DISCLAIMER: None of the characters that appear on the Charmed series belong to me. The content of this story is meant purely for pleasure. I welcome any feedback. Please do not reproduce this without telling me.
NOTE: This comes several months after my other fan fiction, A Time and Place for Everything. Piper has now opened P3. Andy has been killed. Phoebe is still seeing Jamie and things are pretty hot between them. Leo has not visited them since the time he announced that he'd been reassigned. Dan has just moved in next door and showed interest in Piper.

Phoebe sat bolt upright in bed and clamped a hand over her mouth to stifle a scream. Her nightshirt was drenched with sweat and her heart was hammering in her chest. She had just had a terrible nightmare. She had witnessed her own death at the hands of a warlock. Phoebe felt like she had just been punched in the stomach when a terrifying realization occurred to her. That was no nightmare. It was a premonition! Phoebe gasped and lay down again. 'I'm being paranoid,' she told herself, wishing she could forget the images. It wasn't helping. She was totally freaked out. She glanced at the clock on her bedside table. It said 7:15. Phoebe sighed and climbed out of bed. 'Maybe a shower will help,' she thought. She was pretty shaken up.
Phoebe entered the kitchen, her mind still on her nightmare. She was still not sure if it was a nightmare or a premonition. Piper looked at her with slight concern. "Everything all right, Pheebs?" she asked, breaking into Phoebe's thoughts. Phoebe jumped. She wanted to tell her sisters what she had seen, but a voice inside her told her not to. "Huh? Yeah! Sure," she said forcing a smile. Prue looked up from the paper. "Are you sure? You look a little pale," she asked with concern. "Maybe I'm coming down with something," Phoebe said quickly. "How did things go at P3 last night?" she asked, changing the subject in an attempt to get attention off her. Piper smiled. "Okay. It was packed full. How was your night?" she asked, giving Prue a crooked smile. A playful smile played about Phoebe's lips. "Hmmm," she said, thinking about Jamie. "Is that all? Do tell all," Prue said. "We're going out again tonight. That's all you two nosy parks need to know," Phoebe scolded jokingly. "Fine," stated Piper with a mock pout. "It's been two months now. When are you going to tell him the family secret?" Prue asked gently. Phoebe frowned. "I don't know. Things are going great right now and I don't want it to end." She sipped her coffee and sat down. She glanced at her watch and stood up. "I better get a move on or I'll be late for class," she announced, going into the hall. A minute later, Prue and Piper heard the front door close.
* * *
Phoebe admired herself in the full-length mirror in her room. She was wearing a gorgeous purple strapless. It fit perfectly over her almost perfect body. "Wow!" exclaimed Piper. Phoebe turned to see her sisters at the door to her room. She couldn't help but smile. "Thanks." "Where are you going?" Prue asked, smiling with admiration. Phoebe shrugged. "Jamie said it was a surprise." Phoebe opened a drawer and pulled out a crystal tear drop pendant on a silver chain. She put it on. The phone rang and Piper and Prue left the room to answer it. Phoebe continued to apply her make up. She thought back to her nightmare and shuddered. She hadn't told Prue and Piper about it yet. Phoebe fingered her chain. It was a present from Jamie and she loved it. Apart from that, she hadn't told her sisters that her and Jamie's casual relationship was becoming a lot more serious. She knew that she was falling in love with him. It also meant that she would have to tell him the truth. "Hey sis, penny for your thoughts," a voice from the doorway interrupted Phoebe's train of thought. It was Piper. Phoebe let out a sigh and shook her head as she sat on the edge of her bed. Piper came over and sat down beside her. "Pheebs don't get me wrong," Piper began hesitantly, "but don't you think that you and Jamie are past the 'getting to know you' stage?" Phoebe looked at her sister and smiled wryly. "I should have known that I couldn't fool you," she admitted. Lowering her voice, she continued, "I am beginning to have more than just an interest in him. I…think that he feels the same way." "I'm happy for you Pheebs." Just then, they heard the doorbell ring. Phoebe stood up to go downstairs. Piper followed.
"Hi gorgeous," a charming male voice said as Phoebe came down the stairs. Phoebe walked up to him and tilted her head upward to meet his soft tender kiss. Phoebe stepped back and Jamie handed her a bouquet of red roses. "Thanks. They're beautiful," she told him. "Not half as beautiful as you," he responded. Phoebe headed into the kitchen to find a vase. Prue and Piper exchanged smiling glances. Prue mockingly cleared her throat. "Hi Jamie. In case you didn't realize, me and Piper are here too." Jamie grinned at them. "Sorry Prue, Piper. Next time I'll bring more flowers," he told them. "So, where are you going?" Piper asked as Phoebe came back. Jamie wrapped an arm around Phoebe's waist. "It's a surprise," he said with a mysterious glint in his coffee-colored eyes. They started for the front door. "Think you can remember and stop by at P3 later," Piper called after them. Phoebe stopped and looked up at Jamie. His eyes twinkled. "Why not? A great excuse to hang around two beautiful women and the most beautiful woman in the world." Phoebe blushed with pleasure as they went out the front door.
* * *
P3 was abuzz. Piper was running around trying to get all the orders. Prue was manning the bar. "Prue, could you hurry up," Piper told her sister. "Piper, I'm working as fast as I can. You know that I've only got two hands," Prue responded slightly annoyed. "What a great day for my two best bartenders to come down with a flu," Piper grumbled. "Can we get some service, please?" a familiar voice teased. It was Phoebe. Piper gave her sister a dirty look. "Hey, nobody gives my lady dirty looks," Jamie said, interjecting, "If you want help, just ask. That is if it's okay with you," he added looking at Phoebe. Phoebe smiled and Jamie walked round the counter and began pouring out the drinks. Twenty minutes later, all the customers had been served. Piper looked at Jamie gratefully. "If you ever need some extra money." "Thanks, but right now your sister is all I need. Now, if you'll excuse me," he said, picking up two glasses and going round the counter to Phoebe. He handed her a drink. They drank in silence for a while. "Wanna dance?" Jamie asked over the blaring music. Phoebe nodded and took his hand as they made their way onto the dance floor.
Prue and Piper sat behind the bar, chatting casually and serving the occasional customer wanting a refill. "Phoebe and Jamie seem to be in perfect tune," Prue commented. Piper nodded. "It's great to see her happy. I wasn't too sure after our run in with Zac." "I don't think she even remembers him," Prue said, nodding toward the dance floor. Piper turned to see what Prue was indicating. Phoebe had her arms around Jamie's neck, he had his arms around her waist and their lips were locked together in a deep, long passionate kiss.
"Let's sit this one out," Phoebe said, slightly out of breath. They made their way to the bar where Prue and Piper were and sat down. Jamie glanced at his watch. "Oh my gosh! It's past one!" he exclaimed. He turned to Phoebe with an apologetic look. "Sorry angel, but I gotta go. Want me to take you home?" he asked. Phoebe shook her head. "I'll go with my sisters. You go on ahead. I don't have to be at the hospital at 7 in the morning." Jamie smiled and leaned over. He lifted Phoebe's chin and pulled her into a passionate kiss. She returned it with the same vigor. When they broke apart, Jamie stood up to go. "See ya, angel," he told Phoebe. Turning to her sisters, " 'Night, Prue Piper." He turned towards the exit and left. Phoebe stared after him until Prue interrupted. "Hello, Phoebe. We're here too." Phoebe grinned at her sisters. "Sorry guys, but you're not as attractive or interesting as Jamie." "I have a feeling that Jamie thinks of you the same way," Piper says smiling. Phoebe's smile faded slightly. "Even when he finds out I'm a witch?"
* * *
Phoebe closed the door and turned on her bedroom light. It was 2 in the morning and she and her sisters had just got home from the club. She was tired out, yet she was afraid of falling asleep and having the same nightmare again. Phoebe sighed. She had managed to put it out of her mind the whole evening, but now it was impossible not to think about it. Phoebe undressed and changed into her nightclothes and then lay down on her bed. 'It's a good thing I don't have any morning classes tomorrow,' she thought. Despite her fears, Phoebe began to doze off. She had barely fallen asleep when she felt someone gently shake her. She turned over and muttered a 'go away'. The shaking didn't stop. Then she heard a familiar voice call her name. "Grams?" she asked in confusion. Phoebe sat up and rubbed her eyes. Her eyes nearly popped out of her head when she saw Grams standing in front of her bed. She sat there gaping. "Grams? How? Why?" Phoebe asked. Grams held up a hand. "Phoebe darling, listen. I don't have much time." Phoebe just stared. Grams continued. "Your nightmare. It was a...a...premonition." "You mean I am going to die?" Phoebe asked. Grams nodded, wishing she were anywhere else at that moment. Phoebe's face turned pale. "Why?" "It is destiny. You must. I am here only to tell you." "But...but the Power of Three?" "My darling, I know this is hard to accept. But you must find a way to preserve it and keep it alive even if you are not," Grams told her granddaughter as gently as she could. Phoebe took a deep breath to compose herself. "If this is how things are meant to be, so be it." Grams is surprised to see how calm Phoebe is. "How long have I got?" Phoebe asked without a hint of emotion in her voice. "Till tomorrow evening." "Can I tell Piper and Prue?" Grams sighed. This was one of the hardest errands she had run. "You may, but if you do it might change destiny." Phoebe realized the hidden meaning behind Grams' words. If she told her sisters, they wouldn't let her get hurt, and might end up jeopardizing their own lives. Grams' spirit began to glow brightly. She blew her a kiss as she disappeared and Phoebe was left alone with this revelation. Phoebe collapsed onto her bed in stunned silence. When everything sunk in, Phoebe succumbed to tears and began crying, crying for herself. Phoebe gave way to her feelings only for a short while. Then she abruptly wiped at her tears. "I don't have time to feel sorry for myself. I have a job to do," she told herself sternly. Phoebe fetched a pen and went up to the attic. She took the Book in her arms and sat down on the armchair in the attic. She fingered the triquetra on the cover for a moment. Phoebe then opened the Book to a blank page. She took a deep breath and began to write.
* * *
Phoebe opened her eyes slowly. She looked around and sat up suddenly when she realized where she was. 'Oh, gosh. I fell asleep in the attic.' She looked down at her arms and saw that she was still holding the Book. As the events of the past night came back to her, she was compelled to break down again, but she stopped herself. Phoebe stood up and replaced the Book on its stand and turned to go downstairs. Phoebe showered and made her way to the kitchen for breakfast. Prue and Piper were already there. She was about to ask them why they weren't at work when she realized that it was Saturday. Prue would go in later than usual and Piper would be home. "Morning," she greeted them as lightly as she thought possible. "Sleep well?" Piper asked. "I think better than that. Especially if Jamie was a part of her dreams," Prue teased. Phoebe forced a smile and struggled to calm herself. Things were hard enough as it was; she didn't need her sisters to make them any worse. Phoebe sat down and ate her breakfast, only for the sake of eating. 'Who's going to have an appetite when they know that they've got one day of their life left?' she thought. "I think I'll get going. Maybe I can finish up and come home early for a change," Prue said, standing up and getting ready to leave. Phoebe and Piper finished breakfast in silence, Phoebe still thinking about the previous night. She washed her plate and then went up to her room. There were still so many things on her mind - she had so much to say and so much to do, she didn't know where to start.
'I won't die until later, so I guess my psychology homework deserves some attention' she thought. Phoebe gave a soft laugh. She could hardly believe how calm and in control she was. She took out her books and sat down at her desk and began to complete her assignments. She worked steadily for over an hour until she heard a soft knock at her door. "Pheebs, you gotta minute?" Piper asked, opening the door. Phoebe looked up and smiled. "Sure. Why not?" Piper came in and sat down on Phoebe's bed. Phoebe saw the wave of sadness and pain that washed over her sister's face. For moment, Phoebe felt anger rising inside her. She wanted to yell at her sister to get out, but she stopped herself. 'They don't know' she reminded herself. Phoebe stood up and walked over and sat down on the edge of her bed. "What's wrong?" Phoebe knew that whatever Piper wanted to say was not easy, otherwise she would have picked a time when all three of them were together. Piper sighed and drew in a long breath. Ever since she could remember, Phoebe had always been more approachable and understanding than Prue could ever be. Piper had always been able to tell Phoebe how she felt about anything, and Phoebe could always tell when something bothered her. Phoebe had always known how to respond towards her sisters at anytime. The only time Phoebe had made a mistake was with Roger. Piper couldn't even begin to guess; neither did she want to ask what happened. Phoebe had put whatever happened behind her and now, she and Prue were beginning to work things out. Piper wasn't sure that she wanted to ask Phoebe about Leo. Normally, she would feel comfortable talking with Phoebe. But with Leo it was different. Though it was Piper and Leo who had the chemistry between them, Phoebe and Leo were very close friends and Piper knew that Leo probably told Phoebe everything. Including how he felt about their relationship. This was why she had to talk with Phoebe. She knew Leo better than Piper herself.
Piper snapped out of her thoughts to see Phoebe gazing at her expectantly. Piper took another deep breath. "Do you think Leo would mind if I started seeing Dan?" she asked in a rush. Phoebe looked at her evenly. "Piper, sweetie, you know I can't answer that." "I know. But you were pretty close. You know everything about him. He probably tells you everything." Phoebe softened a bit. "Piper, we were friends, but it was your relationship. It had nothing to do with me. Whatever Leo told me was because he wanted someone to talk with and work things out, not because I wanted to know." Phoebe smiled, before continuing. "I know how much he loves you. And I know how you feel about him. No matter what, honey, you and Leo can't be together. It's not fair, I know. But Leo wants you to be happy. If being with Dan makes you happy, that's what Leo wants. That's what I want, too," Phoebe told her sister gently. Piper nodded and stood up to leave. Phoebe caught her arm. "Are you okay?" she asked, concern flooding her voice. Piper nodded, but her eyes didn't meet her younger sister's. Phoebe came over and slipped an arm around Piper's waist. Piper looked up, tears filling her eyes. She turned and hugged Phoebe tightly. "I just wish I could just change everything. Talk to him instead of yelling at him. I wish I could get another chance to work things out. Oh god, Phoebe it hurts so much," she whispered into her sister's ear, her voice cracking with emotion. Phoebe could only hug her sister in response. 'I promise that you'll get another chance to talk to him before I die,' she vowed silently. Piper broke down into soft sobs on Phoebe's shoulder. Phoebe kissed her head and stroked her hair, thinking that this was probably the last time she would ever do this. Phoebe couldn't stop a few of her own tears from springing to her eyes. She knew that she couldn't break down. It took all her strength and courage to suppress them, but she succeeded in forcing back her tears.
Finally, Piper pulled away and wiped at her tears. "Thanks," she said gratefully. Phoebe smiled. Piper opened the door and left the room. Phoebe sighed and sank back onto her bed. She glanced at the clock and gulped hard. She had less than 8 hours to live. 'This is like waiting for your execution,' she muttered. Suddenly she remembered that there was something she needed to do. She stood up and checked her homework. It was all done. Phoebe took a deep breath and cleared her table. She picked up a pen and a fresh sheet of paper. She sat down and began to compose a letter.
* * *
Phoebe closed the front door. She looked up at the clock in the hall. It was 6:30pm. 'Not much longer,' she thought. She heard her sisters in the kitchen. Phoebe started for the stairs, deciding that she needed some time to collect her wits. She went into her room and closed the door. She set her books down and flopped down on her bed. She remembered her silent promise to Piper and sat up. She closed her eyes and concentrated. She had never tried to reach Leo; it was always him who got in touch with her. "Leo, please. If you can hear me. Leo," she called out telepathically. Miraculously, Leo appeared in front of her. "It worked. Did you hear me?" she asked. "I heard. The only reason I came is to warn you about a warlock." "I thought you weren't allowed to have any contact with us." "They didn't think you'd trust anyone else. His name is Caucus. He can shoot energy bolts. He is very powerful and has killed many good witches before. He has a way of playing on your weaknesses." Phoebe hesitated before asking. "Do you know about me...my death?" Leo nodded apologetically. "I'm sorry, Phoebe." Phoebe nodded. "I better go," Leo said abruptly. "No, wait! Don't you want to see Piper?" Phoebe asked. Leo looked down. "I don't think she wants to see me. She hates me," he said. "Leo, she doesn't hate you. Not being able to speak to you is killing her inside. She was just too hurt and angry back then. Leo, she's had time to get herself together. Please. Only for a minute. At least tell her that it's okay for her to see someone else if it can't be you. She deserves that much," Phoebe begged. "Think of it as a dying woman's last wish," she added dryly. Leo shrugged hesitantly. "Okay, if you say so." "Thanks. You don't know how much this means to me," Phoebe told him gratefully. Seeing that he was still reluctant, Phoebe took his hand and led him downstairs to the kitchen. Prue and Piper were busy preparing dinner. "Piper, there's someone here to see you," Phoebe said. Piper and Prue turned to face her. Piper stared at Leo with a loss of words. Without a word, she walked up to him and hugged him tightly, never wanting to let go. Phoebe stepped back and exchanged smiles with Prue. "You'll never know how much I've wanted to hold you like this," he whispered hoarsely. "Oh Leo, I'm so sorry I yelled at you?quot; Piper began, but Leo stopped her. "No. Don't be. You had every right to feel the way you did." They held each other silently, Piper sobbing into his chest. When they finally pulled apart, Leo turned to Phoebe gratefully with tears in his eyes. "Thank you so much for making this possible. I don't know how to thank you." "Seeing you two together is thanks enough," Phoebe responded, smiling. Piper looked at Phoebe through her tears and smiled. "I hate to interrupt this moment, but we have to kick Caucus's demon butt," Phoebe said. Prue and Piper turn to Leo. Leo looks at Phoebe. "I'll get the Book while you fill them in," she tells him, before gong to the attic.
"Okay, here it is," Phoebe says as she comes to a page. "Caucus, a powerful shape shifting demon with a variety of powers, especially the energy bolts. Only the Power of Three can defeat him. Plays with your weaknesses. Nothing about getting rid of him." "Do you think you can create a spell, Pheebs?" Prue asks. Phoebe nods. "I think so, but it'll take some time." Piper hands her a pen and a pad. They all sit and wait for Phoebe to come up with the magic words. Phoebe is uncomfortable. "Uh, guys, would you mind if I go and do this on my own. I can't work under pressure." Prue and Piper nod. Leo knows that there is more to Phoebe's discomfort and he gives her a sympathetic look. Phoebe stands up with the Book and goes up to the attic. "I can't put my finger on it, but I'll bet anything that something's troubling her," Piper says furrowing her brow thoughtfully. 'If you only knew,' Leo muttered under his breath.
Phoebe sat down on the armchair in the attic and sighed. 'So this is it. My time has come.' She forced herself to think clearly and began to write a spell.
* * *
An hour and a half later, Phoebe has come up with a spell and the sisters and Leo (who decided to stick around) have finished dinner. Phoebe was becoming more and more edgy. Piper and Prue had tried to calm her down at first, but now they were getting annoyed. Only Leo understood why Phoebe felt that way. Phoebe paced restlessly back and forth in the living room. "Pheebs, will you calm down!" Piper said, exasperated. Phoebe was having more and more trouble keeping to herself. "Easy for you to say?quot; she began, but was interrupted by black smoke wafting into the room. Prue and Piper jumped to their feet. The smoke formed itself into a black, hideous creature with horns. "So these are the almighty Charmed Ones," he sneered, as he unleashed an energy bolt across the room at Phoebe. Phoebe instinctively tried to dodge, but to no avail. Prue and Piper didn't even have a chance to react as they watched Phoebe get thrown backwards. Despite her fate, Phoebe clung to the doorframe with all her might refusing to succumb to the force of the bolt. Phoebe cried out in pain as it burned through her body. Piper threw up her hands and froze the room. Phoebe leaned heavily against the doorframe, gasping as her sisters and Leo rushed to her side. "Phoebe!" "The spell, hurry!" Phoebe ordered weakly. The sisters joined hands and began to recite, Phoebe gritting her teeth to bear the pain.
"The evil that was called upon
We wish you to be gone
Be no more
Power of Three
We summon Thee
Heed thy call"
As Caucus disappeared, Phoebe collapsed forwards. Leo caught her and gently eased her onto the floor. Prue grasped her wrist and felt for a pulse. Nothing. "Leo," she pleaded tearfully. Leo put his hand on Phoebe's chest and willed his power to work. He tried as hard as he could, but it refused to work. Sadness washed over him. Fighting back tears, he looked at Piper and Prue. "My powers won't work unless they're meant to. I am sorry." Prue gasped. "You mean, she's supposed to…to die?" she asked. Leo turned away, unable to stop his own tears from flowing. "No!" Piper cried, sobbing uncontrollably, "Not Phoebe!" Leo walked up to them and wrapped his arms around Piper and Prue as they all cried for Phoebe.
* * *
"We are gathered here today, to?quot; the priest read out his sermon. The four people sitting in the front row barely heard his words. Each was thinking about their own experiences with Phoebe.
Jamie sat stiffly recalling how, after the plane crash that killed his family, Phoebe had brought to him both the love and happiness. She had put meaning back into his life, given him reason to fulfill his dreams. She had given him the joy of life. He couldn't even think about what he'd have done to his life, if Phoebe hadn't come by. Without her, he felt empty, the same emptiness that he had felt when he lost his family. He buried his face in his hands and cried quietly.
Leo sat silently, hugging Piper. In the year that he had known Phoebe, she had taught him things; things he hadn't known in all his years, both as a whitelighter and a human. From Phoebe, he had learnt, that understanding how others felt was the key to understanding oneself. Phoebe had proved this when she left for New York. Though they weren't witches then, he had been watching them. He remembered how, she had accepted what Prue had to say and left without raising her voice against her older sister, despite how hurt she had been. Phoebe was the one who helped him and Piper to reconcile. She had reasoned with him to be honest, reasoned with her sister to try and accept. She had stuck by as both a sister and a friend, no matter how much it crushed her. He knew that without her, both he and Piper would not be on speaking terms right now. This was what he admired most about Phoebe. Underneath her free - spirited attitude, she was the kindest, most understanding and caring person he had ever known. Looking around at the other people seated behind, he saw that Phoebe had touched the hearts of many.
Prue and Piper stared silently at Phoebe's coffin. As they thought back to the events of the past, especially those of the past year and a half, tears they thought they never had overwhelmed them.
Prue sobbed quietly. She and Phoebe had always had their differences, while growing up and even now. But since they became witches, they had been forced to put their differences aside. Slowly, they had begun to work things out. Phoebe had begun to take her life seriously and Prue had tried harder to understand her youngest sister.
Piper sobbed into Leo's chest. She was probably the hardest hit. Even as kids, it was Piper, to whom Phoebe talked to; it was to Phoebe who Piper confided her deepest feelings. From the beginning, she and Phoebe had been close. Their bond had grown stronger when they became witches, and even more over the past couple of months with everything about Leo, if Phoebe hadn't been there Piper didn't know what she would have done. Phoebe had helped her to come to terms with her feelings. She had provided a ready shoulder to cry on, and helped Piper heal. Prue was loving and caring, but she was judgmental and over - bearing. Phoebe on the other hand was more understanding and easy to talk to. No matter how hard she tried, Piper had never been able to hide anything from Phoebe. Phoebe could always see right through her and know when Piper was upset. She always knew what to say and when to say it.
After the sermon, people began filing out after offering their condolences to Piper and Prue. A lot of the faces the sisters had never even seen, but from the look on their tear-stained faces, it was obvious that they had known Phoebe well, or rather Phoebe had known them well.
* * *
It was a sad and tired Piper and Prue that came home that day with an equally forlorn Leo. Suddenly Leo looked up. He sighed and turned to Prue and Piper. "I have to go." He kissed Piper and gave her a hug. "Thanks for being here," she whispered. "I wouldn't have had it any other way." With that, Leo orbed out, and for the first time in a week, Prue and Piper felt Phoebe's absence reverberate from the house. They exchanged glances before heading up the stairs to their younger sister's bedroom. Piper opened the door and stopped, almost expecting Phoebe to be inside. She gazed at the now empty room and studied the decorations. They were so colourful, so vibrant and full of life, and yet, they weren't as lively as they had been before. Prue and Piper went over to Phoebe's desk. Her study books were there where Phoebe had dumped them. Prue opened the top drawer and pulled out a brown envelope addressed to them. Prue and Piper sat down on Phoebe's bed. Prue opened the envelope and pulled out the letter. She held it out in front of her so that both of them could read it.
Dear Piper and Prue,
If you are reading this, it means that my premonition came true. It was no dream.
Two days before it happened, I realized what it meant to be alive. The past two days seem like a horrible blur. I now know how it feels to be sentenced to death. Waiting for the execution, not knowing when and how is worse. But keeping it from you, was by far the worst and most difficult thing I've ever had to do.
A lot of the things in this letter, I've been wanting to tell you, but I never knew how, and even now I don't think I do, but I don't have a choice either.
Prue, I know we put this behind us but I think you should know what really happened between me and Roger. It was he, who came here after Grams' funeral, stone drunk and demanded to see you. I told him you weren't here because you guys had gone to your apartment to pack up. He came onto me and I threatened to call the police if he didn't get out. He left, but not without swearing to get even with me. He said that no woman who crossed paths with him ever got away with it. I guess you can figure what happened next. I never told you before because I knew what it was doing to you inside, and that telling you would only make you hurt more. Even if I did, I doubt that you'd have even listened to me at the time. Prue, Piper, I know that rushing to NY seemed like running away from responsibility, but it wasn't. If I had stayed, we'd all have resented it. Me and Prue at each other's throats and Piper stuck in the middle. That wasn't fair to either of you.
Piper, I am really sorry that I never told you the truth about Leo earlier. It could have stopped you from getting hurt. I hope that by the time you are reading this later, I managed to get you and him a chance to talk things over. You won't believe how sandwiched I felt, between a sister and a very close friend to whom I owe my life, or rather owed my life. Whatever. I was never good when it came to tenses. Just remember what I told you this morning. He loves you a lot, enough to let go if it comes to that. Give Leo my regards, or maybe I can do it myself.
Remember what Grams always told us. Destiny always gets its own way. If this was meant to happen, There was nothing we could have done about it. I know what you're thinking, that the Power of Three is gone without me. No. When I realized what was going to happen, I wrote a spell, one that would allow you to take my powers, so preserving the Power of Three. As long as one of us is alive, the Power of Three will remain.
PLEASE don't mourn me forever. Don't dwell on this forever. Get on with your lives. Just because my life is over, doesn't mean yours is. Seeing the two of you happy, makes me happy. Literature was never my subject, but a wise man once said 'We live forever in the hearts of those we leave behind.' I'll always be around. Maybe I can take over for Grams, flipping the pages of the Book. Remember that we represent the greatest force of good there is. Nothing can separate us. Not even death. No matter where or how far apart we may be, we will always be connected.
Tell Jamie I love him and that I'm sorry I broke my promise to him.
This is not good-bye. It never will be.
I love you both very much. I always have and I always will.
Yours
Forever and Always
PHOEBE.
Prue drops the letter as she and Piper crumble into each other's arms, unable to hold themselves together. They are both mentally and physically down. As they cry softly, a bright light materializes in front of them. They pull apart abruptly and stand up as Phoebe appears. Prue and Piper stare in shock, and then Prue finally reaches out, expecting her hand to go through Phoebe. Instead, Phoebe grabs her sister's hand and squeezes it. "You're?quot; Prue says, stunned. "Solid," Phoebe suggests, unable to hide a smile. "How?" Piper asks. "Caucus has a large number of victims. This is their way of saying thank you for vanquishing him. I get to see you guys again." "Not for very long, right?" Piper's face falls. Phoebe shakes her head sadly. "You knew this was going to happen, didn't you? You could have told us," Prue asks accusingly, suddenly very angry. Phoebe knows where her sister's anger is coming from. "Prue, if I'd told you, you'd try to prevent it and when you failed, blame yourself. Or worse, you would have changed things and maybe got yourself killed. I wasn't going to let that happen. This is destiny. You can't change it, no matter how hard you try, no matter how much it hurts. I learnt that the hard way with Roger," Phoebe tells her sisters, tears springing to her eyes. "But how do you know that it's destiny?" Piper protested. "I just do. Don't ask me how or why? Everything happens for a reason. We don't have to know what that is." Prue and Piper grab Phoebe in a hug, never wanting to let go. Finally, Phoebe kisses both her sisters before pulling away. She steps back and disappears in a bright light. Prue and Piper still feel sad about the loss of their sister, but now that they got a chance to say their farewells they felt better.
Prue and Piper head up to the attic, Piper still holding Phoebe's letter. As they enter, the Book flips open and turns to a page. Prue and Piper exchange knowing glances. Phoebe had already resumed her duties as the guru of the Book. They look at the Preservation spell written in Phoebe's handwriting. "You say it, Prue," Piper says. Prue looks at her and shakes her head. "Phoebe was our sister. We should both have one of her powers. That's what she'd want." Prue and Piper say the incantation together. When they finish, they look at each other. "I don't feel different," Prue says slowly. "Phoebe's powers weren't active unless they were needed, so we can't test them," Piper says.
* * *
Phoebe gazes down sadly at her sisters. Though she had put on strong looks for them, she was really torn apart. In a way, she was happy to meet and spend time with the mother she never knew and Grams. But at the same time, she wished she could stay with her sisters. Phoebe feels someone touch her shoulder and she turns around. It was her Mom and Grams. "I'm very proud of you Phoebe. You were so brave and strong through it all," says Grams. Phoebe forces a smile, but her mother and grandmother can see that she isn't happy. Patty puts an arm around her youngest daughter. "It will take time, but you will heal. So will they." Phoebe nods. Just then, a messenger comes up to them. "The Elders want to see you right away." Phoebe looks at her mother who leads the way. They come to the gate of a beautiful garden. They enter and walk along the path to the large white building in the center. As they approach, the door opens and two more messengers beckon them inside. Phoebe stands in front of some men and women all dressed in white. The man at the head speaks first. "The spell you wrote that allowed the remaining Charmed ones to preserve the Power of Three did not work." Patty and Penny exchanges glances and then glare at Phoebe furiously. "You have shamed us, Phoebe. You did not create that spell whole-heartedly. A spell works only when its creator truly wants it to?quot; Grams tells her angrily. Tears are filling in Phoebe's eyes. "Mom, Grams…I created that spell wishing it to work with all my heart." At this moment, a lady Elder interrupts. "You have misunderstood. The Power of Three cannot be transferred with a mere set of words. It can only be passed down the generations. The spell you wrote will give your sisters your powers not your share of the Power of Three. That is, and always will be in you." The Elder pauses, letting everything sink in. Even Mom and Grams are staring wide-eyed. Another Elder continues, "Your death wasn't meant to be. It was a test to see how dedicated you were to your duty. And I must proudly say that you passed with flying colors." "You mean, I can go back?" Phoebe asks hopefully. The Elders smile. "Yes. Even as we speak your sisters are in need of help. Go to them. For your sacrifice, you have been granted a new power. The power of teleportation. Only you, your sisters, Leo and those up here will remember the past few days.
* * *
Prue and Piper enter the abandoned building cautiously. Suddenly a bright light blinds them. When their vision clears they see a dark shadow in front of them. The evil form begins to laugh loudly. His voice echoes throughout the building and the sisters shudder. "Only the Power of Three can affect me and it is no more!" he shouts triumphantly. "That's where you are wrong," Prue tells him, "we still have the Power of Three." "That's where YOU'RE wrong. You may have the powers, not the Power of Three. That was something your dead sister took with her to the grave. And she's not coming back," he says sneering. Piper gasps and Prue bristles. "Sorry to disappoint you," says a well loved voice. Prue and Piper jump in surprise as Phoebe appears next to them. Phoebe doesn't give them a chance to say anything. "The shape-shifters spell," she commands. The sisters link hands and recite the spell. The warlock screams in pain as he disappears. "No! It can't be!"
Prue and Piper stare wordlessly at Phoebe. "Guys, say something," Phoebe asks. "I guess you're leaving again, huh?" Piper says, looking down at her feet, unable to stop the tears that rushed into her eyes. She wished that Phoebe would stop coming and going. She was glad that she still got to see her sister, but it wasn't easy having to say good-bye every time because they never knew if Phoebe would come back. Phoebe smiled and took her sisters' hands in her own. "No. I'm staying with you guys." Piper looks up with disbelief. "You mean?" "I'm not dead anymore," Phoebe finishes, grinning happily. "Really?" Phoebe gently touches Piper's cheek. "Really. I promise." Piper grabs Phoebe's hand and then hugs her tightly, tears of joy streaming down her face. Still hugging Piper, Phoebe looks at Prue. "Prue?" Prue steps forward and hugs Phoebe from the other side, tears running down her cheeks. The three stand there silently holding each other, like they never want to let go. Finally they all pull apart, smiling through their tears. Phoebe notices the curious and questioning looks in her older sisters' eyes. "Let's go home first," she tells them, before asking, "Did you guys bring the car or the jeep?" she asked hopefully. Prue shakes her head. "No. We used a Seek spell. Guess it's a cab." "Not exactly," Phoebe says excitedly. "Give me your hands and close your eyes." Prue and Piper look confused but do as asked. Phoebe takes a deep breath and concentrates. She wishes herself back home as she shuts her eyes. When they open their eyes, the Sisters Three find themselves in their own living room at Haliwell Manor. "Wow!" Piper and Prue say in unison. They turn to Phoebe who just smiles and motions towards the couch. "I'll explain everything."
* * *
"So they made us go through all that for nothing. It was only a test!" Prue exclaims, an hour later after hearing Phoebe's story. Phoebe just smiles, thinking about her encounter with the Elders. Piper looks at her enviously. "You are so lucky. You got to see Mom and Grams. Did they talk to you?" Phoebe nods. "All of it wasn't such a bucket of fun. Especially not getting hit by an energy bolt," she says shuddering, "Having Grams yell at you wasn't so nice either. The worst was knowing when and how it would happen, but just waiting for it to happen was terrible." Prue smiles and squeezes her hand comfortingly. "It's all over now." "Did Leo know about what was supposed to happen?" Piper asked. Phoebe bit her lower lip hesitantly. "Pheebs, I want to know," Piper insisted. Phoebe slowly nods her head. "Yes. I asked him not to tell you. He remembers it all as well." "By the way, what was the promise you made to Jamie?" Prue asks, exchanging smiles with Piper. Phoebe's face grows serious. "He asked me to promise never to leave him, like his family did," she says softly. "What did his family do?" Piper asks. "They died in a plane crash a year ago." Prue and Piper gasp. Phoebe lightens up somewhat. "It's okay. He's got over the worst. He's just afraid of it happening again. Oh, darn! I'm going to have to write another letter before I die, AGAIN!" "Whatever said and done, I'm really glad you are back," Piper says. "Me too," echoes Prue. Phoebe smiles. "Not half as glad as I am to be back." They hug again. Suddenly, Phoebe pulls away. Prue and Piper look at her with concern. Ignoring her sisters' expressions, Phoebe glances at the clock and gasps. "What day is it?" she asks urgently. "Saturday," Prue answers cautiously. "Why?" Piper wanted to know. "Jamie's picking me up at 7 for dinner," Phoebe says, dashing up the stairs to get ready.
* * *
"Where's Phoebe?" Prue asked with a yawn, coming into the kitchen. Piper shrugged. "I didn't hear her come in last night." "Me neither." Prue sat down and started on a waffle. Piper came and sat down across from her. "Phoebe has to make a decision about telling Jamie," Piper stated quietly. "And soon," added Prue, "but its up to her, not us." They ate in silence.
"Morning, Piper, Prue," Phoebe said quietly. Piper looked up. "Hey Phee?quot; she broke off abruptly when she saw whom Phoebe was with. Jamie had his arm securely around Phoebe's waist. Piper threw up her hands and froze the room. Phoebe rolled her eyes. "What was that for?" Prue and Piper just stared. "You didn't! I mean...It was just too late for him to go home, right?" Piper blurted out. Phoebe grinned mischievously. "No way! I wasn't that drunk. He said he didn't want to go too far. Even if we did, what makes you think I'd tell you." Prue shakes her head. "What about the family secret?" Phoebe frowned and let out a sigh. "Now is a good time as ever. Could you unfreeze him now?" Piper threw up her hands and Jamie unfroze. "Hey Piper, Prue. Oops, I forgot the flowers." Prue and Piper smiled. Jamie sure knew how to get attention. Jamie glanced at Phoebe and saw her frown. "Hey angel, what's wrong?" he asked, concern flooding his voice. Phoebe led him over to the table and sat down. She took a deep breath and began. "Jamie, there's something you need to know." "What?" he asked, worry spreading over his handsome face. "Me and my sisters are...well, different. We possess magical powers. Prue can move things with her mind. Piper can freeze time and I can see into the past and future," Phoebe paused to look at his face. Jamie's face was frozen in shock. Phoebe looked away and continued. "We are witches. Not the ones that ride on broomsticks mind you. We are the most powerful of a long line of good witches, starting with our ancestor, Melinda Warren." Phoebe was about to continue, when Jamie raised his hand. "Wait a minute. You're descendants of Melinda Warren?" he asked incredulously. Phoebe looks confused, but nods her head. "Three sisters, Melinda Warren. Oh my gosh, you're the Charmed Ones! The Power of Three!" Jamie exclaimed in disbelief. Phoebe, Piper and Prue are stunned. "You know?" Prue asks in surprise. Jamie takes a deep breath and looks at Phoebe. "Do you remember I told you that I had to wait for 6 months to get an internship before the accident?" he asks. Phoebe nods. "Since I had nothing to do, Dad said that I should keep myself occupied. So, I took a course on Witchcraft and Occult, you know for fun. We studied the legends of witches and stuff. Melinda Warren came up quite often. I never believed any of it - that is, until now," he continues. "So you knew about the legend," Prue says slowly. Jamie turns to her. "Yeah, but I didn't take it seriously. It also said you had a Book of Spells... something about Shadows, do you?" he asks. Prue nods her head with a slight smile. Turning back to Phoebe, Jamie grins. "The legend said you would be powerful, but it didn't say that you'd be this beautiful," he tells her, pulling her in for long, soft kiss. Phoebe returns it with a hug. "This doesn't make a difference?" she asks softly. Jamie pulls away and gazes into her soft brown eyes, seriously. "Why should it? I fell in love with you for who you are, not what you are," he says softly, wrapping his arms around her. Phoebe falls into his embrace with a sigh of relief. Prue and Piper smile. Things were definitely going Phoebe's way. Suddenly, a beeping noise interrupted the moment. Jamie broke the hug and reached into his pocket and brought out his pager. He looks at Phoebe apologetically. "Being a medical intern means that you have to work even on Sunday. I gotta go," he says, giving her a final kiss before standing up. Phoebe walks with him to the front door. As she opens the door, he stops her. "P3, tonight?" he asks. "I can't wait. See you there," she replies smiling. He gives her another kiss before heading out the door. Phoebe closes the door and leans against it, shutting her eyes.
A moment later, she goes back into the kitchen. Prue and Piper smile in a weird manner as she enters. She decides to ignore their looks. "Piper, do me a favor?" she asked of her older sister. Piper looks at her curiously. "What?" "Pinch me, and please tell me I'm not dreaming. If I am, I never want to wake up." Piper bursts out laughing, Prue following. "Don't worry Pheebs. You are awake." All three sisters burst out laughing.