STEPPING STONES
(Sequel to Merely Mortal)
By Eos
(dewdrop@mochamail.com)

PAIRING: F/K

RATING: R for sex, language and angst.

DISCLAIMERS: Faith, Kate, & all other Mutant Enemy characters are not owned by me. However the rest are entirely my own creations.

SPOILERS: Everything up to "Disharmony" is fair game. Also spoilers for the Buffy episode "The Body."

SUMMARY: Continues on from Merely Mortal. Faith and Kate have to deal with new aspects of their relationship including an ex-lover, nosy neighbours and a few old friends. And there's a few demons in there as well :)

NOTES: This is the sequel to Merely Mortal and if you haven't read it, some of this story isn't going to make much sense.

In this time line I'm changing Kate's part in REPRISE/EPIPHANY. Because she is with Faith, none of it happened to her. Just pretend Angel saved someone else after his epiphany.

Thank you to all those that gave me feedback for Merely Mortal. Please keep the feedback coming. 

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

CHAPTER ONE

"Alexia, get out of there," Faith said, frustrated with the Golden Retriever puppy who was hiding behind the couch. She looked at the chewed stake in her mouth and sighed. "Give."

The dog saw the advancing human and scampered into the bedroom. Faith ran after her smiling, knowing she was only encouraging the puppy to play. They ran around in circles before Faith finally caught hold of an end. Then a pair of fangs clamped down on her hand.

"Ouch, lucky you ain't a vamp, otherwise I'd be staking you," Faith threatened still smiling. Where was Kate when she needed her? Her lover was out doing the weekly grocery shopping and since Faith never bought healthy things, Kate did the shopping for both apartments.

"Grr," Alexia growled and shook her head with the stake still in her mouth.

"You want to play, huh?" Faith resumed her battle with the dog. "I suppose there's no point in trying to get that stake back. But that's the last one, I'm telling you." This was the seventh stake the puppy had chewed up.

They ran around until Alexia tired and flopped down near the couch. Faith collapsed next to her and rested her back against the piece of furniture. That was how Kate found them when she opened the door.

"I hope you still have some energy left for me," she said as she placed her armful of shopping bags on the floor. She greeted Alexia's excited hello and then bent down and gave Faith a quick kiss.

Faith was forever amazed how her heart sped up every time she saw Kate. Though they had been lovers for three months now, it still felt new.

"Never fear, I'm always ready for some action with my other favourite blonde," Faith said puffing out her chest and flexing her arms.

"Right," Kate laughed as she walked into the kitchen with her purchases.

Faith followed her. "Want to go to a movie tonight?"

"Are you offering to pay?" Kate asked after none too subtly slapping the grocery receipt on the bench.

The Slayer picked up the bill and pulled out her wallet from her pocket, depositing the amount on the bench. "If you're good I'll even throw in a jumbo sized popcorn."

"If I'm good?" Kate raised an eyebrow. "And don't I rate a proper meal?"

"Friday night, it's going to be busy."

"That's one lame excuse for not taking me out to dinner," Kate chuckled. "I get to choose the movie then."

"As long as has it at least one fight scene and doesn't have subtitles I'm game." Faith trailed her finger down Kate's arm. "You're always good," she whispered hotly in her lover's ear and leaned in for a kiss.

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

They emerged from the darkened theatre and stepped into the lobby of the movie complex. Faith threw the popcorn bucket in the bin and turned to find Kate staring across the lobby.

"Kate?" Faith asked gently taking her by the arm. She looked up and noticed a couple striding deliberately towards them.

"Kate, didn't think I'd ever run into you again," the handsome man said smiling. Faith sized him up; six feet, well muscled and gorgeous. But the thing that struck her the most was how he was checking Kate out.

"Colin, it's been a long time," Kate said also smiling. At least she wasn't checking him out, Faith thought relieved.

"Too long. This is Rachel." The beautiful woman next to him shook both Kate and Faith's hands.

"Ah, the sister I that always seemed to never meet," Kate chuckled. If she had been looking at Faith, she would have noticed her lover's eyes narrow. "This is Faith."

"Nice to meet you," Colin said charmingly and gently took Faith's hand to give it a shake. Faith's eyes narrowed more when Kate didn't introduce her as her as partner. "We're about to catch a movie, but I would love to catch up with you sometime."

"I'd like that too, give me a call."

"Same number?" Colin asked stepping into Kate's personal space.

"Yes, though you know me, always busy," Kate chuckled, only now catching the look being shot by Faith. "And I've just started seeing someone, so that is where most of my time is spent these days."

"Oh, well I hope he knows he's a lucky man." The handsome Colin looked disappointed, Faith snickered silently.

"I'll see you around," Kate said nodding. She could feel Faith's tense body beside her and quickly worked her way through the lobby and out onto the street.

"So how long were you two together?" Faith said once they settled in the car.

"Long enough to sleep together," Kate said looking over at the dark expression on her lover. "He broke up with me, but I was far from heartbroken."

"He was keen to see you again," Faith observed not liking the situation one bit. "Anyone who lets you go is an idiot."

"Faith, while I'm flattered you are jealous of this man-"

"Jealous! The only reason I would be jealous is if you were interested in him." Faith looked over at Kate. "And you aren't, right?"

"No. Of course not." Kate sighed and started the engine.

"Then why did you ask him to give you a call."

"Because I would like to know what he is doing with his life," Kate said forcefully. "Just because we are ex-lovers doesn't make us enemies."

"Why did he break up with you, anyways?"

"Because he met someone else."

"He screwed around on you, that bastard!" Faith punched the dashboard.

"No, he didn't cheat on me. He came to me and told me that he didn't think we were working out and I agreed with him. We were more friends than lovers. So he left and we stayed in touch for a while but he moved out of the state."

Great, Faith thought, an ex-lover with integrity. Out loud she said, "He was still checking you out."

"I have no interest in Colin, or anyone else. Even if he asked me on a date, I would say no. We're dating, Faith. I don't want to be with anyone but you."

"Good," Faith said and looked out the window. "What about a quick roll in the hay with him?"

"What did I just say?" Kate asked angered by the accusatory tone. "No date, no sex, not even a kiss. I take it you've never been friends with any of your ex's."

"Hell no. Ex-lovers can't be friends. It doesn't work that way."

"Yes it can." Kate shook her head as she pulled up at Faith's apartment. "I have no intention of sleeping with him, Faith. I would never cheat on you. Besides I'm not attracted to him any more."

"Bullshit!" Faith reached for the door handle.

"Are you calling me a liar?" Kate asked tiring of Faith's tone. "Are you still attracted to Buffy?"

"B and I were never lovers, and never would be."

"That didn't answer my question." Kate raised her voice.

"Yes, I still think B is sexy. But I see her as a-" Faith stopped when she realised where her words were headed.

"See. You can be friends with people you have been attracted to. Colin and I never talked about marriage or even being together far into the future. It was over years ago."

"Yeah, I bet he doesn't see it that way," Faith scoffed.

"Do you trust me? Because Faith, I promise you that I will never, ever cheat on you." Kate reached across and laid her hand on the girl's thigh.

"I really want to believe you," Faith whispered looking in Kate's eyes.

"Then believe me. I love you so much and it would torment me to lose you over something like this. I don't need to go looking for pleasure, you provide everything I need." Kate rubbed the leg and reached out for her hand.

"Everything?" Faith asked suddenly unsure.

"Well, obviously not everything. I mean you're not someone I want to talk to about police procedures, but as a lover, as my girlfriend you are all I need." Kate squeezed the hand, and felt a corresponding squeeze.

"Your girlfriend?" Faith asked uncharacteristically shy.

"Yeah, what else would I call someone who I've been dating for nearly four months," Kate smiled and squeezed the hand again. "Come on, let's go inside and out of the sight of our nosy neighbours."

"Mrs McGrath peeking again is she?" Faith asked as she joined Kate heading towards the apartment.

"What would be worse? Her finding out you are dating a woman or that you've been to jail." Kate joked, waiting for Faith to unlock the door.

"I'm not sure, though the old woman might surprise me and be wicked cool with gays," Faith replied pushing the door open.

They were greeted by Alexia, who demanded attention after being left alone for a few hours. After they settled down with the puppy snuggled between them on the couch, Kate looked over to Faith.

"So we're five by five with this?" Kate asked watching Faith stroke the thick fur on Alexia.

"I suppose, but I still say he's going after you."

"Okay," Kate conceded, "but I know him and he will back off when I tell him I'm very attached."

Kate picked the puppy up and placed her on the floor before embracing Faith. They kissed gently, Kate trying to impart her love for her into the kiss. The kiss quickly turned passionate. Faith stood and led them into her room and into bed.

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

The next morning Faith opened her eyes and peered into a pair of big brown ones.

"Alexia," Faith moaned, "you little scamp. We sleep in on Saturday's, don't ya know that."

She shooed the puppy away with her hand, but the puppy grabbed hold of it sensing a game was on. Beside her, Kate stirred and shifted her legs.

"Get out of here," Faith hissed as the puppy stared at her in puzzlement. "I have to remember to keep some biscuits in here to bribe you."

"Bribe me?" Came the mumbled response from Kate.

"Not you, the dog. Why can't she wake you up for a change." She picked up the puppy, something that was getting harder to do because of the puppy's growth, and placed her on Kate.

"Hey!"

"Now you know what it's like," Faith giggled before slipping out of bed and into the bathroom.

"Alexia, down," Kate commanded. The puppy obediently jumped off the bed. "I didn't need a bribe," she said slipping into the bathroom with her lover.

"It must be the cop in you. You get that 'don't mess with me or you're in trouble' tone in your voice."

"Yeah, and not that 'I'm going to stake you' threat in yours," Kate joked and felt a light slap on her stomach. Kate laughed, "Admit it, you're just a big softie that doesn't want to get tough with a dog."

"I can get tough…except when she makes this sad little face," Faith said making Kate laugh harder. "Hey, you're not the big tough cop either. Who's the one who takes a photo every time she does something cute."

"Well, she won't be a puppy forever."

That was true. Faith didn't realise how quickly dogs grew. In just a few months, Alexia had almost grown out of the basket she had been brought home in. The vet Faith had been taking her to announced Alexia a very healthy and normal puppy much to Faith's delight just a few days ago. Maybe her luck was changing with those lives she protected.

Kate was the one who was training Alexia. She had found several Internet sites and bought various books on the subject. So far things were going well. Alexia was house trained, and would behave when taken for a walk. The only thing that still frustrated them was her talent for finding Faith's stakes. Kate's only response was, 'at least it's not the furniture.' Faith would love to let the puppy loose in Kate's apartment just to see what damage the little scamp could do there, but they had decided that it wasn't wise to keep moving her around. If Faith was working into the early hours of the morning, Kate would stay at her apartment and look after the puppy's needs. 

Alexia had become part of the family from day one. Faith and Kate divided up the work and the puppy responded accordingly, treating both with respect a leader deserved. Though, Faith was the favourite. Hence the waking up in the morning. It was Alexia's signal that she was ready to start the day. Since the puppy had come into her life, Faith's exercise routine had changed to include her. They would go running in the morning if Faith had time.

Kate had watched one morning as the puppy and the Slayer played in the living room. The expression on the girl's face coupled with the sight of the two bonding was one of Kate's favourite memories. She had been worried at first how Faith would handle this new responsibility, but surprisingly Faith was a patient teacher and a gentle master. It helped that Alexia had a great temperament. She barked only when she needed to, didn't snap or bite apart from the normal puppy biting, and was always wanting to please her owners.

If the last couple of months were any indication, Kate knew that having the puppy around was good for Faith. It seemed to calm the girl down and even made her more cautious in her slaying. When she went out patrolling, she always vowed to come back for Alexia's sake. While slightly miffed that she didn't warrant the same promise, Kate knew it must be easier to express her feelings towards a creature that would never reject or judge her, than someone who knew her past. Deep down they both knew Faith was speaking to both Kate and Alexia when she promised to return.

"So what do you want to do today?" Faith asked throwing water on her face, trying to shake the sleepiness out of her eyes.

"It looks like a nice day. How about a car trip? Take Alexia and head for the hills."

"Sounds wicked cool." Faith moved into the bedroom and started getting dressed. As she finished the phone rang. "I hope that's not Marcus to ruin my day with a job," she grumbled. 

Since the time Marcus interrupted them nearly making love for the first time, his interruptions had become a joke between the lovers, happening on average once a month where he would call just as they going to do something. Last time they were about to go down to their pool hall, for an amateur competition that they had entered, when Marcus called requesting Faith's services at the last minute. It pissed her off, but the man had been so good to her she found it hard to turn him down.

"Hello," she answered watching Kate wiggle her hips as she searched for her clothes for the day.

"Faith?"

"Angel." Kate stopped what she was doing and sat beside her. Faith held out the receiver so they could both listen. They had heard Angel was back with Cordelia and Wesley, but that was the only news they'd heard. "What do you want?"

"I…I was hoping we could talk."

"We are talking. And how did you track me down anyways?" Faith felt Kate take her hand and give it a squeeze.

"Giles, actually."

"Yeah and what did he tell you? I'm doing fine, thanks for asking. Too bad you weren't there five months ago."

"I know…and I'm sorry. Listen, I was going through a lot back then and I know I was wrong for what I did, but I want to make it up to you." There was a hopefulness in his voice.

"You are lucky I found someone to help me, you son of a bitch," Faith spat down the phone. "If it wasn't for them I'd probably be back in jail or worse."

"Did I mention I was sorry?" Angel said pleadingly. "Come on, Faith. I gave you a second chance."

"Does everyone know how to guilt trip me?" she mumbled looking at Kate.

"What was that?"

"Nothing. Okay, you want to talk. I'll come by the hotel sometime this week, if that's where you're still at."

"It is."

"Just you though, I'm not there for a social club meeting."

"Thank you. Just like you, I've changed Faith. Give me a chance to explain."

"Yeah. Bye." She hung up and looked at Kate. "That wasn't what I was expecting."

"Me neither."

"You still mad at him?" Faith asked caressing Kate's hand.

"More mad at him for hurting you. From what you've told me I know I misjudged him, well up until the point where he turned you away."

One night Faith had sat down and explained what Angel had done for her in vivid detail after a nightmare involving the vampire and in return, Kate had told her the full story of her history with him. They hadn't spoken of him since. 

"Well, whatever happened he must have done some serious repenting. Cordelia's not the forgiving type. Did I tell you about how she turned the world upside down when she caught Xander and Willow kissing?"

"No, why would she be upset at that?" Kate asked confused. While Faith had told her about her time in Sunnydale, she still had trouble with the various relationships between everyone.

"Xander and Cordelia, together I'd guess for about a year."

"Wow," Kate said. "I can't imagine them together."

"Nor could anyone else. It was a surprise to everyone when they came out of the relationship closet. I think it was one of those love-hate things. Anyway Cordelia's not someone who lets things go without some major bitchin."

"So what are you going to do if he asks your forgiveness?" Kate moved away and began readying herself for the day.

"Forgive him?" Faith asked tentatively. Considering the compassion he showed her, she knew she should.

"That's your choice. He sounds sincere, but you have more experience with his mood swings than I do."

"I don't think I've ever heard him beg before. Oh well, that's not something I want to think about. It's a beautiful day and I'm going to spend every minute of it with my equally beautiful girlfriend." Faith smirked at the wide smile she received for her compliment.

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

Once on the road, Faith took the long route to one of their favourite spots. Alexia was in the back watching the scenery going by. Fortunately the Golden Retriever loved the car and was a quiet traveller. That was, if she was in Faith's convertible. Kate's sedan was a poor second choice for the puppy. The stereo was pumping with a rock radio station.

"Mrs McGrath was watching again this morning," Faith said as she tapped the steering wheel in time to the music.

"And we took my car last night," Kate put in knowing that it was sitting out there all night and now all day. "I hope she isn't going to be a problem."

"She hasn't said anything to me. Evelyn thinks we are just good friends and you're over all the time because you can't resist Alexia." They grinned at each other, knowing that it was partly the truth.

"How many friends stay over as much as I do," Kate laughed.

"Apparently really close ones. She wanted to know how we met. I told her at the police station when one of my friends was arrested. Unfairly of course."

"You have a way of bending the truth don't you?" Kate chuckled again.

"Well, you did arrest Angel," Faith shrugged not wanting to think about him. "When your job is killing things that people don't know about, you get wicked good at bending the truth."

"Yeah, I hear you," Kate concurred. "No, sir, there are no fingerprints. And there never will be because it was done by a demon. Take your pick as to what kind." She imitated the tone she would use with her superiors.

"We're lucky Marcus isn't the curious type."

"I'll say," Kate exclaimed. 

So far the closest they'd come to being caught out was Faith's crossbow laying on the couch when the Anderson's had visited. It was immediately hidden, but not before Josh had seen it. Faith distracted him by telling him they had chocolate cookies and he hadn't mentioned it again.

Faith started singing along with the radio as she wound her way through the hills overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Kate looked at Alexia and the puppy looked back as if to say 'does she have to do that.'



After they had set up a blanket and given Alexia a run, they settled down enjoying the Californian sun.

"I don't want to move if Mrs McGrath has a problem with us," Faith moaned putting her arm around Kate's waist.

"I know, I love your apartment."

"Kate?" Faith asked tentatively, fiddling with the grass under her.

"Hmm?" Sensing Faith's need to be serious she turned and faced her.

"I was thinking last night…" Faith stopped and tickled Alexia on the nose with a blade of grass.

"About?"

"Well, you had to wait for me to open my apartment door and…well…how would you feel if I gave you a set of keys?" 

Faith felt her chin being turned until she was in eye contact with her lover. There was a wide grin on the face opposite hers.

"I'd be honoured." Kate leaned in and gave her a gentle kiss. "Thank you."

"Geez, it's not that big a deal," Faith shrugged off her mushy feelings.

"Yes it is. Don't pretend you wouldn't be hurt if I said no." Kate took Faith's hands in her own. "You know you can be yourself around me, emotions and all."

"Still learning," Faith mumbled looking down again. Her thoughts turned to Colin and she wondered if he was so emotionally repressed. He was probably the epitome of the sensitive new age man. After all, he took his sister to the movies.

"And doing a good job." Kate reached around and pulled Faith into a tight embrace, placing a kiss in her hair.

Still thinking about Colin, Faith only nodded in response. God, she couldn't shake the guy from her thoughts. Thinking about Kate with him naked and in bed. She shook her head and closed her eyes trying to rid herself of that horrifying image.

"What's the matter?"

"You said you slept with Colin." The tone was harsher than she intended.

"Faith, I thought I explained this last night," Kate sighed.

"How good was he?" Faith couldn't help it, she needed to know.

"I don't think that is any of your business," Kate replied trying to keep calm.

"Really? I need to know my competition."

"There is no competition, and I don't like the fact that you would treat me as something to win." Kate stood up making Alexia stop chewing her toy and turn towards her owners.

"I'm not." Faith stood as well. "I just need to know…"

"Need to know what?" Kate spat out. "You know you're the best lover I've had. That should be enough."

"I don't want you to see him," Faith said voicing the thoughts she'd had going around her head for the last fifteen hours.

"I know you don't, but I do and it's my choice. I would never stop you from seeing someone from your past." Kate pointed a finger at the Slayer. "You don't trust me, that's your problem."

"Yes I do." Faith shook her finger back and narrowed her eyes.

"Then prove it. Stop trying to control my life."

"I'm not trying to control it. If anything it's the other way around. Since you became my 'watcher,'" Faith used her fingers to show quotation marks, "you've tried to control my movements."

"I have not," Kate yelled, making Alexia dart towards Faith. Her owner rarely raised her voice. "You only perceive it that way, because you resent the fact that I am keeping an eye on you."

"That's no secret," Faith yelled back. Alexia scuttled away from her as well.

"I told you that it was a trial, all you have to do is tell me it isn't working out," Kate shouted as she took hold of Alexia and then made her drop to the ground.

Faith didn't have a good comeback for that so she switched topics, "And another thing. You have spoken to Buffy behind my back."

"Behind your back?" Kate shook her head. "Since when is speaking to one of your friends illegal?"

"You were talking about me. Buffy let it slip that you had been in touch with each other. What were you talking about, Katie?" Faith saw Kate's anger turn to hurt for a moment at the use of her nickname. "Giving her the juicy details of my mistakes and patrol records. Or were you laughing at my attempts to be a good girlfriend?" The last word echoed through the area they were in.

"Oh, Faith." Kate let her anger slide as the words hit her heart. Realising that Faith was only verbalising all the fears she'd had over the last few months, she softened her tone. "We don't gossip about you. We talk about how I can help you, understand what it is like to be a Slayer. You always seem so reluctant to talk about it with me and there's still so much I need to learn." 

Kate felt her eyes tearing and stepped closer to the girl who was still defensive. She reached out for a hand and while receiving no encouragement, she was allowed to hold it. Wanting so much to pull her into a hug, she knew she had to wait for Faith to respond.

"Love you," she whispered gently and squeezed the hand.

"That was one hell of a 180," Faith said not quite believing Kate's anger was gone. Though they'd had some fights in the past, Faith normally had to run out of the room or the apartment before things calmed down. This time there was nowhere to run unless she wanted to take off in the car, leaving Kate there.

"You don't listen to me, sometimes, you know," Kate said smiling wryly. "I would never try to hurt you, I love you."

"Ex-lovers can make people do crazy things," Faith said trying to let go of Kate's hand. It didn't work.

"I never loved him." The words were spoken quietly.

"Really?" Faith took too much delight in the words.

"Yeah," Kate smiled thinly. "Even then I knew I wasn't in love with him, but he is a great guy and a good friend. I felt comfortable with him, but it's nothing like us. When I look at you I feel fire, passion, excitement. He was dependable, sensitive, caring…mediocre."

"So he didn't set you ablaze?" Faith asked for clarification feeling relieved. Kate's eyes lit up when she was talking about her feelings for her.

"No. And no one sets me ablaze like you. The first time I came to see you, after your confession, it's like I was compelled to. I needed to talk to you again. I told myself it was because you were connected to Angel, but it wasn't. Faith," Kate took the other hand in hers and squeezed them both, "I'm sorry I haven't told you before, but I've been attracted to you since that night. Between then and when you got out of jail, I was with no one. Sure I had a few dates, but no one caught my eye. I can't remember you being on my mind, I was too caught up in my crusade against demons, but I know there was one or two occasions where I thought of you. That day when I came around the corner and saw you on my desk, I knew this was a chance to get to know you. That's why I wanted to help you. That's why I took you in and fed you. I've never cooked for anyone since I lived with Daddy. Oh, I've cooked meals that others have eaten, but never my pasta dish."

Kate stopped and watched as a smile graced her lover's face as the meaning hit her. She pulled the Slayer down to the ground still holding her hands. Facing Faith she continued, "I know sometimes I can be too serious when I talk to you. It's a habit that I slip into detective mode when faced with emotions. I'm sorry I've never told you how you changed my world."

"Go on," Faith said still smiling. The passion with which Kate spoke to her was amazing. As the cop said, she sometimes had as much trouble being emotional as Faith did.

"You offered me a different perspective on this whole demon world. Instead of keeping me in the dark, you were open about it. You never looked at me as this weirdo talking about monsters, but saw a kindred spirit. We were both outcasts; you because of what you've done and me because of what had happened to my father and my career. I was drawn to you like no one before. And when you wanted to spend time with me, I couldn't believe it. I mean, I'm a cop after all."

"You are so much more than that," Faith interrupted quietly.

"Yeah, but I'm older and I thought maybe you saw me as this old woman."

"Never," Faith laughed at the impossible image that formed in her mind.

"So, when Buffy told me you had a crush on me, I started thinking about you differently. Seeing things I'd never seen before. And sometime during our time together I started falling for you. Not just because I was physically attracted to you but because of the wonderful person you are. You are not like anyone else I've ever dated. If you did a type casting of people I've been with, you are way out on your own. I love you for who you are, and I wish you could see that."

There was silence for a few beats before Faith breathed out, "Wow."

"So you see, it's not that I would cheat on you, it's that I can't not want to be with you."

Faith smiled and since there was no response she could come up with, she settled for taking Kate in her arms and kissing her with an intensity worthy of Kate's feelings.

When they broke apart Faith chuckled, "I guess that's our biggest fight yet."

"Let's just put it behind us."

There was a nod from Faith and as they enjoyed the rest of the afternoon, they tried their best to put it out of their minds. Still, for both the fight had opened a gap in their hearts. Faith's words were true, it was their biggest fight, and each had said things that had cut to the bone. 



On their way back to the apartment, Faith indicated she would like to spend some time with the Anderson's that night. Kate wasn't happy with her decision, but accepted it not wanting to get into another fight. After dropping Kate back at the apartment to collect her car they stood there awkwardly.

"I'll get the keys cut and give them to you on Monday," Faith said putting her hands in her jacket pockets. Alexia was waiting patiently to be let out of the car.

"We're not going to be doing anything tomorrow?" Kate asked disappointed. They normally spent the weekends together, making the most of their leisure time.

"Hello girls," a voice interrupted them.

"Hi, Mrs McGrath," Faith greeted grinding her teeth together. Kate acknowledged her with a similar hello.

"It's nice to see you out in this fine weather," the old woman cheerfully called to them as she was strolling around with a watering can. The lovers smiled politely and turned back to each other.

"I'll give you a call when I get back from the Anderson's," Faith said so only Kate could hear. "We can do something. I just thought it might be a nice opportunity for you to see that guy. He's probably called and left a message by now."

"We'll see," Kate responded not sure if Faith was being understanding or sarcastic. Her lover still perplexed her on occasion. Those dark eyes hid her emotions well when she wanted.

"I'm sorry for being such a bitch today," Faith offered, yet she wasn't all that sorry.

"Me too," Kate nodded and glanced over at Mrs McGrath. "I'll hear from you tonight?" Earlier that day she wouldn't have had to ask.

"Yeah, might be late though."

"Doesn't matter how late." Kate smiled giving another glance to the hovering landlady.

"Okay." Faith stood awkwardly waiting for Kate's next action.

"Love you," Kate whispered. She wished she could reassure herself and Faith about the truth in her words with a physical connection, but they were too out in the open.

"You too." Faith saw the longing on her lover's face and pulled her into a hug. "Go and catch up on the reading I know you've been neglecting."

"Bye," Kate said letting go of the warm body and fishing around in her pockets for her car keys. "Bye, Alex." Kate reached over the car and cuddled the puppy to her chest. 

Alexia returned the gesture by cheekily trying to grab hold of the noisy metal objects hanging from Kate's hand. The two lovers laughed at the antics, thankful for a break in the tension.

Before opening the car door, blue eyes locked on brown as the two lovers tried to gauge the mood of the other. Something wasn't right, even after the passionate words of love exchanged during the day. Both of them could feel it. When Kate had looked up after settling into the driver's seat, Faith's back was turned as she saw to Alexia. Reluctantly she started the engine and began backing out. At the last moment she waved to Faith who had been watching her. There was a wave and then she drove away.

"Come on, Alexia," Faith called to the dog as she gathered the dog's things and walked to her apartment. The dog bounded over the car door and followed her mistress to the door. "In you go."

Inside Faith flopped onto the couch and sighed. It was nearly five. Just enough time to take a shower, feed Alexia and head over to the Anderson's before dinner was served. No matter what was on the menu Barbara Anderson always had something for Faith. 

Sitting there, she watched through the window as her landlady climbed the steps to her apartment. Thank goodness she could be open about her relationship with the Anderson's. From the moment they told the couple about their relationship, they had been accepted. Neither Marcus nor Barbara had changed their behaviour towards the couple, save the issuing of invitations that always included both of them. She would be glad to spend time with them that night.

**********************
END OF PART ONE
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PART TWO
**************
When the front door to the Anderson's opened their four-year-old Josh immediately set her upon her.

"Whoa, JD! Let me breathe here," she kidded as the child attached himself to her.

"Did you bring Alex?" The excited child asked as Faith struggled to get into the house and shut the door.

"Not tonight, she's sleeping after a busy day out."

"Where did you go?"

"For a drive," Faith said as she walked into the living room with Josh still attached to her. She gently pried him off and set him down as his mother came and greeted her.

"What a surprise. Long time since I've seen you on a Saturday night," Barbara gushed giving Faith a hug. "Don't tell me you've gone and left that good woman of yours."

Faith looked down at the ground for a moment before smiling grimly, "No nothing like that."

"You can't fool me, Faith," Barbara tsked. "You've had a fight."

"We did make up," Faith attempted a cheery tone.

"Oh, honey," Barbara took her arm and led her into the kitchen where dinner was on the go. Josh left them alone and went to find his father who was working on the car.

"It's not that bad," Faith shrugged, still not accustomed to Barbara's mothering of her.

"Well the look on your face says differently. What happened?"

Knowing she was safe in opening up to Barbara on romantic matters, she faced out the window and responded, "Last night we met one of her ex-lovers. Now if he was a bastard that would be fine, but it turns out he's a gentleman. She gave him the okay to call her. And that's not the worst part. His eyes were all over her."

"And what did she say to this?" Barbara asked sympathetically.

"That she never loved him. Actually she said some wicked cool things about how she feels for me."

"But?" Barbara reminded Faith of her shrink in jail. She was always trying to pry more information out of her, and doing a good job most of the time.

"She wants to see him. Talk about old times. And I want to trust her, I really do. It's just that…" Faith switched her gaze to the kindly expression on Barbara.

"You're afraid she might leave you."

"It's more than that. I guess…I mean I'm not exactly a great catch-"

"I would disagree with that, so would Kate. She loves you."

Faith ignored the comments. "And compared to me this guy sounds like a saint."

"Faith." Barbara had to fight hard not to chuckle. "Would you ever compare Kate to one of your ex-lovers?"

"No. But my ex's are nothing to shout about. I mean there's a quite a few losers in there. Kate is so above them that they can't even be compared to her," Faith replied passionately.

"What makes you think that Kate feels differently about her past relationships. My god, Faith, how can you be so blind to the depth of Kate's feelings for you. And believe me, no one is a saint."

"What if Kate realises that I was a mistake? What if she wakes up and realises she's sleeping with an ex-criminal, who has a tendency for violence and absolutely no future."

"No future," Barbara scoffed, taking a little offence at the comment considering Faith worked for her husband. "What are you talking about girl?"

"Marriage, children, that kind of thing."

"What's to say you can't provide her with those things?" Barbara shook her head as she took a casserole out of the oven.

"Uh, same-sex marriage isn't legal and in case you haven't noticed we don't have the right equipment to make a baby."

Barbara laughed, "No, dear. But there are certainly different ways to get around that these days. Have you even talked about what you want in your future?"

"Yeah, we want to be together."

"What about living together? Sharing expenses? Making a declaration about your commitment to each other?" The woman started dishing up the dinner.

"Well, I offered her a set of keys to my apartment today," Faith spoke shyly.

"And?"

"She said yes, but that was before our fight. And we both take equal care of Alexia."

"That's a start. But you need to talk to her about this. This is important Faith, don't roll your eyes," Barbara admonished lightly. "Talk to her, okay."

The last statement was said just as Marcus and Josh barrelled into the kitchen smelling the food.

"This is a nice surprise, Faith," Marcus said giving her a light hug.

"Where's Katie?" Josh asked noticing the absence. Lately the two were always together when he saw Faith.

"She's having a quite night at home," Faith said looking Josh straight in the eyes. The child could always pick up when she wasn't telling the whole truth and she hoped he didn't see the pain she was trying to hide. Thankfully Josh nodded and impatiently waited for his dinner to be placed before him. 

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

The light on her answering machine was flashing when Kate entered her apartment. She pressed the button and Colin's voice came through the speaker.

'Hi Kate, thank goodness I found your number. I'm afraid we were both in a rush on Friday that I didn't tell you. I've moved back to LA. It would mean so much if we could catch up. I'm staying at a hotel, the Wilshire Royal. Room 317. Give me a call when you get in." Beep.

Kate stood looking at the machine for long moments. She wanted to see Colin, but the image of Faith's hurt expression kept flooding her mind. Finally, she decided to have a shower and a meal before she made her choice.

An hour later she was on her sofa, with the phone cradled in her hand, a hastily written phone number on a piece of paper on her left. Her fingers finally started punching in the numbers. After she was connected through to Colin's room she swallowed heavily.

"Hello?" His gentle voice spoke to her.

"Colin, hi it's Kate."

"Kate, I was hoping I would hear from you." There was a smile in his voice.

"It's been a long time. Five years?"

"Must be. I can't believe we ran into each other at a movie theatre. Must be fate," he laughed lightly.

"Yeah," Kate commented indifferently. Thank goodness he hadn't said that in front of Faith. "I'm free tomorrow, how about we meet for lunch."

"That sounds great, we could go down to Tony's if he's still there."

"I think so, I haven't been for a while."

"Then it's a date," Colin sounded excited.

"Ah, yeah," Kate replied uncomfortably. "Twelve-thirty okay?"

"I'll be there."

"Tomorrow then," Kate said starting to wonder if she had done the right thing.

"Tomorrow. Bye." 

Kate hung up, left with silence in the apartment. She looked over to the TV where a photo of her and Faith was sitting. Marcus and Barbara had insisted on taking the photo when they went over for a barbecue not long after they came out to the Anderson's. The couple were smiling at the camera, with their arms around each other's shoulders. She didn't have any photos of Colin, she thought frowning.

Maybe Faith was right; Colin was looking to date again. Even though he was the one who had ended it, she knew he cared for her more than she cared for him. There were no tears when the end came five years ago and if she lost him as a friend by putting Faith first, there wouldn't be any now. Faith may have been more sexually experienced than her, but she had seniority when it came to at least mildly happy relationships. It was her responsibility to allay Faith's fears and insecurities. That meant not fighting with her over Colin, but that was going to be hard considering the girl's attitude towards the situation. A sliver of guilt worked its way into her thoughts, even though she hadn't done anything wrong

Sighing, she put those thoughts away and picked up the novel she had been reading. Settling in, with only the cushions for comfort, her eyes started looking at the words.

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

Faith unlocked the door to her apartment wearily. It had been a nice evening with the Anderson's but her mind had been on the fight with Kate. Before she left, Barbara had again urged her to talk to Kate about what they wanted in the future. That was something that was too scary to think about. What if Kate told her that in five years time she saw herself promoted to Sergeant with a husband on her arm? To even hear Kate say something like that…she didn't know how she would cope. Kate was her life, her saviour. If she was gone, there would be nothing. Nothing at all.

Alexia poked her in the leg with a ball wanting to play.

"Don't you know it's ten o'clock, you little scamp?" Faith asked smiling at the puppy. So maybe she'd still have Alexia if Kate left. "Don't you go leaving me, okay?"

The dog poked her again and Faith relented, taking the ball and giving it a pull. The puppy growled and Faith growled back. The game was on for the puppy. Alexia darted and threw her weight around as Faith tried to take possession of the ball. Twenty minutes later, Faith had worn her out. Sleeping on the floor with a horde of toys around her, the puppy didn't hear Faith sneak into the bedroom and shut the door.

Dialling the number, Faith settled back on the bed and waited for it to be picked up. One ring, two rings, three rings.

"Hello?"

"Hey." She couldn't help but smile at the sound of Kate's voice.

"Hi. How was dinner?" Kate put her book facedown beside her.

"Five by five."

There was an awkward silence.

"So," Kate breathed out happening to glance at the photo on the TV. "You were right. Colin called and we made a time to meet for lunch. It will take an hour at most. You want to do something tomorrow?"

"Um…" Faith couldn't think of anything to say as all her effort had gone into trying to breathe normally.

"Faith?" Kate asked her guilt growing.

"Maybe it'd be better if we just spent the day doing our own things. I have some things I need to catch up on," she said after a long silence. "Have a good day tomorrow. Talk to you soon." 

She slammed down the phone and pulled a pillow over her head as she let out a long cry. She could hear the phone ringing, but ignored it. It stopped and her cell phone started ringing. She ignored that too. She was sure if she had an answering machine, Kate would have left her a message.

Silent tears coursed down her cheeks as she rocked herself to sleep.

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

Kate lay in the dark, still on her sofa, looking up at the ceiling. It was an hour and a half since Faith hung up on her. All she wanted to do was hear her voice, telling her that she was okay. Her mind wandered, thinking about what her girlfriend was doing right now. Was she sleeping peacefully? She didn't think so. When Faith was upset she normally used her slaying as a means of escape or she would sit in the dark, like Kate was doing now.

Not being able to stand the gulf that separated them any longer, Kate pulled her shoes on and grabbed her car keys. 

At almost twelve, she rolled up and parked next to the apartment. Quietly as she could she entered the courtyard and walked to Faith's door. There were no lights on inside and no noise. Knocking on the door, she immediately heard Alexia wake and move around. The dog scratched the door, but there was no sign Faith had heard her. Knocking again, she wished that she did have a set of keys. Alexia barked twice, anxious to see who was visiting. As Kate was going to knock again, a light came on in Faith's bedroom and seconds later the door opened.

They stared at each other for a moment, before Kate stepped inside and fell into Faith's arms.

"Are you okay?" Kate asked feeling Faith shaking. She pulled her head back and her heart broke as her lover held her tightly sobbing. "Come on." 

She led them into the bedroom and shut the door on a groggy Alexia. Faith's ragged appearance coupled with the rumpled, but not turned down bed, tugged at Kate's already fragile emotions. The girl hadn't even bothered to get undressed. Letting go of the still sobbing girl for a few moments, she pulled down the covers. Then she turned her attention back to Faith and tugged up her top. Faith lifted her arms and allowed herself to be undressed.

"Did I wake you?" Kate asked gently as she pulled Faith's jeans down. 

"Kinda," Faith whispered her first words since Kate had arrived.

"Yeah, I can see how settled down you were for the night." The joke did the trick as a snort came through the sobs. "I couldn't sleep either and I never even made it to bed."

The words seemed to calm Faith down as she climbed into bed, watching the blonde divest herself of her clothing. When she crawled into bed they came together and held each other tightly. Kate gently rubbed Faith's warm skin, showing her affection with long caresses.

"I really want to go tomorrow, and I don't want to give in to your demand." Faith made a noise to protest, but a finger across her lips quietened her down. "It was a demand and I didn't like it. But, as I was going to say, if you don't want me to go, I won't. One hour that's all I'm going to spend with him. And I promise you, if he indicates he would like to have another go at a relationship I will walk away and never look back. I don't need him in my life, but I do need you. He said he has moved back here and I would like to have a friendship with him, but not at your expense."

"You promise?" Faith asked burying her face in Kate's chest. Her tone wasn't the delight earlier when Kate picked her over Colin, but of fear.

"I swear it, to the higher powers of your choice," Kate quipped.

"Hmm," Faith said lifting her head with a ghost of a smile playing on her lips, "My choice is the god of sex."

"The god of sex, huh? " Kate giggled glad Faith was smiling. "That's who you shout out to when we're making love, is it?"

Faith laughed, forgetting her troubles for a moment. "Might not be such a good choice, the god of sex. Though I don't know who they are, the higher powers that gave me my own powers must be wicked cool. I don't think they're actually gods as such, like they don't control lives, just help the world deal with demons, or something."

"Sounds reasonable."

"Angel said something about visiting oracles, I didn't take much notice. That's wicked heavy though."

"Hmm," Kate responded before they lapsed into a silence, which was neither awkward nor comfortable. 

"You'll come back to me?" Faith asked shakily.

"Always."

"How do you know that?" Faith mumbled into Kate's skin.

"Because I love you more than anyone I've ever met."

"That's just it, though. What happens if you meet someone new?"

"How am I supposed to meet someone new?" Kate joked. "I spend most of my time with you. And in all the years before you I never came across anyone like you."

"There will come a time when you meet someone who will you find attractive," Faith remarked feeling Kate pull her closer as the words hit her.

"I don't doubt it, as I don't doubt there will be others you will be attracted to. Doesn't mean we will fall in love with them. I've never cheated on anyone in my life and I don't intend to start with the most important person I've ever known."

"But what about being with a man, don't you miss that?"

Kate sighed, but Faith was opening up and verbalising her fears and she didn't want her to close down again. "No, I don't. Yes, being with a man is different, but not missed. I love you, not your gender. And to tell you the truth I like being with a female, I wouldn't say I was gay, but I always did have trust issues with most of the men I dated, Colin being an exception. He is the only man I've slept with and still remained in touch. It's not a habit," Kate chuckled.

"I don't want you to go, but I think I need to do this. It's feels like this test, if I fail then my love isn't strong enough."

"That sounds suspiciously like what Barbara would say," Kate chuckled again and pressed her lips to Faith's forehead.

"Caught me red-handed," Faith chuckled along with her. "She said that our love will be tested many times and I need to be strong. It sounded wicked logical to me."

"I agree with her. We've already been tested if you count how many hurdles we had to jump just to be together. The thing is Faith, we are stronger together than apart."

Faith nodded. "I don't like it, but I won't stop you."

"Thank you," Kate said before placing a sweet kiss on her lips.

"I think Barbara was talking from experience." Faith switched topics and wiped away the dry tear stains on her cheek. Kate reached over with a tissue and continued the task.

"I'm sure she was. How long have they been married? It must be coming up to ten years. People never stop growing, Faith, and those you are close to have to accept that growth. Sometimes seeing someone change hurts. Life is in constant flux, it never stands still."

"Now I suspect you are talking from experience," Faith remarked gently lifting her head again and making eye contact.

"I guess I am. There are times when relationships are tested and are broken. I'm sure you know what that is like, if not with a lover, then a friend." Faith nodded as she thought back on an incident that happened to her as a child. "Even our relationship has changed, but so far we've been strong enough to handle the bad things. Hopefully we'll always be this strong."

Faith nodded again, wondering how talking about the Anderson's ended up being about them again. She put her head down on Kate's breast feeling the warm skin under her cheek. It had been a long night and by an unspoken agreement they both settled down to sleep.

"Love you," Kate whispered after the light went off.

"Love you," came a whispered reply follow by a soft kiss upon her breast.


CHAPTER TWO


When Faith came back from taking Alexia out for a mid-morning jog, Kate was gone. In her place was a note left on the pillow.

'All day I will be thinking about you. If you were to drop by my apartment for dinner I think I could rustle up some pasta. Did I mention that I love you? Always. K.'

Faith smiled as she read the note another couple of times.

"Mommy's gone," Faith told Alexia as the puppy searched the apartment for her. "It's just you and me, scamp." Alexia looked at her then turned and flopped in her basket after her jog. "Oh, come on, Alex. You have to have more energy than that."

The dark eyes looked at her a moment longer than fluttered closed. Faith snorted then went to grab some breakfast. When she opened the cupboard there was a surprise waiting. Kate had bought her favourite cereal. Hungry from her exercise, she poured a bowl and sat down to eat.

There were several things she could do to keep her mind off Mr Handsome and her cop having lunch. Angel Investigations might be quiet, then again demons didn't care what day of the week it was. But Cordelia might and she would consider herself lucky if she didn't run into her. 

"What do you think, Alex? Shall I go down there today? Am I ready for that?" She didn't even warrant the puppy opening her eyes. "I might as well get it out the way. Watch Soul Boy grovel."

Mind made up, she grabbed her keys and turned to Alexia.

"Want to go for a ride?" The puppy's head shot up, hearing the word 'ride.' "That's right, we're going to see a vampire. He's got fangs, just like you."

Alexia jumped up, wagging her tail and keeping close to Faith as she locked the door and walked to her convertible. Without being told, the Golden jumped into the backseat and settled down.

The only time Faith had been to the Hyperion was the day she got out of jail. She remembered it clearly. Angel had told her about his move a few months beforehand and offered a place to stay if she did get early parole. So, when she showed up she expected to have at least one friend she could count on. Not so. Angel had come down to see who was at the door, opened it, told her to go away and locked it again. No amount of pounding had made him change his mind. 

She had scoured the area looking for a way in when she noticed a poster on one of the walls. It stated that Angel Investigations had moved locations. So she had motored on to the new address to find Cordelia, Wesley and some other dude slumming it in a small office. They told her Angel had fired them and they weren't willing to help. She couldn't remember Cordelia's exact words, but they had been nasty. That's when she had turned to Kate. The detective had tried to make contact on her behalf to both Angel and Angel Investigations, but that hadn't worked either.

Now looking at the hotel, it didn't seem any different.

"Come, Alexia," Faith commanded pocketing her keys. 

She put a leash on the dog, and walked up to the front door. It was open so she entered. She was relieved when the lobby was empty. Alexia, excited at being in a new place with new smells, took Faith on a tour of the room.

"Angel!" She shouted as Alexia found something interesting under a chair. To the dog she murmured, "You better not be chewing something you shouldn't."

As she was about to shout again, Angel descended the stairs.

"Faith, nice to see you," Angel smiled. Angel smiled? Faith stared at him.

"Can't say the same," she shrugged and tugged on Alexia's leash to dislodge her from sniffing under the chair.

"And who is this?" Another smile graced Angel's face.

"Alexia De Silva. And you are talking to Faith De Silva. My father's last name." Faith smiled, encouraged by Angel's attitude. Though she was shattered by Angel's rejection, he had done so much for her. She couldn't hate him, she just wanted to watch him squirm.

"Your father," Angel echoed. "You found him?"

"Not exactly. But I'm not here to talk about my family tree. You said you wanted to talk, so talk."

Angel took a seat and offered Faith one. Faith unleashed the puppy to let her go exploring.

When she had turned her attention to Angel, he started explaining, "When you came to see me, I was in the middle of a crisis involving Wolfram & Hart. They haven't stopped trying to get me out of the way. Only this time they used something more potent than you. And it worked. Like you, I had to come to the edge to realise what I was doing." Angel looked up at her earnestly.

Faith felt the words sounded rehearsed, but Angel wasn't the most eloquent creature. "And?"

"I'm sorry I turned you away, but the shape I was in I wouldn't have been any good to you."

"You went all Angelus again?" Faith stared.

"No, not Angelus. You know what it's like. Always fighting that darkness that tempts you, the power it promises, yet knowing you are crossing that line."

"You gave in to that?" Faith asked beginning to see why Angel turned her away.

"It's more complicated than that. If I had let you in, you would have been caught up in something that may have been too much of a temptation for you. I certainly couldn't have held you back. And it was something I needed to do alone."

"That's why you fired your gang," Faith said before calling for Alexia to come back to her.

"Yes."

"And you're back with them?"

"I'm working for them," Angel smiled wryly.

"Now that I'd like to see," Faith chuckled. "That was Cordelia's idea of punishment?"

"No, I bribed her with clothes." They smiled at each other, the joke stirring a familiarity between them.

"Geez, you sure are chipper these days," Faith snorted.

"Yeah, well at least I didn't get a dog," Angel smiled nodding towards where Alexia was wagging her tail while sniffing around the counter.

"I have some generous neighbours," Faith shrugged.

"So you are doing well?"

"Yeah, still have another two months of parole to go, but I don't see that being a problem. Parole Officer's a bit of a loser though. Have this wicked cool apartment, even nicer than Cordelia's place but I don't have a ghost."

"Giles said you've been slaying?" Angel asked as they both settled into the conversation as though they were old friends.

"Yeah, I check in every fortnight, just to keep the Council happy."

"I'm proud of you," Angel said giving her another smile.

"Not really looking for your approval, but thanks."

"And your job?"

"Alexia come," Faith shouted as the puppy started chewing on the stair banister. Guiltily she moved away and bounded onto another part of the lobby. "Sorry about that. I work as a security guard for this wicked nice dude. He did some jail time when he was my age and helped me out with a job. His four-year-old son is my video game buddy. It's so great, the whole family has taken me in and made me part of it. I can't believe how lucky I've been."

"Do they know about demons?" Angel asked leaning back in his chair and intently watching the puppy with an unconscious smile.

"No, and I hope they never do. They're just normal people trying to live the American life. Marcus only started the company a year ago, but it's going great. I think if I wanted I could even put in for a promotion, but I'm happy where I am. It gives me time to slay." Faith stopped and looked at Angel. "I'm supposed to be mad at you, not sharing."

Angel turned back, "How do I make it up to you?"

"Shit!" Faith laughed, "I didn't expect that." She thought for a few moments. "I don't think you need to do anything for me. But I guess it wouldn't hurt to have a favour or two up my sleeve if I come across some bad-ass demon that doesn't want to die easily."

"I'll be there," Angel said sincerely.

"That's what you said last time," came the sharp reply.

"I'll be there if I can," Angel amended.

"Yeah, I can deal with that." Faith held out her hand and they shook on their arrangement. "But I'm not looking for social visits. Especially not with the others around."

"I can understand that, but Faith, I'm here if you need to talk."

"Thanks, it seems lately just about everyone says that to me. If I need to talk I have so many to choose from, I won't know who to go to," she laughed softly.

"Say hello to Kate for me," Angel said as he stood. Faith stood and stared blankly at him. "Giles said she's been helping you."

"Oh, yeah," Faith replied. "She's been…wicked cool."

"I'm glad."

"Yeah," Faith said again, not knowing what to say to Angel about her lover. She called Alexia over and as she was leashing her again, Angel stooped down to pat her. The puppy growled. "Guess she doesn't like your smell."

"I smell fine," Angel protested.

"You don't smell like a human. Good girl." She gave Alexia a pat for her excellent senses. "You have my number, that's enough. If you come visiting don't expect to be invited in."

Angel nodded and walked Faith to the door. They gave each other one last look before Faith exited.

"Wasn't too bad, huh?" Faith told her company as she peeled out of the parking space in the car.

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

Tony's was a café that Kate and Colin frequented during their five month relationship. The place looked like it hadn't changed since she was last there about three years ago.

When Kate arrived Colin was already sitting down, his eyes scanning the entrance for her.

"Hi," he said, standing up as she reached the table and giving her a kiss on the cheek, which Kate reluctantly accepted.

Kate studied her ex-lover with a passive expression. Even on a Sunday he was dressed in a suit, sans tie. His dark hair was shorter than she remembered and his skin was paler, probably from being out of the Californian sun. Apart from that he appeared the same, although remembering her words the night before, he must have changed in some ways.

"These are for you," he said handing her three long-stemmed red roses. Kate took them with a smile fondly remembering how Colin treated her on their dates.

"Thank you," she answered putting them aside as she sat down at the table. "So much time has passed. I don't even know if you still work in the courts." Colin was a judicial assistant to a District Court judge when she first met him. He moved away to work in Washington. 

"I've come back to work with a new judge in the Supreme Court. It's going to be exciting work," he enthused. "And you?"

"Moved precincts, and you're now looking at Detective Lockley," Kate stated proudly.

"Always knew that would happen," Colin grinned. "What about your dad?"

Kate looked down steeling herself against the reminder. "He died last year."

"Oh, I'm so sorry, Kate," Colin replied sincerely. Colin and Trevor Lockley met a few times, mainly brief encounters, but had a healthy respect for each other.

"Thanks," Kate acknowledged. "So what else have you been doing?"

"Still busy with my mountain biking. I'll have to find out if my old club still exists here." He stopped as the waitress took their orders. "You?"

"Work takes up quite a bit of time. And my lover and I have a puppy, so she of course demands attention."

"Your lover?" Colin asked surprised, Kate wasn't usually so candid about her about her private life.

"Yes, we've been dating for four months and hopefully many more to come," Kate grinned.

"Do I hear wedding bells," Colin teased, though Kate caught his expectant face fall after her declaration.

"Perhaps," she gave another enigmatic smile. "We're not even living together yet, though I see that happening before the end of the year."

"And who was this girl you were with on Friday?"

"Faith." Kate had decided to keep in the closet with Colin. If he was working in the courts, then rumours may spread and while she was fine with people knowing she was with a woman, rumours had a way of distorting. "A good friend of mine."

"She must be ten years younger than you," Colin laughed.

"Hardly, she's not that young!" Kate scoffed. "Apart from the age difference we have a lot in common."

"Well, I can tell you've changed in the last five years," Colin remarked, "though you are as beautiful as ever." 

"Are you seeing anyone?" Kate asked not knowing what to say to the compliment.

"No, always looking though." He shot Kate a charming smile. "Rachel is engaged, in fact we were meeting him at the movies Friday. Nice guy."

"Have they set a date?" Kate asked relieved about the change of subject.

As they ate their lunch, Colin filled her in on his family and his job in Washington. Kate caught him up on what other acquaintances were doing. 

"So what does your boyfriend do for a living?" Colin asked as he finished his meal.

Not correcting him Kate responded, "Security guard for a small but quickly growing company. Caters to both private and business customers."

Colin nodded seemingly disinterested in the answer. The waitress came back and both of them declined anything else.

"Thank you for a great lunch," Colin said reaching for his wallet.

"Yeah, it's been great to catch up." Kate reached for her purse.

"No, this is my treat," Colin offered.

"I'll pay my own way." Kate proceeded to open her purse and pull out enough to cover her half of the bill.

"Why don't I get this one, and you can pay next time," Colin protested.

Kate stared wide-eyed at him. "Uh, Colin, I don't plan on a next time anytime soon."

"Oh, come on, we've just met each other again, maybe it was destiny. You can't go out of my life again."

"Colin," Kate sighed, "things have changed a lot in the last five years. While I will always remember our time together, for me it's in the past. I live a very different life to the one I did five years ago, and I can't see how you would fit into it. I'm very happy with what I've built for myself."

"It appears I've come on too strong," Colin nodded. "I'm sorry, Kate. It's just that one of the things I was excited about when I found out I was moving back was seeing you again."

"Yeah, but my lover comes first and I don't think they would be pleased with me spending time with one of my past boyfriends."

"So you let him dictate who you can be friends with?" Colin huffed.

"No, I don't, in fact they know exactly where I am right now. The thing is, I feel you have more than friendly intentions towards me and I," Kate pointed to herself for emphasis, "I am not comfortable with that. I'm very much in love and don't see it changing any time soon."

"Okay." Colin set his mouth in a thin line. "Maybe we will see each other down at the courts."

"Maybe," Kate said nonchalantly. "I've had a nice time, Colin. I hope you find someone who makes you feel as happy as I am."

She stood up, looked at the flowers and picked them up from the table. The first bin she found out of Colin's sight would be their dumping ground. Holding out her hand, Colin grasped it, letting it linger too long, before Kate pulled it back. She nodded to him and walked out of the café without looking back. If she had, she would have seen Colin's angry stare aimed at her.

**********************
END OF PART TWO
**********************



**********************
PART THREE
**********************
All was silent in number 311 when Faith came to a stop outside the door. As she was about to knock, a rock track started from the stereo. From the outside the sound was dimmed, but she could hear the familiar sounds of Kate's favourite band of the month. She smiled, hoping that it was a sign Kate was in a good mood. Faith knocked and waited anxiously for the door to be opened.

"I'm so glad to see you," was Kate's greeting.

"I'm so glad to see you greet me like that," Faith grinned as she came in and flew into Kate's arms. Their reunion kiss was nothing less than an outlet for the past day's anxieties and a confirmation that they were strong in their love.

"This is going to have to wait until later, I'm in the middle of cooking." Kate let go, but Faith took hold of her hand as they made their way to the kitchen. "First I have to apologise to you."

"For what?" Faith asked reluctantly letting go of the hand while Kate worked. She kept close though.

"You were right, Colin was trying to see if there was any chance of a relationship." She turned to the Slayer, who had frozen. "I told him that I was very much in love and that there was no way I wanted anything to do with him as long as he felt that way about me." The smile Faith graced her with made the pain of the last couple of days fade away. "I doubt I will be seeing him anytime soon."

"How did he take that?" Faith wrapped her arms around Kate almost giddy with the news.

"He didn't like it, but I was firm. He wanted to know about who I was dating."

"You didn't come out did you?" Faith asked hoping not. Ex-lover reactions to someone switching teams were hard to predict. She didn't want Colin to think he needed to 'reform' Kate.

"No. The last thing I want is Colin to spread rumours about me. He's back working in the court system. All it would take is someone who doesn't want me around to make a big deal of it." Kate looked at Faith trying to gauge her lover's reaction.

"Yeah, don't want wicked nasty lesbian rumours going around, not with the X-file ones still doing the circuit."

"I'm not ashamed of us," Kate said biting her lip.

"It's okay. I went to see Angel today and never mentioned it. Had the perfect opportunity too, but it's no ones business but ours." Faith let go of Kate again and started setting the table.

"You're smiling, so I take it that it went okay," Kate asked, feeling relieved that Faith took her news well.

"Yeah. We decided that I can call on him if I need him, but I don't think we'll be seeing much of him. Whatever happened, he seems to have come out of it with a new attitude. The Dark One smiled and joked."

"That is surprising," Kate agreed.

"And not only that, but I took Alex along and I swear he was smiling at her playing."

"Is it true he's back with his gang?"

Faith told her Angel's explanation for his behaviour. By the time she'd finished the tale dinner was ready.

Throughout the meal, Faith kept looking down deep in thought. As her last mouthful disappeared down her throat, Kate turned her gaze solely on Faith who had finished minutes earlier.

"Something on your mind?"

"I wish you didn't do that," Faith looked up and locked eyes with her.

"Do what?"

"Know when I'm restless."

"It's my job as a friend and a lover."

"Let's go where it's more comfortable," Faith said standing up and leading them to the sofa. She sat on the edge facing Kate. "Um…"

"You're shaking," Kate said amazed. She scooted over and pulled Faith into her body. A questioning glance showed her concern.

"Five by five here. I need to tell you something important…"

"I'm listening," Kate replied softly feeling panic rising up.

"I have something to give you, but um…it means…oh god, I can't do this," Faith pulled away from Kate and wiped her hands on her thighs.

"In your own time, but if you have a gift for me I will accept it. You give great gifts," Kate complimented.

"I do?" Faith thought some of her gifts were not worth a kiss. Her lover brought her back into an embrace and murmured an affirmative. "I would write down what I want to say, but I suck at that too."

"No you don't," Kate admonished.

"Okay. Start again." Faith psyched herself up and let out a long breath. "What I'm giving you…it's…oh forget it." Frustrated Faith stood up and paced the floor.

"Why don't I guess what it means?" Kate chose levity hoping Faith would respond. "Let's see. Does it mean you love me?"

"Of course." Faith stopped and peered at the amused expression on the blonde. Shaking her head she gave her a smile as if to say 'you always know what to say.'

"But I feel it's more than that. After all you've said you love me hundreds of times." Kate tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. "So, does it mean you are trying to say something else to me as well?" Faith nodded feeling ready to sit on the sofa again. "About the last couple of days?" A shake of the head. "About us?" Kate smiled when she saw the nod. "Good or bad?"

"Good," Faith giggled enjoying their game.

"Okay, I'm doing alright so far. Hmm. About how you feel we are doing?"

Faith reached into her pocket and brought out a tiny wrapped box. "About our future."

"That wasn't so hard." Kate hugged her and turned her attention to the package in Faith's hand. "Anything you want to say before I open it?"

"This is just the first step."

"Okay, I'm guessing that's going to make more sense when I open it," Kate rumbled as she took the box from Faith and ripped the paper open.

Inside was a set of keys joined by a key ring shaped like a dog. Kate picked them up and examined them. One was for Faith's apartment, the other for Faith's car.

"Oh Faith." She dropped everything she was holding as she took Faith's jaw into her hands and placed gentle kisses on her face. Faith moved her head and captured Kate's lips in a long and emotional kiss. When they broke apart, Faith was stunned to find tears on Kate's cheek. "I told you, you give good gifts."

"I wasn't sure…after yesterday…"

"You should trust your instincts more. This is the first step." Kate mulled over the words. "You know we must have been reading each others minds because I told Colin that I saw us moving forward. And I know we're not ready for the next step, but that would be moving in together." Kate held her breath waiting for Faith's reaction.

"So not ready," Faith chuckled. "But I do like the idea of waking up with you every morning."

"This from someone who three months ago couldn't manage to sleep the whole night with someone." Kate gave her a nudge with her shoulder. "I'm not ready yet, either. I've never taken that step officially."

"Who's place would we keep?" Faith asked excited by the thought of actually living with her lover and that Kate's thoughts mirrored hers.

"I have a fondness for yours."

"Well, at least we won't fight about that," Faith said.

"And I can keep the keys." Kate picked them up from where they had dropped and placed them on the table. "Why the car key?"

"In case you need to use it. Alexia likes it better than yours, so if you need to take her somewhere, you're guaranteed one happy dog for your trip."

"Thank you," Kate whispered her heart beating wildly. 

"You know what I'm thinking?" Faith turned seductive. Kate lifted an eyebrow questioning. "The best thing about having a fight is making up. Wanna test out the theory?"

"You read my mind," Kate laughed as they rose. Faith tugged her impatiently into the bedroom where she made sure there was no doubt their fight was over.


CHAPTER THREE


Whoosh! Faith heard the arm of the demon narrowly miss her as she ducked. They'd already been fighting for several minutes, the scaly demon mostly on the defence. Whoosh! Another wild swing allowed Faith an opening. She pressed out with her foot and connected solidly with her opponent. It faltered, but steadied itself before Faith could take advantage.

The game plan was to tire the guy out before going for the kill. Kate had made Faith survey the demon's quarters so they could plan an attack. Having seen the demon already kill another demon for territory, Kate didn't want Faith going in there blindly. Faith silently thanked the cop as the creature became more erratic. Soon, she told herself as she toyed with it.

Faith pulled herself up onto a crate and picked up the battle axe she had hidden there. She jumped down and waited. It didn't take long for the demon to start running. In the opposite direction. No way you're getting away, Faith swore silently. She chased down the demon and caught up to him swiftly as he was slower than her. Coming up behind it, she swung the axe and connected solidly with the demon's back. It fell with a thud and it didn't take long to finish the job.

"Thanks baby," Faith breathed out to her absent lover.

 It was Kate's research that had ascertained that an extremely sharp weapon would be needed to break through the demon's tough skin. Smiling to herself, she swaggered out of the tunnels and back up to ground level.

Since Kate had become her Watcher, they had acquired, with the help of Giles, a good collection of material. Willow helped by giving them a CD-ROM database of books she'd scanned into the computer. Everything was going great, despite her accusations on the weekend. The best thing about having Kate as her Watcher was her police training. Her knowledge of how police trained for apprehending suspects, or going into unknown situations had helped Faith tremendously. Both of them felt more at ease knowing Faith was using several of these techniques. Surprisingly it had also set Faith at ease when Kate went on duty.

The Slayer made her way across the city to where she was working that night. After her shooting, Marcus had protected her, giving her assignments that were low risk. One day, Faith walked into Marcus's office and demanded that she be placed back on the assignments she'd had before. Marcus agreed and Faith found herself working some of the more risky spots in the city. The night of her shooting she'd been on patrol at a warehouse storing hi tech components.

The last few weeks she'd been shuffled around filling in for a couple of Marcus's staff who had taken vacation time. That meant she had been working days for the last month and she was enjoying the change of pace. Her favourite a day shift was at a shopping mall where Marcus had secured a lucrative contract a few months ago. However, Joseph was back from his vacation so she had been moved to the evening shift until the end of the week.

Making sure the axe was tucked away in the car she pulled on her company jacket and made her way across to the security control room. She was hoping there was some trouble, because after the fight with the demon she was riding an adrenaline high.

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

Pulling up in her normal space outside Faith's apartment, Kate was ready to put her feet up. When she made two arrests that morning, she thought it was going to be a good day. That feeling went down the drain when neither would talk. The day became worse when their lawyers turned out to be Wolfram & Hart. On top of that she heard someone who'd she'd arrested a few weeks ago was let out on bail against common sense. Already she was quietly monitoring his activities.

Now she had to wait another couple of hours until Faith finished work. She walked to Faith's apartment, smiling as she pulled out her new set of keys. She'd been alone in the apartment numerous times, but having her own set was like Faith saying 'you're welcome anytime.' 'The first step.' She liked that. 'Our future.' She liked that even more. It was a far cry from Faith keeping her distance because of her dangerous calling in life.

"Kate, hi." Evelyn leaned over the balcony of her second story apartment that overlooked the courtyard.

"Hi," Kate replied looking up from her position near the front door of Faith's. Evelyn was their friendliest neighbour in the 15 unit apartment complex. Besides giving Alexia to Faith, the woman was always trying to find ways to help them. They had spent some time socialising because of their dogs being siblings

"Faith isn't home," Evelyn said, "Alexia has been barking for a while. She's either lonely or hungry."

"I know, Faith's working tonight." Kate didn't explain any further. It wasn't the first time one of their neighbours knew she was there to take care of the puppy. If anything, Evelyn thought it was responsible dog ownership.

"You're left dog-sitting again," Evelyn laughed. "Listen, this weekend there is a barbecue being organised by Claudia and Mark for the whole building. Will you come?"

Surprised the invitation was issued to both of them, Kate didn't answer for a moment. "I'd love to, but I don't know what Faith is doing. I wouldn't feel right just turning up."

"Oh come on, Kate you practically live here," Evelyn laughed. "You two are inseparable. God knows what's going to happen when one of you meets a man." Kate just gave her a grin. "Besides you make the place feel safe. Knowing that a cop and a security guard live downstairs is very reassuring. Christina told me that when Scott goes away on business trips she can sleep easier these days."

"I'd still feel awkward if Faith wasn't there," Kate said diplomatically.

"Then you'll just have to persuade her to come," Evelyn grinned. "Well, it's Saturday night in the courtyard if you want to come."

"Thank you, I'll talk to Faith." Kate turned around and almost ran into Mrs McGrath. "Sorry."

"That's okay dear. I hope you can make it," Mrs McGrath said standing still.

"Yeah." Kate stared back at aging woman. "Will you be there?"

"Just for a little while, can't keep up with you youngsters these days."

Kate nodded hiding her confusion. The landlady was only about twenty-five years older than she was, not exactly a dinosaur. Though considering the rest of the apartment residents she might feel old. She and the maintenance man, Harold were the only people in the block who were over fifty. Everyone else was in their mid-thirties or younger. Two of the apartments had young families and the rest were either young couples or singles.

"I'll see you there maybe," Kate responded keen to get inside. Though her mood had brightened since the invitation, the landlady was starting to irritate her.

"Yes. Bring a date if you wish." The way those eyes bored into Kate's unsettled the cop.

"I might." 

Kate finally moved around the woman and pulled out the keys. When she closed the door and shut out the steely gaze on her, she breathed out loudly. Weird was an apt description of what just happened.

Alexia bounded over, euphoric that her owner had come home.

"Hey girl," Kate greeted eagerly, the puppy lifting her mood immediately. She moved into the kitchen and the puppy followed hoping that Kate was going to go into the fridge. Her brown eyes tracked the blonde and when she did open the fridge she started jumping up and down. "You're just gonna to have to be patient for a few minutes," Kate continued as she retrieved the food bowl.

Since Faith and Alexia had entered her life, Kate's life had turned around. Thinking back on what she said to Colin, she knew what she had told him was the truth, not just a way to convince him to stay away. Colin was a distant memory in her past, a past where she didn't know about demons or have a sexy Vampire Slayer in her life. In five short months, Faith had become the most important person in her life and her relationship with the Slayer was her first priority. She hoped that would always be the way things were.

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

The weather for the apartment block party was perfect, a hot sunny day had changed into a pleasant evening when the sun starting going down. Late Saturday afternoon a crowd started gathering in the courtyard. Claudia and Mark, a married couple in their late-twenties, organised a barbecue twice a year for the apartment block ever since they had moved into the building four years ago. They had been setting up for most of the day; a barbecue was ready to be used, several tables and chairs were transported in as well.

Faith looked out the window at the children playing a game with a tennis ball. She heard Kate come up behind her and a pair of arms wrapped around her waist.

"What's up?" Kate said resting her chin on Faith's shoulder.

"I don't know if I really want to do this."

They had talked about the event on several occasions during the week. Faith didn't want to give up her relative anonymity with her neighbours as it allowed her to move freely without rousing suspicions when she went out during the night and came back at all hours. Mingling with the crowd would change that. It was also going to be a test to hide her attraction for Kate for hours on end while the blonde was in close proximity. Kate had agreed that they might accidently give themselves away. Secretly she was pleased Faith still only had eyes for her.

"We can leave whenever you want. And we can't very well not stay now we are here. It would look bad. Aren't you the one who says we shouldn't get on the bad side of your neighbours?" Kate squeezed the waist gently.

"Yeah. Okay, I guess we better show up," Faith relented. "Just don't go gossiping about me."

"The same goes for you." 

Faith turned her head and grinned. "Maybe I should make up a boyfriend for you, that should fuel some gossip. Let's see…" Faith tapped her cheek pretending to think.

"Faith," Kate grinned lightly slapping her butt. "You do that and I'll tell everyone you're dating a punk rocker who has three kids by three different women. You love him so much you are thinking about moving into his home who he happens to share with all three mothers and children."

"You're evil." Faith twisted around and gave Kate a wink. "Well you are lusting over a man who produces porn movies."

"If I'm evil, you're downright devilish," Kate flirted and captured Faith's lips in a kiss. "You ready to face the neighbours?"

"Another kiss and I'm good to go."

Kate reached around the back of Faith's neck and pulled her in for a sweet and gentle lip lock. When they parted, they gazed at each other for a moment before Faith gathered her leather jacket and pulled it on. She was dressed in her usual attire; black jeans, black sleeveless top and boots. Kate was wearing jeans and a white shirt.

"Think you can keep your eyes off me?" Kate asked seductively though they both understood it was a semi-serious question.

"No, but I'll try. If we catch each other staring too many times, I think we should leave early and do something about our needs."

"Why Faith are you propositioning me?" Kate battered her eyes as she opened the door. Faith stared at her, mouth open and ready to drag her into the bedroom, when their neighbours spotted them. Narrowing her eyes Faith silently promised she would get Kate back for that. Now she was going to have that image in her head all night. Would half an hour of partying be enough to please their neighbours?

Alexia bounded past them as the puppy caught sight of her brother. Satisfied that Evelyn's children were keeping an eye on the puppies, Faith moved forward and into the busy courtyard. There must have been nearly thirty people gathered in the spacious courtyard. Mark was just firing up the barbecue and several women were delivering food to the tables.

For once Faith wished people would look at her and Kate and see a normal couple. She wanted to show her lover off, hold her hand as they stood around talking to others and telling stories of their lives. But not unless everyone accepted them would she ever be able to do such a small thing that other couples took for granted.

In that crowded courtyard she felt lonely. She glanced around for her partner wanting her loving presence by her side. Kate had gone over and was offering her help to the women. Her normal 'fuck them' attitude was tempered by the threat of losing her apartment. If it weren't for Mrs McGrath's nosiness she would walk up and kiss Kate soundly as a way of showing everyone that she loved the cop.

"Faith," a young boy called out. Faith looked over and saw Ricky, a ten-year-old who lived in the building, waving a baseball.

"What's up?" she walked over to him.

"Wanna play catch?"

On a few occasions they had played on the front lawn of the building. It started one day when Faith came back from a run and picked up a stray ball for the boy. She threw it back to him. One throw and the boy was infatuated with her because of her strength. He wanted to know how she could throw so hard, but she'd just smiled enigmatically.

"Uh," Faith looked around at the crowd. "Sure."

Not long after they were joined by some other children who were also impressed with her throwing ability. Faith rolled her eyes as they rated her better than some of the pros. Someone retrieved a baseball bat and they had a game going. Faith kept it under control so the younger players could have a fair go against the better skills of the older kids.

"Not mother material, I once heard you say," Kate laughed as she found Faith still playing a while later.

"I've been with them what, just under an hour. No way would I want them 24/7." She gave Kate a wink.

"It's time to stop. Dinner's ready."

With this announcement the children cheered, dropped their equipment and raced back into the courtyard leaving the two lovers alone.

Picking up the bat Faith asked, "How is it going?"

"Trust you to leave me alone to the vultures. They wanted gossip about you and they wanted it big time. Meanwhile I find you having a grand old time out here."

"Yeah, I'm real sorry about that," Faith joked. "So what's the goss, Lockley?"

"Are you dating? Do you have a brother? That was from a young woman who obviously likes your looks but not your gender. Um…Do you think she would let me drive her car?"

"Yes, no and not in a million years," Faith came closer to Kate. "What did you say?"

"That's her business, no and no way." Kate picked up a couple of balls and a glove from the ground. "But the weirdest one was 'do you think if I hired her to be my personal bodyguard I would have a chance.' A resident's brother seems to have a thing for you. And according to May, her brother has been wanting to ask you out for a couple of months."

"Great all I need is some dude drooling over me all night," Faith huffed oblivious to the amused expression on the blonde. "Maybe you should have spread those rumours about me."

"So, your ego isn't rising off the charts at the moment? This guy is hot for you." Kate teased closing the gap between them and nudging her in the arm. "He's good looking, too."

"Kate, all that matters is you are hot for me, Miss Are You Propositioning Me." Faith smirked and swatted Kate lightly on the butt. "Come on, we better get back to it. But you have to make sure you sit next to me at dinner."

"No flirting with him," Kate joked, strong in her trust that Faith was loyal to her. It was something she had worried about at the start of their relationship. She'd never told Faith, but the way the girl used to sleep around caused her to question her commitment. Having never even seen Faith look at another person, apart from on the television, she was confident Faith had never strayed. However, her insistence at watching every Angelina Jolie movie was becoming annoying.

"I only flirt with a certain blonde who I think is wicked cool," Faith replied just as they reached the entrance of the courtyard.

They were herded to a table where six places were set. Already there was May, her brother, Evelyn and her husband Jackson.

"You can sit next to Mr Hot," Faith whispered to Kate as they approached the table. She looked around but the other tables were already filling up. They were stuck.

Kate did ask she was asked, much to the visible chagrin of May's brother. Introductions were made and Mr Hot was now known as Luke. He told them about himself, but he never knew the person he wanted to impress wasn't even listening to him. Instead, she was trying to start a game of footsies with her lover.

"Faith," Kate turned to her and smiled sweetly, "would you pass the bread?"

"Of course, Kate." Faith smiled sweetly back and continued playing with Kate's leg contrary to her girlfriend's wishes.

"So," Evelyn said as they ate, "are you seeing anyone?" This was directed at Luke who in turn looked to Faith and replied in the negative. 

"Faith?" She looked to see Luke watching her. She ground her teeth together and pretended to be interested in his question. "Are you seeing anyone?"

How do I answer this? "No, I don't have a boyfriend, but I'm not looking. My work is the most important area of my life and dating would just take up too much time." She smiled at him, but her attention was on the hand that just squeezed her thigh. "I have all I need." She willed herself not to look at Kate, but since to see Luke she had to look in her direction, she spared a meaningful glance.

That seemed to dampen Luke's spirits and the conversation moved to other subjects. By the time dessert had come around Luke had moved onto one of the other tables where a group of men were talking about football.

"Not your type?" Evelyn asked leaning over to Faith. Faith just gazed at her. "You can't tell me you're not looking. Something tells me you aren't one to stay celibate for long."

"Not my type," Faith confirmed quietly. "You're right, but I like the freedom I have."

"I thought so, those late nights aren't all from your work are they?" This question was a bit louder and Kate leaned over too.

"What can I tell you, I'm loving life." Faith grinned knowingly. Another squeeze on her thigh told her that she handled the situation well.



The party continued into the evening. The children had gone to bed, but most of the adults were still enjoying the company.

"We have some wicked nosy neighbours," Faith whispered when she found herself alone with Kate.

"I know. Do you want to leave soon?"

"My place or yours?"

"Mine would be safer," Kate said. "Can you wait that long?"

"Hah, I've waited hours, another half hour isn't going to worry me." Faith looked around. "Do you know where Alex is?"

"In Evelyn's apartment. I'll go and collect her, you can wait by my car."

They parted, Faith doing her rounds to say goodnight. Kate climbed the stairs and entered the quiet apartment. She smiled at the sight of Alexia and her brother Ajax curled up together.

"Alexia," she called softly. The puppy raised its head and stood groggily.

"You leaving us?" Evelyn asked coming from the kitchen.

"Yeah, time to go home."

"Actually, I was wondering if Faith's birthday was coming up soon."

"Why?"

"Well, she said something tonight and you can confirm this. She said that she'd never had a birthday party. Is that true?"

Kate wasn't surprised. "Probably."

"Then I'd love to throw her one. Just us and the children, nothing big."

"That's so thoughtful of you. Actually, her birthday is just around the corner. Four weeks in fact."

"Great, that's enough time to plan something. We can decorate her apartment, get a cake…" Evelyn trailed off excitedly thinking about her plans. "She won't be mad if we surprised her would she?"

"I'm not sure," Kate answered. "The better way to go would be telling her just before the party."

"She won't back out?"

"No. She'll probably be thrilled." Kate saw Faith being almost embarrassed when she realised the party was all for her. The girl still had a hard time believing people liked her.

"Good. So can I count on your help?"

"Of course," Kate smiled. "Thank you for this."

"Oh it's no problem, she's a good kid."

Kate nodded before saying goodbye. She took Alexia back to their apartment and smiled as the puppy headed straight for her basket. She locked up and walked to her car.

"Have a nice night, dear?" Mrs McGrath startled her from the shadows.

"Yes, thank you." Kate could see Faith leaning against her car watching them. "You?"

"Too loud for me. Don't understand that music you listen to. My son used to play around on one of those guitars."

"You have a son?" Kate asked curious about the nosy landlady as she never talked about herself.

"Oh he's been dead for some years now. Damn blasted sickness."

"May I ask what?" Kate said inching towards her car.

"He caught it sleeping around, you know. You don't do that do you dear?"

Kate frowned, "No."

"Good. Well have a good night."

Kate and Faith watched the landlady waddle back to the apartments.

"What was that about?" Faith asked as Kate unlocked the doors.

"She had a son that died a few years ago. The way she was talking it sounded like he caught an STD, maybe AIDS."

"Geez," Faith swore. "Did she say he was gay?"

"No. 'Sleeping around' could mean anything. But she's starting to be a little creepy. She just appeared from the dark."

"Maybe she's onto us. I mean we don't know anything about her, then wham! She gives you that story about her son."

"Even if that's true, what can she do? The worst is that we get evicted." Kate's police mind took over from the idle speculations. "She may be a nuisance, but are we really that scared to be outed?"

"No, I just don't want to lose my apartment."

Faith scanned the darkness as Kate pulled out, but she was sure the lady had gone inside. She settled in the passenger seat, glad just to be beside her lover after the evening. It was taxing doing the good neighbourly act. Fighting demons seemed like a breeze compared to it.

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

As Faith headed for the bedroom, Kate noticed a message on the machine.


'Kate, hi it's Colin. I heard about this great exhibition and I thought about you. How about we go and check it out this weekend? Hoping to hear from you."


"Oh god," Kate whispered.

"What's the matter?" Faith emerged from the bedroom concerned. Kate motioned towards the machine so Faith played the message again.

"I specifically told him I didn't want to see him." Anger flashed over Kate's face.

"I know, baby." Faith's mood matched the cop's. "It looks like he hasn't got the message."

"Oh god," Kate said again slinking over to the sofa. Faith helped her sit down and embraced her. "I need to show him I mean it."

"Kate, if he didn't get the message the first time there's a wicked good chance he's not going to get it this time."

"Faith. I shared five months of my life with this man. He is not a stalker. For gods sake, he was the one who left me." Kate looked Faith in the eyes. "I have no idea why he even wants to renew our friendship."

"He wants more than that," Faith argued.

"It was obvious when we met last week that we had both changed. If I met him now, I doubt I would be inclined to even talk to him."

"Maybe he's only just realised what he had back then," Faith mused. If she were stupid enough to lose Kate she would fight to the death for her. "He thinks this is a second chance and he doesn't care if you are with anyone or not."

"He did say something about us meeting again was fate, destiny." Kate peered at Faith, watching for a sign of jealously. All she saw was anger at Colin. "And he called our lunch meeting a date."

"You did the right thing by telling him to piss off," Faith said as she took Kate's hand in hers. "Any more of these phone calls and you should give him a warning about taking out a restraining order."

"That's a bit drastic," Kate replied.

"Kate, you're a cop. You know how these things can get out of control if you don't act quickly. If you don't, I'll go down and give him a working over."

"Don't you dare," Kate commanded.

"Why not? You're not protecting him are you?"

"No. But you are on parole and I don't want you doing anything to jeopardise that. The last thing I want is for you to go back to jail."

"Sorry, forgot about that," Faith said sheepishly. Her parole was going so well, it was just part of the routine to check in with her officer every month.

"You shouldn't. Colin works for a judge and he is well liked. It wouldn't look good for you. So no violence. I'll do it my way."

"Okay. But just so you know, if he ever does something to you, my freedom doesn't matter to me."

"It will never come to that, Faith." Kate sighed and leaned her head on Faith's chest feeling safe. "I should talk to him and make it clear that I'm not interested period. Not even if I wasn't with you."

"Is that true?"

"Of course. I'm a different person now. The events of the last 18 months have changed me forever. You understand what I went through with my father and I don't think I could be close to someone who didn't know about demons. Once you know it changes everything. Sharing my life with someone who I can't talk to about otherworldly things would be impossible."

They sat there in a comfortable silence. Making them more comfortable, Faith pulled Kate closer so she was lying against her chest. She never thought holding someone could feel so satisfying. It was one of her favourite things to do with her lover.

"I thought you were raring to go," Kate said patting Faith's thigh.

"Talking about certain people but a dampener on the evening." Faith caressed Kate's arm. "Want to?"

"I'd like to cuddle," Kate said knowing from experience if Faith asked instead of diving in, she wasn't that horny. Although she also knew from experience it didn't take much for Faith to get into it. "Love you."

"Always," Faith answered not thinking about her answer. She was too concerned about Colin.

Always, Kate thought moving so she was closer to Faith. Is that where this was going? It scared her, but excited her too. She knew that she wanted Faith to be hers until the end of their lives. Thinking about the Slayer with someone else made her feel like throwing up. And from Faith's reaction to Colin, it seemed she felt the same about her. We'll see, she thought smiling into Faith's warm skin above her breasts. One thing she knew; she could stay in these arms forever.
**********************
END OF PART THREE
**********************





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PART FOUR
***************

Faith looked through the glass to the other side. She'd been on that side once. The memories weren't pleasant and part of her never wanted to be reminded of them. She looked up as she saw a tall dark-haired woman walk out between two guards and sit down on the chair. The prisoner's hazel eyes lit up as she recognised the person on the other side.

"Hey Frankie," Faith acknowledged once they picked up the phones.

"Hey Slayer," Frankie greeted. "You still out I see."

"Yeah, doing good too." Faith put the uncomfortableness of the place behind her and concentrated on her friend whom she hadn't seen since the day she got out.

"I'm proud of you, kid. You look real happy."

"Yeah, I have a great girlfriend. Four months and counting."

"Is she as happy as you look?"

"Think so. Also got this wicked cool apartment and a job. You'll never guess what I'm doing?"

"Teaching karate?" Frankie took a not-so wild stab.

"Nah, I'm a security guard. Boss is so cool with who I am, too."

"You are doing well. Congrats."

"Yeah and I have a dog named after you."

"You named a dog after me!" Frankie growled. "Shit. I don't know whether to curse you or kiss you. So what do your neighbours think about you shouting Frankenstein all the time?"

"No, your real name." Faith grinned as the expected look of outrage painted itself on her friend's face.

"You used my real name. You are lucky you are on that side, I'll tell you. Bitch."

"You can call me all the names you want," Faith grinned. "Not gonna change the puppy's name. She's used to it by now. You don't want to confuse the poor dog now do you?"

"Suppose not. But if I ever get out, you are on my hit list you mother-fucker," Frankie snarled. If it were anyone besides Faith, the threat would have been real.

"I found my father," Faith said quietly looking down. She told Frankie the story of the fate the man who gave her life.

"What about his family?" Frankie asked after Faith had finished her story.

"What about it? Nothing I can do for them. Better off thinking whatever they think now." Faith's opinion on the subject had hardened since she'd found out. Kate hadn't pressed her and Faith thought the matter of contacting them was closed.

"You could have a whole family out there, Slayer. Cousins, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews. Maybe even a half-brother or sister. It might be a great surprise to know they have this long-lost relative."

"Or they will probably wish I'd stayed lost. Come on, Frankie, you can't be serious."

"What about wanting to find out about your ancestors? You told me your mother was white trash and her family had been for generations. Don't you want to learn about the De Silvas? "

"So? Like I care who my father's family were. It doesn't mean anything to me," Faith shrugged upset at where the conversation was going. "So, anything new in there?"

"Next time you want to change the subject try to be a little more subtle," Frankie laughed deeply. It was probably a long time since she'd laughed like that. "You should know your heritage, kid. It's where you come from, part of who you are. If you knew about whom your dad was earlier do you think you would have gone down the road you did?"

"It doesn't matter now, I did what I did."

"Or would you have tried to live your life in memory of him, like you seem to be doing now."

"What?" Faith asked confused.

"You've taken his name, kid. That has to mean something. Whether or not you've thought about it, you've already shown you're proud of who he was. Do you have anything of his?"

"No," Faith answered, unwittingly being swayed by Frankie's words. The woman had always made sense to her.

"Nothing your mother kept?" Frankie looked over at the guards who were impatiently waiting. Turning back to Faith she gave her a wink.

"No. Even if she did have anything of his, it's long gone. After she died, I burned all her papers and stuff. The rest I sold."

"I know you're scared, but think about contacting them, they are your family, Slayer. If your woman is as understanding as you make her out to be, she can help you. After all, she wanted to find him for you. Think about it, okay?"

"Okay," Faith yielded as she had done many times before to the convict.

"And to answer your question, it's same old, same old in here. Besides, you don't want to hear about the clink. You're free, you lucky devil." Frankie was tapped on the shoulder from one of the guards. "Gotta go, but thanks for coming. Haven't had a visitor in a long time."

"Will you want to see my face around here again?" Faith asked pretending to be casual.

Frankie chuckled, "As long as you're always on that side, I wouldn't mind the odd visit. Good luck, kid."

"You keep safe," Faith said seriously.

They both hung up and nodded to each other before the guards escorted Frankie out. Faith quickly stood and made her way out, ready to be away from the unpleasant memories.

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

On Monday night, the couple had agreed to baby-sit Josh while Barbara and Marcus went out for a romantic evening. Kate was alone when the couple dropped their son off at Faith's apartment.

"Alex!" The boy cried racing past the door and greeting the puppy.

"Thank you for this," Barbara said giving Kate a bag. "I told him he's allowed to stay up a little later than normal."

"No problem. Have a good time."

"Where's the Hellraiser?" Barbara asked.

"Wouldn't I like to know," Kate laughed not being about to tell the woman Faith was patrolling. "On her way home I hope. She'd wouldn't miss this."

Barbara nodded and said goodbye to her son before she left. Josh was happy to play with the puppy, so Kate sat down and watched their antics. It was a rare opportunity to be alone with Josh and for some reason the thought scared her. For all the teasing she gave Faith, the Slayer related better to children than she did. Of course, Faith still acted like a child sometimes so it wasn't much of a stretch.

Sometime later the Slayer came home and unfortunately she was extremely horny.

"Hi, baby," Faith greeted her with a heated kiss that had them wanting more.

"Yuck," Josh moaned.

They both turned to him, startled at his reaction.

"What's yuck, JD?" Faith asked pulling herself onto Kate's lap.

"Kissing. Mommy and Daddy always do that."

The two lovers looked at each other and burst out laughing. Josh watched them confused, then gave up and turned his attention back to Alexia. Faith settled down in Kate's lap taking the opportunity to soundly kiss her again. When Kate let out a muffled moan they both looked guiltily to Josh. He didn't notice.

"How did you go?" Kate asked softly taking a nibble of Faith's ear.

"I won, the other guy didn't. All quiet apart from him." Faith's hand started tracing the bottom of her lover's breast through her top. "God I am so…ugh," she grunted as her hips bucked against Kate.

"You're telling me! Must have been some fight." Kate was becoming aroused despite the situation.

"Too easy. Need more." The last two words were accompanied by a squeeze of a breast.

"You can't," Kate moaned. It was all the encouragement Faith needed. Her hand slipped under the top and landed on Kate's bra. She pulled it out of the way and started stroking the skin.

"Yes I can," Faith said giving a glance to Josh. "Hey JD, wanna watch a movie?"

The boy turned to her, oblivious to Faith's emotionally charged state and grinned at her. Releasing her hold on Kate, Faith stood up and went to the bag Barbara had dropped off. Faith had asked her to put in a couple of movies just in case he became bored, but now she congratulated herself on her request.

"Toy Story 2?" She asked holding the video up. Josh nodded and ran to the couch. Faith started the video. "Kate and I are just going into the other room. Knock if you need anything, okay? And you know not to play with Alexia unless one of us is around, right?" Faith looked at the puppy, thankful she had never shown any sign of aggression. But just for good measure, she put her on the leash connected to a desk leg.

Josh nodded and waited impatiently for the movie to start. His eyes never left the screen as the couple made their way into the bedroom.

"Faith, we can't do this," Kate whispered as Faith shut the door.

"I need you, baby. I can't wait."

Seeing the desperation in Faith's eyes and knowing they hadn't had sex for a few days Kate caved in. She wanted it badly too. "We need to be quiet."

"Come here," Faith growled and grabbed Kate by the waist, pulling the blonde into her roughly. 

Her hands landed on a firm butt and her lips on soft ones. Backing Kate up to the bed she pushed her lover back and straddled her a feral smiled playing upon her lips. Kate smiled back, loving when the Slayer came out and played. She lay still knowing Faith liked to take control when she was feeling like this.

Faith lifted up Kate's top above her breasts, did the same with the bra and bent her head down to take a nipple into the mouth. She rolled it around with her tongue and felt Kate stifle a moan. She swapped to the other nipple making Kate's hips buck. Knowing that Kate's arousal had joined hers she didn't waste any more time.

As her lips played with Kate's, her hands slid down past the blonde's jeans and pants before her fingers tested the lubrication. Needing to taste she broke off the kiss and moved her head down to Kate's core. The blonde grabbed the pillow from behind her to muffle her groans as Faith took her. Her skilled lover had her climaxing minutes later.

"Thank you," Faith said placing a kiss on Kate's mound before moving her body fully over her.

"No, thank you," Kate breathed out. "Come and sit on me."

Before Faith did as she was told she threw her jacket off, followed by her top and bra. Kate meanwhile stripped her of her jeans and panties. Faith straddled Kate, looking down lovingly at those blue eyes. Touching her own breasts she waited for Kate to touch her. When the touch came she almost climaxed from that alone. But she steadied herself and fell into a rhythm with Kate's tongue and as she went over she grunted out her pleasure between clenched teeth.

"God, that felt so good," she giggled falling on the bed. Kate placed her head on a shoulder and gave her another kiss in reply. "See? I bet Josh is still watching the movie without being any wiser."

"Hmm." Kate agreed happy just to be lying with Faith. The Slayer was right, that had felt good. The stress of the last few days floated away and was replaced with a warmth that was starting to become very familiar to her.

 "Hmm," Faith echoed and felt Kate chuckle.

Finally they emerged from the bedroom, after dressing and freshening up. Josh's eyes were still on the screen and Alexia was quietly chewing on a toy. They quietly slipped next to Josh on the couch and snuggled as the watched the rest of the movie.

As the end credits rolled Faith put Josh to bed in their room and slipped out. Surprising he didn't argue. Hopefully he would sleep for a couple of hours before his parents picked him up. 

"I'm still in the mood," Faith whispered as she sat back down.

Kate sighed dramatically. "After Josh has gone."

"Come on, baby," Faith wriggled her hips and grinned.

Kate just ignored her. To do anything else would result in giving into her lover. Faith squirmed, pleaded and caressed for the next few minutes, but Kate remained strong. Giving up, Faith opened up a gap between them on the couch and turned on the TV. The blonde laughed at the unconscious pout across her lips.

"Finally," Faith cheered when the doorbell rang sometime later. She went to wake up Josh, leaving a chuckling Kate to answer the door.

"Hey JD," Faith said softly shaking the boy's shoulder. "Time to go home."

"Can I stay tonight?" The boy asked his brown eyes pleading.

"I'm afraid not," Faith answered, "your Mom's waiting."

Slowly the boy sat up and held out his hands. Faith scooped him up and carried him out of the room. She then went past Barbara and Kate and put him in the car.

"See ya round," she whispered and held out her hand for a hi-five. She received a tired slap.

Ducking her head out of the car, she stood beside Kate and waved the Anderson's goodbye. As the car disappeared down the street, Faith turned to Kate and gave her a grin.

"Race you to the bed?"

The Slayer didn't wait for an answer, she ran into the apartment and Kate found her lounging on the bed, her fingers tantalisingly close to where she wanted Kate to touch her. Smiling at the blonde, she lifted the top off herself and with an inviting look asked her lover to do the rest. Kate stepped over to the bed and continued the process. For the second time that night Kate stripped Faith naked, only this time she took the time to show her girlfriend how much she appreciated every part of her body.

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

Faith moved slightly so she was on her back. After they had made love again Kate had curled up against her back and they'd fallen asleep. Now awoken by a nightmare, Faith couldn't settle back down.

The nightmares were nothing new. Ever since she confessed and took responsibility for her crimes, her dreams had been filled with horrible images. She'd quietly accepted them, knew them to be a deserved punishment. However, over time they had waned to the occasional bad dream. That had changed tonight. For the second night in a row, she remembered the haunting images her mind had presented her with. 

Shifting again, she threw her arm around Kate trying to concentrate on the comfort her presence provided for her.

"What is it?" Kate woke when Faith groaned loudly.

"Nothing."

Kate could feel Faith tense up further at the question. "Nothing?"

"That's right. Go back to sleep."

"I don't know. You see my lover is worried about something and now I'm worried too." Kate found that Faith was best drawn out if she didn't attack her with personal questions. It only made her more withdrawn and on a few occasions turned her to the one attacking.

"It's nothing."

"If it's nothing then you can tell me so I don't have to worry." Kate lifted her head making out Faith's eyes in the darkness.

"Wicked bad dream." Faith felt Kate move into a comforting hug. "Nothing I can't deal with."

"That's the second night in a row," Kate said, the concern evident in her voice.

"I know," Faith answered surprised Kate knew about the previous night's nightmare. "Do you think my father would have been proud of me?"

Kate drew in a sharp breath at the change of subject. "I'm sure he would have," she answered amazed at how many times she'd asked herself the exact same question of her own father. Faith's voice had been so soft, she couldn't help but feel tears pooling in her eyes. "If he could see you out there, putting your life on the line every night both slaying and at your job, I don't see how he couldn't be."

"What about my grandparents? If they knew me, I doubt they would be five by five with who their grandkid is."

"Was," Kate corrected quickly. "You're right, they wouldn't like who you were. But Faith, when people meet you now they don't see you that way. They see this young woman who is helping keep the world safe. If anything, I think your grandparents would see a similarity between you and your father."

"But I would know that I'm not like that. Sometimes I think I'm deceiving people."

"Why? If you found out Evelyn was a hooker when she was younger would you think she'd lied to you?"

"No way! She's so not that type," Faith snorted.

"Well, people feel the same way about you. If you told Evelyn about that professor you killed she would probably laugh in your face and think you are joking. Not to belittle his life or your crimes, but don't you think it's time to start thinking about yourself as someone who is a good citizen."

"No. I never will."

"Who was in the dream?" Kate took one of Faith's hands and played with the strong fingers.

"People."

"Good people? Bad people?"

"Both."

"Whose side were you on?" She kissed the hand twice.

"No one's. I was playing voyeur."

"And you couldn't help the good guys?" Kate asked hoping she hadn't gone too far in her questioning.

"I watched my father get blown up."

Kate let out a strangled breath and as Faith pulled her tight, silent tears streamed down her face. She felt Faith sobbing and realised that the girl needed her to be strong for her. Brushing the tears away, she reached over and turned on the light.

"It was only a dream, you didn't even know your father when he died. There was nothing you could do, not like I-" Kate stopped and let out a long sigh. "He died for a noble cause, Faith, don't ever lose sight of that."

Minutes ticked by as they held each other.

"You couldn't have saved your father, Kate, not with the information you had," Faith said looking into her lover's eyes. "Don't blame yourself for something you had no part in. Both our fathers made choices that got them killed. Neither of us could have prevented them."

"Doesn't stop the nightmares," Kate replied as a couple more tears escaped her eyes.

"No it doesn't," Faith agreed. "But we have each other. Right?"

"Right," Kate smiled. "You okay?"

"Yeah, things just got put into perspective. How about you?" Faith asked worried.

"I'm sorry that I got caught up in my own problems."

"Don't be," Faith said squeezing her hand. "Geez Kate, you are allowed to cry sometimes too. Especially about the death of a parent. I'm here for you."

"I know," Kate whispered.

"Five by five," Faith replied reaching over and turning off the light. "I love you so much."

"You sure you're okay?" Kate asked as they snuggled together.

"It's only a nightmare, right?"

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

Everything was all set as Faith pulled on her boots the next night. During the day she hadn't think once about the night before and for that she was glad. As she was heading out the courtyard to go patrolling, Kate arrived.

"I'm coming," she said taking one look at her lover.

"It's just a routine patrol," Faith replied striding towards her car.

"Then there's no problem with me being there," Kate argued moving to the passenger side and waiting for Faith to open the door. Begrudgingly Faith let her in. "Ready?"

"So why the sudden interest in my slaying?" Faith asked banging her door shut.

"Could it be that I'm supposed to be making sure you're at the top of your game," Kate rejoined.

"Being a good little Slayer for the big bad Council." Faith peeled down the street and honked her horn at the driver in front whom she deemed was going too slow. "Doesn't have anything to do with last night, does it?"

"And what if it does?"

"Then you have nothing to be worried about. You could be in the apartment putting your feet up." Faith took a corner sharply.

"Maybe I want to spend time with you. Is that a crime?" Kate replied matching Faith's hard tone. If the Slayer really thought it was a crime, she wouldn't have let her come along.

"No, but-" Faith pushed on the brakes, coming to a stop just before the red light, "- it doesn't change the fact you're checking up on me."

It was a running argument they had. Faith insisted Kate was always looking for a way to interfere with her slaying while Kate maintained she was merely supporting her.

"Maybe I just wanted to come along to make sure I saw to your needs before you exploded." Kate knew she'd won when Faith smiled at her and concentrated on driving to the area she'd been patrolling. Still her lover always loved the last word.

"I would see to my own needs before I exploded."

Kate chuckled at the indignant timbre of Faith's voice, pleased that she had given in without a struggle.

As Faith exited the car she turned around and added to her last words, "You better hope there's a fight on tonight so I do get all horny for you. Otherwise I'd say you wasted a good evening."

Luckily for both of them, Faith found a weak vamp to duel and they took advantage of the situation.

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

Faith walked out of the building after a meeting with Marcus to discuss her latest assignment. Marcus was trying to steer Faith in the direction of consulting, but she wasn't having anything to do with it. Her strength was out on the streets and while Marcus acknowledged that, he also wanted to groom her for a much larger role in the company. It was something to think about in the future but Marcus was pushing hard for her to start now. A larger role meant paperwork and there was no way she wanted to be sitting at some desk. Marcus had dropped the subject, but it wouldn't be long until he broached the topic again.

She'd just climbed into her car when her cell phone rang. Only one person outside of work knew it and since she was on her lunch break it must be Kate. The number on the display confirmed it.

"Hey."

"Hey, you on lunch yet?" Kate asked her from her desk at the precinct.

"Yeah, why?"

"Come over to the station, I've got something you might want to see."

"Be there in a while," Faith answered and started her car.

When she arrived, Kate ushered her into an interview room holding a folder in her hands.

"So what have you got?" Faith asked curious.

"Okay. Just don't go walking out of here before you let me finish."

"That doesn't sound good." Faith took a seat anyway.

The cop opened the folder and spread out a few papers. "After my initial search for your father-"

"Kate," Faith complained. "No."

"Yes. You need to know your options."

"My options. For what?" Faith stood up and leaned against the wall. "You're just like Frankie. I don't need to know anything about my father, I know all I need to."

"Frankie?" Kate said still sitting at the table.

"Whatever you're doing, forget it."

Kate continued anyway, "After my initial search, I've been collecting all I can on his family. Your family."

"No." Faith repeated. "I'm outta here."

"Did you know your grandfather fought in the war? Sounds like fighting for others is in your blood." Kate's words stopped Faith leaving, but she was fidgeting. "Your father-"

"That's enough," Faith said and yanked the door open. "I'll see you later."

Kate watched her walk out the door before she collected the papers. She didn't expect the girl to listen to her, but she needed to open that door in case Faith ever wanted to walk through it. It wasn't going to be easy, but she felt the girl's mind could be put at ease if she knew more than the ending of her father's story.

One thing that surprised her though, was the mention of Frankie. She knew Faith admired the woman, but the Slayer was reluctant to talk about anything from her time inside. She wondered what made Faith bring her up.


CHAPTER FIVE


The ball rolled towards the top right-hand pocket and Faith watched it stop a fingernail breadth away from the edge. Kate laughed and easily sunk the last ball on the table.

"Alright, pay up," she taunted her girlfriend.

Friday night and they were at their regular bar for a night out. Since their first date there, they had been virtually weekly visitors to the place. Over time they had become friendly with some of the other regulars, which made the place an idyllic spot to spend their free time. To top it off, the bar was gay-friendly, so they could be open about their relationship. Sometimes they would play against each other, sometimes as a team.

"No way, not until you give me a chance to try to equal," Faith growled, disappointed with her performance.

"Okay, but you have to up the ante," Kate chuckled wondering what Faith was going to come up with.

"Hmm. Got it. As well as cleaning both apartments-"

"Bathroom and toilets included," Kate cut in enjoying the look of disgust on her lover's face.

"I will do the dishes for the whole week. But if you lose I only do one apartment," Faith wagered.

"I'm feeling lucky tonight." Kate held out her hand and Faith shook it. The deal was done. Faith wasn't one to be inclined to clean, so Kate usually ended up doing it. She had wanted to wager this bet for a long time and she wasn't about to lose.

"Are you now?" Faith whispered huskily as she leaned over Kate to retrieve the balls for the next game. "Better hope I'm in a good mood if you want to get lucky."

She felt the cue slap lightly across her butt as she moved away to rack the balls.

"Your woman's confident tonight," Larissa, one of the regulars, commented as Faith passed her. There were a few people watching the four pool tables in the establishment.

"Where's your woman?" Faith asked looking around for Sala.

"Filling in at work," Larissa answered obviously disappointed her lover couldn't be there.

"I better win, there's going to be too much humiliation at my expense if I don't," Faith mumbled keeping an eye on Kate who was casually leaning against the table. Larissa just laughed.

The game started and Kate had a good break. This irritated Faith. If Kate actually won this, it would be another thing gone wrong in a week where she'd had nightmares, Kate on her back about slaying, two people mention her father and the problem of Colin still hadn't been sorted out. She sighed as another ball disappeared down a pocket. It wasn't as if life had taken a turn for the worse, it was as good as it had been two weeks ago. There was something building though, she could feel it. Whether it was going to be Colin or something else that drove her to do some serious ass-kicking, she didn't know.

"Faith?" Kate asked watching the brunette stare dangerously in the direction of the table. She may have been looking that way, but her mind certainly wasn't on the game.

Faith looked up to see Kate patiently waiting for her to take her turn. She sunk two balls and stood up straight as Kate lined up her next shot. Her thoughts immediately withdrew from the game and back to her problems. Colin hadn't called again, unless Kate hadn't told her. Her eyes narrowed at that thought. Kate had decided not to contact Colin to make it clear that she wanted nothing to with him thinking that the warning would only encourage him. Kate had backed off from the issue of her father, though she noticed she brought the folder home from the police precinct and casually left it on top of her papers, the name 'De Silva' written in big black letters across the front. 

What worried her the most was she'd had another nightmare two nights ago. Thankfully Kate had gone home and she didn't have to do the shrink act with her again. She figured her trip to jail must have triggered her memories. If that was the case then she'd just have to ride it out, but she could tell Kate was concerned. A concerned Kate usually meant a questioning Kate and she didn't want to talk about her time inside. She hadn't told Kate about her visit to Frankie because of that fact.

She looked up just in time to see Kate miss a shot. With her concentration back on the game, she pocketed a ball and lined up the next. She cracked the cue onto the white ball, which flew off the table and into the crowd. After much teasing from the patrons, Faith placed the ball back on the table and brushed past Kate.

"What is with you tonight?" Kate mumbled.

"Nothing," Faith answered harshly.

"You know, you use that word too often," Kate said without looking at her.

"What do you want me to say?"

"How about the truth?" Kate took her shot, but her concentration was lacking and it missed considerably.

"Calling me a liar?" Faith challenged. Kate shook her head. Aware that they had an audience, Faith focussed on finishing the game off so she could get away from their scrutiny. 

One, two, three…four, five. She lined up the black and with a crack against the white it went sailing into the hole. She smiled at the crowd cheering her skilled play then made for the corner of the bar where there were a few free tables. Kate followed, not even thinking about the bet she had partially forfeited.

"So, talk to me," she said sitting beside a sulking Faith. 

Instead Faith started talking to one of the barmaids who was cleaning up the empty glasses from a nearby table. She ordered a couple of beers then pretended to be surveying the room.

"Okay." Kate crossed her arms and leaned back in the chair. "Don't talk to me. We can sit here in silence all night."

"You always want to talk. Talk, talk, talk," Faith grumbled. "I never ask you to pour out your feelings every time you don't have a smile on your face."

"Fine," Kate said paying for the beers that had been placed on the table. "Next time I'm concerned, I won't say a thing. You can deal with it on your own."

"You bet I will," Faith said looking away so Kate couldn't see how hurt she was by the words.

They sat there, listening to the music and drinking. Occasionally someone they knew would come up for a chat. Having enough of the silence, Faith went over to the bar and started a conversation with Isabella, her favourite bartender. After a few minutes she turned her head to see what Kate was doing. Her mood soured when she saw Kate talking to a strange man. Excusing herself she walked back to their table and sat down. The conversation between her girlfriend and the man dwindled and he finally moved away.

"You're jealous again," Kate broke the silence as they stared at each other

"He was chatting you up," Faith argued.

"We were talking, for gods sake. Or would you rather I didn't speak to anyone?" Kate stood up and looked to the exit. "In case you haven't noticed, a good number of people at work are men. You're not jealous of them as well are you?"

"No. You're doing your job then."

"It's one thing to be wary of Colin, but now you're being absurd. What do I have to do to show you that I love only you." Kate shook her head in disgust. "I'm leaving. You coming?"

"I suppose I better," Faith shrugged.

"You suppose?" Kate asked angrily. 

The Slayer shrugged again and made her way outside with a fuming cop following her. During the drive home Kate turned the car stereo on to drown out the uncomfortable silence that had fallen. When Kate pulled up at Faith's she left the car running.

"How mad at me are you?" Faith asked tapping her foot on the floor.

"Enough that an apology might be a good idea," Kate answered. It was at times like these that their difference in age showed. She sometimes forgot that Faith was still maturing into an adult.

"I'm sorry?" Faith offered trying to look apologetic.

"You're going to have to do better than that," Kate said letting a chuckle escape accidently.

"Please forgive my no-good ass for being blinded by my irrational feelings?" Faith asked more sincerely.

"Forgive you?" Kate asked giving a brief smile. "I'll let you off the hook…this time."

Faith grinned and leaned across for a kiss, which Kate returned briefly.

"Coming in?"

"You're not that forgiven," Kate chuckled. "Tomorrow may be a different story."

"I can't change your mind?" Faith asked seductively

"You can have all night to think about why I'm not there," Kate said, her words harsher than she meant. "Sor