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Disclaimer: If you know who they are, we don't own them
Okay guys, here it is. This is the TRIPLE author story that I mentioned the other day. I hope you all like it and again, thank you to my co-authors.
Prue had just hung up the phone and was truly amazed at how life could change so quickly. Phoebe had moved back in over a year ago now. Piper still needed to play referee from time to time, but she had to admit that they were getting better with each other. Phoebe worked at the paper as an advice columnist and Piper had her club. Prue was doing photography, which paid well and gave her time to be home as well. Her assignments were average four a week and she was quite happy with it. Life finally seemed to be settling into place when she received a phone call no one had expected. She couldn’t believe what she’d just been told, so she called the paper and talked to Phoebe. “Hey Pheebs, we’re having a bit of a family emergency, think you can get off work for the rest of the day?” “Are you alright?” “Yeah I’m fine, Piper’s okay too, but we do have a family problem.” “Could you be a little less cryptic,” Phoebe said a little on edge. “Pheebs, I’m gonna tell you everything I swear, but I only want to say it once, please just go with me on this.” “Alright, alright, I’m sorry, I can get off, but I need you to pick me up, my car was making funky noises, so Piper dropped me off today.” “Okay meet me out front in like ten minutes.” “Yep, bye.” Phoebe hung up and Prue picked her up ten minutes later. Together they drove to P3 listening to the radio and having idle chit chat. Pulling up to the bar, they parked and went inside.
Prue sat on a bar stool as Piper was putting away some glasses. “So, do you want a drum roll or are you just gonna spit it out?” Piper said with a smile. “The short version is we have a half sister,” Prue said bluntly. The room went very quiet and then Phoebe started laughing. “Yeah right!” she giggled. “No Pheebs, dead on right, we have a little half sister and apparently she is in need of some help.” “Okay back up, hold it, start from the beginning and do NOT leave anything out!” Piper hissed at her sister. “Okay well the story goes,” Prue started. “I was on the phone with work when the call waiting went off and a man named Nicholas Michaels called from South Bay Social Services and asked for, get this, Prudence Bennett.” “Bennett, that’s dad!” Piper said interrupting. “Yeah I know so I’m like no it’s Halliwell, but what can I do for you? I’m not exactly why I asked him what I could do, but I did and he told me that according to hospital records we are related to a Paige Bennett Matthews.” “Matthews?” Phoebe interrupted. “That bastard gave her up for adoption when her mother died. He didn’t want her, they can’t find him, we’ve been discovered, and she’s being pulled out of her last foster home.” Prue was telling the story with lots of patience, which surprised both her sisters. “Guys, I know she’s not full blood, but after what I heard on the phone I’m telling you she needs our help. I did however decide to put this to vote. All those in favor of helping her?” Prue asked. No one raised their hand even Prue. “Okay, so no one voted,” Phoebe stated, “so what does that mean?” “We go to Social Services and meet our little sister.”
The girls jumped in Piper’s jeep and drove over to South Bay Social services. Piper drove, Prue navigated and Phoebe was sitting quietly in the back seat. Prue glanced over at Piper and could see the wheels turning in her mind. “Piper I can tell you’re thinking about something, tell me please,” Prue said kindly. “I don’t know Prue. First we find out we have another sister, that dad abandoned, although I don’t know why I should be surprised at that, he abandoned us too. So I can deal with that little thing,” Piper started. “Turn right,” Prue interrupted, “go on.” “Then we find out we’re the only family she has left, that she’s been tortured and abused, neglected by everyone around her, and to top it off they want US to take care of her. I don’t know, I just can’t help thinking,” Piper continued before Prue interrupted again with more directions, “that if it were me I knew I had family out there, I’d want them to take me in. I’d want someone to love me wouldn’t you?” “I would,” Phoebe said from the back seat. “Okay, so are we going to take her in and show her what a real family is like, or do we tempt the fates and say give her to someone else?” Prue reasoned. “I hate tempting fate,” Piper sighed. “But…” Phoebe finished for her. “Are we ready for this? I mean you two are just getting back to a normal sister relationship, do we really want to rock the boat?” Piper said. “I’m sorry I’m just confused. Half of me is saying take her and love her and show her that a family is a good thing to have and the other part of me is saying don’t fix what isn’t broke in your own house.” At this point they were sitting outside the office discussing things further. Prue took a deep breath and looked at both her sisters. “Look, we don’t HAVE to take her although I’m beginning to want to take her for all reason Piper already said. So we’re going to go in and before we meet her we are going to find out everything we can. They are open till ten, it’s three o’clock now. This is not a vote situation, we go in and it has to be unanimous, this is a huge deal. Agreed?” Piper and Phoebe nodded and together they all walked in to talk to Nick. Prue asked for him at the front desk and the receptionist buzzed them through, giving them directions to his office.
The original plan was to find out everything you could about the little girl in question before meeting her. This way you wouldn’t be too heart broken if in fact it was decided that they would not take her into their care. However as the saying goes, Man makes plans and God laughs. Upon entering the office of Nick Michaels they saw a scared, battered, tiny, little girl, sitting in the corner of the room clutching a ragged looking doll and tears falling down her face. Piper stopped dead in her tracks and walked back out the door. “Prue, a word,” she said. Phoebe joined her sisters right outside the door and in the quietest voice she could muster, Piper announced that she didn’t mean anything in the truck, they were helping that little girl. “Prue I’m sorry, I know what I said and I know you said unanimous decision but I can not leave here knowing that is what she looked like. She looks EXACTLY like us.” Piper started. Her voice was raising with every word and Prue hushed her. “Pheebs?” Prue questioned. “I’m in, there’s no way I’m leaving her here. She can’t be more than 3 years old. We have to take her we have to show her what a good family life can be.” “Okay, well I have to tell you both that after what I heard on the phone I wanted her, so I’m glad you two are in on it as well. Now we go back in and we sit and we listen. No sudden movements okay?” Prue instructed. Both girls nodded at her and Phoebe squeezed Prue’s hand. “Thank you!” she said softly. “For?” “For not giving up on her even though she’s part of dad.” “She’s my sister Pheebs, I do not give up on sisters right?” Prue smiled. Phoebe nodded and the three girls went back in to talk to Nick.
“Hello ladies, please sit down,” he greeted them warmly. He extended his hand to Prue first and upon shaking it, he asked about the other two women in the room. “These are your sisters?” “Yes, Piper and Phoebe,” she introduced them as he shook each of there hands respectively. “Well,” he started as he looked at the tiny girl in the corner. “Paige sweetheart,” he called to her. She stayed in her corner huddled against the wall as more tears fell down her face. Looking at the tiny girl, Phoebe’s heart almost broke. “May I?” she asked Nick. “Be my guest,” Nick stated as he smiled at what he thought were her futile attempts. He’d been trying to get Paige out of the corner all afternoon. Standing up from the chair, she knelt in front of Paige and smiled at her. “Hey there Paige,” she cooed softly. Upon getting no answer, she tried a different approach. “Is that your dolly?” she asked. Paige gripped the doll tighter to her body, which didn’t go un noticed by Phoebe. “Oh I don’t want to take your dolly sweetheart, I just wanted to have a look may I?” Phoebe said kindly. While extremely reluctant to let it go, Phoebe eventually took the doll from Paige and cuddled it. “Hi dolly, I’m Phoebe, and those are my sisters Prue and Piper,” she said kindly. Lifting it up, she hugged it tight and then went to hand it back to Paige. Before returning it she held the doll up to her ear. “Really? She does? I’d be happy to give her one,” Phoebe started. “Here sweetheart,” she said giving the doll back. “You know what the dolly told me? Your dolly told me you might want a hug from me too,” Phoebe smiled at her as she held her arms out. After waiting a minute Paige gave her a soft hug and just stood in front of Phoebe as Phoebe stood up from her crouched position. “Would you like me to hold you for a while?” she asked. Paige simply lifted her arms and Phoebe grinned and pulled the small child into her arms. She rubbed her back gently and waited as Paige relaxed into her grip. Putting her head on Phoebe’s shoulder she closed her eyes and started to cry again. “You’re alright now baby, you’re safe now,” Phoebe said softly. The entire time Prue was smiling. Her baby sister made her so proud that she couldn’t resist the urge to smile at her. Piper stood smiling as well and then the girls sat back down in front of Nick. His jaw had practically hit the floor by this point. He knew he’d done the right thing by calling these girls. “Mr. Michaels,” Prue said beaming. “Where do I sign?”
At around 6:30 they had signed the papers that needed signing and managed to convince Paige that Prue and Piper were nice people. She even let them hug her, but she was not leaving Phoebe’s side. Phoebe stood with Paige on her hip who sleepily rested her head on Phoebe’s shoulder. Nick stopped them before they reached the door. “Ladies you need a car seat.” “Oh, um, we uh…” Prue stuttered. “We have one for temporary use, we need it back by tomorrow evening,” he stated calmly. “Okay we’ll take one then,” Prue stated. Piper was cooing at Paige while Phoebe was gently swaying back and forth. Of everything she learned in psychology, she remembered the part about keeping a client calm. In this case it was her sister, but it didn’t matter. Keeping Paige calm was key right now. If she was calm, she would understand her world around her a little better and hopefully warm up to her big sisters a little quicker than anticipated.
After getting situated, Phoebe placed Paige in her car seat. She started to cry and fuss, and when Piper turned form the front seat to calm her, she scared her even further causing the tiny girl to cry in fright! Piper turned to face the front again, slightly jealous. Why did Paige love Phoebe so much? She dismissed it however when she saw the person walking in front of the car. She turned back to tell Phoebe what was making Paige fuss and Paige calmed down a little, although she was still terribly frightened of Piper. She leaned in toward Phoebe, hiding her face a little by putting it toward her chest. Her eyes were bright and beautiful yet scared. Piper noticed this and felt even more sorrow for the young child. She had been told this child had gone through horrible foster homes but the child's eyes made it all the more powerful. Piper fought to keep her tears back and reached out to touch Paige's small hand. Paige let her, a little reluctant at first but Piper's warm touch was gentle and even though it was not as relaxing as Phoebe's, it helped calm her a little. Prue started the car and drove, after turning back and winking at her newfound sister. They drove toward a restaurant. Paige rested her head on Phoebe's outstretched arm while holding her hand. With her other hand, she held onto Piper's caring hand.
Pulling up to the Macaroni Grill, Piper turned off the engine and got out of the car. “Come on baby-girl,” Phoebe said unbuckling Paige. “Are you ready for dinner?” Paige didn’t answer but she reached out for Phoebe. All four girls walked into the restaurant and the hostess lead them to a table. Phoebe asked for a booster seat and sat Paige in it. Paige started to cry a little but Phoebe hushed her and told her it was okay. Just as they finished ordering Phoebe’s cell went off. “Oh I have to take this,” she said as she got up and went to the door. Paige followed her with her eyes and when she couldn’t see her anymore she started crying.
. “No no, look,” Prue said sliding in next to Paige. “Here sweetie,” she said pulling her onto her lap. “Pheebs is coming right back. Why don’t we play a game with Piper for a minute okay?” Prue looked at Piper and told her to cover her eyes. Taking Paige’s hands in her own, she covered Paige’s eyes. “Where’s Piper?” she asked. Then taking her hands away she smiled at Paige. “There she is!” They continued the little game of Peek a boo and Paige was actually smiling. Returning to the table Phoebe slid in next to Piper and let Prue be with Paige. She didn’t want to hog her new little sister. When the food came they realized Paige was never taught how to eat on her own. “Here sweetheart,” Prue said. “Take your fork,” and Paige just stared at her. “Here,” Piper said, “I’ll feed you sweetie okay?” Reaching across the table she slowly fed Paige her hotdog and macaroni. Once dinner was finished the girls got back in the car and headed to the toy store. Paige looked around in amazement when she and the other three entered the store. She was in Phoebe's arms. By the look on her face, the sisters guessed she had never been in a toy store before, which made their anger levels rise.
"Hey sweetie, look, it's a dolly like yours." Phoebe exclaimed, pointing to a doll on the shelf. Paige smiled and squirmed, silently begging to get down. Phoebe set her down and smiled as the little girl crossed the aisle, the three sisters following. Paige smiled and giggled as she saw the doll on shelf, how it was just like hers, although somewhat cleaner. Phoebe smiled and ran over. "See, isn't she pretty? But, I like yours better." Phoebe said. Paige looked at her questioningly, silently saying, 'you do? Why?' "Well, see, her eyes, they look like yours and her hair isn't all perfect and nobody's hair is perfect so it makes her real, and, she talks too." Phoebe smiled. They continued to walk around the store, hand in hand with Prue and Piper following behind, admiring the sight.
Paige did not want to let go of any of these newfound friends. These people were actually nice to her and there was no way that she wanted that to stop. She still hadn't said anything yet. Piper was happy though because Paige let her carry her through the toy store. She was very light and tiny for a 3 year old and Piper was going to fix that with her cooking. Prue got a cart and asked Paige if she wanted to sit down in it. Hugging tighter to Piper, Piper answered for her. "I think that means no," she smiled. Prue nodded and they walked down the aisles of the store. Stopping at the baby section they pulled out three car seats and proceeded to an aisle filled with all kinds of stuffed bears. "Do you want a new teddy baby-girl?" Piper said softly. Paige only nodded. Piper wanted to actually hear her sister's voice so she started asking her questions. "What color bear would you like baby, they have so many here." Paige just shrugged her shoulders. "Well do you want a big one or a small one?" Piper asked pulling a tiny white one off the shelf. Using the bear to tap Paige's nose she actually got her to giggle. "There's that pretty smile," Piper cooed and then Paige stopped laughing. "Oh, it's gone again, let's find it." After bouncing the bear in her face again Paige started giggling again. "There it is," she laughed. Piper continued this little game and then it was time to leave. Taking the car seats, new teddy bear and a few other things Prue and Phoebe picked up they all left the toy store.
They drove home in the same fashion as they had earlier that evening. Paige was once again somewhat amazed with the house. It was larger and prettier than any of her previous foster homes, at least, any that she remembered. Most of what she remembered was of her last one, and all the beating that occurred there. This time, Prue carried her in. Paige was still somewhat nervous around Prue but had no real problem with her carrying her up to the large red house. Piper unlocked the door into the foyer. Prue set down her youngest sister and helped her with her coat. Once her coat was off, she stood strangely. Her chin was directed straight down at her chest and her arms and legs were straight. Her doll was hanging by a hole in her sleeve from Paige's thumb. The three sisters found this very odd. "Sweetie, why are you standing like that?" Phoebe asked. Paige's fingers began to curl but she immediately stretched them out straight again. Suddenly something rang a bell in Phoebe's mind. "Oh my God." She said. Prue and Piper looked at her. "What?" Piper asked, more confused with every passing second.
"A Child Called It." Phoebe stated simply. Piper and Prue had heard the book but never had the courage to read it. It was the story of a boy who was abused by his own mother. It was recorded as the third worst child abuse case in California history. "Her old foster parents. They treated her like the mother did in that book." She knelt down again. "Paige honey. Sweetie, you can talk. I promise, you won't get in trouble." Piper's face fell. Getting in trouble for talking? At three? How evil were these people? Paige closed her eyes, holding back tears of fear. "Baby, I promise you. I'm not gonna hurt you, ever, I swear. You don't have to stand like that." "But, she'll hit me!" Paige cried, not moving anything but her mouth.
"Oh, honey, no she won't. No one will!" Phoebe took her little sister into her arms. Paige cried as Phoebe lifted her. Piper and Prue joined the embrace, shocked with the little girl's response. They all stood together for a little while, until Paige calmed down a little. Phoebe carried the small child upstairs. Phoebe felt the little girl tense in her arms. “You’re okay angel, it’s alright now. Come on we’ll have a nice bath and relax a bit okay. I think Prue even found some books in the attic for us to read.” Paige nodded and the tears began to flow again. “Shhh, you’re okay baby, you’re all right, I’m here sweetheart,” Phoebe whispered. Paige didn’t pay attention, too many bad things had happened to her in the past and she was terrified of what could go wrong. Phoebe bathed her carefully and then pulled her our wrapping her in a soft towel. Prue appeared at the doorway by the time the bath was over holding a lilac sleeper in her hands. “Glad Grams didn’t throw this away. Awww, my poor baby, why are you crying?” she asked Paige gently. “Did you not have a good bath?” Prue was trying to make conversation with her but it wasn’t working. “Come on baby, let’s get dressed okay? This used to be mine, but we’ll get you all new clothes tomorrow. Okay?” “You’re gonna go shopping with Sissy?” Phoebe said excitedly. “You’ll love that so much. Sissy makes shopping fun!” Phoebe encouraged. “Sissy?” Prue questioned. Phoebe just smiled and nodded. “Does that sound like fun? Would you like to go shopping with Sissy?” Prue asked. Neither of her little sisters had ever called her sissy, so this would be a little weird, but nothing about this was normal so far. After dressing Paige she scooped her up and carried her downstairs. Picking up her dolly she handed it to Paige and carried her into the kitchen. “Hey there little one,” Piper said smiling. “I made you a glass of milk, would you like it now?” Paige didn’t answer she just rested her head on Prue’s shoulder. “I think someone is very tired huh?” Prue asked sweetly. Prue sat down on a bar stool, putting Paige on her lap. “Here angel, drink up for me, it’s just some milk,” Prue said gently. Paige fussed and squirmed and Prue kept her calm. “Shhh, shhh, okay no milk, how about a story, would you like a story?” Prue moved to the couch and had Piper and Phoebe on either side of her. Paige sat in her lap and waited for the story to be over. She didn’t make it past page ten. “Dr. Seuss, does it again,” Piper smiled. “Prue, where is she sleeping?” Phoebe questioned. Prue carried the little girl upstairs and tucked her into bed. She kissed her small head followed by Piper and lastly by Phoebe. With Phoebe's kiss, Paige woke.
"Will you stay wif me?" Paige asked, a little scared, yet embarrassed. Phoebe smiled and crawled in next to her newest sister.
"How about we all stay in here tonight?" Prue suggested. Paige nodded happily as her cute smile mounted on her face. Prue smiled and walked away. Paige's smile fell.
"Oh sweetie, she'll be back, she's going to get on her PJ's." Phoebe comforted her. Piper followed her older sister but soon they were back, and all toppled onto the queen size bed. It was a little squished but no one minded.
The next morning, Piper was the first to wake, as usual. She carefully climbed off the bed and went downstairs. 'Okay, now to feed her,' she thought as she tied her back, shuffling down the stairs. She leapt into the kitchen quickly and started a large breakfast. Soon, Prue was down, getting her morning cup of coffee and settling down in a chair to read the newspaper. Phoebe and Paige came down a little later, having smelt the delicious breakfast.
"Mmmm. Look Paige, Piper made us some bacon and some waffles and some eggs and some toast." Paige's eyes grew wider with every minute. She smiled and ran to give Piper a hug. Piper was pleased with this show of affection.
"So, what do you want to drink? We have Apple Juice, Orange Juice, Milk and lemonade." Prue asked as she scowered the refrigerator. Paige still bowed her head a little; out of shyness now though, not fear.
"C’n I ‘ave some Appa Juice pease?" Paige asked sweetly.
"Of course you can." Prue got out the Apple Juice and poured Paige some in a sippie cup. With a little help from Phoebe, she got into the chair and gulped down her juice.
Paige was unusually small for her age, at about 2'6" and just 28 pounds. Her dark hair was thin but her eyes were huge. Her rib cage was easily visible and much more than it should be. Even the skin under her eyes was dark. Taking in the pitiful site, Piper made a plate for Paige and one for Phoebe. “Here you go baby,” Piper said putting the plate in front of Paige. “You can have more when you finish this okay?” Piper said smiling. Paige nodded but didn’t make a move to eat. Prue peaked over the edge of her paper and saw she wasn’t eating. Lowering her paper she looked carefully at Paige. She got up and pulled a small fork out of the drawer that they had bought yesterday. “Here baby, look,” Prue said gently. Fixing the fork in her hand she kissed her cheek and looked at Phoebe. “Look, see how Phoebe does it?” Prue said pointing at her sister. Phoebe demonstrated how to use the fork and Paige just sighed. “Here Sissy, will even help you out okay?” Prue helped Paige and guided it to her mouth. “Good girl!” Piper beamed at her sister. Paige swallowed but just shook her head. It was too much too fast for today. Prue sighed. She was beginning to realize her mistake. Paige was just three and normally a three year old would feed themselves but Paige was not a normal three year old. “I’m sorry baby,” Prue said. “Would you like Sissy to feed you? Would that be better?” Prue pulled the tiny girl to her lap and slowly fed her breakfast. “Sissy, I done,” Paige said quietly. “You’re done already baby? You only had a few bites. Come on two more bites for me,” Prue bargained. “No I done,” Paige said as she brought her chin to her chest again. “My god she’s so submissive,” Prue thought to herself and it just infuriated her even more that their father gave up this beautiful little girl. “Alright no more bites for now,” Prue resigned. As Paige sat comfortably on Prue’s lap, the phone rang. Reaching back Prue grabbed the cordless to answer the phone. “Hello?…This is she…oh Katie, I can’t…not today…any other day but today…all right, I’ll see what I can do.” Prue hung up the phone and looked at Piper. “Piper please tell me that you do not have inventory today.” “I do why?” “That was work,” Prue said, her frustration rising. “Prue, stop,” Phoebe said pointing to Paige. Prue looked down to see Paige had her eyes closed and her thumb in her mouth. Wrapping her in a protective hug Prue proceeded to tell her sisters what was wrong.
“Katie said I have to be there for a photo shoot today and they can’t reschedule.” “What time is it?” Phoebe asked. “Two,” Prue said, “and I know you can’t watch her.” “I would love to bring her to work, but Elise will pitch a fit.” Prue nodded. “Let me call my managers and see what they can do.” Piper took the phone and called Gina and Ryan. She managed to get them to come in at noon. “Okay that’s taken care of. They will be there at noon and then I’ll be home by one does that give you enough time?” Prue nodded and decided it was time to get ready. “Do I let her sleep and we go shopping tonight? Or do I take her on my own.” “Oh no, wait till tonight!” Phoebe whined. “Oh kay,” Prue said sweetly. “We’ll wait for you and we’ll all go tonight okay?” Prue stood up and kissed Phoebe’s cheek and then Piper’s. Leaving the room she walked upstairs and gently placed Paige on the bed. Making sure she was okay she called down to Piper to come watch Paige while she took a quick shower.
The next few hours were a little hectic. Prue sped up the stairs to take a shower. As soon as she was out, Phoebe was in and Piper was still rocking Paige. She was in awe of her little sister. This little girl was so sweet. She didn't know how their father could have given her up or how her foster parents could have been so mean to her. Prue and Phoebe both rushed out the door, leaving the two at the house.
Piper got on the laptop she shared with her sisters to check some things online. She had a million things to do on it and not enough time in the day. She sighed while she waited for something to load. Just then, she felt something very tiny try to climb up on her lap. It was Paige. Piper hadn't even known she was up. She helped the small child up on her lap.
"Hey sweetie. You finished your nap?" Piper asked, a smile planted on her face. Paige stuck her thumb back in her mouth and nodded, resting her head on Piper's shoulder and watching the screen. Piper decided to take a break and have a little fun. She went onto a Disney sight to find a game Paige could have a little fun with. She found one and Paige helped her find a cartoon creature get out of the woods and back home. It was simple but fun. Paige laughed all through the game. "Yay! We did it!" Piper exclaimed when the small creature hopped out of the forest scene.
"Yay!" Paige smiled widely and watched the creature hop off the screen. "Now he gone!" Paige frowned when she could see the small purple animal any more.
"Yeah but…we can play again!" Piper suggested.
"Reawy?" Paige asked, excited. Piper nodded and clicked on the button saying 'Play Again.' She waited a moment before another window popped up. It read:
We're sorry. This sight has temporarily been shut down. Please try again in a few hours.
"Waz zat?" Paige asked.
"I don't think we can play cutie." Piper said, a little disappointed herself. Paige frowned. "Well!" Piper's eyes grew wide with enthusiasm and Paige looked up, anxious. "We don't need a silly computer to have fun!" Paige was confused. Piper smiled mischievously and began to tickle Paige. She burst out in a fit of giggles.
Prue came home a little while later. Announcing her presence, she scared Paige. “Oh sweetie, it’s okay, it’s just Sissy,” Piper said softly. “Everyone yells when they’re home in this house okay?” Piper explained. “There’s my sweetheart,” Prue said walking over to her sisters. She kissed Piper hello and then Paige. “Did you have a good afternoon?” Prue asked carefully. Paige nodded and relaxed into Piper’s grip. “Can Sissy have a hug?” Prue asked kindly. Paige nodded and reached out to her new big sister. Prue scooped her up and cuddled her close. “Oooh, look what I found,” Piper smiled at the two of them. “What?” Prue asked readjusting Paige to her hip. “That!” Piper pointed. “What?” Prue insisted. “Paige look at Sissy’s face. See that smile? You did that!” Piper explained. “Me?” Paige asked shocked. “Yes you,” Prue said as her smile grew a little more. Then she tickled Paige mercilessly. All the girls in the room had huge smiles on their faces. Eventually the laughter died down and Paige started crying. “What honey?” Prue asked concerned. Then Prue felt the wetness on her hip. “Awww baby it’s okay. Shhh, it’s okay it was an accident.” Prue said trying to comfort her little sister. “Piper can you go ransack the attic. I think I saw some other clothes up there.” Piper nodded and was off. Paige was still bawling. “Shhh, it’s okay sweetheart.” Prue carried her up to the bathroom and undressed her. Paige would not stop crying, she was sure there was a beating coming to her.
“It’s okay love, it’s okay, shhh,” Prue tried to sooth. Paige had herself worked up pretty good though and she never heard Prue talking to her calmly. Prue took a warm washcloth and ran it over her lower abdomen and crotch. “Shhh, I just want to clean you off baby, that’s all,” Prue cooed softly. Piper found a box with old clothes in it and grabbed a pair of faded jeans and a white top with a rainbow on it. Bringing it to Prue, she found Paige bawling and her heart broke. “Piper take her, get her dressed, rock with her for a while in my room. I’m going to go change, I’ll be downstairs,” Prue instructed. Piper quickly got Paige dressed and then cuddled her in the rocking chair they’d bought the night before. Prue headed down the stairs and threw her dirty clothes in the washer. A while later she heard the doorbell ring. Answering the door she was glad Paige was no longer screaming. “Nick, what a surprise,” she said smiling, at him. “Please come in.”
Nick walked in and looked around the foyer. There weren't and hazards that could be noticed. The door was a little rusty but was nothing to worry about. Paige came running down the stairs laughing, which pleased them all.
"Well I'm glad to see she is happy." Nick said, making Paige aware of his presence. She slowed a little, not scared, just curious. Piper swung up behind her and flew her through the air, having her land on her hip. Paige roared with laughter.
"Nick has come by to make an inspection." Prue announced. "Phoebe isn't home yet and when she does get home, we plan to go shopping for little miss Paige." Nick nodded.
Prue led him through the house. Nick noted the few changes in order. Paige would need something to prevent her from falling out of bed at night and a few of the vases needed to be kept higher. Prue and Piper promised these changes would be made soon. He agreed.
"Now, we've finally gotten Paige's old foster mother to release some of her things. If you'll all come with me, we can go get them." He recommended. After a moment, Prue and Piper agreed, although reluctantly. They wanted Paige to stay home but it wasn't possible. They needed more than just one person. She didn't have a lot of stuff but Piper's car would be necessary and Prue hated driving the jeep.
They drove to a poor area of San Francisco. It was better than some areas but nowhere near the luxury of the manor. They parked on the street and walked up the cracked cement steps to the house. It looked to be a fifties housing development. The house was a split-level and a station wagon was parked in the driveway. The shades were drawn and from the outside, the house had no warmth. The sisters were sure the same would hold true for the inside.
A woman answered the door and greeted Nick. Paige was still in Pipers arms. Her happy manor had disappeared once they entered the neighborhood. Tears built up behind her eyes although she held them back' tears were strictly forbidden in this house. They were tears of fear. The woman shot a look at her, trying to act friendly but her coldness was easily visible.
Prue took a deep breath, preventing herself from punching the woman right then. Before entering, she turned to look at Paige and Piper. Paige was hiding her head in Piper's shoulder. Piper was already very tense as she looked into the cold eyes of the woman who had hurt her little sister.
"Come in." She said. The four cautiously entered the home as if it was a death trap. "Well hello Paige." Her voice obviously held a secret, a deep one.
"Thank you Shelly." Nick said kindly, although he held disrespect in his tone. They all walked inside. Shelly attempted to comb her fingers through Paige's hair but Piper flipped Paige to the other hip upon noticing this.
"Paige, you can stand on your own. Don't make her hold you." Shelly told Paige firmly.
" No she's fine. I like holding her." Piper put force on the word 'like.' Shelly glared at her.
“Paige, Jacob's in his room, why don't you go see him?" Shelly suggested. Paige didn’t answer she was too scared to speak. “See, she’s a brat, there is no reason I should not get some sort of response to that statement,” Shelly spat. Piper gripped her little sister tight, trying to reassure her that no one was going to take her away. “Shelly is it?” Piper glared at the woman. “Yes,” the woman hissed at her. Prue waited with baited breath. Piper NEVER got cross at anyone. She never saw Piper get so angry so fast. “I don’t think her behavior is your concern anymore is it.” Piper wanted to scream at this woman for calling her little sister a brat, but that wouldn’t solve anything. It would only freak Paige out more and they were doing really well with her getting to open up and nothing was worth risking that. Prue was very proud of her sister, she’d never seen her so protective before. “Well,” Nick interrupted them as he cleared his throat. “I think we aught to start packing.” “Yes we should,” Prue jumped in, “we have an appointment to get to.” “Well all her things are just up there, you can leave her with me while you pack up,” Shelly suggested. “You know what I think we’re fine,” Prue said as she stepped in front of Piper. Effectively blocking Shelly from Paige and Piper. “Well I just don’t want you to be late for your appointment, I can’t tell you how many times she made me late for an appointment. “Okay,” Piper spoke up, “we really need to start packing.” Prue turned and looked at Piper carefully. “Can you pack with her? Because if I go, I’ll deck that woman,” Prue whispered. Piper smiled at her. Nodding her head, she rubbed Paige’s back. “Paige baby, Sissy’s gonna hold you now alright?” Piper explained gently. Prue took her now baby sister in her arms and slipped the diaper bag over her shoulder. It didn’t hold any diapers in it, just a sippey cup, her favorite doll, and a change of clothes incase she got too scared and ended up messing herself again. Prue took hold of her and cradled her in her arms.
Piper took a deep breath and headed up the stairs with the woman. She hated the woman and she wanted to kill her already but Piper knew it was better for her to be the one that went upstairs with her not Prue. Because Prue would actually do it. Shelly made her way down the hall and stopped at the last door. She opened it and led Piper in. Piper almost gagged. The room had the most awful smell. It was the smell of Mildew and dried pee. "Paige still wets the bed," Shelly said if she knew what Piper was thinking. Piper scanned the room. The pink wallpaper was coming off the walls. There was a very old crib under a window. There were like five bars missing on it. The window was being covered by a sheet. Piper could feel a draft. She noticed that the dresser was broken. There were a few stuffed animals lying around the floor. Piper licked her lips. Besides the stuffed animals that she was sure Paige would want, nothing looked worth keeping. She knew she and her sister's would but Paige everything she needed and it would be clean and new not hand me downs. But out of politeness Piper began packing the boxes. Shelly noticed Piper was doing fine packing through the boxes she decided to go back down stairs to see Paige and her big sister.
Prue sat holding Paige on her lap telling her stories. Prue used to make up stories to get Phoebe to sleep now she got do it all over again. Paige listened to her carefully sucking on her thumb playing with her own hair. "She's not a loud to suck her thumb!" Shelly's shrill voice broke Prue from her story. Prue looked up at her in almost disgust "I think she's ok I don't mind if she does" "Paige knows the rules for this house and she is in it right this second" Prue rolled her eyes. But she did remove Paige's thumb from her mouth. Shelly nodded "That's more like it. This child is going to give you a run for your money. She needs a good spanking all the time" Prue was about to loose her cool. Paige tensed up in Prue's arms. Prue stood up and shifted Paige to her hip. She kissed her cheek and ran her hand over the top of her head. "Well she doesn't seem to be your problem anymore so why don't you let me worry about how to raise her." Before Shelly could respond Piper came down the stairs with a backpack on her back and two boxes in her arms. "This is it, the rest of the stuff we have" Piper lied. There was no way she was going to bring that broken crib into her house. Prue gave Shelly a fake smile. "Well I guess we will be going now. It was a pleasure meeting you" Shelly followed them to the porch. Prue turned around with Paige on her hip. "Wave goodbye to Shelly" Paige gave a small wave. "Now put your thumb back in your mouth" Prue whispered. Paige did so. And then put her head down on Prue's shoulder. Shelly glared at them and went back into her house slamming the door. Piper giggled. "I don't want to know do I" Prue shook her head. "And I don't want to know about upstairs do I." Piper shook her head "Lets just say most of this stuff is going into the dumpster." Prue smiled and got into the car and buckled Paige in. Nick talked to Prue briefly as she was climbing into the passenger side. "Prue, you said you were going shopping tonight?" Prue nodded in response and Nick continued. "I need to come back to check on the changes in a few days. How about Friday?" "Friday's okay do you need us all at the house though? Friday it should be just me and Phoebe, because Piper works at the club Friday night." "I can get my managers to cover for a while if you need me though," Piper called out.
"No that's okay, don't worry about it." Nick said kindly. "I should also tell you, she needs to have her own bed in her own room is that do-able?" "Off the top of my head right now, i can't think, but we will come up with something." "That's fine as long as she has her own bed in her own room by the time I come back to visit. Mandatory by state law and such. I'm sorry to spring it on you like this, but it has to be that way till she's fully adopted." Prue nodded in agreement. Finally ending the conversation the girls drove home. As they pulled up to the manor Phoebe pulled in right behind them. "Hey Pheebs," Prue smiled at her. "Hey," Phoebe said returning the smile. "Did you guys go shopping without me?" "No, we went to the old F-O-S-T-E-R place to get a few things." Prue responded. While she and Phoebe were talking Piper was pulling the boxes out of the car. "I'll take her," Phoebe offered. Reaching in she unbuckled Paige and pulled her out of the car. "Hey baby-girl," she said kissing her cheek. "Prue she's shaking, why is she shaking?" Prue shrugged her shoulders and stepped closer to both her sisters. "Are you alright sweetie?" she asked softly brushing her hair out of her face. Paige didn't answer but Prue could see what Phoebe was talking about. Her bottom lip was trembling and as Phoebe held her she could feel her leg and arm muscles contracting and relaxing quite quickly. "Come on angel," Phoebe said softly, let's go inside and have some dinner and then we can all go shopping okay?" Again she didn't receive an answer from Paige. "Come on my little one, we'll go inside and cuddle for a bit okay?"
Prue followed her sisters in and then went to see Piper. She pulled a bottle of water out of the fridge and sat down on a bar stool, watching Piper make dinner. Glancing quickly at her sister Piper put her spatula down and brushed her hands over Prue's forehead. "What are you doing?" "I'm trying to get the worry lines off your face before you turn into an old hag at the age of 30," Piper teased. Prue couldn't help but smile. "Nah, I won't look like a hag till at least 35." "So tell me why you're getting them now please," Piper instructed. Nick just said some things to me that I'm not really sure if we should do. "Why? What did he say?" Piper asked and her curiosity started to peak. "Look, what he told me based on her file, is that she was pretty much a slave in her last house. They didn't teach her to eat properly or how to be a kid, or how to play, they taught her how to work and nothing but. We have to teach her how to be a kid again." "So far I don't see a problem, but go on," Piper interjected as she started to boil some water for hotdogs. "He said we can't be playmates we have to be parents, she can't think she's got 3 new friends. And I got the distinct impression that we have to force her to do stuff she doesn't want to do yet. We have to push her till she brakes and that poor child has been broken enough," Prue stated as the tears threatened to spill. Piper moved over to her and gave her a reassuring hug. "Hey listen, we are all in this together right? You don't have to do this on you're own. Yeah it sucks, but we'll figure out how to do it together okay? You don't have to raise her alone like you did me and Pheebs, you've got help now. Take advantage of it."
"Paige sweetie, ready to go shopping?" Prue asked gently. Paige nodded. They all got their coats and Prue helped Paige into hers. Piper pulled out the keys to her jeep and drove the twenty minutes it took to get to Target. Turning off the engine she turned to look at Paige. Phoebe was playing with Paige most of the time. "Paige do you want to ride in the cart or have us carry you?" Paige requested to ride in the cart. Prue pushed her through the aisles and watched her new little sister’s reactions. Piper walked next to Phoebe just behind the two of them to watch how Paige reacted as well. Paige was a little timid but admired the cute clothes and seemingly fun toys. Stopping in the toy aisle she watched as Phoebe picked up a toy and demonstrated it to her. Paige smiled and held her hands out for the toy. Paige looked a little confused, she had never had many toys before and if she did they were never new like the one Phoebe held before her. Piper smiled. "Pheebs, let her test it," Piper giggled. Paige took the toy and looked at it for a moment before pushing a button. Prue just stood watching. A million thought were running through her mind, how many toys, how many clothes, the new bed. All kinds of things, she wanted to make sure she did this right.
The toy made a sound causing Paige to jump and bringing Prue out of her thoughts. Paige curled up her nose and handed the toy back. Phoebe giggled a little as she put the toy back on the shelf. "Here honey," Prue said grabbing a toy piano, try this one. Paige pressed down on a key and a lovely sound came out. She pressed another happily. More notes came out of the object as Paige pressed different keys. Piper smiled and watched as Phoebe and Prue had smiles increasing on their faces. Paige smiled "Can I have this one" she asked very quietly. "Sure." Phoebe answered. "You like the music?" Prue asked running her fingers through Paige's hair. Paige nodded. "Okay, would you like any other music ones?" Prue asked softly. Phoebe grabbed another musical toy from the shelf. It looked like a xylophone but it had many colors on it and handing it to her little sister she waited for Paige to play with it Paige played with it for a second but shook her head. "We don't like that one?" Piper asked curiously "I like that," Paige said pointing to the shelf where there was a doll with long brown hair wearing a purple dress was sitting. Phoebe picked it up carefully and handed it to Paige. Paige brought the doll to her chest and held it tightly. "Oh she's pretty," Piper smiled. "What's her name?" Paige licked her lips "Her name is Holly!" "That's a good name sweetie," Piper smiled. Paige’s smile grew. "Really? thank you" "Welcome," Piper smiled in return.
Prue eventually pushed the carriage out of the toy aisle towards the clothes. It was time to move forward on the “mission” so to speak. Standing in front of a growth chart, Piper studied it carefully while, Prue looked around and Phoebe fussed over Paige. Piper sized Paige up. "According to the charts she should be in 3t but this is all way to big" Piper said pulling a pair of size 3t jeans off a rack. Prue sighed "Well she is going to need some clothes to grow into" Piper nodded she smiled "They are cute look at the flowers on them" Piper placed them in the cart. Piper found a pink and white dress she fell in love with it right away. Paige smiled "Pretty!" "What other kinds of clothes do you want sweetie?" Phoebe asked as she grazed through the clothes on the racks. Paige saw a red top that was almost exactly like what Prue was wearing. "TAT" she said trying to grab for it. "Hey," Prue scolded gently. "Please calm yourself and I think you are too young for that top." "You may have another red one if you want." "But it's in tis aisle it meant for kids" she said whining. "I know baby, but you can't have that one, you can have any other red top you want," Prue tried to explain. Paige crossed her arms over her chest. "No I want that red one!" "I'm sorry babes, but you can't have that shirt, any other red shirt is okay," Prue said again. Piper sighed, "Look at these," Piper said holding out a pair of kaki over alls with flowers stitched on the butt. Paige nodded "They nice" she grumbled. Piper rolled her eyes. "Prue lets just pick out her clothes she is three, most three year olds don't pick out their own clothes."
"Shouldn't she have some say in her clothes?" Phoebe asked carefully. She did not want to have a fight in the middle of the store with Piper, although Paige was working pretty close to it between Prue and herself. Piper shrugged "A little but we didn't have much say until we were older" Piper added. "Yeah I guess," Prue sighed. "Okay then just pick out some things for her, I suppose." Then she took a quick glance at Paige who didn't seem to thrilled by this idea. "I want that shirt please" hoping the please would help her.
"No baby, I'm sorry," Prue said again. "But we're going to pick out your big girl bed next, and you can have your say in the bed and the sheets and the lamps okay?" Prue asked. She was hoping that telling Paige she could pick out her own room would help a little. Paige sighed and stuck out her lower lip. She crossed her arms over her chest and watched as Prue Piper and Phoebe tossed clothes and pjs into the cart. But her attitude changed the second she saw all the beds she could pick from. "Alright babes," Phoebe said pulling Paige out of the cart and setting her on her hip. "You lay down on the bed you think you like and tell us if you want it okay?" Phoebe instructed. "Just pick the one that feels the most comfortable to you." Prue added. Paige nodded and wiggled out of Phoebe's grip. She ran right to the pink princess bunk bed that had a slide coming off of it. "I want dis one" Prue just giggled at her. "Well who's gonna sleep on the other bed? Surely you can't sleep on both beds at once can you?" Prue asked. Paige rolled her eyes. "No, but Holly and my udder dolly gotta seep on a bed too" Paige said with a serious tone and face on. Prue glanced at Phoebe and then at Piper as if to say, help me here. "Well Piper what do you think?" Prue asked. After all Piper was the very one who told her in the kitchen that she wasn't alone anymore. She had her sisters for help and now she was going to use it. Piper shrugged "I think it's kind of cool" she whispered over to Prue. "Besides if she has a bad dream one of us can sleep in there with her. Or when she has slumber parties" Piper started rambling. Prue just rolled her eyes. "Pheebs?" "I'm kinda with Piper on this one," she answered timidly. "Alright missy Paige, you can have this bed, but you have to ask me nicely. No more demanding things alright?" Prue said giving her new little sister a hug. Paige clapped her hands together. "Oh thank you" Piper smiled. "All right sweetie you need to look at sheets and blankets and stuff." Prue noticed Paige yawn but then went back to smiling. It was getting late for her and she still needed a bath tonight. "Okay come on angel," Prue said picking her up. Phoebe took over pushing the cart while Prue carried Paige to the next aisle. Paige saw blanket set that had Care Bears on it. " I wan dat one pease" Piper noticed that they had things under control. "Um I am going to go get a jogging stroller. I'll be back soon." Prue nodded and picked up the bag with the picture of the care bears on it. Paige let another yawn slip and Prue looked at her. "Sweetie, do you want to stop now? Sissy wants to give you a bath tonight." Paige shook her head. " NO I NOT WANNA" she said a little loud. She had never done this before it was so much fun.
"Okay shhh," Prue said shushing her. "Why don't you pick out a lamp for the nightstand." Prue said changing the subject. Phoebe grabbed another Care Bears bedspread this one was different. "She has two beds" Phoebe said answering Prue's questioning look. Paige saw a nightstand that was white and pink and the draw handles were crowns. "I like dis " She then pointed to pink glitter lamp. Piper retuned seconds later with another shopping cart with a jogging stroller box in it. She looked at what Paige was pointing too. "I really think she likes pink" Piper said with a little disgust in her voice Prue smiled at her. "Alright last thing we need is pillows, you can have two only," Prue instructed. When you've finished we'll go home alright?" Paige nodded but when they got to the pillow isle she could not make up her mind. There were so many. Pink ones purple ones shaped ones. She grabbed a pink one and a purple one and a teal one and yellow one. "I dese ones." "No Paige, just two!" Phoebe spoke up. Prue had told her before they left how hard this might be, but she really did need help and they all needed to be firm with her. Paige's lower lip stuck out. "No all of em" "No Paige, just two," Phoebe continued. "You heard what Sissy said, just two." The three sisters could see the wheels turning in Paige's head. She was trying hard to figure out how to get all four pillows. " But I gots two beds. I need em for bof of dem" she stated. "Paige, I said two only," Prue instructed. Paige was getting frustrated. "I Want them all" She said stomping her foot. Beginning to loose her patience Prue looked at her. "Paige Lindsay Halliwell!" she hissed with frustration. Piper and Phoebe looked shocked. Paige was not a Halliwell yet, but Prue was treating her like she was. That had to be a good sign. "Pick two out and let's go home. And if you can't pick out two by yourself, Sissy will pick them out for you, understand me?" Prue scolded. Paige threw the pillows at her and burst into tears. She ran to Phoebe and tried to climb up her. Piper picked the pillows up and sighed. Placing the pink and purple pillows in the cart, she looked at Prue. "She didn't listen to you," she stated simply. Prue nodded. "You and Pheebs go pay for the stuff and order the bed. I'm going to sit with her in the car." Prue took the hysterical little girl from Phoebe and Phoebe just looked at her. "Don't you know," she said softly. "Don't worry Pheebs, once she calms down, we'll talk, it's okay." With that Prue carried a hysterical little girl out to the car.
Paige was screaming as her and Prue went out side. But once they got into the car she got tense "Peas don't spank me I sorry I do disses at you house and scrub toilet but peas no hit" Prue held her tight as she tried to back herself up against the far end of the jeeps back seat. "Shhh, it's okay baby, shhh, calm down," she soothed gently. "I'm not gonna hit you baby, no one will ever hit you in OUR house okay?" Paige looked at her "Ok" she said moving closer to Prue. "I scrub you toilet for you" Paige said wiping her tears away. Prue rubbed her back and combed through her long hair. "No baby, when we get home, Sissy's gonna give you a bath and then you are going to bed. I don't want to see you scrubbing any toilets understand?" Prue didn't know where she'd gotten scrubbing toilets from, but she seemed dead set on doing it. Those things were not something three year olds did. It just filled her with rage at the thought of having someone force this precious little girl, no, her sister, to scrub a toilet. Paige sniffed "No soap in my eyes eeder" Paige stated.
Piper and Phoebe came out with a sales guy carrying the box that had the bed in it. "Prue this is going to take forever to set up" Piper whined. "Piper, relax, she can sleep with us tonight, we'll set it up tomorrow alright?" "The rules?" Phoebe asked. "Oh forget the rules for one more night Pheebs," Prue said softly. Piper sighed with relief and Prue looked at her. "I think someone needs to have a bath and go to bed," Prue stated. Phoebe smiled cheekily and wrapped her arms around Piper. "I think a few somebodies do," she beamed. Piper just slugged her and they all got in the car to go home. Piper was about to start the car but she couldn't "As much as I hated to admit this Phoebe's right I am tired" She whined "and I don't wanna drive." Piper crawled in next to Prue in the back seat and rested her head on Prue's shoulders. Phoebe glanced back. "I feel like a cab driver" Prue licked her lips. Piper noticed this. "Just tell her that what she did was not ok" See how much she understands. "I'll do it at bath time," she said. In the short time Phoebe had been driving Paige had fallen asleep. "You need to go to bed too baby girl," Prue said looking at Piper. "I will believe me, I'm kissing her goodnight when she goes for her bath and then I'm going to bed." Prue sighed. She was going to have an interesting time explaining to Paige why what she did was wrong. During the drive, Prue thought about how to explain to Paige that tempertantrums were not right.
Piper and Phoebe carried everything in while Prue took Paige straight up for her bath. Paige helped Prue get her clothes off. But she stiffened right away. "No soap in my eyes" she stated again. Prue shook her head. "No honey I will not put soap in your eyes" Paige relaxed a little and allowed Prue to set her in the tub. "Cold it's too cold" Paige started to cry. Prue put her fingers in the tub. The water was as warm as it normally was when Prue ran a tub for Phoebe or Piper. Prue narrowed her eyes. "Paige it's plenty warm" Paige shook her head. "No, Shelly said hot hot water onwy makes me pure ‘gain" Prue picked up the little girl and cuddled her before forcing her to pay attention. "Look at me miss, you can not listen to what Shelly told you. She was wrong. You are the purest little girl in the world understand me." She was trying to put it in words that Paige would understand. Paige nodded "But Shelly told me I was bad daz why people leaved me. Are you gonna leave me too cuz I wanted all four pillows. But I not listen to Shelly if you want me not too." "Oh baby," Prue sighed. "I will not leave you and neither will Piper or Phoebe, but not more throwing temper tantrums okay. When I tell you two pillows only, I mean it." Prue didn't realize how harsh her words will, till she saw Paige's eyes start to tear again. "I sorry I sorry I sorry" Paige said over and over until Prue kissed her nose. "Shh lets take a bath ok" Paige nodded but stood up "You take baf wif me" Paige asked her eyes pleading "I is kinda scared of baf-ez." Piper came in the bathroom just as Prue was stripping to get in the bath with her. Whenever Piper got too tired she got headaches. Piper smiled "I came into say good night I can't stay up a second longer." Prue grabbed Piper's head in her hands and kissed each of her cheeks when Piper bent down to kiss her. "Get some sleep sweet girl." Piper smiled at her special nickname "Prue Paige is going to need a special nick name from you too." Piper said kissing Paige's cheeks just as Prue had done to her. Paige was definitely over tired. Paige watched as Piper left the room. She suddenly got very scared and began crying. "Shhh you're alright my little one," Prue cooed softly at her. "No no, come back!" she yelled. "Shhh, Piper just went to bed, you'll see her in the morning I promise baby." “NO PIPPA!” she cried hysterically. After finishing the bath, that Paige complained about how cold it was the entire time, Prue dressed her in a pair of new pajamas and carried her into Phoebe's room. "We came for bed," Prue said above the noise of the screaming little girl. "I see that," Phoebe smiled. Hugging her tightly she helped her to lay down. After much struggle and convincing Paige had cried herself to sleep, safely snuggled between two of her older sisters. Phoebe noticed the worry lines across Prue’s forehead. Tracing them gently she smiled at her. “Tomorrow is another day,” she said softly. Prue nodded and kissed Phoebe’s forehead. Eventually sleep took over everyone.
The next morning Phoebe and Prue awoke to the soft sobs of a little girl. Prue sat up and did Phoebe and looked at Paige. “She’s still dreaming,” Phoebe stated softly. “You wake her up, I’m going to see if Piper is up yet.” Phoebe nodded but glanced at her clock. “Prue don’t bother. It’s 4am.” Phoebe then looked at her new little sister. Her face was contorted and she was beginning to thrash about. The whimpers were becoming louder. The sobs got stronger and eventually the little girl sat up crying. Her sisters were on her like a shot. Phoebe pulled Paige into her lap and began rocking back and forth. Prue moved close in front of them, and just watched. "Paige baby," Phoebe said softly. "What happened love?" Paige shook her head. "Nofing" she said quietly. She put her thumb in her mouth. Phoebe looked to Prue for help and gripped Paige tighter. She continued to rock in silence until Prue broke it. "Would you like a drink baby?" Prue asked gently. Paige nodded "pease" she said very quietly. Paige sat up and wrapped her arms around Phoebe's neck. "I is sorry I woke you up." "It's alright baby," Phoebe soothed gently. "It's alright angel, Sissy's gonna get you a drink, and then we'll go back to sleep okay?" Phoebe felt the tense body in her arms and tried to reassure her as best she could. Paige let the tears flow. "My dreams hurt me" she mumbled. Phoebe wasn't quite following but she continued to rock her back and forth. "It's alright my little one, you're safe, I've got you."
At that point, Prue came back in the room with a sippey cup for water. "Here sweetheart," she said gently. Handing the cup to Paige, Phoebe took it instead and helped her to drink slowly. Paige drank until the sippey cup was gone. "I want Holly" She cried softly. They hadn't unpacked any of the bags and Holly was still in one. Paige crawled of Phoebe's lap and held her hand out to Prue. "We go get Holly" "Holly's still packed away baby, we'll get her as soon as we get up. How about we go sit in the rocker for a bit." Prue suggested. Her vision wasn't the best at 4am. Paige's lower lip stuck out. "No no no I want me Holly" Paige said tugging at Prue's hand. "Pease we go get her now pease" Prue looked at Phoebe. Phoebe shook her head. Prue was right, they had to be strong. Prue nodded and looked at Paige. "Look baby, we can sit in the rocker right now and after a while then we'll go get Holly okay? Holly is still in her bag sleeping, we don't want to wake her up." Prue tried to reason. Paige shook her head "No it not ok" She let go of Prue's hand and ran out of the room. She tried to remember what door it was. She chose the third door on the right. A smile came to her face when she saw the lump on the bed. She crawled up on to the bed and under the covers. She felt the arms around her seconds later along with a kiss. "What’s up little one" Piper's voice came out sleepily. Prue hung her head and felt Phoebe wrap her arms around her. "I'll go, and I promise we'll leave holly in the bag asleep." Smiling Phoebe walked into Piper's room. She heard the soft voices coming out of it and new Paige was there. Walking in she sat on the edge of the bed. Paige tensed a little and moved to Piper's lap. The tension did not go unnoticed by Piper.
"Ok what's going on" Piper said running her fingers over Paige's hair. "They won't wet me have Holly" "Paige sweetie," Phoebe said rubbing her eyes. "It's four am sweetheart. Holly is still sleeping. I'm very sure that Sissy would like to hold you though," Phoebe tried. Paige just scowled at Phoebe. "No I not want her to hold me I wanna sweep wif Pipur" Paige said placing her head on Piper's chest and closing her eyes. She put her thumb in her mouth. Phoebe just looked at Piper who nodded. Getting up she crawled back into her bed and cuddled up to her big sister. "Well at least she's not sleeping with Holly," Phoebe said softly. "Well that's good I suppose. Gives me time to cuddle my other baby though. Phoebe giggled and snuggled up to her sister. "We should get some more sleep," she said softly. "I agree," said Prue tiredly. Cuddled up together the two girls went to sleep until the alarms went off again at 6:30.
Paige was in a better mood the next morning. She crawled on to Prue's lap at the breakfast table. She wouldn't pick up her fork or eat anything. But she did lean into her sister and watched her sip on her hot coffee. "Don't get that on your skin" Paige warned. "It hurts Shelly put it on my hand when I made her wate." Prue nearly choked on her coffee, but decided to change the subject. "You know what sweetie, you need to eat breakfast, or Piper will be very sad.” Paige looked at the french toast in front of her. Piper had cut up for her but Paige couldn't do it. She felt uncomfortable doing it at the table. At her old house kids ate at their own table by themselves "Come on sweetie," Phoebe encouraged her. Prue set her coffee down and helped Paige pick up her fork. "Here baby, let me help okay?" Trying to bring the fork to her mouth she felt Paige squirm in her lap. "Alright, talk to me babes," Prue said trying to reason "I no wanna eat here" she whined. She burst into tears and pushed the plate away. Piper raised her eye brows. "Um Prue what do we do" "We feed her, she has to eat." Standing up she kissed her little sister. "Sissy has to go to work. Please eat for Piper baby." With that she kissed both her other sisters and went to work. Paige cried when Prue left. "NO COME BACK I BE GOOD I SORRY I SORRY I SORRY" She said dropping to her knees screaming. She was crying so hard she could barely breath. "I want sissy" she said when she felt Piper pick her up. "I made sissy weave" Phoebe's heart melted. Taking the tiny child from Piper, Piper heated up her breakfast. It was cold by now. Phoebe rubbed her back and held her tight. "Shhh, come on, you want to get Holly?" Phoebe asked softly. Receiving no answer and ragged breathing instead she sat down with Paige on her lap and Piper began to force feed her as gently as possible. The girl HAD to eat. She was too tiny and too thin.
Paige let her sister feed her but when she was done Paige grabbed the plate and fork from Piper and ran over to the sink. She climbed on the counter and sat by the sink trying to wash the dishes that were now in the sink. "Sweetie stop," Phoebe said quickly. Startling Paige the dish rattled and cracked. Paige quickly went to grab it and cut her finger. It wasn't deep but it was enough to bleed. Seeing the blood Piper reacted the only way she knew how. Piper quickly grabbed a towel and wrapped it around Paige's finger. She could feel her stomach going weak. "Phoebe I have to go to work. Piper kissed Paige "I love you baby I'll be back soon" Piper noticed Paige wasn't crying over her cut finger. Weird she thought as she kissed Phoebe goodbye "I don't have that much to do their" She said before she left. "Hold it!" Phoebe yelled after her. "You have to take her, Elise will pitch a fit," Phoebe explained pulling a bottle of peroxide out of the cupboard and rubbing it over Paige's finger. Paige looked confused by Phoebe's actions, but didn't want to interrupt the conversation. "Phoebe I can't take her this morning. We are getting our alcohol shipment and I can't have her there. Take her for awhile please" Piper said begging. "And tonight Prue you and I can set up a babysitting plan and maybe find a back up day care" Piper said with a smile. Phoebe was placing a band-aide on Paige's finger and picked her back up. "Well kiddo? Do you want to come to work with me for a while?" she asked looking at Paige. Before Paige could answer. "And you better come pick her up when you're done!" Phoebe scolded her sister. Piper nodded in agreement and kissed them both goodbye.
Paige stood next to Phoebe in the big office. Phoebe had dressed her in her pink and white dress and done her hair into pigtails. Paige felt pretty for the first time ever. "I pretty?" she asked Phoebe with hope in her eyes. "You my baby are so gorgeous everyone is going to love you," Phoebe smiled at her little sister. Phoebe worked steadily leaving Paige to get a little bored and look at the floor. It looked a little dirty to her. Then she spotted the water cooler. An idea came to her so fast. She ran to the water cooler and grabbed a cup of water. She ran back to the area she was standing at and dumped the cup on the ground. She watched as the water went flowing everywhere. "Oh, Sweetie, honey, what happened?" Phoebe asked running over to the puddle. "I was keein' da floor," she said in a tiny voice. Phoebe smiled a little at this, proud of Paige's intentions but not so proud with the mess on the floor. She was speechless for a moment, then, "Honey, why don't you help me clean this up." Paige thought her sister was mad at her. "I sorry!" she cried. Trying to hold back tears she looked pitifully at Phoebe. "I sorry, I sorry, i didn' means it," she cried. "No, baby, it's okay, I'm not mad. Let's clean the floor together." Phoebe said, realizing what her tone had said. Paige nodded and looked to Phoebe for direction. Phoebe headed to get some paper towels.
Elise chose that moment to walk in startling Phoebe and Paige. Phoebe's head popped up and she sat smiling at Elise, she had no idea what Paige had done. "Hi Elise, this is my little sister Paige," Phoebe said starting the introductions. She watched as Paige started to go into the shell that Phoebe, Prue, and Piper had worked so hard to bring her out of in the last two days. "Paige sweetheart, this is Elise, she's my boss," Phoebe said standing up from her chair. Elise smiled at her and then notice the puddle on the floor. "Ok why is my floor all wet Phoebe? Do you know what Kind of law suits I could get if someone slipped on this floor" Phoebe you really can't be bringing her into work. You need to get a babysitter or quit this job and take care of her full time because I don’t want to see the two of you in here together while you are working. DO I make my self clear? This is not a play ground" "Yes Elise I'll take care of it right away," Phoebe said picking up the phone. A million thoughts went through Paige. She feared that she might be sent away and was angry that someone was yelling at one of the only three people who made Paige feel safe and she was going to voice her opinion. "I sorry I sorry" Paige said crawling onto Phoebe's lap. "I no want you to go away I want you stay wif me forever you nice to me you no hurt me" Paige wailed.
"Shhh baby, it's okay," Phoebe cooed gently. "Hey it's me...I don't care Piper...now or I'm out of a job...yes she's hysterical...alright...I love you too." As Phoebe hung up the phone she sat down on the small couch that was across from her desk. Stretching out on the couch she rubbed Paige's back and spoke gently to her. Piper showed up ten minutes later and looked at the site of her sisters together. She noticed how pretty Paige looked and also how sad. "Oh I see two very beautiful girls laying on a couch" Paige looked up to see Piper. She smiled at her. "You tink I pretty too" Piper nodded "Yep and now Phoebe's had her fun with you it's my turn. What do you say we have some fun?" Paige nodded "You come back to me latter?" She asked Phoebe. Phoebe kissed her over and over again until she squealed. "You bet I will" Paige smiled and let Piper pick her up. "Bye Phoebe" Piper said walking out the door. Phoebe picked up a paper towel and cleaned up the puddle on the floor. She threw the paper towel in the trash and sat down at her desk putting her head in her hands. She let her tears flow for a few minutes. Paige was so sweet and so special and here she thought she needed to clean all the time. Once she finished she felt a little better and wrote her column. She only hoped Paige didn't decide to help clean the manor.
Paige was all giggles by the time they got back to the manor. Piper had told Paige stories about Phoebe when Phoebe was little. "She was silly" Paige said as she wrapped her arms around Piper's neck. Piper carried her into the house. "Paige lets get you into some play clothes so we don't get your dress dirty" Paige narrowed her eyes. "Pway clothes?" She asked confused "Yes baby, play clothes. We have to keep your dress pretty right?" Piper reasoned. "Here, let's put you in some jeans and a long sleeve top." Pulling out the clothes, she looked at Paige. "Do you want to keep your pig tails or do you want a pony tail?" Piper asked carefully. Paige looked confused no one had ever let her have so many choices Shelly just threw clothes on her and ran a brush through her hair like once a week. Paige's lower lip started to stick out. "I do not know" "Aww, it's okay love," Piper said softly. "Here, step in," Piper said holding out the jeans. After she stepped in, Piper smiled at her. "Good sweetheart, you know what? You look so pretty that we'll leave your pig tails in okay?" Paige just nodded. "Come on love, to the park we go," Piper beamed at her little sister.
"The Park?" Paige's eyes got big. "I've never been to a park" Paige licked her lips "I saw once on tv a girl go down a swide it wooked scary then her mommy went wif her you go wif me" Paige said with a bright smile. Piper giggled as they left the house and got in the car. Paige was babbling happily the whole time. "Yes baby, I'll go down with you and we can go on the swings too alright?" Pulling up to the park, Piper pulled Paige out of the car. "Do you want to walk, or do you want me to carry you?" Paige grabbed Piper's hand and started running to the playground. "Piper wook the slide is so big" Paige licked her lips with excitement. Piper was happy to see Paige smiles so bright. After playing for a few hours at the park, Piper noticed that Paige was looking tired. She wouldn't admit it, but Piper could tell all the signs from her years of baby-sitting. "Let's go home for lunch baby," she said to her sister. In her mind she was determined that Paige was going to get a nap, and she was going to set up her bed, or at least start on it. Pulling onto the street, Piper saw the construction going on near the house and parked the car a few houses down the block. They got out and walked the rest of the way to the manor. They walked home, Paige smiling the whole way. She looked like a normal kid, skipping down the sidewalks, pulling Piper along. Piper was laughing too. They finally entered the manor and Piper set out to making lunch. Piper fixed sandwiches with the help of Paige. Paige liked the squeeze it bottles of mayonnaise and mustard. Piper laughed when it got a little out of control and got on her apron. At first, Paige was a little afraid of getting in trouble but was soon laughing too. Paige giggled at Piper, "Can I squeeze you more?" she asked politely. "No more on me but squeeze all you want on that sandwich" Paige nodded and squeezed more mustard on her sandwich. "K, I done!" she said smiling at Piper. Piper smiled back and put the rest of the sandwiches together. Paige climbed down off her chair and just stood at the table. She still wasn't sure of feeding herself. It was one thing the other girls were going to have to work on. Piper showed her by putting her own sandwich in her mouth. Paige still didn't really get it. Piper picked up Paige's sandwich and held it to her little sister's mouth. Paige took a bite. "Thank you," she said softly. Once she swallowed, a yawn escaped and her eyes looked really heavy. Piper gave her a few more bites before picking her up. "I think someone needs a nap." She said as she headed toward the stairs. Paige was so tired she didn't even notice Piper pick her up. Paige rubbed her eyes as Piper carried her up the stairs. "No nap I am not tired" Paige whined. "Pwease no nap" Piper sighed and rubbed her back. "Oh I think you are." "No I want to go back and pway at the park" Paige said as she put her head on Piper's shoulders however and closed her eyes. Piper could tell she was falling asleep so Piper stood in one spot and swayed until she could hear Paige’s steady breathing.
Prue looked to Piper. "So how was your day?" she asked, hoping at least one of her sisters would talk to her. "Good!" Paige answered for her. "We'z went to da park and had lotsa fun!" Piper sighed "Well I didn't get in trouble with my boss like Phoebe did" Piper said as she poured herself a glass of juice. "But like Paige said, that was our day." "Phoebe got in trouble?" Prue asked. Paige went tense at the mention of the afternoon. Then she heard Phoebe come in. "Hey Guys!" Phoebe called entering the kitchen. "Who's saying what about me?" She asked "Yeah ask her about it" Piper giggled. "Should I be worried?" Prue asked. "Yeah, Elise got a little mad about...just something." Phoebe didn't want to upset Paige by bringing up the exact topic but Prue got the gist of it.
"Everythings okay though right?" Prue asked. Phoebe nodded and then Piper stated what needed to be stated before she forgot. "Prue we are going to have to work out a day care system" "Yeah, that's a definite." Phoebe added. "Well baby girl," Prue said looking at Paige. "Do you want to come take pictures with Sissy tomorrow?" She asked while brushing her hair and stroking the side of her face "YEAH!" Paige exclaimed. Piper giggled "I think that mean she wants to go." "Okay well tomorrow we can go take pictures," Prue giggled. Paige looked at Prue and then told her about the bed. "Sissy! Come see my bed!" she smiled. Dragging Prue up the stairs by her hand she pulled her into her new bedroom. "See Sissy?" Piper groaned "I am not done setting it up though"
"Well I'll help you after dinner then." Prue reasoned. "You want some help in a little bit?" Phoebe asked, sneaking up behind them. Piper jumped "Phoebe never scare a woman with a tool in her hand."
Prue looked at Paige. "I think we should all go play now," Prue suggested. "And you need a break from this monstrous project.” Prue said looking at Piper. "But what about the bed, her room is a mess Prue" Piper whined. "Don't worry, we'll fix it later, we need to play!" she stressed the last bit. "Piper, go play, I'll work on it for a little bit." Phoebe pushed Piper out of the room. "NO, all of us, we all need to play!" Prue said strongly.
"But Prue you know I hate a mess" Prue intended to play with all her sisters tonight and she was actually a little anxious to play with the toys they bought the night before. "Piper I love you," Prue smiled. "but dry up," she said. Piper gasped "DRY UP!" Only Phoebe noticed Paige tensing. She did not need bickering. She was scared now. "Guys," Phoebe said quickly to her sisters. "No Y-E-L-L-I-N-G would be good," she said. The all looked to Paige who was fighting back tears. Piper sighed. "Sorry she mumbled" all though she wasn't happy right this second she had been playing with Paige all day and here was her chance to get work done on her room. "It's okay baby," Phoebe said softly. Picking up the tiny girl she went to carry Paige downstairs. "Here, you come play with me and Sissy and Piper can figure out what they want to do now alright?"
Paige nodded her eyes got wide when she saw the back yard. "We have a swing" she said pointing to an old swing attached to the branch of a tree. Phoebe carried her out to the tree and sat her on the swing. Placing her on her lap they swung together. Meanwhile inside Prue apologized to Piper for telling her to dry up. "Sorry Sis, didn't mean it, it just slipped out. So how was your day?" Prue said sincerely. Piper smiled "It was ok, I played with Paige all day or at least I tried to get her to play I also tried to convince her she didn't have to do the dishes" Piper stated sitting down on the couch. "Prue I think you should go play with her too but I would really like to get her bed set up." "You sure you don't want help? I can stay and help you. The faster we get it done, then you can take your own nap and I'll go play with Paige. Did she have a nap today?" Prue added quickly. Piper nodded "She took a short one" Piper yawned "You can help me if you want to." "Maybe you should take a nap and let me work on the bed." Prue smiled at her.
Piper yawned again and tugged at her hair a little something she only did if she was really tired. She didn't realize she did it but Prue and Phoebe knew it was a sign. "No Prue I started it I'll help finish it I am good" "Alright miss, go to bed, you're whiney and cranky and I'm ordering you to bed." Piper sighed "I am not cranky or whiney" she while whining. "I'll nap as soon as I help you finish I can't leave such a big project to just you" Prue sighed. "I understand that, but you started it on your own, so I can help finish it alright?" Piper shook her head in defiance. "Piper listen to me, three year olds can wear you down fast, believe me I'm finding out pretty fast. So please just humor me and go to bed." Prue said strongly.
Piper sighed "On one condition no make that two. You don't hurt yourself and you tuck me in" Piper used her sweetest smile on her big sister. Just seeing how much Paige went through in her short life made her realize how special she was to have such a great big sister and a little extra cuddling time was screaming out to her. "You got it sweet girl. Now move it," Prue said guiding her to her bed. Piper laid down and Prue sat on the edge of the bed. She tucked her in and kissed her good night. The bed could wait for a few minutes. She went down and watched Phoebe and Paige playing tag in the back yard, although Phoebe seemed to be enjoying it a little more than Paige. Paige was getting tired and thirsty but she didn't know how to tell Phoebe to stop in the last house they made her play games that she didn't want to play and she got smacked when she said no. But her eyes lit up when she saw Prue. "Sissy!" Prue knelt down and waited as Paige ran into her arms. "Hey sweetheart. Are you having fun playing with Phoebe?" Phoebe had walked up to them and smiled at the bond that was forming between the two. "Phoebe is great at playing tag isn't she?" Prue asked. She saw the tired look in her sister’s eyes but didn't want to mention it. She wanted Paige to learn to find and use her voice.
Paige nodded "She fun" She said as she put her head on Prue's shoulder. She stuck her thumb in her mouth and looked up at Prue’s wide eyes "You pretty eyes" She then looked away as if she committed a crime. "Paige?" Phoebe questioned. Prue caught it to, but let Phoebe handle it. "Paige Baby, what's the matter," she said gently. She pulled her face towards her so they were looking face to face. "Can you tell me what's wrong angel?"
Paige shook her head "No matter I fine" She squirmed to get out of Prue's arms. Once on the ground she went over to the swing and crawled onto it. Phoebe walked over to her. "Baby, listen to me, if it matters to you, I want to know about it and so does Sissy," Phoebe explained. "We want you to tell us anything you want to, you don't have to be afraid here." Phoebe was trying to use little words so Paige would understand. "Can I at least have a hug?" Phoebe said softly. Paige nodded and wrapped her arms around Phoebe's neck. "Can I ask questions" She said a little unsure of her self. "Like tan I have juice pwease" Paige said in a shaky voice. "Sure you can baby, we can go inside and have juice and a snack and see if Piper is awake yet." With that Phoebe carried her inside and sat with her on the bar stool. "Maybe Sissy will get you juice and a snack okay?" Prue nodded and got out some carrots and a glass of milk for everyone.
Paige took the carrots and nibbled them she could handle finger foods just fine it was using the stupid forks that got to her. She drank her milk and smiled "Tank you I do dishes now,” she asked. "No sweetie," Phoebe said quickly. "I told you this morning no doing dishes. Why don't you go watch some tv. In fact I will go watch it with you." "Yes," Prue said quickly. "You two watch Sesame Street, and Sissy is going to finish your bed." Kissing both her sisters the three went to do as they had planned. As Prue put the bed together, she could help but let a few tears fall. "My baby sister thinks she has to do dishes," she though to herself. She could only stop her tears by reassuring herself that she, Piper, and Phoebe would give her back what they knew she missed out on.
Phoebe was downstairs watching Sesame Street with Paige. She just sat mesmerized. She didn’t play along, she didn’t count, she didn’t sing, she just sat. Phoebe tried to distract herself my coming her fingers through her hair. The pigtails she put in that morning had come loose during the day, so she took them out and let Paige’s hair hang naturally. Once the show was over, Paige was still sitting quietly. “Paige baby,” Phoebe said softly. “Are you feeling okay?” Paige nodded and snuggled into her sister. “Well what do you say we play a game. Does that sound okay?” Paige shook her head. "I not wanna play I wanna watch TV" Paige whined. "PWEASE" Paige asked her eyes dancing with hope. "Okay sweetie, if you want to, is there anything special you want to watch?" Phoebe said gently. "I wike Price is rite or bwues clues" Paige said sweetly. She snuggled into Phoebe. "Hmmm, I think Blues Clues is on in a little while. Would you like to play before it comes on." Phoebe was trying to get her to open up. Paige shook her head and sighed "No" She whined again. She started sucking her thumb. She yawned and rubbed her eyes. "Alright sweetie, well we can watch Blue's Clues but you have to promise to play along too okay? I'll even do it with you." Paige sighed "NO" She shouted "We no talk while TV on that is bad" She got up and started to stomp her foot. "Bad bad bad we no do that" Paige then burst into tears and moved to the couch and buried her head in the pillows. Phoebe sighed and picked up the little girl. Hushing her she watched as Prue and Piper came down the stairs wondering what the fuss was.
"What happened? What's bad?" Prue asked quickly. Phoebe just shook her head and continued to do her rock-n'-walk, hoping that would bring some peace to the little girl.
Piper yawned and stretched Prue had just woken her up after an hours nap. She said that Piper had to get up or she wouldn't sleep during that night. "Phoebe why don't you try and get her to drink a cup of milk that always calmed you down when you were crying" Piper raised her eye brow "And let her lean into you while she is drinking it. That’s what always calmed you down." Phoebe nodded and carried Paige off to the kitchen. Prue looked at Piper as they left and when she was sure she was out of earshot, she talked to Piper. "Did she do that with you this afternoon about anything? Ya know tell you something was bad." Piper shook her head. "No not really she was more interested in playing on the slide like she saw a mother and daughter do on TV" Piper said sitting on the couch wrapping a throw around her. Prue nodded and sat next to her. Phoebe came back in and Paige had a sippey cup in her hand and when they sat down, she placed it in her mouth with Phoebe's help and drank. Shortly there after blue's clues came on and Prue had an idea. When Steve asked a question, she answered it. "And what do we do write our clues in?" Steve asked. "In our handy, dandy," he said dragging it out a little. "NOTEBOOK," Prue said loudly smiling. Piper looked at her and giggled, but she understood what was happening so she started to play along too. Paige just stared at them.
"You not loud to talk when TV on it bad" Paige said looking a little worried and disgusted that these grown ups didn't know that rule. "Why not?" Prue asked. "It's very fun, and it's not bad, we do it all the time here. Phoebe even yells at the little energizer bunny," Prue smiled. Phoebe giggled and looked at Paige. "It's true, no bunny bangs a drum THAT much!" she said smiling. Paige was baffled she didn’t' understand and didn't know how to ask what was going on. Paige shook her head "No no no tv no more" she squirmed out of Phoebe's grasp and ran up the stairs to her room. She grabbed Holly and sat herself down in a corner. Prue looked at her sisters. "I guess I'll go talk to her," she said. Standing up, she went to Paige's room and knocked on the door. Not receiving an answer Prue called out to her. "Paige baby, it's Sissy, I'm gonna come in okay?" Still not receiving an answer she took a deep breath and went in the room. Leaving the door open she knelt on the floor and held out her arms. "Do you want a hug angel?" She waited with baited breath for an answer. Paige got up and ran right into Prue's arms. She wrapped her own tiny arms around Prue's neck. "You no be bad and get hurt I want you here wif me" She said sobbing. "Oh my sweet baby," Prue said rubbing her back. "Paige baby, you have to listen to me." Prue pulled back so they were staring at each other eye to eye. "Nothing bad is going to happen to you in this house ever. We won't hit you ever. Do you understand that baby?" Prue took another deep breath. "Okay listen to me. I'm not going anywhere and Piper and Phoebe and Sissy WANT you to talk back to the tv. Okay?" Paige nodded "Ok I watch tv wif you as long as you no weave me" Paige agreed. "I want you to understand something sweetheart. I will only leave you to go to work, but I will always come back." Prue said. She didn't want to make false promises about never leaving her. She did have to go to work. Paige nodded again "I beive you"
"Good girl, are you ready to go down and be with the rest of our sisters?" Prue smiled.
Paige nodded "es I ready" she said sniffling.
Prue lifted her and set her on her hip. "Let's go wash your face first." Carrying Paige to the bathroom she grabbed a few tissues and dried her eyes and helped her to blow her nose. Once she had fully relaxed, Prue carried her down stairs and the four watched the rest of Blue's Clues. When they were done Piper decided it would be a good time for her to start dinner. "Dose anyone have anything special they want for dinner" she asked with a smile on her face. "I think Paige should pick," Phoebe smiled. The older girls really wanted her to eat, or at least try to eat on her own. If she was going to get a babysitter she was going to learn to have to. "What do you say baby girl, what's it gonna be for dinner. You can have ANYTHING YOU want," Prue said. She stressed the last bit so Paige understood. Paige curled up her nose. "I not know" she whined overwhelmed by that choice. "Okay, okay. How about we go in with Piper and we look and then we'll pick out something together is that better?" Phoebe suggested.
Paige sighed but agreed. She followed her sister's into the kitchen and let Piper pick her up and put her on her hip. "Lets see what we have" After about five minutes of looking Paige never said anything. Piper had showed her everything they had too. Noticing how sleepy and upset Paige looked, Prue went and took her from Piper. "Alright I think we should have hot dogs with french fries tonight," Prue said. Keeping Paige calm was now the main goal. She decided that having her learn to feed herself was not important. She still wasn't secure with her surroundings yet Prue decided that came first. Piper sighed and went to making dinner. She didn't really like hot dogs all that much but arguing with Prue was never really a good idea especially when she had her mind made up about something.
Dinner went farely well. Paige had to be fet but at least she was eating. After dinner, Phoebe took Paige to watch Mary Poppins while Piper and Prue finished cleaning up from dinner. Phoebe saw how tired Paige was. Her eyes kept closing and opening towards the end of the movie. Before Mary Poppins was even over, Prue decided it was time for bed. After giving Paige a gentle bath, she went to put her to bed. The problem was that the water woke her up. Now she was over tired and couldn't go to sleep. "Come on baby, it's time to go to sleep in your big girl bed." Prue coaxed. Paige was happy to put on her new pink pj's to go with her new pink bed. She climbed up on the top bunk and went down the slide just as her and Piper did that morning. "Come on Paige, it's time for bed now, you can slide tomorrow okay?" Prue said as she sat on the bottom bunk, watching the little girl actually be happy for the time being. Paige sighed "I not wanna sweep down on tat bed I wanna sweep on top bunk" "That's fine honey, but it is time for bed. Come on climb up here." Prue then pulled a book off the night stand and started to read. She finished reading the book and then kissed Paige goodnight. Paige got tense and reached for Prue with panic in her voice. "No no no sweep not now" Paige started crying. "Baby, it's time for bed, come on lay down for Sissy," Prue tried to reason. She pulled herself up on the top bunk and cuddled up next to Paige. "See Paige, Sissy's gonna go to sleep too." "No I wanna drink and Piper and Phoebe not said good night to me" Paige struggled to sit up. "Alright alright, shhh, call them in here," Prue said.
In the tiniest voice Paige obeyed. Prue let a smile go across her face. "No no, like this. PIPER PHOEBE!" Prue called. Piper and Phoebe came in pretty quickly. "We need something for Missy Paige here to drink and we all need to say goodnight." Piper nodded "I'll go get her a sippey cup of milk" Piper said leaving the room. Paige tried to squirm out of Prue's arms. She finally managed. "Wook Pheebe wook" Paige said as she slid down the slide. "Wee it is fun" Phoebe caught the grimace on Prue's face and smiled at Paige. "I see sweetheart, it looks like a lot of fun and you can have a lot more fun tomorrow. Right now though, it's time for bed," Phoebe explained gently. Paige shook her head "No I need you to read me a story first pwease" "Sissy didn't read you a story?" Phoebe asked questioningly. She saw Prue wave her hand as if to say go on read the story. "Alright well Phoebe will read you a story but you need to lay down next to Sissy first okay?" Paige sighed and laid down next to Prue. But a few minutes later she popped up. When Piper came in the room. "Piper you read me a story Pwease" Piper looked at Prue asking for answer.
"Paige sweetheart," Prue said trying to keep her calm. "Why don’t Phoebe and Piper read the story together." She really wanted Paige to go to sleep. "You know what we have to get up early and take pictures tomorrow remember? We need to lay down and go to sleep." Quickly thinking, she readjusted herself. Sitting up, she pulled Paige into her lap and cradled her while she drank her milk. "Now Piper and Phoebe can ready you a story together. Piper took the book from Phoebe and read a few pages before handing it back to Phoebe. Phoebe read a little more before handing it back to Piper. Piper finished the last of the book and put it back on the shelf. "Ok Paige you need to get some sleep ok baby" Paige nodded but wiggled out of Prue's arms again. She dove for the slide and went down it again. "wook you showed me how" Piper giggled but stopped giggling when she saw the glare in Prue's eyes. Piper picked her up and set her back on her bed.
"Paige, let's lay down now. Kiss Piper and Phoebe good night." Paige did so and both of them told her how much they loved her and to be good for Sissy." Once they left the room, Prue looked at Pagie. "So you want Sissy to stay with you or do you want me to go to my own room too?" Prue asked carefully. Paige sighed "I know sweep I pway I not sweepy you pway wif me?" "No my baby girl, it is time for bed. We can play tomorrow all you want, but right now it's bed time. Now do you want me to stay with you or do you want to sleep on your own." Prue lectured.
"I NO SWEEP" Paige screamed. "You no stay wif me you being mean" Paige was crying by now. Taking a deep breath Prue picked up the tiny girl. Holding her tight to her body she moved to the rocking chair. "You are very over tired my love, come on bed time." Prue received tears for answers, but just kissed her little sister. Rocking back in forth in the glider they purchased the day before, she got Paige to sleep. An extra ten minutes of rocking made sure Paige was asleep. Placing her ever so gently on the lower bunk, she kissed her and went to her own bed. Paige was sleeping soundly when she got that feeling she had to pee. She quickly sat up but it was too late she could feel the wet warmth around her. She put her head in her hands and started to cry. She didn't know what to do. She didn't know where anything was in this house there was no way she could wash her sheets by morning.
Phoebe heard the soft sobs coming from the bedroom and got up to investigate. "Paige sweetie, it's Phoebe," she said softly opening the door. Walking in she found Paige sitting in the middle of the bed and tears were pouring down her cheeks. Paige sucked in her breath. "I bad I bery bad I made a mess" She wailed Phoebe scooped her up and cuddled her. She ignored the wetness that was now on her own lap. She decided that it was bath time for a certain young lady. "You weren't bad angel, we just need to clean you up is all." Phoebe explained.
Paige squirmed "I wash my sheets if you show me where washer is" She said crying but in a serious tone. Phoebe took a deep sigh. "You don't have to do that baby," she tried to explain although Paige looked very serious. "No I do I have to I made mess I clean up" Paige said wiggling out of Phoebe's grip. "Okay stop, stop," Phoebe said gently. "Listen to me, what makes you think you need to clean this. I will clean it up for you. You look very tired babes. Why don't we clean you up and go back and cuddle in my bed, is that okay?" Paige shook her head. "Rules Phoebe Rules you make a mess you cwean it up. I cwean tis up first ten me ten go back to bed." Phoebe had to think quickly. "You know what. There are NEW rules in this house Paige. And Rule number one is no one under 13 can use the washer and dryer," Phoebe stated calmly. by this time Piper and Prue were standing just outside the door. They were proud of Phoebe for thinking fast on her feet and they new now that Paige was definitely their sister. She had all their traits, including stubbornness. "Rule number two you let big people take care of you. You don't worry about chores" Piper added. Paige sniffed "I no cook or cwean anymore" She asked in shock. "No honey" Piper responded with a smile. "Phoebe go get her cleaned up. Prue and I will take care of her bed. And I think tomorrow we should get those night time diapers for toddlers it will help with things I think" Phoebe scooped Paige up and carried her to the bathroom. She stood Paige on the sink and told her to hold her shoulders. "It's just warm water sweetie okay?" Phoebe explained. Washing her off and drying her up, she took her back to her bedroom. "Do you want to cuddle with me or do you want to go back and sleep on your other bed." Paige sniffed "I sweep wif you pwease" Paige asked sticking her thumb in her mouth and closing her eyes. "Okay sweetheart," Phoebe said softly. She carried her back to her bed and had Paige stay on her chest. Positioning her so she could hear her heartbeat. That was how Piper found the two of them the next morning.
"AWW guys its time to get up. Phoebes you and I have to work and Breakfast is ready"
Phoebe smiled at Piper. "Come on Paige, wake up angel? Piper made us breakfast," Phoebe said rubbing her back gently. "And you get to do with Sissy to work today."
Paige sat up instanly "Rewally tat today yay" She hopped off of Phoebe and ran to find Prue. "SISSY" She screamed running through the house until she found her sipping coffee. "Memeber careful wif tat stuff" She then tugged at Prue's pants "UP." Prue giggled and lifted her little sister onto her lap. "I will be careful with the coffee I promise. Now," she sighed. "Why is my baby so happy? I like you happy!" Prue smiled. "I get go wif you to you work. But I no was foors for you I no get you into trouble" Paige leaned happily into Prue. Prue tried to suppress a giggle. "That good, I'm happy you're coming to work with me too. First you need to eat breakfast though okay? Do you want me to feed you or do you want to try and eat by yourself?" Prue said carefully. Paige looked at the toast and eggs in front of her. She grabbed the toast and ate it herself. But she refused to pick up the fork. Piper came down the stairs later. "Prue I am going to pick up those good night things I thought about last night and um a booster seat but after that I'll be home around one ok" She then squinted "She needs to eat her eggs Prue" Piper said grabbing her phone and purse. "I love you both" She left quickly after that.
"So I guess you want me to feed you then?" Prue asked picking up the fork and cutting into the eggs. Paige nodded "Pwease" she then let Prue bring the fork to her mouth. She ate all of her breakfast. "I have milk now pwease" she asked quietly. "Sure baby," Prue said setting Paige on the floor. Glancing at the clock she noticed that if Phoebe didn't leave she was going to be late. "PHEEBS!" Prue called out making Paige jump a little. "Hurry! YOU'RE GONNA BE!" "Late. I know," Phoebe said walking into the kitchen. Prue gasped and clutched at her chest. "Sorry Prue," Phoebe smiled. Quickly grabbing some toast and kissed her sisters goodbye. Prue quickly grabbed her equipment and loaded it and Paige into her car. "Tis is so cool" Paige said eyeing Prue's camera equipment "I never had my picture taked me wanna see oter people gets ters taked"
"Tell ya what, after Sissy is done taking pictures of them, I'll take some of you does that sound like a good idea?" Prue asked while fixing her film and closing the shutter.
"RWEALLY" Paige asked hopping down on one foot. "That would be fun" She then sat quietly next to Prue's feet watching her take pictures of dogs and dog owners. The dogs made her a little nervous but she knew Prue was with her and it helped her relax a little
Finishing up the roll of film, the trainer said the dogs needed a break. Checking her watch she looked at Paige. "Come on love we'll have a snack and then Sissy will take your picture."
Paige looked around the dog park. "What we have for a snack?" "Piper put some cups of applesauce in my camera bag for us. And I think...." Prue said reaching into the bag. "Yep she did. She gave us pink spoons to use." Prue took out the cups and spoons and sat on a grassy area. Paige eyed the spoons. "I don't know Sissy" "Why baby? Don't you want applesauce? It's really good. Sissy's gonna eat it too. I'll even feed you." Prue said calmly. "But sissy oter people around they might laugh at me. Shelly say People laugh." Prue smiled at her warmly. "Come here angel," Prue said pulling her sister into lap. "Remember what Sissy told you baby? Remember what I said about you not listening to Shelly anymore?" Prue had now rested her chin gently on Paige's head and felt her nod. "And if anyone laughs, I'll yell at them, how's that?" "Otay I wike tat idea" Paige let Prue feed her and to her surprise no one laughed at her. In fact an old lady came by and told Prue how cute her baby was. "I free Sissy why she tink I baby" Paige asked once the lady left. "It's just because you tiny baby, she didn't understand is all," Prue said hoping that Paige would buy it. Paige nodded "I small I tawt I a big girl. Shelly said I a big girl and so did Nick Pwus I don't use bottles no more." Prue giggled. "No baby, you don't, you're a very big girl, you are MY big girl, and Piper's big girl, and who else?" Prue asked making Paige think. "Hmm Pheebe I tink." "Very good!" Prue said proudly. "You are so smart and I love you so much," she said squeezing her tightly.
Having the empty cup in her hand one of the dogs came over and started licking out of it, frightening Paige. "Sissy make it go away" She said crying and climbing up Prue wrapping her arms around Prue's neck. "Shhh," Prue soothed. "Look it's a nice puppy," Prue said petting it gently. "See he wanted applesauce too." Paige was still crying though. Just then the trainer called the dog back to him. "I am so sorry" the man said. "Old Rusty is just super friendly and love kids" Paige sniffed and looked at the dog. "Wuvs kids?" He nodded. Paige held out her hand and let the dog come back to her. The dog licked her fingers and she giggled. "Sissy animals are so cool." Prue smiled. "Does Rusty play any games?" Prue asked the man. "Yes he plays fetch. This is his ball." Prue took the ball and looked at Paige. "Kneeling down to her level she asked her if she wanted to play with Rusty. Nodding yes, Prue handed the ball to Paige. "Why don't you go play with Rusty for a while. Sissy needs to reload her camera.”
Paige nodded and threw the ball and chased after Rusty as he ran after the ball. She stopped a little it before he did and she started gut laughing when Rusty brought the ball back to her. "Eww" she said taking the wet ball and throwing it again. The afternoon went on uneventfully, until Prue said it was time to go. "Come on angel, we have to go home now," she called after Paige, who was still playing with Rusty. Paige shook her head. "NO" She shouted and stomped her foot. "Excuse me?" Prue said sternly. "I said no" Paige said as it was obvious but she wouldn't make eye contact with Prue. "Come over here missy," Prue said sternly. "Paige Lindsay, it is time to go home now." Paige pouted. But came over to Prue after saying good bye to Rusty. "I no wanna go home." "You don't want to go see Piper and Phoebe?" Prue asked calmly. Paige sighed "I wanna pway wif da doggy." Prue smiled. "I'm sure Sissy can fix that. I will call Mister Willis and talk to him about you playing more with Rusty okay?" Prue bargained. Paige sighed but nodded. She walked slowly to the car not wanting to leave. Prue scooped her up and kissed her a lot and all over. "Oh I love you so much," she smiled between kisses. "I want to just eat you all up!" Paige giggled at this and Prue continued. "I wuv you too" Paige managed to get out in between giggles. " I gwad you camed and gotted me." "So am I baby, so am I!" Prue said.
Then they drove home and Piper was in the kitchen making lunch. It was just after one and Prue realized that she was actually a little hungry. "Hi guys" Piper asked with a big smile on her face. "Did you guys have fun?" "Oh and I made hamburgers for lunch" "I don't know why I guess I was craving them" she said laughing. "Okay, Paige why don't you tell her what we did at the park?" Prue suggested. "I have to go put my stuff away." Paige ran to Piper and lifted her arms up. "Piper, we hadded so muss fun. Dere was a doggy, Sissy feeded me appasauce, an tanks for da pink spoons. But dis lady, her sayed I was Sissy's baby. Sissy said dat is cuz I is small but I is still big girl." Paige spit out quickly. "It sounds like you did have fun sweetie and you're welcome." "I did," Paige said letting a yawn slip through. "Are you tired now?" Piper asked, knowing very well that she was. "NO!" Paige said defiantly. "I wanna play more, but firs, I iz hungry pwease." "Well, we'll fix that," Piper told her, setting her down. "Do you want to help me?" Piper asked. Paige nodded. "Then let's wash our hands. and then, you can help me put the spices on the burger. How does that sound?" "Rweally fun!!!!" Paige said, laughing a little as the water went over her hands and then the soap and then Piper's hands, helping to wash them. Drying off her hands, on the towel Piper gave her, she waited for instructions.
Piper started to get some spices but she had a better idea. She Swung Paige up onto her shoulders. "Can you hand me that one sweetie?" She asked, pointing to a spice. Paige grabbed it and handed it down to her big sister. "What else?" She asked. "How 'bout that one?" Piper pointed to another. They continued gathering spices until they had everything they needed. Then, Piper put her hands under Paige's arms and swung her around onto her hip and continued to spin into the living room, making the house erupt in laughter. Prue stood on the stairs, having heard giggling and watched her two younger sisters enjoy each others company. She heard the door shut and looked down to see Phoebe entering quietly. She had heard the roaring laughter outside. That was a sound that had not been in the manor for quite some time. She tiptoed up the stairs and rested her head on Prue's shoulder before pulling her downstairs. Piper noticed and passed Paige to Phoebe. Soon, everyone was laughing, swinging Paige around from person to person and doing different fun things with her. Paige was in Phoebe's arms when everyone fell down from laughter and dizziness
"Zat was fun!!!!!!! Could we do it 'gain??? Not now dough, I'z dizzy. After many minutes of fun and recomposure, They headed into the kitchen to make lunch. Paige was held up to the counter by each of her sisters in turn. Still, everyone was laughing and finally, they sat down to enjoy a wonderful family prepared meal, with the whole family, laughing and enjoying life as it was given to them. "Piper did you get the goodnights?" Prue asked quickly. Piper nodded and glanced at Paige. "I don't want to go goodnight!" Paige argued. "You don't have to NOW angel, it's for later." Phoebe reassured her. "That's not what we mean baby," Prue said trying to help her understand. Remember how last night you wet the bed by accident. Well these will help. If you wet again, you'll just tell us and we only have to change your underwear." Prue explained. Paige nodded "Otay" she said through a yawn. "Why don't we go up to bed," Phoebe suggested quietly. "I'll even read you a story." Carrying the tiny girl upstairs Phoebe picked up the book on the nightstand and sat with Paige in her lap in the glider. Gliding back and forth she read the story of green eggs and ham. When she finished, Paige was fast asleep. Placing her in the bed she kissed her softly and went downstairs. The ringing phone startled her out of her happiness and her smile was quickly lost when she saw the look on Prue's face. "What?" she asked impatiently. "Shelly," Prue said sharply.
Phoebe looked stunned. "Shelly? Shelly, Shelly? As in..." Phoebe stopped talking when Prue started nodding. Piper came in wiping her hands on her jeans. "What's going on?" "Uh, bad news, let's go out here." Prue didn't want to wake Paige; she looked so peaceful. "Guess who just called?" Prue said with sarcasm. "Good old Shelly." "What?" Piper almost yelled. "Shelly called here? What the hell does she want?" Piper was pissed. Phoebe nodded "Yeah what did the bitch want" "She wants to see her baby, as she put it." "EWW" Piper gagged, “I am going to be sick.” "Yeah I want to be sick too," Prue agreed. "Well what did you tell her" Piper asked rubbing her stomach. "I didn't say anything Piper, she hung up before I got a chance to say anything, I would like to know how she got this number." "Do we have to let her see Paige" Phoebe asked looking like she was ready to cry. Wrapping her arms around her young sister she hugged her close. "No, no we do not!" Prue wasn't sure this was true but she didn’t like seeing Phoebe cry. "I do however think that Mr. Nick is about to get a visit he didn't bargain for.” Piper sighed "I read some where they can get one last visit in." "What?" Phoebe asked, very agitated. After her nap, Paige sat in Piper's lap and she drank from her sippey cup. "Paige baby, I need you to listen to me very carefully okay?" Prue said calmly. Even at three, Paige could tell that there was trouble brewing.
She began to squirm trying to get of Piper's lap. "Shhh," she soothed. "Remember how Sissy said she'd always protect you?" Paige nodded but the tears started to form. "We are going to have to go to the park tomorrow sweetie," Phoebe spit it out. Prue glared at her, but realized it needed to be said. "Dat's not bad," Paige reasoned. Piper sighed. "Sweetheart you have to see someone tomorrow you don't want to see." "You don' wan me?" Paige asked as the tears slid down her face. Prue sighed. She was breaking this little girls heart and Paige had had enough of that to last a lifetime. "Oh no Paige you are staying with us and we do want you" Piper said trying to fight her own tears. Paige was still confused. Taking a very deep breath. "Baby, Shelly wants to see you," Prue sighed as tears slid down her own face. Paige was not utterly lost. "Sissy no cwy!" she cried to her big sister. It was silent for a moment.
Prue picked up the little girl from Piper's lap and hugged her so tightly. "I love you so much baby, and nothing is going to change that okay?" Paige nodded. "I...I...w-w-wuv you...too. Don'...d-d-don' may-make, me s-s-see her." Paige stammered. "This is not fair" Piper almost shouted. "Sweetheart, its just one last time and then never ever again.
"Prue make it better you always make things better" Phoebe whimpered out. Phoebe hadn't said a word up until now, this was way too painful for her. Sitting in the chair next to Phoebe, she wrapped a free arm around her sister. "I will baby, I will," she said kissing Phoebe's forehead.
The afternoon and evening continued on horribly. There was no reasoning with Paige at all. She knew in her heart that finishing the day meant that she was one more step closer to having to see Shelly. Prue told Piper and Phoebe that they were not to punish her tonight, because nothing was her fault she was just trying to delay the inevitable and acting out was the only way she knew how. Piper agreed but Phoebe was having a little bit of a harder time dealing with it. Considering it was her night to put her to bed. When it got time for dinner, Piper even went so far as to make chicken nuggets so Paige could eat on her own. Paige refused to eat them though.
"I no wike these" she shouted at Piper when she set them in front of her. Prue took a deep breath. "Paige you have to eat dinner, you know that. I know you are not happy but you have to eat," Prue said. She leaned in to kiss her and to her surprise Paige let her.
Paige sighed "But I is not hungry, my tummy hurts me" Paige whimpered. Phoebe sighed and looked at Prue. "I know it sounds silly, but mine hurts too. Prue why do we..." she started. "Pheebs, don't. I can't explain it, but we just have to okay?" Prue leaned in and kissed Phoebe as well. Phoebe sighed "Well I know one thing I am not three and I don't have to eat. I am going up stairs to work on some advise" Phoebe said pushing back her plate of chicken nuggets.
"PHOEBE MARIE!" Prue shouted at her. Looking at Piper she sighed. "It's a good dinner Piper, really I swear." Piper nodded and looked at Paige. "I'll work on getting her to eat, go talk to Pheebs." Piper said sadly. Phoebe heard her sister shout after her but she didn't stop. It didn't seem fair to her. Prue could always make everything better but she wasn't even trying right now. She was agreeing to let Paige go see that awful person.
Knocking on the door, Prue walked in and pulled Phoebe into a hug. Fighting against the brief struggle she began rocking Phoebe back and forth. "Prue stop please" Phoebe said trying to push her sister away. But Prue was too strong for her. "Prue I am fine but I want to be left alone go take care of Paige she's your new baby" Phoebe said in a dry voice. "Phoebe stop it," Prue yelled at her. Keeping a tight hold on her she continued to rock back and forth. "Come on baby talk to me," Prue coaxed. "No Prue" Phoebe whined "I said I want to be left alone. What don't you understand about that!"
Meanwhile in the kitchen Piper wasn't having much luck either. "Paige please eat for me I even made a great dipping sauce for the nuggets" Paige shook her head "ME NO EAT" she yelled at her shoving her plate away so hard it nearly fell off the table.
Phoebe picked up a pillow and clobbered Prue with it. She was going to win this fight. "You do that one more time and I swear you'll get a spanking," Prue said annoyed. "YOU WOULDN'T," Phoebe shouted. "Push me and find out now get over here and sit down." Prue ordered her. "You are my baby sister, Piper is my baby sister, and Paige is my baby sister."
Paige started crying. There was guilt written all over her face. "NO, I sowwy! Don' GO!" she shouted and then she burst into tears. Piper picked her up and cuddled her closely. "We aren't leaving angel," Piper said softly. Paige sobbed "I eat for you I eat just you no go" Paige said sobbing and grabbing at her plate. She started to eat as fast as she could. Piper knew she was going to make herself sick. "Honey stop you are going to make yourself sick" Piper said pushing the plate away. She held her and rubbed her back. Hoping she would not choke.
Phoebe just glared at Prue "I know that we are all your little sister's your the oldest duh.. I just want to be left alone right now." Prue gripped her so tight that Phoebe swore she was going to crack a rib. "Prue GO AWAY!" she yelled. "Phoebe you're pushing it, now sit down and talk to me." Prue was determined to break the wall that Phoebe had built. She just had to get her to crack and judging from her reactions so far, she was really close. Rocking back and forth a few minutes longer, Phoebe finally broke and sobbed into Prue's shoulder. "It's not fair, you don't love me as much," she sobbed. "Of course I love you sweetheart!" Prue said gently. "I'm so dumb, I'm jealous of a 3 year old."
Piper continued to rub gently and Paige started gagging. "Okay okay, spit it out, it's okay." Spitting out what was in her mouth, Paige leaned into Piper and sobbed. As soon as Paige had calmed a little, Piper was able to feed her.
"Aww Phoebe it's ok to feel that way baby. You have always been my baby girl and I knew this was going to happen. I will always love you more then life it's self. I promise and once Paige gets used to this life style I will spend more one on one time with you."
When Paige was done eating she wanted Piper to hold her and rock. "We cudda" she asked her. "Alright my little one," Piper said gently. Carrying the little girl upstairs she sat in the glider and rocked back and forth.
Prue was rocking with Phoebe and cuddled her close. "Are you better now baby girl?" Prue asked cautiously. Phoebe nodded and wiped her remaining tears away. "Prue?" Phoebe said softly. "I want to go apologize to Paige." "Okay sweetie, but I don't think she knows why you're doing it." Phoebe nodded, "I know, but I still feel like I have to."
Phoebe stopped half way out the door. "And to Piper too" Prue nodded "Now there’s a good one to say sorry too. I think I heard them go to Paige's room why don't you go check" Prue sighed as she watched Phoebe leave. She looked around Phoebe's room and smiled. "Well I must have done something right with her hopefully I can do the same with Paige"
Stopping at the door to Paige's room she took a deep breath. She walked in and looked at Piper who had a very sleepy looking Paige on her lap. Kneeling in front of them she stroked Paige's hair and smiled at Piper. "I'm sorry about before," Phoebe said gently. "Thank you," Piper said softly. Paige just nodded and cuddled close to Piper. "I'm going to go eat the nuggets, I promise," she giggled. Piper just patted her cheek. "Thank you," Piper smiled. "Did you eat too baby?" Phoebe asked Paige. "Piper feeded me," she said softly. "Pheeeebe," she whined. "I don' wanna go, I don' wan you to leave me." Phoebe held her arms out and Paige flew into them. After cuddling with her for sometime Phoebe got an idea. "I think that you and I should have a bath and that Sissy and Piper should read us a story and we can all cuddle in my bed tonight okay?" "I think that is a wonderful idea," Prue said from the doorway.
Paige's eyes got really wide. "You mean it? Me and you baf togather ten storries" Paige asked happily. Phoebe nodded "Yeah I do come on. "I bet if you come down stairs with me while I eat a a few chicken nuggets Piper would run us a nice warm bubble bath" Paige looked at Piper. "You do" Paige asked. Piper giggled and nodded "Yes I will" Phoebe left the room with Paige on her hip.
Phoebe reheated her chicken nuggets and Paige ate some more with her. She only took little tiny bites, but Phoebe was just happy she was eating a little more. She didn't know how many nuggets she had had before. "Okay all done, let go get you that bubble bath," Phoebe smiled. "YAY!!!!" Paige yelled, jumping off her lap and running up the stairs. She passed Prue's bedroom and saw her sitting on the bed talking on the phone. "SISSY! BAF!" she yelled. "In a minute angel," Prue called out to her. "Nick, listen to me. You have no idea what this one little meeting did to that girl. I understand that legally she had her right, but I want a temporary restraining order on her, until the adoption date. If we have to keep doing these meetings, we will not get our little girl back. I don't want to argue, I just want it done alright?" Nick could sense the protective tone in her voice. "I will get right on it Prue," he told her kindly.
That night, nothing went well. Even though she had the protective embrace of all three sisters around her, she had too many bad dreams about life of the past and was up every few hours. Finally morning came and Piper fixed some oatmeal. Sprinkling it with brown sugar for flavor, she dished out four bowls and slowly fed Paige while Prue and Phoebe ate on their own. Paige ate very slowly. She was absolutely miserable and very silent. Prue took her upstairs to be dressed. "I no wanna do fis" She wailed as Prue snapped her overalls. Prue sighed "I know baby I know." Prue took pity on the little girl and pulled her into a tight hug. "One last time angel, this is it, then no more, I swear." Prue was biting back her own tears. "Listen, listen," Prue cooed moving to the glider. Sitting down she explained what was going to happen. "I promise you baby, one of your big sisters will be next to you the entire time." "You hold me?" "Yes angel, one of us will always hold you." Paige finally stopped crying. Prue had promised her she could bring Holly with her too and that helped ease some of her fears but that feeling didn't last that long.
Phoebe carried Paige the two blocks to the park. Paige's head rested on her shoulder the whole time. They approached the stone gates and glanced at one another before entering. Immediately, they saw Shelly sitting with the rude smirk on her face on a bench a little ways through the gates. Paige pressed herself into Phoebe the best she could. She did not want to see Shelly but she sort of understood that it had to be done. "Paige baby!" Shelly yelled when she saw her. Prue moved in front of her sisters. She was going to protect them no matter what. Shelly glared at Prue, slowing down a little and then making an abrupt turn toward Phoebe. She snatched Paige from Phoebe, causing Paige to protest with tears. "No!! I want Phoebe!" She yelled. "Paige baby, it's Mommy." Shelly tried to calm her although it had no positive effect. "Sissy!!! Piper!!! PUT ME DOWN!!!" She yelled. She started pounding her fists against the woman. The three sisters were trying to get to her all the while but Shelly was larger than them and they couldn't get to their baby sister. "SHELLY!!! LET HER GO NOW!!!!" Prue yelled. There was a tone in her voice that frightened Shelly and instantly set Paige on the floor. She ran to Piper, who was closest, as fast as her small legs would carry her. Holding her tight, Piper checked her over for any bruises and Prue dealt with Shelly. "You try that again, and I'm calling the police," Prue growled. "Are you threatening me?" Shelly accused. "Try it again and find out," Prue glared at her. "Prue," Piper called over to her, "I think it's time we go home," she stated quickly. Prue walked over and took Paige. She was shaking uncontrollably and trying very hard to breathe correctly, but it wasn't working. "No, I still have 45 minutes with her, and if you don't let me have that, I'll call the police," Shelly responded. "You touch her, you die." Prue warned. They sat down, not wanting to be dragged into an unneeded court battle. Paige sat on Prue's lap shaking and crying. Shelly kept talking to her and telling her how much she missed her baby. "Mommy misses you so much darling, it's so quiet in the house and we wish you would come back and live with us," "I no wanna." Paige told her. "Now you be nice,” Shelly demanded. “She’s fine,” Prue glared at the woman. They talked for a while longer before the hour was almost up. Paige let Shelly push her on the swing. She hung onto the chains for dear life. Her three sisters were all close to her but she was not in their warm hold and she felt vulnerable. Shelly's rude face suddenly returned as she started to push Paige harder. Paige asked her repeatedly to stop and slow down but she wouldn't. Finally, Prue heard the small child's whispers for help and moved to stop the bitch but before she could Shelly shoved her off the swing and into the wood chip box.
Paige was bawling. She could do that now with her sisters. Phoebe and Piper were on her like a shot and Prue nearly attacked Shelly. "I told you once bitch! Your time is up, GET OUT!" "Fine, she's your little witch now, maybe someone should have done to you, what we did to her! That little rat is nothing but trouble. You mark my words, you'll be begging me to take her back," Shelly spat. "Leave, NOW!" Prue said evenly. She was seething with rage. Piper and Phoebe were looking at the split lip, the wood chips buried in her skin and the huge black and blue forming on her cheek. Prue moved in and picked up the tiny girl. “I gotcha baby, it’s okay now. Sissy’s here, shhh,” Prue soothed the tiny girl. Looking around she saw Shelly in her van. “Piper you brought your purse right?” Piper nodded and raised an eyebrow at Prue. “Good because she’s still in her van and I DON’T want her following us home.” “Where are we going?” Phoebe asked confused. “Home, in a round about sort of way,” Prue responded. She was pretty sure that Paige was incoherent at the time but she didn’t want to scare her any further. Piper went in and called for a cab. The girls took a tour of the city so they could loose Shelly. When Prue noticed that Shelly was still following them, she told the cab driver to go to the police station. “Wait here I’ll be right back,” Prue said stepping out of the cab. “Yeah yeah lady, but the meters running,” he stated quickly. Moving Paige to Phoebe’s lap she got out of the cab and went into the station. She came back a few minutes later and they all went home. As soon as the cab pulled into the lot, Shelly left. Prue got back in the cab and looked on at her baby sister. Paige had wounds that needed tending and much needed cuddle time with a nap.
Arriving at the manor, Piper paid the cab driver, and Phoebe took her upstairs for a bath. Speaking gently the whole time, she cleaned up her wounds, put some aloe vera on her cheek where her bruise was. She needed to take a pair of tweezers to certain parts of Paige's skin. Shelly had pushed her so hard that some of the chips landed in her skin or she had splinters of the chips. Cleaning her up, she carried her to her room and rocked her to sleep. Placing her gently in bed, she kissed her softly and went downstairs. "Well?" Prue said looking at Phoebe. "I'm worried Prue, she didn't say one word. There were some deep splinters in her that I was ready to cry about. Not a word Prue, not one!" Phoebe said quickly and the tears formed in her eyes. Prue quickly took Phoebe in her arms and started rubbing her back. "Shhh baby I gotcha you and Paige will be fine. Piper go sit in Paige's room so there is someone there when she wakes up. I am going to stay down here and cuddle with Phoebe" Piper nodded and left the room. Cuddling on the couch Prue held Phoebe tight. Playing with her hair Phoebe soon took a nap that she needed. Prue resituated her. Stretching out on the couch, she pulled Phoebe down to her chest and had Phoebe's head on her chest. Prue then took a nap she needed of her own.
Piper was sitting in Paige's room watching her sleep. She looked so tiny and vulnerable. How could anyone treat her badly. How could anyone torture a child so innocent and tiny. Paige began tossing and turning in her sleep till she sat up straight and looked around quickly. "You're alright love, you're in your room, at home, with Sissy, and Me and Phoebe okay?" Paige nodded and slowly crawled onto her lap. Sticking her thumb in her mouth she leaned against Piper and seemed to be content to sit there. Piper rocked her for about twenty minutes ago "I think we should go get something to drink what do you think?" Paige nodded. "Piper what's soda pop" Piper smiled "You've never had any? Well I believe Prue has some orange flavored kind in the fridge do you want to try it?" Paige nodded. Piper smiled. "Ok but I am warning you now it's just a treat you can't have it all the time" Paige nodded again. She was starting to feel more at home. Going down stairs, Paige found Prue and Phoebe sleeping. Moving her finger to Piper's lips she looked seriously at her. "Shhh, Sissy and Phoebe is sleeping," she said quietly. Piper nodded and carried her to the kitchen. "Okay, you sit here and I'll get you some soda pop," Piper bargained. "NO! NO DOWN!" Paige cried. “Oh Paige,” Piper sighed. Hugging her close and rubbing her back, she cooed at her softly. “I just have to get your drink baby, that’s all.” Trying to place her down again,