. Buffy swats at her arm.

Down the hall Willow is also waking up. She smiles as she feels Kennedy's arms protectively around her waist. She turns in her arms and kisses her forehead softly. As her Slayer's eyes open she smiles, "Morning."

"Morning," says Kennedy. She leans in and kisses her chastely. "Just three days."

"Been thinking about your birthday-"

"What about it?"

"Maybe a party, with a cake-"

"You gonna jump out of it?" She wiggles her eyebrows suggestively.

"Hadn't planned on it-" blushes the redhead as she leans in to kiss her lips.

"Then no cake," she pouts.

"What do you want?"

"You," she says without hesitation.

"That's a given-" smiles the redhead.

"Yeah?"

"Yeah-" she rolls the girl under her and Kennedy's hands settle on her back. Willow looks into her eyes and leans down to kiss her. Lips begin to open and close against lips. The witch's hands begin to roam just as there is a knock on the door. She drops her hands to the bed and her head to Kennedy's chest. "If that's Buffy-I might just hurt her."

"Like you could-" smiles Kennedy.

"I so could-frustration is a power surge." She moves off of her young Slayer and over to the door to find Dawn standing there. "Dawnie-something wrong?"

"She likes me-" smiles the teenager and Willow smiles too.

"How could she not?" She hugs the teenager.

Later that day Faith and Dawn are sitting at the pool talking. "Buffy didn't freak?"

"Freak? No. Set enough rules to run a small country? Yes."

Dawn rolls her eyes, "I'm sorry-"

"Hey-no-I knew that going in."

"So we're going in?" She smiles suggestively, then blushes.

"No-" Faith's eyes go wide. She smiles and points a finger, "Stop being-" she pauses. "Damn-"

"What'd I do-I didn't mean-" she looks unsure.

Faith lowers her finger and takes Dawn's hand, "Listen, the talk-it's cool-actually it's hot-" she smiles and so does the younger Summers. "And when we're alone-okay-but if we're were someone else could hear-"

"And it got back to Buffy she'd go-"

"Crazy-" finishes Faith. "And I couldn't blame her-if you were my little sister-" their eyes meet.

"I'm not twelve-"

"No-but you're not eighteen."

"Closer to eighteen then you are-" she smirks.

"Smart ass-always knew it was a Summers thing."

Dawn smiles, "How old are you?"

"Does it matter?"

"Not to me-" she shakes her head.

"Let's just say not as old as they think and leave it at that."

"Cool-so, now what?"

"Now-" Faith takes a deep breath and lets it out slowly. "I need to talk to Robin." Dawn makes a face and looks down. "Hey-" she raises her face with her hand. "Not your fault."

"Feels like it-" she says softly.

Faith stands, "Pizza later?"

"It's a date," she smiles.

"Guess it is." She kisses her cheek and walks away.

Faith knocks on Robin's door and he opens it, "Hey-got a minute?" Asks the once dark Slayer.

"Sure," he steps aside and she walks in. He closes the door and she leans against it. "Get you a drink?"

"Nah-but thanks."

"Expected you sooner," he says as he sits down in the oversized chair.

"We need to talk," says Faith as she stands unmoving.

"Know what you're gonna say," Robin smiles sadly. "I was at the hospital too-saw the way she looked at you."

"I didn't plan-" she starts.

"Things happen," he stands at walks toward her, she stands too. "I get that." He hesitates and then goes on, "She's a good kid-"

"Kid?" Faith looks unsure. "You saying-" she stops. "You think I'm making a mistake?"

"No-all I'm saying is give it an honest try-don't be looking for a reason to bail."

"Not gonna happen-" she says.

"Good to know-" he smiles as his steps forward to hug her. She hugs him back. "If you change your mind, Giles will know where I am."

"You're leaving?"

"Gonna help set up the new council."

"When were you gonna tell me?"

"Yesterday-but with the head trauma and all-" he smiles.

"So-you'll be careful?" He nods. "Later huh?"

"Yeah." She steps back. "I'll talk to you before I go-maybe you can give me a ride to the airport?"

"Absolutely," she opens the door and leaves. Robin takes two tickets from his pocket and lays them on the table, his eyes sad.

Down the hallway Kennedy waits on Willow's bed as the redhead showers. She smiles as she hears the water stop. "Want some help drying off?" She asks.

"Love some help," she starts to stand and then hears the giggle, "Know anyone who's old enough?"

"Oh-that's it Red," she stands up and goes to the door opening it without hesitation. Willow wraps the towel around herself surprised. "Want me to show you who's old enough?"

She begins to undo the towel as she hears Buffy open the door. "Willow are you here?"

"Damn-" curses the redhead. She whispers, "Get in the shower," her eyes meet Kennedy's.

"No way," she whispers back. "We weren't doing anything wrong." Willow points to the shower her reserve face intact and the young Slayer climbs in and pulls the curtain closed.

Willow walks into the room and sees the blonde Slayer, "What did you need Buff?"

"Want to get lunch?"

"Actually got plans with Kennedy," she says with a nervous smile as she moves around and gets her clothes.

"Where is Kennedy?"

"Ah-showering-her room showering."

"I should shower too," before Willow can protest she goes into the bathroom and sticks her hand in turning the shower on.

"Damn-" comes Kennedy's voice as the water hits and Buffy laughs. Willow runs into the room as well in time to see a drenched young Slayer jump from the shower.

"How'd you know?"

Buffy stops laughing for a brief moment, "One, Willow my bestest friend- you're a terrible liar and two, Slayer hearing."

"Damn-I always forget about that!" Again the blonde laughs.

"This is so not funny," pouts Kennedy as she drips on the floor.

Willow giggles, "It kinda is."

Kennedy mock glares at her. "I'm sorry baby," she kisses her lips softly.

"Hey-" Buffy looks unsure. "None of that."

"Why are you worried about us when your sister's out on her first date with Faith?"

Buffy pales, "Date?" Kennedy nods and smiles, happy to rattle the blonde. Buffy runs out the door.

Kennedy smiles, "Now where were we?"

"Here I think," she kisses her Slayer. Buffy runs back in and pulls Kennedy out of the room with her. Willow watches shocked.

Faith and Dawn are sitting at the pizza place eating and talking when Buffy walks in still dragging a wet Kennedy. Faith laughs and so does Dawn as they sit next to them. "Junior-what happened to you?" The young Slayer just glares at the blonde. She shakes her head and smiles at Dawn. She looks back at the oldest Slayer. "So B- you guys want pizza?"

"Love pizza," she helps herself to a big slice as Faith waves for the waitress.

"We're gonna need three more of these," says the once dark Slayer. The waitress leaves and Dawn joins hands with Faith. Kennedy smirks at Buffy.

The next day Buffy, Willow, Xander, Faith, Kennedy and Dawn are getting ready to go play miniature golf. "Do I really have to do this?" Complains Faith.

"It's fun," assures Dawn.

"Okay," she gives in. Buffy rolls her eyes. Kennedy smiles at Willow and takes her hand.

"We set?" Asks Xander as they pile into the van. Buffy moves everyone around and they grumble. Willow sits in front with Xander, Buffy and Dawn sit in the next seats and Faith and Kennedy share the back one. "Can we go now?" He looks at the blonde.

"Go-there's fun to be had."

"Fun if we tied you to the top of the van," mumbles Willow.

"We can do that Red," smiles Kennedy.

"In your dreams," smirks Buffy.

Faith smiles, "Only one dreaming is you B-"

Buffy looks unsure. "Don't worry Buff-I won't let them hurt you."

"How will you stop us exactly?" Asks Dawn with a raised eyebrow.

He giggles uncomfortably, "You're on your own-sorry Buffy." He smiles.

A few hours later after actual fun at the mini golf course the six are sitting at a table drinking sodas. Faith and Dawn are holding hands as are Willow and Kennedy. Xander looks at the blonde, "That's legal?" He asks with a smile.

"In most states," smiles the blonde.

"What's next on our schedule of fun?" Asks Faith.

"We could go to a movie," says Kennedy.

"Can't talk at the movie," replies Dawn.

"Not planning on talking," Kennedy raises an eyebrow.

"No movie-" states Buffy.

"There's the whole tie B-to the top of the van plan-" she smiles. She and Kennedy stand and move toward the oldest Slayer. She stands too. "Just don't fight and we won't hurt you." Dawn smiles at the rogue Slayer.

"Guys," starts Buffy. She squeals as the two Slayers grab her. She struggles but gets away and runs across the field. Dawn, Xander, and Willow watch them and smile.

"Good to see they get along so well," quips Xander.

Willow smiles, "They do and it is good," she watches Kennedy as Buffy flips her to the ground. "Careful baby."

"Don't worry Will-" she yells.

About forty-five minutes later three tired Slayers return to the table. They sit back in their chairs. "Ready for dinner now?" asks Xander.

"Sounds yummy," smiles the blonde.

"I could eat," states Kennedy and Willow rolls her eyes.

They look to Faith, "My second favorite thing after a good fight," she smirks. "I'm in." Everyone at the table blushes but her. She looks at Dawn unsure, "What'd I say?"

"Let's just go," she says as she stands and takes the older Slayer's hand. "I'll explain later."

"Like hell you will," says Buffy. She follows them to the van and sits between them.

As the fun night ends the friends start back to their separate rooms, Buffy looks back at the couples, "Everyone in their own beds."

"Ruin my plans," whines Xander.

"What plans?" Asks Buffy with a raised eyebrow.

"Not telling," he smirks and starts toward his room.

"Hey-Xan-wait," she starts after him.

"Do we thank Xander for the distraction and make out for the five minutes she's not thinking about us-" starts Willow.

Faith finishes, "Or do we drag her ass back to her room and tell her rules are rules?"

"The last one," say Kennedy and Dawn in unison as they start down the hall. Willow and Faith nod and follow. They catch the blonde Slayer just feet from Xander's door and they drag her back down the hallway.

"Guys, wait I need to talk to him."

"Sorry B-" says Faith.

"You said it yourself," Dawn smiles. "Everyone to their own room."

She stops protesting and goes the rest of the way willingly, though the pout never leaves her face. The others smile in triumph!

Chapter 10

Faith wiggles her eyebrows suggestively and Willow simply rolls her eyes at her friends. "Not sure what I'm doing."

Faith chuckles, "I know what I'd be doing," she smiles, "The very day, I'd have her-"

Willow looks shocked and cuts the woman off as she sees Buffy's expression, "She doesn't want a cake."

"Just the icing would be enough-" Willow kicks her discretely. "Ouch-Red," she looks at her unsure and for the first time sees Buffy's face. "B-ah-I was just kidding."

"Unhuh-right-" says the blonde Slayer her eyes never leaving the once rogue one in front of her.

Willow again tries to get them to move on, "Any ideas?"

"Breakfast in bed-"

The redhead smiles, "Yeah-okay I could start there-"

"Or a picnic lunch in the park," smiles Buffy on a little roll.

"Or Red you could just have breakfast, lunch, and dinner in bed," Faith smirks.

Buffy glares at the Slayer, "Alright Already-I'm about to reconsider the whole dating my sister thing." Faith pales, worry filling her eyes. "Kidding," smiles Buffy. Faith relaxes and smiles. "Not!" finishes the blonde. Faith's smiles fades.

A few tense minutes later Kennedy and Dawn walk in and sit on the arms of their girl's chair. Hands link together as Kennedy kisses Willow softly. "Whatcha doing?"

"Just hanging with the gang," smiles the witch.

"Wanna go for a walk?" Asks the young Slayer.

"Sure-" she stands and her Slayer stands as well.

Buffy looks at them with a smile- "Need a chaperon?"

"No-o-" blushes the redhead. "Go away."

Willow and Kennedy leave with an arm around the other's waist.

Dawn looks down at Faith and feels a weird tension, "Something wrong?"

"Nothing's wrong," assures Faith as she looks from Dawn to Buffy. "Right B?"

"Just talking about birthdays," smiles the Slayers.

"Did you get her to tell you when hers is?" Asks Dawn.

"Didn't try-I'm sure Giles can find out."

"Thanks B-" Faith looks not pleased.

Dawn presses a kiss to her cheek, "I won't ask him, you'll tell me-"

"Maybe someday," concedes the older Slayer.

"At least tell me how old you are?" pouts Dawn.

"You really want to know?" Asks Faith.

"Yes-" says the Summers sisters in unison.

"Too bad-" she laughs. She stands and holds out her hand to Dawn. "Let's go to the game room."

"Why should I go with you-you're a meanie."

"I'll buy you ice cream after," smiles the once rogue Slayer.

"Deal-" Dawn takes her hand and stands.

"Game room B?"

"Nah-I'll give you some space for the date thing."

"See ya-" smiles Faith and they leave hand-in-hand.

Buffy is still sitting there alone when Xander gets off the elevator, "There you are," he smiles.

"Her I am," says the oldest Slayer. "Was I lost?" She smiles at the man.

"Just misplaced-what do you say to lunch?"

"Sounds like a plan," she stands and they leave together.

The witch and her Slayer are walking in the park hand-in-hand. "You want a surprise party?"

"How can it be a surprise if you ask me?" Kennedy smiles and pulls her into a hug.

"I just want it to be special," pouts the redhead.

Kennedy kisses her lips chastely, "Will you be there?"

"Count on it-" smiles her witch.

"Then it'll be more than special-It'll be the best." She kisses her again but it isn't chaste. Lips move against lips as they each get momentarily lost in the other. They finally break for air and Willow giggles, "What?"

"Just-that was nice," says the redhead.

"Nice-so you giggled? Lost me Red."

"No Buffy-I kinda expected her to jump between us from out of nowhere."

Kennedy looks around before kissing her again, "Think we're safe-" she looks at her watch. "And in twelve hours and twenty-seven minutes it'll be official."

"So you think Dick Clark's feeling up to a little after New Years count down?" Smiles the redhead.

"Think I want it to be a little more private."

"How private?" Asks Willow as she bites her bottom lip and smiles.

"You and me-okay?" Says Kennedy.

"I think we can handle it." She leans in and they kiss again.

"Twelve hours and twenty-six minutes." Her young Slayer smiles.

Faith and Dawn are at the game room and it's a bit crowded. They look around and Dawn spots the Slayer's favorite game open. They go that way hand-in-hand. "You first," smiles the Slayer as she puts a quarter in the slot.

"I don't know how-" starts Dawn.

"No worries," she smiles. "I'll teach you."

Their eyes meet and Dawn smiles nervously. "Yeah?"

"Come on," she puts her hands on the teenager's hips and moves her in front of the game. "It's easy." Dawn nods, her voice gone and with nervous hands, picks up the gun. "You just need to get your stance right." She puts her foot between Dawn's feet and the young Summers spreads them shoulder width apart.

"Good?" She asks looking over her shoulder.

Faith nods, "Now just aim and squeeze the trigger." She helps Dawn get her arms just right-Faith's hands then slide back to her shoulders and down to her waist before the Slayer realizes. Dawn takes a shaky breath and bites her lip as Faith moves her hands away a little flushed. The dark Slayer licks her lips. "You ready?"

"I-maybe."

"Try it," Faith smiles encouragingly. Dawn shots the first bad guy and smiles. "See, not so hard." She kisses her lips softly and for just a second both forget the game. Faith pulls back and cracks her neck. "Finish it." She steps away and watches the girl play.

Xander and Buffy are sitting at the restaurant, their lunch finished. They are talking. "How are you doing?" She asks her friend and he smiles a sad smile.

"Better," is his one word answer.

"Really?" Her concern obvious.

"Most days," he nods.

"You know you can talk to me right-whenever."

He takes her hand in his, "Yeah." They are quiet for a minute then he asks, "How are you doing with the whole Dawn/Faith thing?"

She smiles using his words, "Better-most days."

"And the other days?" He asks and she rolls her eyes. "The age thing?"

"Not so much-mostly the killed a guy-been in jail thing."

"There's that-true, but she's all repenty." He sounds strangely like Willow all of a sudden and she smiles.

"Yeah-and Mom really liked her."

"Ready for dessert?" He asks changing the subject not so subtly.

She raises her eyebrows playfully, "What have you got in mind?"

"Nothing like that-" he blushes.

"While we're on the subject-just whose room were you going to the other night?"

"No room-just being a little evil." She swats at him playfully. "What you can tease them but I can't tease you?" He smiles.

She smiles back, "Anytime.-Now let's see what they have that's yummy." She picks up the dessert menu.

Faith's room later, she and Dawn are back from the game room and are going to watch a movie. "We should tell B-" says the older Slayer.

Dawn rolls her eyes, "We're just watching a movie."

"I know but-"

"Call her if-" before the teenager can finish Faith has the phone in her hand dialing.

"Hey B-"

"Faith is something wrong?"

"No-no-just me and Dawn are gonna watch a movie in my room."

"Do I have to remind you of the rules?"

"No-got'em. So later?"

"Bye-" the line goes dead and Faith puts the phone down.

"See, I told you she'd be okay with it." She puts her arms around the Slayer's waist. "What do you want to watch?"

"You find something," she kisses her cheek and backs away.

"Where are you going now?"

"Popcorn-can't have a movie without popcorn." She disappears out the door.

A few minutes later Dawn is sitting on the bed flipping channels and waiting. Her eyes get big as she watches the screen. Faith walks in and sees it and nearly drops the food. "Change it!"

"How do they-" her words trail away as she twists her head to a weird angle. Faith puts down the popcorn and sodas. She moves closer and grabs for the remote. Dawn moves away just a little, "Don't-" the Slayer ends up off balance and on the bed straddling the younger Summers. Dawn smiles up at her, their eyes lock. "Hi-" her arms go around the older woman as she starts to move. "Stay."

"Dawnie-I-" the teenager kisses her softly and Faith's eyes close. She pulls out of the kiss and with her breathing rushed and backs away. "We can't-" Dawn takes her hand.

"Why?" Asks the teenager her eyes sad, "You don't want?"

"I want-" admits the Slayer.

"I don't understand," says Dawn. "What's wrong?"

"Nothing-" she stops. "I don't want to mess this up so, we're doing it the right way."

"The right way?"

"Yeah-slow," she kisses the girl chastely. "Okay?"

"But we can sit here right?"

Faith relaxes and leans against the headboard, "Yeah-" Dawn gets the snacks and sits with her back against the Slayer. Faith wraps her arms around the teenager. They look to the television and realize the movie is still playing. Faith switches the channel. "What do you want to watch?"

Dawn smiles, "Put it back where it was."

"Think not," she smiles. "Cartoons?"

"Cartoons?" She glares at the Slayer.

"They're my favorite ask anyone."

"I remember-" Dawn smiles and Faith puts it on the cartoon channel. "This is nice."

"See-don't need anything else." She smiles contentedly.

Later Faith opens her eyes to find herself spooned around Dawn. She smiles and presses a kiss to the back of the teenager's head. She sits up slightly, careful not to wake the girl and watches her sleep. Faith touches the younger girl's cheek with her fingers and Dawn's eyes flutter, then open. "I fell asleep?"

"It's okay," smiles the Slayer.

"Sorry-why didn't you wake me?"

"Liked watching you sleep-and waking up next to you," she can't help but smile. "You're beautiful, " she cups her cheek. Dawn blushes and leans in to kiss the Slayer softly. "Shouldn't-"

"Should," argues Dawn. She kisses her again but this time her lips move against Faith's. The Slayer finally gives in and her movement matches Dawn's. The teenager finally pulls away, air an issue. She smiles and Faith smiles too. Dawn leans in again and the Slayer doesn't hesitate as lips move against lips for the second time. A knock at the door causes Faith to groan and Dawn mutters a breathless, "Go away."

"Who is it?" Manages Faith.

"Me-" comes Buffy's voice.

Faith looks panicked, "Shit." The Slayer slides away from Dawn, but she stops her for a quick kiss. "She's gonna kill me," she whispers as they break apart.

"Won't let her," smiles Dawn as the Slayer walks to the door and she follows.

As it opens Buffy asks, "Forget about the pool?" Faith looks at her blankly, "Swimming with the gang?"

"Actually," Dawn says as she laces fingers with the once rogue Slayer, "We fell asleep."

Buffy rolls her eyes, "Think I'm gonna buy that-you were kissing," she smiles at Faith's nervousness.

"No-" starts the other Slayer, "Well yeah okay-but before the kissing we crashed."

"You got fifteen minutes-then I'll be back."

"That's cool," says Faith and Buffy leaves closing the door behind her. Faith starts across the room but Dawn's hand in hers stops her. "You heard B-"

Before she can protest farther Dawn's lips meet hers.

Later at the pool Kennedy, Willow, Buffy, Xander and five other new Slayers play in the pool as Faith and Dawn join them. "It's about time," teases Xander.

"Yeah-yeah-" gripes Dawn as she takes off the cover up. Faith looks her up and down and before she kisses her Buffy clears her throat. Faith backs away. "Faith."

The Slayer slips off her t-shirt and grabs Dawn's hand. She whispers something in the younger girl's ear and with smiles they both jump in splashing the oldest Slayer.

"Hey!" Whines Buffy. Faith and Dawn laugh and swim away. The laughing stops as she chases them. The noise gets louder as a game off tag ensues.

Soon, the dunking starts-Kennedy grabs the blonde Slayer while her attention is on Faith and her sister, and holds her under water. As the blonde surfaces the younger Slayer laughs. "That's for all the-" before she can finish Buffy is swimming for her.

"Swim baby," advises Willow and Kennedy does as she is told. Faith decides to help out her girl's sister though after some thought changes sides. "Wise choice," smiles the redhead as Faith looks her way.

Finally the three call a truce and decide to initiate the new Slayers. The chase is on again. Willow, Xander and Dawn cautiously work their way toward the edge of the pool but Buffy spots them. Dawn looks at the others unsure and again Willow yells, "Swim!" They try to escape but are caught by the Slayers. They dunk them one by one. Willow glares at her Slayer. "You're so gonna pay for that."

"But I love you baby," Kennedy says as she pouts.

"So not gonna work."

"Come on Junior, we have others to torture."

Kennedy kisses Willow her lips moving against the redhead's and the witch responds. "I'm sorry," she says as she swims off.

"Unhuh-" smiles the redhead. "Still gonna get you," she mumbles. Xander and Dawn smile knowing the young Slayer has made a terrible error in judgment.

Finally dry, Willow, Xander and Dawn sit under the umbrella at a table. Dawn stands as Faith is getting out of the water and moves to her towel. She takes Faith's hand. "Put lotion on my back?"

Faith smiles, "Sure Dawnie." The Slayer sees Willow smile and can't resist the opportunity to make her blush. "You wanna be next Red?"

Kennedy who is now standing beside her witch answers, "I think not-" Willow looks at her with a raised eyebrow, "What?"

"Between the two of us, who's the boss of me?" Asks the redhead.

"You but-"

Faith laughs and Kennedy glares at her. "I'm so gonna kick your ass again."

"When was the first time Junior?"

"The kick to the head-"

"That-you got lucky. Won't happen again."

"Let's see," Willow takes her hand. She turns to her girl to see her eyes. "Fine-I'm sorry-" she apologizes to Faith. She turns back to her witch, ready to pout until soft lips touch hers. "That's nice." She says as they break apart.

"Lots better then fussing." Kennedy nods and they kiss again.

"Whipped," smirks Faith. Kennedy grabs her and drops her in the pool. They all laugh but then stop as they see Faith's anger. "You're dead."

Kennedy stands frozen until she sees the Slayer smile. Kennedy smirks. "Can't catch me." She sprints around the pool and Faith jumps out to run after her. Xander smiles as he watches the half dressed girls chase each other.

Willow smacks him on the arm when she sees his smile, "What!" He asks innocently.

"That's my underage girlfriend you're making goofy eyes at."

"What can I say, one eye-sometimes you gotta look longer." Dawn giggles and finally Willow joins in.

Giles joins them, "How old are those two?"

"Not sure-" smiles Buffy as she joins them as well.

"Sometimes I think about twelve." They all smile.

Dawn looks up at the others, "Anybody know how old Faith actually is?"

Willow appears to be thinking like it might be stored somewhere in her memory, "Our age maybe-22 or 23."

"Or younger-" says Xander.

"Or older," smiles Buffy.

"Just ask her," says Giles.

Dawn whines, "She won't tell me."

"Leave it to me," smiles the redhead.

The gang is still together, this time eating pizza at their favorite pizza joint. They are eating and talking and remarkably the noise isn't too bad. Kennedy looks at her watch. "The big 1-8 in how many hours K?" Asks Faith.

"Five hours and eight minutes," smiles the young Slayer as she exchanges a glance with her redhead. She then pouts though as they tease her about her age. "It's so not fair."

"What brat?" Asks Faith again.

"Everyone knows when my birthday is and I don't know anyone's.-Well except Willow's."

"You know mine how-who told?" Kennedy looks toward Dawn. "Should have guessed."

Xander smiles, "Well Buffy's is Oct.3-"

"Hey-" shines the blonde Slayer. "Fine Xander's is-"

"April 5th, and presents are more then welcome." The man smiles.

Willow decides turnabout is fair play, "Dawnie's is November-"

"No-" starts the teen.

"17th" finishes the redhead.

Faith smiles, "Legal in less then five months." Dawn nods, "That's cool."

"Now you gotta tell me yours," pouts the teenager.

"You really want to know?" Dawn nods. "Five hours and four minutes."

"Tomorrow and you didn't tell me?"

Faith shrugs, "Birthdays are no big deal-" she tries.

Dawn is now babbling in classic Willow style. "We have to have a party with cake and balloons-and-"

"Oh-and the cute little hats," adds Buffy with a smile.

"D-no party." Dawn pouts. "I don't need a party."

"But I want-"

Faith surrenders and rolls her eyes, "Fine-but only if Junior gets one too.

Kennedy looks around the table at the people. Willow smiles. "Fine-" mutters the young Slayer. "But we're even for the whole dunking thing," her eyes meet Willow's and she kisses her softly.

The redhead whispers, "Not by a long shot, sweetie."

Dawn holds Faith's hand, "How old will you be?"

Faith looks down at the table, "Let's just say I can throw away my fake ID."

Dawn smiles, "You have a fake ID?"

"You'll be twenty-one?" Asks Willow.

Buffy looks unsure, "You're just twenty?"

"Yeah-" she nods.

Buffy starts again, "That means you were-"

Faith stops her, "Bygones and all that shit B-remember?" Faith nudges her with her shoulder. "Forget it-I have."

Buffy looks down, "Faith-"

"Serious-Buffy, it's good-" she looks at Dawn. The teenager leans in and kisses her lips softly.

Willow tries to break the tension, "So-we got a party to plan-" Faith and Kennedy groan as the others talk excitedly, even Buffy.

Go Back To Part 1(Chapters 1-5)

Go On To Part 3(Chapters 11-15)

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