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Independence	By : norwalker Category: -Buffy the Vampire Slayer > FemmeSlash - Female/Female > Faith/Willow Views: 7379 -:- Recommendations : 1 -:- Currently Reading : 2
Disclaimer: I do not own Buffy the Vampire Slayer (BtVS), nor any of the characters from it. I do not make any money from the writing of this story.

Chapter List
- 14
- 15
- 16
Independence
By Norwalker
Part 15 of
Summary: What did Willow and Faith discuss in that little car trip from L.A. to Sunnydale in season 7? And what were the consequences? A Willow/ Faith story
Rating: R, Very R
Category: romance/drama/angst
Spoilers: Possible season 7 spoilers. Possible season 4 Angel spoilers. C'mon, you must have seen 'em by now!
Time Line: Mid season 7(after the return of Faith) and beyond
Disclaimer: Joss Whedon , Mutant Enemy and Fox own them.
Warnings: Adult themes, violence, sexual situations between members of the same gender. Please be aware, character death is always a distinct possibility. It can happen here, so don't say I didn't warn you!!! Any racist remarks are spoken by the characters, and are in no way shared by the author. This story is not meant for children.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Los Angeles, California
Now

Cookie Dough

She stands on the sidewalk, watching the workmen putting the final touches on the old hotel, and a small grin pulls at her lips.
Cookie Dough. She shakes her head in wonder at that whole little speech she gave Angel just before she and the others took on The First. I'm not done baking yet? Ok, I've said some silly things in my lifetime, but that one's really gotta qualify right up there with the worst. What the HELL was I thinking?
Buffy has been doing a lot of soul searching since she got the news of Angel's death. Their on again/ off again/ on and off and sideways upside relationship has been the nexus of her thoughts in the past month. Maybe it would've been easier if we'd never seen each other after defeating Mayor Wilkins. But that didn't quite happen; things seem to throw us together again, however briefly, at the oddest times. For all she tried to put it behind her, her relationship with Angel, her first ' true' love, had colored every other relationship she'd had. Do you ever really get over your first love? She smiles self mockingly. Now you're going to have to get over it, Buffy. No second chances to fix this one. Ever going to figure out what you really want? Sighing, she walks through the gate leading to the front lobby of the hotel. She notes a considerable amount of work has been done in the front; the garden has been put in shape, the paint on the outside looks new, the portico looks refurbished. Lot of work has been put in here. She's just about to enter the lobby when she spots someone over in the side garden. Faith? It's hard to tell who it is , so she decides to go through the lobby to the garden entrance off the lobby.
The inside looks much like the outside, restored and polished up. She notes that a number of chairs have been placed in the main lobby. Probably planning to hold the memorial right here. She also sees a woman leaning on the reception desk, hunching over a laptop, on the phone. From what she can tell, she's an older woman, probably in her mid thirties or so, thin, on the tallish side. As Buffy approaches her, She notices she has shoulder length light brown hair, intense gray eyes, and a pleasantly attractive face. But at the moment, she seems more than a little harried. She's reading information on her laptop at the same time she's talking on the phone; from what Buffy can determine, she's not liking what she's hearing. As Buffy approaches, the woman looks up at her, her eyebrow shooting up in a " Well, what do you want?" kind of way. Buffy mouths " Faith?" and the woman, with an impatient look, vaguely waves over towards the garden. Buffy mouths " thanks" but the woman just looks at her; more, she look through her. Buffy is nearly taken aback at the power of her eyes. She smiles uncertainly, and makes her way towards the garden.
She walks out and notices Faith sitting on one of the stone benches, half turned away from her. Buffy observes that she seems to be in her own little thought world, and quietly waits a bit away, looking her over. Buffy senses a change about her, but can't quite put her finger on it. She looks pretty much the same; Buffy can't pin it to one or two things that might be different. Just something is ... off. Paranoid much, Buffy? She's lost in thought...not likely to be herself that way. This thing with Angel has hit her deeply, too. Buffy watches as Faith seems to break out of her spell, sitting up and looking around. She notices Buffy, and a small smile crosses over her face.
" Hey" Faith half waves to Buffy, inviting her to come over.
" Hey" Buffy walks to Faith, and sits, turned so she can look at Faith.
" Well, aint this a bitch, " Faith says, shrugging, "never expected to be..." she trails off, bemused.
" Yeah, always expected he would be... shit, I still can't take it in, " Buffy says, " what happened? Do you know?"
" Only rumors. No one's alive to talk about it... at least, no one that's going to talk to us about it... heard he... they... pissed off the Senior partners, somehow. Something about black thorn, whatever the hell that is... maybe you can have Giles look it up..."
" Dunno about that. The First and Caleb did a real number on the Watcher's council. Destroyed the main depository of their resources. Frankly, don't know if they'll ever be what they were." Buffy shakes her head.
" Well, I'm sure Giles and Company will do their best to make it just as stuffy as it's always been, " Faith mocks, and then catches Buffy's expression, " Ok, cheap shot. I know Giles is trying to make things different... better... but frankly, if they're like I remember, he's having an uphill battle of it... not entirely convinced their destruction was 100 % a bad thing..."
" Really, Faith, we're trying to make it different..." Buffy looks pained, " And a lot of good people died..."
" I know, I'm not being fair... right? But then, hard to get the warm fuzzies for an organization that does it's best to kill you..."
" I remember... since they tried to kill me when you switched bodies with me." Buffy arches her brow.
" Ok, alright, B. I had a few little problems... not like I haven't paid for them..." Faith starts to get a little bristly.
" Guess we're always going to do this, huh?"
" Seems like... we always get into this territorial thing whenever we get together..." Faith remarks, " kinda hoping that would end when we went our separate ways, neither of us being slayers. Doesn't seem like."
"No, it doesn't, " Buffy says.
They're quiet for a little while, then Buffy starts up again.
" You've done a nice job with the place, " Buffy says, gesturing towards the hotel, " looks really good."
" The workmen did the job, I just saw it got done, " Faith replies." It's no big."
" I meant, it was good you did the whole thing... planning a memorial" Buffy says, " Took time and money and stuff. What does Will think of it all."
" Geeze, Buffy, just plunge in the knife already, and get it done, ok?" Faith says, angry. She stands up and walks off.
"What? What'd I say?" Buffy, confused, follows Faith.
" Oh, c'mon Buffy, Willow didn't tell you? Her ' bestest ' friend in the whole world?" Faith looks at her suspiciously.
" Willow ... didn't tell me anything, Faith, " Buffy says, genuinely not getting it, " What's to tell?"
" You expect me to believe that, Buffy? I mean, she said nothing all the times I'm sure you called her? Nothing, nada, not a thing? Puh-lease, do I look like a dope?"
" Faith, you're not making sense. The times I called Willow, we talked about this and that... what was she supposed to tell me?"
" That we're split up, " Faith says, looking at Buffy intently. What the hell kinda game is she playing here, anyway?
" What? When? What happened?" Buffy asks, not believe Faith. What kinda game is she playing here? Will would've told me if they split... wouldn't she?
"What's going on here, B? I mean, surely when you called her, and asked her " How're things?" She mentioned this? It must rate over the latest flavor at Starbucks or something."
" Look, Faith, I'll be honest here, " Buffy says.
" That'll be a switch," Faith intercedes.
" Sarcasm? Not helping, Faith. Ever since You and Will went on that ' mission' for Angel, way back when, I... well, once I went to Europe, haven't been in touch much with anyone in the old gang. With rebuilding the council and all, and whatever was going on here, not much talking got done. The times I would remember to call, just to check in? Lots of times, she ' wasn't available'. When I did catch her, conversations were on the short side, and she seemed to not want to talk too much about her life. I'm getting why now."
" Didn't that kinda make you a bit suspicious?"
" Yeah, I guess. But her tone said ' don't push it, Buffy' , so I didn't. And, frankly I was busy myself, with the council and Dawn and everything. I was kind of hoping to catch up some ... another reason I came early..." She frowns, " I'm guessing that's not going to be happening."
"Well, what about when she called you about Angel, and the memorial... and ..."
" She didn't, Faith. I learned about Angel from Giles... and then... ok, I kinda just went AWOL, Faith. I've been 'gone ' from the council for like a month or so... couldn't deal with the fucking bullshit... I guess she called Giles ... and I called him, after... that's how I found out about the memorial..."
" No, I called Giles. I called her to tell her, but ... she wouldn't talk to me, so I left her a message. I just figured she call you..."
"Well, now I guess I know why she wouldn't talk to me much. Didn't want to tell me about..." Buffy looks bemused. " What happened? Why'd you split?"
" Really none of your business, B, " Faith moves towards the door, " best just to forget about it, ok?"
" Is that what you're doing? Forgetting about it?" Buffy asks, sarcastically, " What'd you do?"

" Why do you automatically think I did something?" Faith turns on her, " How do you know she didn't do something?"
" Because I know her, better than anyone," Buffy says.
" Really? You know her, right? How come when she needed you most you weren't there for her then, huh?"
" What're you talking about?"
" After Tara... after she went psycho... why weren't you there for her? When she came back? She needed her friends... and where were you?"
" I was there..." Buffy says defensively
" Yeah, so much so she didn't even feel like she belonged. She sure saw you needed help... what? You think I came to Sunnyhell out of the goodness of my heart? She pleaded with me to come, because you were losing it... over some vampire, yet. God, how original "
" That's so not fair...!" Buffy starts turning red.
" But it's fair the way you treated her, is it? You and Xander and Dawn? You wonder why she doesn't want to talk to you ? Maybe because she doesn't believe in you anymore!"
" That's such a lie... I don't believe you..." Buffy looks at Faith, and she calms down. A smirk comes on her face. " Oh, you're good. Nice try, Faith. But this isn't the deal. We were talking about you and Will. What'd you do?"
" As I said, it's not your business, B. What do you care?"
" Don't want to see Willow hurt, " Buffy growls, " not by anyone."
" What you gonna do, Buffy? Kick my ass? Real mature. Is that your solution to everything?" Faith gives her a disgusted look, " when're you gonna grow up, B? Sometimes things just don't work out."
" Maturity lessons? From you, Faith? That's rich, " Buffy repeats, " What did you do?"
" Look, Buffy, I didn't 'do' anything. I found out stuff about me, and what I've got to do... and what I am... and I ... broke it off with her, ok? There, happy? If you want, you can kick my ass now."

" Why? You're doing such a good job of it yourself, Faith."
Faith looks at her, puzzled and suspicious.
" Oh, please, Faith. I know you think I'm an idiot. But even I can see you're still busted up over it... god, you about tore my head off there, trying to protect Will. That doesn't sound like a woman that doesn't care. Why kick your ass for being stupid? You're doing just fine yourself, " Buffy shakes her head, " Anyway, IF you ass needed kicking, Willow doesn't need my help to do it. She can pretty much hurt you any way she wants to."
" Yeah, well, if you think I'm mourning over it, you don't know shit, B. But then, that's typical. It's over, past history, you know? I moved on, pretty sure Willow has too." Faith is all business. " If we're done here..."
" Liar, Faith. You're such a liar, " Buffy says, not trying to be mean.
" Believe what you want, B. You always do." Faith shrugs as she heads for the lobby door.
" Faith?" Buffy calls out. Faith stops, and turns back.
"What?"
" I get it, Faith. I do."

" Great. I don't get what the hell you're talking about, but great."
" Look, Faith. I don't know what happened between you and Will. Not my business, ok. But I get what it's like when you can't be with the one you want to be with. I really do."
Faith looks at Buffy's face, and finally gets it herself. Grinning ruefully, she sits on the step, across from Buffy.
" I guess you do, Buffy, " Faith says, quietly. " How do you do it? How do you get through it?"
" Oh, yeah, I'm the one to ask. I ran away, and went to hell... and it didn't help," Buffy says, "Look, Faith, there are no formulas, no magic spells. You just wake up today, hoping you don't think too much about 'em, and get through the day, hoping that you don't get too many reminders of 'em. At the end of the day, if you're not feeling like crap, you're doing ok. If you're half way happy, it's a good day. "
" Good days, " Faith muses, " I think I'm still working up to not really crappy."
They both sit silently for awhile.
" Who's the scary suit?" Buffy finally asks.
" Scary suit?" Faith asks, puzzled. Then a slow smile tugs at her lips, " Oh, you mean inside? Kinda tall, gray eyes, brown hair? Looks like she has a cell phone surgically attached to her ear?" Buffy nods. " You met Kira, then."
" Met is kinda strong for what we did, " Buffy says, " I'd say more like, we did a Marcel Marceau when I asked about you."
Knowing Kira, Faith chuckles at the image. Buffy shrugs.
" She looked kinda mad," Buffy grins, "very intense and businessy."
" I'm going to guess she was talking on the cell with one hand, and looking at her laptop and typing with her other?"
" Yeah... that's it."
" You caught her while she was in her 'zone'. She hates being interrupted when she's in her zone. Kira can be a little fussy about things."
" Ok, great... but...who is she?"
" Ah, I'll let her tell you that, " Faith says, getting up. She walks over and grabs Buffy's hand. " C'mon, B, I want you to meet her. She's a hoot." She pulls on Buffy's hand, but Buffy stays sitting.
" Don't want to bother her, " Buffy says, clearly not thrilled with the idea.
" Ahhh, don't sweat it, B. Kira's had enough 'zone' time for now. If I let her, she'll stay like that all the time, then she starts taking herself way too seriously... not a good thing, let me tell you." Faith pulls on Buffy's hand again, and Buffy stands, reluctantly.
" Why can't you just tell me who she is?" Buffy says.
" What's the fun in that?" Faith grins at her.

Pulling Buffy along after her like a reluctant child, Faith makes her way inside the lobby.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
San Francisco, CA.
Now
" Are you sure about this?" Jana asks Willow for the third time.
Jana watches as Willow packs for her trip to L.A. Knowing Willow has been an interesting, sometimes exciting, and often frustrating experience for Jana. The Wicca group she belonged to had discussed Willow at length. When Willow actually later joined the group, it was like having a celebrity member. In Jana's opinion, if there was anyone that was the antithesis of celebrity, that was Willow Rosenberg. She was modest to the point of shyness, very quiet, but on the other hand extremely approachable. You couldn't guess by her demeanor or her actions that she was probably one of the most powerful witches in the world.
Jana's interest has gone deeper than celebrity, however. Everyone, including herself, had been a bit leery of approaching her; hell, who knows what kind of chip she had on her shoulder, you know what I mean? But Jana had taken the initiative, and was glad she had. She'd discovered a warm, caring woman with no pretensions. She has one of those smiles that are infectious, a soft, kind voice and a totally unique(some would say weird) way of talking that was charming and confusing at the same time. Then there were those clear, olive colored eyes that could run a myriad of emotions from merriment to downright anger. Jana feels lucky so far she hasn't seen the latter.
Jana has to admit her interest in Willow Rosenberg has taken a more personal interest. Over the months she's known her, Jana has found a growing attraction for the red-headed Wiccan. She found herself making excuses to spend more time with Willow, and has even boldly asked her on a few dates. She could tell by Willows small knowing grin that she was catching on to Jana's game, but she played innocent, and didn't try to push herself on Willow. Not that I'm exactly dog food, mind you! Actually, at 5'7", long raven hair, deep blue eyes, cute little smile dimples, and a trim figure, Jana was far from, as she puts it, dog food. A little older than Willow(Ok, pushing 30, don't make a deal of it), she had an even temperament and a mischievous streak. She loved to prank on people. Thing was, Willow was sharp enough to turn the prank back on her, so she had to be careful with her. She's so cool about it though, as if she didn't even know about it. Gotta love her for it.
That was another thing. Jana's afraid she is loving her for it... and other things. And despite Willow's casual friendliness, Jana senses a huge wall built around her heart. She's been hurt, and she's totally doing the avoidy thing about anything serious. Shit, Jana, now she's got you talking like she does. Jana can also sense something deeper. Some secret she's hiding away...something that scares her badly. Jana feels all her instincts kicking in, wanting to reach out and comfort the younger woman. Sigh. Looks like I'm getting it bad. She realizes that Willow is no where near ready for anything nearing commitment, so she has to put her own feelings on a low burner way in the back. For now, it's gotta be friends. Maybe... goddess, I hope so, more later.
Willow looks up from her packing, and smiles. " Jana, sweetie, thank you. But really, I'm ok about this. I'm going to be totally to the good there."
" Uh-huh, " Jana stalls, taking a second to translate Willow-speak," I'm not saying you need someone along... just thought it'd be nice and all... and in case you get oh, needing to talk..."
"Jana, you're so cute sometimes, " Willow chuckles, " I'm going to have friends there, and I'm pretty sure they'll be checking weapons at the door..."
" Ok, ok, I'm being a little over protective, I get it, " Jana smiles, " but still, I know it's going to be difficult, and you're ex is gonna be there, and ... I don't like you being all alone without anyone to like... you know."
" Yeah, I know, " Willow says, detecting the tiniest little note of jealousy in Jana's voice. She's so sweet, but I never ... gosh, girl, don't get all tied up in me, trust me, not worth it." Don't worry, Jana. It's all ancient history, and I know Faith has moved on to other things." Willow sighs internally, wishing now she'd never spilled the beans about Faith. Well, maybe if you hadn't gotten a little drunk and weepy, Will. Goddess, you're hopeless sometimes. I'm gonna have to be real careful here. Don't want Jana to get too serious... I so not ready for serious.
"Look, Will, if it's because you don't want to share a room, we can like have separate rooms and stuff. I won't get in the way, promise, and hey, we could do the tourist stuff , you know? It'd be a blast, don't you think?" Jana tries to sound casual, but her tone is hopeful. Inside her head she's screaming at herself. Damn, damn, don't push. Man, she's gonna know your doing the pleading thing here. Just cool it, girl. She doesn't want to be pushed, ok? God, don't blow this before it even starts, you moron! " It's been forever since I've been to L.A." Jana says, offhandedly.
" Think that might be because you think L.A. is like the cultural wasteland of California?" Willow smiles. But she's sighing inside. Oh, man. She gets up and walks over to Jana. " Jana, you know I like you, right?"
Jana nods, silently kicking herself. Oh, man, I blew it. She's upset. Here it comes!
" You know I like spending time with you, right?" Willow looks at her, trying to gauge her reaction. Again, Jana nods.
" Ok, then. I'm not trying to keep you out, Jana. I want you to know that. But this is something from my old life, my life before I came here. It's really personal to me, and I need to do this by myself," Willow reaches over, and lifts Jana's chin, which seems to have sunk to her chest. " I love that you want to be with me, and support me. That's really so sweet, " Willow smiles at her, and Jana smiles back. " I'm fond of you, Jana. But you've got to remember what I told you before. I'm really not ready to go to the 'next' place yet. I'm not ready for anything serious, ok?"
" You think I want serious?" Jana says, lightly, covering her feelings , " No way, Will. I just thought well, since you were going anyway, we could ....well, you know, have some fun, too. No big deal." Shit, shit, shit, shit. Stupid, so stupid, really stupid, Jana!
Willow looks at the woman seated across from her. Why'm I being such a dope? It's obvious she likes me... and I'm finding I like her. Why'm I being such a stupid , and doing this. I gotta let the past go, and start living for now. This is stupid, Willow. Really stupid. What? You think she's gonna wait forever?
" Jana, don't think I'm not caring about you. That I'm not enjoying being with you. Just, I told you, my last two relationships? I rushed into them, and it was a total disaster. Both counts. I don't... I want better for us, if there's gonna be an ' Us '. Ok? I just need more time. Please, try to understand that."
"Will, why're you getting all serious, huh?" Jana says, standing up, " It's like you said, you know? It's casual, things are cool. We're buds, right?" Jana walks to the door of Will's bedroom, and turns, " I just thought we could have a couple of laughs together in L.A. But I get it. It's a serious thing, and personal. Like I said, no big. So, ummm, I'll see you when you get back then, right?"
" Jana, I'm not leaving til tomorrow night. I thought maybe, after I got packed, we could go down to that little caf� on 7^th street, you know, and get dinner?" Willow knows she's blown it already, but hoping she can repair the damage she's done.
" Man, I'd love to, Will," Jana says, " but I'm kinda behind on my project for work, and I really gotta buckle down so I can get it done by deadline, you know?" Aw, shit, she's gonna see right through that one!
"Oh," Willow does see through it, but is afraid to challenge her on it. " Ok, well... I guess when I get back then?"
" Yeah, cool, that'll be cool, " Jana says, opening the door. " Man, what was I smokin', anyway, girl? Go to L.A. ? McDonalds by the sea? Gimme a break, ya know? I musta been high," Jana laughs, and walks out the door. " Seeya later, Will" She calls out over her shoulder.
Willow sits for a second, her brow furrowed. Then she gets up and crosses to her dresser, to get more stuff to pack. She catches a glance of her reflection in the mirror over the dresser.
I swear, Willow Rosenberg! For being so smart, you're pretty much a dufus!!
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Los Angeles, California
Now
" No, no, and NO!" Kira Hearne growls into her cell," I told you last week what I was expecting from the Robertson account, Darren. There is no way the client is going to accept those numbers, and then he's going to drop his account with us, costing us...oh, what? 5 million in commissions per quarter. Do you think we can afford that kind of hit, Darren?" Kira stands impatiently listening to the caller on the other end. " yes, I'm aware of that. And if you remember, I told you how to work around that... twice! What do you mean, that can't be done? Excuse me, but I'm not an idiot, Darren. I checked it out for myself. Not only can it be done, but it can be done, my way, at a cost savings of 6 %. Yes. I sent you the projections, and the costs ratios. What do you mean, you didn't get them? I sent them 3 days ago. I'm really not liking what I'm hearing here..."
At this point, she stops, and looks up surprised. Faith has snatched the cell from her hand, and starts speaking into it.
" Hi, Darren? Yes, it's me, Faith. Yes, I know, I know. But be nice, and do what Kira told you to do... Yes, I'll expect the first draft in her email box in oh... what say? 5 hours? Good... yes...ok, goodbye, Darren." Faith closes the phone, ending the call.
Kira looks at Faith, her expression angry. " Why'd you do that? I had it handled. You know as well as I do that Darren is just a stubborn..." it's then she notices the petite blond woman standing a little off from her and Faith, and she modulates her remark " ... guy. It really doesn't help when you cut in like that, you know."
" I know. Darren can be a Jackass... a total fuck, " Faith watches as Kira blushes," Oh, c'mon, you know you were thinking the same thing. Don't worry about B. She's used to my language, she won't faint. Anyway, Darren's an asshole, but he's a smart asshole, and he knows his biz, too. Sometimes, love you forget that. Sometimes sugar works better with stubborn asses, better than the lash."
Kira still looks peeved, "Faith, you can't just do that. I mean, it undercuts my authority. You know as well as I do how hard it's been for a woman to get respect in the business world. I need these guys to respect me."
" And they do, Kira. All except Darren, who's an asshole, and doesn't respect anyone. Except me, cuz he knows I can beat the hell outta him." Faith smirks. "Oh, stop pouting, Kira. You're just mad cuz I took your toy away, " Faith hold up the cell phone, " you'll get it back soon enough. I want you to meet someone, is all." Kira looks at Faith, her mouth pulled down into a frown." Oh, c'mon, Kira. Stop being that way. You know I respect you. You're one of the most brilliant business people I know. I couldn't do this without you, you know that." Kira tries to keep her expression grim, but basking in Faith's praise, soon finds herself smiling. " Now, that's better. Don't want you all frowny face when you meet Buffy."
Buffy, watching this, is somewhat amazed. Whoa. Never would've thought it. Faith? As the peacemaker? The build up the troops girl? I gotta admit, she's smooth. A lot better leader than I'd give her credit being. Hell, better than I am . Ok, Buffy, don't go overboard... still...
Kira turns to Buffy, and looks at her intently. " Hey, haven't we met before?"
" Don't know if you'd call it meeting. But we did mouth a few sweet nothings about Faith a few minutes ago," Buffy says, smiling. " Hi, I'm Buffy."
" Oh...gee... was that you? So sorry... didn't know you were Faith's friend." Kira blushes a little, " I was kind of rude. But I was in the middle of something, and that jerk I was talking to can be so rude..."
" No big. Believe me, I know how rude guys can be, " Buffy laughs, " pleased to meet you...ummm.. didn't catch your name."
" Well, color me rude, now. Buffy Summers, this is Kira Hearne. Kira, this is Buffy Summers."
" Hey, Kira," Buffy sticks out her hand.
" Hi, Buffy, " Kira says, taking her hand. " Buffy... odd name, but I've heard it before... wait, I know this... Faith... didn't you tell me you worked with a Buffy... another slayer like you, right?"
" That's the one," Faith says, nodding her head towards Buffy.
" Really?" Kira looks at Buffy, somewhat surprised. " Her? You're not kidding?"
" No, not kidding, Kira."
" But... she's so... tiny." Kira looks at Buffy again.
" Umm... guys? Standing right here. Can hear you, you know." Buffy protests . Tiny? God I'm NOT tiny!
"Oh god, I'm sorry, " Kira blushes, " Just surprised. You're so... little."
"Faith..." Buffy's voice takes on a slightly irritated note.
Faith is enjoying this all too much. She's doing her best not to break out laughing.
" Oh, I'm sorry, so sorry," Kira stumbles over herself, trying to make it right, " I didn't mean anything by it. It's just the way Faith described you? I expected someone... bigger. More like a 6 foot Amazon woman or something. Taking on groups of demons, and vampires, and a --- what was that Faith? A 20 foot snake monster demon thingie?"
" Faith???" Buffy feels her temper rising, " You told her I was a 6 foot tall AMAZON?"
Faith puts up her hands and grins sheepishly." Nooo, not me, B. "
Buffy looks at Kira, puzzled and annoyed.
" Umm... ummm... look, it's my fault, ok? I mean, I just assumed, from what Faith told me about you..." Kira is beginning to blush furiously. Faith is just having a good time with this. Buffy looks annoyed, but not really mad. " Ummm... can we start again, please? Hi, I'm Kira, and you're Buffy, right?" Kira sticks out her hand.
" Hi, " Buffy says, starting to chuckle, " good to meet you, I think."
" So sorry about the mix-up... I just was going by what Faith said..."
" Kira? Word of advice, from someone's who's been there? Take Faith's word with oh, a pound of salt, ok?" Buffy grins, giving it to Faith.
" Hey!"
" Don't believe everything she tells you, trust me, you'll be happier."
" Hey!" Faith protests, " Don't be going and making Kira think I'm a liar, B."
" So, Kira," Buffy goes on, ignoring Faith, " Faith hasn't told me anything about you. I'm guessing you... work with Faith? What exactly do you do?"
Kira, not used to the spotlight shining on her, blushes. "Oh, I..." She looks at Faith for the ok to tell. Faith nods, " I'm the CEO of the Lehane Group. You might say we're a worldwide financial concern. Actually, I'm CEO of the North American operations."
" The wha - who - huh?" Buffy says, lost.
" The Lehane Group, Buffy. My grandmother's family business. Don't bust a brain cell over it, nothing you've ever heard of, " Faith says, lightly, " I just wanted you to meet Kira, since you almost ran into her earlier."
" Ok, no busting brain cells here, " Buffy says," just wondering why Kira is acting like you're the boss?"
" Well, she is, Buffy," Kira looks at Faith, confused. " She's the chair of the board of Lehane International, the parent company."
Buffy is beyond stunned. She stands there, looking at Faith as if she just came in on the shuttle from Venus. Faith chuckles at Buffy's reaction.
" Man, this is so ... I wish I had a camera, just so I could get a shot of your face, B. Too rich, " Faith is laughing.
" This is a joke, right?" Buffy can't believe what she's hearing.
" No joke, B. What? You thought I was gonna be party girl forever?"
" Well... no, of course not... but... geeze, Faith, you've gotta admit, it's kinda... ok, it's totally unbelievable!" Buffy looks at Faith, then Kira, then back to Faith.
" That's my B." Faith laughs, " Well, don't strain those blonde hairs of yours too much. I'm not gonna be the chair much longer."
" Huh?"
" Faith, I still think you should reconsider..." Kira isn't in favor of this move, obviously.
" Kira, you know I'm not happy doing this. And there's plenty of talent to keep Lehane running just fine. I need..." Faith turns serious, " I need something more active in what I supposed to do... "
" You're making a mistake, Faith. You're doing good things now, why do you have to ...?" Kira looks unhappy.
" Ah, Kira, don't get all pouty again. You know the company's financing it. The rest of the board agrees with me on this... and they said you're welcome to come along, if you want."
" Faith, you know I'd follow you ..." Kira says, " but this isn't my kind of thing...I'm good at what I do."
" I know that, too, Kira. And I'm gonna need someone like you to keep things running smoothly... and keep the board off my back."
" What're you two talking about, anyway?" Buffy says, trying to follow along, but feeling like she's at a tennis match, blindfolded.
" Look, B... I really can't get into too much now. But I'm planning something... something I'm hoping you want to be a part of... but, later, after the memorial." Faith shoots a look at Kira. " When everybody's already here."
" Ok, sure," Buffy replies. She's feeling more than a bit dense, a little lost, and more than a little annoyed.
" So, since we're all such great buds now, can I buy you guys a drink... or 12?" Faith grins.
" Faith, I really got more work to do..." Kira says, looking to back out of this. She's not the party type.
Faith looks out the hotel lobby, into the now darkened garden.
" Workday's over, Kira. Time to unwind a bit." Faith turns to Buffy, and grins, " See why I like her? She reminds me of you... a bit too tightly wound." Faith winks.
" Hey, I didn't turn down the drink, girlfriend, " Buffy says, " long as you're buying."
" That's the spirit, Blondie. We'll drink to old friends, lost loves, and good times... whattya say?"
" Really... thanks, Faith, Buffy. But I really should get back to my hotel room and finish...."
Faith looks at Buffy. Buffy looks at Faith. Before she can protest, each slayer has taken Kira by an arm, lifted her and started carrying her out of the hotel.
" No... please... really... I've got to get this ..."
" Lead on, Faith," Buffy says, grinning.
" You betcha, B." Faith grins, evilly. " You're gonna have fun, Kira, if we've gotta kill everybody in L.A. to do it."
Kira, looking a little scared, just rolls her eyes.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
" Ummm... now what?"
Kira Hearne stares intently at her empty glass. She gives it her full attention and concentration, as if afraid it will disappear or change if she doesn't keep watch over it.
"Well, generally, Kira?" Faith says, just the tiniest slur to her voice, " When it gets empty? You order another one." Faith lifts her glass, and drinks from it, then notices her too is empty. " Oh, dear, this'll never do." Faith raises her hand, signally for the waitress to come take an order. She looks up, sees her hand waving, and stares at it, briefly fascinated.
" You know what I think?" Buffy asks, with the concentration only commanded by one who's drunk, and not used to being drunk.
" No, Tinkerbell, what do you think?" Kira grins at her own joke.
" Well, first of all, I really think you should knock off the short jokes, ok? Gets old fast... ya know?" Buffy says, a bit sloppily, " I mean, how'd you like it I start calling you stretch, stretch?"
" Ah, lighten up, B. I mean, you gotta admit, you're kinda on the diminyoo... er... short side" Faith grins at her.
"Oh yeah? Big enough to whip your ass, Faith. So, wanna make somethin' of it, slayer?" Buffy chortles, suddenly finding the whole idea hilarious.
" Boy, somebody gets hostile when she's smashed," Kira looks at Buffy owlishly.
" Drunk? I'm not drunk... and hey, I'm not hostile, either!" Buffy protests, " just I got a great idea, and no one wants to listen to it."
" Go ahead, Buffy. I'm listening, " Kira says, all ears.
" 'K...ummm... what was I saying... ah crap... wait... ok... I got it. Yeah, know what I think?"
" kinda did that already, B. But, hey, whatta ya think?"
" I think, it blows that you gotta go and get the glass refilled every time it gets empty, you know?" Buffy stares at her empty glass, " or wait til like your 80 for the waitress to show up...know what I mean?"
"Well, yeah, ok, but you know, thing is? you drink the drink, the glass gets empty. Law of... hmmm... I dunno, some law" Kira smiles.
" Yeah I know... not dumb, you know? But... what if you ... I dunno, enchant the glass? So it like never empties? That'd be totally cool."
" And totally dumb for the bar. Pay for one drink, and never get paid for another. Be outta bizness in a week."
" No... you're not getting it. See, you charge a hefty price for the first drink... way big price. Then , it covers the costs of lots and lots of drinks, you know? And hey, save on labor... don't need waitresses. Cool, huh?"
" Who... I mean, where'd you get the glass? I mean, not like they just enchant glasses all willy-nilly," Kira giggles, " Willy-nilly... sounds like a band."
Buffy looks intently at Kira. Faith grabs Kira's face, and turns it towards herself, looking closely at her.
" You're plastered" Buffy and Faith say together.
" I'm not plastered. Not even really buzzed. Ok, maybe a little buzzed, but light years from plastered!" Kira looks at her glass, turns it over, and slams it on the table. " I need another drink!"
"Where the hell is that waitress, anyway?" Faith growls, " What, do I need to like send up a flare or somethin? Shit, I'm going to the bar." Faith stands up, a little woozily, and heads towards the bar.
" Hmmm... she should make a Navaho rug with that weave, " Buffy comments on Faith's progress to the bar.
" Are you two always like this? I mean... so competitive?" Kira asks.
" Yeah, I guess we are. It's always been that way, you know?".
" But who's the better slayer?" Kira asks," I'm putting my money on Faith."
" Why doesn't that surprise me?" Buffy smiles, a little knowingly, " What if I said I was the better slayer?"
" I'd say you're rather full of yourself " Kira says
" Naw, trust me. Ask Faith the same thing, and she'll say she's the better slayer. Thing is," Buffy says, low and confidential, " it's not all that easy to suss out anymore. I used to be pretty sure I was the better slayer. Pretty much had a lock on it. But ... it's different now. Faith's changed... in a good way. Her attitude, her confidence? All up there, way up there," Buffy leans in a little, " Don't say I said so, cuz I'll say you're lying, but she's ahead of me right now, I'm thinking."
" Really, Blondie? Hey, I'm touched," Faith grins down at her. She's standing behind Buffy, holding their drinks.
Buffy gets a sourly rueful look on her face. She half covers her face with her hand and looks away. Kira, catching the dynamic going on( The Chosen Two? NEVER PRAISE EACH OTHER... not in the other's presence, anyway), smiles at Buffy's embarrassment. Faith puts a drink by Buffy, and does the same for Kira, then sits herself.
" Hey, don't stop now, Buffy. I mean, gotta love hearing praise from you. It's rare... hell, it's practically non-existent."
Buffy just stares down at her drink, feeling she's already said too much. Oh, yeah, I need Faith getting a swelled head over this. Uh-huh. She looks up at Kira, as if she set her up, then at Faith, with a frown on her face. Then she looks back at her drink. A rather uncomfortable silence falls over the table. Finally Kira stands up.
" Hey, ummm... I still have lot of work to do back at the hotel, and if I drink any more it's never going to get done." She collects her coat and purse, " I'll see you guys later, ok?"
" No... don't go, Kira," Buffy says, standing up, " frankly, I'm kinda out of the party mood. I think I could use some air."
" What' going on? I go to the bar for 5 minutes, and all of a sudden, everybody's ready to motor. What did you two talk about, anyway?" Faith looks from one to the other, trying to suss out the sudden tension at the table, "we were having a pretty good time, last time I checked."
" Faith, I've really got work to do, and I don't want to be up all night trying to figure it out, especially after drinking. Besides, I think there's stuff you two need to talk about. And it's not going to get done, not if I'm sitting here, " She turns to Faith, " I'll see you back at the hotel, ok?" She brushes her fingers over Faith's shoulders.
" Well, at least take a cab, ok? Not safe out there, you know?" Faith looks up at her, and covers Kira's hand with her own, " charge it back to the company." She gives her hand a gentle squeeze.
"Count on it," Kira smiles, returning the squeeze. She extracts her hand and turns to Buffy, " it's been fun, ya know?" She turns and walks off, heading for the exit. Faith watches her briefly.
" She gonna be ok?" Buffy asks
" Yeah, Kira's pretty savvy. She knows how to take care of herself, and I taught her a few things."
It grows quiet at the table again, neither knowing exactly how to start this little chat. Buffy fiddle with her drink, distracting herself. Faith looks over at Buffy, finally, and sighs.
" Well, this is kind of stupid. I mean, what've we got to talk about, anyway?" Faith shakes her head, sipping at her beer, " Kira gets some strange ideas, sometimes."
" Look, Faith, Kira's right. There's some things I need to talk to you about, to kinda clear the air, you know?" Buffy shifts uncomfortably in her chair, " I just don't know where to start."
" Don't look at me, B. I don't have a clue what you want to say, " Faith leans back in her chair, " it's not like we're lifelong friends you know. We worked together a couple of times, and we both knew Angel. That's the only reason we're even here, together."
" Yeah, I know. We've always been at each other, trying to top dog each other, and it's all been bullshit, " Buffy says, " it was stupid, and frankly, a lot of it was my fault."
Faith cocks her head, a small grin on her face.
" Ok, ok, most of it, don't be so..." Buffy exhales noisily, " look, do you have to make this harder than it already is? Think it's easy for me to say this?"
" No, I guess it's not, " Faith nods her acknowledgement, " Sorry, not trying to crank you or anything. It's just a little unexpected."
" Yeah, I know. I haven't exactly been open � arms girl when it came to you, Faith. I know that, " Buffy takes a drink, " but I've had a lot of time to think over this last year, about what's important to me and what's not. Not having the weight of the world on your shoulders does that for you. Frees up your mind, a whole bunch."
" Buffy, is there a point here? I mean, anytime in the near future?"
" The point is, Faith, that I thought about what happened between us, and why, and I know that it could've... should've been better. I was totally insecure, though. With Angel, and all the other stuff I was going through, I couldn't deal with another slayer right then. I didn't know if my friends really were my friends, after I ran off to L.A. My mom, she still didn't trust me not to hop another bus off to who knows where. Giles was angry, even if he hid it, because I left him in the lurch. And, then there was Angel, I thought that was over and gone, and he reappears from who knows where? I can't tell anybody about it, because they wouldn't get it. They would've thought he was still evil. Hell, I didn't know he wasn't evil... not until he killed the beast Pete had become. I was all confused, and you show up, and now I've got you to deal with...and I didn't. I put you aside, made you feel like nothing. But I know ... I wish I hadn't. Because you know what I was going through, being a slayer, you could've ... shit. I was wrong. I didn't see you as an equal, I saw you as a burden, and I made you feel that way. I was stupid, so stupid."
Faith sits with a poker face, absorbing what Buffy's saying. Well, never thought I'd live to see this. Buffy? Admitting she's wrong? What's the catch?
" Why're you doing this, Buff? I mean, ok I know all this, sort of. Rehashing the past is kinda pointless. We aren't that close, and not sure we can ever be that close. Sometimes that's just the breaks."
" Well, I guess that's your choice, but I wanted you to know. It's important that you know."
"That's where you're wrong, B. It wasn't my choice. It was your choice. You had the power. You could've been my friend, but you decided you didn't want that. Now, you're sitting here and saying ' lets be all friendly like' ? What're you thinking, anyway? I moved on, Buffy. I don't know why you're stuck in this groove, but maybe you should think about moving on too."
" I'm asking for a second chance, Faith. I know we've got history, bad blood between us. But isn't there some way we can get past that?"
" I'm still not hearing the why, Buffy. I hear you want to be friends, but why? Why now? Why is it so important now?"
" Maybe it's loss, Faith. Losing Angel, this way. I'll never get another chance with him, you know? Hell, you've been closer to him than me, lately. I lost him, and he's a big part of my life. I lost Riley, because I wasn't paying attention, I didn't clue into the fact that I needed him, really needed him, as much ... more... than he needed me. Then there's Spike..."
" Yeah, ok, I really have to know about that one... Spike. You let him run around the house in Sunnydale, despite the fact he was chipless, and he had been influenced by the First. He could've easily killed the potentials. Why is that, Buffy? What was the deal with you and Spike? I can't ... no, I know there wasn't anyone you gave that kind of pass to, besides him. Why?"
" I needed him, Faith. I needed someone who was on my side. I was fighting for my life, and all the lives in that house, don't you get that?"
" I get that, Buffy. But think about it. You needed someone on your side. Well, why didn't you try reaching out to your friends? No, instead you come on like the little dictator, not brooking any discussion about anything. It was your way or the highway, Buffy. What did you expect to happen?"
" We were in the fight for our lives. There wasn't time to have a democracy, Faith. Sure, it sounds nice, but in the end, someone had to make those hard decisions. The ones nobody else could or would make. You know that, you led them for awhile."
" Yeah, I got that. But even so, I listened. I might've shut them down, but I listened." Faith shakes her head, " God, we've done this enough. Can we not do this anymore? it's done, over, and we're past it."
" Yeah, you're right. We're past it." Buffy takes a drink. " There were other reasons, too, Faith."
" Huh?... Oh, Spike, right. Other reasons...ok, go ahead, lay it out for me."
" Look, Faith, when Willow brought me back, I was lost. I'd been somewhere wonderful. Being back here was like being in hell. It was bright and harsh and angry. I hated it. I felt more dead here, than there. Everybody, my friends, expected me to just ' get over it'. Be happy, be grateful for being ripped out of heaven... if that's what it was. Everybody, but Spike. He got it. He knew what I felt. He didn't expect me to be ' perky and happy'. He just accepted what I was," Buffy sees the look on Faith's face, and nods, " Ok, I get the irony. I wanted to be accepted as I was, but I didn't do that for you. Ok. But, I'm explaining why... I felt what I did for Spike. It was weird, but I couldn't feel anything... I was empty inside. It was like someone else was living my life, and I was just looking over their shoulder. I hated it, and I wanted to feel something. Spike made me feel something, even if only for a little while. Even if it was perverse, I felt something. I wasn't empty... not for those moments. Can you understand that?"
" Yeah, I get it, " Faith replies. I get it all too well.
" He did that for me. Made me feel again," Buffy's face goes wistful, " he took care of Dawn. When I was dead... god, that's so weird, thinking about that. But he watched over her, protected her. He didn't have to, he could've walked away, but he didn't. He stayed with her."
" Yeah, sounds like a peach, " Faith mutters, " yet, he tried to rape you, too."
" I remember, Faith, " Buffy says acerbically, " I was there, remember? Scared the shit out of me. If I hadn't stopped him..." Buffy's face goes bleak, " but I did stop him, and he left. He left town, left the country, I learned later, and got a soul... went through hell to get it, and more hell after he had it."
Faith doesn't say a word, she just stares at her.
"Why are you looking at me like that? Don't you realize what he did? He bought into a lifetime... hundreds and thousands of lifetimes, of torture for what he'd done. He remembered everyone he killed, saw every face, regretted each kill. You didn't see him in the basement, Faith. It drove him to the edge of insanity."
" Oh, really? I wouldn't know anything about that, " Faith says, ironically. Buffy looks down at her drink.
"He did it for me, Faith. Because he thought that's what I needed to love him. He went, and went through that for me," Buffy looks up, straight into Faith's eyes," it wasn't one thing, it was a combination of things, over time, Faith. Spike once said that I needed some monster in my men... I guess, in a way, he was right."
Faith grins, but it's not a pleasant grin. " Yeah, see that's what bugs me, B. You give Spike all this benefit of the doubt, but if you remember, he came to Sunnydale originally to kill you. He tried to kill you on a lot of occasions. He would've still been trying to kill you if the government hadn't put that chip in his head. It acted like a leash, and you seemed to forget what was behind that muzzle. But when I came here, I was on your side. I wanted to work with you, do the slayer thing. But you... " Faith makes an impatient gesture, " you acted like I was here to kill you. You never accepted me, never, B. I was always the outsider, the junior partner. Even though I could hold my own with you... I was at least as good as you, but you wouldn't admit it. Never. Then when the shit hit the fan, and Alan Finch died, did you stand by me? Don't think so... you were ready to turn me over to the police, right?"
" That's not true, Faith. I wanted to help you, but you were in Denial land."
" Bullshit, Buffy. I was in protecting my ass land, because surely no one else was watching my back. You had all the support, Buffy, but you wouldn't even toss me a crumb. You wanted to help me, alright, right into a jail cell or into the watcher's council equivalent," Faith glares at Buffy, " dammit, I was 17, alone and scared. Do you really think I didn't remember Alan Finches' face when I staked him?"
" Yet, when I tried to get you to look at it, face the fact that you killed him, you remember what was said?" You don't get it , Faith, you killed a man." And you're reply? " No, you don't get it, B. I don't care!"
" And you believed that? You bought that? "
" What was I supposed to believe, Faith? Tell me!"
" Maybe I was a human being, with feelings. Not some kind of monster, " Faith says, quietly." Maybe that I was frightened, and cornered, and needed you to keep trying."
Buffy stares down at the table. " I screwed up Faith, badly. I should've welcomed you, treated you like an equal. I didn't. I had lots of crap going on. Lots. I had to hold it together, and it kept falling apart on me," Buffy looks up at Faith, " I was afraid, Faith. I... before you came, another slayer, Kendra came. We didn't get along so well at first, either," Buffy looks away, " but we finally kind of got it together. She came back to help me with Angel... and... Drusilla killed her... it was my fault, because I went looking for Angel, when I should've stayed there to fight. I was tricked, and I lost her, and nearly lost Willow. I never forgave myself that stupidity. All that stupidity. When you came to town, I didn't want to get close to another slayer again. Didn't want to feel that again..."
They sit quietly for awhile, neither one wanting to break the silence. Finally, Buffy stands and grabs her glass. " I need another beer. What about you?"
Faith looks at her glass, then shakes her head, " Naw, I'm ok"
As Buffy goes to the bar, Faith leans back in her chair, thinking over their conversation. What the hell happened to her? The Buffy I knew was on top of it, or at least, tried to be. But... she's different now. Something really whacked her around. Why is she trying to make nice now? Not like she needs me, not as a friend, anyway. Yet, she's trying. She's reaching out. Maybe I should reach back...
" Faith?" Buffy says, approaching the table. She puts a beer down in front of Faith. She sits down.
" Hey, I said I was ok, B." Faith protests.
" I really hate drinking alone, ok?" Buffy looks almost desperate.
" ' K... thanks" Faith tilts the beer up and takes a good swallow. She looks over, seeing Buffy looking at her, fiddling with her beer bottle, seeming afraid to speak. " What?" Faith asks, a little impatiently.
" Nothing, " Buffy says, catching her tone. She lifts her bottle and takes a swallow.
" Buffy, what is it?" Faith says, more gently.
" What's wrong with me? I used to think I had it all together, I knew where I was going , what I was going to do. At least, I thought I did. Now I just seem to be drifting along, not even a clue where I'm going." She shakes her head in disgust, " I'm just wasting my life."
" Buffy, that's stupid talk, " Faith says, " you're on the Watcher's council. You're doing important stuff."
" That's bogus, Faith. It's a sham, " Buffy leans back in her chair, " only reason I'm there is because Giles insisted I be there. They don't want me there. I've tried to institute some changes, and I've managed a few things. But it's still so chaotic. Caleb did a real good job on them. Most of their resources are pfffft. Gone. Stuff that can't be replaced, at least... not with the resources they have. It's been a struggle. All the records of their holdings? Blow to bits. For awhile there? Looked like it was over," Buffy rubs her thumb over the top of her beer bottle. " Then something strange happened. Well, strange in a good way. Some foundation... the Samaritan Foundation, I think... suddenly came through with a very generous donation. I'm talking millions here, Faith. Enough to get us back in the game, so to speak. We were able to start recruiting slayers, even start a small training academy. Offer counseling to the families...so they'd understand what was happening to their daughters. If not for that grant..." Buffy eyes her surreptitiously, but Faith's face reveals nothing. " Still and all, I don't know what I'm doing there. I mean, what I can contribute? I've done. I really think I need to get out of there, but I don't have a clue what to do," Buffy frowns, " I just can't go back to being a civilian, Faith. I know too much, been through too much. " Buffy leans her face on her palms, " maybe I should just go somewhere, become a slayer again. I've never been much of the organization girl."
" C'mon, Buff. You're just going through a bad time. You'll figure it out, you always do."
"No, it's deeper than that. I just don't seem to care anymore. I wake up in the morning wondering why I'm even there. And then Angel dying... just blew me away. I just packed my bag, left a note for Giles, and took off. I've been AWOL for like the last 6 weeks or so. I called Giles, just to see how he's doing. That's how I knew about the memorial. I haven�t talked to anybody else, not even Dawn. I just needed... to not be there. Do you get it?"
Faith nods. She's been down that road all too recently.
" The PtB? They gotta be laughing at me really good right now. Look at us, Faith. Think back to a year ago. Who would've thought we'd be here, like this? I've been hearing lots of good stuff about you, Faith. I knew you were involved in something important... I just didn't know how important til today. What? Don't look at me like that! I try to keep tabs on people I care..." Buffy trails off. She sees Faith's look, and gets a little defensive, " hey, I care about you... believe it or not. You and Willow..." She sees Faith's grimace, " sorry."
Faith shrugs, " don't be. Moved on, it's over." She doesn't want to talk about it. She moves closer to her, and puts her hand on Buffy's. " Look, Buffy, you're gonna be ok. You'll find your purpose, what your meant to do, that's all you need. I know."
" I dunno, Faith. So many things I wish I'd done differently. You, Angel... I dunno. I look at you, and I wish I had what you've got. I don't know what happened, Faith, but you've got it all together. I see you in action, just little things... and you're so on top of it all. I used to feel like that, but you're living it. That's why I said what I said to Kira earlier. You're way ahead of me in everything..."
Not everything, Buffy. " Look, do we have to like have this competition thing going all the time? Can't we get past that?"
" I'd like to. I'd like to get past all the past crap. You know? Start again, maybe?"
" Cool. I'd like that."
They look at each other briefly.
" Do we hug now?" Buffy asks.
They look at each other again.
" NAW!" they answer at the same time. They're both buzzed enough to laugh at that.
" So what's the deal with you and Kira?"
" Me and Kira?" Faith asks. "No 'deal' Buffy. We're just co-workers... well, ok, I'm her boss, but we're just ... well, friends."
"Really? Gee, I thought... "
" You thought... what?"
" I dunno... I ... it seemed to be more than just friends. At least, that's the impression I got off her..."
"Your nuts, B."
Buffy mumbles something into her beer.
" Little louder, Buffy. I can't hear you through the bottle."
"I said, I can understand it"
"Well, despite what you can understand, Buffy, there's nothing going on between me and Kira."
" Maybe... from your end, anyway."
" Ok, vague that up a little more for me, B. I'd hate to understand what the hell you're talking about."
" Ok, well, I'm drunk enough so I can deny it tomorrow, saying the beer was doing the talking."
" Huh?"
" She isn't your first co-worker to have a crush on you, and not say anything to you about it." Buffy looks away.
" Ok, again I say... huh?"
" Oh, c'mon, Faith. Don't' even tell me you didn't..." Buffy stares at her in disbelief.
" What the hell are you...." the light bulb goes on. Faith stares back at her. " You?"
" No, that other slayer you worked with in Sunnydale." Buffy's tone is a bit edgy.
" Oh, please. You barely tolerated me. You were always acting so ...." The other light bulb goes on. " Oh, shit"
"Remember that day you came and pulled me outta class? I was taking a test, and you came to the window, and blew on it... then drew the heart? For a split second... well, I nearly peed my pants... til I got what you really meant..."
Faith shakes her head, " Naw, quit it Buffy. Fun's fun, but hey... it was all business with you. Don't be even trying to pull my leg here..."
" All business, huh? How 'bout that dance in the bronze, after we took out that nest? That was business?"
"Fuck, Buffy. That was just a dance."
" For you, maybe." Buffy says quietly.
" Get out"
Buffy just sighs. She takes another pull off her beer.
" Well, why didn't you say something?" Faith pushes her a little, playfully. Unfortunately, Buffy's a bit unsteady, and her beer spills... all over her. Faith laughs.
" Aw, crap..." Buffy exclaims," I'm gonna smell like a brewery now. Really not funny, Faith."
" Don't get your panties in a bunch, B, " Faith says, " We'll get you back to the hotel, and you can change into something a little less eau d' Heineken."
"Not staying at the hotel, Faith. Got a room at the Marriott downtown."
"Really? Gee, guess I shouldn't have had Kira check you out and your stuff moved over then..." Faith grins at her.
"WHAT? Hey... what's that about?"
" C'mon, B. I renovated the old Hotel. Thought it'd be good idea if all of Angel's friends stayed there... you know, kind of catch up, swap war stories... that kinda stuff. Don't be a party poop, now."
Buffy shrugs. "What the hell. Marriott wasn't all that great, anyway."
"So ummm... before we get you home, and you get all dried up and showered and pretending to be sober again, gonna answer my question?"
"What question?"
" Why didn't you say something."
Shit, thought I dodged that bullet. " Hey, I was still in high school, Faith. My sexuality... didn't extend to women, you know? Not then, anyway. I was kinda afraid of what I was feeling, so I just kinda pushed it away."
" That's too bad, B. We coulda had some fun." Faith grins at her, " So, ummm... when did you change your mind... about women that is?"
Buffy shrugs, " I dunno... just know the idea doesn't wig me out." She meets Faith's gaze, " I'm over the crush, Faith."
" Really?" Faith arches a brow, and leans in, just inches from Buffy. " When?"
" Oh, I guess around the time you started threatening my friends."
Faith grins and stands up. " Alright then. We better get you back to the hotel before you start stinking up the place."
"Well, thanks, " Buffy stands up.
As they make their way to the exit, Faith turns to Buffy.
" You know, you could've avoided the whole Spike thing"
"What're you babbling about now?"
" Well, they do allow conjugal visits at the prison. And, seeing as you need a little monster in your lovers..." Faith lets the suggestion trail off.
" I knew I shouldn't have told you," Buffy groans, " you're hopeless, Faith." She rolls her eyes.
" Yeah, but that's why you love me, B." Faith says.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
To be continued.
- 14
- 15
- 16
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Independence

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