Prologue:

After Buffy's death, Faith was brought to Sunnydale to take over slaying duties on the Hellmouth. The dark slayer agreed to assist, attempting to earn her redemption so she could one day join Buffy in heaven. When she arrived in Sunnydale she was introduced to the Buffybot.

Faith immediately adored the little Buffy robot, because she was such an exacting replica of Buffy. The brunette secreted the bot to her bedroom where she finally, in her mind, consummated her love for Buffy.

The little slayer bot was more than happy to play house with Faith since Spike had cast her away.

The scoobies and Buffybot assisted Faith in slaying duties for the summer. Meanwhile, Willow refined her plans to bring Buffy back from the grave, unbeknownst to Faith, Giles, and Spike.

Giles left town and everything was set in motion. However a roving band of demons had received information that the slayer was a robot, and came to town the same night that the scoobies were performing their spell.

Faith and Buffybot went out slaying alone. In the chaos, the slayers are separated and the demons have the opportunity to corner the little bot.

At the cemetery the scoobies' resurrection spell was interrupted. They ran for their lives, unaware of the outcome of their spell.

Faith finished her slaying, and went in search of the little bot, but she was too late. Buffybot was torn to bits by the demon motorcycle gang.

She hunched over the mess, crying her apology. She had failed Buffy again. She got up prepared to face the others.

A blinding pain struck Faith; she fell to the ground just as Buffy took her first breath within the coffin.

......................... Part 1 - Sorry Buffybot

"Buffy!" Faith gasped, struggling to get to her feet. She felt her. Buffy was back, and the small slayer was so afraid. The brunette could feel Buffy's terror; she could feel the tiny blonde shaking and clawing at her coffin.

"B, my poor little B!" Faith cried out as she raced in the direction of the cemetery.

..............

Xander and Willow backed up as the demons surrounded them. "Not good, Wil. Are you strong enough to work any magic here?"

"Xander!"

He looked past the demons and saw Anya and Tara running over. Xander shouted to the blonde witch. "Tara, I think Willow's tapped out. Can you do anything?"

He reached for a weapon as Tara began chanting.

.................

"Spike, over there." Dawn shouted in his ear as she leaned close on the motorcycle.

"Hang on, little bit." They jumped a car that blocked their way and approached the fiery wreckage. Dawn waited until the blonde vampire helped her down from the bike.

They went over to assess the scene. Dawn fell to her knees next to the sparking bot.

"The bot's done for, this time... poor Faith." Spike muttered as he picked up some of the parts.

"Buffy." Dawn sobbed, touching the bot's cheek.

The little Buffybot's eyes popped open. "Where did I go?"

Dawn looked at her in confusion. "What?"

"I was here, but then I ran away." Buffybot spoke slowly.

"You are here?" The teenager tried to comfort the failing bot.

"No, not me. The other Buffy."

Dawn's face changed. "Which way did she go?"

The little bot's eyes indicated the direction and then closed. "I'm going to sleep now, Dawn."

The brunette had run off already.

Part 2 - She's Alive

Faith jumped the fence to the cemetery and three motorcycle demons rode up.

"Hey girlie, wanna play?" The larger demon got off his bike.

"Shit! I don't have time for this!" Faith growled running past them.

"Get her!" They turned their motorcycles around and followed. The dark slayer climbed up onto a crypt and dove on the first one, snapping his neck.

"C'mon, hurry this up!" Faith shouted, grabbing the dead demon's chain and swinging it. They sped around her until she caught another by the neck and tossed the chain into his tire spokes. His head separated from his body.

"Never mind!" The last demon shrieked, riding away. Faith took off in the direction of Buffy's grave.

"Oh my god, B!" She stopped short when she noticed it dug up. Faith got on her hands and knees and reached in. "Nothing." The brunette stood up and looked around. "She's alive." She breathed out the words as a joyful sob.

...........................

Xander swung the ax. "Stay back!" The girls took refuge behind him. "Tara, how's that spell?"

"I... I can't." The blonde witch stuttered nervously.

"It's the Buffybot!" Anya called out relieved as Buffy stumbled past. She stood shivering, and unable to focus. The demons turned toward her.

"Slayer! I've been looking for you. You're so sweet. I'm gonna eat you up." Mag tilted his head back and laughed.

"B!" Faith screamed running up. "STAY THE FUCK AWAY FROM HER!" She picked one of the demons up and threw him, impaling him on the fencepost. "Who's next?!"

"Thank god, Faith's here." Anya clung to Xander.

"My words exactly." He turned and buried the axe in another.

"It's the other slayer!" The remaining demons yelled and ran, only Mag, the head demon remained.

"Get back here!" Mag commanded futilely.

"You gonna hurt my girl?! I don't think so!" Faith did a spinning kick, bringing him to the ground.

"Faith!" Xander tossed the slayer a knife. She grinned coldly as she plunged it into his heart.

"How's that, biker boy?!" Faith smirked at Xander and the others then turned toward Buffy, but she was gone. "B? Oh shit! Where'd she go?!"

"Calm down, Faith. We'll find the Buffybot." Xander stepped foward, but stopped dead in his tracks when he saw Willow's face. "What?"

"It's not the bot, is it?" The red head stared at Faith.

"No. It's Buffy. She's alive." Faith glanced around. "We have to find her. She's so scared and confused right now. I can feel it." She closed her eyes and listened. "This way." Faith ran and the scoobies followed after her.

Part 3 - Consequences

Faith and the scoobies rushed over just as Buffy and Dawn swung off the tower. The two Summers' girls landed roughly. Buffy rolled away from Dawn and scrambled back from the group.

"What's going on?!" Xander shrieked as he saw Buffy's condition.

"Shhh... Xan, cool it! You're going to scare her away." Faith tentatively approached the tiny, shivering slayer. "It's okay, B."

Willow watched in horror as the little blonde scurried to the corner like an animal.

"Buffy!" Dawn cried out, tearfully. "Please!"

Faith turned to the scoobies. "Take the Squirt home."

Tara gently led Dawn toward the Summers' house, while Willow hung back. "I can help." The red head walked toward the trembling slayer. "Come on, Buffy. It's me... Willow."

Buffy whimpered and crawled back. Her eyes were filled with terror.

"Red, please go with the others. I'll bring her home. I promise." Faith pleaded as she saw Buffy's panicked expression. Willow backed off and followed the rest of the scoobies nervously.

"B... shhhh... It's gonna be okay. See." Faith crouched down and held out her hand. "I'm not gonna hurt you. I'll take care of you this time. I'm here to help."

Buffy looked at her in confusion. The dark slayer's eyes filled with tears. "I missed you so much. We all did. shhhh... Don't be scared. I swear, it's gonna be okay. Jus' come to me."

The small blonde peered up through her tangled locks, but she didn't flinch as Faith crept closer.

"Feel it, B? The warmth? Our slayer connection? Come to me. I can keep you safe." The brunette edged a little closer. "That's it. Don't be afraid. C'mon... I'll take care of you. I'll never let anything hurt you again." Buffy slowly moved toward Faith. "Good girl... come here."

The small blonde paused and closed her eyes. She could feel the warmth and the hum coming off of Faith, and raced toward her. The dark slayer was caught slightly off guard but wrapped her arms around Buffy as they fell backwards to the ground.

"Shhh... see, it's okay." Faith spoke softly as the little slayer buried her face against her. "B... I can't believe it's really you." The brunette whispered as she lifted the shaking slayer, and headed toward the house.

............................

The scoobies stood anxiously in the living room waiting. Faith walked past them and gently set Buffy down on the sofa. "Get her a blanket."

Dawn raced up the stairs to get one, while Faith turned to the others. "I'm not going to ask why? Because I understand. Even though it was wrong..." She looked pointedly at Willow. "I understand."

Dawn had returned with the blanket which the younger slayer wrapped around the frightened blonde. "I'm here B. It's okay. shhh... Don't be scared."

Willow stepped toward Buffy and reached out. "Buffy?" The small slayer stared back with vacant eyes as Willow touched her; she shrieked and scrambled back into Faith's arms. The red headed witch looked hurt.

"No, Red. She doesn't know what's going on. It's not you. She's only coming to me out of instinct. It's our slayer connection." Faith held Buffy as she explained to the worried scoobies. "She can feel things even though she can't think straight. But she'll snap out of it. Let me take her upstairs and fix her up a bit." The brunette gently examined Buffy's hands. "Squirt, bring me the first aid kit."

Faith then lifted the small slayer into her arms, and made her way to the upstairs bathroom, where she carefully set the trembling blonde down. She started water for a bath.

"Here, Faith." Dawn came in and handed Faith the kit. She tried to peek past the brunette and see her sister.

"No, not yet. Just let me clean her up. Then you can see her. Lay out something for her to sleep in." Faith requested as she ushered the teenager out.

................

"Are we going to just let Faith run things?" Xander asked, slightly alarmed. "What if she still wants to hurt Buffy?"

Everyone gave him a look as if he were insane.

"Okay. So she's not going to hurt Buffy. But we're her friends we should be taking care of her." He stepped toward the stairs, but Spike blocked his way.

Willow glanced over teary-eyed. "Let Faith. Buffy at least isn't afraid of her. She knows Faith, but she doesn't know us."

Tara sat down next to her girlfriend. "Sweetie, you heard Faith. Buffy doesn't know what's going on yet. She's very confused, but they still have that slayer bond and that's what Buffy's sensing. She just needs time."

Willow cried into her girlfriends her arms. "She had to dig herself out. We left her in her coffin."

Tara peered up at the others, helpless. Spike growled and stormed out. Xander followed.

The blonde vampire grabbed him and threw him against a tree. "What the bloody hell did you little groupies do?!"

"C'mon Spike, don't tell me seeing Buffy just now wasn't the happiest moment in your whole undead life!" Xander shouted pushing the vampire off.

Spike shook his head, tears welling up in his eyes. "That's just the thing. There's always consequences."

Part 4 - Taking Care of Buffy

Faith carefully slipped the mud caked and tattered black dress off the little slayer as she spoke softly to her. "I'm just going to clean you off, okay?... shhhh... B, I'll take care of you."

The brunette glanced down at Buffy in her panties and bra. Her body looked exactly like the little bot's. It was perfect. Faith sighed as she reached behind Buffy and undid the clasp, slowly pulling her bra off. The older slayer just sat staring off into space as Faith undressed her.

"See. It's okay." Faith's breathing increased as she slid Buffy's panties off. She gently lifted the blonde and placed her in the warm water.

Buffy whimpered. Faith knelt close and the tiny slayer grabbed onto her. "No... shhhh... I got you." She delicately peeled Buffy off and sat her back in the tub. "Let me just wash you off."

Faith handled her as if she were glass. Lightly, she ran the soft bath sponge over Buffy's hyper sensitive skin, stopping occasionally when Buffy flinched.

The little slayer turned toward her and stared. "Faith?"

"Yeah, it's me. B, do you know where you are?" Faith leaned forward, excitedly. "B, just relax for now. We're going to take care of everything."

"Faith..." Buffy looked at her with disbelief as the brunette leaned forward and kissed her cheek.

"Okay, I'm gonna wash your hair. Can you stand?"

Buffy nodded so Faith pulled the drain to empty the tub then switched on the shower.

"You're... you're going to get wet." The small slayer managed to get out the words.

"B, I don't care about that." Faith laughed a little as she stood the weak girl up. "Here, lean on me." She meticulously worked the shampoo through Buffy's tangled locks still marveling that this was Buffy. It was as if all her prayers had been answered.

Carefully, Faith rinsed the golden locks and switched off the shower. She grabbed up a large towel and held it open. "Come here, B."

Buffy stepped into Faith's arms with the same dazed expression. The brunette just held her for a moment before drying her. Buffy didn't seem to mind. She was basking in some sense of comfort. The warm hum that came off of Faith dulled the pain of being alive. It was her only reprieve. She needed it.

"Okay, let's get some clothes on you... an' cover up your nude little butt." Faith chuckled as she hugged her tight again. She would be so happy if she couldn't feel the waves of misery coming off of Buffy. "B, I'm sorry you're hurting. It will lessen. I swear." Faith held her away and looked into her eyes. "I'll do whatever it takes."

The green eyes seemed to hold a slight glimmer of understanding before they gazed out at nothing.

Faith wrapped the towel around Buffy, then lifted her up. "B, open the door, will ya?"

The little blonde didn't respond. "Uh... it's okay, B. I got it." Faith reached over and got it open. She carefully carried Buffy to her bedroom. "Now don't be mad or nothing. But I've been sleeping in your room, okay?" She glanced down at Buffy who sat quietly. "I'll move though so you can have your bedroom back."

The blonde still said nothing.

"Dawn laid out some pajamas for you. Do you need help?" Faith gazed nervously at the silent slayer. "C'mon B... you're making me worried here." Still nothing. Faith walked back over and starting dressing her. "I don't mind helping, B. If you don't feel like doing something, I'll do it for you." She slowly buttoned the front of the cotton pajamas then leaned forward and hugged her. "B... oh B... you just don't know how much having you back means... you can't possibly know..." Faith choked back her tears, and stood up. "Dawn wants to see you. Is that okay?"

Buffy nodded. Dawn rushed in and pulled her sister into a hug. Faith watched as Buffy winced.

"Uh... Squirt, take it easy okay? B's still a little shook up."

Dawn let go. "Sorry Buffy. I'm just so happy." She looked at Buffy then stepped back. "What's wrong with her?!"

"Shhhh... nothing, Peanut. She's okay... I think she's just tired. Can you tell the others to wait until the morning to see her?" Faith asked as she gently led Dawn to the door.

"Yeah, okay." The little brunette peered back. "I'm glad you're back, Buffy."

Buffy said nothing. Faith smiled weakly as she closed the door. She walked back over to the tiny slayer. "B, I'll let you get some sleep. I'll just go downstairs and use the couch."

When Faith moved close, Buffy felt the comforting sensation and the warmth. She reached out and clung to the brunette closing her eyes as relief washed over her.

"Uh... you want me to stay up here with you?" Faith stroked her hair, lovingly. "I can if you want."

Buffy tightened her grip.

"Alright B. It's okay. I'm not leaving." She tenderly placed Buffy back on the bed and laid down next to her. The smaller girl crouched up against her, letting the tingling slayer hum lull her to sleep.

Part 5 - Ripped From Heaven

Faith woke up to find Buffy in her arms. She glanced down and smiled. *It wasn't a dream. B is right here. And I'm holding her!*

The little blonde whimpered as Faith tried to get up. She opened her eyes. "No... please."

Faith laid back down. "Okay. I won't get up... B, are you ready to talk?" Buffy shook head. "Alright... not yet then." She held Buffy tightly.

..................

"How long before they come down?" Dawn edged toward the stairs.

"Dawnie, just give them time." Tara guided her away and glanced over at Willow. The red head took the cue and went up to Buffy's room.

.............

Faith could hear the faint knocking. "Come in." She gently pulled away from Buffy.

"Hi. I wanted to check on Buffy."

"Yeah Red. Come over. She's talking a little now. Aren't ya, B?" Faith stood up to leave. "I'll give you some privacy."

As the brunette made her way to the door Buffy felt the painful chill.

"No!" She cried out and reached for Faith. "Please, you can't go."

Faith and Willow exchanged an anxious look. "I'll just be downstairs. It's okay, B."

Buffy shivered. "Please, everything's so cold. It hurts. Stay near me... please."

The brunette glanced at Willow who nodded. "Yeah, sure." Faith sat back on the bed next to the little slayer. Buffy stopped trembling and sighed. The agony subsided to a dull ache, but it was bearable.

The blonde gazed up at her best friend. "How long?"

"Awhile. Look let's not talk about that." Faith tried to shield her.

"No, Faith. She has right to know." Willow responded, peering back over at Buffy. "One hundred and forty-seven days."

The little slayer said nothing.

"B?" Faith gently rubbed her back. "Not now, remember. How about we get you something to eat?" She turned back to Willow.

"That's a good idea." The red head held out her hand, but Buffy took Faith's instead. The brunette gave the witch an apologetic look. "No, that's alright Faith. It's a slayer thing. I get it."

They headed into the kitchen with everyone eyeing the small slayer carefully. "Can I get you anything?" Dawn rushed over. "Are you hungry? I can make you something."

Buffy shook her head. Faith frowned and gestured for Dawn to do it anyway. "B, you have to eat. Just try a little taste."

Spike raced in, his jacket smoking. "Ouch! Bleedin'... oh, hey Buffy." He gave her a lovesick smile, stepping close. She edged away.

"Spike, do you have any smokes?" Faith took the cigarette he offered and headed for the porch.

"Where are you going?" Buffy's voice was tense.

"Just outside for a smoke." Faith caught the lighter Spike tossed her.

"I'll go with." Buffy followed after her. She couldn't bear being too far from the other slayer. The little blonde felt the only thing keeping her sane was the blanket of comfort that the slayer sensation provided. She needed Faith... needed her desperately.

Faith stood on the porch and lit her cigarette. "You sure those pjs are suitable for outdoor wear." She teased Buffy gently, but the small slayer said nothing. "B, don't get me wrong. I like you around me and all, but aren't you being unfair to everyone else?"

Buffy glanced at her coldly. "Unfair?... Unfair?! I'll tell you what's unfair. Being ripped from heaven... that's unfair." The little slayer suddenly sobbed.

"B... I didn't know. I... I... I'm so sorry." Faith flicked her cigarette away and took Buffy in her arms. "We'll figure a way to make this better. I promise."

Part 6 - Buffy's Need

Buffy sat at the table, watching Faith and the others. They were making a special dinner tonight. Giles was flying back; that provided some comfort. She wanted her watcher. Maybe he could help.

"B, you don't have to hang out in here with us. Go watch tv or something."

"No, I'm fine." Buffy settled back in the chair. She needed a certain proximity to Faith. It felt good.

"Faith, chop the vegetables please."

"Yeah Red. Squirt, throw me a knife." Faith laughed as Dawn literally tossed the knife at her. The brunette slayer spun around and caught it.

"Nice." Dawn giggled.

"Yeah, you should see me with a sword." They all laughed. Faith glanced back over at Buffy. She had a slight smile on her face. "That's it B. Show me that smile.... c'mon." Faith set down the knife and went over to tickle Buffy. "Come on Dawn, help me tickle this bratty sister of yours."

Dawn squealed and ran over as Faith picked Buffy up and carried her to the sofa. Buffy let her. Any touch from Faith felt so good. The two brunettes hovered over her, laughing as they gently tickled the little blonde. She gave them a slightly bigger smile.

"It's a start." Faith ruffled Buffy's hair and headed back to the kitchen with Dawn. The little slayer laid there relaxing until she felt the chill creeping up. She sat up shivering. The clammy feeling was unbearable; her skin felt as if it were being peeled off.

"Faith!" Buffy screamed, alarmed.

Willow and Tara rushed into the room. "Buffy, what's wrong?!" "Faith! Where's Faith?!" The little slayer cried, running to the kitchen. "Buffy! Wait!" The witches followed after her. They found her huddled on the floor sobbing.

"It hurts. It hurts."

Willow tried to pull her into her arms. "Come on Buffy, it's okay."

"No... where's Faith?" She looked up with tears streaming down her face.

"She took Dawn to the store. We needed some things for dinner. Buffy, they'll be right back." Tara helped her up.

"Take her to her room." Willow suggested. "Oh god Tara, she shaking like leaf. Here." The little red head tried to lead them up the stairs, but Buffy struggled.

"No. I'll wait down here. Please."

"Tara, get her a blanket." Willow turned back toward Buffy. "What is it? What's wrong, Buffy? Tell me, please."

"I... I... don't know. It... just hurts..." The tiny slayer was shivering so much she could barely speak.

They sat with her as Buffy started to hyperventilate. "Tara, maybe there's a spell." Willow was becoming desperate.

Buffy curled in a ball and started rocking back and forth. Willow reached out to touch her, but Buffy pulled away. "No, don't touch me. It hurts."

.........................

"Hey Red, they didn't have those water chestnut things." Faith called out as her and Dawn walked in.

"Faith, come here now! It's Buffy!" Willow shouted.

"What?!" The brunettes ran into the room. "What the hell is going on?! B?" Faith knelt next to her.

"Faith!" She crawled into Faith's arms and the shivering stopped. She started to breathe normal.

The dark slayer looked up at the others. "Red, what happened?"

"I don't know, as soon as you left she... she got like this." Willow peered over at Buffy who quieted in Faith's arms.

"I'll take care of her. It's alright, Squirt." She looked at the frightened teenager. "She's going to be okay. I promise you, Dawn. Just go in the kitchen and help them out." Faith lifted Buffy up and carried her to the bedroom.

She set her on the bed, and got up to close the door. Buffy sat up and reached out. "Don't leave!"

"B, I'm not going anywhere. Now tell me what's going on? What's wrong?" Faith sat down next to her and Buffy crawled back into her arms.

She sighed as the warmth enveloped her. "Nothing. It's okay now. You're back."

"What?" Faith pulled away. "Do you mind telling me what you are talking about?"

"It's hard to explain. Faith, you can tell when I'm nearby, right?"

Faith smiled. "Always."

"It's that... the warmth. When I was... dead, everything was warm and comforting. I felt safe and at peace." Tears welled up in her big green eyes. "But now... now everything hurts. The only thing that is similar, that is comforting, is our slayer connection. Please don't leave. I can't stand it."

"B, I have to tell you something." Faith stood up. "I'm not proud of this. But I was... It was... so frickin' bad when you were dead. I couldn't stand it. And well, they... the scoobie pack, they had this robot thing."

Buffy stared in confusion. "What do you mean?"

"B, I... I love you. There, I said it." She sat down and looked away. "I never thought you'd forgive me for everything. I don't even know that you have. You just need me for some reason, and I'm telling you that I'll be here for you because I love you."

"What?" Buffy shook her head. "What are you talking about? And what do you mean about that robot thing?!"

"I... I sorta... um... I had sex with her." Faith peeked over at Buffy, nervously.

"Huh?" The little blonde was floored.

Part 7 - Giles Returns

"Why?" Buffy shook her head. It was too much for her to absorb, and she didn't want to hear it.

Faith rolled her eyes. "Why do you think?"

"I don't want to know this right now. Please." The little slayer put her hands over her ears.

"Sorry, B." Faith blushed as she moved to leave the room.

"NO!" Buffy dropped her hands and reached for her. "Please, don't go."

Faith just nodded and sat back down.

"Just hold me. I need this... please."

"Okay B.... okay." The brunette scooted back, still sitting up. She leaned against the headboard while Buffy sat in her lap. The little slayer rested her cheek on Faith's chest and sighed. It felt so nice... so warm.

She laid there listening to Faith's heartbeat. "Faith, you'll stay?.... please."

"Yes." Faith closed her eyes as she held Buffy. She could feel the little slayer relaxing. Buffybot may have been identical in looks, but this tingling that her and Buffy share wasn't present. The brunette struggled to keep herself from just kissing Buffy. She glanced down to see two beautiful green eyes staring back. "What?"

"I forgive you." Buffy closed her eyes, and slowly fell asleep. Faith waited for a moment then carefully slipped from the room.

....................

"Red, can I talk to you?" Faith gestured for Willow to step outside.

"Yeah Faith, what is it?" The witch followed her out, concerned.

"There are some side effects I think. She's only holding together because our slayer connection dulls the pain." Faith turned back and looked at the red head. "It's hard to explain. The feeling that we get when the other is close. It's kinda like a drug, and so that's what she's relying on. But that's not right, is it?" The brunette peered over, her eyes filled with worry. "I mean, don't get me wrong. I love Buffy, and I would like nothing better then to be around her all the time. But.. but not like that. I want her to want me, not suffer because I'm gone. Can you fix her?"

Willow watched the young slayer with surprise. She was impressed by Faith's sudden unselfishness. Here she was with Buffy needing her near at risk of actual physical pain. It was the ultimate control that Faith once craved, and she didn't want it. Willow smiled. "Faith, Giles will be back tonight. We will figure something out. Thanks for telling me."

"Uh... yeah. No problem." The brunette leaned back and lit a cigarette. *I hope I'm doing the right thing.*

......................

"Hey, G-man." Faith smiled happily as she opened the door.

"Faith." Giles grinned back, pleased with the young slayer's enthusiasm. "Good to see you."

She held out her hand shifting nervously from one foot to the other. Giles looked down at her hand and smiled as he pulled her into a hug. "How's my youngest slayer?"

Faith could feel tears well up in her eyes. "I'm good. It's B." She stepped back as she fidgeted. "We all kinda missed you, ya know. Maybe don't leave again?" She looked down quickly. "Here, lemme take your bag. We fixed up the basement as a guest room. Hope you don't mind."

"No, that will do until the tenants move out of my townhouse." He handed her one of his suitcases. "Where is Buffy?"

"She's asleep upstairs." Faith headed down to the basement, calling out. "But you can wake her. She has to get up anyway... for the party Red planned."

"Yes, alright then." Giles went up to Buffy's room and knocked softly.

"Come in." Buffy woke slowly, noticing Faith gone. She closed her eyes and focused her senses. It was okay though she could feel Faith was still in the house. She didn't feel as warm, but she could deal. Her eyes lit up as Giles walked in.

"Buffy." His eyes filled with tears as she ran to him and hugged him tight. "Unbelievable." He held her for a moment then looked at her. "It's really you."

"In the flesh." Faith laughed from behind him. "Hey B, you doin' alright?"

Buffy nodded and pulled Faith into the room with them. "Yes."

"No, uh.... I have to help Red. Besides you guys need some time to talk." Faith gave the little slayer a look. Then leaned close and whispered. "Tell him everything." She left the room with Giles peering over, concerned.

"What is it, Buffy?"

Part 8 - Explaining the Predicament

"This is difficult to explain. I'm going to try and put something into words, that there is no description for. So bear with me." The little slayer stood up to pace. "It's just that before, when I was... dead." Buffy ignored Giles wince. "I felt warm and safe. Everything was perfect and I was done."

The watcher's face betrayed his horror, once he realized the implications. "Buffy, I'm sorry. I've spoken with Willow and Xander. It seems that they had convinced themselves that you were in some sort of hell dimension. I had no idea. I would have never allowed this."

"I know that. I don't blame you. And that's not the point. Aside from the burning desire to be dead again, I have another problem." Buffy chuckled bitterly. "My whole body aches. It feels like I'm being ripped apart sometimes. It's nearly unbearable. I've never felt pain like this." She turned away ashamed. "All I'm focused on right now is eliminating it."

Giles studied her in confusion. "Well, you seem okay, Buffy. A little overwrought, perhaps, but none the less, you look healthy."

The little slayer turned back toward him, nervously. She was uncertain that she wanted to admit the rest. "It's... it's because Faith is here."

"I'm not following you, Buffy. What are you trying to tell me?" Giles wrinkled his brow.

"It's our slayer connection... the hum is soothing. It's the only thing that is keeping me sane. Something must have gone wrong." She gave him a pained expression. "I wasn't meant to be here or they brought me back wrong."

The watcher frowned and removed his glasses. "I see. Hmmm... so something about Faith's proximity provides relief." He looked at her carefully while he cleaned his glasses. "Can you better describe the sensation? Does Faith share it?"

"Yes, we both always have. But now it's... I don't know... more intense." Buffy covered her face. "I need her. I don't know if I even like her, but I need her. I forgive her for everything from the past because that's another lifetime ago, and just doesn't matter anymore." She dropped her hands and stared at him. "I don't want to make you uncomfortable so stop me if I am."

"No, continue. Please. This information could be useful." Giles sat down while Buffy paced.

"I feel guilty. Faith thinks that she loves me, and I only care because I know that will keep her near... and I need her now. Does that make me a bad person?"

"Bad isn't the right word. You've been through a lot, Buffy. But you have to be very careful with Faith. I'm not sure that you are aware of this, but we have always thought that Faith's feelings were stronger than you realized. This isn't news to the rest of us."

"What? You knew... all of you knew. Did she tell you?" Buffy peered at him, surprised.

"No. But it became even more apparent when she returned. Faith was the least accepting of your death." The watcher spoke quietly as he placed his glasses back on.

"Oh..." Buffy became subdued, lost in thought as she sat down next to him. "OH!" She looked up at her watcher, her eyes big as if something just dawned on her.

"What is it?"

The little blonde seemed hesitant to mention it.

"Please. I need to know everything." Giles urged her.

"Uh... Is that why you suppose she slept with that robot thing, you know, Spike's toy." She cringed.

Giles coughed, suddenly uncomfortable. He cleared his throat. "She told you about that?" He seemed rather shocked.

"Yes. I didn't know what to make of it at first... but now... Oh who am I kidding, I still don't, but at least I'm not as angry." Buffy ran her hand anxiously threw her blonde locks. "Maybe we should go downstairs now. I'm getting cold again. Faith must have gone outside. If we go downstairs, I'll feel better."

Giles noticed her become pale. He reached over and touched her forehead. She felt like ice. "Yes, let's go downstairs."

Part 9 - Welcome Back

When they made their way downstairs, Buffy wasn't surprised to find Faith on the porch smoking. It was dark already and Spike was there.

"Hey B." She gave the little blonde a warm smile as she took a drag. Spike scrambled to his feet.

"Hi Buffy." He ran his hand over his hair, and straightened his shirt. He wasn't wearing his typical duster and t-shirt. The blonde vampire was wearing a brown leather flight jacket and a button up shirt.

Buffy tilted her head, and looked at him strangely before replying. "What are you doing here?"

"B? It's a party. C'mon." Faith suddenly felt sympathy for Spike. *Hell, that's probably how she'd treat me if it weren't for this weird slayer thing.* Faith felt inexplicably annoyed and resisted Buffy's attempt to take her hand.

"Faith." Buffy's tone was one of agitation. She needed the contact. The little slayer grabbed her roughly in a bear hug and squeezed. The warmth coated her like honey. Buffy took a deep breath and sighed. "Okay." She stepped back, casting a parting glance at Spike as she went in. "Don't be long."

Spike peered at Faith in confusion.

Faith waved it off. "Don't ask."

.......................

Dawn raced around excited as the guests arrived. She had just let Clem in, but was most excited about Angel and Cordelia coming down. She wondered if they would bring Wesley.

"I'll get it." The teenager called out as the doorbell rang. It was Angel. "Hi."

"Hi Dawn." He gave her a hug and began the introductions. "This is Fred and Gunn. You know Wesley." Cordelia stepped in smiling.

"Come on in. I think everyone is here. Let me get Buffy." Dawn shut the door behind them and shouted. "BUFFY!"

"Dawn, stop yelling." Buffy came around the corner and stopped dead in her tracks. "Angel?"

Faith and Spike walked in from the back, laughing. They both froze also.

"Angel." The brunette nodded at him and the others. "Hey." Her and Spike hurriedly went into the other room with the rest of his entourage, leaving Buffy and Angel alone.

"Buffy." He approached her slowly hugging her. "How are you doing?"

The little slayer pulled gently away. The contact was slightly unpleasant... as was touching anyone other than Faith.

Angel gazed at her then asked. "Do you want to talk?"

"No. Please, I'm all talked out for now." She smiled weakly, feeling a chill. "Faith!"

Buffy suddenly shouting, caught Angel off guard. "Buffy, what is it?" The vampire reached for her, but she brushed him off as she ran into the other room.

"Where's Faith?"

Cordy looked up. "I think she and Spike went outside."

The small slayer rushed out the door. "FAITH! FAITH!" She ran down the street to find Spike and Faith fighting some vampires. Angel was in hot pursuit with Wesley and Gunn close behind.

"DAMN YOU!" Buffy screamed, snatching the stake out of Faith's hand and shoving her out of harm's way. "Don't go slaying without me!" The little blonde ranted as she staked each vamp in turn, in a matter of seconds.

Everyone blinked in shock. Buffy was never that deadly... no one was. They all turned and stared at her. She tossed the stake to the ground and grabbed Faith's hand, pulling her along.

"Don't do that, okay?" Buffy lightly chastised Faith.

"We didn't exactly schedule it, B. We got jumped." Faith glanced at the others embarrassed that she was being dragged about. "Cut it out!" The brunette pulled away, but Buffy gave her a desperate look. "Okay, I'm coming. Just cool it." Faith nodded slightly toward the gawking group. But the little slayer didn't care; she was cold.

"Please." Buffy whispered.

"Yeah... alright." Faith gave her a quick hug, and Buffy relaxed.

"Thanks." The little blonde walked past everyone and back into the house. "Don't be long."

Cordelia raised an eyebrow. After the door closed, she turned to Faith. "Okay, what was that all about?!"

Faith took the cigarette that Spike offered. "It's complicated. Can we leave it at that for now?"

.................

"Buffy, I think we should talk." Angel followed the little blonde into the kitchen.

"About what?" Buffy gave him a disinterested look.

"About that! About everything. What's going on?" He reached for her and this time she just yanked her arm away.

"Don't touch me!"

"Why... I don't understand. What did I do?" His eyes betrayed his hurt.

"Nothing. I just can't stand to be touched." Buffy faced away, occupying herself with fixing her drink. She glanced at the cake that the scoobies had bought. It said Welcome Back on it. She gave a wry smile before looking up again.

"Buffy, you just virtually demanded Faith hug you. What do you mean you can't stand being touched?" Angel touched her arm lightly. "Please... Buffy."

She cringed at the contact, but remained still. "I can't explain it. Ever since I came back all I feel is this terrible pain. The only thing that blocks it, is for me to draw off of Faith. Our slayer connection allows that. If Faith isn't near, there's no relief for me. I've told Giles..." Buffy eyes met his as she spoke with some irony. "Apparently when my friends brought me back, their spell was interrupted. He thinks it might be related to that." She shrugged it off as he tried to comfort her. "Don't..... please."

Angel held up his hands. "I'll give you space. If there is anything we can do..."

"I know." Buffy took his hand and squeezed it briefly.

Dawn and Faith could be heard laughing as they ran in. "No way, Squirt."

"Please." The teenager pleaded as they passed through the room.

Buffy and Angel stood for a moment, listening to the others in the house.

"As if!" Cordelia was snubbing Spike.

Clem was chatting with Fred and Gunn, and Wesley and Giles could be heard conferring. Somewhere else in the house Xander and Anya could be heard bickering while Tara and Willow were obviously kissing.

The former lovers shared a smile then joined the others. "So what's this I hear?" Angel went over and picked a squealing Dawn up. "Starting to break all the boys' hearts that's what Faith tells me." He winked at the younger slayer.

Buffy stood back and enjoyed the playfulness of the group. Faith turned and the silly grin she was wearing, changed into a warm smile as she gazed at her fellow slayer. Buffy felt something. Something more than just their slayer connection. She blinked in surprise, and the moment was broken. Faith had rushed over to help Spike and Angel torment Dawn.

"Enough... stop!" The youngest Summers screamed between giggles. "I give. I give.... Buffy, save me!" She shrieked, laughing.

Buffy smirked then clapped her hands. "Okay, stop tickling Dawn."

Willow came out of the kitchen carrying the main dish with Tara close behind. "It's time for dinner."

Part 10 - Not Too Close

The party went late into the night. Buffy found herself actually having fun. She watched everyone more than she participated. But she found that Faith and Spike were quite a crack up together. Angel and Cordelia seemed to get along, and Fred was an interesting character. Gunn was charming as well. She sat quietly, occasionally focusing on the delicious hum that came off of Faith.

Cordelia sat talking to Gunn and Fred. Gunn glanced back at Buffy. "She seems pretty normal. Maybe a little quiet but otherwise..."

"Yeah, normal. Right now she's getting lovesick smiles from three different people. I'd say that's pretty normal for Buffy. But usually one of them is Xander. I guess he finally moved on." Cordy commented wryly as she glanced at Xander in the corner with Anya. They were in some heated debate with Clem, Willow, and Tara.

"Well, I hate to break this party up, but it's getting pretty late." Angel stood up.

"Yep, I better get going too. Sunrise and all." Spike held out his hand, and Angel shook it.

Faith shoved at them playfully. "Get a room."

"He's the nancy-boy." Spike chuckled as he made his way out. "Wanna quick smoke, slayer?"

"Uh-huh." The brunette trailed after him.

"Don't go far!" Buffy called out, blushing as the others looked at her. "What?!"

"Nothing." Angel reached down and gave the little blonde a hug. "Take care."

"You too. Thanks for coming." Buffy waved to the group as they made their way out.

................

The little slayer took a long, hot shower then laid in bed listening to Faith in the shower. She smiled at the realization that soon the brunette would be laying next to her, and she'd have all night of that yummy warmth.

"Hey." Faith said casually as she came in and flicked off the light. Buffy glanced at Faith's sleep attire. She noticed the dark slayer was just wearing a tank top and panties.

"Don't you want to put on something more?" Buffy shifted uncomfortably as Faith climbed in the bed.

"Huh?" The brunette rolled over and stared at her. "Whaddya mean?"

The little slayer swallowed. "Something more, as in more clothes."

Faith lifted the blanket and glanced down at herself. "Nope. I'm good. Goodnight B."

"I... I was hoping that you'd..." Buffy paused, nervously. Faith opened her eyes.

"What?"

"That you'd hold me. But I don't know if I'd feel comfortable unless you put on more clothes." Buffy blushed.

Faith gave her a wicked smile. "Well you don't know until you try." She reached out and pulled Buffy against her. She could feel the heat spread through her instantly; it was intoxicating. Faith struggled to catch her breath. "How's that?"

Buffy was panting too. "It's alright... I guess." Her eyes closed halfway as the heat focused between her legs. *Oh god... ohhhh... this feels good.* The little blonde relaxed as she placed her arm around Faith's waist and rested her cheek on Faith's wonderful chest. *Mmmmmm...*

"Yeah, it's pretty alright." Faith ran her hand lightly down Buffy's back. The little blonde trembled. "Are you okay, B?"

"Uh-huh." Buffy squeezed her eyes shut. She knew she was extremely wet, and hoped that Faith didn't pick up on it.

The brunette concentrated on keeping her breathing normal, but was failing miserably. Buffy adjusted herself and in the process, slid her leg between Faith's.

"B?"

"Yes?"

"I can't sleep. This might be too close." Faith whispered, mentally kicking herself for saying it.

"No, it's not too close." Buffy rubbed herself along the length of Faith's front, causing the brunette to groan.

"B, please... I can't take much more... yunno?" The young slayer whimpered, squeezing her eyes shut.

"Uh-huh." Buffy mumbled as she ground her body against Faith's. The sensation was electrifying. They both moaned loudly.

"Um... B?... can I?" Faith gasped as she felt the rush between her legs. "Please?"

"Yes." Buffy's response was so faint that if it weren't for her slayer hearing Faith would have missed it.

The brunette growled as she flipped Buffy onto her back and lifted her hands above her head. Buffy gazed into Faith's smokey stare and smiled. Faith immediately crushed her lips to Buffy's.

Part 11 - Faith Shares Her Warmth

Buffy let herself focus on Faith's lips moving over her own. *So soft... mmmm...*

The brunette broke the kiss slowly. They both were out of breath. Faith stared down at her at she unbuttoned Buffy's pajama top. The little slayer laid very still. She was extremely nervous, but it felt too good to stop.

"It's okay, B. Just relax. Let me make you feel good." Faith whispered as she lowered her mouth to Buffy's breast.

"Oh god!" The little blonde gasped, arching her back. Her hands tangled in Faith's hair as she felt the younger girl's hot breath tickling her nipples. "Faaiiithhh."

Faith caught Buffy's nipple gently between her teeth as she slipped her hand into Buffy's pajama bottoms. She groaned when she felt how wet the little slayer was. "B... ahhh... yeah... B... I want you... you're wicked hot.... mmmm... I sooo wanna taste you... let me..."

Buffy moaned. "Yessss."

Faith tugged down the pajama bottoms and lowered herself between the little slayer's legs. "Buffy..." She leaned up on her elbows and gazed up at the older girl. Buffy was panting as she watched Faith bring her mouth down to her.

"OH MY GOD! AHHHHHH! OH YES! OH! OH FAITH! OH! OH! I... I... UUUH... OH... Pleaseeee..."

Faith closed her eyes as she worshipped Buffy with her mouth. Nothing compared to this. The brunette held on tightly as Buffy moved against her lips.

"OMIGOD... FEELS SO GOOD... YESSS... OH PLEASE... MMMMM...MORE... THERE... YESSS.." Buffy reached down and dragged her nails against Faith's shoulder drawing blood. The brunette didn't notice as she sucked gently on the little slayer's clit.

Faith was so excited; she reached between her own legs touching herself as she tasted Buffy, but she held off her own orgasm, wanting to cum with the Buffy. The little slayer was so very close.

Buffy reached back and grabbed the headboard, snapping it. "AHHHHHH!" Her eyes rolled back as she came hard and fell to the bed, sweating and gasping. "Oh that felt soooo... amazing.." She giggled and laid back stretching.

Faith lifted her head, and chuckled. "Holy fuck, B.... You sure are loud." She peered up at the blushing blonde.

"I'm sorry. I just..." Faith silenced her with a kiss.

"It's okay. But I think the headboard has had it." The brunette fell next to her laughing. "Fuck, I need a cigarette."

"Yeah, let's go have one." Buffy reached for her pajamas and stood up to get dressed. She would have fallen flat on her face had Faith not caught her.

"Careful, little one. Give us a minute." The brunette easily picked up the giggling slayer and placed her back on the bed.

Faith stared at her, smiling.

"What?" Buffy asked, slightly embarrassed.

"Nothing." The brunette grinned at her. "It's just the first time I've heard you laugh since..." Faith stopped short of saying it, but the little slayer waved it off.

"Oh?" Buffy grinned back and hugged her. "Don't you want a cigarette or something? `Cause I think I could use one too." She giggled again.

"Might as well. I'm pretty sure you woke up the whole house, anyway." Faith jumped up and grabbed a pair of jeans.

"No!" Buffy appeared horrified. "You don't think they heard, do you?!"

"Naaahhh... I'm sure no one heard you yelling or breaking the headboard." Faith laughed as Buffy threw a shoe at her. She dodged it and slipped out the door.

"Wait! Wait for me." Buffy hurriedly got dressed and raced after her.

Part 12 - Finding Some Fun

Buffy woke up and rolled over. Faith was gone. The little blonde closed her eyes and focused. Faith was nearby. She relaxed and stretched, smiling. This was the best she'd felt... ever. The slayer put her pajamas back on, and padded down the stairs.

"Did anyone make me breakfast?" She grumbled as she made her way into the kitchen. Tara gave the little slayer a mischievous grin and handed her a cup of coffee.

"Willow's making pancakes, and Dawn's going to play hooky today. Faith wants to take us to Six Flags. She thinks we all need to find the fun."

Buffy arched an eyebrow. "Sounds like Faith. Where is she anyway?"

Willow came back in the kitchen. "They're playing on the Sony Playstation that Spike gave them."

"Spike? Where'd he get the money?" Buffy went into the other room to see Faith and Dawn playing a boxing game.

"You've had it slayer." Dawn laughed as her character threw several punches knocking Faith's kung-fu character backwards.

"Shit! I'm getting a thumb cramp!" Faith cursed. She clicked and did a high kick then a flip. The young slayer sensed her counterpart and turned around to smile at her. Dawn used the opportunity to deal the final blow. "Damn!"

The teenager jumped up laughing. "I win! I win! Now you have to ride the Viper with me."

"Okay, Squirt." Faith smirked at Dawn's little victory dance. "You're worse than your sister."

"Hey!" Buffy sat down next to her. "Care for a real challenge?"

"Bring it on." The brunette grinned grabbing the control. "What do you want to wager?"

Buffy thought for a moment. "Okay, if I win you stop smoking."

"Huh?! No way!" Faith frowned at that suggestion.

"What's the matter? You afraid you'll lose?" The little slayer taunted her.

"No. I'll kick your butt. I just have to think of something of equal value." Faith turned to Dawn. "Any ideas, Squirt?"

The teenager smiled. "Yeah, if Faith wins I get to go slaying with you guys."

"NO!" Both slayers declared in unison.

"Never mind then." Dawn stomped out of the room.

"Sorry Squirt." Faith called after her. Buffy grinned and leaned forward.

"C'mon Faithy. There must be something you want."

The dark slayer gave her a sly smile. "Nope. Nothing else I can think of. But I'll tell you what, if I win you don't nag me about smoking."

"Deal. Pick your character." Buffy settled back.

"Wait a minute. You've played this." Faith's eyes narrowed. "Are you hustling me?"

The little blonde's eyes glittered. "I don't know what you're talking about."

..........................................

"Tara, what have you found about the spell?" Willow leaned over her girlfriend's shoulder as she mixed the pancake batter.

"It's pretty vague. Will Giles be back from the Magic Box soon? He's supposed to pick up some books we need." The blonde witch leaned back and kissed her girlfriend.

"Yep." Dawn sauntered in and sat down. "He said he'd be back for breakfast." They turned and smiled at the little intruder.

"Okay Dawnie. No, you've had enough coffee." Willow pulled the mug away. "Go get dressed."

"Ugh! Fine."

The witches laughed as Dawn made a big show of heading upstairs.

"Teenagers." Tara arched an eyebrow at Willow then pulled the little red head into her lap.

Part 13 - The Gay Thing

"Are you having fun, B?" Faith glanced over at the little blonde who was peering out at the steep incline and clutching the safety bar nervously.

"It doesn't suck." Buffy smiled over at her until the car dropped then she screamed and clung to the brunette. Faith chuckled and lifted her hands.

"Quite a drop, isn't it?!" She laughed at Buffy's terrified expression. "Smile, B." Buffy looked up just in time for the camera flash. "Now that was a kodak moment."

The tiny blonde got out rather shakily. "Okay, enough rollercoasters for me. Go with Dawn on the next one."

Faith studied her carefully. "Are you sure, B?"

Buffy steeled herself against the possible impeding discomfort. She smiled reassuringly. "Yes, you go ahead. I'll be fine. I'll just sit with Tara and Willow for awhile."

Dawn handed her ice cream cone to Buffy. "Don't eat it. Let's go Faith."

"Hey! I'm not going to just let this melt on me." Buffy's announcement fell on deaf ears as the two brunettes ran off.

Tara looked at the little slayer worriedly. "Are you going to be okay?"

"Yeah, I'll buy her another." Buffy said as she took a lick.

Willow rolled her eyes. "She didn't mean the ice cream."

"Oh. Uh... yeah. I think I'm alright... so far." Buffy peeked over at the two witches nervously as they all sat at a table to wait. "You won't think less of me if I tell you something."

"That depends on what you're going to tell us." Willow teased as Tara elbowed her.

"Wil!"

"Then no." The red head giggled and looked back at her best friend. "This wouldn't have anything to do with that ruckus we heard last night would it."

Buffy blushed. "You heard?"

This time Tara rolled her eyes. The little slayer cleared her throat.

"Yes, it has to do with Faith but... well.." She hesitated and looked back at the couple. "I feel weird talking about this."

"Oh go ahead. You won't shock us. We're unshockable." Willow stated with an emphatic nod.

"Well, Faith and I... we sorta.."

"Buffy, we got it. You had sex. Now get to the news part."

Tara elbowed Willow to be quiet again. "Shhh.. let her talk."

"Thanks Tara. Okay... uh." Buffy got up and began pacing. "Since we had... sex... um... it's the pain thing... well, it's not as bad. See, like right now I should be huddled up in agony. Faith is out of range. I can't feel her but I'm okay... for a little while."

The witches exchanged a confused look. "So what do you think it is?" Willow wrinkled her brow. "Faith's super talent or something?" The red head chuckled at the last part because it made Buffy blush a bright red. Willow continued to tease her. "So you're off the boys now... Faith must be good?" The witch wiggled her eyebrows.

"That's not the point. But yes." Buffy gave a naughty smile, causing the girls to laugh. "She's not without skill."

"I bet." Tara chimed in, getting a look from her girlfriend. "Uh... I mean.. she's a slayer and all." The blonde witch shrugged.

"What I mean is there's something palatable to this pain issue." Buffy ran her hand through her hair.

"No pun intended." Willow giggled.

"Can you two get your mind out of the gutter for five minutes?!" The little slayer gave an exasperated sigh. "What I'm trying to say is that it's not all in my head. And don't bother denying that you all were thinking that." She wagged her finger at them. "I'm not stupid, you know. And plus I have slayer hearing."

"I'm still not following you?" Willow tilted her head and looked up at Buffy.

"How bad of a person does it make me if I'm having sex with someone because I need it?" The little blonde peered nervously at her friends.

"What do mean, Buffy? Don't you want to?" Tara asked, confused.

"Yes... I mean, no... I don't know." Buffy shook her head. "I don't know if I love her. I mean, I'm not gay so..." The witches watched her closely as she floundered. "Ugh! I just don't know anything... except that it feels good." She smiled a little. "Really, really good."

"Isn't that enough for now?" Willow asked, stealing a look at Tara.

"I guess. I just don't want to hurt Faith."

"Buffy, I hate to be the one to say it, but it's too late to worry about that. She's very much in love with you." Tara interjected, and Willow nodded in agreement.

The little slayer sat and covered her face. "I was afraid you'd say something like that. It's just that once this whole weird side effect is cured, I don't know if I'll want to do the whole gay thing."

"Gay thing! What the heck do you mean by that?!" Willow stood up offended. "Buffy, this isn't about doing any "thing" as you so put it. It's about being in love with someone. Either you are or you aren't? But don't ask me to justify you using someone for a pure experiment of sorts. I assumed you had feelings for Faith. If you don't, don't lead her on. End it before it goes any further or you'll hurt her worse."

Part 14 - Don't Tell

Buffy was starting to feel ill. *Where is Faith and Dawn?!* She checked her watch again, giving a weak smile to the witches as she shivered.

"Buffy, you don't look well." Willow glanced over at the little slayer who was as white as a sheet. "Maybe, we should start looking for them."

"No. It's okay. If I'm going to break it off with Faith I have to get use to this. I'm sure she won't want to be around me." Buffy groaned and doubled over.

Willow winced as she watched her best friend suffering. *What if she was right? What if Faith left? Buffy might not survive.*

Buffy curled up tight as her teeth chattered. "Wil, I don't know how much I can take."

Willow looked at her girlfriend. "Find Faith." Tara nodded and went off in the direction that the brunettes had taken.

"Buffy, maybe you're right. Maybe, you shouldn't say anything to Faith... for now." The red head could feel the guilt tearing at her, but she couldn't bear to see Buffy suffer either.

"Yes. Just for a little while, Wil. I'll just be stand-offish." Buffy agreed, still uncertain how she was going to accomplish that and maintain her health. She'd work that out later though. Right now, she needed relief.

"Here. Try taking deeper breaths." Willow suggested nervously.

"I can't. Wil, I think I'm going to be sick." The little slayer covered her mouth and ran to the restrooms.

Willow stood up and glanced around. She could see Tara coming back with Dawn and Faith behind her.

"Faith, she's in the restroom." Willow waited until Dawn and Faith went after Buffy then turned to Tara. "I told Buffy not to say anything to Faith yet. It's too great a risk. At least until we can figure out a cure."

Tara wrinkled her brow in concern. "I don't like it, but I suppose we don't have a choice."

...................

"Are you sure you're okay B?" Faith pulled the blonde into her arms as they rested upstairs.

Buffy knew that she shouldn't allow Faith to hold her, but it felt so good. She just closed her eyes and nodded.

"Do you want me to stay up here with you?" The brunette asked softly.

"Yes, if you don't mind." The little slayer smiled up at Faith.

"Nah... of course, I don't mind. Whatever it takes, remember?" Faith kissed her and gently caressed her.

*Oh god... mmmm.... feels so good, but I shouldn't let her.* Buffy pulled away. "No, not now."

"Okay, B. That's cool." Faith stopped touching her. She got up.

"Wait. You're not mad, are you?" Buffy looked worriedly at the dark slayer.

"Nope. Just getting something to read." The brunette grinned back at her as she held up her comic book. "Do you want one?"

Buffy smiled. "No, I just want to sleep for a little while."

"Sleep away." Faith laid back down and patted her chest. "Your pillows await."

"Thanks." The small slayer smiled bashfully as she cuddled up next to the brunette.

Faith very quietly and casually flipped through her comic books. She was nibbling on a piece of licorice and reading contently.

Buffy peeked up and watched her. *Faith is a definite hottie.* The little blonde sighed.

"What?" Faith asked without glancing at Buffy. "I see you looking at me. Did you expect my lips to move when I read or somethin'?"

"No. Nothing." Buffy turned her head, embarrassed. The dark slayer shrugged it off and kept reading. There was a knock at the door.

"Come in." Faith called out as she flipped the page.

Willow walked in. She quickly hid her frown. "Dinner is ready." She caught Buffy's eye and gave her a disapproving look.

Buffy jumped up. "Uh... Yeah, thanks Wil. We should go eat, come on Faith." The young slayer tossed down the comic book and followed the little blonde out.

...................

"B, will you feel up to slaying? If I have to I'll miss tonight and just Spike and the scoobies can go. What's the word?" Faith reached for more chicken.

"Yes, Buffy. Faith has a point. If you don't feel up to it..." Giles interjected as he poured himself more wine.

"No. I'm okay. We'll go." Buffy glanced over at Willow and Tara.

"Hey there slayers." Spike walked in from the kitchen. "Nibblet." He smiled at Dawn and nodded at the rest of them.

"Spike!" The teenager chirped excited.

"Hey William." Faith leaned back in her chair and grinned.

"Luscious, wanna have a smoke with me?" He leered at the brunette.

"Can't." She glanced over at Buffy. "I quit."

"What?" Spike smirked. "Why?"

"I lost a bet." Faith muttered, ignoring Dawn's giggles.

"Yeah, she lost to Buffy on Extreme Boxing. Buffy beat the snot out of her." Dawn rubbed it in with a grin.

"Yeah, well Goldilocks has a way of doing that to people." The vampire snorted as he headed outside to smoke.

Faith stood up to follow.

"Faith!" Buffy spoke sternly. "No smoking."

"Yeah, yeah. I'm jus' going out there to keep him company."

"Me too." Dawn chimed in.

The two brunettes left the table. Giles stood up also. "I think I'm going to get down to the Magic Box. Do be careful, Buffy? Don't let Faith stray to far or you'll be helpless." He warned her as he headed out.

"I won't." Buffy called out, thinking now might be a good time for her to escape also. She could tell Willow was going to lecture her about Faith again.

"Okay, Tara and I agreed not to say anything, but Buffy, you're supposed to be stand-offish." The red head reminded her.

"I am." Buffy looked away, unable to make eye contact. Willow gave her a doubtful look to which the blonde defensively replied. "We didn't have sex."

"No, but you were looking pretty comfy when I came in the room earlier." The little witch shook her head. "Snuggling up like that with Faith. Well... that probably means more to her than sex. You have to be careful, Buffy. Just don't lead her on."

They all got quiet when they heard the back door open. Faith and Dawn came in laughing. "Can you believe that?" The teenager nudged Faith. "He likes you."

"Nahhh... He likes B." The young slayer's eyes twinkled. "Everybody likes B."

Buffy shifted uncomfortably in her chair as Tara cleared her throat, trying to divert attention. "We made pie. Who wants some pie?"

"Me!" Dawn squealed as Faith leaned past her with a plate.

"I'll take some." The dark slayer nudged the teenager almost knocking her out of her chair. "Ha! Ha! Sit much?"

"Very funny." Dawn pushed back.

Part 15 - Ready?

"Ready?" Faith stood twirling her sword.

"Yes. And stop playing with that. It's not a toy." Buffy frowned in annoyance.

"It is to me." The brunette grinned as she followed Buffy and Spike into the cemetery. "What do you think Spikey? Are we going to run into anymore of those Parvo demons?" Faith glanced around anxious to fight.

"Don't know, pet. Hope not. They're nasty buggers. An' hard to kill." The vampire gestured that he saw something.

Buffy grabbed Faith's hand and pulled her behind them. "Hey!" Faith objected vigorously. "I want to fight too!"

"You will. Just hush for now." Buffy motioned for Spike to go around. They turned the corner to find five vampires bleeding some college boy. He appeared dead. "Now!" Buffy rushed at the group, staking two almost instantly.

Faith blinked back her surprise and brandished her sword. She could see Buffy stake another. Spike tossed his vampire to the ground, and the little slayer ran up and staked that one too.

The vampire Faith was fighting threw her back. She dropped her sword. Buffy stepped over, kicked the sword into the air, caught it and lopped the vamp's head off.

"That should do it. Let's go home. You can have more pie, Faith." The little blonde tried to console her; she could tell Faith was bitterly disappointed.

"I don't want pie. I want to slay something." Faith frowned and kicked the dirt.

"Maybe tomorrow." Buffy took her hand and led her away.

Spike waved to them. "I'll be seeing you."

"Yeah, thanks Spike." The little slayer acknowledged him half- heartedly causing him to give a lovesick smile and stumble.

"Careful Spike." Faith chuckled following behind Buffy.

.......................

Faith came back from her shower to find Buffy asleep. *Damn.* She switched off the light and climbed in. *Oh well...*

Buffy stole a peek. It seemed that Faith was buying it. *She thinks I'm asleep. Good.* The little blonde peered over again. Faith had rolled onto her stomach and was facing away.

Buffy laid there unable to sleep. She was dying for some contact with the young slayer. After awhile she whispered. "Faith? Faith, are you asleep?" No answer. Buffy reached over and touched Faith's back. *Mmmmm... she has a nice back.*

The little slayer pulled the blanket down. She studied Faith's sleeping form. *Faith has a hot, hot body.* Buffy ran her hand over the brunette's butt. Faith was only wearing a tank top and panties again. Buffy stroked her tenderly, reveling at the sparkage she was feeling. *Mmmm... yummy Faith...* She slipped her hand into Faith's panties, stifling her moan as she touched the younger girl's bare bottom.

Faith stirred slightly. Buffy immediately pulled her hand back and froze. The brunette rolled over onto her back, mumbling incoherently in her sleep.

Buffy waited until Faith quieted then reached over. She ran her fingers lightly over Faith's stomach. *Such a nice, flat stomach... very sexy..* Buffy gently lifted the tank top, tugging it up to reveal two perfect breasts. Her mouth watered and she swallowed hard as she reverently reached for them.

Her fingertips grazed the nipples. She licked her lips as they instantly stiffened to her touch. Buffy glanced up at Faith. The brunette slept soundly. She became more bold, pinching Faith's nipples and rolling them between her fingers. She was dying to suck on them.

Buffy closed her eyes tight and let her breath out slowly. *Oh god... no, I shouldn't be doing this... * She opened her eyes and stared down at Faith's body; there for her to touch.

Her hand traveled of its own accord down the flat stomach and to the top of Faith's panties. She peered up at the brunette before letting her fingers stray under the fabric. Faith twitched and spread her legs further. Buffy halted for a moment. *Just a quick feel... no biggie.*

Buffy was already flush with pleasure and reluctant to stop now. She wanted a taste. Slowly she dipped her hand lower, marveling at the softness. She slipped her fingers into the wetness and extracted her hand. Stealing a peek at Faith first, she brought her glistening fingers to her lips and licked them. *MMMMMM!* Buffy squeezed her eyes shut as she sucked Faith's wetness off. *It tastes sweet... yummy Faith.*

Buffy smiled back up at the brunette who remained pleasantly asleep, lost in a lovely dream. The older slayer struggled to control her breathing as she reached down and gently tugged Faith's panties lower. She gazed hungrily at the newly exposed pussy in front of her as she slid the panties completely off and tossed them to the floor.

She delicately caressed the inside of Faith's thighs then ran her fingers up until they were coated. Buffy's eyes were half closed and her hand shook as she excitedly brought it to her mouth again. She sucked slowly, stifling a groan of pleasure as the heat surged through her. It was magnificent. *MMMMMMMMMMM... OH FAITH!.... YOU TASTE INCREDIBLE!*

As Buffy became more aroused, she became less cautious. She was soon stroking Faith harder as she reached between her own legs and touched herself. The younger girl moaned in her sleep and spread her legs wider.

Buffy leaned in, unable to control herself. *Just want to lick her... just once.* She brought her lips very gently to the soft folds and kissed. *Oh yesss...mmmm... Faithhhh..* The brunette moaned again and moved slightly against her lips.

The little slayer lost all perspective as she began eagerly lapping at the brunette and masturbating. It was too incredible. She shook as the first orgasm rocked through her, then continued to lick in ecstasy.

Faith's dream was incredible. She could almost feel Buffy's mouth. "Oh Buffy..." She moaned in her sleep and reached down, pressing the blonde against her. *Huh?* Faith opened her eyes to see Buffy hungrily licking and sucking on her pussy. Faith came instantly arching her back and trembling violently. "Oh my god.... B... fuck... yeah..." She fell back against the bed panting and grinning.

Buffy clung to her tightly as she came again and collapsed against the younger slayer. "Oh Jesus!" She let out her breath and laid there for a moment before looking up at Faith with a sheepish smile. "Sorry."

"Why? I'm not." The brunette laughed as she pulled the little slayer into her arms.

They both fell asleep sated, basking in the warm glow of their slayerness.

Part 16 Buffy's Puppies

Buffy woke up and rolled over. Faith was gone. She became slightly frustrated, tired of waking up alone. "Faith." The little slayer grumbled as she went down the stairs. "Faith, where'd you go?"

"She's in here." Dawn whispered, peering around the corner.

"What are you two doing? It's so early." Buffy padded into the room.

"Watching cartoons. Faith always watches Saturday cartoons with me." Dawn gestured at the sleeping slayer.

Buffy smiled. Faith looked so cute curled up on the couch, asleep. "She doesn't look like she's doing much watching." The little blonde snorted as she squeezed onto the couch next to Faith.

Dawn shrugged. "I think it's more symbolic than anything. At least that's what I'm guessing since she always falls asleep."

Willow and Tara came in. "What do you want for breakfast, Dawnie?"

"Pancakes!" Dawn turned back toward the tv.

"Ugh.. you always want pancakes. How's about waffles?" The little slayer suggested glancing at the witches with a smile. "And me and Faith will make them."

"Are you sure about that Buffy?" Willow tipped her head toward the sleeping slayer.

"Yeah, Faith looks pretty relaxed." Tara chuckled as she sat on the floor next to Dawn. "What are we watching?"

"Johnny Bravo." The teenager rested her head in Tara's lap.

"Yep, I'm sure. It'll be fun. I just need to wake Faith up." Buffy glanced at the brunette. "This shouldn't be a big deal, right? Faith's basically a morning person."

"Just keep telling yourself that." Willow snickered as she sat next to Tara. "What's wrong slayer... afraid to wake her up?"

"No." Buffy frowned. "Faith, doesn't get mad at me. So there." She reached over and roughly shook the younger slayer.

"Huh? What?..." The brunette jumped up, confused. "Where?" She turned around looking for the threat.

The little slayer smiled at her. "Good morning. You're going to help me make waffles."

"What?!" Faith snorted, laying back on the couch. "I don't think so."

The witches and Dawn laughed. "Told you." The red head got up prepared to do the waffle making.

Buffy gestured for her to sit. "No Wil. Faith is going to help out. Faith, get your butt up right now!"

The young slayer glanced at everyone then back at Buffy. "Ugh! Fine!" She followed the little blonde out.

Dawn leaned near Tara and Willow and whispered. "She's a Buffy puppy now."

............................

"Spike!" Dawn jumped up excited. "You came over. Hurray!" She ran up to him and grabbed his hand.

Faith sat reclining, wearing her usual grin. "William. Come give us a kiss." She teased. He growled and ran over laughing and pulling her into his arms with great pomp.

Dawn giggled and clapped. "Kiss her! Kiss her!"

Buffy strolled into the room. "What's going on?!"

"Nothing." Spike let go and Faith pulled away quickly, both panicked that their beloved would be angry.

"Let's not get too friendly here, you two. Come on, we're going patrolling first, then you guys can have your little movie party or whatever." Buffy tossed Faith her sword.

"Not fair. Tonight's our movie night. Spike and Faith never going slaying on this night. They watch movies with me." Dawn complained, turning to them for confirmation.

"Sorry, little bit. Where big sis goes. I go." Spike gave Dawn a sheepish look and so did Faith.

"Yeah, Squirt. I kinda have to. You know... duty and stuff."

They both followed after Buffy.

"Oh yeah! Go then, puppies! You're nothing but Buffy's puppies!" The teenager stamped her foot and sat down.

The blonde turned toward her sister, smirking. "Stop throwing a tantrum, Dawnie. I'll bring your playmates back in an hour or so, then you kiddies can have your little movie fest."

Faith and Spike both blushed and awkwardly exited, doing the only thing either of them desired, obeying Buffy... just to be near.

Part 17 - Competition

They strolled about the cemetery in relative silence. Both the dark slayer and the vampire were busy pondering Dawn's accusation. Buffy took up the rear, watching Faith as she walked along playing with the sword.

The little slayer smiled. She liked when Faith was all excited like this, aching for a good slay. Tonight Buffy would let her kill one. She sighed as Faith hopped up onto a headstone and did a flip.

"Nice, slayer. But can you do this?" Spike took a running start and jumped over a crypt.

"Totally!" Faith ran, jumped the crypt, and did two summersaults. She landed on her feet and held up her hands.

"Forget it, slayer. Watch this!" Spike did a flip, a spinning kick, two summersaults and a backhand spring and a back flip.

"I can top that!" Both her and Spike looked over to see if Buffy was still watching.

The little slayer folded her arms across her chest. "Are you two done yet?" Her tone was a cross between boredom and irritation. "We have work to do, and I'd like to get home and get to bed some time this century, thank you."

"Um... yeah, sure. Sorry B." Faith shoved at Spike.

"She started it, you know." The vampire pushed the brunette. "Thanks for nothing."

"Stuff it, dead boy." The dark slayer threw him.

Buffy hid her laugh and chastised Faith. "That's enough! Cut it out, right now!"

Spike and Faith scowled at each other but remained quiet.

"Over here." Buffy called out to them as she approached a fresh grave.

"Good call, B." Faith exclaimed, rushing over. "Mine!"

The little slayer chuckled and stepped back. "Okay. But don't dawdle."

A hand popped out. Faith waited patiently until a head appeared. She immediately swung her sword and lopped it off. "Quick enough for ya?" She smirked back at Spike.

"Ooh, so impressive." The blonde vampire remarked sarcastically, waving his hands.

"What's with you two?! Stop bickering. You're acting like a couple of five year olds. I'm not impressed." Buffy snapped, striding ahead of them.

Faith nudged Spike, muttering angrily. "See what you did? Now she's mad."

"Me?! Ha! You're the one driving her batty, slayer... with your constant, oh look me... I can do a bloody flip." Spike sneered, pushing Faith. "Besides you're with her all damn day. I only get to see her at night. How fair is that?"

"Bite me! She's my girlfriend!" Faith growled.

"THAT'S IT! SHUT UP, BOTH OF YOU!" Buffy turned on her heel. "We're going home now!"

"Is that true Buffy?" Spike ran up to her and tried to block her way. "Is Faith your girlfriend?"

The little slayer became flushed. She tried to walk around him.

"No wait! I want an answer, dammit!" The vampire shoved at the blonde.

"Hands off!" Faith stepped forward and grabbed Buffy, pulling her away.

"Both of you, keep your hands to yourself!" The small slayer pushed past them and headed for her house.

"B, tell him! You're my girlfriend, aren't you?" Faith suddenly faltered.

"Faith, I don't want to talk about this right now!"

Spike snorted. "See! Your girlfriend! Ha! In your dreams! Buffy's still available. Looking for a little poke too, I wager." He leaned back on his heels, smirking.

Faith dove at him.

"NO!" Buffy grabbed Faith around the waist and pulled her off. "SPIKE GO HOME NOW!"

"Yeah, alright Buffy." He sneered at the brunette before giving Buffy a gentle smile. "Anything for you."

"BASTARD!" Faith struggled to get free. "Let me stake him!"

"That's enough!" Buffy let go of her. "Get in the house, this minute!" She slammed the door behind them. "Go up to our room!"

"What?! What did I do?"

"FAITH!" The little slayer was at the boiling point.

"Screw you!" The brunette ran to the door. Buffy punched her, knocking her out.

"BUFFY!" Willow shouted at her as Tara and Dawn came in behind.

"What's wrong with you?!" Dawn cried as she knelt next to the unconscious slayer.

"Sorry Dawnie. I couldn't let her leave." Buffy glanced at the witches with great anxiety. Neither said anything as she lifted Faith and carried her upstairs.

The teenager looked at Tara and Willow. "What happened?"

"Dawn, let's just wait until tomorrow. Everyone is a little overwrought." Tara led Dawn out of the room. She glanced back at Willow.

"I know." The red head sighed and headed up the stairs to talk to Buffy.

Part 18 - Buffy's Prisoner

Willow rapped lightly on the door. "Buffy.. Can I come in?"

"Sure Wil, I'm just getting Faith settled for the night." The red head entered as Buffy finished fastening the younger slayer to the bed. Willow's eyes widened in shock.

"Buffy, you can't just chain her up like that. I understand that you're afraid, but as much I didn't use to believe this, I do now.... Faith deserves better treatment."

The blonde tilted her head and considered Willow's words. "And what do you suggest I let her do? Leave?"

A pained expression flickered across Willow's features. "I don't know Buffy. I can have Giles talk to her. What happened tonight?"

Buffy sat down heavily. "Argh! I'm not sure. They were arguing and driving me crazy. Faith got mad and tried to leave so I knocked her out." The slayer glanced guiltily at her best friend. "But just to keep her here. You've seen what happens to me. Wil, you guys have to find a cure fast, but until then..."

The witch furrowed her brow. "Until then, what?"

"Until then Faith can consider herself under house arrest. I'm not letting her out of my site." Buffy peered over at Willow. The red head stood up.

"Buffy, I'm going to get Giles."

The little slayer shouted after her retreating form. "He'll agree with me, Wil."

........................

Giles cleared throat in discomfort as the two witches related what happened. "I'm sorry Willow. You're not going to like my answer. But Buffy's right. We have no choice. Until we can find a cure, Faith has to be kept here. Even if it's against her will."

Tara shook her head, and Willow stood up angrily. "Giles, it's wrong, and you know it!"

"Willow, performing that spell was wrong! I can't say I'm not glad to have her back, but there are consequences to every action. Perhaps you should have considered that!" He removed his spectacles to clean them. "All I can say, is that I will try and talk some sense into both of them in the morning. It will give them time to cool down."

..................

Buffy checked the chains before climbing into the bed next to Faith. Pulling the younger girl into her arms, she settled down to sleep.

.......................

Faith woke up slowly, her head throbbing. "Oww... Dammit B!" She opened her eyes to see Buffy hovering over her.

"How are you feeling?" The little slayer gently touched the bruise.

"Ouch! How do you think?!" Faith turned away from her and moved to get up. "HEY!" The brunette yelled when she realized that she was chained.

"Be quiet! Do you want to scare Dawn?!" Buffy covered the younger slayer's mouth. "Promise you won't shout." Faith's eyes narrowed, but she nodded so Buffy removed her hand.

"Good. Now don't give me any more trouble. Last night was bad enough." She sighed and laid on top off Faith. "You know you're all squishy and comfy. Your like my little Faithy bed."

"What?! Why'd you chain me? Are you afraid that I'll sock you in the eye to get even?!" Faith growled in irritation.

"Listen Faith, I can't let you leave. I can't tolerate the pain. Please." The hazel-eyed slayer pleaded studying the brunette's reaction carefully. "Unless I know you're not going to run, I have to keep you chained. You understand, right?"

Faith stared in disbelief.

"Too bad then, because until we have a cure..." Buffy glanced back nervously.

"Fine." The dark beauty spoke between gritted teeth. "Now unchain me."

"Nope. Now I don't believe you." The little blonde teased. She bent her head and kissed Faith softly.

"B! So help me, when I get loose I'm gonna wring your friggin' neck!"

Buffy became agitated. "When I let you go I'll be myself again. You won't be able to hurt me."

"You fucking bitch! I love you and you fucking do this to me! Go to hell!" Faith turned her head, trying to hide her tears from Buffy.

"I forgave you. You'll forgive me." The little slayer leaned close and wiped Faith's tears away. "Don't cry. Faith, I don't want to do this. Please don't cry."

"Just leave me alone, B."

"Okay." Buffy left the room, closing the door gently behind her.

Part 19 - Buffy's Not Right

"How is she doing?" Giles asked as Buffy came down the stairs.

"She's pretty pissed."

"Can you blame her?" Dawn glared at her sister.

"Dawn please, not right now." Buffy followed her watcher into the other room. The two witches were sitting at the table doing research.

"Maybe, we should do a spell to keep Faith near. You know, one that confines her so that she can be unchained." Tara glanced around at the others.

"No way! I don't want her getting all crazy and attacking any of us." The slayer said as she paced.

"You don't know Faith at all!" Dawn stood up angrily. "She wouldn't hurt any of us!" The teenager ran from the room.

"Buffy, I'll talk to her." Tara went after Dawn. The little slayer glanced uncomfortably at Willow and Giles.

"Buffy, Dawn's right. She's not going to hurt anyone. Keeping her chained is just going to make it that much worse. Have you thought about how betrayed she's feeling?" Willow peered over at the watcher. "I think Tara is right. We can do a containment spell for Faith, something that keeps her within 25 feet of the house. Then she can go in the yard at least. That shouldn't be too bad for her." The witch tried to reason as she started searching for a spell.

In a fit of panic, Buffy turned toward her watcher. "Giles, we can't untie her. It's just too dangerous. Just let me keep her for now. I'll take care of her. And once I'm back to normal, we'll make it up to her."

"Buffy, she's not a pet! Or something for you to use! I don't think you realize how bad you're hurting her." Willow scowled. "I know you're not interested in "being gay" but whether you like it or not she has feelings for you. You need to be an adult and tell her the truth. We'll do the containment spell, but you're not going to chain her to your bed and use her like some sort of aspirin."

Giles frowned. "Willow, what are you talking about?"

"Buffy, tell him or I will."

Buffy stiffened but said nothing.

"She had sex with Faith. Apparently, it lessens the side effects of her resurrection." Willow clarified. "She's able to tolerate more apart time from Faith."

"Buffy, how could you?!" Giles rubbed the bridge of his nose. "Willow, you and Tara find a containment spell. I'm going upstairs to talk to Faith. And you.." He gave Buffy a disappointed look. "Stay away from Faith for awhile. She'll be in the house or yard so you shouldn't suffer any symptoms, but give her some space. Do you understand?!"

The hazel-eyed beauty turned away to hide her tears. "Fine." She was so confused. She cared about Faith, but she didn't know if it was real or because of the side effects of her resurrection. What if she did love Faith? She was certainly blowing it. *Ugh! But there's no way to know until I'm cured!* Buffy stormed out of the room, displeased at being cast as the villain.

..................

Giles found Faith quietly crying. "Faith, I'm so sorry. Buffy's not herself." He explained as he began unchaining her.

"You're telling me. G-man, what happened to her?" The brunette sat up and rubbed her wrists.

"I don't know yet. But I need you to do me a favor."

Faith nodded. "Yeah, sure."

"Please don't fight with Buffy. And just for the time being, we're going to need you to go no further than the yard. Willow and Tara are going to do a containment spell just for everyone's peace of mind. Are you going to be okay with that? If you're not I won't have them do it. Will you let us?"

The young slayer thought for a moment then asked. "Don't you trust me?"

"Yes, but do this for everyone's sanity. Please... or Buffy's going to continue behaving badly. I know you're part the team. We all do." The watcher patted her back and smiled. "You should know that both Willow and Tara strongly oppose these measures. They came to me seeking an alternative." He looked at Faith with a very serious expression. "Whatever is causing these symptoms is also effecting Buffy's judgment. I need you to be the stronger one here. Okay?"

"Yeah, alright. Tell them they could do the spell so B stops wiggin'." The dark slayer looked down embarrassed. "But Giles, I want you to know that I wouldn't do anything to hurt her anymore. I love her. And as much as I want to snap her neck sometimes..." Faith laughed, slightly bitter. "I never would. Hell, I couldn't even kill her when I thought I hated her." She peered back up at at him. "Just tell her to keep clear of me for awhile. I don't like that she's made a sap of me."

"If it's any consolation Faith, I don't think she meant to. She's just very confused right now." The watcher smiled gently.

"Thanks."

"Are you ready to come down stairs?" He gave her a sympathetic look.

"Yeah, but I'm going take a shower first and get changed. I went slaying in these clothes. So I feel wicked gross, ya know." She smiled weakly as Giles got up to leave.

"I'm really proud of you Faith. We all are."

.....................

"What'd she say? What's going on?! You didn't unchain her, did you?!" Buffy stood at the bottom of the stairs.

"Enough! Yes, I unchained her." He glanced over at Willow. "Do the spell. She's agreed to it."

"What do you mean? Faith, would never agree to something like. She's tricked you!" Buffy ran past him. "Where is she?"

"BUFFY! STOP NOW!" Giles shouted at her, but she ignored him and raced into her room. Faith wasn't there. She stood for a moment until she heard the shower.

Buffy stormed into the bathroom.

"HEY! DO YOU MIND!" Faith pulled the shower curtain around herself.

"Yes, I do mind. What kind of deception are you planning this time?! You've sure got Giles and Willow fooled!" The little blonde marched over and pulled back the curtain, allowing herself the pleasure of an eyeful. *Mmmmm... hot and sexy.... yummy Faith...*

"FUCK! GET THE HELL OUT OF HERE! RED! RED!" Faith yelled until the little witch appeared at the door.

"What's going on in here?!" Willow frowned, directing her disapproval toward Buffy.

"I don't know! B's gone mental or something! Just tell her to get out! I'm trying to take a shower for Christ-sakes! If she keeps this up, I am gonna deck her!" Faith growled as she grabbed a towel to cover herself.

Buffy continued to stare. She suddenly wanted the brunette very badly. Willow grabbed her arm. "Come on, Buffy. Please."

The little slayer backed out of the room reluctantly. Faith leaned under the shower and cried. She suddenly realized, Buffy came back different.... wrong somehow.

Part 20 - Croquet and A Cure

"Giles, there's something you didn't think about." Buffy leaned over her watcher's shoulder trying to read his notes as he was writing. He glanced up at her, annoyed. "How are we supposed to go slaying? Hmmm?"

"Buffy, please I'm trying to work something out here. Obviously you won't be going slaying until we straighten this out. I'm not so sure you're in the right state of mind anyway." Giles removed his glasses and rubbed his eyes. "Now please let me concentrate."

The slayer blinked back her hurt and left him to his work. "Hey Dawnie." She stretched out next to her sister.

The teenager folded her arms across her chest as she continued to stare at the tv.

"Aren't you going to speak to me? Dawn, this doesn't have anything to do with you. Faith can take care of herself. She doesn't need you fighting her battles." Buffy tipped her sister's chin up so that Dawn would have to look at her. The little brunette's eyes got big as she saw Faith walk in.

"Yup, she's got that right, Squirt." Faith sat down on the other side of Dawn and ruffled her hair. "Besides Buffy's slight case of "the bitch" is bound to wear off. Either way it doesn't make a damn difference to me. So don't sweat it." She grabbed the remote control from the younger girl. "What's on?"

Dawn laughed and passed Faith the bowl of popcorn. Buffy winced at the younger slayer's remarks and got up to leave.

"Oh and B, don't go far." Faith snickered as she turned back toward the television.

.....................

"Want to play croquet?" Dawn got up from the couch. She ignored Buffy who had been sitting and watching them.

"Sure, Squirt. Let's go." Faith and Dawn walked out into the back. The little slayer got up and followed.

Buffy sat down on the bench with her lemonade.

"Go away." The teenager snapped, getting her mallet.

"Can I play?" Buffy got up and got a mallet.

"NO!" Dawn tried to take it from her, but Faith intervened.

"Let her play. Squirt, you go first."

Willow peeked out the window to see Buffy playing croquet with two brunettes. She turned to her girlfriend. "Tara, we have to find a cure and fast. Buffy isn't going to back off."

"I know. She's been following Faith around the house all day, but Faith's doing a pretty good job not letting it bother her." Tara opened another spell book. "Giles thinks she'll be able to keep calm."

"To a point." Willow frowned and shook her head. "I don't understand Buffy anymore. I hope she stops doing the crazy after we do this healing spell."

"Not to worry." Xander came in excited with Anya close behind. "Giles thinks he knows what the problem is and it accounts for everything, including her freakishly selfish behavior."

The watcher closed the front door and put his box of supplies down. "Yes, we'll be able to do the correct healing spell on the next full moon, until then we have to give Buffy lots of latitude. She's not really responsible for her actions right now. We mustn't provoke her. She'll continue to deteriorate until her soul is restored in its entirety."

"Someone better tell Faith." Willow looked nervously back out the window. They all seemed to be arguing.

..............

"Girls. Girls. Stop it this instant!" Giles stepped out with Xander and Willow close behind.

"Yes, if you can't play nice..." Xander teased wagging his finger.

"No, it's cool. We're done playing. Aren't we?" Faith set down the mallet, and Dawn stormed toward the house.

The teenager stopped long enough to shout out, "Buffy, you spoil everything! I hate you."

Faith's face fell when she saw Buffy's hurt look. "B, she didn't mean it. I swear. I'll go talk to her, okay? She's just a kid, you know. She didn't mean it." The brunette raced in after Dawn.

"Squirt, I want you to go back out there and apologize to your sister. Do you understand?" Faith grabbed Dawn's arm to prevent her from running off. "Just because I'm not to happy with Buffy right now, doesn't mean you shouldn't be. She's back, Dawnie, and it's the greatest thing ever. That's all we've wished for the whole friggin' summer. Did you forget? So come on, just ignore her being a nutty bitch. `Cause anything is worth having her back, isn't it?!"

Dawn's eyes overflowed with tears. "Yeah, you're right." She hugged Faith.

"Now go on out there and tell her that." The dark haired slayer swatted Dawn on the butt and pushed her back out the door. She sat down and watched from the window as Buffy and Dawn hugged and made up.

*Ugh! B, what am I gonna frickin' do with you!* Faith laid her head on the table in despair. She wanted the old, happy-go-lucky Buffy back even if it meant they wouldn't have sex or be together. She just wanted Buffy well.

"How are you doing?"

Faith's head snapped up. "Oh... Red, hey." She gave her a casual grin. "You know me. I'm five by five."

..................

Faith grabbed a tank top and a pair of boxers from the drawer. Buffy laid on the bed watching, as the brunette changed and headed for the door. "Where are you going?"

Dark eyes turned toward the little blonde. "To sleep on the couch."

Buffy jumped up and blocked the door. "No. There's no reason to do that. Please."

"B, what do you want from me? Do you want me to fuck you again?! Huh?! Is that what you want?!" Faith shoved her. "Get out of my way!"

"Faith, get in the bed! Now!" Buffy stood firm.

The brunette remembered what Giles and Willow had told her. Buffy wasn't playing with a full deck. She knew she wasn't supposed to provoke the older slayer, but this was just too much.

"I said move! Or I'm gonna smack you!" Faith raised her fists.

"Go ahead! Show me how much you love me! Hit me!" Buffy screamed, getting up close.

Faith lowered her hands and stepped back. "I'm not going to hit you, B. I should, but I won't. You want me to stay up here. Fine. I'll sleep up here. But stay on your side of the bed, got it?!"

Rolling her eyes, Buffy got into the bed next to her and switched off the light.

Faith turned over and laid on her stomach. Relaxing, she fell asleep within minutes, while Buffy continued to toss and turn.

"Faith... Faith, wake up." The little blonde crawled onto the taller girl's back and whispered in her ear. "Hold me... Faith... hold me, pleaseeee..."

"Shhhh..." Faith groaned and rolled over, pulling the small slayer into her arms. "Be quiet now."

Buffy closed her eyes and sighed as the pleasure spread over her like honey. She clung tightly to the brunette, enjoying the sensations tingling across her skin and heating up her body. It felt so exquisite to be held by Faith.

Part 21 - Give It To Me

The green-eyed beauty moaned as she rubbed her body up against the younger girl's.

"Faith... please." Buffy slipped her hand down the front of Faith's boxers. "Faith... don't you want me..." She groaned at the wetness she felt. "Yes, you do... I can feel it... you're so wet for me... pleaseeeee..."

The brunette scowled. "Cut it out!" She tried to move Buffy's hand away.

"Nooo... Faith, I need this... touch me..." The little slayer whispered in a voice thick with desire. "Pleaseee... I want you... I want you to go down on me... I want to cum all over your face... I'm soooo hot for you...."

"B, this isn't you. I didn't want to tell you this... But..." Faith grabbed Buffy's roaming hands trying to keep them still. "Listen to me. You're not whole. The spell was interrupted. This isn't you. And you're getting worse. We shouldn't do this."

"Noooo... that's why I need this... Please Faith, fuck me." Buffy tore the tank top and caught Faith's nipple between her lips sucking hard as she ground her body against her. "I want this. I do. I want you. I want you to be my girlfriend.... and I want to fuck you everynight... to taste you..."

"Oh god, B... stop it! C'mon you're not gay. You don't want this. You don't want me. You may need this, but you don't want it!" Faith shoved her away.

The tiny blonde growled angrily. "Don't you push me away! You tease! Give me what I want!"

Faith's face changed to a mask of rage. "Fine! I'll fuck you, you little bitch in heat!" She picked Buffy up and threw her on the floor. The blonde squealed with delight as Faith tore the clothes from her.

"Yes Faithy! Give it to me! Oooh, hurt me baby.... ahhhhhh!" Buffy smiled as the younger slayer carried her to the wall and slammed her against it. Faith held her up as she slid her fingers into the smaller girl.

"You like this?! You like me fucking you like a little whore?!" She pumped her fingers in and out faster and faster as Buffy rode them, groaning with pleasure.

"OH YESSSSS.... Mmmmmm... Fuck me harder... please Faith, I'm gonna cum.... oh baby, I'm so close... oh goddddd... FUCKKKKKK... AHHHHHHH!.... THAT'S IT!... OH FAITHHHH!" Tears leaked from Buffy's eyes as orgasm after orgasm rocked through her body. She'd never come so hard. Green-eyes remained unfocused under a haze of ecstasy. The brunette lowered her lips and kissed Buffy gently.

"I love you, B." She leaned her forehead against the little slayer's. Slowly, she slid her fingers out then tenderly cupped Buffy's pussy with her hand. "Are you okay? I didn't hurt you, did I?"

The pretty little blonde couldn't form a word. She could only weakly shake her head as Faith lifted her carefully and carried her back to their bed.

Buffy turned her head and gazed at Faith, slipping slowly into a deep, peaceful slumber.

The dark slayer watched her drift off, angry at herself for handling Buffy so roughly. But worse than that, was that the little beauty seemed to get off on it. Faith frowned as she delicately caressed the smaller girl. She whispered softly. "I want my B back. I want you whole again." Faith kissed her cheek and pulled her very gently into her arms.

............................

Willow gave Buffy a withering look when she came into the kitchen. "A rough night?" Her tone was snide.

The little blonde was still floating on cloud nine and chose to ignore it. "Good morning, any breakfast made?" "No." Willow went back to sipping her coffee. Tara shifted uncomfortably in her seat.

"But we can make something if you're hungry?" The blonde witch offered.

"No Tara. Let her get it herself. She knows how to get what she wants." The red head spoke coldly, as she got up and left the room.

Buffy glanced over. "What's with her?"

Tara lowered her head. "We heard you last night."

"That's it! I'm sound proofing my room!" Buffy stormed out, angry and embarrassed. *What right does Willow have to judge?! It's none of her business!* She went outside to sulk. *This is my happy day. She's ruining my happy day.*

...............

"Hey Tara, anything to eat?" Faith asked casually as she stuck her head into the fridge. "Damn, I'm wicked hungry."

"I'll fix something for you." Buffy came in excited. *Faith is hungry. I'll make my Faithy breakfast.*

"It's the least you could do." Dawn snickered, walking in with Willow close behind.

Buffy slammed down the pan she was holding. "DID EVERYONE HEAR US?! GODDAMMIT, YOU SHOULD ALL MIND YOUR OWN BUSINESS!"

"B, calm down. It's okay. Shhhh... The Squirt was just kidding. C'mon.." Faith reached for her, but Buffy pulled away still furious.

"I DIDN'T ASK TO BE RIPPED FROM HEAVEN BY MY SO CALLED FRIENDS! ANY OTHER FAVORS, YOU'RE GOING TO DO FOR ME?!" Buffy started grabbing dishes and smashing them. She slowly slid to the floor in heap, sobbing. "If it weren't for Faith, I'd rather be dead..."

"No... B... Baby.." Faith reached over and picked her up while the others watched in horror.

They had pushed her too far, and they knew it. Giles now stood in the doorway, frowning.

"It's okay. I got her." Faith reassured him as she carried the crying slayer up to their room.

He turned toward the others. "Didn't I ask you to give her lots of latitude?! She's right! What goes on between her and Faith is their business!" The watcher shouted, angry at the group. "Faith seems to be handling it with great maturity. So will the rest of you, please keep your comments and judgments to yourselves?!"

Willow and Dawn ducked their heads down ashamed at their behavior. Buffy wasn't herself, and they shouldn't be riding her so hard. They both quietly apologized.

"Don't apologize. Just try harder. We haven't long to wait before we can do the healing spell so let's all just give Buffy her way with a smile. Understand?!" He turned on his heel and headed up the stairs to check on his slayers.

.....................

There was a light rap on the door. "Go away!" Buffy screamed between sobs. Faith tightened her hold on the smaller girl.

"Come in." The brunette smoothed back Buffy's blonde locks and kissed her. "It's okay, B."

Giles tentatively entered the room. "Buffy," he softly patted her on the back. "I don't want you to worry about any of this. We have a cure. All you need to do is try and relax until the spell. Nobody is going to give you a hard time anymore. There'll be no more judgments cast by anyone." He smiled as her tears stopped.

She held his hand to her cheek. "Will the spell fix everything? I want to be like before."

"Yes." He reassured her gently. "The healing spell should make you feel whole again. I know it's been hard. But we are all here for you, especially Faith. Okay?"

Buffy sniffled and nodded. He turned toward the younger slayer. "Maybe a spot of training would do the two of you some good. Why don't we go down to the Magic Box for a bit?"

"I can't." Faith said causing the watcher to do a double take. "The containment spell, remember?"

"Oh, yes. Well I'll have Tara and Willow remove it. Are you comfortable with that Buffy?" He glanced down at the teary-eyed slayer still clinging tightly to Faith.

"Yes. If..." She hesitated.

"What? What do you need?" Faith adjusted the small girl in her arms.

"If you promise not to leave. I'll believe you if you promise."

Faith chuckled. "I promise."

Giles left the room to tell the witches to remove the containment spell; it was now entirely unnecessary.

"Faith?" "Yes? What is it?" Dark-eyes met big beautiful green ones still wet with tears.

"Do you really love me?" Buffy looked up searchingly.

Faith laughed. "B, I think I must, don't you?"

Part 22 - Horny Little Buffy

"Let's go train." The dark-haired beauty pulled the little blonde onto her lap. "How does that sound B?"

"Okay." She sniffled as she nuzzled up against Faith. "You're not mad at me anymore?"

"No, I'm not mad at you. But I'm gonna kick your little butt." Faith kissed her softly causing Buffy to sigh.

"We'll see about that." The small slayer stood up and yanked the brunette to her feet. "Let's go."

..................

Buffy circled Faith, grinning at how hot the brunette looked all sweaty and panting. The dark slayer quickly made her move, flipping Buffy onto her back.

"No fair. I wasn't ready." Buffy complained as she rose to her feet.

"Pay attention B. Besides, where's that big bad slayer from the last couple of nights? I've never seen you so deadly. Why is that?" Faith gently teased her.

Wham! She was thrown on her back. This time Buffy straddled her, laughing. "Okay Faith, I'll show you what I've got... if you show me yours." The small slayer's voice was sultry as she leaned close.

Faith laid there looking up at Buffy. The little slayer was glowing, her green eyes twinkling.

"Wanna see?" She lifted her shirt. "Wanna touch?" Buffy placed Faith's hand on her breast. "Wanna taste?" The little blonde leaned forward, pressing her nipple against Faith's full lips.

The dark slayer was caught off guard, but she slowly parted her lips. Buffy smiled, excited. Faith was going to suck on her nipples. She liked that. The petite beauty watched with great interest as Faith's dark lashes fluttered shut, and the soft red lips accepted the pink offering.

"Mmmm.... that feels good. I like you sucking on my nipples almost as much as when you suck on my clit." With that, Buffy reached down and pulled the drawstring on her pants. The sweats dropped down to her knees. Faith's eyes got big when she saw that Buffy wasn't wearing any underwear.

The blonde smiled, delighted with herself. "Commando! What do you think? I even shaved so now you can lick me for hours."

Faith groaned as she reached between Buffy's legs and felt the bald little lips. They were silky soft and soaked.

"See. I'm ready." The tiny blonde squealed, eager to have Faith lick her freshly shaved little pussy. "Here, let me straddle your face."

Faith nodded, too worked up to speak.

"Okay." Buffy instructed. "Now lick me, really slow."

The brunette leaned up and ran her tongue lightly along Buffy's slit.

"OH GOD!" The blonde shivered and trembled. "THAT FEELS SOOOOO FUCKING GOOD! DON'T STOP! PLEASEEE!" The small slayer smiled down as she lowered herself onto Faith's mouth.

Faith was ready too. The younger girl reached up and pulled Buffy onto her more, sucking tenderly on the blonde's swollen clit.

The small slayer fell forward, moaning as the pleasure surged through her. She could feel the wetness flowing down the inside of her thighs. "Oh Faithy..."

In a matter of minutes, Buffy was rocking back and forth on Faith's face, talking dirty, pinching her nipples, and occasionally purring.

"Oh Faith, this feels so incredible. I can't even describe how this feels... It's better than heaven." She arched her back and held still as the orgasm flowed through her, warm and delicious. Buffy whimpered and went limp, falling flat onto Faith.

The brunette chuckled and rolled to the side, taking the small girl with her. "B... B, are you alright? You did a little fainty thing just now."

"Huh?" Buffy peered at her, her eyes still glazed. "Umm? What did you ask me?"

"Nothing." Faith pulled up the tiny slayer's sweat pants up and tied the drawstring. "We've probably done enough training. What do you say to us going home now? I'm so freakin' hungry."

Buffy's face lit up. "I'll make you lunch."

"Alright." Dark-eyes narrowed with suspicion. "This isn't some sort of trick or something, is it?"

"No. I want to do it." The little blonde jumped to her feet. "I've been meaning to learn to cook." She laughed and raced out of the workout room with Faith following close behind.

Part 23 - Quiche Lorraine

Faith sat at the table watching as Buffy fussed over serving her. The little blonde set the plate down proudly in front of Faith. The dark slayer arched an eyebrow before asking, "Um.. B, not to be difficult or anything, but what is it?"

"Quiche. I've made you Quiche Lorraine." Buffy smiled, excited.

"Huh?... Oh, uh... it looks great." Faith grinned nervously, poking it with her fork. "Aren't you going to eat too?"

"No, I made it just for you." Buffy stood by happily. She was waiting for the young slayer to take a bite.

Faith smiled again, and tentatively took a bite. "Uh... it's great. Thank you." The little slayer's face lit up.

"Really? You like it?!" Buffy was thrilled.

"Sure B. It's the best ... um, what'd you call it?"

"Quiche Lorraine."

"Yeah, okay. It's the best Quiche Lorraine I've ever had." Faith stated emphatically.

Willow walked into the room. She saw the two slayers and chuckled. "Faith, have you ever even had quiche before?"

"Well... um... Okay, no. But still this is the best. I'm sure of it." She smiled at the little blonde who sat watching her, eager for Faith to eat more.

Grinning, the dark-eyed beauty quickly cleaned her plate. "See, how good it was? Mmmm... yum." She started to stand up.

"No, have more." Buffy rushed into the other room to bring Faith another serving.

Willow glanced over and laughed. "Faith, you should tell her, before you turn green."

"No way. I'm not going to hurt her feelings." They both became quiet as Buffy returned with another plateful. "Wow, thanks." Faith slowly ate the next piece, occasionally smiling up at the small slayer who sat observing.

"Do you want more?" Buffy jumped up to get Faith another helping.

"NO!... I mean... No, I'm totally stuffed. But maybe later, okay?" The brunette grimaced as she stood up. "I think I'm gonna just lay down for awhile... you know, watch some tv or something."

"I'll watch television with you." Buffy sang out gleefully, following the younger girl into the other room. She waited until Faith sat down, and then settled next to her.

"B, what are you looking at?" The brunette turned slightly.

"Nothing!" Buffy looked back at the tv. Faith shook her head and leaned back closing her eyes.

"Faith?"

Faith sighed. "Yes?"

"You didn't like my quiche, did you?" Buffy leaned close. Faith opened one eye and studied her. "I can tell when you're lying. Why'd you lie?"

"Because you made it for me. So even if it didn't taste good, I still liked it." Faith closed her eyes once more; she missed seeing Buffy's big smile.

The blonde kissed her softly. "Faith?"

"Yep?"

"I love you."

Part 24 - Sing Something Else

Faith's eyes popped open; she turned and looked at Buffy. "You what?"

"I love you." The little slayer quietly repeated herself.

"Yeah? Are you sure about that B?"

"Yes." Buffy's smile grew. "I'm positive."

Faith frowned. "I'd prefer you take it back. Wait until after the spell. If you say it then, then maybe I'll believe you."

Buffy's face fell. "Fine." She stood up and stomped out of the room.

"For fucksakes! Dammit B! Come back here!" The dark slayer sat waiting, but Buffy didn't return.

.......................

"Willow, we have to do that spell. I can't take anymore of this!" Buffy stood in front of her best friend, determined.

"Tomorrow night is the full moon. That's when we can do the spell. You just have to wait." The red head watched with concern as the little slayer raged.

"I can't wait! I have to get away from this! To hell with everyone! And to hell with Faith! If she doesn't want me, then I don't want her either!" Buffy slammed the door on her way out.

Willow ran into the other room. "Faith! Faith, you have to stop Buffy! She's doing a crazy again."

"Where is she?" Faith jumped to her feet.

"I don't know. She just stormed out." The witch picked up the phone to dial the Magic Box.

"Call the others. I'll go after her." Faith headed for the door.

"She can't go far, right?" Willow watched as the brunette's expression changed.

"Yes, she can. We... uh... Never mind. But yeah, she can be gone for awhile. That's not a good thing though, because when it hits, it hits fast. She'll be vamp food if we don't find her before dark." Faith turned and rushed out.

............................

"Spike? Spike, are you here?" Buffy pushed open the crypt door.

"Look at you, like a lost little lamb. What brings you to this neck of the woods, Sunshine?" Spike snickered as he came up from the lower level. "Why are you here? Shouldn't you be with your girlfriend?"

"She's not my girlfriend!" The little slayer strode over to a chair and sat down heavily. A big pout settled on her face. "Faith doesn't want me!"

"What?! Slayer, now I know you've lost your mind!" The vampire settled next to her. "Tell me your troubles, Goldilocks." He put his arm around the tiny blonde. Buffy buried her face against him and began to sob.

"Spike, everyone's treating me differently.... except you." She sniffled as she looked up at him. "Kiss me." Spike needed no further encouragement and lowered his lips to Buffy's.

Faith stood outside Spike's crypt. She could sense Buffy was inside. Lifting her foot, she kicked open the door.

They broke apart quickly, but not quick enough. The brunette growled angrily. "GET YOUR HANDS OFF OF HER!"

Spike stood up immediately. "Now look slayer, this isn't my fault!"

Faith strode past him and roughly grabbed Buffy. "Come on, we're going home."

"NO! Let go of me! I don't want to!" Buffy struggled to break free.

"Don't make me hurt you, B. You're not staying out here." The brunette lifted the tiny kicking slayer into her arms. "Cut it out! B, I'm not playing! Stop it!"

"NO! I want to stay with Spike!" Buffy screamed grabbing the door jamb and holding on. "NOOOO!"

"Put her down. She said she doesn't want to go. Are you deaf?" Spike stepped over and tried to take Buffy from her.

"William, I'm serious! Step back before I stake you!" Faith shouted, staring coldly at the vampire.

"Don't worry Spike. I won't let her!" The little blonde yelled, squirming in Faith's arms. "PUT ME DOWN!"

"Fine!" Faith dropped her to the floor.

"OUCH!" Buffy cried out, trying to catch herself. The brunette scowled as she reached to steady the small slayer.

"Now get lost, Faith! I'll take care of her." The vampire pulled Buffy to him.

"I'm not leaving her. You two can do what you want, but I'm not leaving Buffy here. In another half hour or so she'll be doubled over and ice cold. How are you going to help her then dead boy?!" Faith snickered walking over to the beat up sofa and sitting down.

The little blonde watched the young slayer start flipping through a magazine. "Hey William, you've got anything to drink around here... besides blood that is?"

"Uh... yeah." Spike walked to the back of his crypt and returned with a bottle of Jack Daniels. "Here."

"That's the stuff." She accepted the bottle gratefully, and took a large swig. "You two can go back to whatever it was you were doing." Faith waved her hand about. "Don't mind me."

"Like we want you watching?!" Buffy snorted, crossing her arms over her chest. "As if!"

"Sure you do. That's why you did it. You knew I was out there B. Just like I sensed you were in here." Faith laughed bitterly as she watched Spike's face change. "What?! You didn't figure that out bleach boy?! The show was for my benefit. So please, continue."

"You used me?!" The vampire turned to look at Buffy his eyes filled with hurt. The tiny slayer lowered her head.

"I'm sorry. She just makes me so mad!" Buffy stamped her foot like a spoiled child.

"GET OUT! BOTH OF YOU!" Spike ran over to the door and threw it open. "LEAVE!"

"Come on hot lips, let's go." Faith took Buffy's hand and pulled her along.

Buffy scowled at Faith before trailing after her. "I don't want you sleeping in our room tonight."

"Fine. Just shut it for now though. `Kay, B? I have a headache and you're not helping it." The brunette picked Buffy up and tossed her over her shoulder, giving her a hard spank on the butt.

"HEY! WHAT DO YOU THINK YOU'RE DOING?! FAITH! FAITH!" Buffy screamed and kicked the whole way back. Faith drowned it out by singing over the little slayer's objections. Buffy complained further. "I don't like that song! Sing something else!"

Part 25 - Buffy Gets A Spanking

Faith entered the Summers' residence and unceremoniously dumped the little slayer onto the sofa next to Dawn. "Tell them Buffy's home now." She instructed the teenager before walking back outside.

"Wait! Where are you going?" The little slayer abruptly got up to follow after her.

Faith sat on the porch, talking to Tara. They both looked up. "Hey B, miss me already?" The dark slayer asked, snickering as she kicked at the ground in frustration.

"No. I just came out for some air." Buffy sat down next to Faith. The brunette rolled her eyes and turned back to Tara.

"Go ahead Blondie, finish the story."

"Maybe I should give you two a minute to talk?" The witch glanced from one frowning slayer to the other.

"NO! I have nothing to say to her." Buffy crossed her arms over her chest.

"See. I told you that she's acting like a five year old. So go on Tara, tell me the rest." The dark slayer casually leaned back. She was chewing on a straw but dying for a cigarette.

"Yuck! Faith, that's not sanitary." Buffy reached over and plucked the straw from Faith's mouth, tossing it aside.

The brunette growled under her breath but said nothing. The little slayer then took Faith's hand and held it tight. She started tracing patterns along the back and playing with Faith's fingers. *Mmmm... Faithy..* Buffy leaned closer and rested her head on the brunette's shoulder. She could feel Tara's soft voice and the warmth from Faith's presence lulling her to sleep. She blinked herself awake and stood up.

"Come back inside. I want to take a nap before we go slaying." Buffy grumbled, interrupting Tara's story and tugging at Faith's jacket.

"That's it! Cut it out! Go up and take a nap then, goddammit!" Faith brushed the little blonde off.

"NO! You have to go upstairs too. You know I can't go to sleep without you." The slayer insisted like a moody child.

Faith took a deep breath and silently counted before standing up to follow Buffy inside. "You'll have to finish telling me later, Tara. The baby needs a nap."

Tara covered her mouth to stifle her laugh as Buffy stormed inside, fuming. The brunette wandered in and up the stairs after her.

"Okay B. What do you want?" Faith asked in an exasperated tone.

"Lay down with me." Buffy whined, climbing onto the bed and patting it.

The brunette sighed and sat on the edge of the bed to remove her boots. "I thought you didn't want me sleeping in our room?" Faith teased as she crawled next to the little slayer and pulled her into her arms.

Buffy pouted as she snuggled up against the taller girl. "Are you going to keep being mean to me?"

"Ha! I think I've been pretty nice, all things considered." Faith squeezed her tight.

"Ow! Stop it, you're hurting me." The little blonde complained.

"Oh, am I? Sorry." The younger slayer sounded insincere. "Poor baby. Come here." She rolled Buffy over and kissed her. "Better?"

The tiny blonde nodded still pouting. "Kiss me again, here." Buffy pointed to her neck. Faith lowered her head and kissed Buffy's neck causing the little slayer to giggle.

"Now go to sleep." Faith adjusted Buffy in her arms and closed her eyes.

"Uh-uh. I want to make love."

"Too bad. Go to sleep." The taller girl held her still.

"Let go. Pleaseee.." Buffy whimpered and squirmed loose. Faith didn't move. She could tell Buffy was stripping. "Faith, open your eyes."

"No. B, I know you're naked, and I'm not interested. I've had enough of your shit. Now take your nap or I'm getting up." Faith scowled at the nude little blonde. "I'm this close to giving you the spanking you deserve."

"You can try." Buffy taunted her and wiggled her butt. "But I'm stronger than you, and you know it."

"Oh yeah? You think so?" Faith smirked as she moved fast and grabbed the blonde putting her over her knee. Smack! Smack! Smack! Smack! Faith's hand came down hard on Buffy's bottom.

"OWWWW!" Buffy screeched trying to escape, but Faith had a good hold of her.

"Not so fast, Twinkie." The brunette laughed delivering several more swats to the outraged little slayer.

"NO! OWWW! STOP! OUCH!" Buffy winced. "OWWW!"

"Are you going to behave?" The dark slayer paused, waiting for Buffy's answer.

"I AM SO GOING TO KICK YOUR ASS!"

"Oops! Wrong answer!" Faith delivered several more spanks to Buffy's bright red buttocks.

"OWWW! FAITH, STOP! PLEASE!" The little slayer cried out, trying to wiggle away.

"Are you going to behave and take your nap?" The brunette paused again.

"Yes. Yes. Now stop..." Buffy whimpered, sniffling as Faith released her.

"Okay. Now lay down."

"YOU BITCH!" Buffy swung at her, but Faith dodged the blow and pulled the small slayer against her.

"Settle down. You had that coming and you know it." The brunette beauty chuckled as she gently kissed Buffy's nose.

"Owie... now my bottom's sore." Buffy pouted, reaching down to rub her little butt.

Faith chuckled. "Here, roll over." The little slayer glanced at her with some doubt but obeyed.

Laying on her stomach, she could feel Faith's soft lips tenderly kissing away the sting. *Mmmm... that feels nice...* Buffy's eyes slid shut. She could feel the moisture gathering between her legs. Soon she was soaked as Faith mouth continued to carefully caress her bare bottom.

"Better?" The dark slayer asked, lifting herself off the smaller girl.

"Oh yeah. Better. Kiss me more." Buffy rolled over and spread her legs. "Kiss me here." She pointed to her bald little pussy. "Pleasssseeeee."

Part 26 - The Circle

Faith peered over and smiled. "Buffy Summers, you are the frickin' horniest slayer ever. Jesus!" She laughed and settled between Buffy's legs.

The little blonde tilted her head back and moaned as Faith's lips touched her. "Yes, Faithy... mmmm.... oh yessss... lick me... oh fuck... omigod!" Her hands tangled in the brunette's hair as she pulled her close.

Faith licked slowly, savoring the taste. *Little Buffy snacks... yummy...* She could hear the older slayer's moans.

"Faith, kneel over my face. I want to taste you too." Buffy pleaded, tugging at the brunette.

"Okay, hang on." The dark slayer stood up to remove her pants. She kicked them off and crawled over Buffy.

The green-eyed beauty grabbed her tight and buried her face between her legs. "Oh Faith!" She moaned it out as she eagerly lapped at Faith's soaked pussy. "I love you."

Faith couldn't hear past her own groans of pleasure as she tensed up and shuddered. "Holy fuck!" She came hard and fell against the tiny blonde. Sliding two fingers into Buffy, she gently stroked inside of her as she continued to lavish attention on Buffy's swollen little clit.

The small slayer cried out, arching her back. "OMIGOD FAITH! OHHH! YESSSS! RIGHT THERE! AHHHHHHH! FUCK ME HARDER! AHHHHHHH!" She fell against the bed shaking and sweating. Still gasping for air, Buffy giggled. "My ears are ringing."

Faith smiled and pulled her into her arms, teasing her. "So tell me again, how you're really straight."

Buffy looked away. "I am. It's just you, Faith. You're the only woman I want."

The dark slayer chuckled. "I can live with that. We won't call you gay then. You can be straight all you want, B. As long as it's straight to bed with me."

"Argh! Too cheesy!." Buffy swatted at her playfully. "My nap... I want my nap. Hold me."

"You're high maintenance, B." Faith feigned irritation as she carefully took the tiny slayer into her arms.

"Yes, but I'll cook for you."

"About that..." Faith laughed as Buffy pinched her.

"Not nice!"

..............................

Giles drew the circle and had Buffy step inside. "Okay, everyone light your candles please."

The group quickly went through the healing spell. Buffy fainted and fell to the ground. Faith's first instinct was to run to her, but the watcher reached out and held her back. "Faith, you mustn't enter the circle."

"But look at her! She looks so pale." The brunette turned back toward the tiny slayer. "B! B! Open your eyes, please... I love you. Please, get up!" She grabbed hold of Giles and shook him. "WHAT DID YOU DO TO HER!"

Spike and Xander pulled her off the watcher. "Faith, calm down. You have to be patient."

Willow walked up and took the dark slayer's hand. "She's okay. I promise."

They all turned to stare at the blonde sleeping in the circle.

"How long?!" Faith glanced at the witches.

"Not until morning." Giles responded, leading everyone from the room. Faith refused to leave.

"I promise, I won't enter the circle. Just let me stay here." She laid on the floor, watching Buffy.

He nodded and left the room.

Part 27 - Peace Again

Buffy awoke slowly. She felt heavy... solid. The little slayer glanced around. Faith lay sleeping just outside the circle. She smiled at the younger slayer and gradually crawled over to her. Her whole body felt strange, but touching Faith was comforting. There was no doubt in Buffy's mind as she gazed down at the beautiful brunette.

She shook Faith gently. "Faith... Faith, wake up."

"Huh?" The younger girl mumbled, rolling over in confusion.

"Hey." Buffy kissed her lightly.

"Hey." Faith grinned back at her. "How do you feel?"

"Strange but okay. I think it worked." She leaned in and kissed Faith. The spark surged through her causing her to tremble. "Ahhhh... Faith?"

"Yes? What is it, B?"

"I'm sorry for how I've been and.... I love you."

Faith pulled the small blonde into a tight hug. "I love you too. But promise me not to cook too often." She laughed as Buffy complained.

"Hey, not nice!" The tiny slayer pinched her hard.

"Ouch!" Faith rubbed her arm then stood up, pulling Buffy with her. "We should test it, B. Let's go get the others." They went into the magic shop to find the scoobies sleeping in various places around the store.

Giles got up first. "Buffy, how are you? The pain.. is it gone?"

"I don't know." She turned to Faith. "You have to leave. Go to the house and if things get bad I'll know where you're at."

The brunette nodded and kissed her goodbye, leaving with Dawn and Tara.

They all sat around watching Buffy. She smiled almost immediately. "She's out of range, and I can't feel her, but that chill is gone. It worked."

.....................

"Do I make you happy, B?" Faith held the little blonde against her after their lovemaking.

"More than happy. I'm at peace. Promise that we'll never be apart again." Buffy rolled over and gazed at her.

Faith smiled. "I promise. Never apart again. So no more dying, got it Twinkie?!"

"I promise." Buffy leaned in for a kiss. "No more dying... for either of us."

The End