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Part 1
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Faith was sitting in the Hyperion lobby reading the latest edition of her favourite magazine. When she had been released from jail about six weeks ago Angel offered her a place to stay and a job. She took it and everyone had settled into a truce that was becoming easier each day. She looked up at Cordelia and Wesley who were arguing by the front counter about something. Faith found this wasn't a new thing and ignored them. Angel was doing something that seemed boring, so she had left him to it.

The front door opened and in walked Detective Kate Lockley.

"Hey, DK," Faith called out. The blonde nodded in response but kept walking towards the argument that was still in full swing. Brave woman, Faith thought. But since she'd been released, she had been learning just how brave Kate was. Getting most of Kate's back-story from Cordelia and Angel, she knew about Kate's tragic introduction to the demon world. She and Kate had talked a couple of times about life after jail and the woman genuinely seemed to care about her progress. But right now Kate was standing between Cordelia and Wesley having broken up the argument. Faith put the magazine down and strolled over to the discussion.

"I don't think so, Kate," Cordelia was saying shaking her head violently. "There's is no way I'm doing that."

"I'll do it," Faith volunteered.

"You don't even know what I asked." Kate turned to the reformed killer.

"Doesn't matter, I'm busting for some action," Faith said excitedly. Hopefully whatever it was she would get to spend some time with the sexy woman.

Kate studied the girl. True, Faith was probably the best pick for what she wanted, but could she trust her? "I need you for an undercover assignment."

"Undercover? Don't you have cops for that?" Faith asked puzzled.

"This is something I don't really want a reputation for," Kate said a little awkwardly.

"So give me the info."

"Uh, can we talk somewhere?" Kate glanced to Cordelia and Wesley who were looking at her with interest.

"Sure, it's not like this place doesn't have hundreds of rooms." Faith led her up the stairs to the room she had taken as her own on the first floor. Angel had allowed her to decorate it how she wanted, so out went the 50's look in with a modest black and white colouring. She offered Kate a lounge chair and sat down on a sofa she'd found around the hotel.

"So what can I do for you, DK?" Faith looked over at the tense features of the blonde.

Kate smiled slightly at the nickname Faith had bestowed upon her. "This is hard to explain," she started and hoped Faith wouldn't laugh at her when she told her what she needed.

"So try," Faith softened her voice.

"I need to go undercover. We have a perp who is frequenting a club, preying on vulnerable women."

"And again I ask why not go through the force." Faith couldn't work out why Kate was even talking to her about this. The cop was not above going outside the department, but she normally didn't do it unless it was necessary.

"I have a feeling the perp is not human."

"Yeah?" Faith asked her eyes lighting up. Clubbing and demon hunting at the same time sounded wicked cool.

"Coroner's reports of the three victims I know of, have claw marks on the arms. Other than that it looks normal."

"So why didn't Cordelia want the job, and why aren't you asking Angel?"

"Cordelia apparently doesn't want to go in without Angel and Angel can't come," Kate answered evenly.

"Why not?"

Kate took a deep breath before answering. "Because all the victims were last seen at a place called Aphrodite's Lounge. A lesbian club."

"Ah." Faith smirked. "So you want to go undercover at this joint. Why not go solo? You have a lot more chance of getting picked up by this demon."

Kate looked away for a moment before forcing her eyes back on Faith's smirk. "I'm not aiming to get picked up, all I want to do is observe."

"Still, wouldn't it be easier solo, no distractions?" Faith was up for this, but she was seeing what the detective thought about the assignment.

"Actually it might be more of a distraction. If everyone thought I was with someone, I would be free to investigate without being interrupted."

"So are you asking me to be your date?" Faith could see Kate becoming increasingly uncomfortable, though she was hiding it well.

"We go together, stick together, plus you have more experience in fighting demons. Think of it like backup." Kate thought she handled that well.

"So what's this place like?" Faith sat back in her chair, images of her and Kate in the club already going through her head.

"Normal club, no B&D, no kink. Good security and apart from this case it has never been in trouble. I've spoken to the owners and they are anxious for the killer to be stopped. They've given me access to security footage but nothing has been helpful. I've checked them out and they are clean. But I never expected them to be anything but that. This killer is just using the club as a meeting point." Kate handed a folder over to Faith. "Have a read of that."

Faith took the folder and went through the notes Kate had made. Her profile concluded that a female human or demon was picking up young girls and killing them for no discernible motive. There was no sexual abuse or other injuries apart from those used to kill. The only thing the victims had in common was their sexuality and age.

"What do you think?" Kate asked as Faith handed her the folder.

"Let's kick some ass." Faith gave her a bright smile.

"Good," Kate let out a breath. "I'd like to start tonight."

"Sure." She nodded in agreement.

"I would appreciate it if you didn't say anything to anyone." Kate fiddled with the corner of the folder.

"Of course." Faith studied Kate's behaviour. "You've never been to a gay club before have you?"

"No." Kate looked up into the piecing dark eyes.

"No need to worry, I have."

"I was hoping that was the case," Kate said gratefully.

"It's like you said, it's a normal club except there's no men and everyone assumes you're gay."

"But you're not?" Angel, Wesley and Cordelia had filled in Kate on Faith's history, including her checkered history with men.

"No, why pin myself down to one gender? They are both good." Faith watched Kate's face for any sign of disgust. There was none. "Did you even tell Cordy that it was for a gay club?"

"Didn't get that far," Kate said in a relieved voice.

"Why not ask me first?"

"I don't know you as well as the others," Kate lied.

"Look, if we're doing this you have to trust me." Faith called her out when she saw Kate's eye look away for a brief moment. "Don't lie to me like that."

"Sorry." Kate steeled herself not to look down. "You're right."

"You trust me, I'll trust you. Otherwise this is not going to work." Faith's respect for Kate went up because she didn't back down.

"Okay, but this is my investigation. You follow my orders."

"Since my prison days I'm good at following orders," Faith said standing.

"Then we should get along." Kate followed Faith as they went back down to the lobby.

"I'll pick you up at eight. We'll go over my plan and then onto the club." Kate noticed Cordelia and Wesley were ignoring each other now.

"See you then." Faith smiled as Kate made her way to the door. "Oh and DK…dress appropriately." She watched the blonde walk out and then turned back to be confronted by questions from her co-workers. She told them she and Kate were going out looking for a demon and that everything was all good. Wesley was satisfied but Cordelia gave her a knowing look. Faith waved her off and went to pick out her clothes for the night. She wanted to make the detective give her more than a casual look and in a good way too.

********************

Faith was already waiting when Kate pulled up. She got in and looked over at the cop.

"Nice threads," Faith said as she took in the black pants, tan plunging top and black jacket the blonde was wearing.

"Appropriate?" Kate knew the girl would be wearing something more provocative. And the top couldn't be any more, showing off the bottom of her stomach and a generous amount of cleavage. Leather pants and jacket finished off the outfit. Kate guessed that Faith was taking too much pleasure in this, she just hoped the girl wouldn't be distracted.

"Sure." Faith saw Kate's eyes nearly pop when they reached her breasts. Score one for Faith. Faith would have liked to see more cleavage on the detective, but if this was more than one night's work, she might have time to work on it. On the way there, Kate briefed Faith on the plan and what to do in certain situations. First stop was to a diner because Kate hadn't eaten yet. While they ate, Kate went over more details and Faith explained how she thought it was better if she handled the majority of the fights if it came to that. They arrived at the club confident in the other's ability to do their job.

There was a small queue lined up on the sidewalk. Kate looked around at the crowd. Several women were holding hands or had their arms around each other. She peeked at Faith. The girl was smirking as she watched something. Kate turned to where she was looking and found a couple that were already getting into the spirit of the night. She tore her eyes away from the heavy kissing session and took another sweep of the area with her eyes. Nothing out of the ordinary, well she thought to herself, there's nothing out of the ordinary about me going to a gay club, no not at all.

She felt Faith grab her hand and pull her along to the door. Kate had told the owners that she and a co-worker were going to be there, so the bouncers let them in without a problem. They were greeted to a steady thumping of dance music as they made their way in. To the right was a bar that covered half the wall, the left contained a row of booths and a few tables, while the most crowded part of the room was the dance floor where a good crowd was already bumping and grinding to the music.

Faith's warm hand still encased hers as she allowed the girl to pull her to the bar. This was Faith's territory and until she got a feel for the place she was content for the girl to take the lead. They sat down on a couple of empty stools. A bartender asked for an order but before Kate could answer Faith leaned forward.

"I'll have Sex on the Beach," Faith asked looking straight at Kate with a seductive look on her face. "What about you, Kate? A Slow Comfortable Screw is more your speed, don't you think." Her voice turned husky.

"A Vampire, thank you," Kate said looking at the bartender and trying to ignore Faith's sensual gaze directed solely at her. She was pulling out her money when Faith bumped into her legs. Glaring up at an apologetic face she saw Faith's thumb pointed to someone behind her. Paying the bartender, she noticed that Faith hadn't moved away. This was going to be a long night, she thought to herself.

"You know I'm not 21," Faith leaned over and breathed in Kate's ear. Kate smiled and placed a finger on her lips. It was supposed to be undercover anyway and they weren't there to drink.

"We're supposed to be checking the place out, not having fun." She found herself having to look into the dark eyes as Faith was forced to stand when the person behind her pinched her stood. She had a feeling the Slayer didn't mind at all.

Faith took a sip of her drink and grinned. "There's no reason why we can't have a good time as well." Kate gave her a 'you wish' look then tore her eyes away to scan the room. The atmosphere was one of electric excitement coupled with a friendly feeling. The owners had said they tried to keep out the bad seeds and have a non-threatening place for people to party. It seemed to have worked.

"Check that out," Faith's excited voice again breathed in her ear as she pointed out over to a table. Kate quickly swivelled, hoping Faith had found some interesting, instead she found two women intertwined and probably having a good grope in places Kate didn't want to think about. She turned back to Faith, who had a shit-eating grin on her face.

"When you have something more worthy than two women kissing, let me know," Kate said as Faith leaned down again.

"Well, I didn't know if you've ever seen that before." Faith moved closer to her and she could feel Faith's body barely touching hers.

"I'm not some pure virgin, Faith," Kate said ticked off.

"Hey, doesn't mean you've seen it all."

"I suppose you have," Kate scoffed.

"I've DONE it all," Faith's voice lowered and took on that husky flavour.

"No you haven't," Kate laughed. "You just think you have."

Faith didn't say anything but walked out to the dance floor without looking back. Kate followed her erotic movements, forgetting about what she was supposed to be doing. Faith started grooving in the crowd, moving freely and seductively across the dance floor. The way her hips and arms moved had Kate staring openly as she took another sip of her drink. Faith started dancing with a cute blonde moving around her. The blonde cupped her face for a moment before moving on. Faith whipped her head around catching Kate's gaze on her. Turning her back on the detective, she smiled in satisfaction. A thin brunette wrapped her arms around her from behind and they danced together for a minute or two before Faith had enough and moved her body away in rhythm to the fast beats of a club dance mix. She spun again as Kate still sat entranced with the dance floor.

Kate couldn't take her eyes of Faith's dancing body. She was beautiful. Sensual. Erotic. Sexy. Her eyes narrowed when a barely dressed blonde draped both her arms over Faith's shoulders and pulled her in close. She could tell that they were making some heavy eye contact as they danced together. Faith reached over, grabbed her hips and slid the woman's body against hers. Kate watched their hips start a slow grind. It was getting hot, Kate thought to herself. Both her and Faith had left their jackets in the car, so it surely wasn't her clothes. The blonde was leaning over saying something to Faith and Kate could see Faith nodding and smiling back at her. She was about to break up the Slayer's party when she felt a hand on her shoulder.

"Haven't seen you here before," a tall beautiful brunette said moving her hand up and down Kate's arm.

"It's my first time," Kate replied standing so she could get out of the reach of the woman. This only encouraged the brunette.

"Can I buy you a drink?" She smiled at Kate.

"I already have one and I'm actually here with someone." Kate tried to look over to the dance floor but the woman got in her way.

"What women would rather be out there than with you?" The woman moved closer so their bodies were inches apart.

"Hey back off," a voice came from behind the woman. Kate let out a breath as she saw Faith poke the woman in the shoulder. "She's mine." It came out as a growl.

"Should be with her then," the woman accused. Faith walked around her and sat on the stool.

"And you shouldn't," Faith said wrapping her hands around Kate's waist from behind and pulling her into her lap in the one movement. Kate naturally struggled until Faith's hands pulled her tighter. She settled on the leather-covered legs aware that sitting here was a hell of a lot nicer than being hit on. "I see you trying something with her and I will bring you down on your knees in a much more unpleasant way than you were imagining." Faith's hold loosened a little when she realised Kate was going to play along.

"You should treat your woman better," the brunette said as a parting shot while she walked away.

"Thanks," Kate said momentarily embarrassed.

"That's what I'm here for, right?" Faith leaned her chin on the shoulder. She couldn't believe how good it was to feel Kate on her lap and surprisingly enough it wasn't all sexual. "Come and dance."

"We are here to-" Kate turned her head slightly and found herself looking deep into Faith's eyes. It must be the club, she thought to herself.

"That woman is still giving me the evil eye." Both their eyes travelled to where the brunette was standing, arms crossed, and staring back at them. Kate could see the point so she hopped off the warm lap. Faith never let go of her waist as they made their way to the edge of the undulating bodies. Faith turned her around keeping her hands just above the detective's pants. The track playing was a slick R & B number about getting it on. Perfect, Faith thought as she took her eyes off the waist and locked them onto a lovely shade of blue or green; it kept changing with the lights.

Kate gazed back, letting Faith lead them. She couldn't believe she was dancing with a woman. In a lesbian club of all places. Still, if it made that pushy woman go away, it would be worth it. For all her reservations, she felt safe with Faith's arms around her. No one else was going to approach her while Faith was there and she couldn't help but be grateful it was Faith and not Cordelia she was dancing with. Faith's hand moved lower and pulled her in more. Kate instinctively moved her hands to Faith's shoulders. Unsure of where they should go, she hung them lightly on the bare skin.

"She's still watching." Faith never lost eye contact with her.

"I think she should be convinced by now." Kate tore her eyes away and looked around the club for any sign of their perp. She wasn't even certain that she was looking for the right thing with this killer.

"If not she's got one hell of a surprise coming," Faith said taking a glance at the irritated woman watching from the sidelines.

"Promise me you won't fight with her." Kate's eyes locked back on the dark ones. She remembered club brawls weren't unknown to the girl.

"Promise you?" Faith chuckled. "I will only fight her if it the last alternative, okay?" Kate nodded, not sure if she liked it. "I'm not going to let you be carried off by some over-controlling dyke." Faith smiled and took one of Kate's hands in her own, gave it a squeeze, then let in drop again. No way, she added silently, you're all mine for tonight.

"Have you seen anything?" Kate asked as Faith's hands moved another inch lower. If they moved again they would be resting on her butt and if that happened Kate was out of there. So far, she had been enjoying the contact, but she knew Faith would push the boundaries.

"Oh yeah," Faith said as she licked her lips looking at Kate's.

"Faith, if you don't keep your mind on the job, we're leaving." She dropped her hands from the warm shoulders.

"I'm only protecting you," Faith responded as she took both of Kate's hands and started moving Kate with her.

Kate pulled her in close and said, "You're overdoing it."

"Something's going on here," Faith said as she tightened her hold.

"No-" Kate instantly denied.

"I mean," Faith pointed to a couple who were finding a dark corner of the room. Kate turned and watched a tall bleached blonde annoy a petite young woman. "What do you think?" For some reason Faith was getting a vibe off the couple, it was more than an unwanted suitor issue.

"Let's take a closer look," Kate said as she narrowed in on the couple. She felt Faith put an arm around her waist as they worked their way nearer the couple. Taking the pose like they were having an intimate conversation, they both slyly observed the scene. They couldn't make out what the couple were saying but it was clear the young woman was reluctant to do what the other woman was gesticulating.

"You're right," Kate breathed in Faith's ear. Faith took a moment to enjoy that sensation before turning her mind back to the scene. The bleached blonde turned in their direction and Faith gave her a smile as she wrapped her arms around Kate's shoulders and brought her head nearer, effectively turning Kate away from the couple.

"She's looking a little pissed off, must be a hard sell." The sensation of being so close to Kate was getting to her. She couldn't stop herself from having one part of her mind concentrating on the case and the other on how good the detective felt in her embrace. Kate didn't even know how sexy she was and it was causing Faith to get turned on by the unconscious eroticism.

"She matches my profile." Kate twisted her head so she could see the couple in her periphery.

"We gonna tail her?" Faith reluctantly came out of her fantasy.

"Best lead we've had all night." Kate took her eyes off the couple for a glance at Faith. The girl was all business now, thank goodness.

"And if doesn't pan out we may just save someone anyway." She saw Kate nod. The blonde turned their way again, but only saw Faith and Kate in deep conversation. The blonde tried for several more minutes to try to convince the young woman that she could show her a good time.

Faith had, in the meantime, started slowly moving to the music luxuriating in the feel of Kate's body to close to hers. The detective had never shown any sign of having any response to her, but that had never stopped Faith before. Take Buffy for instance, she thought to herself. That had been one hot dance they did at the Bronze and maybe the start of something if it hadn't been for one bad thrust of the stake. Maybe she had a thing for blondes. Sexy blondes that she'd danced with. Her hands trailed down Kate's spine, back to where they had been before they stepped off the dance floor. Kate's body moved in time with hers and she found the blonde was not a bad dancer. She had rhythm and natural grace. Her mind drifted back to the time she and Buffy should have gone to Homecoming together. More missed opportunities.

"What are you thinking about?" Kate noticed Faith had gone somewhere else in the last few minutes. She was worried the girl was going through one of her self-recrimination trips she had from time to time.

"Nothing," Faith said shaking her head. She unconsciously drew Kate closer for comfort.

"Hey, Faith." Kate moved her arms around her gently in the flashing lights. Faith looked up into the concerned eyes and gave the cop a gentle smile. Kate gave her a questioning look but Faith just kept up her smile.

The thumping stopped for a moment while the DJ announced a request. A Moby track came on and Kate led Faith out onto the dance floor to try and distract the Slayer from her thoughts. She tugged the girl into a warm embrace as they danced softly to the music. Still keeping an eye on the couple in the corner, she let herself enjoy the synchronised movements her and Faith were creating. This girl could dance something wicked, to use one of Faith's favourite words. She could feel Faith shaking off whatever had come over her and starting to get into the groove again. Something had changed between them though. They held onto each other a little more trusting and confident in each other.

After the track had finished they strolled back to the wall, this time getting closer to where it looked like the young woman was starting to give in.

"Looks like show time," Kate said as she let Faith wrap her arms around her waist again. She could think of no reason why she wasn't objecting to Faith's overenthusiastic job of keeping their cover. She couldn't remember the last time she had so much physical contact with someone in public.

"Alright. Human, you arrest, Demon, I slay?" Faith asked making sure they didn't forget their plan. There was no way she was going to let Kate fight a demon.

"That's the idea." Kate's mind turned completely to the job at hand. Faith saw the expression change. Determined Cop Mode, Faith named it. She had seen it a couple of times before, the first when she stated her desire to confess. The bleached blonde helped up the young woman and they started to slowly make their way to the door. Faith was ready to follow, but Kate pulled her back and waited until they were well across the room. Then breaking all contact with Faith, she pushed through the crowd and onto the street. She spotted them making their way down the boulevard. Faith caught up and they hurried after them.

"Where did the murders occur?" Faith couldn't remember.

"In a couple of alleys about five minutes away." Kate's hand went to her well-hidden gun and pulled it out. They pounded the pavement, keeping the distance between them and the couple as minimal as possible. The bleach blonde put her arm around the waist of the woman.

"Oh my god," Faith whispered, "do you see that?" Kate peered but couldn't see what Faith was talking about. "The arm. The hand."

"I see it," Kate said grimly looking at the clawed hand moving up and down the unsuspecting woman's back. They hurried their pace seeing the couple turned down a dark alley. Faith broke into a run when she lost sight of them. She charged around the corner startling the demon who slashed out at the young woman and took off. Faith pursued her out the other side of the alley and onto a moderately busy road. The demon accelerated away while Faith dodged a couple with a pram that just crossed the road and she had to give up when darkness enveloped the creature. When she made it back to the alley Kate was taking down the woman's details and consoling her on the ordeal.

"Got away," Faith said disgusted at herself.

"Thank you so much," the woman held out her hand as Faith came closer. Faith gave it a shake and looked to Kate.

"Then we'll do it all again tomorrow." Kate looked to the woman and back to the frustrated Slayer.

"You think she'll be back?"

"I hope so," Kate said trying to keep the doubt out of her voice. She turned to the woman. "How about you call that cab." She nodded in response and the three started back to Aphrodite's Lounge.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
END PART 1
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~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
PART 2
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After making sure the woman had driven away safely Faith turned to Kate, the noise of the club softly in the background. "What did the woman say?"

"She's a painter, the demon used that as a way to get her to leave saying she had a painting that she wanted looked at. Smooth talked her way into reassuring the woman that there was no danger." Kate started walking back to the car.

"Then she pulls a Jekyll and Hyde," Faith said disgusted. "Anything else?"

"We have a description. Six feet, blonde, hazel eyes. No distinguishing marks."

"Other than her claws."

"Maybe Wesley can find something in one of those books of his." Kate unlocked her car and they got in.

"Sounds like a plan. Might be a good idea to find other clubs in the area, she could switch after tonight."

Kate gave Faith a smile before starting the car. "I heard you weren't one for planning."

"Never said I can't, I just don't like 'em." Faith smirked at her.

"Why? Because it takes more than a couple of brain cells." Kate returned the smirk.

"You think that's funny, huh?" Faith chuckled. "I may not be Miss Straight A, but I know how to execute a plan. I did tonight."

"Yeah, you did," Kate said earnestly.

"We make a pretty good team, don't cha think."

"Maybe if you kept your mind completely on the job next time, I might consider us a good team."

"You blaming me?" Faith's voice turned hard.

"No, not at all." Kate looked over at her. "You were the one who spotted the target. But next time no more Sex on the Beach."

"I didn't even get one the first time, unless you want to make detour before we head back." Faith leaned over.

"You do this with Angel?"

"Sex on the beach?"

"Flirt."

"No, he's no fun with the brooding and all." Faith moved the hair out of her face and turned back to the road ahead.

"So what's your deal, Faith?" Kate gave her a glance.

"We're supposed to be lovers, right? I'm just getting into the act." She licked her lips at the thought of dancing with the sexy blonde next to her.

"In case you can't tell…" Kate stopped at a red light and turned to her 'supposed lover.' "…we're alone."

"Nothing wrong with getting in a little practice. You should try it sometime."

"I think I know what to do." Kate breathed a sigh of relief as the Hyperion came into view.

"Do you now, DK? When was the last time you slept with a woman?" Faith watched Kate pull up and take the keys from the ignition.

"When was the last time you did?"

"About three weeks ago." Faith retrieved her jacket and stepped out of the car. She heard Kate get out and follow her to the door.

"Did you even know her name?" They walked into the dimly lit lobby where there was no one in sight. Faith flopped on the couch and watched Kate's eyes pan around the room.

"At some point during the night, but I know I didn't scream it out."

"Don't you get tired of it?" Kate sat down in a chair and leaned forward.

"Sex? No way!"

"So you like having empty encounters?"

"I wouldn't call them empty. No mess, no fuss." Faith lay back on the couch and propped her head on her arm. They both turned their heads hearing footsteps come down the stairs.

"Cordelia," Faith called out.

"How did undercover go?" She worked her way over to where they were.

"Demon sighted, but not killed." Faith gave the brunette a tired smile. Cordelia had changed since leaving Sunnydale, Faith thought to herself. They were getting along okay as long as they didn't mention each other's past. "We go again tomorrow."

"Are you paying?" Cordelia turned to Kate.

"Cordelia, she's a friend," Faith protested, besides she didn't want to think Kate was spending time with her because she was being hired.

"Do you actually want a salary?" Cordelia asked her pointedly. "Thought so," she continued when Faith's expression changed. "Where do you think the money's coming from?"

"Faith, it's alright, I was planning on paying." Kate looked up at Cordelia. "Send me a bill when we've solved the case."

"Great," Cordelia said brightly.

"I've got to be going," Kate said standing up. "Same time tomorrow, okay?"

"Sure." Faith stood too. "I'll get Wes to look up the demon." They made their way back to Kate's car leaving Cordelia to whatever she was doing, which was probably trying to eavesdrop.

"Thanks." Kate smiled as she opened the door.

"No problem. We'll get her tomorrow night," Faith said determinedly.

"Tomorrow then." Kate nodded and got in the car. Faith watched her drive away from the hotel wondering why she was feeling disappointed.

*********************

The next night Kate led them around the back of the club to a door marked 'Employees Only.' A short blonde haired let them in and took them through to a tidy office. She introduced herself to Faith as Tammie. Kate summarised the previous evening and gave Tammie a description of the suspect minus the part about the claw. Wesley hadn't been able to find anything on the demon and he had concluded that she was a half-breed. The only problem was, many demons had claws so he couldn't narrow it down. As they were getting ready to go into the club the door opened and a tall brunette walked in.

"Faith, this is Alex," Tammie introduced her green eyes sparkling.

"Hey," Faith shook the woman's hand. "You two run a good club."

"Thanks," Alex drawled in a smooth honey voice that made Faith look twice at her. Her eyes had the most beautiful shade of blue.

"They have a lead," Tammie said as Alex moved over to her.

"Great." Alex smiled at both women.

"Honey, Aaron called about the order," Tammie said giving her lover's arm a squeeze. The tall woman nodded and excused herself.

"How long you been together?" Faith asked looking briefly at Kate before turning her attention back to the cute blonde.

"Three years, Alex bought the club about six years ago. It's how we met." Tammie's enthusiasm made Faith smile. Good luck to anyone who did the relationship thing, although it wasn't her style.

"Three years, she must be something," Faith said impressed.

"She's my soulmate," Tammie answered proudly. Faith gave a warm smile to her then turned to Kate's half smile. Kate gave her a 'what are you looking at' glare in return.

"Well, we'll get on with the job," Kate said turning back to the friendly woman. Tammie nodded and showed them to the private entrance into the club. As they walked down the corridor Faith turned to Kate.

"Cute couple. But three years. I can't even last three months."

"Maybe if you tried to find a soulmate instead of a one night screw you might find something worthwhile," Kate shot back then pushed the door open into the thumping club.

Faith closed the door behind them and then tried to lead Kate into the room, but Kate was having none of it. Instead the detective zeroed in on an empty table, took a seat and watched Faith do the same. The room was more crowded than the previous night as couples and the occasional group danced away the hours. The duo watched the room looking for a sign of the demon, but there was nothing for the first half-hour or so and Faith was starting to become bored. Here she was with a roomful of potential bedmates and she was sitting watching from the sidelines.

She glanced at Kate who was watching the entrance with the Determined Cop Mode expression on her face. Faith quickly stood and made it onto the dance floor before Kate could protest. She immediately found a tanned babe and started moving with her to bitchin' dance track. Faith made eye contact, gave her a sexy look and they were soon matching each other's movements with vigour. This girl could be fun, Faith thought. The music changed to a slower tempo and they stepped closer. The woman reached across, drew a willing Faith in and gave her a fiery kiss. Faith allowed the lips to play with hers for a few seconds before drawing back. They both smiled. Faith liked anyone who was willing to play and this girl was certainly that. Wrapping her hands around the woman's ass she pulled them together and started grinding hard on her hips. The woman moved in for another kiss.

As they broke apart she felt someone pull hard on her arm. She turned around about to give them a piece of her mind when she saw blue eyes bore into hers. Shit. She gave the babe one last kiss before turning and wrapping her arms around Kate's waist and drawing her hips into her own.

"We're here on a job," Kate said as she backed off a little. This was becoming too much of a game for Faith and she wasn't about to let the younger woman think that she was going to go along with her.

Faith pouted. "You were handling the search and spot just fine." Kate gave her a stare and tried to walk off but Faith forced her to turn back. "Seen anything?"

"No luck." Kate felt Faith's finger hook around her belt as a slow song started. Instead of the safe feeling she had the previous night, Faith was making her feel trapped. "I'm going back to sit down."

"I see her," Faith brought her mouth an inch from her ear. And a nice ear it was too, Faith gave it the once over. She would love to stick her tongue in there.

"Where?" Kate strained to see all the while trying to get Faith to back off.

"At the bar. I say we keep out of sight until she makes her move." Faith loosened her hold and swung them around so Kate could see while they kept swaying to the love song. "See her?" Kate's body unconsciously relaxed, but Faith could feel the change. Don't pressure her, she told herself. If she had any chance at all with the cop, Faith had to make sure Kate trusted her.

"Yes." Kate watched the demon engage a woman in a conversation. Faith turned them again and tilted her head to meet Kate's gaze.

"So DK, the plan?" Faith looked back to the demon.

"Watch and wait." Kate looked down, studying the concentrated expression on Faith. For the second night in a row, she was dancing with the Slayer despite the promise to herself that it was strictly a dance free zone for the night. But seeing her share several heated kisses with a woman that could be from the pages of a fashion magazine made Kate change her mind. Without thinking about the consequences, she had jumped up with the intention of stopping Faith getting all personal with the woman. So, here she was with Faith's palms so close to her ass and her own arms resting on the brunette's bare shoulders dancing to some saccharine lyrics about forever love. Soulmates, that's what Tammie had said. Was there such a thing? She didn't think so any more.

The demon glanced around the room after the woman she was talking to had brushed her off. Faith watched as the creature wrinkled its nose, turned and walked out of the bar.

"Shit," Faith swore letting go of Kate and moving towards the door. She rushed out onto the street but there was no sign of the demon. Kate came out a couple of seconds later. "There's no sign."

"What happened?" Kate demanded pissed off.

"I don't know. She didn't see us, I'm sure of that. Maybe there wasn't anything doing in the victim market tonight," Faith said giving her a scowl. She wasn't to blame.

"That's just great." Kate paced.

"Tomorrow we'll get her." Faith looked out into the busy street trying to look for where the demon disappeared. If the demon had put on the speed she did the night before it was no wonder she had disappeared.

"Let's get out of here." Kate took off for the car leaving Faith to try to catch up with her. When she reached the car Kate had already started it up. Thinking it was better to leave the detective to her temper she busied herself with thinking lusty thoughts she had while dancing with her.

"I'll see you tomorrow," Kate said pulling up outside the Hyperion.

"Don't you want to come in?" Faith asked hopefully.

"No, I have a busy day tomorrow."

"Okay, but Kate?"

"Yeah," she answered wearily.

"At least she showed up. We're on the right track." Kate gave her a small smile before waving her out of the car.

Faith walked up to her room again feeling disappointed at the way the night had gone. Though the sexy woman she had been practically doing on the dance floor was Faith's type, she was more interested in thinking about one tough-as-nails cop that was only in the club to catch a killer. If only she could get Kate to have a good time. The detective seemed more into it tonight, but the cop was still holding back. Faith wanted to know how to get the party girl in her to come out and play. It was going to be hard, but it was well worth it. She wanted to get under Kate's skin for some reason, maybe it was because Kate was getting under hers. That hadn't happened since B. B, Faith thought sadly. The Slayers had spoken once since she got out of jail. It was strained, but the Buffster was willing to acknowledge they were on the same side again. Maybe she should call her, see how things were going up at the Hellmouth.

*********************

Faith found herself alone as the rest of Angel Investigations went out on a job. She wanted to go along, but Angel thought it best she rest up for the night ahead. It was getting late and she had finished going through a light workout an hour ago. Maybe she should really call B for a chat. As she was searching for the number Kate came in. She looked up from the drawer and took in Kate's appearance. Did this woman get even sexier every time she saw her or what?

"What are you doing?" Kate leaned over the counter and set her inquisitive eyes on Faith.

"Looking for something." Faith shut the drawer with a bang and turned to face her. "You're early."

"I thought we could go over our strategy. We shouldn't be waiting around until she picks another victim. I was too caught up to realise that we don't need evidence to put her away."

"Okay." Faith put her elbows on the counter and leaned forward so she was inches away from Kate. "Go in for the kill as soon as we get her out of the club."

"Well, preferably without witnesses." Kate backed off the counter and went to sit down on one of the chairs. "Where's everybody?"

"Demon slaying." Faith gave up looking for the number; it could wait until tomorrow. She twisted about to make her move over to Kate when she saw a list of numbers on the wall. Bingo. Faith knew the Slayer was spending more time at home these days so she should try there. She picked up the phone and was about to dial when Kate walked over again. No way was the cop gonna listen in so she put it down again.

"Are you alright?" Kate asked watching Faith's expression change from annoyed to blank.

"Five by five," Faith said as she started walking away. "I'm going to get ready." Kate looked on as Faith stomped up the stairs, puzzled at her behaviour. Maybe she wanted to go demon slaying with the others rather than help a cop with some half-breed demon.

When Faith descended the stairs Kate couldn't help but stare. While her legs were covered with black leather, her top was a black vest-like thing fashioned with holes throughout. Faith smiled down on her. "You like?"

"We're supposed to be undercover, not barely covered." Kate tore her eyes away from some impressive skin being exhibited. "It's like you're asking to be the centre of attention."

"Never know who I might meet. Could be my soulmate," Faith smirked and jumped down to the floor.

"Or another nameless conquest you don't give a shit about."

"How about you don't judge me and I won't tell you how you need to get a life." Faith walked over the counter making sure the answering machine was on. She saw Kate's face frown and felt satisfied.

They made it into the club and headed for a table. Faith never made it to her chair. She was caught up by a pair of arms wrapping around her and pulling her out on to the dance floor. Turning around, she grinned at Miss Tanned Babe from the night before.

"Hope your friend doesn't mind," the woman said as she pulled Faith close. Faith shot a look at the glare Kate had plastered on her face and smirked. She turned back and shook her head.

"We have an open relationship," Faith said bringing their bodies closer.

"She can't keep you chained then?" The woman took a good look at the blonde staring at them. "She doesn't look too happy."

"She knows what to do about if she doesn't like it." Faith moved them further into the crowd and started getting into the music. God, it felt so good to let go like this. She whipped her body around keeping up with her dance partner as they grooved to three songs. When a slow song started Faith made a sweep of the room with her eyes. Her eyes narrowed in on the demon coming in the door. She swayed with the woman for a few minutes while keeping a close eye on it. She noticed Kate had seen it too.

The demon had better luck and had found a victim within minutes of coming in the club. Faith watched as a well-dressed young woman laughed and smiled with the demon before nodding her head. She looked at Kate and they both knew what they had to do. Faith reluctantly unravelled herself from Tanned Babe and hurried out into the night. Kate worked her way to the entrance and caught up with her.

"I'm going around the other side of the first alley." Faith squeezed her shoulder and took off before Kate contradicted her. She reached the other entrance and snuck a look around into the alley. Jeez, it was dark. There was a couple of minutes of waiting, before she caught sight of the couple walking past on the other side. She moved along to the next alley, stopping when the she saw them halt mid-way down. Faith waited a couple of beats before creeping up a couple of steps. Kate appeared loudly on the other side with her gun pointing towards the demon. The demon dropped the young woman she was about to kill and ran towards Faith. In the darkness she didn't see the Slayer until it was too late. They traded blows, neither getting an advantage. This chick was one tough nut, Faith thought as she felt the claws whoosh past her arm.

The fight went on until Faith got a good look at the demon's stomach and went in hard with her stake. The demon stumbled back, then turned and fled. Faith, never taking her eyes off the black figure, followed for a few blocks. She was getting winded with the fervour of the chase when the demon turned down another alley and into a building. Faith pursued her into what looked like the demon's home base. She busted down an inner door and found the demon huddled in the corner. Weird, Faith thought as she advanced on it. A couple of good kicks, punches and stake thrusts later the demon was dead, it's body disintegrating immediately.

Faith caught her breath and looked around the room. In one corner was a mattress with a few pieces of clothing strewn around. There was evidence of take out and pizza boxes around. But the thing that caught her attention was a wall full of pictures and newspaper clippings of the demon's victims. Faith shook her head. Time to get back to Kate and tell her the good news.

"You're bleeding." Kate watched Faith stroll back to the alley.

"Chill, it's demon blood." Faith twisted and gave her shoulder a wipe with her palm. "I didn't know you cared, DK."

"Of course I care, you idiot." Kate took out a tissue and wiped off the blood just to make sure there was no cut under it. When she had finished and found untouched skin she looked at Faith with a small smile on her face. "You know I think you're right. We do make a good team."

"We're one for one. Need to clean up the lair though, seems like she was one to take pride in the reporting of her work."

"She was exhibiting signs of a serial killer?" Kate asked surprised. It was in her profile, but this was a demon.

"Looks like it."

"I'll take care of it tomorrow," Kate said as they made their way back to the club.

Faith looked back at her shoulder trying to suppress a shudder of arousal that went through her both from the fight and Kate's presence. "How about we celebrate, Aphrodite's Lounge style."

"How about no."

"Oh, come on, how about you let your hair down for once."

"You can go back to that Playboy model, but I've had enough for one night."

"Playboy model?" Faith asked both her eyebrow rising. "You jealous or something."

"Hardly."

"I'm not talking of me, I'm talking about being jealous of her."

"For getting a quick lay with you?" Kate laughed in her face. "Please, you'd fuck anything that has a pulse."

"I do have some standards," Faith said, the comment coming out way too seriously.

"You have no standards," Kate threw back at her coming to a stop outside the club.

"I've never flirted with Cordelia, I'd say that's a standard and a half. Even Wes, the old chap, has stooped that low."

"You've never thought about getting in her pants?" Kate asked unbelieving.

"Well…" Faith laughed wryly. "But not seriously."

"Not your type?"

"Always been something better around for me to be distracted by." Faith looked to the entrance of the club. How could she entice Kate back in there, she wondered.

"Angel," Kate guessed.

"No, he's not a blonde," Faith said watching a happy couple enter the doors. "Plus no pulse."

"So blonde is your thing. You think I'm going to fall for that line?" Kate shook her head and started walking to the car.

"It's luck you're a blonde." Faith put an arm on Kate making her stop. "But you're not the first."

Kate thought about the blondes Faith knew. "Buffy."

"B?" Faith tried to laugh it off. She should have known Kate would figure things out, after all she did it for a living.

"That was who you were going to call earlier," Kate said facing Faith.

"That's none of your business. I'm going to tell Tammie and Alex everything's cool now." Faith took off around the back of the club. Kate sighed and chased after her. What she found was Faith interrupting a kiss or three between the owners in their office.

"Sorry," she apologised for them both.

"That's okay," Tammie said chuckling. Alex looked more embarrassed than her lover did but she gave Faith and Kate a smirk of her own.

"We've got good news," Faith said winking at Alex. "Case closed."

"Oh thank goodness," Tammie said and enclosed her arms around Faith in an overpowering hug. Faith turned to Kate gave her a wink.

"Hey I saw that, you cheek," Tammie admonished lightly. She turned to Kate and gave her the same treatment.

"That's great news," Alex said and chose to shake their hands instead.

"As a thank you allow us to give you free entry and drinks for a night of your choice," Tammie picked up some promotional free passes she had laying around.

"Oh we couldn't-" Kate started.

"Yes we could," Faith smiled and took the passes from Tammie. "Thank you."

"We'll be glad to have you back anytime," Tammie said as she wrapped her arms around Alex. "But since you've solved the case, join us for a drink now."

Kate made pretence of looking at her watch. "We shouldn't."

"Of course we will," Faith rolled her eyes to the couple knowing Kate couldn't see. "I told you, you need to let loose for once in your life," Faith said to the cop.

"Let's go then," Tammie led the way into the club and then up a set of stairs neither Kate nor Faith had paid much attention to before. The second floor was smaller than the main room and this made it more intimate. There was a second smaller bar with one bartender present compared to the four or five downstairs. Taking up the rest of the floor were couches and lounge chairs where couples were chatting or finding some privacy for more intimate activities. The music seeped through but it was duller and softer enough to be able to carry a conversation without resorting to the occasional shout.

Alex led them to a couple of couches facing each other while Tammie went and ordered at the bar. They sat in silence while the demon hunters surveyed the room.

"Here you go." Tammie came back with a tray of drinks and some pretzels. They each took a drink and Tammie sat down on Alex's lap. Neither Faith nor Kate missed the affection between them. "So how long have you been together?"

"Uh, I think you've misunderstood." Kate glanced over at Faith praying Faith would not decide to have some fun at her expense.

"Oh really," Tammie said surprised. "I would swear you two were an item."

"We're just friends." Faith noticed Kate's uncomfortableness.

"Yeah, right," Alex snorted. When three glares came her way she threw up her hands and said, "What!"

"We don't even know each other all that well. This was just an undercover job." Faith explained further when Kate threw her a subtle glance.

"Well you played the part perfectly," Tammie complimented. "Where did you learn to dance like that?"

"Boston." Faith shrugged. They started talking about how Tammie and Alex ran the club and Faith tuned them out. What did Tammie mean when she thought they were lovers? She knew she wasn't one to keep quiet when she was attracted to someone. Maybe Tammie had picked up on her lust for Kate. That had to be it. But the small blonde seemed shocked at the news. Faith gave Kate a glance, wondering if Tammie had picked up anything from Kate as well.

"There you are!" Faith looked around to see Tanned Babe leaning over her.

"Hey, sorry about before, I thought I saw someone I knew." Faith gazed up into hazel eyes.

"Did you?" Tanned Babe implied sarcastically.

"Yeah, had a chat with them for awhile then came back in." Faith smiled falsely. This woman was starting to become Stalker Babe.

"Do you want to dance?"

"Maybe another time." Faith pressed her palm on Kate's thigh making sure the woman saw exactly what she was doing.

"You sure?"

"Extremely." Faith gave her another smile and started to lean over to Kate's shoulder.

"Okay, see you round," the woman said disappointed.

"Yeah," Faith replied her patience being tested. The woman blew her a kiss then slunk away. Faith gave Kate's thigh a squeeze before taking her hand off.

"Someone's got an admirer," Tammie teased in a singsong voice. They all laughed and Alex resumed the conversation from where it left off. This time Kate blocked out the honey voice of the tall brunette. The warmth of Faith's hand still burned into her thigh. She wanted to reach over and put it back. She studied Faith as the girl enthusiastically joined in the conversation about the type of music played in the club. The dark haired girl was a series of contradictions to Kate. Earlier in the night she was sure Faith was interested in that woman, but she had just turned her down unrepentantly. She was about to lean over and ask why when Faith offered to get more pretzels. Right, like you couldn't have enough of them, Kate thought disappointed and a bit mad at herself for wanting to get personal with Faith.

"She likes you," Tammie commented when Faith was out of earshot.

"She likes anyone," Kate said watching Faith flirt with someone waiting at the bar. "Case in point." Tammie and Alex looked over to Faith who was laughing with a woman.

"No. I mean she really likes you."

Kate turned back to Tammie and shook her head, "I don't think you understand. Faith is looking for a quick fix. I happen to be pick of the night."

"It's more than that, watch her. Where you see seduction I see affection." Tammie turned to Alex. "Don't you agree?"

"Oh yeah," Alex smirked at Kate. "Believe me, I should know, I used to be like Faith until some cute blonde came along." She grinned down at her lover who gave her a peck for her comment.

"I'm not the blonde Faith wants," Kate said forcefully watching Faith stroll back, her arms laden with peanuts and pretzels.

"So what did I miss?" Faith sat down and grinned at Kate. Slayer hearing was good for a few things, including people talking behind her back. Why did Tammie tell Kate that she liked her? Or more importantly, what was Kate's response?

"Nothing." Kate took a dip in the basket of pretzels avoiding eye contact with anyone.

"Cool. I'm going downstairs to have a dance, if no one minds." No one answered so she caught up with the girl at the bar and they started down to the crowd of swaying bodies. She could feel Kate's eyes on her the whole way. Kelly, the girl that was sticking by her in an eager fashion, was okay but what Faith really wanted was to dance and let off some steam.

Upstairs Alex and Tammie were smirking at Kate eyeing Faith until she was out of sight. "If Faith liked me she would be here, not dancing with a stranger." Kate reasoned, more to herself than to the couple opposite her. "Explain that to me."

"She just asked you to dance," Tammie said exasperated.

"Well I'm not up on lesbian dance proposals," Kate shot back. Staying was a bad idea, she thought.

"Okay, I understand," Tammie said gently. "Sorry, I thought I had it all figured out."

"This was just an undercover assignment for me. I brought Faith in because of her…personality." Kate stood. "I really have to be going."

"Of course, thank you for cracking the case," Tammie said as she unwrapped herself from Alex and stood. "I hope you do come back someday."

"I don't think so." Kate shook their hands again and went to look for Faith.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
END PART 2
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
PART 3
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

She wasn't easy to miss as she stepped off the stairs. Dancing with at least three other girls, they were the showpiece on the dance floor at that moment. She leaned against the wall, crossed her arms and took in the enticing sight before her. Faith was the best dancer of the group by a mile. The way she used her body to communicate her sexiness and availability yet with a warning that she wasn't a pushover. That confidence, Kate thought, she's so self-assured. She knows how good she looks and uses it.

Faith twisted around and caught one blonde detective checking her out. A hand reached out and brought her back to the group, but Faith lost interest in everyone around her. She wanted to be dancing with Kate. She slowly danced her way out of crowd and moved over to the blonde, all the time keeping their eyes locked together.

"Come and join me?" Faith asked breathlessly.

"It's time to go." Kate uncrossed her arms. She had been caught, she could tell by the way Faith was leering at her.

Faith took a look back at the dance floor, a couple of girls motioning her to go back. Then she focussed on Kate again. "One dance?"

"If you want to stay you can, but I'm going." She pushed off the wall.

"No, I'm ready to go." Faith started leading them out when Kelly and a couple of other girls stopped her.

"Aren't you coming back?" Kelly whined.

"Nah, sorry, but I might be back another night." Faith felt Kate give her a soft push in the back.

"Who's this?" Kelly looked Kate up and down.

"A friend." Faith reached over and took Kate's hand. "We met a couple of nights ago."

"I wouldn't mind having some of that." Another girl commented. Faith could feel Kate's body stiffen.

"You never will." Faith zeroed in on the woman. "She's too good for you."

"Oh yeah!" The girl stepped forward. Faith placed her arm around Kate's waist and started to steer them to the door. The girl was ready to stop them but at the last moment Faith hooked her elbow out and connected with her shoulder. Not wanting to fight in Tammie and Alex's club, she retook Kate's hand and scurried to the private entrance before the girl retaliated. She shut the door behind them and she breathed out loud.

"You would swear some of those girls like to make up for the lack of testosterone in the club. Sorry about that." Faith dropped Kate's hand and went out into the night. Kate watched Faith look up in the sky.

"You think I'm too good for them?" Kate asked to break the silence. Her mind was not working on full cylinders at the moment. Faith had turned down more invitations and she was starting to think it was because of her, but that was impossible because Faith wasn't even interested beyond flirting.

"You have class, they wouldn't know how to even spell it." Faith gave her a grin and started the short journey to the car.

"They're good enough for you, though," Kate accused not sure why.

"I'm an ex-crim. Not much class in that." Faith walked ahead and was waiting by the car when Kate caught up with her. Is that why you don't think you have a chance with Buffy? Kate asked Faith silently.

When Kate didn't say anything about her comment, Faith took it as a sign that Kate agreed with her. What are you thinking? Faith mentally rebuked herself. Kate is too nice, too classy and too smart to ever want a piece of you.

"Good night then," Faith said and opened the door as soon as Kate pulled up.

"Yeah," Kate said disappointed. "Thanks for the help."

"I'm being paid, remember." And that's the only way I ever got you to dance with me, Faith added silently. She wasn't sure why this chick was making her feel depressed. After all, there were more than enough people willing to sleep with her down at the club.

"Right," Kate said discouraged. "Next time I have a demon problem I know who to come to."

"Yeah, just don't tell Angel. He gets put out when he thinks he's not the number one helper in the city," Faith joked.

"Secret's safe with me." Faith nodded and then stalled getting out. "Good luck with Buffy."

"Buffy?" Faith asked puzzled. "You mean the phone call? Yeah gonna need all the luck I can get." Faith gave her one last look and then climbed out. Buffy Summers, Kate thought, I hope you know how lucky you are.

*********************

A couple of days later Kate went down to the Hyperion to pay the bill. Cordelia was behind the counter working on the computer. They greeted each other and Kate got down to the business of paying the bill, making Cordelia's mood friendly.

"Where's Faith?" Kate looked around.

"Angel, Gunn and her are off fighting some icky demon. Slime does nothing for my complexion."

"How is she doing?"

"Well she hasn't gone Rogue Slayer on us yet, if that's what you're asking." Cordelia smiled. "She even spoke to Buffy last night. And for Buffy, that's some major forgiving she's doing."

"She and Buffy were close before she went bad?" Kate asked. If anyone would know it would be Cordelia.

"Totally. I even thought at one point there might be something going on, but Buffy was still with Angel so I don't know. But if you want the real gossip, it's that Faith was so into Buffy. Jealous of everything she had."

"Really?" Kate asked seemingly disinterested.

"But that's in the past," Cordelia said and Kate just stopped herself from giving her a dirty look. Don't stop there, she tried to plead psychically. "I have no idea how the situation is now. Buffy has that marine she's seeing or so I'm told."

"Buffy's seeing someone?" Kate asked now completely confused.

"I just said that. You know," Cordelia stopped and peered at Kate, "you're a little too interested in this."

"It's just something Faith said."

"What?" Cordelia asked ever on the lookout for more gossip.

"You know Faith, sex talk comes out of her mouth frequently."

"And nothing screams slut louder." Cordelia grinned until she saw the glare from Kate. "Do you want to wait for her, I don't think they should be too long."

"Do you mind if I take a look around the hotel?" Kate had been interested in the place since she found out about Angel's new headquarters.

"Uh, here they come," Cordelia said making Kate turn. In the door walked a trio of dirty, slimy but alive figures looking none too pleased with their efforts despite the win.

"DK." Faith smiled at the sight of the detective. "Wanna hug?"

"Like I need a hole in my head." Kate couldn't see much clean skin on the Slayer.

"Hello to you too." Faith smirked and put down the battle-axe she was carrying. "What are you doing in this part of town?"

"I have something of yours."

"Okay, come upstairs with me," Faith said as she started ascending. She turned around and looked at Cordelia. "Next time you have one of those visions, make sure you tell us how slimy the demon is. Is that too much to ask?" Cordelia laughed with a little too much humour and Faith mimicked her as she turned around and stomped up the stairs with Kate behind her. She opened her door went straight to the bathroom where she ripped off her top and pants. She took a two minute shower and was pleased when she saw the slime disappearing down the drain.

Kate sat down in one of the chairs and looked at the mess in the room. She picked up one of Faith's magazines while she waited for Faith to finish cleaning herself up.

"So what do you have for me?" Faith asked coming back in the room. Kate looked up to speak when her eyebrows rose along with rest of her forehead. Faith was standing in front of with nothing but a bra and panties on. Faith chuckled as she reached for a clean top and pants. Kate averted her eyes and put the magazine down. Reaching into her pocket she pulled out the Aphrodite's Lounge passes.

"You left these in my car the other night." She put them down on the coffee table. When she looked up again Faith was dressed and brushing her hair.

"Thanks." Faith bounced onto her bed and laid out with her hands behind her head. She let out a groan.

"You okay there?" Kate chuckled.

"Do you know what it is like to fight while trying to avoid sprays of demon slime shooting towards you. God, it is not as fun as the movies make it out to be." Faith moved slightly.

"Sure doesn't look like it," Kate said for once not envying Faith's duty in life.

"Spoke to B last night." Faith sat up and propped a pillow behind her.

"How did it go?" Kate came and stood by the bed. The chair seemed too far away.

"She wants to see me sometime," Faith beamed.

"That's great," Kate tried to make it sound sincere.

"I know. Never thought that would happen again. Might even go patrolling with her. The Chosen Two fighting side by side again." Faith couldn't keep the delight off her face. Just thinking about the conversation with Buffy the night before made her smile. "Wicked cool."

"So would you go back to Sunnydale?" Kate asked finally sitting down on the corner of the big bed.

"Of course, but I wouldn't move back there. Maybe visit every couple of weeks if that's what B wants."

"So things are getting back on track?"

"I guess they are," Faith said thoughtfully. "Listen." She sat straight up and looked intently at Kate. "I've been meaning to thank you for everything you've done for me."

"Done for you?" Kate asked puzzled.

"You know," Faith said awkwardly. "Helped me getting used to life outside. And for making sure I was safe while inside. Angel told me our favourite lawyers tried to get access to me and you stopped them. So…thanks."

"I wanted to see you see this through." Kate gave her a warm smile. "You wanted to be rehabilitated and I wasn't about to let anyone try to sway your beliefs otherwise."

"My PO says that I'm one of easiest he's had. I have a job, place to stay and great friends who were willing to stick around. He says that's a good recipe for success."

"It is." Kate agreed. "Angel really believes in you."

"Who would have thought a vampire is helping a Slayer. Too weird." Faith laughed and flopped back on the pillows. Talking with Kate felt really good. She wished that Kate could have been her Watcher. Maybe none of this would have happened if that were the case. But Kate was a cop, not some Council pawn. "Weird but good." The phone rang and Faith picked it up.

"B, hey what's up girlfriend," Faith greeted after Cordelia connected her. She had to get her own phone number; she didn't want Cordy listening to her private conversations. Faith laughed at what Buffy had just said. "That's great. How about the Bronze?" Kate sat awkwardly for a moment before deciding to leave. She felt an arm on her and dark eyes pleading with her to stay.

"Hang on B." Faith covered the mouthpiece. "I won't be long."

"You sure you don't want me to go?" Kate asked unable to look away.

"I really want to talk to you some more. B just wants to make some arrangements." Kate nodded and watched Faith put the phone to her ear again. "Sorry." As Faith listened to what Buffy had to say Kate settled back on the bed. "Yeah, Kate's here…Yes the detective…She's a good guy, B." Faith rolled her eyes at Kate. "Okay Saturday's fine…No…Someday I'm gonna get my own set of wheels…Actually I was thinking a Harley…Yes way! Did you know Wes has a bike…Double yes way!" Faith giggled into the phone, her eyes roving over her CD collection. Kate kept hers on the setting sun outside. "What about a girl's night out? I don't think the beefstick is going to want to see me…Sorry. Riley. I don't think Riley will be too pleased. Bring Red and her blonde witch friend…Xander's girl?…I don't know her." Faith crossed her feet and shifted, aware that Kate was waiting. "Don't worry, I'll be there. Okay?…Okay see you then. See ya." Faith put down the phone and turned to Kate's gaze.

"You made plans?" Kate asked after Faith didn't say anything, but sat there smiling happily.

"Yeah, for Saturday in Sunnydale. Going to the Bronze, which is the only decent joint in town. Hopefully B's friends will be as forgiving as the girl herself."

"I'm sure it will be fine," Kate reassured as a look of uncertainty crossed Faith's features.

"As long as we don't talk about her beefstick's close encounter with me."

"What?" Kate asked puzzled.

"I slept with B's boyfriend after waking up from my lengthy rest in hospital." Faith's lips curled up in a smirk for a brief time.

"You didn't?" Kate said in amazement.

"'Fraid so. I don't recommend it," Faith said with a straight face. "We haven't mentioned it since that night on the roof. Still can't believe she's still with him."

"Who's Red?"

"Willow. B's best friend. She's playing for the same team now." Faith chuckled. "That was a big mind warp. Out of all of them I thought Red would be the least likely to be gay. Xander, maybe, Cordelia, not out of the question, B, if she ever let herself. But Red. Miss-I'm-So-Smart. I guess after doing it with a werewolf she had a taste of the kinky."

"Is she blonde?" Kate asked, a wry smile on her face. Werewolf? She left that one alone.

"No," Faith gave a big laugh, "she's a redhead." Kate chuckled too. "Her girlfriend is blonde. I think. I only met her once. But enough of that. How about we use the passes tonight?" Faith smiled lazily over to Kate.

"Sure you don't want to save them for another blonde?" Kate asked studying Faith's seductive look. Definitively not one of affection, Kate thought.

"Another blonde? If you mean B, there is no way I'm going to get her down there. We've only just started talking again. It's not as if we're solid buddies or anything. Besides the last time we went dancing, well let's just say that bad memories were created around that time. Loving the dance one night, hating the events of the next," Faith said her voice becoming softer. She laid her head back and closed her eyes trying to block out the memories of the night. God, they always haunted her.

"Hey," Kate called out gently and put her hand on Faith's thigh. "Come back to the present."

Faith opened her eyes but didn't look over. "Sorry."

"No need to be sorry. You know I'm here for you."

"Yeah I know." Faith rolled her head towards her. "You're my number one blonde." Kate laughed dubiously. "No really. No other blonde has stepped foot in my room."

"Is that right?" Kate felt relieved that Faith thought so well of her. "How about all the no-names."

"Please, you think I bring them back here." Faith shook her head. "So how about it? You and me and celebrating the demise of the slime demon and every other success we've had this week."

"I don't think so." Kate shook her head. That club just wasn't for her, however if Faith had offered another venue she might seriously think about it.

"You want to hear some blonde jokes? I've got plenty of them. I'm going to tell them until you agree, okay? Did you hear about the blonde…" Faith threatened.

"That's so juvenile, Faith."

"Hey, cut me some slack, I'm still in my teens." Faith joked as an idea popped in her head. She jumped up from the bed and turned on her stereo. "If you're not going to come with me at least allow me one last dance." She started moving to a dance song. Kate watched as Faith danced her way over to her. "Come on, Blondie." She took hold of Kate's limp hand and pulled her up. Slayer strength was the only reason Kate found herself wrapped up in Faith's arms.

"Blondie?" Kate asked starting to move her body in time with Faith's in a familiar pattern. "Is that the best pick-up line you've got?"

"I don't need pick-up lines." Faith looked to the door for a moment. Cordelia had a habit of bursting in without knocking.

"I have to be going." Kate extracted herself from Faith's still grinding body. "Good luck for Saturday. Maybe you might happen to get the blonde you want up there." She turned to leave when Faith blocked her way.

"The blonde I want?" Faith looked her right in the eye. "What does that mean?"

"Faith, we both know you're in love with Buffy. Every other blonde is just a substitute for her. So stop trying to seduce me and go after her."

Faith moved her body onto the door, wanting to make sure Kate wasn't going to leave before she listened to what she had to say. "I'm not in love with Buffy."

"Yeah right. Like if she was here instead of me you wouldn't be all over her."

"You sound jealous, DK. Could that be because you want me all over you?" Faith said with only a hint of humour in her voice.

"You're out of your mind."

"No, I thinking more clearly now. You think I'm trying to seduce you because I can't have Buffy?"

"Well you are aren't you?" Kate crossed her arms.

"No." Faith reached behind her and flipped the lock on the door. Anyone who wanted to know why she and Kate were locked in her room could get lost.

"I think I know when I'm being come on to."

"You got that part right, but it's not about Buffy or about being blonde." Faith watched Kate take that in.

"So I'm just another easy lay?" Kate uncrossed her arms.

"No. You'd never be easy." Faith for once in her life couldn't tell what someone wanted from her.

"So you see this as a challenge?"

"No!" Faith shook her head violently.

"So what's this about Faith?" Kate reached out and grabbed the handle. Faith couldn't think of anything to say. "Thought so." She flipped the lock and yanked hard. Faith moved out the way and it was enough for Kate squeeze past and down the hall.

"Kate!" Faith ran and caught up with her at the elevator. "Wait."

"Just go back to Buffy, Faith. And leave me alone." They got to the top of the lobby stairs.

"Why did Tammie say I like you?" Faith's words made Kate whip her head around.

"She was trying to play matchmaker. Now excuse me." Kate hurried down the stairs aware the whole of Angel Investigation's eyes were on her. Faith watched her go then slammed her door and locked it.

*********************

Kate walked into the 'Employees Only' entrance of Aphrodite's Lounge. Tammie had requested she come down to check out a problem they were having with one of the bartenders. It had been a week since she had stormed out of Angel Investigations. Angel had called her to find out if she was okay. Apparently, Faith had told him that they had fought about Faith's fast and hard lifestyle. A couple of days after that Cordelia had called for the same reason. She had told her the same story as she told Angel; Faith and her just had a disagreement that would be sorted out when they both had calmed down.

Before she had walked in, Kate had taken in the crowd waiting outside. Friday night had made sure the queue was the longest she had seen it. Thankfully, she wouldn't be going in. She knocked on the office door. A shout of 'come in' responded so she pushed open the door. Seated at her desk was Alex.

"Hi." Kate shut the door.

"Hey ya." Alex grinned and finished what she was writing. She put the pen down and clasped her hands together on the desk. "You're late."

"Sorry about that, got caught up at work."

"Tammie is busy, so it has been left to me to show you the way." Alex stepped out and moved to the door. "Please follow me."

"Can you tell me what it is you want me to do?" Kate asked striding after Alex to the private entrance into the club.

"I'll show you when we get out there." Alex pushed open the door and they were greeted to a blast of dance music. Kate was right, the place was crowded. "Would you excuse me a minute." Kate turned around to respond but Alex was already on her way up the stairs. She waited a couple of minutes watching the dance floor. She found herself trying to find Faith in the crowd. Don't be ridiculous, she told herself. The sea of bodies swept along with the music, having fun on a Friday night. Kate sighed and looked to the stairs. She smiled in relief as she saw Alex with Tammie making their way towards her.

"Sorry about that," Tammie said holding out her hand. Kate took it and opened her mouth to ask her what was going on when the DJ's booming voice filled the room.

"Hey ladies." She shouted to her captive audience. Cheers went up from the full room. "I've got an announcement to make. This next song is a request from one sexy chick to DK." Kate looked at the DJ in disbelief. "And she asked me to say, DK, you're one wicked babe and she would be honoured if you shared this dance with her. Not because of anything but the fact that she really digs you. So DK wherever you are go find this sexy chick and shake it baby!" The opening strains of 'Can't Fight the Moonlight' started to play while Kate looked back at Tammie and Alex who couldn't keep the grins off their faces. Behind them from the private entrance emerged Faith. Tammie and Alex made themselves scarce while Faith and Kate locked eyes. The DJ started using every disco light in the club while Kate and Faith continued their unabated gaze. Not sure what to do with a paralysed Kate, Faith swayed her hips to the thumping music.

"Can't fight the moonlight, no you can't fight it, it's gonna get to your heart." Faith sang as she came, wrapped her arms around a still shocked Kate and brought them out onto the dance floor. Faith used her strength to start them moving in synchrony to the drumbeats. After a few seconds and noticing that Kate was actually starting to loosen up Faith trailed her hands down Kate's arms until she held the strong hands in her own. In time with music, she slowly placed Kate's arms around her own shoulders. When she felt the palms rest on her back she dropped her hands to her favourite place, just above Kate's ass. Faith moved her eyes to a still surprised but friendly face and gave the detective an endearing smile as they danced.

This was a first for the detective. It felt like she was being serenaded. Only she never imagined that it would happen in a lesbian club or that her knight in shining armour would be a Slayer. She'd all but given up on the hope of anyone treating her like this and here was Faith, someone who she'd accused a week ago of playing with her feelings, doing exactly what she had dreamed of.

The Slayer led them with her natural rhythm and Kate tightened her hold on Faith's back content for her take the lead. Taking that as a good sign Faith dropped her hands to a sexy ass and drew their bodies together. Kate didn't know what to do but she found that she liked the touch so she gave Faith a small smile. The Slayer started singing to her again as the song worked up the last couple of chorus repeats.

"You can try to resist, try to (got to) hide from my kiss, but you know…" Faith lost timing as she saw Kate relax under her touch and give her a more confident smile. Almost a leer, Faith desperately hoped that's what she saw.

The song wound down and as the last strains of the lyrics were heard Faith skimmed her hands up to the back of Kate's head and pulled her in for a kiss. Their lips touched for mere seconds before Faith withdrew to gauge her reaction. Another look of surprise was on Kate's beautiful features, but there was also a sign of desire there too, Faith was sure.

A heart thumping track twice the speed replaced the song as it finished. Faith dropped her arms but caught Kate's hand and tugged her up the stairs to where she had set up a table with drinks in a dimly lit corner where no one would disturb them. She gave Annie, the bartender, a thumbs up before pulling out the chair for Kate. When she had pushed her in and seated herself opposite her, Faith looked up uncertainly.

"Let me guess. There is no problem I was needed for." Kate watched Faith take a sip of her drink with unsteady hands. Again she was surprised, she had never known Faith to be nervous in a social setting. The legal process, yes, but not in a club where she was in her element.

"Yeah. Feel free to leave anytime." Faith put down her drink and fiddled with the straw.

"After all the trouble you've gone to I would like to know why." Kate took a sip of her own drink. She didn't know what it was, but god, it tasted good.

"I wanted to show you that I like you because of you, Detective Kate Lockley, not because you're blonde, not because I can't have someone else and not just to get in your pants. You're here because I want you to be here with me. I want to be here with you," Faith said forcing herself to look at Kate.

"So what do you expect me to do?" Kate asked, not sure what Faith was asking of her.

"Whatever you feel like. But a good start would be to forgive me." Faith lips pouted.

"You're forgiven," Kate laughed unable to resist the expression. "So, how did you get the terrible two over there to help you?" Kate pointed to Alex and Tammie curled up on one of the couches in the opposite corner half watching them.

"Couple of winks and trading on Tammie's romantic nature." Faith waved to them and they waved back smiling. "When she explained you seemed to have the wrong idea about me and B things started to make sense. You already thought I wanted to be with B before we talked that day. You got it all wrong, Kate. And liking you has nothing to do with what colour hair you have. It was just a comment I made. But don't dye it, I like it the way it is." They both smiled at the joke. "Hell, if Cordelia had been blonde you might have jumped to the conclusion that I like her too." Faith winked glad Kate was at least sitting here listening to her. She took another sip of her drink.

"So you don't want to be with Buffy?" Kate watched her carefully.

"No. I did once, but I realised there's someone else I'd rather be with. Another blonde actually." Faith smiled. "I just found out she's a good kisser too."

"Did you now?" Kate returned the smile hesitantly.

"Uh-huh." Faith was more confident now. They watched each other for long moments. Faith could see Kate going through her choices. She waited while the blonde mulled over what to do next. Finally she couldn't stand it anyone. "Don't fight it, Kate. Do what your heart is telling you. You know you can't resist," she said with a smile. Tammie talked her into using that song and when Faith heard it, she could picture her and Kate dancing to it, so she picked it.

"Dance with me?" Kate stood and offered her arm to Faith. The Slayer gave her a questioning look before she stood. Kate grasped hold of her and wrapped her arms around her. Faith immediately pulled her into an intimate embrace and started moving to soft beats floating up from below. In the dim light Faith searched for blue eyes and found them locked on her face.

"You want this, DK? Because if you don't I'd rather you tell me now before we both make fools of ourselves." Faith asked, the confidence being replaced by fear. Kate drew her as close as she could and placed her chin on a warm shoulder. They moved to the music feeling the warmth that they were sharing before Kate drew back again. She waited until their eyes had reconnected.

"You're no fool." Kate leaned down and let her lips brush Faith's. They both pulled tighter on their holds as the kiss deepened. Having never kissed a woman before Kate marvelled at the softness of Faith's lips but that was before Faith's tongue started to seek a place between her sealed lips. She opened them up and a warm tongue thrust in gently. As she felt Faith exploring her mouth, her back hit the wall. The tongue drew away and she moaned softly in disappointment.

Faith stood with her hands on the wall either side of Kate and her eyes were boring into her own. "I'll take that as a yes."

"Take it any way you want." Kate shot back and prepared to be attacked by a pair of sexy lips.

"As long as I can take you any way I want," Faith commented before dragging her teeth on Kate's bottom lip.

"Someone's found their soulmate," a singsong voice said from behind them.

"Go away," Faith growled recognising Tammie's voice.

"Always said they were a couple." Alex's voice joined in. Tammie's chuckle could be heard as they thankfully left the new lovers alone.

"I'm not a one night stand?" Kate asked for the first time thinking about what she was doing.

"Not unless you don't like it," Faith's voice turned low and husky.

"Not an issue." Kate grabbed Faith's body and brought her hard against her. "I could get used to this." They exchanged heated kisses for minutes before Faith led them over to the couch vacated by Tammie and Alex.

"Do you believe in soulmates?" Faith asked taking Kate's jacket off.

"Not really."

"Not for me either."

"But with all the things I've learned in the last year, I wouldn't be so quick to rule it out," Kate teased.

"Wouldn't that just be right. There's demons, Slayers and soulmates." Faith chuckled shaking her head.

"Whatever. I think as long as people are happy-"

"It's wicked cool," Faith finished wanting the conversation to be over. She ducked her head and touched Kate's lips again. She always knew it would be worth the wait.

As they explored their newly found attraction Kate thanked the anonymous source that had phoned in the information that started the undercover case. Otherwise she would have never found out she liked dancing…in a lesbian club…with a sexy Slayer...maybe even her soulmate. Yeah right, her cynical mind told her. But then again, didn't she say that about going into a gay club?

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END
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