Inell's Fanfiction Archive

Willow followed Faith up the stairs and into the lobby of the hotel. She saw Lorne sitting on the large sofa reading a book, his bright yellow suit reminding her of crayons which reminded her of Xander which reminded her that she hadn't yet called her friends to let them know she had arrived safely. Feeling a slight wave of guilt, she found herself hoping they hadn't been worried. She didn't think they would be. She'd called Xander the night before she left, spending over an hour on the phone with him talking more than they had in months. It had been nice, and she was glad that things were good between them. She had hated the idea that they might consider her leaving to be running away. She had also spent nearly two hours with Buffy that night, waking the blonde to quickly tell her she would be gone in the morning, only to find that Buffy had immediately woken up and insisted on quality Willow time before she left. She had only gotten a couple of hours sleep that night, but she had left with feeling better about things. Made it easier to start over when there wasn't so much mental baggage.

"Hey, Pops. We're back," Faith said as she entered the lobby, falling on the sofa beside the demon. "And early too."

"I'm very proud, Cupcake," Lorne said looking up with a smile. He laughed as he looked at Faith's face. He licked his finger and leaned over, wiping the corner of her mouth. "Powdered sugar."

"Man, you weren't supposed to tell her," Gunn grumbled with a smile as he sat on the chair opposite the sofa.

"It wasn't all that noticeable," Lorne confided to a scowling Faith. He rolled his eyes as she threatened Gunn for not telling her she had something on her face. Those two sounded like bickering siblings. He had to smile at that thought, finding himself wondering if Gunn might be persuaded to stay with them. He fit into their new little family very well, and Lorne had always liked the boy. Besides, it would do him good for a change of scenery. He'd have to test the waters and see if it was a favorable idea.

"Faith, it isn't Gunn's fault you're a messy eater," Willow said with a smile as she joined the group. "I would have told you if I'd noticed it, but, since I didn't, you know it wasn't very obvious so quit whining."

"I'm a slayer. Slayers don't whine," Faith said before stopping and groaning, "Buffy! Damn, why'd she have to go and run that rule?"

"Lorne, do you think I have enough time to run upstairs and make some phone calls?" Willow asked as Markine joined them, asking Faith and Gunn if they had enjoyed their outing. They replied with a positive yes before Faith stood and announced that she was running upstairs to change into something more comfortable. It had been agreed that she'd take a short break from slaying, doing patrols once they were settled into their new house. Willow gave it a day before she'd be accompanying her friend on nightly walks to just 'look around'.

"Yes," Lorne nodded, knowing the redhead needed to call her friends and let them know she had arrived safely. "Henry called and said he'd be by at six, so you should have plenty of time."

"Oh, Willow. I spoke to Sienna and I'm sorry to say that she has already hired a day girl," Markine apologized, "but I contacted another friend who runs a similar shop and she is definitely interested. It would be three or four days a week from nine until 4. If you're still interested, she'd like to meet you on Monday."

"Thanks, Markine," Willow smiled, not really caring where she worked as long as she made enough money to help out with their new house. "What's her name and when do I meet her?"

"Her name is Mae, and the shop is called Enchantment. It's also on Royal, a few blocks down from Yesterdays," Markine said. "I'll phone her tomorrow and get a definite time, though I assume it will be early afternoon. Will that be good for you?"

"Any time is fine with me," Willow said. "Just let me know, and I'll be there." She looked at Lorne and said, "I'm going up to make those calls. I'll be down in time for the meeting."

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

"Hey baby...what are you wearing?"

Angel looked at the phone and frowned as he heard the breathy words. His lips twisted into a fond smile as he placed the voice. Willow. He decided to play along with her, "Actually, I just got out of the shower so I'm standing here with water dripping down my nude body."

"Angel!" Willow squeaked, glad he couldn't see her blushing face. He was the last person for her to call, so she'd decided to shock him by pretending to be an obscene caller. And now he'd gone and turned it around on her, causing her to the embarrassed one instead of him.

"Willow? Is that you?" he asked innocently, though he couldn't hide the amusement in his voice.

"You know it's me you stupid vampire," Willow muttered. "Quit teasing me or I won't tell you about our trip!"

"I'm sorry, Will. I couldn't resist," he admitted as he sat down, his feet moving to rest on top of the coffee table. "You started it!"

"Yeah, remind me not to play with you anymore, Angelus!" Willow said, stressing his name.

"I'm offended, Red. I'm very fun to play with," Angel teased.

"Sorry, hun, but you're not my type," Willow said with a laugh. She liked flirting with Angel. It was safe and fun because she knew he wasn't interested in her in that way and she definitely wasn't interested in him. Sure, he was attractive in a big hulkish type of way, but her crush on him had been years ago and had faded into a fond friendship.

"You're breaking my heart, lass" he drawled with a touch of Irish brogue, having discovered over the years that talking to Willow never failed to cheer him up, "So, you and the brats made it safely?"

"Yeah, though there were some tense moments when Lorne wanted to listen to the Chicago soundtrack," Willow laughed, looking at the clock and seeing that she had nearly twenty minutes before she needed to be downstairs. She'd promised Buffy that she'd send an email describing every detail of their journey and she'd promised a follow up call to Xander when she had more time to talk. "And I nearly had to break up a fight between Faith and Lorne when they both shared the back seat, but otherwise, things have been fantastic."

"I'm glad," Angel said sincerely. He considered Willow one of his very best friends in a limited circle. He hoped New Orleans would give her what she wanted and needed.

"This town is great, Angel. I mean, it smells a bit weird and the river is a dirty shade of brown, but it's just perfect the way it is. And Lorne has been out to eat and walked down the street and no one has even said a word! Can you believe that? They think he's in a costume or something," Willow laughed.

"I've never been to New Orleans, myself, but I've heard it is like visiting a different planet when you're in the Quarter," Angel said. "How is Gunn?"

"He's fine. He went out to look at the river this afternoon with me and Faith. Those two are always arguing. Reminds me of Dawn and Buffy at times. He seems happy," Willow said thoughtfully.

"And Lorne?" Angel asked, glad that Gunn wasn't brooding on the entire Fred and Wesley fiasco.

"He's Lorne," Willow said, unable to really describe the green demon. "He's enthusiastic and entertaining and seems to be having a great time. He has connections and got us rooms to stay in until we get a house for a very discounted price, and his friend might have found me a job already and we've only been here a few hours! Oh, and the real estate guy is coming in less then fifteen minutes with pictures of properties for us to look at and I'm still a bit shocked that I'm really here, that I'm really moving away from Sunnydale, that I'm surrounded by people that make me happy and that this is really happening."

"It sounds like you have your plate full," Angel observed. "And how is Faith? I can imagine the car trip was very confining for her."

"Yeah, you could say that," Willow agreed. "She's good. She's happier than I can remember ever seeing her. She eats constantly and has promised to wait to patrol until we're settled in, but if she doesn't start training again soon, I'm afraid she may gain a thousand pounds!"

"Well, from what I've heard, New Orleans is a diner's paradise so she should be in heaven," Angel said with a smile, knowing from his short time with the girl after she was released from jail that she always seemed to be snacking and eating when she wasn't fighting or being a smart ass. "Did Gunn mention when he would be coming back?"

"He hasn't said a word," Willow said with a sigh. She didn't want to jump to conclusions, but it appeared to her that Gunn was in no hurry to go back to LA. He seemed to be enjoying his time with them, and she kind of hoped he might stay awhile. She wasn't about to tell Angel that, though, because she knew the vampire probably missed his friend. He had already lost Lorne, and, even though he probably didn't care, Cordelia and Connor. She hoped he wasn't that lonely, though Angel tended to like being alone so she was sure he was probably enjoying the break from constant people and problems.

"He'll come back when he's ready," Angel decided.

"Hey, Red, it's nearly time," Faith said as she entered their room. She had left earlier after changing, knowing that Willow was talking to Buffy. "Who are ya talking to?"

"Angel," Willow said with a smile. "I'm going to have to go now, Angel. It's nearly time to meet the real estate guy."

"Do ya miss me yet, Fang?" Faith asked as she took the phone away from Willow.

"Not yet, but keep asking," Angel replied with a smile, "tell Willow I'll talk to her soon. Stay out of trouble, slayer."

"I don't miss you either," Faith said with a smirk as she hung up. She handed Willow the phone, saying confidently, "He misses us."

"I'm sure he does," Willow laughed as she followed her friend out the door and down the stairs to meet with the real estate guy.

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

"You can sleep in here."

Spike glanced at his friend, nodding once, "Thanks, mate."

Klorite shrugged his large orange shoulders and reminded, "You saved my life, William. I owe you. A room is nothing."

"Forget about that already," Spike groaned. "We're even."

"Not even close, my friend," Klorite said with a smile, moving his scaled hand over the door to his guest bedroom. He had been surprised when he had opened his front door not an hour before to see his old friend standing there, needing a place to stay. He hadn't hesitated in offering his guest bedroom. William had saved him from a demon hunter several decades before so he owed the blond vampire his life. Not that William would ever acknowledge that there was even a debt owed. He looked over his friend, seeing the differences since the last time he had seen him. He was quiet, thoughtful, his hair a dirty blond instead of the shocking bleached white. There was still an aura of danger surrounded the vampire but it was coupled with something he couldn't quite place, restraint maybe. If anything, it makes William seem even more deadly. He looked tired, Klor realized. He gave a smile as he said, "You can stay here as long as you wish."

"I appreciate it, Klor," Spike said, thankful that he had made some friends over the years. He'd been calling in a lot of favors the last few weeks, and probably would be calling in more before he was finally settled somewhere. "Been driving for the past couple of weeks. Could use a bit of a rest."

"We'll go out for a drink once you've rested," Klor said. "There's a great bar not far from here that you'll probably enjoy. Houston is a good city, my friend. I'll leave you to rest now. I'll go out and pick up some blood for you. You are still bagging it, aren't you?"

Spike made a face, "Yeah. Bloody damn soul won't have it any other way."

"I'll heat some up for you when I get back," Klor offered, having heard rumors of what had happened to the vampire now standing before him. A lesser vampire would have watched the sunrise if they found themselves possessing a soul. William was stronger than that, though. Klor had met many vampires in his nearly three hundred years in this realm, and none were as powerful as the one now staying in his guest room. William was someone you wanted on your side, someone you did not wish to cross at any time. He had seen what happened to enemies of the vampire, knowing that, soul or not, William would not hesitate in protecting himself or those he considered friends. Loyalty had always been one of the vampire's strongest qualities, one that had saved Klor's life during that dark time. No need to think of that now. He was happy. He had a mate and a nice life in Houston. He only wished his friend could find the same happiness. Maybe he would, Klor hoped. He turned to leave, knowing his friend probably would enjoy a nap before they went to have a drink.

"Thanks," Spike nodded at the demon as he put his bag on the bed. It was nice having his own room for a bit. He'd only arrived in Houston a couple of hours before, finding Klor with relative ease. He had known the demon would let him stay with him for a bit, but he had expected another sofa, not his own room. This was good. He laid on the bed, listening as Klor and his mate discussed dinner, a slight smile crossing his lips.

Houston wasn't the right place, either. He had known as soon as he had entered the city limits. It would do for now, though. He was tired of driving, could use a good week or more in one place. Have a few pints, talk to some friends, get some much needed sleep. When he was ready, he'd move on. His blue eyes looked around the room, noticing a bright green and gold sign that was a souvenir from Mardi Gras. His eyes grew thoughtful as he studied it, a slow smile crossing his face. He'd head to New Orleans. He had never been there, but he thought he knew some people there. He'd stay in Houston for a couple of weeks, he decided. After that, he'd drive to New Orleans. The decision seemed right, the choice good. Maybe he'd finally find somewhere to settle down. New Orleans would be as good a possibility as anywhere else. His eyes drifted close finally as he drifted into a much needed nap.

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

Willow followed Faith down the stairs, surprised when the slayer turned and headed down the hallway away from the lobby, "Where are we going?"

"Markine is letting us use the office," Faith said with a smile. "It's got a big table and comfy chairs, so she thought it would easier than trying to crowd into the lobby."

"That's great," Willow said as she entered the office in question. She smiled at Lorne, "Is the real estate guy here yet?"

"Not yet, sweets," Lorne said, "Henry should be here soon. Did you get your calls made?"

"Yep," Willow sat down next to the demon, "everyone said hi and that they hope we find the perfect house."

"They probably just want to make sure it has a guest room so they can crash if they ever come to town," Faith said with a snort. "I know those mooches."

"Well, actually, Xander did mention something about making sure we got a comfy sofa before his vacation next year," Willow said thoughtfully, though her eyes were lit with amusement.

"Just what we need, a visit from Chubs," Faith said, rolling her eyes.

"That is such a tacky nickname," Willow said. "Just because he's gained a little weight since high school, I wouldn't say he could classify as Chubs."

"I like it," Faith smiled sweetly. "And he even said it was much better than most the things I could be calling him."

"He was just being nice," Willow shot back, "he really hated it. Kept looking in the mirror to see if he was getting fat. You're mean!"

"He did?" Faith laughed as she sat back in the chair, her hands going behind her head, "My work is done."

"You're impossible," Willow had to laugh, knowing it was futile to try to argue with Faith. The girl was even more stubborn than herself, which was saying a lot. Besides, she kind of thought the nickname was fitting for Xander.

Before Faith could respond, the door opened and a man walked in. Willow looked at him in surprise, having honestly been expecting a demon of some sort. He must have noticed her look because he laughed, "Were you expecting big and purple with scales?"

"Honestly? Yes," Willow smiled at him, deciding she liked him. He was older than Giles, his hair nearly white. He was wearing a nice suit and had on wire rim glasses. "I'm Willow. This is Faith and Charles and Lorne."

"Call me Gunn," Gunn said as he stood to shake the man's hand.

"I'm Henry," Henry smiled at them as he placed his case on the table. "So, Markine told me you were looking for a house and a location to run a club of some sort. After speaking to Lorne earlier, I went through my files and found several possibilities."

"Let's see what you've got, Hank," Faith said, leaning forward to see the pictures he had removed from his briefcase.

"I kept the focus on the Quarter, as you requested," Henry said. "I must confess, there weren't many locations with as many rooms as you requested so you might want to widen the search. I do have one property that I think would be perfect, especially after meeting all of you, but I think we'll save it for last."

"I'd prefer staying in the Quarter," Lorne said, gesturing at himself, "a little less conspicuous than say the Garden district, you know?"

"I can see your point," Henry smiled, "well, then, let's look and see what we've got."

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

"Pictures!" Faith said with a smile as she reached to take one of the photos from Henry.

"Faith, stop that!" Willow scolded with a smile. "Let Lorne see first. He is the one with the money, after all."

"It's okay, Sweets," Lorne smiled at the redhead. "We will all be living there, so it's very important that we all like it."

"This is the first property," Henry said, handing the photo to Faith. "It's on Orleans, four bedroom as you specified. It's in good condition but could use a little work."

"Four bedrooms?" Faith glanced at Lorne, arching a brow.

"Gunn needs somewhere to stay when he visits," Lorne said, giving the slayer a pointed look. He watched the black man look at him and smile, deciding that it might not be that difficult to convince the boy to stay with them after all.

"You're getting me a room?" Gunn smiled, suddenly taking an interest in the whole house looking thing. "Let me see."

"Wait your turn," Faith said as she stuck her tongue out at him before handing the photo to Willow.

Willow looked at it, seeing what she would typically think of when thinking of the French Quarter. It was a nice enough looking exterior, appeared to be rather old, and was a soft shade of blue. "All you have is the exterior?"

"Sorry," Henry apologized, "I can give you descriptions if needed, but usually prefer to let my clients experience the house in person rather than through photographs."

"Oh, okay," Willow said, a bit disappointed. She wanted to see what each of the houses looked like inside. The outside didn't really show anything except the color and basic architecture. She guessed she would have to wait. "It looks nice. I like the color."

"It's worth looking at," Lorne decided, putting it on the table beside his left elbow. "What else do we have?"

Henry continued to hand out various photographs, the minimum rooms being four, the largest being five. After they had studied the exterior of the houses, he moved onto empty businesses. He could tell they weren't taken with any of the properties particularly. He looked at the picture of the house and business he had first thought of when he had spoken to Lorne, knowing that it was a bit expensive and large, but he thought it might be perfect for them. The previous owners had moved to France two years before, the property having been empty since. It was one of his favorite locations, but was a bit too much for most of his clients to handle. As it happened, it might just be ideal for these people. He saw the stack of photos that showed properties that they were interested in viewing along with a smaller stack of properties one or more of them had instantly disliked. Finally, he said, "I was saving my favorite for last."

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

"Let's see it," Willow asked, giving him a smile. She had seen several places that looked quite nice, but nothing had instantly gotten her attention. She figured she would know the perfect place after viewing it, the photographs not giving a good overall feel for the property.

"Damn," Faith let out a whistle. "This is all together, isn't it?"

"Yes," Henry nodded. "It is located on Chartres, between Dumaine and St. Ann. I've had it listed for nearly two years now."

"Wow," Willow took the picture and smiled. "We have to see this house!"

"The lower level is zoned for business," Henry pointed out, "and the house consists of the two levels above the business. There is also an attic that could easily be converted to a room, if you wanted. The business entrance is through a small courtyard, the back facing onto Royal, where there is an entrance to the house as well as the trash area for the business. It was most recently occupied by a club, so I am certain that it would be easy to get your business requests passed."

"This is huge," Lorne said, looking at the property and then looking at Henry.

"One of the largest single properties in the entire quarter," Henry said, "the price is rather high, but, considering you get the house and the business, it is actually pretty competitive."

"Dude, how many rooms are there?" Gunn asked, not able to believe the photograph he was looking at.

"Seven bedrooms, though three are small," Henry smiled, watching their reactions, "a kitchen and two large bedrooms with bath are on the lower level, as well as a living room, library, dining room, bathroom, and den. The higher level, or third floor, is two very large bedrooms with bath that face onto Royal with private balconies, as well as the three smaller rooms, a bathroom, and a sitting area that could be converted to whatever you wished. As I said, there is an attic that was being used for storage. The business has a basement area that was formerly used as a storage and office area. It is very impressive, and, considering everything you get, the price is quite reasonable."

"There's a courtyard?" Willow asked, looking at Lorne after Henry nodded and smiling. "What do you think?"

"I'm wondering how we could possibly keep it clean?" Lorne said with a smile. The price wasn't important to him. He'd already studied his finances, knowing that he had more than enough to cover whatever they decided. Henry was aware of his target price, and he knew the man wouldn't have shown them this property if it was outside his budget.

"It also comes completely furnished," Henry added, thinking that he might have finally found someone interested in his favorite property.

"And just how much commission do you get out of this?" Faith asked him with a knowing smile. He had hardly commented on any of the previous properties, answering specific questions, but he had hardly stopped talking about this one. She liked it. It was a pretty rosy shade of pink, balconies overlooking what must be the courtyard. The business was directly underneath the house so it would be very convenient. And it appeared to be in good condition. If Lorne could afford it, she thought it was perfect.

"There are two entrances to the house, one through the courtyard and one on Royal as I previously mentioned. There is also a back entrance through the club to the house," Henry said, just winking at the brunette instead of answering her amused question. "Capacity for the business when it was a club was 360, though it might go up or down depending on the number of tables and other factors."

"You don't have to sell us anymore," Lorne said with a smile. "We'll look at it tomorrow. If it looks as good this picture, well, we'll have to start negotiating."

"How about I meet you here at noon tomorrow?" Henry suggested as he began gathering his pictures. "We can get some lunch and then go tour the house."

"Lunch sounds great," Faith smiled, winking at Willow who just rolled her eyes.

"Okay, then. Tomorrow at noon," Henry shook Lorne's hand before he left the small group that was already excitedly talking about the next day.

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

"Man, I hate to imagine what the price tag on that house is," Gunn whistled once Henry had left the room.

"I doubt I can count that high," Faith said, stopping to glare at him before he could respond, "Don't say a word, Chuck!"

"I wasn't gonna say a word," he denied, though his brown eyes sparkled with amusement.

"Henry was aware of my budget, so I can confidently say that it is a price that I can afford," Lorne said before those two could start arguing again.

"It was beautiful, but a photo can be misleading," Willow said, "I'm reserving my official opinion until I see it tomorrow. It does sound wonderful, doesn't it?"

"Beyond anything I could ever imagine," Faith said with a smile. "It sounds fucking huge!"

"It *is* a big larger than I had planned," Lorne admitted, "but it is always nice to have extra room. I'm sure we'll have friends coming in to visit at times, and it is much easier to have them stay in a guest room than a hotel."

"If we do get that house, I'm so not telling Xander about it or we'd have a permanent guest!" Willow laughed.

"I'll make sure you don't tell him about it," Faith said, shuddering at the idea of sharing a house with the moron. She'd made many mistakes in her short life, having sex with Xander being one of the biggest. She still didn't know what she'd been thinking. Okay, so she had to admit he hadn't been that bad for a virgin, but she still wished she could take it back.

"I can't believe it's not even eight," Gunn said as he covered a yawn. "It feels like it's much later, and we're even ahead a few hours from home. I guess all those days in the car are finally catching up with me."

"Nah, you're just getting old," Willow teased with a smile.

"I get it now! So this is how it's gonna be. You and the slayer ganging up on me, huh, Red?" Gunn laughed, "I'm too tired to even think of a good comeback so I'll simply say goodnight, KIDS."

"Get some rest, Chuck. Tomorrow is going to be a busy day, and we don't want to be slowed down by you, old timer," Faith said with a smirk as the black man made a face at her before leaving the room. She stood up and stretched, asking the others, "So, is anyone ready for dinner?"

"I'm actually not all that hungry," Willow said with an apologetic smile at the slayer. "I thought I might ask Markine if I could use the kitchen to make a sandwich."

"That's cool," Faith covered a yawn before smiling sheepishly, "maybe a light dinner and then bed. It's been an active day."

"Willow, before you go, I need to talk to you about something," Lorne said, wanting to catch the girl tonight rather than wait for the morning. He didn't want to risk forgetting. "You don't have to go, Faith."

"Actually, I'm going to run up to the room and use the bathroom. Red can fill me in later if it's important," Faith said with a smile at the green demon before she looked at Willow, "I'll meet you in the kitchen after I get permission from Markine to raid the fridge."

"Markine will regret the day she lets Faith into her kitchen," Lorne said with a wink at Willow after the slayer had left the room.

Willow laughed before she asked, "So, what did you want to talk to me about?"

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

"I have a favor to ask," Lorne said as he focused his attention on the redhead.

"Anything," Willow responded promptly.

Lorne had to laugh, "Cupcake, you don't even know the favor yet!"

"Doesn't matter," Willow smiled at him, "you're my friend which means I'd do anything for you. I trust you so I know you're not going to ask me to do something evil so quit being silly and tell me what it is."

"You amaze me, doll face," Lorne admitted, shaking his head slightly. He knew what the girl had been through over the last year, knew she was one of the strongest humans he'd ever met to be able to accept the bad with the good. She'd accepted what she had done, knew the poor choice she had made, and was now more in control of her gift than ever before. She would do great things, had already done great things. The glimpses he had seen of her future were remarkable, not that he would ever tell her he had read her. He hadn't been able to help it, though. He'd read Charles and Faith several times in the past, but the redhead was new to him. When she had been singing in the car, he hadn't been able to resist taking a little peak. What he had seen was not at all surprising. Power and love and purity. Yes, this little girl would continue being a powerful ally for the powers that be. He now wished he'd paid more attention to her reading, but he'd tried to be covert about it all, not wanting to get caught. He'd promised them that he'd never read them without permission so he'd just half read her so that it wouldn't officially be breaking a promise. He'd have to try to get her to let him read her fully. He was curious as to who had caused such strong emotions of love within her reading, as well as trying to figure out a few other things he'd read bits of that confused him. Realizing she was still waiting for his answer, he smiled, "Can I put your name on the deed?"

"What?" Willow looked at him in surprise, this being the very last thing she would have expected him to ask. "You want to put the house in my name?"

"The house and the club," he nodded. "I'd be a silent partner and owner, of course, but I need someone to list on the paperwork that can make appearances at meetings if needed and that can take inspectors around to approve the club when it's ready, that kind of thing. As understanding as most residents of this city are about eccentric people that might be wearing masks and all, I don't think the city inspectors would appreciate being led around by someone that appeared to be wearing a costume."

"I can see your point," Willow admitted as she ran a hand through her hair. "I suppose you've had to do this before, haven't you?"

He smiled, "Caritas was officially owned by my accountant. His name was on the lease and the insurance, but it was my club. I trusted him just as I trust you."

"Why me?" she had to ask. "You've known Faith and Gunn longer."

"Well, Faith has the problem of being an escaped convict," Lorne said with a laugh, adding, "oh, I know you went in and managed to lose her files in the system, but she still has a record. That could be a problem for the real estate company, not to mention the ownership of the club. As for Charles, well, I hope we can convince him to remain with us here in our new home, but there is no guarantee that he won't go back to LA at anytime. Besides, I'm hoping you'll help me manage the new place and it wouldn't hurt to have you on all the legal papers if you're going to be helping with ordering and stuff like that."

"Of course I'll do it," Willow agreed, pleased that he wanted her to help him with the club as well as giving her the responsibility of owning their new house and business.

"Thanks, Cupcake! That's a load off my mind," Lorne said with a smile. "Once we decide on the location, I expect all of you to help me decide what to do with the place. I'm so excited at having the chance to have another club. Running Caritas was such fun, and I really enjoyed it. But I think I want something even better."

"I'm sure we can come up with something that will knock your socks off," Willow said with a smile. "Once we find out where it's going to be, we can have a brainstorming party. Do you think we can persuade Gunn to stay with us? It's kind of nice having a surrogate big brother around."

"I doubt it will take much arm twisting," Lorne said confidently, "he hasn't been happy in LA for the last few months. So, what did you think of that huge house Henry was trying to sell us?"

"Honestly?" Willow couldn't contain her excitement, "It looked perfect! I loved his description of it, and it was close to where I might be working and I really liked that the business was attached to the house because it's much more convenient and easier to keep an eye on and all those rooms sound unreal. And it has a courtyard and balconies which is just too fantastic."

"Not impressed at all, were you?" Lorne said in amusement.

"Oh, you, hush," Willow laughed as she rolled her eyes. "Like I said, though, I'm waiting until I see it before I say for sure. I'll know when we find the right place, and maybe that is it or maybe it isn't."

"Well, we'll find out tomorrow so I guess we don't have to wait very long," Lorne said as he got to his feet. "I think I might raid the kitchen with you girls. That is, if Sweetness has left anything in the fridge!"

"She's so funny," Willow laughed as she walked into the hallway, "she really seems to be wanting to make up for years of bad prison food."

"Can't say I blame her, especially if it's as gross as hospital food," Lorne wrinkled his nose and shuddered.

"Are y'all hungry?" Faith asked as they entered the kitchen. She gestured at the stuff on the cabinet, smiling as she said, "Markine said we could eat whatever we wanted."

"I could eat something," Willow said as she watched Faith continue to create one of the largest sandwiches she had ever seen. Laughing, she caught Lorne's eye and echoed his early words, "Markine is so going to rue the night she gave Faith carte blanche in her kitchen!"

Faith's only response was a wink and smug smile as she finished making the sandwich and placed it on the cabinet for Willow before moving to make one for Lorne.

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

"I think I'm in love!"

Willow had to laugh at Faith's exclamation as they followed Henry into the courtyard. She had to agree. It was beautiful and they hadn't even seen the inside yet. She had wondered as they had walked down the street and found themselves standing in front of a rather plain black door. It had opened to reveal the beautiful courtyard in which they were now standing. She smiled at Faith, "I think I second that. This place is gorgeous!"

"It's got a fountain," Faith pointed out excitedly. "And tables and chairs and trees and pretty flowers and stones and..."

"Someone give me a tranq gun so I can get her to shut up," Gunn said with a snicker as he watched the slayer bouncing around like she had had too much caffeine.

"Love you too, Chuck," Faith said sweetly as she flipped him off, before looking at Henry, "can we see inside now, huh? Can we?"

"Would you like to see the house first or the club?" Henry asked, amused at the girl's reaction.

"The house!" four voices answered before laughing.

"The house it is," Henry moved to the door to the house and unlocked it. "This staircase will take you into the living room."

"This is so cool," Gunn said as he started up the stairs.

"Holy shit!" Faith's voice reached them as they walked up the stairs. The enthusiastic slayer had reached the landing before them.

"What is it, Cupcake?" Lorne asked, his eyes widening as he reached the living room to stand next to her. "Holy shit!"

"I'm hearing that a lot lately," Willow laughed, a look of awe crossing her face as she looked around the house. "Oh, wow."

"This place is great!" Gunn said, smiling at them. "All this stuff comes with it?"

"Completely furnished," Henry said, having had a similar reaction the first time he had stepped foot into the house.

"I can't even describe it," Faith said, shaking her head. "I mean, it's all so expensive looking but homey at the same time. This guy must have paid out the ass for decorators. This is like something out of a magazine!"

"Mr. Lorpioni had excellent taste and the ability to pay for what he wanted," Henry smiled. "He enjoyed decorating and gave each room a theme of sorts. These main areas, the kitchen, living room and library, he wasn't as particular with, wanting something comfortable and welcoming."

"This is the bad part?" Gunn looked at the man in surprise. He wasn't too into interior design, but this place was beyond his imagination.

"Themes? What kind of themes?" Willow asked, smiling at the idea of theme rooms. She was in love with this house already, knew immediately upon entering that it was the right place for them. It was eclectic and special and just seemed to suit them all perfectly.

"I'll show you," Henry smiled, having known that this group would appreciate the house. He led them towards Royal Street, "this is one of the four large bedrooms. The other located on this floor faces the courtyard. Mario called this Arabian Nights."

"This is my room," Lorne said as he entered, a large smile crossing his face as he took in the bright multi-colored curtains and rugs.

"It's like a sultan's palace," Faith said with amazement. She shook her head, looking at Henry. "I want to see the others!"

Henry took them on a tour of the second floor, showing them the kitchen and dining area as well as the library on their way to the other end of the home and the second bedroom. Opening the door, he smiled "This is a Cup of Java."

"No, this is my room," Gunn said as he smiled, his dark eyes taking in the space. Dark brown, caramel, creams. It looked like something he might have ordered at Starbucks, and he loved it. It was definitely a man's room, he decided. The bed was also a king size, covered in shades of brown just like the rest of the room.

"Brown is so boring," Faith whined, smirking suddenly as she said, "Guess it does suit you, Charles."

"No fair," Willow spoke up with a smile, "the guys have their rooms already picked out."

Henry laughed as he showed them the staircase that was outside of the Coffee room. "Well, why don't we head upstairs and see what we can find for you girls."

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

The group climbed the stairs to the third floor. Once they were there, Henry showed them the open area that was to the left of the stairs. It was currently the location of a couch and a table, but would be perfect for an entertainment area for this floor. It had a door that opened out to a balcony that overlooked the courtyard. Beneath it was the second floor bathroom so there would be no one to disturb if there was late night television watching. He then took them to the corner room that also overlooked the courtyard, "This was Mario's Mardi Gras room. It's one of the smaller rooms, as you can tell."

"It's pretty neat," Faith decided as she took in the bright purple, green and gold colors. Masks hung from the walls and it was a very festive room. Too much activity for her personally.

"Next door, we have Peaches N Cream," Henry showed them the second of the three smaller rooms. "I think you can understand why it has that name."

"It's pretty," Willow said, her eyes looking at the peach colored walls and cream trim. Looked a little too much like ice cream to her, but it was a lovely shaded room.

"The other small room is across the hall beside the bathroom," Henry opened the door, "the Blue Room. It was the last room completed and I suppose Mario was tired of thinking of cute names."

"Not bad," Gunn looked at the room, noticing that nearly every possible shade of blue appeared to have been used in the comforter. The walls were a nice dark blue, the trim a bit lighter. It would have been his second choice if he hadn't already picked the Coffee room downstairs.

"Across the hall in the corner we have Victorian Romance," Henry said, opening the door to the third larger room. "It overlooks Royal Street."

"This is mine," Faith said with a small smile as she walked inside. It was beautiful. Rose color on the wall, flowers everywhere, a canopy. She turned to glare at Gunn, warning, "Don't say a word!"

"Who, me?" he said innocently, finding it amusing that the tough slayer wanted the most feminine room of all.

"It's so girly girl," Faith said with a sigh, confessing, "I adore it!"

"Well, then, let's see what's left for me," Willow smiled at the slayer, not at all surprised that Faith wanted to flowery room. The slayer wasn't nearly as tough as she liked to pretend.

"I think you'll love it," Henry admitted. "Mario called it Sherwood Forest, and I thought of it as soon as I met you."

"This is definitely great," Willow agreed with Henry when she walked across the hall to look at the large room. The walls were a lovely shade of dark green, her favorite color, and the furnishings were all dark wood. The bed was huge and looked like something out of a castle from some movie. A large desk was beside a window and there were doors that opened to the balcony above Royal Street. She moved to the doors, pointing out, "Look, Faith. It goes between both our rooms!"

"This is just fucking amazing," Faith declared as she looked at the others. "If I believed in such things, I'd say it was fate that led us to this house."

"I guess we're just lucky, Cupcake," Lorne smiled.

"There is a door between the bathroom and the Blue Room that leads up to the attic," Henry mentioned as they walked past. "As I said before, the attic could easily be converted into a room of some sort. Mario used it for storage and for his exercise equipment."

"Training and research," Willow said with a wink at Faith. A slaying room.

When they were downstairs again, Henry showed them a door that led to a staircase that would take them to the club downstairs and the Royal Street entrance. They followed him down, ready to look at the club.

"What was here previously?" Lorne asked as he looked around the black walls of the club.

"It was a fetish club," Henry replied, "hasn't been used for a couple of years though."

"A fetish club?" Willow looked around with curiosity, "and the neighbors didn't complain?"

"Not at all. Your only neighbor is Andrews Antiques and they close at five daily, so they're not disrupted by late night club goers. And they don't find the noise disturbing, so you have nothing to worry about. The Andrews are very nice people, locals since birth. Nothing tends to faze them, you'll find."

"So, what do you kids think?" Lorne asked, knowing their answer. They'd already picked out bedrooms, so now it was the formality of paperwork and payment.

"Do you have to ask?" Faith rolled her eyes as she laughed.

"We can discuss the details back at the hotel," Lorne told Henry, having already mentioned to the agent that everything would be put in Willow's name. The agent had agreed with his logic, thinking it a good idea for the human witch to be on the deed.

"How long do you think it will be before we can officially own this place?" Faith asked, eager to move in.

"We should have everything arranged within a week," Henry said, knowing that most sales took longer, but also knowing that Mario wouldn't be all that particular. The demon had seemed excited the previous night when he had learned who was looking at his house, liking the idea that another demon would be moving in. As long as the check cleared and everything was properly filed, they should have the keys by the middle of next week, if not sooner.

"Kick ass," Gunn said with a smile, glad that he had decided to stay awhile longer. He was excited at the idea of turning this dark ugly club into a fun place like Caritas. And the house? It was unreal.

"We can stop and get some lunch on the way back to the hotel," Faith suggested with a smile. "I'm starving since we ate breakfast so early!"

"And it was a small breakfast," Willow smiled at the slayer, "I could use some lunch. Lorne?"

"Could you just bring me something back?" Lorne asked.

"Actually, why don't we just get take out?" Willow said. "I need to sign any paperwork that Henry has, and we can go out to eat tonight to celebrate getting the new house."

"Sounds like a plan," Faith said as the group left the house by the Royal Street exit, walking back to the hotel as they discussed their favorite parts of the new house as well as what they wanted to get for lunch.

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

They arrived back at the hotel with lunch, eager to sign the paperwork necessary to purchase the house and business they had recently toured. Faith sat beside Willow, watching as the redhead signed her name to various documents. She thought it was pretty cool that Lorne had asked Willow to put everything in her name. She knew that the demon hadn't known the redhead very long so it had meant a lot to Willow that he trusted her so much. Faith was also very pleased that she hadn't been asked to take that responsibility. She was lucky if she could take care of herself, much less own property. Nah, that was a bit too grown up for at this point in her life. She'd rather sit back and enjoy the new house without having to worry about deeds and legal jargon.

"Would you stop trying to read over my shoulder?" Willow asked, arching a brow as she glared at the grinning slayer.

"I'm not," Faith said honestly, "but it bugs you, doesn't it?"

"Eat, slayer," Willow said, rolling her eyes as Faith laughed.

"Eating isn't as much fun as bugging you, Red," Faith winked at Lorne who was watching them with amusement.

"Sugar bear, you'd better not push her," Lorne warned with a smile. "She might decide to not let you live in her new house."

"Whatever," Faith rolled her eyes, "Red loves me. She wouldn't leave me homeless."

"Want to bet?" Willow muttered as she went back to reading the forms she was signing.

"You know what?" Gunn asked after he finished his last bite.

"No I don't but I met someone named Who in jail," Faith said with a smirk. "Who's this what guy?"

"No more sugar for the slayer," Lorne decided, knowing that they shouldn't have let Faith eat the entire bag of chocolate she'd bought at the candy store next to the café where they had picked up their lunch. She was hyper enough without the added stimulant. And, at the moment, it looked like Gunn and Willow were both considering smacking her.

"No fair!" Faith whined, glaring at the demon. She reached over the table and pinched one of his horns softly before blowing him a raspberry. "You guys just aren't fun! I mean, we've found our dream house and we haven't even been in two forty-eight hours. Life is pretty damn good at the moment and I'm happy. I've got great friends with me and a new house that is out of this world and it's a great town and there's great food all over the place and people don't look at me with suspicion and hate!"

"Pouting doesn't become you, slayer," Willow said as her lips twisted into a slight smile. "We won't have that wonderful house if I don't get all these papers filled out."

"After that, can we have some fun?" Faith asked eagerly, wanting to go out and celebrate and dance and flirt. It had been forever since she'd been to a club, her mind flashing to her first few days in LA before she'd turned herself in and gone directly to jail without passing Go. It hadn't been that fun because she'd been alone. Now, she had friends. People that really did like her, that didn't judge her or think she was evil. She could be herself and know they'd still be there for her. It was the best that she could ever remember feeling.

"If you quit fidgeting and let me get this stuff finished, then, yes, we can go have some fun," Willow agreed.

"Woo hoo!" Faith beamed, doing a little dance in her chair as she looked at Gunn. "Hey, Chuck, what were you going to tell us?"

"I was going to tell you that I'm not going back to LA yet. I've decided to stay in New Orleans for awhile," he said, adding, "Someone needs to keep an eye on you girls, after all."

"Girls?" Lorne raised a brow as he glared at the black man.

"If the shoes fits," Gunn smirked, snickering as Lorne rolled his eyes though a smile crossed the demon's face.

"You just don't want to leave us," Faith sang to him, "you love us and you'd miss us and you want to live with us."

"Faith, shut up or I'll make you stay in tonight and watch the Discovery channel!" Willow warned as she turned a page in the stack of paperwork she had to read and sign.

"Fine, spoil all my fun, Red. You owe me," Faith said, smiling wickedly as she continued, "I'm thinking that I get to pick out your clothes tonight. Lots of skin and sexy Mama."

"If it gets you to shut up finally, then you can pick out my clothes," Willow groaned, glaring at the slayer. "But I get veto power!"

"Hot damn! A club with Chuck and Lorne and a hot sexy mama," Faith laughed as Willow glared at her again. "Fine, this is me shutting up!"

"Are you sure you want to stay?" Lorne asked Gunn with a smile.

He nodded, a slow smile crossing his face as he said,, "Yeah, I really do."

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

"Finished," Willow said in relief as she signed the last paper and handed the stack to Henry.

"It's about time," Faith said, having had to be quiet for nearly twenty minutes as the redhead had carefully read every single paper.

"I'll take everything to my office and start the process," Henry said with a smile. "I expect to have an answer by next week. If I hear anything soon, I'll let you know."

"Thanks for everything, Henry," Lorne said with a grateful smile as he shook the human's hand.

"So, tonight we celebrate?" Willow asked the group.

"I think that's the plan, Red," Gunn said, feeling good about his decision to remain in New Orleans for awhile. Of course, that meant he needed to call Angel and have the vampire send him some of his stuff. He was running out of clothes, knew that tomorrow would be laundry day. He'd already discussed it with Faith and Willow, making plans for a breakfast of beignets and then the wonderful task of doing laundry.

"And I get to choose your clothes," Faith gloated as she smiled at the redhead.

"I don't recall agreeing to that," Willow said innocently, looking at Lorne and Gunn. "Did either of you hear me say that Faith could choose my clothes?"

"I didn't hear anything, Cupcake," Lorne said with a wink at the redhead.

"Me either," Gunn smirked at the annoyed slayer. "Guess that chocolate messed with her head."

"Yeah, ha ha, real funny," Faith rolled her eyes before looking at Willow with fear, "You are joking, right? Cause the only reason I've been sitting here semi patiently is because I want to get you into something tight and sexy and short."

"I don't own anything tight or sexy or short," Willow laughed as she gave in to Faith's worried expression, "but feel free to look through my clothes and find something that meets your approval. Oh God, what am I thinking? Letting Faith control my wardrobe?"

"It's okay, honey," Lorne said as he leaned over the table and patted the redhead's hand, "we all make mistakes sometimes in life."

"Again with the hardy har fucking har," Faith said, deciding that she'd repay Willow by making her wear something she'd never normally wear. She was thinking tight short shirt and leather skirt. She frowned as she realized the redhead was right. She didn't own anything except long flowy skirts and jeans and shirts that were usually a size too large. Okay, so the girl had gotten better taste through the years and actually wore clothes that fit now, there wasn't anything that tight or overtly sexy. Willow had a quiet sexiness that extended into her clothes. She smiled suddenly as another idea struck her, "I pass on choosing tonight! I want to reserve my opportunity to dress you for a later date."

"You want to reserve your opportunity?" Willow had to laugh, "You're nuts. But, sure, whatever. You can pick some other night. Guys, remind me not to leave the house ever again after tonight just in case Faith decides to use that as her selection time."

"I'm living with a bunch of comedians," Faith remarked dryly. She'd now have to try to save some money up to buy something sexy and tight and perfect to transform Willow into one sexy hot mama for an evening of clubbing and flirting and dancing. Faith liked having goals!

"Lorne, sorry to interrupt, but you received this at the front desk," Markine handed over an envelope to her old friend before leaving the room.

"What is it?" Willow asked, curious as to who had sent Lorne something.

"It appears to be an invitation," Lorne said as he read the fancy engraved card. "We've all been requested to attend a dinner tomorrow evening with the master of New Orleans."

"You're joking, right?" Faith asked, looking at the demon with dismay in her brown eyes.

"No, it would appear that it's serious," Lorne said thoughtfully. "A formal invitation, though I doubt there is much choice in the matter."

"Man, I'm not going to meet some master for dinner. Hell, we'd be probably be dinner," Gunn said, shaking his head. "Count me out."

"Charles, I don't think the master would request our presence for a meeting if he had plans to murder us," Lorne said. "I'm sure it's a formality of some sort. A lot of masters of larger cities like to know who is moving to their area. This guy is probably no different. That's the way they remain master, by knowing what is happening to their city."

"Can I see it?" Willow asked, taking the invitation. She read it and had to agree with Lorne, "It sounds pretty simple. He wants to meet us, to welcome us to his town. I figure he wants to make sure we're not going to be a threat. I mean, it isn't every day that a slayer moves to town. He wants to check out things and make sure you're not going to start going after his people."

"Where's the fun in that?" Faith asked, making a face. "How can I be feared if I'm meeting with the local master and letting him know that I only attack the idiots that are trying to kill people?"

"You'll still be feared, honey," Willow said with a slight smile. "I don't really think we have a choice. This invitation is nice and polite. If we refuse, well, he wouldn't have gotten to be a master if he didn't know how to play rough. I don't want enemies here."

"Me either," Faith agreed, sighing. "I guess we go tomorrow to meet this dude and check things out. Hey, wait, it said dinner?"

"Well, I'll go if you go," Gunn said though he wasn't happy at the idea of going to meet some dangerous vampire master. "But I'm not happy about it."

"He's set the meeting at a restaurant which is a public place," Willow said thoughtfully. "That makes me think that this isn't some big plan to try to kill us. I'm with Lorne on this. I think he probably just wants to check us out, see if we're a threat. Once he sees that we have no interest in fighting him unless he's trying to destroy the world or bring about Hell on Earth, well, he'll leave us alone which is a good thing."

"A very good thing," Faith agreed. "And, hey, dinner! That's definitely of the good."

"I suppose that we're all in agreement then?" Lorne asked as he watched them all nod. "Okay, then. I'll call the number and confirm our attendance tomorrow evening."

"While he takes care of that, I'm hitting the shower," Gunn said as he got up from the table. "When are we heading out for dinner and the club?"

"About eight?" Willow suggested.

"Sounds good," Faith said, "we can shower and change too."

"It's a plan," Gunn said as he left to go upstairs to his room.

"I'll make the call and see you girls at eight in the lobby," Lorne said as he followed Gunn upstairs.

"Want to go sit out in the courtyard?" Willow asked, not ready to go upstairs yet. It was a nice day despite the humidity and she felt like crashing and just enjoying it after having such a busy day.

"Sure," Faith agreed, picking up her soda and following the redhead out to the courtyard to kill time until they needed to get ready for the celebratory evening out with their friends.

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

"What does one wear to a dinner with the master of New Orleans?" Faith asked as she looked at the few clothes she had packed into her bag. It was really pathetic that she didn't own more than what was currently stuffed into the rather medium sized bag.

"A turtleneck might not be a bad idea," Willow suggested with a smile. She was having a good day so far. They had gone out the previous night, finding a nice jazz club that had good music and lots of people. They'd just sat around talking for hours, dancing a bit, and having a good time. By the time they'd arrived back at their hotel, they'd been exhausted. Everyone had slept late, meeting for beignets and coffee at Cafe du Monde shortly before noon. After that, she, Faith and Gunn had done laundry. They really owed Markine a lot. The demon had put them in touch with Henry who had showed them their dream home, she was letting them have three rooms for a very cheap price, they had free access to the kitchen which, with Faith, was a monumental experience, and she let them use her laundry room for free. Yep, Willow was thinking she definitely deserved an invitation to the house warming party they were planning once they owned their new house.

"I don't have anything that screams out dinner with a vampire," Faith mumbled, looking at her clothes. "All I've got is stuff that screams out looking for a fuck, interested?"

"They aren't that bad!" Willow laughed, having to sort of agree with the slayer. Faith's clothing taste tended to run to tight and low cut. The term easy came to the redhead's mind. Of course, Buffy had also liked low cut and short skirts. Maybe it was a slayer thing.

"Leather is good, isn't it?" Faith asked, pulling out her favorite well-worn pair of black leather pants. They fit her like a second skin and she looked damn good wearing them, but they were also good for impromptu slaying, just in case this master guy was a threat.

"Vampires appreciate leather," Willow nodded solemnly, "Angelus always liked it, at least. Spike wasn't a leather kind of guy, though. He was much more comfortable in worn denim and cotton. Jeans and a T-shirt all the way."

"Really?" Faith glanced at the redhead, stretching out the word as a thoughtful look crossed her pretty face. She felt like playing with Willow for a bit, knowing exactly what to say to get some teasing going.

"Why do you say it like that?" Willow asked, arching a brow as she looked at the slayer.

"Like what?" Faith said innocently, her lips curving into a slight smile at Willow's defensive tone.

"I happened to notice that he liked to wear jeans and plain shirts," Willow said with a frown at the slayer. "I also happened to notice that Angelus always wore tight leather and silk shirts. I didn't hear you saying anything about *that*."

"Red, I didn't say anything at all," Faith gloated, loving how she could get a reaction from Willow with just one word.

"It's never what you say, it's how you say it," Willow grumbled, not liking the speculative look on Faith's face. "What did you mean by really?"

"I just found it odd how your voice softened when you started talking about your favorite bleached blond souled vamp," Faith said with a smile. She lowered her voice and batted her eyes as she breathily repeated, "Spike is more of a jeans and T-shirt kind of vamp."

"Whatever. I so didn't say it like that," Willow rolled her eyes, "Spike is a friend of mine. My voice did not soften. And he's the only bleached blond vampire we know, souled or otherwise, so his being my favorite isn't much of a challenge."

"Okay, fine," Faith turned back to her bag, almost laughing at Willow's reaction. She'd had suspicions that the redhead had a bit of a crush on the vampire as far back as when she had first arrived in Sunnydale. When she had come back recently, finding Spike working with them, well, her suspicions had come back as she had watched Willow around the blond. It was all subtle little things that probably meant nothing, but it sure was fun to tease Red. She loved getting a reaction out of her friend, but it wasn't very easy to do. It looked like she had picked the perfect topic, making a note to remember that Willow was defensive when it came to Spike. Interesting.

"He's my friend, Faith," Willow said even though she knew the words were rather weak. She'd had a crush on Spike since she had looked into his eyes that Halloween night so many years ago. She didn't even hold the disgusting Buffy sex thing against him, having decided that everyone deserves a moment of stupidity in their lives. But, it had been a silly little crush that had pretty much faded over the years. They'd actually become friends and she'd much rather have him as a friend than a crush. He really wasn't that bad of a guy once you got to know him. Of course, he'd left with a see ya around and that had been that. She just didn't want Faith to get the wrong idea, knowing she'd never hear the end of the teasing if the slayer found out she had once had a crush on the handsome vampire. She added, "just the same as you or Angel or Lorne."

"You wanted him, Red," Faith gave Willow a pointed look. "Look me in the eyes and deny it and I'll forget I even mentioned it."

"I can't deny that, at one time many, many years ago, I had a bit of a crush," Willow finally admitted, "but it was a long time ago and it never meant anything. I mean, I had a crush on Angel and Xander, too. I'm just a crush having kind of girl."

"I knew it," Faith smiled in triumph, "I knew you wanted Blondie. Man, I surprise myself with how good I am!"

"You're impossible!" Willow groaned, rolling her eyes.

"Yeah, but you love me anyway. Don't worry, Red. I just wanted you to tell me the truth, cause I doubt you ever mentioned it to Slutty and I wanted to know something she never knew," Faith said with a wink. "It's already forgotten."

"Really?" this time it was Willow's turn to question the slayer. She smiled slightly as she said, "Well, just to make sure we're even, why don't you tell me about one of yours."

"Mine?" Faith's eyes widened slightly before she glared at the redhead. "Fine, I wanted to fuck Fang at one point in time, many years ago I might add. Now, we're even. We both wanted to do the nasty with our favorite souled vamps. Hell, I'll go you one even worse than Fang. I wanted Wesley not three months ago. Damn, that man got hot! The whole rough thing so works for him. Red, you better not say a word. Don't tell anyone or I'll..."

"Or you'll what?" Willow taunted, having always been a bit suspicious of Faith's feelings for Angel. She couldn't blame the slayer. As she had admitted, she'd once had a crush on the dark haired vampire herself. She thought it was rather cute that Faith had felt the same way at one point. But Wesley? Okay, so maybe Faith was a bit right in her observations. The prissy watcher had certainly changed over the years, but it was a bit amusing to think that Faith had been interested. That was something she could always use if the slayer tried to tease her about her passing crush on Spike.

"I'll tickle you until you pee your pants," Faith finished as she pounced on the unsuspecting redhead, grabbing the laughing redhead as she decided it would be better for both of them to forget that this conversation had ever taken place. Dressing for dinner could wait. Right now, she had a witch to tickle.

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

Faith decided on the leather pants and a red shirt that was probably too tight for a formal meeting with a master, but she could plead ignorance since she wasn't accustomed to dining with master vampires that she didn't know. Willow was wearing some long flowing skirt that had little flowers on it paired with a simply white shirt. The skirt concealed her long legs but it accentuated the girl's slim waist. The shirt, Faith was proud to see, actually fit the redhead rather well, molding curves that most of her clothes hid completely. Faith wasn't pleased with the skirt, but decided it was good enough for some stupid vampire. She looked up when she heard someone enter the lobby, letting out a whistle when she saw Lorne and Gunn. "Wow, guys, you clean up nice."

"Shut up, Slayer," Gunn said, rolling his eyes at her mock leer. He glanced at her, having to say, "Hope you didn't get so dressed up for us."

"Chuck, GQ works on you better if you keep your mouth shut," Faith said sweetly, her eyes moving over the dark gray slacks and black sweater that Gunn was wearing. She'd never seen him out of jeans and a shirt and had to admit that he wasn't that bad looking, at least, until he opened his mouth and ruined the whole image.

"I think you look adorable, Sweetness," Lorne told Faith as he winked at her. He knew the slayer wasn't very into attending this meeting, had probably worn a hole in the carpet with her pacing, and was more nervous than she wanted to admit at willingly going to a meeting set up by a master vampire. He looked at Willow, smiling as he looked at her, "You look beautiful, Cupcake."

"I love that shade of red on you," Willow told the demon as she admired his suit, laughing as he waved away her compliment. She glanced at Faith then whispered loudly to Lorne, "Faith hates my skirt."

"I never said that," Faith defended, though she had to smile.

"You grimaced when you saw it," Willow said dryly. "I'm sure it's not short enough or tight enough for you, but I like it!"

"And that's all that matters, Red," Gunn said, grinning at the slayer who was glaring at them both. "I think it looks smashing."

"Smashing?" Faith repeated, making a face. "I never said I didn't like it. It looks good on you. Of course, most things look good on you, even the baggy old skirts."

"See?" Willow beamed in triumph, winking at Lorne before telling Faith, "it's not very old and it's not baggy. It's just long and comfortable. Plus, I can run pretty fast when wearing it, just in case this master guy is all evil and nasty."

"I think I'm liking it better," Faith smiled, glad that she wasn't the only one with reservations about this meeting. And the skirt was better than the fuzzy sweaters the redhead used to wear.

"I believe that we will all need to be on alert tonight," Lorne admitted, having not been able to get any clues about this master from Markine or from the short phone conversation he'd had with an annoying woman when he'd called to RSVP the day before. "I haven't heard anything to give me an idea that this is anything other than just a meeting, but it doesn't hurt to be cautious."

"I agree," Willow nodded, "I mean, can you see Angelus sending out dinner invitations to a slayer and a demon if they moved to town? I'm thinking this guy is either planning something or he's not like any master we've ever met."

"Hey, I survived a fight with the Beast, barely, and Angelus, and I really doubt this dude would be as bad as that," Faith said, trying for confidence. She was rewarded by a smile from Willow and a nod from the guys. She was glad that they trusted her, believed she could take this guy if he was a threat or die trying. And she would. She'd do anything for her friends, even face some psychotic vampire. Hopefully, it would turn out like Willow and Lorne thought, and it would just be a simple meeting to reassure this master guy that they weren't planning on starting any fights with his family.

"We can take care of ourselves if he wants to play," Gunn said with a defiant glint in his eyes.

"Well, we'll never know if we keep standing here and talking about it," Willow declared with a smile.

"Yeah, we should go ahead and leave," Lorne said as he glanced at his watch. "We've got less than half an hour and I'm not sure where this café is located exactly."

"We don't want to be late," Faith decided, knowing it sounded stupid but she wanted to make a good impression on the chance that this master guy was harmless. Wouldn't be smart to offend him or make an enemy out of him if that wasn't his intention.

"I think I remember passing it on our way to breakfast this morning," Gunn said. "It's on Decatur, right?"

"Yes," Lorne nodded as he glanced at the address he had been given the previous night. "Luc Pierre's Café. It does sound familiar, now that you mention it."

"That's such a pretentious name for a restaurant," Faith decided. "Probably a fortune for a small plate with hardly any food. I hate overpriced snotty places like that."

"Or maybe it's just the owner's name and it's lots of food for small prices," Willow said with a laugh. "Again, we won't know if we keep standing here putting off leaving."

"C'mon, Red," Gunn offered Willow his arm, giving her a wink as she took it, "I really don't want to be around the slayer if she finds out there isn't enough food on her plate."

"Ha ha ha," Faith snorted as smiled at Lorne, taking his arm as they followed Willow and Gunn outside in the warm night air.

"If we like this master guy, we'll just be sure to whisper to him that the best way to keep Faith happy is to feed her well," Willow said with a wink at Faith before giggling.

"I'm so glad that my friends find me so amusing," Faith groaned as she listened to her friends laughing at her expense, finally giving in and joining them as they made their way to their meeting with the master of New Orleans.

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

Spike was ready to leave. He'd been in Houston for several days, setting a bit of a record. He wasn't having a bad time, finding the spare room a nice change from sleeping on a sofa or in his car. He wasn't even tired of his friends, yet, finding that he actually liked spending time with them in small doses. In more than small doses, well, then Houston seemed to become his own private Hell. So, small doses it had been since his arrival. He'd relaxed, spent time sleeping and drinking and just having some fun. He'd forgotten how to have fun over the last few years. He was becoming an expert at pool, knowing he could now probably beat the pants of Angelus at the one human sport his sire had enjoyed playing. He just knew that it was about time to leave. He was already starting to feel restless, looking at his car and checking maps. New Orleans was his next destination, maybe the place he'd finally settle down. It had felt right, somehow, since he'd decided to go to the port city.

He wouldn't be leaving until after the weekend. There were some things planned for this weekend, a party or two, and a program that he wanted to watch on the telly Sunday evening. Monday, perhaps, he'd go ahead and leave. He was getting tired of not having somewhere to call home. He was also getting tired of being alone. He'd never been a loner, staying with Drusilla for years not only because he had been devoted to his true sire, but because he hadn't wanted to be alone. Hell, he'd shagged that brainless twit Harmony just to have someone around, though that had to be the most desperate he'd ever been. Thinking about Buffy, he amended that thought. Slayer first, then Harmony. At least there had been some sort of reasonable explanation for having Harmony around. She'd had minions he'd been able to use. There was no real explanation for his feelings for the slayer. That had just been temporary insanity on his part. It was the only thing he'd accept.

"You still planning on going to New Orleans?"

Spike was brought from his thoughts as he looked at the Hiruton demon that he'd met at the bar a few days earlier. They'd shared a beer or two and a game of pool. He nodded, "Yeah, mate. What of it?"

"Well, I just wanted to tell you, give you a warning," Benny smiled at the vampire, "You'll have to know, New Orleans is a bit *different*."

"Different how?" Spike asked, curious despite himself.

"The master there is weird," Benny made a gesture beside his head to indicate crazy. "He's got all these rules you've got to abide by or he don't let you stay in his town."

"Rules?" Spike frowned, not at all sure he wanted to deal with some nutter that had rules. "What sort of rules?"

"You've got to check in with him within twenty-four hours of arrival or he finds you, which isn't a very good thing if you were aware that you should have checked in and just didn't," Benny ticked off a finger, "there's no feeding on tourists and that sort of thing."

"Doesn't sound all that bad," Spike decided, knowing there was no problem with him feeding on tourists or anyone for that matter.

"Just giving you a warning. It's not like your normal town. A nice place to visit, but I wouldn't want to live there," Benny shuddered at the thought of living with so many restrictions and rules.

"Well, I'm just planning a visit," Spike said, making a mental note to find the master and check in as suggested. He didn't like the idea of being found and brought in to face a disapproving bastard. Maybe staying in New Orleans wasn't such a good idea after all. He'd have to wait and see. He didn't know Benny all that well so the demon could just be overreacting.

"It's a great place to visit," Benny nodded enthusiastically, "all sorts of fun to be had. Smells of magic and death, lots of your kind hanging around. They've got these clubs where you can feed on willing humans, no drugs or forcing at all. Just a bunch of mindless college kids mostly that get turned on from the bite. Bunch of nuts in that town. I can walk around looking like this and hardly get any second glances. Tourists everywhere. Nope, I couldn't live there, but it's nice for a vacation."

"Sounds lovely," Spike said dryly, wanting to go back to his game.

"Yeah, well, wait until you hear all the damn rules," Benny muttered, "takes all the fun out of it, but what can you do? You obey them and be glad you're alive. Just thought I'd let you know to check in and all, figured you didn't know about that since he's one of the masters that insists on the formality."

"I thank you for the information," Spike said as he lined up his shot and moved, hitting the red ball into the corner pocket before looking back at Benny. "Was there something else?"

"Hmm?" Benny shook his head, knowing that the blond vampire before him had his soul but finding him just as frightening as if he hadn't. Plus, he'd heard that Spike had no problems fighting demons that annoyed him or that he decided were evil and needed to die, having quite a legendary reputation as a ruthless demon hunter amongst the demon world. Spike might be souled, but he was still powerful and scary. He elaborated, "Nope, nothing. I'll just let you get back to your game."

"See ya," Spike said as he turned his attention back to his game, deciding to ask around a bit to find out more about this rule-making master of New Orleans before he left Houston. It didn't change his plans to go to the city, but it was always best to be prepared. He took another shot, smiling slightly as he won yet another game. Yeah, life was steadily improving.

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

"I guess this is it," Gunn said as he looked into the window, seeing what appeared to be a normal restaurant.

"Doesn't look all that scary," Faith decided, shrugging as she said, "let's go in and meet ourselves a master."

Gunn opened the door, holding it for his three friends before following them inside. He looked around, seeing humans and a couple of demons. Okay, so it wasn't that normal. That actually made him feel a bit relieved to see that it was, indeed, a mixed establishment. This was what he had anticipated. He relaxed slightly as he watched Lorne go to the hostess.

"Yes, hello, I'm meeting someone here but I don't know the name," Lorne explained, feeling a bit stupid for not even knowing the master's name, and hoping that this cute little blonde girl would know who he was.

"Lorne, right?" the girl asked with a smile. "I'm Becky and I'll be seating you today. There should be four, and, it looks like there are. Follow me, please."

"Isn't she just perky?" Willow whispered to Faith, causing the slayer to laugh.

"I'm Faith and I'm going to be slaying you today....think it would work?" Faith asked, having imitated the woman's perky voice and causing Willow to laugh this time.

"Would you two try acting like the adults you are supposed to be?" Lorne asked, glaring at them as he listened to them giggle behind him like a couple of kids.

"Sorry, Daddy," two overly innocent voices called out before two tongues were stuck out at his back.

"I saw that," he warned, rolling his eyes at Gunn as he said, "Girls!"

"Hey, now, that was so a chauvinistic comment, Buster," Faith said, slapping the demon's shoulder. Lorne lurched forward at the force of her easy blow, running into the hostess.

"I'm sorry, Hon," Lorne apologized as he straightened up, about to glare at Faith when he found himself looking into gray eyes. Amused gray eyes. His eyes moved over the man that was seated at the booth, gulping as he took in the black hair that fell past his shoulders, past his broad shoulders. Goodness, was it warm in here?

"I'm sorry, Lorne, I forgot," Faith moved to the demon's side, her eyes sincere as she rubbed his shoulder. She saw him staring in front of him and followed his gaze. Hot damn! Her eyes widened as she took in the tasty morsel that was watching them with amusement. With a smile, she said, "Hey there, good looking, the name's Faith."

Black brows arched as full lips twisted into a smile. A husky laugh came from between his lips as he said, "Ah, the slayer. Brash, beautiful, and unaware of her own strength, I see."

"Brash? Is that a good thing? Cause, if it's not, I can so take your ass," Faith warned, not sure if she liked the fact that the master of New Orleans thought she was beautiful and also not sure if she liked the fact that he seemed more amused than threatened.

He laughed, "Sassy. I like that. My name is Basilio, and I believe that you're my guests for the evening. Please, have a seat."

"Faith, honey, quit flirting with the could be evil sexy master vampire," Willow said dryly as she moved beside Faith. She looked at the gorgeous vampire and had to fight the urge to sigh. He was a total hottie. His eyes were a shade she'd never seen, as gray as a sky during a storm. His hair was dark black and long. His complexion pale, but dark. Italian maybe or Spanish. She couldn't place the origin of the name he had used, but she knew it was European. He had a slight accent, and a very nice laugh. And, from looking into his eyes, he was no more a threat than Xander. She gave him a smile, introducing herself, "I'm Willow. It's nice to meet you, Basilio."

He looked at the beautiful redhead, surprised to see such maturity in her green eyes when she appeared to be so young. She had seen too much of life, he realized. Seen the darkness, embraced it, and moved on. She was surrounded by power, even stronger than the slayer. She smelled of magic and sweetness, of strength and purity. He got to his feet, taking her hand across the table and brushing his lips against it, "Please call me Lio, Bella. It is what my friends call me."

"Lio," Willow repeated with a smile, blushing slightly as he kissed her hand. She'd seen that done in movies but never expected to experience it. He'd also called her Bella. If her memory served her correctly, that was Italian for beautiful. She guessed that meant he was Italian before he had been turned.

"My name's Gunn, and don't even think about kissing my hand, buddy," Gunn said, giving the vampire a narrowed eye look. He wasn't very trusting when it came to vampires, and this guy looked like something out of some movie or book. He was dressed in a white poet shirt and black leather pants. Definitely out of some stupid movie. What was with the clothes? It wasn't Halloween but they definitely seemed like a costume. Gunn was curious but not enough to let his guard down yet.

"I wouldn't dare consider it, Mr. Gunn," Basilio glanced at the black man with amusement. He didn't trust him, he realized. Looking this odd group over, he found himself wondering about them. He had not done any research, preferring to find out for himself rather than look at words on paper. Now, he found himself wishing that he had taken some time to find out about them. He was curious what brought a demon, a slayer, a witch and a hunter together in what appeared to be a family type of relationship. He had seen many things in his five centuries but nothing like this. He found himself looking back at the demon that had first approached his table, a slow smile crossing his face as he looked him over. "I suppose that makes you Lorne."

"Yeah, that's me," Lorne said, knowing that he would have been blushing if it were possible. Had the master of New Orleans just given him a once over? Judging from the smile on the man's too handsome face, he must have passed inspection. It was definitely too warm in here.

Willow's eyes widened slightly as she watched the exchange between Lorne and Lio. Okay, she so hadn't missed that once over nor did she miss the pleased smile. She elbowed Faith, nodding at the two to see if her friend had noticed. Faith rolled her eyes, leaning over to whisper very quietly into her ear.

Faith whined, "Why are most the really good looking ones gay?"

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

Lio heard the slayer's comment, looking down to conceal his laugh. He took his seat before looking back at them and motioning for them to sit down, "Please, sit. We can order our dinner and have a nice little chat."

"Dinner sounds great," Faith said, deciding that she wouldn't have been interested even if the guy had been straight and finding it a relief that the little hand kiss thing with Willow hadn't meant anything. Besides, Lorne deserved a gorgeous guy and this man was definitely a major league hunk. He was also very powerful, her slayer senses on full alert since she'd first seen him. But, he didn't appear to be threatening and he'd mentioned food so she happily slid into the booth to sit beside him.

Willow moved to slide into the other side, knowing that Gunn wouldn't be able to relax and enjoy his meal if he was stuck beside the vampire. He slid in beside her leaving Lorne to sit beside Faith. She picked up the menu, glad to see normal food on the menu as well as some more fancy stuff. She was pretty hungry, having not eaten lunch, but didn't want to eat too much. She decided on a hamburger with cheese and fries, frowning as she contemplated adding a salad to her order.

"Why are you frowning at the menu, Bella? Has it insulted you?" Lio asked, having decided to not scare Lorne by appearing too interested, though he was finding himself just that. He'd turned his attention to the pretty little redhead that had such intelligence and knowledge in her green eyes. He found himself intrigued by her, a bit more than the others.

"No, silly," Willow had to giggle, looking at him as if he were crazy. "I'm trying to decide if I want a salad or not."

"The salads here are delicious. I definitely recommend having one," Lio said with a smile.

"You eat salad?" Faith asked with interest as she looked up from her menu.

"Yes, I do, Sassy," Lio explained to the slayer, "I enjoy the taste of your human food."

"More than the taste of humans?" she asked, giving him a look that gave him no doubt that she hadn't forgotten for once minute that he was a vampire. She also wasn't too sure she liked his nickname for her. She'd only known ten minutes. What gave him the right to give her a nickname? And he had given Willow one, too. Bella. He purred it when he'd said, causing Faith to be even more cautious of him. So he seemed to be interested in Lorne in a non-friendly way, that didn't mean he couldn't decide he also wanted her best friend.

"I rarely feed on humans," Lio shrugged, "after five centuries, you learn to control the hunger and thirst. I've actually not killed a human in half a century, for food or other purposes. I find you humans amusing. I do not kill nor do I become involved with them." He lowered his voice as he moved his mouth to her ear, whispering softly, "That is what you fear, is it not, Sassy? That I have romantic designs on Bella? While I find her truly beautiful and intriguing, I do not take human lovers and have not in well over two centuries. Besides, I've always had a fondness for green."

"Oh," Faith watched him wink at her as his eyes moved to Lorne before he turned his attention back to Willow who had been watching with curiosity. Faith realized that she had just put in her place. Instead of being angry, she felt a smile cross her face. He'd not only confirmed his interest in Lorne but he'd confirmed that he wouldn't hurt Willow. And he didn't kill humans. That was a bit weird, but she believed him. She had to laugh, "Lio, I think you and I are going to get along just fine. What's good here? I'm starving."

"Lio, man, don't answer that," Gunn said, rolling his eyes. It seemed that Willow and Faith both trusted this master guy and he trusted them completely. If Lio was good for them, Gunn could deal with him. Besides, after working with Angel, he was used to dealing with pretty boy vamps. "That tiny little girl can out eat me!"

"Don't listen to Chuck," Faith said, shooting a glare at Gunn before smiling sweetly, "he's just jealous because I'm stronger than he is and he knows I could kick his ass with one hand tied behind my back."

"While that might be true," Gunn said, "the girl can eat!"

"Charles, quit teasing Faith," Lorne spoke up, finally getting out of his daze. He had to have misinterpreted the look that Basilio had given him, knowing he was just being silly. He looked at Faith and said, "Sugar Bear, if he says one more thing about your eating habits, you have my permission to knock him on his cute ass."

"Dude, don't do that," Gunn groaned, laughing at Lorne, "I've told you before not to talk about my ass. I could get a complex or something."

"It is a nice ass, Gunn," Willow said seriously, though her eyes were amused as she patted his arm. "We've all discussed it before and decided that it is truly one of the best asses we've ever seen. Nice and tight and firm."

"Ah, stop it!" Gunn covered his ears, shaking his head. "Lorne, make Red stop!"

"Can't handle a compliment, Chuck?" Faith asked, laughing as the black man started to hum rather than listen to them.

"You girls are like my kid sisters," Gunn said, glaring at Willow and Faith. "I so don't want to hear you talking about my ass! It's like incest or something. And you," he pointed at Lorne, eyes narrowing, "you're supposed to be like the father figure or something. Besides that, you know I'm cool with you swinging that way and all, but it gives the macho side of me a bit of the heebie jeebies to hear you talking about my ass."

"Of course," Lorne snickered, "I am sorry. I'll never speak about your ass again, Muffin."

Basilio had watched the entire exchange with amusement, finding himself liking this group more and more as he got to know them. Despite the subject at hand, there was nothing but caring between the four. He had earlier thought that they seemed like a family, now he had proof that they functioned as such. He watched as Gunn smiled, accepting Lorne's apology. He was also rather happy to hear the news that Lorne, indeed, did share his own preference for sexual partners. He was interested in getting to know the demon more, having been attracted at first sight, and it now seemed much more likely that it might be possible.

"Sorry about that," Willow smiled at the vampire, not believing that only half an hour ago they'd all been scared to even come meet him. Now, she couldn't believe how they'd acted. Well, she did believe it, actually. They were used to dealing with the Hellmouth and the demons of LA, so suspicion and the whole worst case scenario was pretty much part of their life. She was relieved that this time they'd been worried for no reason. Basilio was charming and gorgeous and seemed to have no ulterior motives. He must have just wanted to make sure they weren't a threat. She continued, "We're a bit silly at times, but we've earned it."

"I'm sure you have, Bella," Lio smiled as he saw the flash in her eyes, knowing somehow that they had all probably earned a lot more than the right to be silly once in awhile. He saw the waitress approaching and sat back, ready to place his order and then continue to observe the newest additions to his city.

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

Willow laughed as Lorne finished his story, shaking her head before she took another drink of soda. She couldn't believe that they had been eating for over two hours. Well, not really eating. Mostly sitting around and talking and having a good time. Basilio was excellent company, charming and attractive and intelligent. He had kept them entertained with stories from his past, as well as letting them know how he ran the town. It was amazing how in control he was as Master. There was an entire network set up in New Orleans. He had told them that he had rules and guidelines for the demons that lived in or visited his city. It appeared that visitors had twenty-four hours to check in and state their reason for being in the city. Everything was documented and put into a database that kept records of the comings and goings of all visitors to the area. If a demon failed to report within the twenty-four hour period, someone was sent to collect them. At that time, it was decided if they had not been aware of the rules or if they had willingly chosen to disobey them. If it was the former, all was forgiven and explained. If it was the latter, the true nature of their purpose in New Orleans was determined. If it was proven to be of a not so nice nature, they were given the choice of leaving or dying.

She couldn't ever imagine any of the vampires that she had met running a city in such a way. Of course, as Lio had explained, New Orleans was a tourist spot. They had thousands of tourists a day and it would be all too easy for someone to disappear. That had been the case not fifty years before, when Lio had not yet moved to the city and become master. Deaths had been frequent and the streets had been unsafe. Lio had confessed that it had taken him several decades before his system was actually put into place, before he had people he trusted to make sure it ran smoothly, and it had only been the last decade or so that things had finally come together. Now, the city was under complete control. Lio could print a list of every demon and the location of where they were staying within five minutes. The world knew what to expect if they visited this city, causing the bad element to avoid it. Probably making them go to Sunnydale, Willow thought with a smile, knowing that they rarely got the good element in her hometown. Of course, New Orleans wasn't a Hellmouth so that might be one difference.

"How does she eat so much?" Lio whispered to Willow, his eyes on the many empty plates that covered the table in front of Faith. He'd believed them to be joking earlier when they had mentioned the slayer's appetite. Now, though, he couldn't argue that the small girl had eaten much more than anyone else at the table. He wondered if it was a slayer thing, maybe. He'd never really met a slayer in all his years, though he had heard stories of them. Never had he heard about their need to eat everything in their line of vision.

"She works it off when she's slaying," Willow explained, finding it amusing that he was looking at Faith with a bit of wonder in his eyes. "And she's also making up for being in jail. Jail food sucks so she wasn't too into the eating thing for a couple years."

"Jail?" Lio looked at Willow in surprise. He had not heard of a slayer being in jail.

"I killed a guy," Faith said softly, her eyes clouding as she frowned at her plate. "He was an innocent human. Wrong place, wrong time. I thought he was a vamp and staked him. I turned myself in finally, did my time. I now look before I stake."

"I'm sorry," Lio said quietly, watching as she shook her head, smiling at him as she shrugged.

"Not a problem. Made me grow up, figure out what I really wanted," Faith smiled. "Dealt with it a long time ago. Can't change what happened so there's no use worrying about it. Man, I think I want another slice of cake. That was delicious."

"I killed a man, too," Willow told Lio, believing that it was only fair that they were honest with him. "He wasn't an innocent, though. He was a raping murdering little bastard that deserved everything that I did to him."

"What exactly did you do?" Lio asked, truly shocked that this intelligent and beautiful girl had killed a human. Faith was a surprise but she was a slayer. Slayers were murderers, even if their prey were demons and vampires. Willow, though, seemed so pure but it explained the maturity in her eyes. Things began to make a bit more sense to him when he realized that she had killed.

"I tortured him a bit and then skinned him," Willow said matter of factly as if she had been discussing the weather. She saw Lio's eyes widen in surprise and sighed, "He wasn't a nice person. He killed my lover and nearly killed Buffy, one of my best friends, not to mention who knows what else. I'm not sorry that I killed him. I regret that I allowed myself to lose control the way that I did, that I risked my friends' lives and pretty much nearly destroyed the world, but I'm not sorry that Warren died. I'm okay now, so you don't have to worry about me. I'm completely in control and would never repeat that mistake."

"Damn, if we're confessing our past, I guess I have to let you know that I killed a guy too," Gunn muttered, making a face. "Did it to save my girl and ended up losing her to the man I considered my best friend. God, do we sound enough like some cheesy soap opera?"

"Well," Lorne smiled, deciding to lighten the mood, "we did have the amnesia victim, AKA Cordelia, and the sudden infant growth syndrome ala Conner's visit to another universe."

"You even had the son doing his Dad's girlfriend with that whole gross mess that was Conner and Cordelia and Angel," Faith said, her eyes lit with amusement.

"Don't forget the baby and the possession," Gunn spoke up, shuddering as he made gagging noises.

"Oh, and as much I'd like to forget it, there is the whole Buffy doing Spike thing which is like she was screwing her former lover's grandson in a way which is just gross," Willow made a face, still finding the idea of Buffy and Spike having sex one of the most disgusting things she'd ever had to think about. It just made no sense to her, and it pissed her off that her best friend could use the blond vampire that had been so devoted to her in such a way. Of course, Buffy had always been a selfish bitch so maybe it wasn't all that surprising.

"Eeew," Faith made a face, having heard about that from the redhead. "He could do so much better than that slutty bitch."

"Hey now. That slutty bitch is one of my best friends," Willow defended with a wink. "But, yes, he could have done much better than Buffy or his little drunken encounter with Anya."

"He did Anya too?" Faith's mouth dropped open, having not known about that.

"He never did me, never even tried to do me," Willow said thoughtfully with a frown before she realized how irritated she sounded at the idea that Spike hadn't tried to have sex with her. "I mean, not that I wanted him to do me or anything. Nope, not this girl. Friends is good. Okay, moving on, yeah, he did Anya after Buffy decided to stop using him for sex. It was once and they both seemed to regret it, but it still counts as something else to add to the soap opera that was our lives!"

"Well, we can't forget Robin and his dead Mom and the whole 'you killed my mother prepare to die' crap he kept giving Spike," Faith mentioned, deciding not to gloat at Willow's slip about Spike.

"And we thought our lives were normal!" Willow laughed, rolling her lives. "We so deserve a nice drama free life! No more soap operas."

"Yeah, maybe we can aim for sitcom lives," Gunn added, having to laugh.

"We needed out of California," Faith decided as she licked her finger and ran it over her plate to pick up any spare crumbs. The cake was great and she knew she needed another slice.

"I can certainly see why you were so eager to move here," Lio said with a smile, deciding that he was better off not understanding most of what they had been talking about. Needless to say, it sounded like they had all needed to get away from that ridiculous drama and start over. He had to admit, after getting to know them all a little better, he was glad that they had chosen New Orleans.

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

Faith smiled at Lio, saying, "We might not be 500 years old but we have our own stories!"

"It does sound like it," he smiled back, finding it slightly odd that he liked the slayer. She was confident and arrogant and powerful but also vulnerable in a way that he found interesting. She cared about her friends as if they were part of her, something that he admired greatly. He liked to surround himself with friends and people that he trusted and cared about. It was the only thing that made the eternity worth living. He considered his friends his family and would do anything for any one of them. He had found a kindred spirit in the slayer in that regard. Actually, in all of them. Their loyalty to each other was evident, just as was their affection for each other. Their enthusiasm and happiness was infectious. And, from the sounds of what they had all dealt with in their pasts, they deserved to be happy.

"Lio, my man, can I ask you something that's been bugging me since we sat down?" Gunn asked.

"What would that be, Charles?" Lio asked.

"What's up with your clothes?" Gunn asked, deciding not to bother correcting the vampire yet again about calling him Gunn instead of Charles. "I mean, is it part of your whole master vampire thing or was everything else dirty?"

"My clothes?" Lio looked down, having to laugh as he realized what Gunn meant. "I'm in costume."

"Costume? For what?" Willow asked, having also been a bit curious as to why Lio was dressed in such a stereotypical vampire way.

"My job," Lio replied with a laugh. "I knew I wouldn't have time to change after dinner so I dressed for work. Actually, I insist that you four join me!"

"Work?" Faith looked at him in surprise. "You work?"

"Not for money, Sassy," Lio laughed, "but for enjoyment."

"What is it you do?" Lorne asked, flustered as the vampire shot him what could only be considered a flirty smile.

"I conduct a tour one or two nights a week," Lio said with a smile, "thus, the elaborate costume. I even have a cape that I wear most nights."

"A tour?" Willow leaned forward with interest. "What kind of tour?"

"A vampire tour, Bella," Lio winked. "The tourists have no idea they're being led around by the master vampire of New Orleans, which makes it even more entertaining!"

"You're too much!" Faith laughed, rolling her eyes.

"As I said, you must join me for tonight's tour. It doesn't start until ten, but I promise that you'll enjoy it," Lio said.

"Of course we'll go," Willow said, finding the idea just too amusing. Only Lio would find conducting vampire tours for tourists amusing! He was definitely unlike any other master she'd ever met and probably ever would. She really liked him and hoped that he would become part of their circle of friends in their new city.

"I'm so pleased," Lio smiled at the pretty redhead. He had been considering something since shortly after they had met, a solution to his biggest problem sitting right beside him. It seemed a perfect idea, and would not only help her but would improve his life greatly. It had been two months of stress and worry. Looking into her green eyes, he knew somehow that she was the answer to his prayers.

"You really conduct a vampire tour?" Lorne looked at Lio, having to laugh.

"Yes. I have for the last few years," Lio elaborated, drawn from his thoughts about Willow to look at the green demon that was laughing at him. "It's entertaining. I adore humans, find them entertaining and this is a great way to meet many interesting people."

"Don't say that too loud, Vampy," Faith warned, "I wouldn't think it would be good for your image if it was known that you liked humans."

"Too late, slayer," Lio laughed, "it's rather public knowledge. Besides, most of my family share my beliefs. If they don't, they accept them and deal. Over the years, they've learned that they don't live very long if they try to test me."

"Well, I for one am glad you like us," Willow smiled at him, glad that they met him. He was different and entertaining and just fun. "Actually, Bella, there was something I was wanting to talk to you about. After dinner, perhaps on the way to the group?" Basilio questioned.

"You want to talk to me?" Willow looked at him in surprise but curiosity. "What about?"

"A job offer," he smiled, knowing he had her hooked when she leaned forward, her green eyes shining with interest.

"You want me to work for you?" Willow was curious, not wanting to wait to find out what he meant. "On the tour or what?"

"No, actually I need a new personal assistant," Lio explained, "my former assistant had been with me for twenty years before he decided to get married and move to Montana. Since he left, I've been driven crazy with temps. I need someone that I can trust that can get things done without being afraid of dealing with demons and vampires. I think you'd be perfect, if you're interested."

"A personal assistant? Me?" Willow felt a smile cross her face, liking the idea of being trusted by the master of New Orleans. Also, being his assistant would keep them in the loop as well as let them know what was happening in the city. "I'm very interested."

"We will discuss the details after the tour is completed this evening," Lio decided, please at her enthusiastic response. He had known as soon as he had spent an hour talking to Willow that she would make an excellent replacement for Mike. He would be able to relax and not worry about everything falling apart if she was in control of his affairs.

"I rather like the idea of you working with Lio," Faith told Willow, not sure when she had first heard him mention it if it was a good idea or not. Now, thinking about it, it made a lot of sense. Willow would be great in such a role of authority and they'd be aware of the comings and goings of every demon in town. It would make slaying a lot easier and would keep them out of the dark.

"Maybe I can talk to that lady you were supposed to meet on Monday," Gunn suggested, shrugging when they looked at him, "what? If I'm planning on staying here awhile, I could use a job. Get some money coming in, that sort of thing. Besides, it would let me help out at the club at night as well as being free for patrols and stuff."

"I think it's a good idea," Willow said, feeling a bit guilty for having not even remembered that she was supposed to go for an interview on Monday. She'd been so excited about working with Lio and being important to running the town that she hadn't even thought about anything else. She liked helping fight evil, enjoyed working with Buffy to keep Sunnydale safe. Now, it looked like she'd have a chance to keep New Orleans safe in a major way besides just slaying, which was something she'd never imagined happening. She'd talk to Lio tonight after the tour, find out more details. Now, if Gunn got that job with Markine's friend, and they could find Faith a job and get approved for the house and business, life would indeed be great.

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

"Man, that was tight!" Gunn said, having enjoyed the vampire tour that Basilio conducted far more than he had figured. It had been insane to watch the faces of the unknowing tourists that had been caught up in the stories that the real vampire leading the tour told. They'd even gone to a vampire club where he had seen several vampires, though most the tourists laughed and the human wannabes that populated the club with their dark clothes and fake fangs. People like that were just weird in his opinion. Probably weren't even aware that the people at the next table were the real thing, so caught up in the fantasy created by books and movies. When reality hit, let's see if they still romanticized the life.

"You're a natural," Faith decided, looking at Lio with respect. He'd been an excellent tour guide, charming and entertaining, definitely gave the tourists their money's worth.

"I enjoy the hobby," Lio said with a smile, glad that they had been entertained.

"Were any of those stories really true?" Willow asked, having been caught up in his stories along with the tour group.

"There is a bit of truth in a few of them, but most are merely stories that have been told around the Quarter for years," Lio replied. "The truth tends to be far more uninteresting than the myth."

"You were great at commanding a crowd," Lorne spoke up, having fallen under the spell of Lio's hypnotic voice and piercing eyes along with the others. It had been amazing to be swept up into the myths and legends surrounding vampires in New Orleans. "Very, very good."

"I try to do everything that I attempt well," Lio said with a slight smirk, his eyes giving no doubts that he meant everything.

Lorne would have blushed at the look in the vampire's eyes, but he didn't want to give Faith the satisfaction of having something to tease him about. Instead, he met Lio's look and smiled, "Yes, well, they always say that anything worth doing is worth doing well."

"Okay, can we please stop with the flirting before I puke up my dinner?" Gunn said, visibly shuddering though his dark eyes were amused.

"There was no flirting, Charles," Lorne said, glaring at the black man.

"Actually, I was flirting," Lio said with a slow smile, watching as Lorne looked at him surprise. "But, to avoid upsetting Charles and his digestion, I'll refrain from flirting for the time being."

"Lorne, babe, you can close your mouth," Faith said sweetly, winking at a giggling Willow.

"Perhaps we can meet for a drink at some other time and continue the flirting in a more appropriate environment," Basilio suggested, smoothly asking the demon that had become a bit of an infatuation over the last few hours out.

"What?" Lorne blinked, wondering if he had heard correctly. Had Lio just asked him out? On a date? He didn't date. What was he supposed to do?

"He'll be ready tomorrow night," Faith said, giving Lorne a pointed look. She wasn't about to let the idiot pass up the chance to go out with the hunky vampire. Lorne deserved a hunk, damn it. She'd make sure he got one. "Say, eight o' clock?"

"Eight is perfect," Lio smiled at the slayer, liking her even more, "I don't have a tour scheduled so expect him home late."

"I don't know, Lio," Willow looked at the vampire with a serious look in her green eyes, "I'm not sure if we can let you keep him out after curfew."

"Yeah, cause you know if it was one of us about to go out with a vampire, a master vampire at that, he'd want our ass back at the hotel early," Gunn added.

"Hmm...I do see your point," Lio played along with them, wondering if Lorne would ever speak up or if he was still in shock. Looked like he was still in shock. "Perhaps I can have him back before dawn. Is that suitable for his family?"

"Sounds good to me," Faith said, looking at Willow and Gunn, a large smile on all their faces, "is that good for you guys?"

"It works for me," Willow said, watching as Gunn nodded. She looked at Lorne and smiled sweetly, "Lorne, honey, you're going out tomorrow night with Lio but he's promised to return you to us before dawn."

"Do I not get a say in this?" Lorne finally found his voice, deciding that they had found enough amusement at his expense.

The three looked at each and all replied in unison, "No!"

"Ha, ha," Lorne rolled his eyes, looking at Lio and smiling sheepishly, "Do you see what I'm forced to deal with?"

"As it would appear that they are on my side in this matter, I'd say that you are very lucky that they care about you," Lio said with a smile. "In all seriousness, do you wish to go out with me tomorrow?"

"Uh, well, yes," Lorne said honestly, finding this vampire interesting and attractive.

"Good, now that that is all settled, we're at the hotel," Faith pointed out, finding it rather nice that Lio had insisted on walking them back to the hotel. Of course, he still wanted to discuss the assistant job with Willow and, it appeared now, that he had wanted to ask Lorne out, but she still found his walking them back rather nice. She'd never thought she'd meet an unsouled vampire that she would not only like but would be rather interested in considering a friend. Then, she'd met Basilio, who was unlike any vampire she'd ever met, including Angel.

"I shall see you tomorrow," Lio nodded at Lorne before turning his attention to Willow. "Well, Bella, did you wish to have our discussion in the lobby or would you prefer going elsewhere?"

"I hate to be talking this late at night for fear of disturbing other guests," Willow said, a contemplative look crossing her face, "why don't we go to the Café du Monde and talk over coffee?"

"Well, guys, I'm going up to bed," Gunn said, giving Willow and Faith a brief hug before entering the hotel. Lorne said his own goodbyes and followed.

"Is it cool if I go with you?" Faith said, deciding that she could stand a plate of beignets plus she'd be able to hear about Willow's job.

"Of course, Sassy," Lio said, watching as the slayer rolled her eyes though she seemed to be accepting his nickname for her. It was very suiting for the brunette and he rather liked having his own name for each of these remarkable young women. He barely knew them, but he already considered them a part of his family. He offered both of the beautiful women his arms and said, "Shall we go?"

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

"This is a good table," Willow decided as she sat down, choosing a table that looked out onto Jackson Square. She figured that Faith would grow bored within five minutes and would be entertained by the variety of strange people that were still out despite the late hour.

"Man, there are some crazy people in this town," Faith said, shaking her head as she looked at Willow and laughed.

"We definitely have our unique characters," Lio said, taking a sip of coffee. Turning his full attention to Willow, he said, "I will explain everything that is required of you for the position. If you have any questions, feel free to ask. I want to be clear about what it involved before you officially accept. It will not hurt my feelings at all if you choose to decline the offer, though I somehow doubt you are the type to resist a challenge."

"Now, before you start, I won't be able to start working until we find a house for certain and get moved in," Willow said, not wanting to start a job when she was still living out of a suitcase at the hotel.

"You shall have the keys to your home by nine Monday morning," Lio smiled. "Henry has put in the necessary paperwork, has received a confirmation from Europe that the offer is acceptable, and was merely waiting for my approval, which I plan to give him tomorrow afternoon."

"Wait, you mean, this dinner and all, it was to see if you wanted us to move here or not?" Faith looked at him in surprise, having assumed the dinner was his way of checking out the new people in town rather than it being a test to see if they could stay. Damn, he did run a tight town.

"Of course," Lio replied, "did you not think that I would want to approve any new residents to my town? A vacationer is one thing, rarely requiring my involvement in approving their visit, but a new resident? I have to make sure that the rules will be followed, that there will be no problems, and that they will compliment my town."

"So, we passed?" Willow said, having to smile at just how organized everything was in this town.

"With flying colors, Bella," Lio returned her smile. "Now, the job. You will be required to be on call twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. You have no official schedule. Mike tended to work from mid-afternoon until midnight most weekdays while taking his weekends off. I'm not particular about the generic details. As long as you are there when I really need you, I don't care when you choose to work. You will be my second in command. You will oversee the registration process for visitors as well as take any requests for permanent residence. At that time, I will become involved and you will accompany on a dinner much like we had this evening. If there are problems, you will have the authority to make decisions and take action. Most of the time, Mike complained that he was bored because things ran smoothly without his constant attention. You will have a room at my home for instances that require you to stay over, but those don't happen very often. Usually if I am planning an event or a family gathering, but otherwise you will reside in your own home. You will have the use of my driver and car anytime that you wish. There will be times that a problem may occur outside of the Quarter so it is more convenient to just call Sam to drive you."

"Wow, um," Willow tried to take in everything he had said. It sounded like a lot of responsibility in one way, but it sounded kind of easy in another. The on call thing would be strange, but she was used to always being available to Buffy for research or patrol or anything else that came up. It wouldn't be much of a chance, she guessed. "So, I could still help Lorne with the club as long as I was first available to you."

"Of course," Lio said, "you could have your office at the club, if you choose. I have a floor in a building on Canal Street that has been the home for the registering service phones for the last few months, but it could easily be moved if you chose for it be at the club for convenience sake. There are five demons that work each shift at the service, each taking a twelve-hour shift with three days off per week. There are always three people working at the office, one taking calls, one handling requests, and the other helping out wherever needed. It works out well, and we have a stack of applicants interested in a position if you ever needed extra people on a temporary basis or if someone moves. I have a group of four that handle any problems that may occur. They are called in when someone fails to register or other instances like that. You will also be in charge of handling small family matters, making decisions on matter that do not require my involvement. I become involved on requests for a turning, mating, or bonding. And, as I've said, I'm involved on any cases involving requests to move to New Orleans. I also become involved in any situations that require the choice of death or leaving town. Again, those cases are very rare this last decade or so. During the holidays, I have a Halloween gathering, a Christmas gathering, a Mardi Gras party, as well as a few other smaller parties throughout the year. At that time, you will be called on to organize the details with my assistance, of course. I'm trying to think of anything else you might need to know."

"You mean, there's more?" Willow had to laugh, not believing everything the job would consist of. But, it sounded wonderful. She would be responsible for so many different areas, plus she'd still be able to help Lorne at the club. Lio had even given her permission to move the office to the club, which is something she was already considering. It would be much easier to have it, perhaps in the basement, more convenient to her house. If she had to be available at all times of the day, she would much prefer going downstairs to take care of something than going half way across the Quarter. That could wait, though, until everything was set up at the club.

"I nearly forgot salary!" Lio smiled sheepishly. He named a figure that caused Faith to whirl her head around from gawking at a living statue of an angel to staring at Lio with her mouth open.

"You're joking, right?" Willow asked, astonished that he had named such a large amount. That was more than Giles had made when he'd been a librarian. Goodness, she'd never expected to bring in that much money, never in her wildest dreams.

"I do not joke about matters of money, Bella," Lio smiled. "There are also benefits. Because Mike was human, I have a program set up for insurance. There is vacation time of two weeks a year, my only request being that you do not take it during an event. Because there is no definite hour structure, you can take sick days whenever needed. I believe that is everything that I can think of at the time. Does it sound like something you are interested in?"

"Very interested," Willow said with a smile. She'd wanted the position before hearing the salary and benefits. Now, she knew that it was perfect for her.

"You said she sometimes has to go outside the Quarter," Faith spoke up, asking, "if she has to do that, is it okay if I went with her? I mean, she's probably more powerful than I am with all that magic stuff, but it would make me more comfortable just in case."

"Of course you could accompany her," Lio said, understanding Faith's concern. "Sam is a very large, very tall demon that tends to be a threat even when silent, but I have no problems with your being involved."

"Cool," Faith nodded and turned her attention back to the street, licking the powder sugar off of her fingers as she waited for Willow to finalize everything.

"When do you need me to start?" Willow asked, smiling at the look of relief that flashed in Lio's gray eyes.

"Would Tuesday be too soon?" he asked, knowing that she would be moving on Monday. "Perhaps short days next week to let you become accustomed to everything while still allowing you time to move and get settled in."

"I can start Monday night," Willow said with a smile, seeing him about to object, she said, "Lio, I hardly have anything to move. It wouldn't take me an hour or two to get everything unpacked. Thankfully, the house is furnished!"

"I will have Sam pick you up Monday evening at seven," Lio agreed, "I will meet you at the office to introduce you to everyone."

"I'll be ready," Willow said as she began to eat her beignets and chat with Faith about some of the people they saw walking by, laughing as Lio added his own opinions. She couldn't wait until Monday.

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

Basilio had lied.

It wasn't Monday morning by nine that they received the keys to their new home and business. It was Saturday afternoon at 1:46 exactly. Willow had looked at her watch as Henry had handed the key ring to Lorne, wanting to know the exact moment they become homeowners. It appeared that Lio had indeed gotten in touch with Henry that morning, approving them as new residents for his town. Upon his urging, Henry had contacted them and asked for an afternoon meeting for the handing over of the keys and to sign some final papers. There would be still be a wait as everything was sent in and they wouldn't actually possess the deed for another few weeks, but they were going to be able to move in immediately. According to Henry, Lio had wanted his new assistant to have time to get settled in before starting her new job. Willow was thrilled at having an entire weekend to get her stuff unpacked and everything.

She felt rather bad that no one else really had anything to unpack. All of Lorne and Gunn's stuff was still in LA, both men only having the clothes they had brought for the trip to Sunnydale all those weeks ago. Lorne had mentioned contacting Angel soon to have his stuff shipped, but had also said that he planned to go on a bit of a shopping spree so he wasn't in too big of a hurry to receive his stuff. Gunn had finally admitted that he was staying indefinitely, had no plans to return to LA at anytime in the near future, if ever. Willow figured that he'd have Angel ship his personal stuff when the vampire sent Lorne's. Although, according to Gunn, he didn't really have all that much to worry about. As for Faith, everything she owned was in her bag. The slayer was especially excited about the idea of going shopping so that she could have more than just a few outfits to call her own.

Willow was glad that the house had come completely furnished. It was much easier to move into a house fully furnished with wonderful furniture, sheets, blankets and even what appeared to be new towels and everything. She was already making mental lists of things they would need to buy, knowing that tomorrow would definitely be a shopping day. They needed food, cleaning supplies, and essentials such as televisions and radios. Unfortunately, there hadn't been any electronics furnished with the house. According to Henry, the previous owned hadn't been a fan of TV, so that was why there were a million books but no television. Willow liked the books, finding several that she had seen in Giles' library along with some that she had used repeatedly while researching with Buffy. Those were mixed in next to classics and current best sellers. She was definitely one day going to tackle the organization of the library. She liked to have things grouped together, hated having to search for specific titles. It was probably one of her more annoying traits.

"We so need a TV," Faith said as she came into the living room and flopped onto the sofa, a smile crossing her face as she realized that this was her sofa. "Damn, Red, can you believe we own this place?"

"I'm pinching myself every few minutes just to remind myself that it isn't all a dream," Willow smiled at her friend before turning back to her list.

"Whatcha writing?" Faith asked the redhead. She was bored. She'd unpacked her few clothes, hanging them in her closet. She had then helped Lorne get ready for his date with Lio, picking out a blue suit that had went well with his green complexion. She didn't find it odd at all to be helping a demon dress for a date with a vampire. She was a slayer, she was used to having a weird life. Besides, at least she was finally happy. Okay, so not as happy as she would be if she had some gorgeous hunk of male waiting naked in her bed for her, but it was still all good. Anyway, she didn't have time for a man at the moment. Her eyes moved over Willow, maybe a girl? Nah, that wasn't gonna happen so it was best to move on. She liked having a best friend, especially one that she found attractive and could tease so easily. She enjoyed making Willow blush, though it wasn't as easy now as it used to be.

"A list of everything we need to buy," Willow said, her mind moving to the bathroom and what would be needed there.

"Add chocolate chip cookies to the list," Faith said, leaning up on her elbows as she hollered, "Chuck!!!!!!!! Where are you?????"

"I'm enjoying my new bed!" he screamed back, snuggling against the comfortable king size mattress.

"Is there anything you want to add to Willow's list of things to buy?" Faith screamed to him, not wanting to get up from her spot on the sofa to walk the few feet to get to the door to his room.

"I dunno," he answered back, "I'll let you know if I think of anything, Red!"

"He'll let you know," Faith said as she gave Willow a sweet smile.

"I heard," Willow rolled her eyes, turning the page of the notebook to begin a second page. She was glad that she had quite a bit of money in her savings account. It looked like they were going to need it. Luckily, she'd be able to repay the money within a month because Lio was going to pay her so well. She still couldn't believe the large amount he had named as her salary. She guessed it was so high because she would always be on call and available to him, but it was beyond anything she'd ever imagined making with her first job.

"So, what do you think Lio and Lorne are doing right now?" Faith asked, wiggling her eyebrows in a leering way.

"I figure they're getting to know each other, flirting up a storm and just having fun," Willow decided with a laugh. She was happy that Lio was interested in Lorne, knowing that her friend deserved all the happiness he could get. She suddenly spoke up, remembering what she had wanted to tell Faith that she had discovered just recently, "Guess what?"

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

"What?" Faith asked, turning her head to look at her best friend, wondering what had caused the enthusiastic tone in the redhead's voice. Knowing Willow, it could be anything.

"I checked the phone book earlier and found out that there's a Wal-Mart out by the airport," Willow smiled, rather proud of her achievement. They'd not seen any normal stores since arriving in New Orleans, the Quarter occupied by neat little stores and small grocery stores. There was a mall by the river, but she'd always hated malls. She'd been thrilled to see that there was a Wal-Mart not too far away. She liked shopping in the Sunnydale Wal-Mart, wandering around for hours and buying things she didn't need just because they were on sale. She'd be able to get the cleaning supplies they needed for a good price and would probably be able to pick up the majority of items on their list in one place.

"We shop for less," Faith said seriously before she had to laugh, deciding that only Willow would get excited at the idea of a Wal-Mart. Okay, she liked roaming the many aisles of low priced merchandise herself, but it was just too cute to see Willow all excited.

"Yep, we do!" Willow laughed, "I figured we could buy almost everything there, including the electronics. They have good brands and cheaper prices than a lot of places. I also found a Best Buy listed in the phone book, but they're more expensive. It's an alternative, though, if we can't find the best TV at Wal-Mart."

"I want a huge fucking television for upstairs in our little nook," Faith said, her dark eyes flashing with enthusiasm, "full system with DVD, VCR, stereo and surround sound. Man, we'll hook it all up."

Willow smiled. They had already moved around the furniture in the upstairs area, having decided to make it their viewing center. It was far enough away from the downstairs bedrooms that they wouldn't disturb Lorne or Gunn if they were up late, and it would give them sort of an upstairs living room. Gunn had already requested his own personal TV for his room, telling them that he liked to lay in bed and watch. She and Faith would prefer not taking up space in their rooms with large TVs, so the living area was perfect for them. Now, Willow would definitely be buying a CD player and radio for her room, but she could live without a TV. She answered Faith, "We can check the Internet and pick up some cheap movies for our collection. I know that I'm planning on having Buffy send me my collection from home. I didn't want to bring it until I had somewhere to stay. I've got dozens of movies, so it's a good start. Oh, I also need her to send me my music. Let me make a note here."

"You and your notes," Faith laughed as she rolled her eyes at the redhead.

"I like to be organized," Willow said before she stuck her tongue out at the slayer. "You'll be glad tomorrow when we find ourselves at the store and we actually have a list instead of just trying to remember everything."

"We how you're going, we're gonna need a U-Haul just to get all that stuff home," Faith laughed, knowing the redhead had filled one full page of the notebook with items to buy and was halfway through the second.

"A lot of it won't take up too much space," Willow defended, "but the electronics might be a problem. Gunn's car isn't that big. Hmm....Damn, I guess we do end up at Best Buy for the bigger stuff cause they usually have delivery."

"You still want a desk, don't you?" Faith asked, watching as the redhead nodded, "I think the office stores have delivery too so we might want to look there."

"Great," Willow smiled, the desk being the only furniture she planned to add to her room. She already knew where it could go, the room large enough that it wouldn't really change too much. She just had to have a desk, somewhere for her laptop and stuff. She also planned to buy a computer for the library downstairs, something big and powerful so that the others could use it for net access and so she'd have one convenient to the library if she needed to do research without having to unhook her laptop. Also, she figured she might end up putting some of her work files on it to avoid using up her laptop memory. Yeah, she was real glad that she had her savings. Of course, Lorne would also be helping with the price, Faith and Gunn promising to start contributing once they found a job. Willow didn't really care. All of her savings was from her parents. They hadn't bought her a gift since she was six, instead putting money into her savings account. She'd had a lot of birthdays and holidays since she was six, so the balance was rather large. Easily enough to buy everything on her list without Lorne's help, but she knew that he had a lot more money and wanted to help so she was going to let him pay for some of it. It was really stupid, though, since he'd bought the house, but he insisted on helping. It wasn't worth an argument. She'd just make sure she bought the more expensive things so that it was sort of fair.

"Red, are you finished with the list yet?" Faith whined, watching Willow's face as the redhead studied the list, obviously lost in thought.

"Why?" Willow asked, looking up as she looked at her friend.

"It's nearly ten and I'm hungry," Faith whined, her eyes amused. "I thought, since we are having a stay at home night even thought it's a Saturday and we're in a party town, that we could go pick up some food at that place we saw yesterday. It said it was twenty-four hours."

"The Clover Grill?" Willow recalled the place they had seen during the walking tour of Lio's the previous evening. "Sure, the rest of this can wait. Go get Gunn and we'll go grab some dinner. The kitchen is empty. I definitely think the supermarket will be our first stop tomorrow!"

"Yeah, cause I really hate not having any food around when there's a kitchen right there," Faith said before she yelled, "Chuck, do you want some food? We're going to that grill."

"Give me five minutes," Gunn yelled back, getting to his feet as he looked around his new room. A smile crossed his face before he went into the bathroom.

Faith stood up and took the tablet from Willow and tossing it on the table as she said, "Let's go eat!"

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

"Is there anything left in the stores?" Lio asked with a smile as he looked around the living room at the many boxes and bags that covered nearly every free surface. He'd just arrived a few minutes before and had already carried a large stereo into Lorne's room. He now had a moment to observe the room, shaking his head at all the purchases.

"Ha ha, Vampy," Faith said, giving him a look before saying, "If you're not going to help us, go away!"

"Be nice, Faith," Willow scolded with a smile, "that's my boss you're being rude to!"

"Well, he needs to quit flirting with Lorne and help us move some of these heavy boxes," Faith grumbled though her dark eyes were lit with amusement. "He is a vampire after all. That means, super strength so lifting this TV shouldn't bother him at all."

"I am *so* glad that the delivery guys took that huge one upstairs for us," Willow said, her mind thinking about televisions after Faith's comment, still finding it hard to believe that Lorne had allowed Faith to choose such a large screen TV for their upstairs nook. Of course, it appeared that Lorne couldn't tell the slayer no when she got her puppy dog eyes going, something Faith used to her advantage.

"It's cause they were trying to impress us with their muscles," Faith said, flexing her arms as she imitated the delivery men. "That blond one was hot for you, Red. He kept asking if there was anything else you needed, and I don't think he meant delivery!"

"Whatever," Willow rolled her eyes, laughing as Faith leered suggestively. "It's nearly eight and we've just gotten home. All this stuff has to be put away tonight, so quit talking and get working!"

"Yes, Mistress," Faith said as she grabbed a couple of the bags that went to the kitchen.

"Gunn, those bags need to go into each of the bathrooms," Willow pointed out the separated bags. "I've already divided everything so you just need to take one to each bathroom. It's pretty basic stuff like soap, toothpaste and that sort of thing. The larger one has the cleaning supplies which I figured we'd keep with the other cleaning supplies in the closet by the stairs where I had Lorne put the vacuum."

"I'll take care of it," Gunn said as he picked up the bags and started for the first bathroom.

"Lorne, you and Lio are in charge of the entertainment system for the living room," Willow said, "everything you need is over beside the sofa. Once you guys have that hooked up, check in with me and I'll let you know what else needs done."

"Have I mentioned how fortunate I am that she is going to be my new assistant?" Lio asked as he obeyed Willow's instructions and moved to help Lorne with the box that held the new television.

"Yes, you have," Lorne smiled at the vampire, winking as he cut the tape that was covering the box. He'd had an excellent time the previous evening, staying out until just before dawn. They'd had drinks and listened to a new local band, talking until the club had closed. Lio had dropped him off at the hotel, leaving him with a soft kiss. Lorne had to confess that it had taken him hours to go to sleep, his mind still caught up on Lio and that kiss that had promised so many things. He hadn't been very surprised when there had been a knock on the door shortly after dusk. He'd let Basilio come in only after giving him fair warning that Willow would most likely put him to work, which the redhead had immediately done after greeting the vampire.

"She's amazing," Lio said with sincerity. Willow had everything organized and completely under control. He was thrilled that he had chosen so wisely, knowing that he was going to have the best assistant in the entire city. He glanced at Lorne and smiled. He looked around to make sure everyone was busy before he leaned forward and brushed a soft kiss across Lorne's lips and whispered, "*You're* amazing."

"Hey now, no necking until the entertainment center is hooked up," Willow said with a laugh as she caught them kissing. She grabbed another bag and started putting things away, giggling when Lorne stuck his tongue out at her.

It was five hours later before everything was put away, hooked up, and cleaned up. Five tired people lay on the sofa, chairs, and one lay on the floor. Faith moved the large floor pillow she had bought under her chest as she covered a yawn, "Man, who knew that shopping could be so tiring."

"I feel like I've run a marathon or fought a dozen demons that were winning," Gunn said as he stretched.

"Hey, look at it this way, it's all done," Willow said with a smile, listening as they groaned in response to her perky reply.

"Always the optimist, Cupcake," Lorne muttered, glaring at her before having to smile. "But, you're right. It is all done."

"I think it all came together perfectly," Lio said from his position beside Lorne, his gray eyes smiling at Willow.

"I love the living area upstairs," Faith beamed, having picked out the biggest TV she could find that would fit in the space. She'd already turned it on, sat on the sofa and felt like she was in a movie theater. It was completely cool. Once they got cable hooked up, she'd rarely leave that area except for important stuff like..."Guys, I'm hungry."

"Starving is a more appropriate word," Gunn said, looking at Willow and reminding, "Someone wouldn't let us take a dinner break!"

"Whine whine whine," Willow said with a laugh. "Don't worry. It is all taken care of."

"What do you mean it is taken care of?" Lorne asked.

"I called in take out about twenty minutes ago when it was obvious that we were nearly finished," Willow said with a smile. "Lio was kind enough to have someone pick it up for us and it should be here soon."

"Hot damn," Faith beamed, "I love you, Red! I'll get drinks. The soda should be cold by now. Lio, you want anything?"

"Soda is great," Lio said, having fed before coming for his visit.

"I hear the door," Willow said, "I'll go down and let him in."

As Faith got drinks, Gunn went to the kitchen and got plates. He wasn't sure if they needed silverware, but he grabbed some just in case. He wanted to fall back on the sofa and not move until he had some strength back. By the time he arrived back in the living room, Willow had the food and was handing it out.

"Thank God we found a twenty-four hour place that was delicious," Willow said as she took her cheeseburger and sat down. When everyone had their food and drinks, she said, "I propose a toast. To home sweet home."

"Home sweet home," voices echoed as cans of soda were knocked together. They continued talking about the new house, New Orleans, and Willow's upcoming first day of work as they ate, the hours filled with laughter and groans before Lio left after giving Lorne a small kiss, and the others retired to their new bedrooms. Soon, the house was silent as they all went to sleep, pleasant dreams awaiting them.