When Faith awoke again she found Buffy laying in her arms, clinging to her. *Ugh!* Faith peeled the little blonde off, gently laying her back on the bed. She rolled on her side and studied the other girl. *Damn, B's hot... wicked hot!*

Faith lightly kissed cave-Buffy on the lips, causing the little slayer to grouse and reach for her. "No. I have to get up." Faith whispered scooting further over, but staying for a moment just to look at the beautiful blonde.

*Huh?... We had sex... Yeah, we did... Unbelievable!... I fucked Buffy Summers!... Not only that... but then miss goody-two-shoes went down on me for hours!... Shit, she made me cum so many times I couldn't even move!... Oh yeah, I got off big time... mmmm... her sweet little mouth... jeez... glad to know it's good for somethin' besides naggin'... Ha!... Yepper... No wonder they're all whipped over her... and she's kinda cute... kinda... Okay. She's a total fox!... So what!... She's still a self-righteous priss who thinks she's better...and* Buffy grumbled and rolled on top off Faith. *Ugh!.. what a leech... a leechy pest*

Buffy sniffed and nuzzled Faith. *Fuck! B, cut it out... dammit... always fuckin' with my head... Yeah, you're adorable right now, but what happens when this shit wears off?!... Huh?!... See, I jus' gotta remember that... No matter how cute you are right now... you'll turn back into that holier-than-thou bitch soon enough and I'm an idiot if I think anything different... Faith, the dumbass!* Faith suddenly pushed Buffy off and got up.

*I need a shower... and coffee... yeah, some coffee and then a shower... that's what I need!* She found her t-shirt on the floor and pulled it back on. *B, ya animal, ya tore my shirt... I should smack your ass... you runt...* Faith looked back at the sleeping slayer as she placed her hand on Buffy's bare butt.

*I could jus' slap her ass, right now!* Faith smirked as she very gently stroked the naked blonde's bottom. *Mmmm... Oh fuck me! She's sooo...* Faith removed her hand as if burned. *What the hell is wrong with me! Shit!*

Buffy mumbled and rolled on her back, giving Faith an unrestricted view of her charms.

*WHOA!!!* Faith turned to leave the room so quickly, she nearly walked through the door. *Duh! Gotta open it first.!* When Faith pulled the door open she could hear the phone ringing. *Aw shit!* The brunette raced into the kitchen and grabbed it. "Hey?"

"Uh.. Faith?"

"Yep."

"It's Willow. Um... I have class this morning so.. I thought I'd stop by and check on Buffy."

"Yeah, okay. When ya gonna be here, `cause sleepin' beauty ain't up yet?"

"In about fifteen minutes?"

"Make it a half hour and I can have her dressed and fed so if ya wanna take her with ya or somethin'."

"No. I mean, I can't exactly take her to class or anything."

Faith chuckled, "Guess not, huh?... Okay, see ya whenever then. The only thing we've gotta do is go to the store, but we ain't doin' that anytime soon so we'll be here. Bye."

"Yeah, okay then." Willow hung up and sat there for few minutes puzzling over Faith's attitude.

........

"FAITH!" Buffy screamed in panic from the bedroom.

*Fuck!* Faith ran into the bedroom. "B! What's wrong?!"

Cave-Buffy cried and held out her arms. "Gone. Faith gone."

"No. I'm right here." Faith sighed in annoyance, but sat on the bed and pulled the little blonde into her arms. "Shhhh. C'mon cut it out now. Willow is comin' over and I don't want you cryin' and gettin' her to think I'm hurtin' ya or somethin', got it?"

Buffy clung tightly to Faith, sobbing. "Faith gone. Faaaittthhh!" She wailed burying her face against Faith's neck. "No go. Faith no go."

"Jezuz christ, B! When did ya become so frickin' needy?! Now get up, I have to give ya breakfast." Faith tried to stand up, but Buffy wouldn't let go. "B, did ya hear me?!"

"NO!" Cave-Buffy screeched as Faith pried her little hands off.

"B, I have to put clothes on ya." Faith sat back down with Buffy. "Now listen. Do ya wanna stay here with me?"

"Yes. With Faith. Buffy stay with Faith." The little caveslayer nodded emphactically.

"Okay then. Ya have to get dressed. If you're sittin' here like this... all naked and crazy acting, then they'll take you out of here and then it's bye, bye Faith. Got it? I need ya to help me out and do what I say. Do you understand?"

Buffy immediately let go and stood up. "Yes. Buffy stay. Buffy stay."

"That a girl. Here, let's jus' put your pj's back on for now. I need to give ya another bath, but that can wait till after miss nosy leaves. She jus' wants to make sure I didn't wring your neck." The younger slayer held the pajama bottoms as Buffy dutifully stepped in them.

Faith then picked up the top and examined it. "How'd you get this off last night? You didn't even unbutton it. Huh?" The brunette shrugged as she put the pajama top back onto Buffy's warm little body. "There you go. Now where's my kiss?" She teased the blonde and was suprised when the caveslayer hugged her tight and laid a big kiss on her lips. *Geez B!*

Faith put on a pair of jeans then dragged Buffy to the kitchen and sat her down. "It's Captain Crunch for you." She shoved the bowl in front of Buffy and turned around to pour herself some coffee.

Faith glanced back to see Buffy reaching in the bowl with her hands.

"Hey! Use your spoon! B! Damn it!"

*What Buffy do? Why Faith mad?* Buffy froze as her eyes filled with tears.

"Dang it, you're such a crybaby!" Faith shook her head.

Buffy picked up the bowl and flung it across the room. "Not hungry!"

"Buffy! Fuck!" Faith was poised to slap her when she heard the knocking. "Crap! Red's here. Now you be good. Do you hear me?!"

Buffy crossed her arms defiantly. Faith leaned close and whispered. "You be good or they'll take you away. Then it's bye, bye Faith. Got it?!"

Buffy's eyes started to water again. "NO! NO! Buffy stay with Faith!"

"Then behave yourself, B. I'm serious." Faith made her way to the door; she paused waiting for Buffy to settle down then opened it. "Hey Red, I was jus' givin' the princess over there some breakfast. Want some coffee or somethin'?"

"Uh... yeah, that'd be great. Thanks." Willow turned to see a pouting Buffy sitting at the table. "Hi Buffy." She expected the little caveslayer to run to her in terror. The guilt at leaving Buffy had been eating at her most the night, but the blonde only looked over and smiled.

"Willow! Willow!" The caveslayer shrieked energetically, smacking the table. She made no move to get up. Cave-Buffy then proudly announced. "Buffy eat. Eat! Eat!"

"Hang on B. I'm gettin' ya some more, right now."

Willow noticed the bowl of cereal on the floor and the milk on the wall. "What happened?"

"Yeah, that. Hey B, why don't you tell her? Hmm? Didn't think so." Faith set a cup of coffee in front of Willow; she shoved the milk toward her. "Do you want some sugar too?"

"Yeah, thanks." Willow nervously took the offering, watching Faith with suprise. The brunette sat down next to Buffy with a new bowl of cereal and started to feed her.

"C'mon B. Open up."

Buffy obediantly opened her mouth, letting Faith put a spoonful of cereal in. She munched happily on the sugary breakfast food.

"Ha! Look at that. You totally like it. Now ain't ya sorry you wasted a whole bowl of this on the wall." Faith smirked at the little caveslayer's excitement. She continued with her task carefully feeding Buffy until she glimpsed Willow staring and became self-conscious. Faith cleared her throat and explained, "She doesn't know how to use a spoon."

"Oh... uh... okay." Willow shrugged, acting preoccupied with her coffee.

"So what's up, Red? You guys figure out a cure or whatever?" Faith asked turning toward the dumbfounded red head.

"What?... Um... No. Nothing yet. I have to go to class but Giles and Xander will be working on the research all day. We're meeting tonight. Maybe you can bring Buffy over to the Magic Shop then... if you don't mind."

"No, no biggy. It's not like there's anything else I can do, right? I can't exactly take B patrolling or anything." Faith continued to feed Buffy who busily examined the cartoons on the cereal box. "What? What is it, B?" The little caveslayer pointed to a picture on the box. "Oh, you want the toy... Hang on." Faith took the box from her and fished around in it. "Okay. Here ya go." She handed Buffy the plastic toy. "Hey, it's an action figure. Lemme see it. Oh, well looky here. It's wonder woman. Ha! There ya go, B. That's perfect for ya. Pretty cool there. See." Faith put the figure in a pose.

Cave-Buffy bounced enthusiastically and snatched the toy up. She smiled, well-pleased with her new possession as she examined it carefully.

Willow witnessed the scene in awe. She watched as Faith gently nudged another spoonful between Buffy's lips. *This borders on sweet. Faith is being nice to Buffy?! Huh?! She's feeding her and giving her toys. Weird... too weird... almost creepy weird.* "Well, I guess I better get to class. We'll see you guys later then."

"Huh?... oh yeah.. yeah, Red... no problem... later." Faith nodded in her direction.

"Bye Buffy." Willow walked over and gave the little slayer a hug. *Her hair's been brushed out... Faith brushed the tangles out?...huh?*

"Willow go bye. Bye Willow." Buffy returned the hug, releasing her quickly and opening her mouth for another spoonful of cereal. "Buffy eat now. Bye. Bye. Willow go."

"Yeah. Okay, Buffy." Willow furrowed her brow in confusion. Faith got up to let Willow out.

"Later Red."

After the door closed, Willow stood there for a moment. *What was that?!* She leaned against the door and heard Buffy giggling.

"Wonder woman? Wonder! Wonder! Hehehe!"

"That's right B. It's a wonder woman doll. See... Okay B, `nough screwin' around. Open up. Gotta finish this cereal and take a bath. We have to go to the store still, ya know?"

"Store? Store! Store!"

"Yep. The Store. Frickin' sucks! I say." Faith laughed with the giggling caveslayer.

Willow felt herself smiling as she straightened up and headed out of the building to go to class.

*****
Part 10: Just A Quickie

Faith finished feeding Buffy then sat her down on the couch. "Here B. Watch TV. I'm gonna go take shower."

"No." Buffy wrapped her arms around Faith's neck.

"B, look." The brunette flipped on the TV. Buffy slowly let go of Faith and turned toward the television screen.

"Tiny people!" The blonde slayer shouted gleefully slapping the set.

"Yeah. See. That's right B. Tiny people. Now you jus' stay here and watch TV. I'll be in the bathroom taking a shower, okay? So there's no need to freak. I'm right in there; got it? I'll leave the door unlocked... if something's wrong you jus' come and get me." Faith returned Buffy's hug. "That's fine. Good girl. Now let go, B."

Cave-Buffy smiled and nodded, letting Faith go and turning toward the TV. "Hehehe! Lots of colors! Tiny people. Good!"

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

Buffy sat staring at screen. "Tiny people singing. Funny! Hehehe! Faith, look. Look! Look!" The little slayer turned around and noticed Faith wasn't sitting with her. "Faith? Where Faith go? Faith?" Buffy got up to search. "Faith?" She stood at the bathroom door and pushed it open slowly. "Faith?" Buffy's breath came out in a whisper as watched Faith in the shower. "Oh." *Faith pretty... Buffy like Faith. Faith soft...and smells nice. Buffy want to touch Faith. Mmmm... Faith... touch Faith... pretty Faith...*

The brunette closed her eyes and stepped under the water to rinse her hair. *HUH?!* She jumped when felt a hand touching her. "What the fuck! B, you can't do that... jus' frickin' sneak up on people like that. Ya practically gave me a heart attack! Whatcha doin'?!" Faith wiped the soap out of her eyes and looked down at Buffy.

The blonde stood staring, mesmorized as she caressed Faith. "Faith. Faith good. Buffy like Faith. Ahhh... Faaaittthhh. Buffy stay with Faith." She ran her hand over Faith's breast. "Soft... soft..."

"Uh... yeah. Thanks. My boobs are soft. Now go watch TV. I'm tryin' to take a shower, ya know... get out." Faith brushed the little slayer's hands away.

"NO! NO! Buffy touch! Want to touch Faith. Faith soft. Soft!" Cave-Buffy screamed in frustration.

Faith squinted under the water then turned to ask with annoyance. "If I let you cop a feel, will ya get outta here so I can shower?" The little blonde nodded. "Okay. Fine. Go ahead and hurry up." Faith turned back toward the smaller slayer offering her chest.

Buffy slowly reached out, speaking with almost reverance as she touched, "Soft. Soft. Faith... ohhh... soft Faith..." Buffy's fingertips lightly traced over Faith's nipples causing them to stiffened. The brunette's breath hitched slightly.

"Oh...um, geez...uh.." Faith shook it off. "Okay, B. Now get out. Ya got your jollies. Look I'll give you your bath in awhile... Now get lost! B? Hey!" Faith backed up as Buffy lowered her head. The little blonde captured a nipple in her mouth.

"Mmmm... Faith soft." Buffy wrapped her arms around Faith and delicately sucked. Her eyes slid closed and she relaxed as the water ran down her face and soaked her pajamas. *Ahhhh...Faith*

*Oh fuck! Uh.. ahhh... oh, that feels good... oh B!* Faith felt her knees buckling as she tangled her hands in Buffy's hair. "Um...B?... I... oh jeez... `kay... let's go in the bedroom... yeah... let's... Oh fuck, I want you!" Faith pulled Buffy up and crushed her lips against blonde's.

Cave-Buffy grinned and stepped into the shower with Faith.

"Not again." Faith shook her head. "B, take off your pajamas at least."

Buffy tugged at her wet top panicked; she whimpered. "Stuck! Faith! Stuck!"

"Come here, B. Lift your arms." The brunette helped her out of her pajamas. "I guess this can work out." Faith gently kissed Buffy and spoke smiling. "Okay B. This saves me the time. I don't have to give you a bath seperatedly."

The kiss deepened. Faith broke free, trying to get a breath. Panting, she peered down at the happy blonde in her arms. "Fuck, you're hot. Ya know that, B? Hmmm? Yeah, you do. Don't ya, ya runt... you're hot!... an' you know it... `cause you're way hot!"

"Hot!" Buffy smiled, crinkling her nose in confusion. "Hot?... Buffy hot? Hot?" The little slayer tilted her head uncertain. "Hot? No. Buffy not hot." She touched her skin.

"Never mind. Come here babe, let's wash your hair." Faith pulled the older girl closer.

"Wash. Wash!" Buffy nodded happily and handed Faith the shampoo bottle. The little caveslayer obediantly stood still while being washed, before squeaking. "Buffy wash Faith."

"Alright then. You wash me." Faith gave Buffy a smoky look as she handed the little slayer a washcloth. "Show me what ya got." She straightened up and waited as Buffy's fingers moved lightly over her wet skin.

"Soft." Cave-Buffy giggled initially. "Soft... funny Faith... mmm... Buffy like Faith." The little blonde quieted and became serious, stroking Faith with great interest.

Faith smiled and reached for Buffy. "Come here." She grabbed the shorter girl, pulling their wet bodies together. "You slippery little nut. Gimme a kiss."

Cave-Buffy eagerly tipped her face up. "Kiss! Buffy want kiss. Kiss Buffy."

Faith laughed. "You betcha." She pulled the wet blonde against her and kissed her deeply. "How's that?... You like it... hmm? Ya want more?" She teased the little caveslayer.

Buffy grunted, pulling at Faith. "More! More! Buffy wants more."

"Let's go into the bedroom." Faith whispered to the wild little blonde. "For a quickie... that's all. Got it?" She waited until Buffy nodded in agreement.

"Oh. Yes! Yes! Faith. Touch! Quick. Quickie!" Buffy squealed suddenly insistent. "Touch. Want to touch. Now. Touch! Touch!"

"That's what we're gonna do, B. Touch... lots of touch." Faith bit Buffy's lower lip. "C'mon." She breathed out the last words. "Just a quickie."

*****
Part 11: The Supermarket

"B, now you stay with me. Don't wonder off, okay?" Faith released Buffy's hand as they got to the supermarket doors.

"Stay. Buffy stay with Faith." Cave-Buffy repeated standing and staring, enthralled by the automatic doors at the entrance.

"Yeah. Jus' remember that." Faith pulled the little blonde behind her into the store. Buffy's eyes widened.

"Look! Look Faith!" She tugged on the brunette, pointing to the cereal display.

"Yep. It looks like that shit ya ate this mornin' is on sale. Go grab a box, B and come right back."

"Buffy get box." She ran off to the display, while Faith got a cart.

"Young lady, would you like to try an Owens breakfast sausage?" the woman unwittedly held out a sample tray.

Cave-Buffy sniffed. "Mmmm... good."

"Yes. It has quite a lovely aroma." The woman continued her sales pitch as Buffy grabbed one and gobbled it down.

"Oh good! Good!" The little caveslayer grunted as she cleared the tray.

"Hey! Miss! Excuse me!"

"Uh... yeah, you're excused." Faith quickly grabbed Buffy's hand and pulled her away from the small group now gathering and watching with suprise. "She hasn't had anything to eat today. You know how it is." Faith said, shrugging at the offended woman.

"Good! More! Buffy want more!" Buffy pointed at the sausage lady.

"No." Faith laughed and dragged the smaller girl behind her. "Geez B, that was funny though. Did ya see that lady's face? You're such a little piggy."

Buffy snorted and smiled up at Faith, "Piggy! Buffy's a piggy." She giggled, excitedly. "Piggy! Hehehe! Piggieeee!"

"Yeah. But you're my piggy, right?" Faith couldn't help herself as she pulled Buffy into hug. She glimpsed other shoppers staring and quickly released her, clearing her throat uncomfortably. "Okay B, now pay attention. I wanna hurry this up." Faith nudged the shorter girl along.

"Hurry! Hurry!" Buffy stumbled as she tried to cling to Faith. A couple of pre-adolescent girls watched, snickering.

Faith glared at them, mumbling under her breath. "Yeah... hate these places... they're filled with lousy kids." She ruffled Buffy's hair teasingly. "Ya know, runts like you."

"Runt?" The little blonde frowned; she wasn't certain she liked that word. She tried to tug Faith back toward the pyramid of cereal, but Faith effectively ignored the effort.

"Oh... noooo.... Cereeeeaaaallll..." Buffy cried out, pointing toward the display.

"No. B, that lady's over there... I know that I said it was funny...but... well B, she must think you're kinda slow or somethin' an'... Well, let's get a different brand... Captain Crunch ain't so great anyhow. How `bout Alphabets or Cocoa Puffs? Hmmm? Now that's some good shit. And we'll get Cheerios. Then you're covered. Look Honey Nut Cheerios. Somehow that seems perfect. See there's a bee on the box. A bee for you, B. Buzzzz. You're a little bee." Faith lightly poked the smaller girl, laughing. "A bee. Get it? Buzzzz. You're my little bee... my Buffy bee...bzzz...bzzz" Faith reached out and tickled the blonde, trying to distract her from the Captain Crunch display.

Buffy immediately broke into a fit of giggles. "Bee. Me Buffy bee. buzzzz... bzzz... See... Faith see... Bzzzzz. Bees fly. Me a bee. Buffy bee fly. Bzzzzz." She held out her arms and ran down the isle. "Buzzz...buzzz. Faith! See! Buffy bee flies."

"Shhhh... yeah B. Settle down and come here." Faith glared at some of the staring shoppers, daring them to linger. They hurriedly pushed their carts and went on their way. "Buffy... over here." She grabbed the little caveslayer's hand, pulling her back to the cart. Faith tipped Buffy's face up and wiped a bit of breakfast sausage from her lips. "You're supposed to be helping me, remember? Hmmm?"

Buffy nodded. "Help Faith. Buffy help Faith."

"Yeah, that's right... so slow down. I don't have a list so we're jus' doing the isle by isle thing. Hey B, over there. Go get us a loaf of bread and don't squish it." Faith gave her a gentle shove in the direction of the bakery.

"Yes. `kay Faith. Buffy get bread. `kay." She bounded off. *Bread. Get bread. Bread for Faith. Don't squash bread. No squash.* The caveslayer rushed back proudly with the bread. "No squash. No squashed."

"Huh? Yeah good, B. Put it in the cart." Faith turned back toward the shelf.

"Bzzzz. Buffy bee... buzzzz." Cave-Buffy bounced next to Faith, looking for attention. "Faith? Faith? Buffy bee. See... buzzz." She tugged Faith's sleeve, whining. "Faaaiittthh?"

"Uh-huh." Faith absently patted Buffy. "Shhhh. C'mon babe, we have to get some more milk... and orange juice. Ooh, and this." The brunette tossed a box of crackers into the cart then a bag of cookies, moving ahead slowly and scanning the isle.

"Oh! Cookies!" Cave-Buffy's eyes lit up. "Good... yum. Yeah. Good!" She reached into the cart tearing the bag.

"B, hey! Arrrgh!.. No!" Faith stopped, preparing to take the cookies away, but Buffy smiled up excitedly holding one. "Frick! Damn it! Fine. Have a cookie, but don't do that again. You have to wait till we pay for things first. Understand?"

"Coookkkkiiesssss! Cookie!" Buffy munched the cookies, grinning with crumbs and chocolate on her face. "Faith want cookie?" The little blonde held one out.

Faith shrugged and took it. "Huh... yeah, these are pretty good cookies." She reached over and smoothed a few loose blonde curls from Buffy's face before nudging her on. "Okay B.. go grab a ticket for me. We have to wait in a line over here." They stopped at the deli counter.

Buffy raced in front of several coed-looking guys and pulled a number from the dispenser. The frat guys turned and smiled at them, talking to each other. "Dude, they're hot. Check `em out."

"Look at the blonde. She's a fox."

"No man, the brunette. The brunette I tell ya... look at that body and all encased in leather. Dude! She'll make your eyes roll back I bet ya." The tall boy laughed socking his other friend in the arm. "See, it's the brunette. She's is the one... You can have that prissy blonde."

"Ooh come here..." The third guy, a muscle bound blonde, turned to his stoned friend, "Hey dude, let's invite them to our party. Whaddya think?"

"Yeah. The brunette will suck ya dry..." The stoner agreed. "Dave's right; the brunette is a fuck and a half. Oh yeah!" He grinned and slapped his friend's shoulder. "Parker might like that blonde though. Go invite `em."

Faith glimpsed the college boys watching them. *Oh fuck... and those guys are cuties too. Damn, how embarrassing!* Faith pretended she didn't know Buffy and glanced in the other direction.

The little blonde pressed her face against the glass of the Lobster tank. "Look Faith! Spiders. Oh no. Aaaa! Help! Ugly spiders!" She screamed and ran to Faith clinging to her.

The guys roared, nudging each other. "Check it out. Fuck, that chick must be on acid or somethin'."

"Dude, invite `em quick. I want the brunette."

"No way, the drugged chick.. Take the drugged chick. We can drop her in a bedroom and run a train on her."

"Yeah man, bang that little chick all night."

"I don't know, Dave. She's got cookie crumbs all over her face... Maybe she's retarded."

"No dude. She's too hot. She's just fuckin' high or something." The stoner chimed in, squinting and nodding. "I'd do her. Yeah. And I bet those babes get it on together. See, look at the way the blonde's hangin' on her. Oh yeah, now that's hot!"

"Fuck! Invite `em! Invite `em!"

"Invite them yourself, ya fuckin' pussy!" The tall boy shoved the other in annoyance.

"You dick!"

"Well, while you girls settle it. I'm going over to bag a babe. Later." The stoner walked over to Faith.

"Hey, how's it going? Your friend gonna be alright?" The coed grinned at Faith and held out his hand. "I'm Jason... And you are?"

Faith smiled back at the handsome boy and took his hand, "Hey. Nice to meet ya. I'm Faith and this little freak is Buffy. Say hi, B."

"Hi bee." Buffy giggled.

Jason's eyes narrowed. *Either she's high or she's being a bitch. Huh?* "Well my friends and I were wondering." He gestured back at the guys stupidly watching them. "Yeah... um... we were wondering if ya weren't doing anything... you know... if you'd want to go to a party later. It's at our frat house. Oh and you're invited too, Buffy. I think my friend Parker would totally want to meet ya."

"Parker? Parker?! Parker bad!" Buffy suddenly screeched, shoving Jason hard. "Parker bad!" The little blonde repeated angrily, shoving the boy hard again. Faith caught him as he stumbled backwards.

"Never mind!" He straightened, holding his hands up to ward Buffy off. "Shit honey, maybe you should lay off the drugs!" Jason then turned back to look at Faith, eyeing her up and down again. "Hey, but you're still welcome to come... or maybe I can call ya." He ran his hand over Faith's leather clad bottom, leering suggestively.

"Buffy! NO!" Faith reached up and blocked Buffy's punch, wrapping her arms around the little blonde and pulling her back. "No B, it's okay. Don't!"

"FAITH MINE! MINE!" The caveslayer shouted, kicking and swinging. Buffy was attempting to get loose intent on beating the hell out of the boy. "NO! YOU NO TOUCH! NO TOUCH FAITH! FAITH MINE! BUFFY STRONG! BUFFY HURT BOY!"

A crowd gathered and gawked as Faith struggled to hold Buffy back. "No! B, stop it! C'mon, let's go. It's okay. Shhhh!" She glanced at the onlookers. "Get lost! Whaddya looking at?! Fuck off!" They slowly dispersed, meanwhile the boys grabbed Jason pulling him away.

"Never mind dude. They're just a couple of dykes. Let's go."

"Yeah. The blonde one's crazy!"

Faith sneered, "I'll show ya crazy. Now get gone before I let her start kickin' your asses! You don't want that... `cause I'll be the one who finishes it! Got it! Ya frickin' creeps!"

"Whoa! They're both crazy! C'mon, get back. Let's go! Jason?!"

"Fuck you! You bitch!" Jason stepped near, yelling in Buffy's face. "And you! You little cunt, your girlfriend's a whore!"

Faith gave him a big smile then casually let go of Buffy. BAM! The tiny blonde slayer swung so quick, he never saw the punch. Jason was out cold before he hit the floor.

"Aw shit! I think the bitch broke his nose. Look at all the blood on his face." The tall boy knelt over Jason.

Faith peered down. "Yeah. I think she did."

"Get away, you bitch!"

"B, no!" Faith immediately caught Buffy, pulling her into another bear hug. "That's enough." She gently consoled the little slayer who had tears of anger streaming down her face. "Shhh. I know you're mad. It's okay. Shhh."

"Buffy hurt boy! Boy bad! Buffy want to hurt boy more. More!"

"Shhhh B. No. No. No more." Faith squeezed her close, whispering in her ear. "Be a good girl. No more. I want you to be good. Good girl. Hmm?... Time to go."

Cave-Buffy sniffled and nodded as Faith dragged her from the scene. "Food? Faith? Food?!" Buffy worriedly asked.

"Shit, they'll probably call the police." Faith spoke gruffly watching the small crowd.

"Cereal? Bread? Milk?... hungry. Buffy hungry. Cookies?" Cave-Buffy cried gesturing toward their cart.

Faith looked back at her then slowly grinned. "Well at least you're all petite and shit. I don't think the cops would believe you could break anyone's nose. You're too cute... cookie crumbs on your face. Come here." Faith hugged her. "Okay B, we'll try and finish shopping. But you have to be.."

"GOOD! Buffy be good. Buffy good." The little slayer promised quickly. "No bad! Not bad! Buffy good." Her green eyed still held unshed tears as she nodded her head. "Buffy listen to Faith."

Faith rescued their partially filled cart, casting a glance at the retreating boys. Jason limped off still holding his nose while the other boys half carried him.

Faith could barely stifle a laugh at the site. *Fuck! Can't take B anywhere these days!* She smiled as she thought about what just happened. *B, defending my honor. Huh? Imagine that!* She pushed the cart in front of the little blonde obediantly waiting. "Okay B. Now if you're good the rest of the time, I'll take you to the toy store later."

"Toys! Toys!" Cave-Buffy clapped her hands. "Want toys!"

*****
Part 12: Faith Bad!

Faith glanced over at Buffy who now sat contently munching the snack given to her and watching cartoons. The small caveslayer giggled. "Funny bunny! Ha.. Bugs! Awww... poor duck. Hehehe... Daffy! Daffy, silly duck." She tilted her head and poked the TV screen. "Be nice Bugs. Bad bunny. Be nice to Daffy!"

Faith remained in the kitchen and stood quietly observing the little blonde. *Fuck, she's cute! Ugh, what am I doin'?... Jezuz christ! What is goin' on anyway?! I'm suppose to hate her... and I can't! She's still Buffy!... well, kinda... and kinda not... Buffy but different Buffy... all sweet... and cute... Yeah, she's wicked cute!... but... Dammit Faith... You shouldn't be having sex with her!... It's creepy!...and... It's wrong!... Shit, I don't even need little miss morality in there to tell me that much... but goddang it's good... she's soooo sexy... mmm... and hot in bed... jeezuz girl, those were some awesome orgasms... Wicked good!... Yeah, they were!... mmm... B..*

Faith stared at Buffy's mouth as the older slayer set her milk glass down. *What a cute little mouth... so kissable... mmm... kissing Buffy Summers... Fuck, so many of these dorks in this town would kill for that oppurtunity... and I can jus' walk in there and have her... oh, yeah...* The brunette shifted suddenly aware of her own arousal.

"Faith! Faith, look!" Cave-Buffy clapped her hands in excitement. "Look! Tiny people singing! Hehehe! See! Faaaiiittthh!"

Faith could feel an enormous smile spreading across her face. *The little shit!... She sure knows how to get me.* "What B? What is it?" The younger slayer walked into the room and casually glanced at the television.

Buffy's eyes lit up when she noticed Faith. "Faith! Faith here!" The little caveslayer threw her arms around the brunette's waist and leaned her cheek against Faith's chest, grunting out. "Buffy like Faith! My Faith! Look Faith, see the tiny people singing. Hehehe! Tiny, tiny people!" The cartoons had ended and now music videos were playing.

Cave-Buffy became serious and asked, "Faith, see tiny people in TV?! How they get tiny? How they fit?!" She snuggled further into Faith's arms, resting against the brunette's cleavage.

"Huh?" Faith could feel Buffy's warm breath against her breasts. "Uh... um... oh yeah, B... they're not really... well what it is, is that they're... uhhh... they're.." The brunette stopped to think on an explaination. She shrugged and then said, "Yeah, they're really tiny. Aren't they?.. It's jus' crazy, B." She smirked as the blonde excepted her response without question.

"Oh, just tiny people? Just tiny people! Tiny people good. Tiny people funny! See tiny people singing!"

Faith kissed the top of Buffy's head several times. *Who am I kidding... I like this little runt.* She closed her eyes and held Buffy tight. *She's a muffin, alright... and for now she's mine.* "Uh-huh, B. The tiny people are singing. You like that, don't ya?" She gently stroked Buffy's silky blonde hair playing with some of the natural curls that sprung up here and there. *Damn, I love her hair.*

"Faith? Want milk?" Cave-Buffy pulled away and reached over picking up her glass and offering it to Faith.

"No baby, I'm not thirsty. Let's go take a nap." Faith could feel a rush of heat between her legs at the thought of laying down with her caveslayer. *Oh, I want her. Fuck, I want her.* "C'mon B, nap time." She gently pried the milk glass away and set it back down.

"Nap time. O-kay, Faith. O-kay. Buffy take nap. Faith?"

"Yes B? What babe?" Faith could feel herself burning for the other girl. She swallowed hard, pushing her guilt away.

"Faith, you take nap with Buffy?"

"Uh-huh. Yep, I'm taking a nap with you B."

"Bee. Bee. Buzzz...bzzz..." The small blonde jumped up and ran to the bedroom making buzzing noises. "Buffy bee!" She snorted and screamed as Faith chased her into room. The brunette grabbed the smaller girl and easily tossed her onto the bed. "Aah!" Buffy broke into a fit of giggles as Faith tickled her unmercifully. "Help! Nooooo!" She shrieked and giggled some more.

"C'mon B. Buzzz... Sting me, ya silly little bee." Faith teased, tickling the petite slayer and laughing. "Show Faith what ya got."

Cave-Buffy threw her arms around Faith's neck and kissed her in between giggles. Faith stopped tickling her and became still, staring down at Buffy. *Holy shit!* She felt caught as she gazed into the two sparkling green eyes. *God, look at her... and those eyes... they're so... so beautiful... she's so beautiful and perfect... little miss perfect... damn... she is... Buffy is perfect... perfectly beautiful... perfectly hot... perfectly do-able... perfectly lovable... Oh fuck, I do... I love Buf... Oh no... Wait!... Hold up, Faith!...No way... Nah... Not doing it!... No frickin' way!... NO!* Faith pulled out of Buffy's arms and shoved her back.

"NO! Enough... you take a nap now... by yourself... and no whining." The brunette spoke harshly as she stepped from the bed, leaving a shocked little slayer in her wake.

"Huh? What Buffy do? What Buffy do?!.. Faith angry?" Tears welled up in her big green eyes as she stared at Faith, completely stunned by the sudden change.

"Yeah, I'm angry. I'm sick of your neediness... an' maybe... jus' maybe.. I don't want ya hanging on me all the time either... grubbin' me up, ya know... with your dirty little paws..." Faith shouted unable to control her own frustration.

Cave-Buffy looked at her hands with uncertainty. *Buffy dirty?*

Faith ignored the little slayer's hurt expression and continued her tirade, "Yep, you're a real pain my ass... nothing but a whiny pest!... I can't wait until you leave... `Cause ya know what?! Under all the cave-girl crap, you're still that bitch I hate! That's right! I HATE YOU, BUFFY SUMMERS! I'LL ALWAYS HATE YOU!"

Buffy shook her head, tears streaming down her face, "NO! NO! FAITH BAD! YOU BAD!" She blindly shoved at Faith, knocking her down.

Cave-Buffy tried to run past her but Faith reached out and grabbed her ankle pulling her to the floor. "NOOOO! WANT TO GO!" The little caveslayer screamed, kicking and punching. "NO! BUFFY LEAVE! NO WANT FAITH!"

Faith looked down at the hysterical blonde, crying and struggling to get up. *Oh fuck me! What'd I do! Why'd I do that!.. Oh Buffy, I'm sorry... Shit, I'm sorry.* She wrapped her arms around the sobbing slayer. "Shhhh, c'mon B. I didn't mean it. Shhhh, stop crying. It's okay. I didn't mean it. No, please... please stop crying... come here... let me hold you."

"No. No." Cave-Buffy tried to wiggle out of Faith's arms. "Faith bad. No like Faith. Buffy go now. Buffy no stay! No stay!"

Faith could feel her own tears coming. "No baby. I don't want you to go. C'mon B. No... Please... Please, let me hold ya... I'm sorry... I swear I didn't mean... I don't know why I was mean. Really B, I don't hate ya. I don't."

Buffy quieted a bit and stopped struggling. "Shhhh... that's it. Good Buffy. It's okay... See. Let's go lay on the bed... C'mon." Faith spoke gently, kissing and stroking the tiny slayer. "Please B. Lemme jus' hold you. Hmmm? The floor is kinda uncomfortable. Can we lay on the bed? Is that okay? Buffy... hmm?"

The caveslayer gave her an unhappy nod, letting Faith pick her up. Tears still ran down her flushed little cheeks and a big pout graced her lips, but she silently held on as Faith adjusted her in her arms and carried her to the bed.

The brunette very delicately laid the older slayer down and climbed onto the bed next to her. "Okay B, that's better. See... more comfy?" Faith awkwardly pulled Buffy back into her arms. "Let's take that nap, now."

"No! No touch!" Cave-Buffy pushed at Faith. "Buffy dirty! Buffy pest! Faith hate Buffy!"

"No, that's not true. I don't hate you. I don't hate you, B." Faith gave a weak laugh. "Hell, right now you're barely Buffy anyway." That statement seemed little comfort to the small blonde who merely crossed her arms in front of her chest and glared. "B, c'mon. You know I didn't mean any of that. How could I?"

Cave-Buffy turned to lay with her back facing Faith. "Buffy take nap. Faith go now. Go."

"B? Please?" Faith placed a hand lightly on the small of Buffy's back.

"NO!" The little caveslayer screamed. "NO TOUCH BUFFY! NO TOUCH!"

"Shhhh. Okay. Okay, B. Calm down. I won't touch you. I promise. Let's jus'... um... talk about it. Okay. I want to explain."

"NO TALK! GO! FAITH NO LIKE BUFFY! GO!"

"Okay B. I'm leavin'... Hey, but I want you to know... I'm sorry... an' I don't hate ya... I don't hate you at all. Not even a little, okay." Faith leaned close and stole a kiss before Buffy could push her away. "You take your nap now, B. If ya need anything... I'm just out here... ya know. Okay?" Faith got up and quietly left the room. She closed the door and leaned up against it, crying softly. *Fuck! I'm such a dumbass!*

*****
Part 13: At The Magic Box

Faith turned off the television and walked back to the bedroom. *Jus' need to check on her. That's all.* She pressed her ear to the door and listened. *Nothin'. B, must be asleep.* The brunette eased the door open and peeked in.

Cave-Buffy laid curled and hugging a pillow. Faith slid quietly into the room, and snuck onto the bed behind Buffy. "B?" She whispered. "Buffy, are you awake?"

The little caveslayer grumbled and turned around, snuggling into Faith's arms. "I guess you've forgiven me then." The brunette smiled and gazed down at the sleeping slayer nestled against her. She took in all the delicate features of Buffy's pretty face finding herself continually drawn to that pouty mouth. *Damn... B, you're so beautiful.* Faith leaned in and touched her lips to Buffy's.

"No. No. Buffy tired." The caveslayer mumbled, swatting at Faith.

The brunette laughed and kissed her again.

"Nooo." Cave-Buffy whimpered angrily.

"Shhh.. B, it's okay." Faith whispered as she held Buffy tightly and closed her eyes.

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

The little caveslayer laid in bed watching Faith and waiting for her to wake up. *Hungry. Buffy hungry.* Buffy shook the brunette. "Faith? Faith? Hungry."

"Huh? What?" Faith rolled away from her, going back to sleep.

"Hungry." Cave-Buffy climbed out of bed and made her way to the kitchen. *Food.*

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

The faint sound of the phone intruded on her dreams followed by a loud shriek from the caveslayer. Faith sat up completely awake. *What the hell!*

"B, what's goin' on?" She could hear Buffy's giggles coming down the hall.

"Faaaiiith!" The little blonde jumped onto the bed and hugged Faith. "Faith back."

"Yeah, I'm awake. Why were you screaming?" The phone could be heard again. Cave-Buffy pointed. "Oh shit, the phone."

"Phone?"

"Why didn't you tell me?!" Faith ran to the kitchen to get it.

"Phone!" Buffy announced proudly still sitting on the bed.

"BUFFY!" Faith missed reaching the phone in time, but she was getting a good look at the kitchen. "B, get your butt in here right now!"

*Uh-oh! Faith mad.* The caveslayer came down the hall with her head hung down.

"What'd ya do?!" Faith pointed at all the open cabinets and items pulled out. A variety of things were opened and half eaten or spilled on the floor. "Dammit B! Look at this mess!"

"Buffy hungry." The little blonde's eyes filled with tears. She spoke in a quiet voice, "Hungry."

"Why didn't you just ask? I would have gotten you something to eat."

Cave-Buffy looked up and seeing Faith's angry expression, the tears spilled over. "Faith mad?"

"Yeah. I'm mad! Look!" The brunette gestured toward the disaster.

The older slayer ran to the front door crying hard, "Buffy go. Buffy go." She pulled at the doorknob.

"Fuck! Come here! B, come here."

"Nooo!" The little slayer kicked the door and leaned against it crying.

"Okay now, that's enough. Shhh.." Faith walked over and picked her up. "Shhh B. Hey, listen to me. It's okay. Stop crying. Damn. B, if you stop crying I'll take you to the toy store. Remember? Yeah. We're going to the toy store."

"Toy store?" The little caveslayer sniffled and nodded.

"Yeah, that's it. No more crying. Good girl." She carried Buffy to the sofa and sat down, holding the blonde on her lap. She wiped the tears and kissed her softly. "Are you good now, B? Better?"

Buffy nuzzled Faith's neck and sniffed. *Girl smells nice.* "Faith?"

"Yeah B? What?"

Cave-Buffy leaned back and cocked her head slightly studying Faith. "Faith like Buffy?"

"What? Yeah. Of course, I .." Faith stopped mid-sentence and looked closely at the wild little blonde. She smiled slowly. "Yep. I sure do. I like you, B. I like you a whole lot. `kay?"

The caveslayer threw her arms around Faith and hugged her tight.

"Okay B. Toy store time and then over to see your groupies and Giles."

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

Willow leaned over the book that Anya had opened up. "Hey, get your own book." The ex-demon shoved Willow away in annoyance.

Giles cleared his throat before asking, "Willow, didn't you say Faith agreed to bring Buffy here?"

"Yes, this morning when I stopped by before class. I tried to call earlier but there was no answer. I just figured they were on their way. I can try again." The red headed witch made her way over to the phone.

"Never mind." Xander gestured toward the door. Faith was ushering a noisy cave-Buffy into the Magic Box.

"Faith? Faith, raining. Look."

"Yeah B, it's starting to rain so get your butt inside." Faith looked up at the group. "Hey, sorry we're late. We had somewhere to go first."

"Toy store!" Buffy squeaked.

"Uh... yeah, um.. so what'd you guys find out?" The brunette could feel herself blushing under their close scrutiny.

Giles was the first to respond, "Not a whole lot but there is another matter that needs attention."

"Let's have it then, G-man." Faith interupted as she made her way over to the table.

"Faaaiith?" Buffy whined grabbing for her hand.

Xander glanced over at Willow who merely shrugged in response.

"Faaiith?" Buffy reached for her hand again; this time Faith let her take it.

"Giles thinks there may be some new vampire cult in town." Anya offered.

"Oh?"

Giles began explaining to Faith while cave-Buffy clung to her still fidgeting.

Willow and Xander were trying to get little blonde's attention.

"B, go sit down. Willya?" Faith impatiently pulled a chair and forced her in it before following Giles.

"Hi Buffy." Willow said warmly. Tara turned and gave her a smile.

"Hi!" She greeted them energetically.

"Hey Buffster, where'd you get that?" Xander pointed at the stuffed animal Buffy was clutching.

"Faith." She grinned happily hugging it closer. The scoobies peered over at Faith and Giles who were walking toward the back room still discussing something.

"Can I see it?" Xander held out his hand. The little caveslayer looked at him for moment considering his request, then carefully passed it to him. "Look at this." He laughed, nudging Willow.

"Oh, how cute! It's a stuffed bee." Willow took it from Xander.

"I thought you said Faith and Buffy don't get along." Tara whispered taking the plush toy from Willow and handing back to the anxious caveslayer.

"They don't. Faith doesn't like Buffy; she never really has." Xander chimed in.

Willow faltered, uncertain of the truth in that statement. Cave-Buffy had been listening and became upset.

"NO! NO! Faith likes Buffy!" She smacked the table angrily. "No!"

"What's going on in here?" Giles came out from the workout room. Faith was behind him carrying a sword. The little caveslayer rushed over to brunette and clung to her.

"B, what's wrong?" Faith glanced over at the guilty expressions on the others.

"Faith likes Buffy!" Cave-Buffy seemed insistant. "Like Buffy?"

"Yeah B. I like you. It's okay. Shhh. They were jus' playin'. Calm down." Faith glared at them as she spoke to Buffy. "Listen B, I have to go out for awhile. I won't be gone long so.."

"NO! NO! Buffy go to!"

"You can't B. I have to go slaying. I want you to stay here. Do you understand me?"

"Nooo. Buffy go to."

"B! Are you going to be good?!"

The little caveslayer nodded her head vigorously, "Buffy good. Buffy listen."

"Okay then you're staying here. I'll come back for ya. I promise."

Buffy let herself be led back to table and sat down. She peered over at Xander and frowned.

Faith dug in the bag she had brought and produced a coloring book and crayons which she placed in front of Buffy. "Here. And if you get hungry." Faith pulled out a bag of goldfish crackers.

"Ooh Faith, pass those over here." Xander's eyes lit up. The dark slayer sighed but tossed the bag over to him before turning to Willow.

"Red, you'll watch out for her, right?"

"Of course." Willow was torn between feeling insulted that Faith even thought she had to ask that question and touched that Faith seemed to care enough to ask.

"Well I gotta go then." The sword-wheeling slayer looked over at Giles who gave her a nod.

Buffy's pout grew. "Nooo. No go."

Faith returned the hug before gently removing Buffy's hands. "B, listen to me. I'm coming back. Just wait here. Stay with Willow. Okay?"

"Buffy wait here."

"That's it B. See ya in few."

Everyone's eyes followed Faith then turned to the caveslayer who sat still staring at the door.

"Buffy, what have you got there." Willow sat in the chair next to cave-Buffy and opened her coloring book and crayons. "Help me color this."

The little blonde took a crayon and went to work.

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

Faith stepped into the tomb and found herself facing four of the vamps. *Shit!* "Hey there, boys."

*****
Part 14: B! Shut it!

"Slayer!" The vampire closest to Faith gasped.

"Well howdy to you too." Faith smirked, swinging the sword and removing his head in one swift motion. "One down and three to go. Who's next?"

"Bravo, slayer. We were expecting the blonde, but you'll do." The vampire near the altar waved his hands and several more vamps came out of their hiding places.

*Not good!* Faith turned and noticed that her escape was now blocked.

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

Cave-Buffy held up her coloring book, showing the picture to Anya.

"No Buffy, color in the lines. See." Anya directed her. Giles looked up from his book to give the ex-demon a frown. "Well I'm just trying to help."

"Being quiet while we research a cure for Buffy, that would be more helpful." Giles suggested irritably.

"Hey Wil, is there anything else to eat in that bag Faith brought?" Xander motioned to Willow who got up to look in the bag.

"I can't believe she brought a bag of stuff for Buffy. Look at this." Willow brought out a couple of juice boxes which recieved an immediate reaction from both Xander and a somewhat hyper cave Buffy.

"Juice!" The small blonde clapped her hands and squirmed in her seat, waiting.

"I want one." He reached across the table.

"Hang on Xander. Let me take care of her first. I swear, you behave worse then a child sometimes." Willow puntured the juice box with a straw and then placed it in the little caveslayer outstretched hand. She recieved a grunt of gratitude from the blonde. "Aw, she's so cute right now, isn't she Tara? Little grunting Buffy." Willow stroked Buffy's soft blonde locks; the small slayer smiled up at her while continuing to suck on the straw. "Here Xan." She tossed a juice box over to Xander.

"Yeah baby, give me the juice." He caught the box and was soon sucking it down as fast as Buffy. "Hey, what else is there?"

"Do you two mind?" Giles glared at the teenagers. "This isn't helping Buffy one bit."

"Giles, don't you think it's probably just best to let this wear off. I mean, Faith seems to be taking good care of Buffy." Tara held up a juice box and gestured at the coloring book and the content little caveslayer. "She's actually spoiling her if nothing else. I think Buffy's attachment to Faith is proof of that. You guys can't say you didn't notice it."

"Okay, I admit it was pretty weird. Wil, any other snacks in that bag?"

"Xander please!" Giles shot him a disapproving look before responding to Tara. "I am inclined to agree with you on that point. After all, there's no need to take unneccessary risk. Nevertheless, it's still our responsibility to research for a quicker cure." Giles remarked, sighing as he watched the group's attention fade. "But I suppose we are due for a break."

"Ooh yeah, there's some chocolate chip cookies in here too." Willow held them up.

"Cookies!" Cave-Buffy reached for them.

"Yeah, chocolate chippy goodness!" Xander put out his hand enthusiacally. "Hurray for Faith, right Buffster."

"Faith! Faith good. Buffy like Faith." Cave-Buffy gleefully shoved at Xander.

"Yeah, that's what I said. Take it easy there, caveslayer." Xander rubbed his shoulder but stood waiting for Willow to hand him a cookie.

"I'll have one of those." Giles cleared his throat, slightly embarrassed when the gang turned to look at him in unison. "If there are enough, of course."

"Yeah, there's enough but I think the polite thing to do would be to ask Buffy since Faith obviously packed them for her." Willow leaned down next to the little blonde who sat munching a cookie and bouncing in her chair. "Buffy, can we have some cookies too?"

"Yes. Willow, cookie! Willow nice. Cookie! Eat cookie, Willow!" Cave-Buffy shoved the cookies at Willow.

"Thank you Buffy." The red-head starting passing the cookies out. They turned at the tinkling of the bell. Faith stumbled in, injured but smiling.

"Hey there." She barely had the words out before being nearly knocked over by an overly excited Buffy. "Oomph!" Faith managed to stay standing, but she paled considerably. "Okay B, that's enough."

"Faith, are you alright?" Giles asked worriedly motioning for Xander to give him a hand. They pulled a complaining Buffy away and moved to help Faith. "Willow, call Buffy over, please. What happened?"

"It was a trap but they were expecting Buffy."

"How did you get away?" Tara stepped near.

She barely finished the question when Spike came clattering through the door. "Hey there kitten, are you alright?" He ignored the others and rushed to Faith's side.

"Yeah, I'm just peachy." She gave him a sarcastic smirk then softened a bit. "Thanks bleach boy. Couldn't done it without ya."

Spike suddenly seemed flustered. "Right then, let's get ya patched up." He bent, prepared to pick Faith up and carrying her to the back room.

"NO! NO TOUCH! FAITH MINE!" Cave-Buffy screamed in anger and shoved him hard.

Spike slid across the floor and hit the wall. He pulled himself up, cursing. "WHAT THE BLOODY HELL! ARE YOU MAD?!" His continued his rant out of sheer frustration. "What does a bloke have to do to get a break around here?! Christ! I just helped save a slayer! And this is my thanks?!!! Good god, why bother?!!!" He moved toward Buffy. "You're nothin' but an ungrateful bitch anyway!"

"Easy there, down boy!" Faith motioned for Spike to back off. "She's doesn't know what she's doin' right now... some weird spell or potion or somethin'. Jus' let it go."

Willow turned to look at Faith. "What does she mean by `mine'?"

"Uh! Damn if I know. She's your best friend." Faith shrugged but blushed a deep shade of red just the same.

Cave-Buffy grabbed Faith's hand and roughly dragged her from the others, trying to make it out the front door.

"No B. Wait. Hey, cut it out. I need to sit down... I think."

Spike caught Faith as she passed out. "Those bastards got in a few good blows." He explained and carried her to the table despite the furious objections of a certain little blonde.

"NOOO! NO TOUCH FAITH! MINE! BUFFY TOUCH FAITH! YOU NO TOUCH!"

"Back off slayer." Spike cautioned over his shoulder.

"Buffy, come here." Willow tugged gently at the growling caveslayer. "It's okay. Spike is helping Faith. He isn't hurting her. See."

He gingerly laid the brunette down then leaned over her, the concern evident in his tone. "Are you with us, luscious? Anyone home? C'mon now, you gotta get up."

Faith's eyes opened but remained a bit unfocused.

"That's it. Rise and shine. After all, you gotta take care of goldilocks over there." He gestured toward cave-Buffy who was being distracted by Willow and Xander. Giles checked Faith's injuries.

"Hey there G-man, it's jus' a scratch right?" She gave a weak smile, closing her eyes again.

"Well, it's a bit more than a scratch but you're going to be fine." The watcher gently cleaned the wounds.

"Faaaiiith?" Cave-Buffy whimpered as she tried to peek around the scoobies to see what was happening. The distraction technique wasn't really working, and the caveslayer was getting dangerously close to throwing them aside. "Faaaiiiitth?!"

"It's okay Red. Let her come over here."

Willow and Xander moved to let the small slayer get past. Giles now had Faith's shirt lifted slightly and Spike held her propped up while the watcher finished bandaging her.

"NO! NO!" Cave-Buffy screeched pushing not only Spike away but a very confused Giles.

"Buffy, Faith still needs attending." Giles moved toward the brunette as he spoke. The rest of the group also crowded closer, preparing to interfere if necessary.

"STOP! Mine! Faith mine! You no touch! No touch! Buffy strong. Buffy hurt you!" The tiny blonde grunted, issueing the warning, now fully outraged by the perceived intrusion. She thought that she had clearly identified Faith as her property; yet they intended on pressing the matter. Buffy crouched slightly. Anymore touching of Faith by anyone and she would pounce.

"B! It's okay. They're not feeling me up or nothin'. Damn! What's wrong with you?! Quit this crap, right now!.. ya hear! Don't make me get up!"

The blonde slayer complained, her eyes watering slightly. "Nooo! Faaaiiith! Only Buffy touch Faith?!"

"B! Shut it!" Faith shouted sitting up with a groan.

"Want to go home. Home now." Cave-Buffy pulled at Faith as she eyed the others warily. *You no touch Faith. Faith go home now with Buffy.*

Faith glanced around at the uncomfortably silent group. She swallowed down the pain and climbed off of the table. "Uh... Yeah, that's probably for the best. We should go." She spoke without looking at them as she gathered Buffy's stuff. "I'm gonna take B back to the apartment now. I think she's jus' over-tired or somethin'. Um... bye and thanks."

"Faith, are you sure you're alright?" Giles questioned, even more concerned than before.

"Yep. Five by five. Gotta go G-man. Later. Oh and Red, I guess I'll see you in the morning?"

Willow only nodded mutely, waving at the slayers as they headed out. The rest of the gang following suit.

Once the door shut, Xander turned toward the others. "What the heck was that about?!"

.........

"That was quite a scene in there B. I'm not too happy with ya right at the moment, so don't try giving me one of those cutsie looks."

Faith shook her head as she reached over and buckled Buffy's seatbelt; the little blonde's smile quickly faded. *Buffy sorry.*

*****