CHAPTER 11

 

"Okay, lets make some more introductions before Buffy's face stays that way," I narrowed my eyes and pointed at Sara while Mom and Willow just laughed as we headed inside.

I probably would have continued to pout if I hadn't felt Willow running her hand over my butt, and I must have made a noise loud enough to hear since Mom and Sara both looked back. I gave them a sweet smile before they headed to the front desk while Will and I hung back. Sara came towards and handed us our visitor passes, and then, I noticed there were spaces for names, so I opened the side pocket of Willow's purse to grab her ever present Sharpie. I wrote Buffy in big, bold letters on mine and copped a feel while writing Willow's name on hers.

Willow interlocked our fingers as we started following the duo down the hallway with glass walls. I could tell some of them were labs, but there were others that looked empty. I'm sure I'll find out what is what when we get a tour. We must be coming up to the hub of the lab because the volume of voices is picking up. I looked over at Willow, and she was smiling, but there was something in her eyes that told me she was thinking about something. We followed Mom and Sara into what I'm guessing is the break room, and four heads looked up at us.

"They say things happen for a reason," Mom started as I squeezed Willow's hand, "I hadn't put much stock in that adage until a couple days ago when my daughter, Buffy, showed up," I grabbed ahold of Mom's hand before she continued, "Her girlfriend, Willow, flew in this morning, and they are the main reason I wanted to have breakfast with you guys this morning, and to speed things up a little, Willow and Buffy meet Greg, Nick, Warrick and Gil," they all raised their hands as they were introduced, and I decided to get some payback.

"Hi guys, I'm not sure if they told, but these two have nicknames," I started giggling when I felt Mom's nails dig into my palm, "This is Heckle and Jeckle, and before they try and deny it, they have shirts to prove it," Greg and Nick lost while Warrick and Gil were trying really hard to keep a straight face.

"Oh Cat, you have your hands full, don't you? And let me guess, Lindsay is completely over the moon," Warrick asked as I started to giggle louder.

"And then some, she is loving the whole big sister thing. Plus, she and Buffy have this tag team pout-face that is just wrong. Another thing guys, best behavior or Nancy is going to be pissed," Mom explained as I noticed the foursome straightened up at the last bit. So, Nancy is the scary one.

Mom led us out and gave Scott directions as to where we were going, and she gave Willow a hug before walking over towards Sara, who had just come out with the guys. I figured out during breakfast why. Sara must have warned them about keeping their questions friendly and less probing. It also showed me that they are a loyal bunch, so they will be involved in the secret sharing, but I want them to get to know Buffy before introducing them to Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Gil had picked up the check as he and the guys slowly left leaving only the four of us.

Mom reached her hand over and placed it over mine, "You know girls, we can pick up Lindsay if you want to spend more alone time together."

"Nah, that's okay. Besides, we were planning on taking her to the park in case you guys wanted to," I didn't get to finish since Willow covered my mouth with her hand.

"You will not finish that sentence, right Buffy?" nodding as I noticed I was getting a stern Resolve-face, "Sorry. Buffy tends to let her mouth talk before she thinks, right Buffy?" nodding again as Willow pulled her hand away.

"Yeah, Catherine sometimes has that problem too, and something tells me we are going to love having you around. Now we'll get out of your hair, so you can have some alone time," Sara said smiling as I watched Mom narrow her eyes, and I caught a 'You'll pay for that, Sidle' before the door closed.

Willow and I got a couple mochas before we left, and Mom must have told Scott our agenda since he asked if we were heading straight to the ice rink. I nodded before relaxing in the back seat just drinking our coffee and enjoying being together, but one look into Willow's eyes, I knew she was still thinking about something. It would have to wait until we were a little more alone. I'm just hoping it isn't anything major.

When we arrived at the rink, Will took us back to the trunk and pulled this small duffle out. I noticed right away that she had gotten my skates cleaned and sharpened, and then, I saw her set and realized that she was serious about what she said earlier about learning to skate. I'll have to ask Roger if I can get more time, and if necessary, get Aunt Nancy to apply some pressure. We walked inside, and he must have known we were coming since he was waiting on us.

"Buffy?" nodding at his question, "Nancy described you to a T, and the rink is yours all day, and I'll even open up the kitchen, so you don't skip lunch," Damn, my aunt IS quietly threatening.

"Thanks Roger. If it isn't too much trouble, I need you to tell me when it is two-thirty. I'm picking up my little sister," His smile grew mentioning Lindsay. Yep, she will keep you smiling.

I was figuring on a training-type rink, but it was a fully sized official rink. I could live here. I led Willow over to a bench and did up my skates quickly before showing her the proper way to tie on skates, but before I let her get on the ice, I did a couple laps just to make sure I still had my legs.

"C'mon sweetie, I promise not to let you fall on your butt," mine was a different story. I placed my hands on her hips to keep her steady while letting her feel out the ice just gliding across it, and I also remembered another way to keep her busy, keep her distracted, "So, what are you thinking about, Will?" I kept it vague since I wasn't quite sure what was occupying her brain.

"I don't really understand this," Okay, I knew she didn't mean the skating, "You sort of surprised me when you didn't take off after I activated all those Slayers, especially after the last two years. I mean there was a mutiny that led to us kicking out of your house," Yep, we are peas in a pod. She has been doing the same second guessing that I had been doing, and considering I know how she grew up, I can understand why she is thinking that.

I made a couple strides to keep us moving, "Willow, Mom was right earlier, things do happen for a reason. The first five years we knew each other built a very strong bond, and yeah, the last couple years have been rough, but we pushed through them to get to this," I was probably going to have to get more direct, but I'll make the adjustments as I need to.

"Buffy, how can you say that? I tore you out of heaven, and then proceeded down a path that almost destroyed me, not to mention hurting all my friends," pulling her in for a tight hug while I started to feel her tears on my neck.

"Willow, you had no idea where I was, and I wasn't exactly forthcoming, but we worked through that too," lifting her chin up while I kept us moving, "You saved me after Warren shot me. Yes, you thought about payback, but Xander talked you down, and then Giles took you to England, so The Coven could teach you the right way to use your power," leaning forward to kiss her, "Sure, your return was interesting, and you missed out on posable Dawn, but I got to help you," kissing her again as I slowly turned us.

"I love you, Buffy Anne Flynn-Summers, and you may call me your anchor, but you are mine as well. After that sunny day out in the school's courtyard, you showed me what love, respect and family are supposed to be. I don't want to know what my life would've been like if you hadn't come into it," That's my girl, always with heavy thinking.

"I love you too, Willow Marie Rosenberg, and you showed me what TRUE friendship really was, my sweet and beautiful Wiccan," scooping her up and doing a little showing off.

 

CHAPTER 12

 

After a couple axels, I slowed us down, and Will looked no worse for wear, so I went back to showing her to the basics, and I wasn't planning on letting her do any solo skating, even if she barraged me with Resolve-faces. Although before lunch arrived, I did let her learn to balance on her own while skating ever so slightly, and once I caught the smell of the pizzas, I scooped Willow up and skated us off the ice.

I thought Roger was going to open up the kitchen, but he must have gotten a better offer since it was my aunt that brought in the pies, "Aunt Nancy, this is my girlfriend, Willow," introducing them as we came up to the table, "Even though we both grew up in California, I mastered ice skating," groaning as Willow poked me in the ribs.

"Buffy, it's California, not known for ice skating, and not all of us can be obsessed with Dorothy Hamill, and yes Nancy, I have picture evidence," I tried my pout again, but it was rebuffed - again.

My aunt smiled at me, "You've never gotten away with that have you, Buffy?" shaking my head fighting off my giggles, "And I can't wait to see those cute pictures of my niece. So, did you guys have a nice breakfast?" that's when I started laughing.

"It was fine, so there is no need for you to crack any skulls, and how did you threaten them 'cause they all straightened up when Mom gave them your warning," I wasn't expecting an answer, but hey, it's worth a try.

"Not going to happen, Buffy. Nanc is one of those quiet people who you wouldn't normally be afraid of until she does threaten, and then, it's game over," I nodded at Roger's assessment since Tara is the same way.

Lunch ended up being story time, mostly childhood stories. Nancy told Mom stories while Roger, Willow and I talked about growing up. Even though I have already heard them, I still love hearing the adventures of Willow and Xander (and Jesse). Nancy and I's stories were similar since we had sisters (even though mine weren't real at THAT time). Before Nancy left, she wanted to see me skate, and Will just egged her on while Roger cranked some music through the PA system, so I had a beat.

I started with some easy stuff which had Nancy and Willow smiling, so I added some jumps which earned me claps, and the more I did, the more I loved the feeling being back on the ice, so I just let my body take over. Everything came back to me, and with my Slayer agility, it all stuck. That was until I tried to really show off. I jumped off the ice and tightly spun, but when I came down, I wasn't balanced, so I ended up on my butt laughing.

"Wow Buffy, you are really good, and you look at home out there. And once Linds sees you, she is going to want you to teach her," Nancy said as I picked myself up.

I walked over and gave my aunt a hug, "Teaching my two favorite girls will be a pleasure, but today is pig meeting day, and that is what is on her mind today," getting another hug before Nancy hugged Willow, and Roger walked her out, "So Will, more?" getting a smiling nod, I took her back onto the ice.

When Roger announced that it was time to pick up Lindsay, Willow was fairly tired, and I offered to take her home, but she wanted to meet Lindsay, so Scott drove us to the school. Will and I waited outside the car, and I watched her eyes as they just looked around the brick building, so I leaned into ear.

"If you want to go back to school, you can. Dawn and Fred can run the office in LA, and even if you don't go back, you can do whatever you want. I love you, Willow, not what you are," kissing her cheek as the bell rang, so I faced the doors and waited for the blonde missile also known as my little sister to get launched. She came out talking to a couple friends before looking up and scanning to see who was picking her up, and then, she saw me.

"BUFFY!" my name echoed as she made quick goodbyes before sprinting across the grounds and leaping into my arms as I wrapped her tightly in a hug.

"Hi sweetie," kissing her cheek as I faced a smiling Willow, "Lindsay, this is my girlfriend, Willow Rosenberg. Willow, this is my little sister, Lindsay Willows," Lindsay shook Will’s extended hand as she opened the door, and we all slid in.

"You are very pretty, Willow," I had to smile since Linds got Will to blush within minutes of meeting her, "And you remembered to bring Miss Piggybottoms' boyfriend, right?" kissing the top of Lindsay's head at her ten-year old priorities.

"Yes, I did, Lindsay. Mr. Gordo is in my bags, and you are very pretty yourself," Will said as she wrapped her arm around us, "But before they meet, Buffy has to push us on the swings," Linds looked at me, and I nodded to back up Will’s idea since it sounded like fun.

"Buffy is a good bedtime story reader too and bed," Now Lindsay is just bragging as Scott pulled us into the park.

Lindsay held both our hands and swung them making Willow and I both laugh, "I'll have to have her read to me sometime," giving Will a wink at her suggestion.

Linds let go of my hand as she pointed out the two swings her and Willow would ride. They climbed on while I walked around behind them, so I started pushing Lindsay to get her going before doing the same for Willow, and then, I just rotated pushes. Lindsay started saying 'whee' when I pushed her, so Will decided to do it on her pushes too. On her swings back, I noticed the smile on Willow's face. I haven't seen that specific smile in so long. I guess Vegas is going to be good for her too, and I'm going to call Giles and ask why I don't sense anything here. We finally headed home. but not after Lindsay had us all take trips down the slide.

Once we got back to the car, I did the responsible thing, "Lindsay, do you have any homework?" getting a nod, "Then when we get home, you can start on it while I help Willow unpack. If you need help and Mom and Sara aren't up, ask Willow, she's a brain," blowing Will a kiss as Scott pulled into the driveway.

Mom and Sara were waiting in the doorway smiling as we came up, "Nancy tells us that you are really good, Buffy," I felt my face getting warm at Mom's comment, but Lindsay was looking out for me.

"We can talk about that later. Right now, I want to get my homework done, so the pigs can meet. Plus, I have to check on their baby," I almost forgot that Lindsay made her GigaPig, Mr. Gordo and Miss Piggybottoms' daughter, Maxine.

"So Willow, where are these albums? Catherine and I need some ammo. Buffy has had us on our heels since she arrived," Sara said smirking as I walked straight up towards her and looked up.

"Meanie. And you will see them once the pigs meet, so I suggest you help Linds," smiling proudly as Sara looked at Mom pouting.

"Willow, please tell me that you are above this," Mom begged.

"Sometimes, but more times than not, I'm as bad as Buffy," Willow said kissing my cheek as I heard Mom say 'heaven help us' as Will and I walked down the hall to our room.

I opened the door, and the first thing Willow saw was her crayon. I knew she had to be a little tired, so I sat her against the headboard before putting her bags on the bed, except for the one with our skates which went straight into the closet. I opened the bigger bag first and gave Mr. Gordo a kiss before tossing him to Willow. Then I proceeded to put everything away until the only thing left was the photo albums.

 

CHAPTER 13

 I left the albums on the end of the bed before climbing onto the bed and into Willow's embrace. We hadn't done this since my last night in LA, and it still felt like it was the first time. Then again, we did have some air cleaning while we skated. I just laid my head on her chest listening to her heart beat while she stroked my back with her fingers. I had already felt relaxed since I came here, but with Willow here now, I feel ever more so. I felt her lips kiss the top of my head, so I tilted my head up and kissed her tenderly, but before it got any deeper, there was a knock on the door.
 

"Come in," turning my head towards the door while still keeping it on Willow's chest.
 
Mom popped her head in, and I waved her in, "Linds is beside herself, but if guys need rest, I'll explain that to her," I lifted my head to see what Will thought, and she was smiling.
 
 "No, we'll be right there. I'll just sleep in tomorrow. Besides, I've been up longer when I was helping Buffy cram for a test," Willow actually means we spent all night researching the latest Big Bad, "Just have coffee handy, and I'll be fine."
 
"That's not a problem. Mom and Sara are big into coffee, and it's top of the line stuff too," helping Willow up before scooping up Mr. Gordo and handing him to Mom, "This is Mr. Gordo. He has been with me for as long as I can remember," Mom handed him back as Willow handed her the photo albums, "Is there anyway I can bribe either one of you into not opening them?"
 
"Nope," they both said kissing me on the cheeks before we headed down the hall.
 
We came into the room to find Lindsay pinned to the couch being tickled by Sara, "Finally. I thought I might have to hog tie her," then I saw Sara's eyes focus on the albums in Mom's arms, "Are those?" Goddess, help me.
 
I kept the hand holding Mr. Gordo behind my back as Lindsay walked up to me with her two pigs, and then, we both headed to the table and sat down. I pulled my pig from behind my back, "Lindsay, this is Mr. Gordo," her eyes lit up when I handed him to her, "and as long as I can see him once in awhile, you can keep him in your room."
 

"Really?" giving her a nod, "Well, I do have sleepovers, so you will need to babysit them then," giving her another nod as I gave her a hug while she sat Mr. Gordo in front of Miss Piggybottoms, "Miss Piggybottoms, this is your boyfriend, Mr. Gordo," then she introduced him to her, "and this is your daughter, Maxine," I was beaming while listening to Lindsay do the whole pomp and circumstance before turning to me, "I'm going to take them upstairs, so they can bond alone."
 
"Okay, but hurry back, we're going to be looking at pictures of me and my family," she nodded before scooping up all the pigs and heading upstairs while I walked over and sat between Mom and Willow.
 

Lindsay came quickly running back down the steps and sat in Sara's lap before Willow placed the first album in Mom and I's lap. I shouldn't have been shocked that we started with mine. The little-Buffy pictures got the typical 'AWWWs' from everyone, and then we hit the ice skating pics with my Dorothy Hamill do. Mom kissed my cheek and told me I was cute. Next was Cheerleader Buffy, and Will squeezed my hand tighter knowing how I was like then. It was at that point that I hadn't realized how much Mom kept up with what I was doing. Finally, we hit the Sunnydale pics, school functions, dances and Prom. Willow had gone with Oz, but she wanted me to have a picture, so she talked the photographer into taking a picture of us.
 
Mom put her arm around me, "Joyce did a wonderful job raising you, Buffy, and I wish I could thank her for making you the wonderful woman that you are today," I sat the album on the table before fully hugging Mom.
 
"You just did. Ever since she died, I've felt that she has been watching over all her kids. Plus, you are saying thank you by helping me now," kissing her cheek before retaking my seat, "Now, who wants to meet the rest of the Scoobies?" After a round of me's, Willow handed me the other album.
 
I opened the cover, and the first picture was of all nine of us, "Okay, this handsome man in the back is Giles. He is our dad/mentor guy. The silly grinning guy beside him is Xander. He and Willow go way back, and he is the best brother anyone could ever ask for. You know Willow and I, and beside me, is Faith. She is our black sheep, but has my back whenever I need her. Next to her is her girlfriend, Tara. We adopted her in our first year college and has been stuck with us ever since. Anya is Xander's wife. She was brought to us in our senior year of high school, and finally, this is Dawn, my 'younger' sister. I haven't been able to call her my little sister since she was fourteen, but now, I have another one," reaching over to tickle Lindsay, "Our newest member is Kennedy. She and Dawn met last year and haven't been apart since," I stayed on that picture to wait and see if anyone had questions.
 
Sara did, "Okay, I get how all you kids got together, but Giles seems to be the odd member," I kind of anticipated that and had a half truth answer.
 
"Well when I transferred to Sunnydale, I was told that Willow was the person to help me catch up, so we would meet up in the library to study. Xander was getting tutoring from her too which meant he would be in there too, and before we knew it, Giles was helping too. I found out later that he helped my mom meet people in the art community, so it
became a full circle kind of thing," I found out about the gallery part when I came from LA after running away.
 
That must have satisfied Sara, so I started flipping through the pages. I pointed out Oz and Cordelia when pictures of them popped up, and I was a little surprised at myself when I remembered most of the times that the pictures were taken, and then, Mom stopped on a picture of Faith and I kissing.
 
"Dawn set that up. Xander had bought her a mistletoe on a string, and in my defense, she had a lot of kissing that night. In fact, it was the first time Willow and I kissed, and I got Dawn back too. I had taken it off of her and was chasing her around when she ran into Xander, so I held it up. At the time, she had the biggest crush on him, and while I did the mean sister thing, Xander being the gentleman that he is made it special for her," Willow ended up laying her head on my shoulder as we went through the rest of the album.
 
Mom put it on top of the other one before kissing my cheek again, "Buffy, I'm glad you got a family that loved you, and that you had fun with. I'm also glad that we get to add to our family with the three of us, Nancy and the guys. I can't wait to meet the people in these pictures, especially Dawn. She seems to have your number, and Sara and I could use the help," I looked over at Lindsay and gave her a wink before starting to tickle Mom as Lindsay quickly joined in.
 
After our full blown tickle fight, Mom sent Willow and I to bed to nap until dinner. Lindsay ended up heading upstairs to check on the pigs, so Will and I kicked off our shoes before I laid down and patted my chest. Willow threw an arm and leg over me before laying her head on my shoulder.
 
“Buffy, we're going to have to tell them sooner rather than later. They are CSIs, and I'm sure they have seen things, so it might not be too big of a stretch, and can you tell me a story?" leave it to Willow to start off serious, and end up going the opposite way.
 
 “Yeah, I know. I just want to know how big this family is. I mean they work with the police, so who there is in the inner circle, and I'd be lying if Mom's reaction to my calling isn't bouncing around in my head," kissing Willow's forehead as she interlocked our fingers, "Story, huh?" laughing at the rapid head nodding while I started to think.
 
I remembered an old story that I used to tell Dawn when she would come into my room after Mom and Dad had been fighting. It was your typical princess one, but it always did the trick with Dawn, and halfway through, Willow was asleep, but I continued until I was finished. I kissed the top of Will’s head before closing my eyes and joining her in
slumber.
 
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AN: There are no Andrew pictures because in my Buffyverse he was arrested during the Troika's heist attempt and never escaped.

 

 

CHAPTER 14

 

Spoilers for this chapter: Fur and Loathing
AN: For the sake of this chapter, Grissom/Nick were on the one case, and Cath/Sara were on the Raccoon one. Enjoy =)
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Slowly but surely, we all started getting into a comfortable pattern around each other. Willow and I would make sure Lindsay was taken care when Mom and Sara were working, and Nancy wasn't available while also still getting couples time. Will and I have had a few more skating dates, and she is picking it up faster than I thought she would. Plus, she has been checking on courses at Western LVU. It surprised me that she didn't press me, but I think she knew I was still getting used to being Buffy Flynn-Summers.
 
I was doing my morning ritual swimming when Willow came out smiling, so I swam over to the side of the pool and propped my head up on my arms, "What has you so happy?" like it mattered, I love seeing that smile.
 
"I found something we can do today, but you have to hurry up and shower, so we don't miss the first lecture," I was already drying myself when she told me we had plans and was surprised that the word 'lecture' didn't scare me.
 
I did however try to tempt Will by dropping my bikini to the floor before putting on my robe, but she barely flinched, so I ran to the shower, and instead of a Buffy shower, I just washed up and headed back to the bedroom where I found clothes already laid out for me. I was fine with the shorts, but the shirt with the kitty on it wigged me a little,
but it smelled like Willow, so I put it on, and then went to look for her.
 
Another change was Scott. Sara had started taking Willow out to show her the easiest ways to get around Vegas, so we let Scott stick around until somebody else needed him. Anyway, I noticed that Willow drove us to King's River Hotel, and let me just say, my mind went straight for the gutter, but that was until I saw the sign in the lobby that said
PAFCON. It was a Plushies and Furries convention. Of course, it's Vegas, and then, I saw a six foot weasel.
 
"I love you, Willow, but I'm not dressing up as Mr. Gordo," I wasn't sure why we were here, but I wanted to make that clear.
 
"Well good. I love you, Buffy, not Mr. Gordo. I just thought this looked neat and wanted to check it out, okay?" I answered her by kissing her tenderly and then taking her hand. I also noticed that is was almost ten-thirty, so it was time for the first lecture of the day.
 
Before it started, I looked around and noticed that not everybody was wearing an animal costume. Some were dressed like Will and I, so I relaxed while still holding onto Willow's hand and got ready for the lecture to start. As I was listening, I started to think that if didn't have Will this would be a good way to meet someone. I mean think about.
You meet someone that you don't know what they look like, but you develop a relationship with the things that really matter. 
 
When it ended, Willow pulled me up, "C'mon Buffy, it's time to see if we can add to Lindsay's menagerie," I didn't know what she meant until I check on the schedule and saw it was time for the furry raffle, so we headed off to the main lobby.
 
I had my arms wrapped around Willow's waist as we watched her numbers while the emcee read them off. I think she really wanted to win something, but I couldn't really tell. When they read the last number, I took her hand and headed to check out the booths before the next lecture. I played a hunch as I leaned into her ear.
 
"How about before we go home you drive us to the mall, and I will buy you whatever Build-A-Bear you want," my smile got bigger as I saw hers curl up too.
 
"What if there is more than one that calls to me to take them home?" Yeah, like I have been able to say no to that face.
 
"I'll buy out the store if that is what it takes," she gave me a quick kiss before laying her head on my shoulder as we killed time before the next lecture.
 
 As we walked around, I was starting to understand Las Vegas. From the outside, it looks like this flashy town with nothing but casinos, strippers and hookers, but now that I've been here for awhile, it is no different than any other town. Okay, that's not completely true. There aren't many places that you can get married in most towns. Where Sunnydale had churches and graveyards, Vegas has casinos and wedding chapels. From where we were at, I could see they were starting to let people in for the lecture, and then a voice stopped us.
 
"Fancy meeting you two here," No, it can't be. Sara wouldn't bring Mom here as I turned us around to find Mom and Sara wearing their CSI vests. Oh yeah, this has blackmail written all over it.
 
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Grissom had made sure not to pair Sara and I together too much to appease the higher ups, but I was glad that he put us on this one since I had a gut feeling this was going to end up a double. I knew Nancy had Lindsay taken care of, and Buffy and Willow are grown women, so as long as I don't run into them at PD or get a call from the ER, I'll let them live their lives.
 
Sara and I headed over to the totaled car while I heard the truck driver telling the officer that he was sober behind me. We took at the damage before noticing the skid marks. Then the skid marks led to paw prints, big ones, so after looking at Sara we followed them until they led over to the side of the road. I grabbed my flashlight and was
shining it down the hill until I saw it.
 
It was a man in a raccoon suit, and we collected a little evidence as David came over. He looked wigged (Buffy and Willow taught it to Lindsay, so I picked it up too). Once he collected our 'furry friend', Sara and I decided to head back with him to see if we could figure out how Linda Jones and a guy in a raccoon suit both end up dead.
 
Surprisingly, we got back to the lab, and the pieces just started to fall into place. Not only was Rocky Raccoon hit by a car, he was shot, and after stopping in to check with Warrick, we found out his name was Robert Pitt, and then, Greg throws a curve ball by saying the fur ball we found had ipecac and civet oil on it. I knew about ipecac, and Greg
filled us in on civet oil. Sara decided to check out the car while Brass and I headed over to Mr. Pitt's residence, and that's when I found out he was going to something called PAFCON, so I called Sara to meet me at the King's River Hotel.
 
 She was standing in the doorway of the lobby as I walked in, "PAFcon?" Yeah, like Sara knew anymore than I did.
 
 She just gave me her sweet smile, "Plushies and Furries convention. And we're looking for a bright blue Plushie...I think."
 
I pinched the bridge of my nose trying to stave off more wigging while Sara started to look like she was getting into one of Grissom-esque zones. We discussed why people would do this, and even though I was still weirded out, Sara's explanations made sense, so I decided to keep an open mind, and then, Sara pointed to the schedule.
 
"I'm going to take in a lecture," she said as I was about to do some looking around, but Sara stopped me and pointed to the blonde and redhead. No way, my daughter and her girlfriend were at the PAF con, "Fancy meeting you two here," I stood beside Sara smiling as they turned around.
 
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"Hey guys, small world, huh?" Nice Buffy, you can't come up with anything, so you fall back on your girlfriend's habit.
 
"This was my idea. Buffy had nothing to do with it," Wow, Willow still isn't good under pressure. She still folds quickly.
 
Mom reached out a touched Willow's shoulder, "Relax Willow, we're here in an official capacity, but since you're here, have you seen any bright blue Plushies?" Hey, I can help with this.
 
I had to think about our earlier activities and replay everybody that I saw, "I've only seen a few, but we've been sticking to the schedule, so there could still be more," Mom gave us both hugs as Sara came with us. Oh yeah, this is going to be bad.
 
After the lecture was over, Sara went to track down Mom while Will and I headed to the banquet hall for lunch. Following that, we did a little more looking around before catching the last lecture, and instead of staying, we decided to head over to my aunt's. I knew Mom and Sara were probably home sleeping after their long day, so I would see what the dinner sitch was before going from there. When we pulled into the driveway, I saw Lindsay's head peek through the curtains, and I knew I was in store for the little sister missile. I carried Lindsay inside while also holding Willow's hand. We came in, and Nancy and Roger were sitting on the couch watching TV.
 
My aunt looked up smiling, "I was hoping you guys were coming over. Would you like to stay for dinner?" Willow said yes and followed my aunt into the kitchen while I headed into the living room.
 
"Buffy, I have a proposition for you," Roger said as I sat down.

 

CHAPTER 15

 
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I have no idea what Roger could have to offer me, but I might as well hear him out, "Okay."
 
"Buffy, I've been watching you teach Willow how to skate, and I think you could teach people who just want to know the basics. I want to offer you a job as a skating teacher, and you could set your own schedule depending on the amount of people interested," I was just letting what he said sink in when Lindsay kissed my cheek.
 

"Will you teach me, Buffy?" Lindsay asked while bouncing on my leg as I smiled at her enthusiasm, and if Willow went back to school, we wouldn't see each other until the weekend, and then, it hit me.
 
"Yes sweetie, I will teach you," kissing her cheek as she climbed off my lap and headed into the kitchen as I turned back to Roger, "Actually, I could teach adults during the week and the kids on the weekends," feeling better about coming here now that it looks I have a purpose.
 
"Okay Buffy, I'll put the word out and see what happens. Now let’s go into the kitchen and find out what's going on in there," he said offering me a hand up.
 
We walked into the kitchen to find my aunt and Willow both in aprons cooking while Lindsay was bragging about how her big sister was going to teach her and other people how to ice skate. Roger put his arm around me as he led us to the table before pulling out my chair. It's nice to know that there are still gentlemen out there, and I know three of them. I'm going to ask Mom if she needs Willow and I tonight because if she
doesn't, I want to use the hotel room to talk things over with Will.
 
Dinner was definitely entertaining, and I'm starting to really like the family-style ones. Since Lindsay was over, the menu was spaghetti and meatballs along with garlic bread, her favorites. Plus, she was the conversationalist, and elementary school hasn't changed that much since I was there, and then, she went onto the topic of Halloween.
 
"Buffy, since it's our first together, you and Willow are my chaperones when I go trick or treating," Lindsay said as I flashbacked to the last time I took kids out.
 
"We would love to, Lindsay. In fact, we'll go costume shopping while you are at school tomorrow," Oh yeah, Willow and I are totally going to talk tonight.
 
After some ice cream, Willow drove the three of us home, and I was feeling a little better about Halloween, but not much. It helped to know that Ethan was still in someone's custody. Plus, Giles informed me that the demon community considers Las Vegas too high risk. They prefer less extravagant cities. Go figure, they avoid Vegas cause it's too bright.
 

We came in to find Mom and Sara cuddling on the couch watching TV, and they shut it off before I could see what they were watching, "Will, could you take Linds upstairs?" sitting on the table as they headed up, "I was wondering if it would be okay if Willow and I spent the night at a hotel. There are some things I want to talk over with her," Then, I
saw the wheels turning in Sara's head, "Not that, and watch it, we were drafted in taking Lindsay out trick or treating, so be nice."
 
Mom reached out and took my hand, "Buffy, I don't expect you to live here for the rest of your life, and if you want a night alone, that's fine. We have the night off, so Linds is taken care of, so you and Willow should go and 'enjoy' yourself," I can't believe Mom  just went there as I said a thank you while shaking my head as I headed down the hall. It was only night, so we wouldn't need much.
 
Willow was waiting for me as I came out with the bag over my shoulder. I gave Mom and Sara a hug as Lindsay came down and hugged Will and I before we left. I spent the ride thinking that Willow would be happy about the coaching which means the bulk of our time would be spent making out, maybe more. We haven't really discussed making love, but it's something that we are working towards. For me, it's a big step, and considering my past experiences, I really don't want to rush into this.
 
"Penny for your thoughts?" turning to Willow smiling at the sound of her voice.
 
"You know me, Will. I'm trying to get my thoughts together so you can follow what I'm talking about," she kissed my hand before taking it as we headed inside, and for some reason, I felt like we were being stared at as we headed for the elevators. I just shrugged it off seeing though I had gone through high school that way.
 
Willow pulled out the keycard as we walked down the hallway toward our room, and after letting us in, she took us over to the couch. "Enough stalling Buffy, what's really going on in that head of yours?" I leaned forward and kissed my to the point girlfriend.
 
"Yes, ma'am. Roger made me an offer to teach skating, and I said yes since I will teach adults while you are in class, and maybe, you can help me teach kids on the weekends. I was going to bitch about Halloween, but I'm just being paranoid about that," smiling at my good news hoping Willow will feel the same.
 
This time, she leaned forward and kissed me, "Buffy, that is great news, and I've seen you on the ice with me and by yourself, and the look on your face is one of pure joy, and I would also be honored to be your TA. About our costumes, you forget that I would sense magics. Now let’s relax before getting some sleep," taking Willow at her word, I kicked
off my shoes before lifting Willow's feet up and taking her off.
 
                                   ---
 
The next morning, I woke up to someone knocking on the door, so I gently peeled Willow off me before walking to the door and seeing that it was somebody from the staff, so I opened the door, "Yes?"
 

"Mr. Braun would like to speak with you," Who the hell is Mr. Braun, and what does he want?
 
"Alright, give me a couple minutes," closing the door before slipping my shoes on and scribbling a note to Willow hoping I would be back before she woke up.
 
I came out, and the guy led us to the elevator at the far end of the hall, and when the door opened, there were two no-necks inside. The Slayer was now piqued since this was Vegas, and I wasn't taking any chances. I opened my senses and didn't feel any evil, so this was totally human-related. The next time the elevators opened, they opened to an office where a balding white-haired man approached me. I'm guessing Mr. Braun.
 
"So, you are my trouble making granddaughter," He knows about me. I don't know about him. There is a simple answer why.
 

 "Sorry, you have me at a disadvantage. Mom's never mentioned you," Not the best option, but I wasn't backing down.
 

 "I see you have your Muggs' temper. Then again, I've read your file, and you have more than a temper. Does Muggs know?" She doesn't, but she has made it clear she doesn't care what happened before.
 
"If she does, it didn't bother her, and I'm guessing since you're a big bully, you sent her a copy. Which leads me to believe she doesn't respect your opinion - either," I started to come closer to show him I wasn't scared, even though his stooges were following.
 

 "You might want to watch that mouth of yours. It might get you into trouble," Now that sounded like a threat.     
 
"You don't scare me, old man. If you have any idea as to what I am, you might want to watch it, and your friend might want to take his hand off his weapon before it gets him hurt." The old man just laughed, so I got even closer, "I'll be going now, but I'll leave you with this. Don't come anywhere near any member of my family - ever," I turned around and walked past the two stooges while keeping myself aware.
 
"Mr. Braun isn't done talking to you," one of them said grabbing my shoulder as I snapped his wrist before shoving it hard into a chicken wing bringing him to his knees.
 
"Let that be your final warning," letting the guy go as I walked to the elevator and headed back upstairs.
 
 Willow was still sleeping when I came in, so I crumpled up the note before heading to the shower to cool off. While I let the water flow over me, I didn't know if I made something worse, but I did know that I would have to assemble the family soon and let them know my secret before Braun decided to do it for me. I had just started to lather up
when I felt hands cover my breasts.
 
"You should have told me you were showering. You know I can wash your back better than you," Willow said kissing my back as I passed her the soap to let her help.
 
After getting dressed, we headed for the mall to look for costumes. The cheesy places were picked clean, so Willow and I went into the high end Halloween shops and found Daphne and Velma costumes. While we were checking out, we decided to grab some breakfast before heading home, but as soon as we stepped out of the costume, there was a cop in a suit flanked by three other officers.
 
"Buffy Summers, I have a warrant for your arrest," Nicely played, old man.
 
I turned to Willow handing her the bag, "Call Mom and Giles."  

 

CHAPTER 16

------------------------------------------------------------
 
Last night was nice. It was like old times, just me, Lindsay and Sara, but it didn't feel complete. I have they haven't been here all that long, but the night felt like it was missing something. I know that Buffy and Willow need some alone time, and I'm just being selfish, but the family atmosphere has changed so much since I found Buffy standing
in our doorway.
 
And just like old times, Sara carried Lindsay upstairs to her bedroom after she fell asleep during the movie, so I headed to our bedroom after locking up and changed into my (actually Sara's) Harvard tee and panties before turning down the bed and then waiting for Sara to give me 'The Show'. I know Sara still doesn't understand how I can see her as
beautiful, but I'm sure the when she watches my eyes take in her body while she undresses helps a lot.
 
Sara walked into the bedroom and started blushing when she noticed me staring, so she shut and locked the door, "You know, it's the same show you have already seen, Cath," I love how she tries to play it off.
 

"Answer me this Sara," smirking as she put her hands on her hips, "Do you still get turned on when you see me strip before bed?" Her eyes gave away her answer, "I rest my case, now get naked."
 
 ---
 
The plan was to go back to sleep after dropping Lindsay off at school, but the phone was ringing just as we walked in. Sara and I both looked at each other and mouthed 'Grissom' before I picked up, but it was Willow, and before I got to ask anything, she just said Buffy was arrested and then hung up. I was stunned not understanding what just happened, and my head started to spin, so I handed Sara the keys before heading back to the car.
 
I repeated what Willow told me as we got in, and Sara just backed out and headed towards PD while I tried to put things together. I knew they were staying at the hotel room that Scott had been using, so it couldn't be anything to do with that which lead me to what she did before she came here. Was she running from something? No, I wasn't thinking that. Buffy is my daughter, and she needs my support, but we do need to have a
serious talk soon. I was brought out of my internal ramblings by Sara pulling up to a stop at PD.
 
Sara and I walked in, and Brass was already waiting for us, "I didn't know, Catherine. Gil told me that she is your daughter, so I'm holding off processing her since you might be able to make the charges go away," I started to relax until his last statement.
 
"How can I possibly do that?" Not that I wouldn't try anyway.
 
"Sam is the one who brought the charges against her," Oh, now that is the last straw.
 
"Sara, can you keep her company?" at her nod, I gave her a quick kiss before heading out the door and driving over to my mother's.
 
------------------------------------------------------------
 
This wasn't the first time I've been in handcuffs, but not since Faith and I got busted in that sporting goods store. I saw the helpless look in Willow's eyes, so I told her I loved her before the officers escorted me out of the mall with the older gentleman leading us. I
couldn't have cared less about the stares I was getting since I have been getting looks ever since I was activated as a Slayer, but I did feel like an ass for letting Braun play me. Plus, this was going to look bad on Mom, and that's what hurt the most.
 
The drive to the police station didn't take all that long, and as I was about to be put into an interrogation room, I saw Gil pull the older guy aside. I couldn't help but eavesdrop as Gil told Brass that I was Catherine's daughter. Looks like I have the inner circle. Now I can come clean and hope they don't think Will and I are crazy when I tell them about Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Before he walked away, Gil gave me a wink. What does that mean? Brass turned around and gave me a smile. Now what does that mean?
 
"Take her to my office and just wait outside," he explained to only one of the officers as I was taken further down the hall and into an office that was a mix of cologne and coffee. The officer took off my cuffs before leaving me to my thoughts.
 
And then it hit me as I dropped my head and started to cry. This was supposed to be my do over, and yeah, it started out that way, but as my life goes, something happens to screw it all up. Not to mention I hid why I got arrested from Willow. I must have been really out of it because I didn't know Sara was there until she placed her hand on my
shoulder. I turned around with the tears still flowing.
 

"It's going to be okay, Buffy. I promise," Sara said as I jumped out my chair and into her arms.
 
----------------------------------------------------------
 
I was glad traffic was light because I was seriously considering using my sirens on the way to Mom's house. If she knows anything about this, she is going to have some serious work to get back into my good graces, but something told me that yes, my mother loves Sam Braun, but she wasn't one of his lackeys. I skidded the car in park as I headed up
her steps and knocked on the door.
 
"Catherine, is something wrong?" I pinched my nose at her question.
 
"Did you know Sam had Buffy arrested?" Mom is a good actress, but the look of shock on her face is Oscar-worthy if she is lying.
 
"No, I don't, and I don't know why he would," she must have read my mind because she grabbed her purse and keys, "He's at the Rampart today," Good, I know where his office is there.
 
I was glad Mom wasn't in a chatty mood since my frame of  mind was quickly heading towards an angry one. Sam preaches family, but he has his granddaughter arrested. I know he sent over Buffy's file when I told Mom about her, but that was his warped way of protecting me. I was white-knuckling the steering wheel when I felt Mom's hand touch my arm before telling me that it was going to be okay. She was damn right it was. He may have screwed up things with me, but I can still play the Lindsay card. She has no idea the man he is, but if he insists on pursuing this with Buffy, I won't be able to shield her from that.
 
I tossed the keys to the valet as we pulled up to the hotel, and Mom and I both walked with a purpose towards Sam's office. We came to his doors, and I noticed Phillip in a cast. Nah, it couldn't be. They let us in, and Sam was smiling as he rose from his desk. Oh, I was going to enjoy this.
 
"My two favorite girls, what did I do to get such a good morning?" With that, I saw red.
 
  "You had my daughter arrested, and if you don't drop the charges,
you'll never see Lindsay again," Mom held my arm, so I stayed in
control.
 
"Did you see what she did to Phillip?" Okay, that answers that question, but I don't believe Buffy would do that unprovoked.
 
"What did you do?" I'm not stupid. Sam is no angel.
 
"We talked," His talking isn't most people's talking. Sam was Old
Vegas.
 
"You threatened our granddaughter," Now it was my turn to hold onto Mom.
 
"But..." he wasn't finishing that thought.
 
"Drop the charges, Sam, while Lindsay still thinks her grandpa hung the moon," he picked up his phone and dialed while Mom and I watch him have a conversation before hanging up.
 
"Done," Mom and I just turned around leaving him to think about what he did, and as we climbed into the car, I invited Mom over to meet her granddaughter.
 
----------------------------------------------------------
 
Sara just held me in her arms while stroking my back until Willow came in. I gave her a hug as she left Willow and I to talk. How do I tell her what I did. She whispered in my ear that she loved me, and I gave her a kiss before telling her the same. Telling her could wait, I needed to feel her strength right now. I was resting my head in her lap while she ran her fingers through my hair when Sara came back in.
 
"The charges have been dropped, Buffy. We can go, and Catherine just called, we're having lunch with your grandmother, Lily," she explained as I looked at Willow.
 
"Would it be possible to assemble the guys and Brass, there is something I need to say, and only want to do it once," Sara gave me a look before nodding, "Do you need a ride home?" she smiled and shook her head no leaving as Willow helped me up before we headed out the door.
 
I started to explain the mornings happenings on the drive home, and I knew from her mannerisms that I had some sucking up to do, but she kissed at the first stop light. We swung by our favorite coffee place for a couple mochas before really heading home. I wasn't all that surprised with extra cars as we pulled into the driveway. I squeezed Willow's hand as she leaned to give me another kiss.
 
"What was that for?" Hey, I'm blonde.
 
"I love you, Buffy Flynn-Summers," Good enough for me as I kissed her back before telling her that I loved her too.

 

CHAPTER 17

 

Willow let me set the pace as we walked to the door since she knew what I was about to do could quite possibly ruin everything I have done here up to this point. I took a deep breath as I opened the front door into a noisy and filled living room, but once they all saw me, it got dead quiet as they all sat down, giving me center stage. Oh boy.
 
Willow interlocked our fingers while I looked around at my new family hoping what I was about to say wouldn't change that, "Hi guys, I've assembled you all here to answer the questions I'm sure some of you having been asking yourselves about me. Yes, I'm Buffy Flynn-Summers, but that is only half of who I am. I'm also Buffy the Vampire Slayer. One girl in all the world chosen to fight the forces of darkness. My old hometown of Sunnydale didn't become a sinkhole because of an earthquake-like the news said. There was this entity calling itself The First trying to end the Slayer line by having Potential Slayers killed, but with the help of Willow, we were able to defeat it by harnessing the
power of a long forgotten Slayer weapon which activated all the Potentials we had been training," It wasn't the full story, but we can hash out the details later as I looked at the shocked faces around the room.
 
 "How were you able to harness this weapon's power?" leave it to Gil to ask the question that exposes Willow more.
 
"Magic," all eyes went to Sara with just her one word.
 
"Sara?" Mom asked as even I was intrigued with what she had said.
 
"Buffy isn't making this up. Back when I was in San Francisco, there were these two Inspectors, Andy Trudeau and Darryl Morris. There were tons of rumors that they had quite a few supernatural-related cases, supposedly unsolved, but none their suspects ever committed another crime, and the stories going around were about these three sisters,"
Sara explained as I noticed Willow had one of her famous smiles.
 
"The Charmed Ones," and now Willow had the floor, "Sorry, they are the big to-dos in the Wiccan community," Willow's comment garnered laughter as I started to feel a whole lot better.
 
"Hey Buffy, pick Warrick up with one hand," Of course, Greg wants to see feats of strength, so I motioned for Warrick to come over to appease Greg and surprise Warrick since he was giving me a doubtful look as I lifted him up smiling.
 
"Damn, she is definitely your daughter, Cat. She has your quiet strength thing down," he said giving me a one-armed hug after I put him down while Mom and Sara walked over with an older woman.
 
"Yes, she is," Mom said proudly giving me a hug, "Buffy, there is someone I want you to meet. This is grandmother, Lily."
 
"Hello Buffy, it's nice to finally meet you, and all my grandkids call me Nana," she said wrapping me up in a hug as I felt a couple tears roll down my face.
 
"Hello Nana," hugging her back finally feeling like I was truly home.
 
After everything settled down, Mom moved things out by the pool where the more detailed questions were asked, and not surprising, the fighting evil at fifteen wasn't taken well, especially by Mom. Giles came into a better light and didn't come off the creepy old man I'm sure some of them thought. It helped once I told them he was my mentor, friend,
trainer, Watcher and dad all rolled into one. Hank was a big loser too when I told of his exploits.
 
When it was time to pick up Lindsay, Willow and I got a parade of hugs until it was down to just us, and she led us over to the couch before straddling my hips, "We have the house to ourselves all to ourselves now," Willow purred leaning down and starting to kiss me as the doorbell rang.
 
I was snickering as she pulled back, "You just had to say something, didn't you?" carrying Willow to the door before putting her down and opening the front door, "Dawn?"
 
----------------------------------------------------------
 
While I drove to the school, I was processing everything that was said at the house, and the longer I thought about it, the prouder I got of Buffy. I mean there she is at fifteen years old battling vampires, demons, etc. and does it while keeping up the guise of a normal girl. I can totally understand her reluctance to tell us especially after hearing how Joyce reacted, but I can understand Joyce's reaction. I can't say I wouldn't have acted any different to finding out that my seventeen year old daughter had been hiding a whole other life from me.
 
"It's a lot to absorb," nodding at Sara's statement as she broke the silence.
 
"Yeah, it does put things into perspective, though, and Sam got off light. Buffy could have done some serious damage," Not to mention, I'm glad Gil was at PD when Brass brought Buffy in.
 
"Lindsay stays in the dark about her sister's true nature, right?" Sara's question brings up a good point.
 
"Definitely. Maybe when she is older, but for right now, Buffy is just her big sister, and we'll take Linds to the park, so her and Willow can have some one-on-one time," Sara kissed my knuckles as we climbed out of the car to wait.
 
As many times as I have seen Sara and Lindsay playing together in the park, it's light the first time, every time. It's like watching two kids playing, and it's even more fun to watch when Lindsay's friends are here. I'll have to tag along the next time Willow and Buffy bring Lindsay here. Something tells me Willow has her hands full.
 
I was going to pick up some food on the way home, but I wanted to see if the girls wanted something special for dinner, and I was glad I waited since there was a strange car in the driveway as I pulled in.
 
"Who's here Mommy?" Lindsay asked.
 
-----------------------------------------------------------
 
"I heard you were in the pokey, Buffy. What gives?" Thank you Giles, leave it to the Watcher to blow things out of proportion.
 
"I got arrested, Kennedy. That's all. Besides, Mom took care of it, and it's now a non-issue, and I came clean about who I am. Now get in here," wrapping Dawn up in a hug as she came in.
 
"Just so you know, the others are coming too. They'll be here either tonight or tomorrow," Dawn explained as I led them over to the couch.
 
"Good, I can kick Giles' ass for being such a drama queen. I get arrested, and he sends the whole crew in. We can hang out tonight, but tomorrow night, you guys are on your own. Lindsay drafted us into taking her trick or treating," At the time, I hadn't wanted to, but after today, I would love nothing more than a night of fun with Lindsay.
 
"You always were a sucker for little sisters, Buffy," reaching over to tickle Dawn, but she was right.
 
Dawn explained they were only staying for the weekend as I took them on a tour of the house, and even though I know Lindsay is going to do the introductions, I showed them both the pigs. Plus, I took care of the GigaPig, so Lindsay wouldn't have to do much since she would have new people to meet. As we came down the steps, I heard the front door close.
 
"Buffy, Willow, whose car is in the driveway?" Mom asked as the last of us came into the room.
 
I turned to Kennedy, "Get ready to brace Dawn," smiling as I faced Mom, "That would be Kennedy's, Mom. Giles apparently hit the panic button, so you'll get to meet the whole family in person sooner than expected," smiling wider as Lindsay came around Mom.
 
"Hi Buffy, Willow," then her eyes moved past Willow, "Dawn!" and she was off, and as instructed, Kennedy kept Dawn upright when Lindsay jumped into her arms, "You're my other big sister. Buffy talks about you all the time. She calls you her younger sister since you are taller."
 
"It's nice to finally meet you too, Lindsay. This is my girlfriend, Kennedy. We came up for the weekend because I didn't want to wait another month before seeing Buffy," Dawn thankfully pre-answered the question I'm sure Linds would have asked.
 
"Hi Kennedy, I saw pictures of all of you. Oh, you have to meet the pigs," Lindsay said excitedly turning to face Mom, "Can I show them?"
 
"Yeah sweetie, go ahead, and is pizza god for everybody?" Mom's question got a round of yeses as the trio headed upstairs.
 
"Buffy, do they have a place to stay?" Sara's question had an easy answer considering who it involves, so I played a hunch.
 
"With those two, I would say no. Do you know any places Sam doesn't own?" wryly asking.
 
"It's your sister and girlfriend, and as long as they don't mind sleeping bags, they can stay here, but the rest of the family will need to find their own rooms. Come on, I'll let you pick the toppings," Mom said putting her arm around me as we headed into the kitchen.
 
------------------------------------------------------------
 
AN: I don't own Charmed either :D

 

CHAPTER 18

 

Disclaimer in Chapter 1
Spoilers: Butterflied
------------------------------------------------------------
 
Dinner was a riot. Dawn told a couple Buffy stories that earned death glares, but Willow smoothed that over, and as much as Kennedy deals on Buffy, I can see the look of respect and idolatry in her eyes. Something tells me Buffy is the Yoda all these girls look up to when it comes to their calling, and I honestly don't think Buffy sees it. Well, I guess
we'll find out when Faith arrives and see if she has that same look. When I looked around the table, I realized that I had always wanted a big family, so Buffy finding me gave me back the daughter I thought I would never see while also giving me countless other daughters.
 
---
 
"Did Grissom give you any information except to show up at the scene?" Sara asked as we climbed into the SUV.
 
"Nothing. Just that we needed to get there as soon as possible, and that it was probably going to be at least a double," there was something else he wasn't saying, but I stopped trying to figure Gil out years ago.
 
As we parked the Denali, I leaned over for our last kiss until shift was over. It was our way of keeping our personal lives out of the lab. We climbed out and walked to the back and grabbed our kits. We both nodded at the officer who lifted the crime tape for us as we entered the scene while headed over to where Brass, Warrick and Grissom were standing. When he saw us coming, Gil's face matched his words from earlier.
 
"Warrick, you got the car," starting to give out assignments now that we were all here, "Sara, you take the perimeter," Thank you, Gil. Now I get to hear another 'Damn that Grissom' rant.
 
"What? You just did a one-hour walk-through. The perimeter cannot be a priority," That's my girl, but given Grissom's look, her bitching is futile.
 
"I need you to work the outside. Catherine and I will be inside," Warrick and I both shared a smirk at the look of death that Sara was giving Gil.
 
"I'll go talk to the friend," I was keeping my distance from Gil right now, so I didn't get into any trouble. I can do that on my own.
 
After talking to the friend, we already had a potential suspect, so I headed inside to meet up with Grissom. I peeked into all the rooms until I found him in the bathroom. It used to be a beautiful one, but now, it is the scene of a violent death. I noticed the blood splatter on the glass and speculated as to what may have happened. I followed it down until reaching Debbie Marlin's posed body, and when I saw her face, my hand went straight to my mouth as I had to fight the urge to throw up. It isn't her. It isn't her. It isn't Sara. I kept saying that in my head while taking deep breaths trying to get back in control.
 
When we finally made it back to the lab to start processing the evidence, I yanked Sara into my office and pressed her against my door while kissing her passionately before resting my head against her chest, "Sorry about that baby, I just needed to feel you," I don't think she has seen Debbie's body, and I wasn't about to admit to almost losing it. I just needed to push through it and finish the case.
 
I felt her kiss the top of my head while stroking her hands along my back, "I'm never going to complain about getting kisses. Is there something bothering you?" And for once, I was glad Gil paged us, so I wouldn't have to answer.
 
After being briefed, I decided to head home to freshen up and check on the girls, not to mention try and clear my head. Yes, I have seen Sara walking around, but it's still the fact that Debbie Marlin could be Sara's twin. All I have to do is work through, so we can clear this case.
 
When the first shift ended, I paged Sara to meet me at the car, so we could clean up and come back refreshed. I knew that she has seen the body, but she hasn't asked, and I haven't been forthcoming. Knowing Sara, she is probably trying to figure out what she can do to help me which is one of the reasons I love her so much. The drive home was quick and quiet, and I ran quickly upstairs after coming in, so the girls wouldn't see me like this.
 
---
 
Mom and Sara were still at work when Lindsay came in and woke us up. The first time this happened, Mom was nervous, but thanks to Willow pretty much raising herself, she handled things in stride, so today, Linds and I went over her spelling words while Willow cooked breakfast. I wasn't planning on bothering Dawn and Kennedy for two reasons. One, I'm not risking seeing any sisterly nudity, and two, Dawn told Mom a couple stories last night. Besides, Kennedy's nose will alert them before too long.
 
After going over the words she missed a couple more times, we settled in for some cartoon watching, and now that my life wasn't all about, I've come to understand Faith's need to watch them. They just let you enjoy yourself, especially when you have your little sister in your lap. Lindsay's laughter is so infectious that you can't help but laugh along with her.
 
We were enjoying an episode of the Power Puff Girls when I felt myself being stared at. I looked up to find Dawn smiling at me, so I patted the seat beside me. She came over, and I put my arm around her as we went back to watching TV. Shortly after that, I heard Kennedy snickering, but when Dawn pointed to the kitchen, I was beaming. Who knew my sister controlled the once spoiled Slayer.
 
"Breakfast is ready, girls," Will announced from the doorway as Lindsay climbed into Dawn's lap and wrapped her arms around Dawn's neck.
 
"Smells great, Willow, and it seems Air Dawn is the airline getting used this morning," smiling as I made sure Dawn was steady with a ten year old in her arms.
 
Linds may be used to Mom not always being home, but it still bothers me, "Sara will bring Mom home, Buffy," she said breaking me out of my freak out.
 
"Thanks, Linds," giving her a big smile as I started eating like the rest of the table while also sending a plea to the PtB to bring them home safe.
 
The breakfast conversation consisted of Lindsay explaining to Will and me about the game plan for trick or treating tonight. Dawn and Kennedy were in their own conversation while Willow and I listened to Lindsay tell us best places to hit and the ones to avoid. I guess there are toothbrush people everywhere. Although, it would help you rotate your toothbrush. I say that now, but back then I was cursing the people who gave them to me.
 
I volunteered Kennedy and I for the dishes while Dawn and Willow took Lindsay to school. I got my hug and kiss before she headed out the door, and Dawn also narrowed her eyes at me as Will had to drag her out. You threaten a girl once, and all of a sudden people think the worst, so I gave her a polite smile as the door closed. I stayed for two reasons. One was the rest of the Scoobies possibly showing, and the other being Mom and Sara.
 
"Dawn knows what you are feeling, Buffy. I'm sure Joyce did too when you went out on patrol," I wrapped my arms around my stomach as I thought about what Kennedy just said, but before the sadness took over, I felt a warmth in my heart as I turned towards my fellow Slayer.
 
"When the hell did you get so smart?" putting my arm around her.
 
"I've always been rather smart, like you, but I used the training as an excuse to play the smartass. Dawn broke me of that habit real quick, like I'm sure Willow did to you," she retorted bumping my hip as we got started getting cleaned up.
 
Once the last dish was toweled off, I snapped Kennedy in the ass with it, "Go get your suit on, it's exercise time," I might as well have somebody to train with while we await the houseguests.
 
I had to admit I was surprised to see that Kennedy's bikini had two pieces. Although, I'm sure it was just bottoms until Dawn nipped that in the bud. After the first couple reps, Kennedy brought up that we could change styles with every set. Of course, she had to teach me a couple, but that was okay, and it felt like I was in the Olympics as I swam.
 
We were both brought out of our workouts by a couple of big splashes, so Kennedy and I headed over to our respective girlfriends after they resurfaced. I wrapped my arms around Willow's neck and started to kiss her deeply, and it might have been a long one except for the shutting of the front door. I looked just in time to Mom run upstairs, and Sara following behind her.
 
I was out of the pool like a shot and dried off thoroughly but quickly as I ran inside and stopped Sara before she headed upstairs, "Is Mom okay?" This was new for me seeing Mom spooked.
 
"I don't know. The case we are working on involves the violent death of a nurse that bears a striking resemblance to me, and I think that it is bothering her more than she is letting on," While I listened to Sara explain, I flashbacked to when Vamp Willow showed up, and how hard it hit me.
 
I lifted up and kissed Sara's cheek, "Use our bathroom if you are going to shower, I think I can help Mom," I hope.
 
I took the stairs three at a time and had the towel wrapped around me, and when I came through the door, I saw the face that I have used plenty of times, "Buffy?"
 
I pulled the chair to the bed and took Mom's hands in mine as I went through in my head what I was going to say to her, "Sara told me about your case, and I've been there. Without going too in depth, there was an incident my senior year that almost broke me. Needless to say, we had all been taking Willow for granted, and she had had enough, so she stormed off. Xander and I didn't see her until later that night, but it wasn't her. It was her as a vampire," I held up my hand to stop Mom, "We headed to the library to tell Giles where afterwards, Willow came in, and Xander attacked her with a cross. Once we figured out that there were two Willows, we took care of it. What I'm trying to say is that you still have Sara, but someone did kill that woman, and you need to find out who, so her family and friends can grieve," I kept watching her while I told my story and knew that she was going to be okay.
 
"Thank you, Buffy. My heart knew all that, but my head was having a hard time processing it," she stood us up and gave me a hug before pulling back, "Two Willows?"
 
I threw my head back laughing, "I'll explain later, when we've been drinking," that got her laughing as Sara joined us in the bedroom.

 

CHAPTER 19

 

Disclaimers in chapter 1 – AN: spoilers for Suckers (some actual dialogue)

 

 

   I hated leaving the girls since they looked like they were having a good time. I wanted to be, too, but we had to clear this case - and probably another before even thinking about going home. Sara and I headed back toward the lab, but  Gil paged us and had us go over to PD. They must have gotten a suspect while we were cleaning up. Good, the faster we got it over with, the faster I can put it behind me.

 

   When we got there, Grissom and Brass were talking to an older gentleman in one of the interrogation rooms, so Sara and I decided to observe. We found out quickly that his name was Vincent Lurie and that we didn’t have a lot of evidence against him. It was a murder case, though, so we could just continue to build our case until we did. We were about to head out when Gil started talking to the guy about missing out and then getting a second chance, and that he couldn’t do it. I squeezed Sara’s hand knowing that he meant her. Lucky for us, where he didn’t - I did, and it was the best decision of my life.

 

   We left and went back to the lab, waiting for Grissom to finish the interview. The guys and I were sitting at the break room table sipping our coffees when he finally walked in, and he had slips in his hands. “These are the last two cases. Once these are cleared, we’re all off for a couple days, supposedly. I’m going to take Nick and Sara with me, and Catherine, you have a 419 in a vacant house with Warrick.”

 

   I let Warrick drive to the scene since I was still a little distracted. When we pulled up, we found a female officer waiting for us. She filled us in on the place’s checkered past (two suicides a few years back and now this). She commented that the house might be cursed, and she felt strongly about that since she lifted up the crime scene tape for us while staying outside. We headed inside and found David in one of the bedrooms, kneeling next to the body.

 

   “Uh… oh, hey, David.” I didn’t want to scare him since he didn’t seem to notice us come in.

 

   “Yeah!” I was too late, since he jumped at the sound of my voice. “Oh, hey. Uh, jugular’s been punctured.” I shared a look with Warrick before leaning in for a closer look. “Two marks.” David pointed to them. “Possibly, bite marks.”

 

   Buffy told us about vampires - and that Vegas isn’t a big hangout for them. “Bite marks?” I asked as I knelt down for an even closer look.

 

   “Punctures are thirty-two millimeters apart. That’s the average distance between the eyeteeth in an adult’s male’s mouth.” Now, I was glad that David didn’t know the actual truth.

 

   “Right, but those punctures are consistent with human teeth.” Okay, I know I’m just following David into this, but I’m going to have Buffy and Willow make sure this isn’t and actual vampire attack.

 

   “Yeah, well, what about fangs?” Poor David. First the raccoon and now this.

 

   “Fangs? Come on,” Warrick added, trying to interject some clarity until David opened the woman’s mouth to show off her pierced tongue and… fangs. Oh boy.

 

   “Wounds are deep. She bled out.” I hated to say it, but it was starting to sound like how Buffy described it when she came clean about what she is.

 

   “Then where’s all the blood?” Warrick’s question definitely wasn’t a bad one.

 

   “Lividity tells me she wasn’t postmortem, so I don’t know.” I’m sure David had a few theories but was going to keep them to himself since Warrick and I haven’t been very giving with the vampire support.

 

   “I’m going to look around.” I gave Warrick a nod; maybe he’ll find some evidence (or blood) someplace else.

 

   “David, I don’t know a whole lot about vampires, but if she were bitten, there’s spit. And if there’s spit, there’s DNA so swab the neck,” Okay, I know more about them than most people, but not everybody has a daughter who kills them.

 

   “Catherine, take a look at this,” I heard Warrick say from the hallway. I found him outside another room before heading inside with him. “Please tell me that’s not blood.”

 

   I went over and took a swab before testing it for blood. “Negative. It’s probably just house paint.”

 

   “Well, we know one thing for sure. This place wasn’t vacant.” No, it wasn’t, and I was going to make sure we were going to have an actual suspect – or suspects - to charge.

 

   “Warrick, I don’t want to play into David’s hunches, but would you have a problem if I had Buffy and Willow come to the lab and make sure this isn’t what it looks like?” My question got his famous smile to start.

 

   “Well, they haven’t had the full tour of the place. I’m sure Doc Robbins won’t mind seeing them again.” Warrick is a genius.

 

   My first call was to Gil, giving the particulars on the case and my idea to make sure David’s suspicions were wrong. He gave me the green light and I called Al next, followed by Judy to have their visitors’ passes ready.

 

   Warrick and I made our way through the rest of the house to make sure we missed nothing else. Once we were packed up, I called the house, and whoever answered was somebody new. “Can I talk to Buffy, please?” I guessed the Cleveland crew had arrived.

 

***

 

   Shortly after Mom and Sara left, Will and Dawn came back from dropping off Lindsey, so I had us split up for showers. And after the various threats of badness if they sexed up our shower, we all got cleaned up. I guess I should have warned Willow, too. Her hands were a little more roam-y when she was cleaning me up. I was honestly shocked when we came downstairs to find the other two already done.

 

   “Buffy, since you and Willow are taking Lindsey trick or treating, what do you think about Kennedy and I staying here to pass out candy while letting Mom and Sara go out for a private dinner?” I tilted my head and stared intently at my sister and her girlfriend.

 

   I didn’t see any hints of them being up to something, so I smiled. “That’s a good idea, Dawn, and I’m sure they will love it, too. I’ll even let you ask them.”

 

   “Thanks, Buffy. And since we all have evening plans, Kenn and I are going to do some shopping,” my sister said before she and Kennedy headed out the door leaving Willow and I by ourselves.

 

   Willow had an idea on how to spend our time. Her hands cupped my breasts from behind and she whispered, “One empty house means we can do whatever we want.” I could only moan as Willow rolled my nipples with her fingers.

 

   “B-bedroom.” I was not getting busted my mom – again.

 

   Willow yanked me into our bedroom and slammed me into the back of the door, kissing me hungrily. We’ve had a few makeout sessions here and there, but this one was more physical. Not to be left out, I made quick work of the button on Will’s jeans while she mauled my breasts. I found out quickly that I may not have much there, but they were very responsive. Will pulled back, smiling and panting, as I lifted up my arms to help her take off my shirt. Just as she was about to clamp her mouth over one of my breasts, there was a knock at the front door.

 

   “Somebody is going to die,” I said, growling as Willow handed me my shirt so I could put it back on. I stomped down the hall and whipped open the door to find a smiling Faith.

 

   “What’s the deal, B? You’re supposed to be in the big house.” I watched her eyes drop to my very hard nipples. “And I see we’ve interrupted.” I really hated those dimples.

 

   “Family misunderstanding. My grandfather is an ass, but Mom and Grandma took care of it for me. Where is our British drama queen?” I smirked as I opened the door further to let my friends in, knowing he was out there.

 

   “Buffy, Mr. Giles was just looking out for you, so be nice,” Tara chimed in as she followed in behind Faith.

 

   I gave Tara a polite smile. “Tara, I can’t be completely nice to him. He wouldn’t know how to handle that.” I gave her a hug as Giles shut the door. “Mom says if you’re all staying, you have to get rooms.”

 

   “We already took care of that, Buffy. That’s why we were delayed. We may be just visiting, but I wasn’t going to impose on your mother,” Giles said as I walked over and gave him a hug. I may pick on him, but that’s what you do with family. “How are you, Buffy?”

 

 

   “I’m good, Giles. I think I’m starting to get the whole hang of this normal girl gig.” Giles hugged me back as the phone rang. “Anya, can you get that since you are closer?” I looked back to make sure she was actually going to get it.

 

   “Silly girl, you will never be normal,” he said kissing my forehead as I overheard Anya tell whomever ‘just a second’.

 

   I turned around to find her holding the phone out towards me. I didn’t ask who it was since all of my friends were here.  I figured it was Mom or Sara, and when I said hello, I found out it was. She wanted Willow and me to come to the lab and help with the case under the guise of taking a tour. When she told me why, I shouldn’t have been surprised since there have been vampire wannabes for centuries, as Anya tells it. We said our goodbyes as I hung up the phone.

 

   “Is something wrong, Buffster? Do we need to assemble the Scoobies?” I had to laugh at Xander’s questions.

 

   “Yes and no. Will and I are heading to the lab to put Mom’s worries to rest. Apparently, there are vampire wannabes in Vegas, and she wants me to make sure.” I was about to grab my shoes, but I stopped and turned around. “Faith, I have a ten year old sister, so you are to be on your best behavior.” I solidified my statement by pointing at my dimpled friend.

 

   “You have my word, Buffy,” Tara said with a wink, so I knew things were going to be okay.

 

***

 

      I had Warrick stay with the evidence while I waited for the girls. I figured he and Nick could compare cases while they both waited. I decided to hang out in the break room, drinking a cup of coffee. I found Grissom’s mostly done crossword and looked it over before taking a look at the rest of the paper. I was making my way through the comics when I realized I was being watched, so I looked up to see Sara smiling at me.

 

   “There is no way you can beat the weirdness of my case.” Normally, Sara would possibly be right by making that statement, but not today.

 

   “Unless you have possible vampires, I can.” I don’t know if I’ve ever seen Sara speechless. “I don’t believe it is, but Buffy and Willow are coming in to make sure. When I told Buffy about the case, she didn’t seem shocked.  I’m guessing this stuff is more than typical.”

 

   “Not really. There was club in Sunnydale my sophomore year, and I’m told it’s quite prevalent.” Buffy said startling Sara and I. “So where does this tour start?” she asked, bouncing on the balls of her feet.

 

   “We’ll start in the morgue.” Might as well get the official part done first. “Then I’ll show you around. Oh, I almost forgot. Who answered the phone earlier?”

 

   “Anya. The rest of the gang is here, and they have rooms. You only have the four you started with,” Buffy explained with a smile. Looks like there will be a family dinner sometime soon.

 

   I pointed out the different labs on the way to the elevator. I could introduce them to the techies later. Well, I might have them avoid Hodges since he is weird, and I wouldn’t want to expose them to anymore than they already have. I glanced back as we got closer, and the fact that neither one seemed put off by the morgue distressed me a little. I pushed open the metal doors and was glad that Al wasn’t playing the air guitar on his crutch.

 

   “Good afternoon, ladies,” he said in his always pleasant voice. “David said you found evidence of vampires in North Las Vegas.”

 

   “Not if she’s involved there isn’t,” Buffy said, walking over to the body. Something seemed to surprise even her, though. “Okay, this is a new kind of weird. I’ve met people who wanted to have a vampire turn them so they can become one, but the teeth and actual biting?” I had to laugh at how Buffy reacted. It was Lindsey’s yuck-face down to a tee.

 

   “Well, that is gratifying in one sense, but that means we have an actual murderer on our hands. Thanks, Al.” I gave him a wave as I escorted the girls out before starting to show them around.      

 

   Even though I had a pressing case, I didn’t skimp on the tour because I knew Warrick was capable of handling things until I got back. He could catch me up. I tried to avoid Hodges, but he surprised us. Although, Willow scared him (and me a little, too) when she told him that they had an appointment to pick up Buffy’s new paddle. Thank God she told me later that she was only joking. I walked them out and gave them both a hug before heading back inside to try and put my case to bed.

 

***

 

   Since it was close to lunch time and we had a houseful of people, Willow and I hit the pizza place and made their day. After forty-five more minutes and thirty pies later, we drove home. I was suddenly glad that I got a few extras since Dawn and Kennedy were back. Before we got out of the car, Dawn ran out and stuck her head in Willow’s window.

 

   “Faith and Tara are eloping in one of the chapels. I tried scrying to get a better guess where, but I only know around the area since there were four or five in the same place. I hope Tara is at least telling her that she isn’t getting married by Elvis or at the alien chapel.” Dawn’s announcement sent my head spinning, but I recruited her to help with the pizzas.

 

   After we dropped off the food, I grabbed Kennedy, too, so we could have two Slayers help with the Faith tracking. Plus, I still wanted there to be pizza when we got back. We climbed into the car as I turned to Dawn.

 

   “So where should we start?” I knew my way around Vegas a little, but not all that well.

 

   “Head for Las Vegas Boulevard, that’s where a lot of the chapels are. Once we get close enough, I can pinpoint her better,” Dawn said as Willow backed out of the driveway.

 

   I wasn’t sure at first about Dawn learning magic, but Tara told me she was a natural. She figured it was because of her mystical background. Once I got the Tara stamp of approval, I was a little less nervous about it. As we got closer, I thought about my wedding. I knew Willow and I weren’t that close to getting married, but we weren’t that far away either. I would have to figure out how to surprise her. My internal thoughts had me distracted, so when Dawn yelled, I jumped.

 

   “There! At Vegas Wedding Chapel on South Third Street,” Dawn announced as I punched in the new direction in the GPS.

 

   After finding a parking spot, we climbed out of the car and headed for the entrance. We all knew the element of surprise wasn’t there since Faith would be able to feel Kennedy and me nearby. Willow opened the door, and as we filed in, I noticed that Faith and Tara were already doing their vows. I grabbed Willow’s hand and ran up the aisle until we were standing behind our friends. When the preacher asked for objections, Faith peered back but only found me smiling before the preacher pronounced them married.

 

   “Faith, you do know this means you are getting an obnoxious reception now, and I think I’ll let Xander do the toast to the happy couple.” My threat earned me a punch from her.

 

   “As long as there is a big ass cake, I don’t care if you let Brat do it,” Faith said, smiling as she scooped Tara up.

 

   I made Dawn and Kennedy ride with the newly married couple so they would end up back at the house. Plus, I wanted to get some things ready for a fast party - the first thing being Faith’s big ass cake. The presents could just get sent to Cleveland and be waiting for them after they got back from their honeymoon. I called Giles to have the house set up while Will and I grabbed some party necessities. I didn’t worry about food since we had the pizza, but we did stop and get some Chinese along with loads of burgers. Faith was going to love it. After getting the last of the supplies, we drove home. I was happy not to see Tara’s car so we could get the place set up.

 

   We were pretty much finished as Dawn and Kennedy escorted the newly married couple out into the patio. I presented the cake with a smile. “This big ass enough for you, Faith?”

 

   “As long as it is chocolate, yes, it is, B,” Faith said smiling as I nodded. Like I was stupid enough to get any other flavor.

 

   We were all dancing and enjoying ourselves with the music was cranked. Well, Giles wasn’t dancing, but then again, he didn’t have a honey. He did have his single malt scotch, so I didn’t worry about him. Too bad he wasn’t sticking around, though; I think Jacqui could teach him a thing or two. Faith put in one of her favorite CDs, and I was pretty much using Willow as a humping pole. At least…I was until the music got abruptly shut off. There was a loud ‘Hey!’ as we turned toward the quiet stereo.

 

   “Care to explain, Buffy?” Mom asked as Sara stood behind her, smirking.

 

   “Faith and Tara tried to get married without getting caught. When Willow, Dawn, Kennedy and I busted them, we got a quick reception put together.” I pointed out the marrieds before working through the others. “That is Giles, Xander, and his wife, Anya.”

 

   Sara took the cord from Mom and plugged it back in before going over and sitting near Giles. Faith resumed dancing, and the rest of us followed. I knew the day wasn’t even close to being over since Willow and I were taking Lindsey out trick or treating later. Plus, Mom and Sara could meet the rest of the family while we were gone. I didn’t know what the rest of my life held, but seeing my family together, I knew I was going to be okay.

 

 

To be continued…

 

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