DISCLAIMER: If you've seen them, I don't own them, just love to borrow them. It’s the beginning of one helluva amazing story line that if it goes according to plan will have some amazing plots. This story and the next two will possibly complete my series and I intend to take a break from writing for a while once they are complete. This Trilogy will be one roller coaster ride, from happiness to tragedy, to sorrow, anger and hate and back to love, stability and peace. I plan to use it to explore all the characters including the fourth sister, who I will refer to as Price, even though the actual show calls her Paige.
The Trilogy is dedicated to everyone at CFS and The Charmed Writers' Guild, namely Adri, Di, Rachel, Biba, Rellik and the rest of you who have given me more encouragement than I could ever have hoped for. This one's for you guys!!
"Mum!" Piper exclaimed, spinning round in surprise. She was in her room looking over the final attire she would wear for her wedding, when she happened to glance at herself in the mirror and saw her mother's reflection behind. "Darling, you are so beautiful," Patty said softly. Just then Phoebe and Prue walk into the room. "Whoa! I'm not seeing things, am I?" Prue said, visibly surprised. "Wait a minute…this can't be. Ghosts glow and, um, you're not glowing," Phoebe mumbled in surprise and confusion. "For today, I'm not a ghost, just your mother," Patty replied simply. "But…how?" Piper asked. Patty smiled at her. "After everything, 'They' put you and Leo through, they decided to do something for you, so they sent me down, just for today. Piper touches Patty's arm. "Am I dreaming?" she asked cautiously. Patty shook her head. "No. This is all very real." Mother and bride-to-be hug. Phoebe raises her brows suspiciously. After missing out on a mother all your life, you're reluctant to accept something for fear of losing it again. "Oh mum! Its good to see you," Prue said as Patty and Piper pull apart. Patty takes her hand. "You did a wonderful job protecting your sisters. I am so proud of you," she said, hugging her oldest daughter. Patty turned to Phoebe, her youngest daughter perhaps the most beautiful, and perhaps the one with the most burdened future. "From what I've seen and heard, seems like the next wedding in this family is yours." Phoebe nodded, but Prue and Piper could see the glimmer of hope in her eyes. "Maybe." Her tone held a hint of doubt and suspicion. "Phoebe, you have every reason to doubt me. You've grown up to be as wonderful as anyone could be after such a hard time. I only wish I was a part of that," Patty said quietly. Seeing Phoebe's expression open up, she continued purposefully. "But I knew that in the end everything would be okay because I had a premonition the day you were born." "What did you see?" Phoebe asked curiously as Prue and Piper joined her. Patty bit her lip slightly, wishing she didn't have to lie to her daughters. "I saw this moment. My daughters standing before me as three beautiful young women." As Patty said this, Phoebe still didn't look completely convinced, but she reached for her mother's hand, and sure enough, her world went black and white. She saw the premonition Patty described but in another setting, and a stranger beside her; A stranger who was vaguely familiar. "Mum!" Phoebe said, hugging her mother at last, keeping the details of her premonition to herself.
*****
The sisters descended the stairs with their mother and Piper gasped, as she saw the wedding arch Bane and Kevin were setting up. "Well, what do you think?" Phoebe asked with a grin. "Its beautiful," Piper breathed. "Just as beautiful as the bride," Kevin said with a smile, but his smile faded and he blushed hotly as he saw Patty with the sisters. The sisters exchanged amused glances. Kevin was usually a smooth-talker and a charmer. They had rarely seen him blush. "Aren't you going to introduce us?" Patty asked, looking towards Prue and Phoebe. "Uh, right. Kevin, my mother. Mum, my fianc?" Phoebe said. "Bane, my mum. Mum, my boyfriend," Prue continued. "Pleasure to meet you," Patty said as she shook hands with her future son-in-law. "The pleasure's all mine," Kevin responded politely. Bane also acknowledged Patty. "Um, doc? About, the…you know…um, its next week," Kevin told Phoebe. Prue, Piper and Patty turned quizzical looks towards Phoebe, whose jaw dropped. "Uh, I'll be right back," she said, pulling Kevin by arm and dragging him into the kitchen. "What was that all about?" Piper wondered aloud. Bane chuckled slightly. "Phoebe meeting his parents." "Ooh!" Prue and Piper said at the same time. Several minutes later, Phoebe and Kevin returned to the lounge. "Everything okay?" Prue asked innocently. "Yeah. Sure. Of course," Phoebe replied, shooting Kevin a sidelong glance. "Very convincing," Grams said bluntly, eyeing her youngest grand daughter. The distant ringing of a cell phone interrupted further conversation. Piper turned to glare at Phoebe. "Piper, relax. There is no way I'm going to walk out on my sister's wedding. Besides, I made sure everything was taken care of," Phoebe assured as she dug through the cushions for her phone. "Phoebe," she said, answering the phone as her tone turned professional. As she listened, Phoebe's expression became graver and angrier. "How the hell did that happen?" she demanded, more flustered than Patty had ever seen her. Seeing the looks sent her way, Phoebe ducked into the sunroom. From where they were, the others could still hear her conversation. "It may have been an accident, but you messed up a patient's medication. She was given a drug that she has a highly violent allergic reaction to, and for God's sake, she's pregnant!" There was a brief silence. "Okay. I want an immediate decompression of her stomach. Let's hope and pray that none of it has got into her system yet. Thank God it wasn't injected or we'd have lost both her and the baby by now. Page me!" Phoebe hung up abruptly before returning to her family. Her expression lightened up slightly, but the troubled look was still in her eyes. Piper knew she shouldn't ask, but she had to. "Do you have to go in?" Phoebe shook her head. "No. I can't do anything, maybe except be sued," she added under her breath. Just then, Victor came in with the flowers. He almost dropped them when he saw Patty. "Okay. Who brought my ex-wife back from the dead?" "Leave the issues till the reception," Penny warned. Phoebe and Prue glanced at their watches simultaneously. "Ooh. We're getting closer. Kevin, check on the groom. Bride, come on now," Phoebe said, grabbing Piper's hand and pulling her up the stairs. Prue was about to follow her sisters when Leo orbed in with a long robe. "What's that?" she asked. "This is my formal whitelighter wear," he explained. "Um, yeah, I-I hope you don't mind but we sort of decided that you should be a little bit more traditional, so we rented you a tux," Prue said. "Yup, if you'll just orb us over to my place, you can get dressed," Kevin told him. "Right." Kevin and Leo disappeared in a swirl of orbs. "Why do my daughters have to be involved with magical beings?" Victor sighed. "Coz, we’re not exactly mortal either. Besides, Kevin is a witch, just like us," Prue told him. Personally, she liked Kevin as a brother just as much as she liked Leo.
*****
(I really can't depict the events of the wedding so I won't even try. If you've watched Just Harried, just imagine that the events went somewhat smoothly, with electricity and no Astral-Prue. Assume that Piper and Leo orbed away for a romantic night and Patty and Grams left. Remember that there is NO Cole.)
(The following scene is possibly the next day. Piper and Leo have returned from their overnight adventure and have just met up with Prue.)
Prue opened her mouth to ask Piper a question, but was interrupted by the front door slamming shut. "Kevin, back off!" came Phoebe's voice angrily. "Trouble in paradise?" Piper asked Prue, who only shrugged. A moment later Phoebe was brought to an abrupt halt when she saw Piper. "Hey Piper! Had a nice time?" she teased half-heartedly, giving her sister a hug as Kevin came in, his face flushed with anger. Phoebe frowned as he spoke. "Phoebe, its Friday. If you're working you can change shifts, you've done it before." "Since when are you my boss," Phoebe demanded. "What the hell is your problem?" He asked in frustration. "What's yours?" she retorted. "We're not even married yet, and you're already trying to run my life!" Prue grimaced and Piper flinched, while Leo raised his eyebrows. The doorbell rang and Prue jumped up. "I'll get it." "We'll get it!" Piper spoke up, and dragged Leo out behind her.
Phoebe sighed angrily, before following them out of the kitchen, Kevin in tow. She stopped in surprise when she saw her boss in the living room. "Bob! What are you doing here?" she asked quietly, trying to keep her voice casual. He held up a white envelope. "I can't believe you're giving up like this!" "I have my reasons. Good ones," Phoebe responded quietly. "You did nothing wrong. Everything was done by the book. You are not responsible for this outcome! This hospital is not going to settle and neither are you!" Bob insisted forcefully. Phoebe sighed, then met her superior's eyes steadily. "The child died, Bob. While she was in that hospital, she was under my care. She was my responsibility. I may not be responsible, but someone has to take responsibility," Phoebe told him quietly, before starting for the front door. Bob caught her arm, forcing her to turn around. "If you think San Francisco Memorial is going to let its best doctor go down without a fight, you're way off base. You are the leading women's health practitioner in the state. Any other medical professional in this country will back you up without a doubt. However you might feel, I hope you attend the meeting at 7:30, Friday. There is nothing to implicate you for malpractice," he insisted. "Nothing but my conscience," Phoebe said, shrugging off her arm and walking out the door.
******
Phoebe sighed as she absently drove up to the stables, her sanctuary. A stableman saddled up her favorite horse and she mounted it. Everything she had worked for. So what if she was the best? Maybe it was a harmless mistake, but it cost someone their life. Phoebe sighed again, pulling on the reins to make the horse gallop faster. Why did their lives have to be so hard? It was bad enough that they were complicated, but this? And now, she'd got into a fight with Kevin. The first ever fight she'd had with him. "Why can't we just enjoy our lives? We try our best to help everyone but we end up hurting ourselves!" she called up to the stars as tears of frustration welled up in her eyes. She stubbornly held them in, as she heard the sounds of hoof prints approaching her. She turned abruptly. "Phoebe." It was Kevin. She turned away again, gazing into the night. He drew up beside her and stopped. "Phoebe I?quot; he began softly. "Kevin, no. I'm sorry. You didn't know. I said some really stupid things?quot; she cut him off. "I'm sorry. I really want you to meet my parents, but your career is important to you. I know how much mine means to me. You have enough things to worry about and I'm just adding to it." Phoebe sighed and smiled weakly. "What if we make it a late dinner?" she suggested. He leaned over to take her hand. "As long as you're there, the time or the place is irrelevant." A slight chuckle escaped Phoebe's lips. "Does your flattery know no end?" He grinned. "Nope. Not for you, anyway," he responded. "Thanks. I guess I needed cheering up." "Kevin's cheering services at your disposal." Phoebe shook her head.
******
Phoebe sat cross-legged on her bed, typing furiously at her laptop. She had just logged onto a medical research web site and was browsing through articles with similar cases. She heard the phone ringing downstairs and glanced up briefly. A minute later, Prue called up the stairs. "Phoebe!" Letting out an audible sigh, she hurried down the stairs. On reaching the landing, she raised her eyebrows quizzically at her oldest sister. "Who is it?" "Mike McGraw?" Prue responded curiously. Phoebe sighed again, running her fingers through her hair tiredly. "My lawyer," she said, taking the phone off Prue.
When she hung up, she wandered into the kitchen in search of something to eat and found both sisters waiting there for her. "Pheebs? Care to explain what's going on?" Piper asked quietly. Phoebe flopped down on a chair. "Some of the staff accidentally messed up a patient's medication. She ended up with a drug she was allergic to. Remember the phone call I got before the wedding?" Getting a nod in response from her sisters she continued wearily. "When I found out, I had them decompress her gut, but it was too late. The drug was already in her system and there was nothing we could do. That's why I had to go as soon as the ceremony was over." Phoebe paused closing her eyes for a moment. "Go on," Prue urged gently. "She started having a series of convulsions, that was her reaction. She was jerking so bad, her uterus tore?quot; Phoebe faltered, and Prue and Piper took her hands. "We spent three hours in surgery trying to save her and the baby. God! If you've ever seen so much blood!" Piper grimaced inwardly. She couldn't stand the sight of blood. "That's why we couldn't reach you for ages," Prue said, remembering how many times they had tried to phone Phoebe, but had been unable to reach her. Phoebe nodded before continuing. "We saved her, but now, she and her husband are suing me for malpractice for losing the baby. I will lose my license. Maybe even face a small jail term." "You did nothing wrong!" Piper insisted. Phoebe sighed shakily. "Maybe not, but we all do this sometime in our lives. When something goes wrong, we all want someone or something to blame. It doesn't matter if it's right or wrong. If that was my baby, I know how I'd feel. I just wish I'd done something. I feel so…so guilty. When Betty first got pregnant, I found out and told her. I did her first ultrasound. I've been her doctor since the beginning of her pregnancy and less than a month left, she loses it. I'm not even sure I want to fight the lawsuit, but the hospital won't let me back down. Maybe for its reputation, maybe for my sake. I don't know." Prue and Piper listened intently as Phoebe poured out the details and jumbled up emotions. "Either way there is no winner. They lost the baby and I lost a patient. And to top it all off, I have to meet my future mother-in-law in the middle of this crisis!" "Uh, Phoebe. Kevin didn't look very happy yesterday," Prue began. "I know, we were arguing about a date to meet his parents and I couldn't make it because I have a meeting at the hospital because of all this. Don't worry, we worked it out."
*******
(I really don't know why I put in all this medical mumbo jumbo, but come to think of it, I've done it in every story since the time I gave Phoebe a career. I guess its because my other favorite TV shows are ER and Strong Medicine, both intense medical drama and I sort of want to become a doctor too. If you find it annoying, I'm really sorry but I can't help it.)
Okay let's say the mess at the hospital was cleared up as the patients eventually dropped the lawsuit and now Phoebe's in the clear. We now head straight to the scenes where Phoebe meets her fianc?s parents. This should be interesting.
Prue and Piper were coming down the stairs when Phoebe walked in. "Hi Pheebs," they chorused in unison. "Hey!" Phoebe returned absently. "What's up?" Prue questioned noting her sister's distraction. "Uh, if you were going to dinner to meet your fianc?s parents, what would you wear?" Phoebe asked worriedly. Prue had to smile. "Never had that problem and I'm already married," Piper joked lightly. Phoebe rolled her eyes. "Guys, I'm serious. Especially if his mother happens to be a witch." "Something classy, not flashy, yet elegant and ravishing," Prue suggested thoughtfully. "Like?" Phoebe prompted. "That's for you to decide," Piper told her. Phoebe sighed. "Thanks for your help," she muttered sarcastically. "Hey! Did you ask Kevin?" Piper questioned. "Yeah, and he was like 'Does it even matter?'" Phoebe retorted. "Casual? Evening wear? What?" "How about a black strapless or strap dress?" Piper suggested, "it does fit Prue's criteria. I wonder what Leo's parents were like." "Thanks. Talking about angel boy, where is he?" Phoebe wondered, starting up the stairs. Piper frowned. "On a mission for 'Them." "Oh honey, I'm sorry," Phoebe said, giving her a peck on the cheek as she passed them on her way up. "Yeah well, aren't we all?" Piper mumbled. "Sweetie, he'll be back as soon as he can. You know that," Prue told her. Piper only sighed.
Phoebe took a deep breath as she drew up outside Kevin's apartment. She got out of her car and approached the entrance. Going into the elevator, she punched in the number of his floor. She tapped her foot nervously as it climbed upwards slowly.
She rang the doorbell and waited nervously, shifting from one foot to the other. A minute later, the door opened and there stood Kevin dressed casually in black combats and a T-shirt. "Hey!" he greeted warmly, as he took her coat. Together, they strolled into the lounge just as his mother came in from the kitchen. "Um, mum, my fiancée. Phoebe, my mother." They shook hands. "It’s a pleasure to meet you, Mrs. Grant," Phoebe said with a smile. "The pleasure is all mine and please, call me Marcia. Kevin tells me that you're a witch," his mother began. Phoebe nodded. At that moment, another gentleman wearing black trousers and a sweater came in. He looked like an elderly version of Kevin. "Ah, Phoebe, I presume?" he said as he shook her hand. "Yes, sir." "Oh, now we can't be having that. Please call me Jonathan, Jon for short." "So, tell me about yourself," Marcia continued. Kevin shot his mother a pleading look saying, 'Mum, she's not a criminal up for questioning!' Phoebe smiled. "I'm the youngest, both my older sisters and I have powers. We're the Charmed Ones. We're descendants of Melinda Warren. Apart from vanquishing demons, I'm a physician at San Francisco Memorial Hospital. I'm 26 years old?quot; "And your parents?" Jon questioned. Kevin frowned as he saw Phoebe's smile fade. She sighed and looked down at her hands. "My mother died when I was three. She was killed by a water demon. Our father left us before mum died. We grew up with Grams who died four years ago," she stated quietly. "Oh, dear, I'm sorry to hear that."
And so the evening progressed, with Phoebe learning more about Kevin's childhood and his parents, while she revealed details of her life, both normal and supernatural. Kevin's parents had mentioned that they would want to meet Prue and Piper and Phoebe had extended invitations to them for dinner at Spago's, hoping to get her sisters to come along. To her, his parents weren't as bad as she'd originally dreaded, but she was still slightly uneasy. It reached a peak, when just after dinner, she was paged, and forced to leave. Kevin walked her to the door. As she put on her coat, she turned to him. "Kevin, I'm sorry." He shook his head with a warm smile. "Don't be. You were wonderful and I know they love you. See you tomorrow," he said, as he kissed her softly on the lips.
The next morning, Phoebe slipped in through the front door carrying a large box of freshly baked muffins. Closing the door behind her, she made her way into the kitchen where she found her sisters and brother-in-law pouring out coffee. "Morning. Anyone want muffins?" "Mmm. From De Caf? Who can say no?" Prue responded with a smile as Phoebe put the box on the table. "Okay, what's the catch?" Piper demanded teasingly. "Huh?" "She means why bring home an entire box of muffins from the most expensive coffee house in the area," Leo explained with a grin. Phoebe rolled her eyes. "I know its short notice, but could you guys make a dinner date tonight at Spago's?" Seeing the raised eyebrows, she continued quickly. "I made the reservations. And I'm paying for it. All you have to do is be there. Kevin's mum and dad want to meet my family and they're leaving tomorrow. Please." "That explains the muffins," Piper stated matter-of-factly to Prue and Leo. "Phoebe, I'm really busy, plus I agreed to some alone together time with Bane," Prue began, successfully hiding a smirk. Piper caught on and grinning at Leo added her complaint. "I can't just leave P3 like that. Besides, newly weds do like to have some time to themselves." Leo shook his head sympathetically at Phoebe. "Guys please. I'm begging you. I've paid in advance for eight so Bane and Leo can come along and then you guys can go do whatever. Please? I'll do anything," she pleaded. "You've paid for eight? Wow, that's a three figure number!" Leo exclaimed. "Yeah! I'm gonna have a helluva credit card bill. Prue Piper please." Phoebe put on one of her famous puppy dog looks, one that neither of her sisters could ever resist. "Well…the food is good," Piper relented. "And you're paying for it," Prue added. "Yes!" "Thank you. Thank you!" Phoebe said with a sigh of relief, giving both her sisters a quick hug.
(Here I go again! Assuming everything went well there after, I now take you guys to Phoebe's wedding and stuff.)
Phoebe walked in through the back door and smack into Leo. "Oops. Sorry Leo." "Uh huh. You're not on Cloud number nine yet," he teased as Prue and Piper trudged in behind her. Phoebe perched on the kitchen counter, ticking things off her list. "Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue. All covered. Next?quot; Prue grabbed the list off her. "You're the bride, we should be doing the organizing!" Phoebe was hardly paying attention. "Okay, church ready. Hall booked. Caterers all done. Florists delivered?quot; "Phoebe!" Prue said, grabbing her hands. "Did you hear a word I said? Leave this list for us to tick off. Besides, you checked and double-checked. They're done! And I thought Piper was paranoid." "Hey!" Piper and Phoebe protested in unison. Leo chuckled. "She does have a point." Piper glared at her husband. "Whose side are you on?" Without responding, Leo discreetly orbed out. "Whitelighters!" Piper grumbled. "Hey girls!" Victor said as he came in. "How's the bride?" "Panicking and fretting," Prue told him. "Well, you better start getting ready. The ceremony's in less than two hours," Victor said, glancing at his watch. "What!" Phoebe burst out. "Relax! We'll have you ready in no time," Piper assured, as she and Prue pulled Phoebe up the stairs.
"Whoa! You look amazing!" Prue breathed as Piper set the veil on Phoebe's head. She stepped back to take in her sister's figure. Prue was right. Amazing was the word to describe. Phoebe was wearing a silky white off the shoulder, full-length dress, with three-quarter sleeves and lace on the outside. It had a deep v-line neck, which was decorated with the dazzling diamond necklace Kevin had given her shortly before he proposed. Her shoulder-length hair was left loose underneath the veil and the golden brown locks contrasted beautifully with the dress. Her make-up had been done to perfection. Just then, Leo and Victor came in. When they saw Phoebe, both men's jaws dropped in amazement. Piper placed her hand over Leo's mouth and grinned at her sisters. "I only hope this doesn't happen to the groom." Leo blushed hotly and Phoebe had to giggle, despite her anxiety. "Is Kevin here yet?" she questioned. Leo nodded. "Yes and so are most of the guests." Prue peaked out the door. "Brendan wants a word. I'll be right back," she said, following Leo and Victor outside into the church hall. Piper turned to Phoebe to see her sister adjusting her veil on her head. "You really look great." Phoebe turned. "Thanks sis. This is everything I'd ever hoped it to be." Piper smiled wistfully. "Its too bad I fell in love with a whitelighter. I always wished my wedding was something like this." Phoebe sighed and reached for Piper's hand. "Weddings are about love, not money. You had two guests at your wedding that could never attend Prue's or mine. I love you guys, and I'm really glad you're here, but no matter how huge this ceremony is, it would be so much more if mum and Grams could be here," she said softly. Piper smiled at her baby sister, who was no longer her baby. Kevin was one very lucky guy to hold her sister's heart. "We're supposed to be saying things to help you out, not the other way round," Piper reminded lightly. "You're helping more just by being here." "So, I know I'm not supposed to ask, but where's your honeymoon going to be?" Prue asked curiously, as she stepped back into the room. Phoebe shrugged. "Kevin refused to say a word. The suspense is killing me," Phoebe responded, before growing serious again. "What if things get witchy?" "Then the power of two will have to do. There is no way we're gonna tear you away from your wedding or your honeymoon to indulge in demon muck," Prue said firmly. "I second that and 'They' better be listening!" Piper added. "Ready ladies," Victor called from outside the door. "Yes!" Prue called back. Phoebe gulped nervously as Piper handed her the bouquet. "The music's starting," she said nervously, knowing full well that her sisters could hear it.
Phoebe strolled out of the room, Prue and Piper not far behind, dressed in identical dresses of pale shades of pink. As she stepped into the hall, she sucked in a sharp breath. The ribboned aisle seemed so long and scary, but when she saw Kevin standing at the end, she knew she was about to take one of the most rewarding walks in her life. She slipped her arm into Victor's as the guests all rose to their feet. Slowly, the father and daughter approached the front. Victor stopped beside Kevin and together, hand in hand, the two weds knelt in front of Brendan, who would be conducting the ceremony. They each recited the vows after him and finally exchanged rings and stood. "By the power infested in me by the state of California, I pronounce you, man and wife. You may kiss the bride."
It seemed as if everyone in the audience held their breath as the newlyweds turned to each other. Kevin reached out tenderly and lifted the veil that covered Phoebe's face. One hand went to join hers underneath the bouquet, while the other gently cupped her chin. Their eyes met, holding each other's face in an intense electric gaze. Wordlessly, his head dipped to catch her lips. Phoebe's eyelids fluttered close as their lips locked, completing their bond and commitment to each other for life. Prue and Piper watched, almost tearfully as their baby sister finalized her release from under their wings. Victor could remember the day she was born almost as if it was yesterday, but today, he stood watching another man take the role he should have played years ago. Unseen to them all, Patty and Penny were watching the ceremony. "You did well raising them, mum." "We did. Prue and Piper had more to do with her than anyone of us."
The reception was held at a hall adjacent to the church and the catering was done by Quake. There were a lot of guests, many of them friends and colleagues of both the bride and groom, which included other medical professionals. People the sisters had met on their magical encounters were also present. It was a beautiful reception. The entire club had been expensively decorated with garlands of flowers and a large buffet table had been set up. After the meal, the first music came on, and keeping up with tradition, the bride and groom were the first to step onto the floor.
I do swear…that I’ll always be there?/font>
I’d give anything and everything and I will always care
Through weakness and strength, happiness and sorrow,
For better for worse, I will love you
With every beat of my heart
From this moment…life has begun
From this moment…your are the one
Right beside you is where I belong
From this moment on
From this moment…I have been blessed
I live only for your happiness
And for your love I'd give my last breath
From this moment on
I give my hand to you with all my heart
Can’t wait to live my life with you can’t wait to start
You and I will never be apart
My dreams came true because of you
From this moment…as long as I live
I will love you…I promise you this
There is nothing…I wouldn’t give
From this moment on
Oh Oh
You’re the reason I believe in love
And you’re the answer to my prayers from up above
All we need is just the two of us
My dreams…came true…because of you
From…this…moment as long as I live
I will love you, I promise you this
There is nothing I wouldn’t give
From this moment
I will love you as long as I live
From this moment on
All throughout the song, Phoebe and Kevin had been staring into each other's eyes almost as if they were singing this song to the other. By this time, the other couples had joined them on the dance floor, among them the bridesmaids. The next song to come on was Witchcraft by Frank Sinatra. Simultaneously, Phoebe and Kevin turned in Prue and Piper's direction. Both older sisters smiled guiltily.
As the reception drew to a close, it was time for the bride and groom to depart on their honeymoon. Kevin easily swept Phoebe off her feet and into his arms, carrying her outside to a waiting limousine with tinted windows. The chauffeur opened the door for them. "Wow! Everything in style!" Bane commented, as the limo drove away.
******
Two weeks later, Piper was sorting through the mail when Prue came downstairs. "Hey! Aren't the lovebirds due back today? Everything ready?" Prue said. "Mm hmm," Piper responded as she examined a package. "What's that?" Prue asked curiously. "It's for Phoebe. I signed for it, postmarked Florida," Piper said thoughtfully. "Well maybe she bought something and had it shipped here," Prue offered. "Yeah, but the postcards we got were from Hawaii and Paris." Piper was about to say more, but the sound of tyres crunching in the driveway alerted them. "They're back!" Prue said, as they hurried into the living room to turn off the lights. "Hello, anyone home! Guys?" Phoebe called out. "Oh well. Looks like we have more time alone together," she joked. Her tone betrayed her disappointment. "Mm hmm. They've probably?quot; Kevin trailed off as he flipped on the light switch to see the huge banner. "Surprise!" As all the lights came on, they saw everyone, including Prue, Piper, Bane, Leo, Victor, Darryl and Kevin's parents. "You were saying?" Prue said, looking towards Kevin with a grin. Phoebe looked up at the banner which read, 'WELCOME BACK, KEVIN & PHOEBE GRANT!' and smiled. She and Kevin had already discussed this, and they had agreed that she would keep her maiden name. "You've made a name for yourself as Phoebe Haliwell, and that's how it shall remain, but I want our kids to be Grants," he had said. Prue and Piper pulled her into a hug. "Welcome back, sis, or is it Mrs. Grant?" Prue teased. Phoebe smiled back as Kevin grinned at her. "Actually, its Mrs. Haliwell-Grant," she said with a grin. The family enjoyed a private party, which was a far cry from the actual wedding, but it was obvious that Phoebe and Kevin were very happy. Once it was all over, Phoebe bid farewell to her mother and father-in-law, and her father. Kevin wrapped his arms around her waist. "I could stay here forever, but I have to check in at the office," he said wistfully. Phoebe kissed him lightly. "Go on. I'm not going anywhere until next week." "I hate to interrupt, but this came in the mail today," Piper said, handing her the package. Phoebe furrowed her brow briefly. "Oh that," she said, exchanging knowing glances with her husband. "Before I go, let's go unpack. Oh, and Piper, do you trust me?" Kevin added, looking at Piper. Piper narrowed her eyes. "You not to be a demon, yes." "What he means is, would you trust him with your kitchen?" Phoebe explained. Piper smirked. "More than I would trust you, Pheebs. Why?" "Well, seeing as I'm making myself a more or less permanent house guest, would you mind if I cook on some days." Piper raised her eyebrows. "Whoa! That's a change. I've been living with two sisters all my life, and they've never volunteered to do it!" "The only reason I'm doing it is coz it’s a hobby. My mum's a great cook and she made sure I learnt some of her recipes," he explained with a grin. "Isn't he an angel?" Phoebe asked. "Nope, that's Leo. But I'm sure he gets all naughty and non-angelic when he's with Piper alone," Kevin teased, causing Piper to blush hotly. Prue and Phoebe burst out laughing. "I think we better get you upstairs before she decides to spontaneously combust you," Phoebe said tartly, before teleporting herself and Kevin out of the room.
After Kevin left for his office, Prue and Piper decided to pursue their baby sister and drill her for details on her honeymoon. The door was slightly ajar, and they wondered in without knocking just in time to see Phoebe hide something under her pillow. Prue wanted to ask what it was, but thought better of it and kept her mouth shut. "Okay, he's gone. Now spill," she demanded jumping on the bed beside Piper. "It was totally romantic. Hawaii, sunny beaches and all, and then Paris, the Eiffel tower and lots of really great sex," Phoebe responded. Phoebe continued to describe the events of her romantic getaway, and she waved her hands about vividly as she spoke, when Piper suddenly caught it. "What?" "Wow! Expensive piece of work there!" Prue commented, when she saw the silver bracelet on her sister's wrist. It had two slim bands down the side, with short-chain clasps at the bottom. On top at the very center was a triquetra. "Isn't it gorgeous?" Phoebe asked. "I got it custom-made." "Kevin's got money to spend, doesn't he?" Piper said. "I guess so, but he didn't buy this. I did, and I got two more for my most favorite people in this world," Phoebe said as she pulled out two velvet boxes from under her pillow. On the top of each purple case were her sister's names in gold lettering. Phoebe handed Prue and Piper their respective items. "Pheebs, they're beautiful," Piper said. "Absolutely gorgeous and pretty expensive too," Prue said, gazing at her sister fondly. "Glad you like it, and you guys are worth a gazillion times more," Phoebe responded with a warm smile. Prue and Piper pulled her in for a hug. "I can't believe you're already married. I can still remember the day you were born. You spent the whole night screaming at the top of your lungs," Prue said. "Neither can I. I never thought I'd ever even fall in love again after Jamie," Phoebe admitted softly. "You deserve to be happy, Pheebs. You're a wonderful person. Its too bad Prue and I are gonna lose out on that a bit," Piper told her. "No, you won't. A few months of marriage is nothing compared to a lifetime of sisterhood. Besides, we'll be sticking around here a lot till we get our own place," Phoebe promised. The sisters snuggled up on the bed together just like old times. "I'm the happiest person in the world," Phoebe whispered. Little did they know how soon their lives would be changed, possibly forever.
******
A month has gone by since the wedding, and the Haliwells are one big, happy family, fighting the occasional demon together.
This is all prone to change when one afternoon, Leo orbs in with a troubled expression. "Leo, what's wrong?" Piper asked immediately, sensing something was wrong. "Where's Prue and Phoebe?" he asked, just as Kevin came into the room. "Prue's out with Bane, and Phoebe's at the hospital. Why? Are we headed for demon trouble?" Kevin asked anxiously. Leo shook his head, "No, but this is serious and urgent. How soon can you get Prue and Phoebe home?" Leo questioned. Kevin pulled out his cell phone as Piper reached for hers. He dialed Phoebe's phone as Piper got through to Prue and told her to come home immediately. As Piper hung up, Kevin sighed frustrated. "She won't pick up. I'm only getting her voice mail. Let me try page her," he said. Leo sighed, sitting on the table, putting his head in his hands. He couldn't believe he had to do this.
Barely a half-hour later, Prue and Bane came rushing in. "I think we should wait for Phoebe," Leo said. It was well over an hour before Phoebe came home. She burst in through the front door and came to an abrupt stop in the living room with a sigh of relief. "Sorry I'm late. We received a dozen critical patients at the same time and it got pretty hectic," she explained breathlessly. "Where's the demon?" Leo sighed deeply. "No demon. At least not in this reality." "What?" Leo held up his hands as he began his explanation. "There's this realm where a powerful demon is using an ancient limpid or crystal to control an entire population. He has organized an army to conquer all other realities and within a short time, his massacre will begin." As he paused, Prue posed the million-dollar question. "What does this have to do with us?" Leo sighed again. He hated this. True, he was their whitelighter and guide, but they were more than that. Now they were his family, the only family he had. "The demon must be stopped, but the only way is for those he controls to rebel against him. For this to happen, the spell must be broken. Only a powerful witch is capable of breaking it, but that witch has to have psychic or telepathic powers to break the power of the crystal." There! He'd dropped the bombshell, and let his words sink in.
Phoebe drew in a sharp breath. Witch. Psychic powers. Telepathic powers. That was definitely her. Kevin seemed to realize it too, for she felt his arms tighten round her waist. Suddenly, Piper jumped up from her seat and whirled towards Leo. "How dare you come here and tell us this? No. You heard me! Phoebe is not going anywhere!" she yelled angrily, yet almost fearfully. Phoebe stood up, grabbing Piper by the arm and forcing her to sit next to her. Looking at Prue, she could see the same fiery blaze in the eyes of both older sisters. In a quiet, yet firm voice, Phoebe finally broke the silence. "Let him finish." Leo looked away as he continued. "The psychic powers give you something like immunity to the spell of the limpid. That way you won't fall under its control. Its complicated, but 'They' tell me that you'll figure it out in time." "How can you be sure it'll work? Why the Charmed Ones of this reality? Why not another witch, instead of Phoebe?" Prue burst out, echoing Piper's reaction. "Prue, Piper. I don't like where this headed either, but Leo is just laying the facts out one by one. It's not his fault," Kevin spoke up to everyone's surprise. Prue and Piper fell silent, then, realizing that there was no point in fighting him. He was right. Leo was only following orders. "That's the risk. No one knows for sure, if your powers will leave you invulnerable to the crystal's spell. If it controls you…you'll bend to its will and all is lost…You will never make it back to this world," Leo said, once more treading on a thin line. "Why me?" Phoebe asked quietly. "Charmed Ones are the most powerful witches. If anyone can, its you…Why not from another reality, I don't know, but 'They' say its because your powers have already demonstrated their effect," he explained. "Like with the Woogyman and Tempus," Phoebe stated. Leo only nodded. "Phoebe, they need to know what you say. When you make up your mind, tell me, and I'll let them know. You aren't under any pressure. It's purely your choice," he concluded finally. Phoebe rolled her eyes in disgust. "First you tell me, that the fate of this world and all others rests on my decision, and then you say no pressure! How long do I get to make up my mind?" "Whoa! Wait a minute! You're even considering this?" Piper asked incredulously. Phoebe looked down, unable to meet her sister's eyes. "Phoebe, what about this world. It needs the power of three. Phoebe, we can't lose you," Prue insisted pleadingly. Phoebe sighed. "I didn't say I was going to do it," she said defensively. "No, but you didn't exactly turn it down either. Phoebe, I don't know you as well as your sisters do, but I do know you well enough to realize that you're not the kind of person to back down or shy away from anything, regardless of its hazards to you," Kevin said quietly, his coffee-colored eyes meeting his wife's. Phoebe looked away and back at Leo. "How long?" "Tomorrow morning at the latest."
******
The next morning, when Phoebe and Kevin solemnly made their way downstairs to the kitchen, Prue, Bane, Piper and Leo were all there. Everyone glanced up, and Prue and Piper knew, from the look in their little sister's eyes, that she had made up her mind. Kevin sat down heavily with a sad sigh, as Phoebe pulled out two mugs and poured out coffee. No one dared to break the silence, until Phoebe finally did. "When do I have to leave?" her voice was deathly calm, but Piper could see the internal battle that waged inside, through her eyes. Leo drew in a deep long breath as she rose. "I'll tell 'Them'. Are you sure about this?" "As sure as I'll ever be," Phoebe said, as he orbed out. Phoebe wordlessly handed Kevin his mug. He grabbed her hand and pulled her onto his lap. The silence was deafening. No one said a word. Finally, with a resigned sigh, Prue faced her younger sister. "Why are you doing this, Pheebs? You know what could happen." Phoebe looked down with a sigh. "I do, Prue. I know. If I don't do this, goodness knows how many people, in how many worlds, maybe even ours, will die. I would never be able to live with myself, knowing I could have done something. Even if I don't succeed, I'll at least have tried." "Phoebe, what about the Power of Three in this world?" Piper said, desperately grasping for straws. "It's only temporary. This world will still have the Power of Two," Phoebe said simply, standing up and walking over to the window. "Prue, Piper, if it was you. If it were your powers that were needed, wouldn't you go? Would you back down and refuse?" she asked softly, looking directly at her older sisters. Prue and Piper didn't…couldn't…answer her. "Guys, I'm the youngest and you are used to looking out for me and…Don't think I don't appreciate it coz I do. I really do, but I can make my own choices. Please, you have to understand," Phoebe insisted. Just then, Leo orbed back in. Everyone watched him in silence, waiting for him to speak. "They can make arrangements as soon as you are ready to leave, um, you know, like from the hospital and all," he told her. Phoebe nodded, picking her car keys from the counter. "I'll see what I can do. The sooner I go, the sooner I can come back. I'll see you at P3 later," she said. Prue and Piper just nodded. Kevin stood up too, and together, he and Phoebe left. Piper glared at Leo who glared back sadly. "I'm sorry, Piper, but this is a decision that only Phoebe can make. You know that as well as I do," he said.
****
Phoebe spent the rest of the day working and making arrangements to take time off work. She was glad she had so much to do, it would keep her mind off the sacrifice she was about to make and the life she was about to throw away. But the impending dread of the time to come was hanging heavily in her thoughts, even though she had been successful enough to hide the severity of her emotions from her family. How much longer she could pretend like it wasn't such a big deal, she had no idea.
Without even thinking, she found herself at the graveyard, somewhere she had come to quite frequently over the past few weeks. "Oh, mum! What is it that you are hiding from us?" she whispered to the heavens as she laid some fresh flowers on the tombstone. "Am I doing the right thing? Should I risk everything for this? What about Prue and Piper?" She sighed loudly, knowing that her questions would be unanswered. With these thoughts engaged in her mind, she walked back to her car and started to drive home. Still engrossed in her thoughts, she turned on the radio. She was brought out of her reverie as the words of a song sunk in.
"Another turning point a fork stuck in the road
Time grabs you by the wrist directs you where to go
So make the best of this test and don't ask why
It's not a question but a lesson learned in time
It's something unpredictable but in the end
It's right I hope you've had the time of your life
So take the photographs and still frames in your mind
Hang it on a shelf in good health and good time
Tattoos and memories and dead skin on trial
For what it's worth it was worth all the while
It's something unpredictable but in the end
It's right I hope you've had the time of your life."
When she reached home, Phoebe was glad that there was no one there. She didn't think she could face her sisters, and especially Kevin. Showering and changing into fresh clothes, she applied a touch of make up to perfection. Glancing at herself in the mirror, she gazed around her room. Would she ever see this room again once she left? "Great! You're acting like you want to die!" she chided herself, as she forced herself to brush aside her negative thoughts and made her way downstairs and out to her car. She drove to P3 reluctantly but determinedly.
Outside the entrance she paused a minute to collect her thoughts. Taking a deep breath, she wondered inside. As she approached the bar, she saw Kevin looking towards her and their eyes met. She looked away after a moment and approached them. Leo turned to look her in the eye as she spoke. "I've taken a month off, saying I'll extend it if the need arises. Otherwise, it’s a family emergency and I'll be out of reach," she told him, forcing her voice to remain calm and detached. She knew that the minute she let emotion into it, she couldn't get anything done. He nodded. "So, the day after tomorrow?quot; Phoebe stopped him with a nod and forced a smile. "Let's forget like none of this is happening for the rest of the night, please. That way I can enjoy some real living for god knows how long?" There was small but deafening silence as her words sunk in, and Phoebe couldn't help the pang of guilt that went through her heart. "Let's dance," she said finally, breaking the silence. Kevin took her hand, and together they stepped out onto the dance floor. Phoebe was determined to enjoy herself, and as her body moved rhythmically to the fast beat, she could feel her sisters' eyes on her. She felt guilty for what they were going through, but she felt it too. She was about to throw away everything, including her life for the greater good. 'Conscience sucks!' she thought wryly. She looked up at Kevin, and even though he too was moving to the beat, his eyes were far away, as if he was in a different world altogether. Realizing that she was watching him, he snapped back to reality and gazed into her eyes. There was so much in them. He could spend all eternity just staring into them. They said so much about the soul hidden behind them. From all the pain and suffering, to the love, passion and life and he had been hypnotized by their beauty from the very beginning. She was a part of him, his soul, his very being. He couldn't lose her, not now, not ever.
From across the floor, Prue and Piper, completely oblivious to their men, were watching their sister. The pair's bodies were moving perfectly in sync, the fluid movements that came with practiced ease, and yet, Piper could tell that they were really on entirely different planets, but on the same train of thought. A slower but delicate tune, came out on the sound system. Prue and Piper knew it was one of Phoebe's favorites, from a disc, she had specifically mixed.
"Hold on, hold on to yourself
Cause this is gonna hurt like hell
Hold on, hold on to yourself
You know that only time will tell
What is it in me that refuses to believe
This isn't easier than the real thing."
Phoebe closed her eyes, remembering the irony of fate. She leant into Kevin as they slow danced, and their movements co-ordinated perfectly, just as when they danced to a faster beat.
"My love, you know that you're my best friend
You know I'd do anything for you
My love, let nothing come between us
My love for you is strong and true
Am I in Heaven here or am I...
At the crossroads I am standing
So now you're sleeping peaceful, I lie awake and pray
That you'll be strong tomorrow and we'll see another day
And we will praise it and love the light that brings a smile
Across your face.
Oh God, if you're out there won't you hear me
I know we've never talked before
Oh God, the man I love is leaving
Won't you take him when he comes to your door
Am I in Heaven here or am I in Hell
At the crossroads I am standing
So now you're sleeping peaceful, I lie awake and pray
That you'll be strong tomorrow and we'll see another day
And we will praise it and love the light that brings a smile
So now you're sleeping peaceful, I lie awake and pray
That you'll be strong tomorrow and we'll see another day
And we will praise it and love the light that brings a smile
Across your face
Hold on, hold on to yourself
For this is gonna hurt like hell."
Kevin tightened his hold on his wife involuntarily, as if the mere thought would keep her from leaving. He might as well be singing it to her. She was everything to him. And yet, he knew that shortly, she would be leaving him, not knowing when and if she would ever return. He sighed inwardly. It was her strength, her courage and her passion for everything in life that he first fell in love with, and now, he almost despised those very same qualities, for he knew, that it was the same things that were taking her away from him.
Phoebe shut her eyes even tighter, forcing back the tears that threatened to flow and finally let her mind go, where it had been lingering along, and trying to go for hours. To all the memories of her life, within her, and everything that she knew she was throwing away. Why was fate so cruel? Why did it wait till the best of times to twist the world? She was in heaven, a successful career, a wonderful family, and most of all, wedded bliss. Now, all that would change.
Prue and Piper were still watching the smooth languid, yet distracted movements of their sister and brother-in-law. The song brought unwanted tears to their eyes. It hit far too close to home.
Prue bit down on her lip, as she held in the tears. Phoebe had been through so much in her life, and now that she'd finally found some happiness, it had to be taken away. She couldn't help but wonder why the cruelest of things happened to the most wonderful of people.
Piper bit back a sob as tears clouded her vision, and she felt Leo's arms tighten around her. If this was how she felt now, could she even live in her baby sister's absence? What if she never came back? God, no. She had held on to Phoebe for so long, she couldn't let go now. Did it matter to Phoebe? She couldn't help wondering whether it did. Glancing at Prue, she could see the unshed tears glistening in her older sister's piercing blue eyes. Blinking back her own tears, she looked in the direction of the sister she was going to lose, and was almost surprised, yet relieved to see Phoebe's face buried against Kevin's shoulder and she could see the slight shaking of her shoulders. Phoebe was crying, and seeing the way Kevin had his face hidden in her hair, Piper knew that he must be too, even though he was trying to hide it.
******
The next day, every minute was spent within the confines of the manor. Not just the sisters, but Kevin as well. Most of the time, he would spend numbly flipping channels on the TV, only looking up when Phoebe came in to the room or whenever her voice reached his ears. This was when he knew that she had to sort things out with her sisters, but at all other times, he stayed close to her, almost afraid that she'd disappear before the allotted and dreaded time. Prue and Piper never left Phoebe's side. Though they tried hard to hide, inside they were tearing apart. This was worse than any demon attack. This tore and ate at their souls. Could they even keep up with the demons once Phoebe was gone? She knew the Book of Shadows better than anyone else and of the three, she was the most in touch with her Wiccan side. Phoebe tried to lighten up the mood, but she knew no amount of jokes or cheering up could do anything. To be honest, she was dying inside. All her life she had had her sisters behind her. The first time she hadn't, was when she'd gone to New York, but after that things had changed. Now, she was about to go away, with a strong chance of never returning and she didn't know if she could live with it. To her, it seemed like every second that ticked away, took a part of her life with it.
That night, in their bedroom, she was finally alone with her husband, the man who'd given back all that she'd lost. She wished that only she would suffer this pain. Why those she loved most? Almost every part of her, mind, heart and soul wanted her to stay. Wanted her to remain where she belonged, but somewhere, some small ounce of resolve and obligation wouldn't let her rest, and she knew that no matter how much it hurt, turning down this duty would haunt her forever and that was worse. Kevin could see the internal battle that waged, and he pulled her close against him. "Phoebe, I…I know this is hard for you, but I need you to know that you are everything to me. Nothing, not anyone compares to you. And…and if I lost you…I don't know what I'd do." Phoebe rested her head against his chest, and closed her eyes as the strong, rhythmic beating of his heart calmed her turmoil emotions, a heart that carried so much love for her, and because of that, just as much pain. "Kevin…I love you with all my heart. But, I need to do this. I don't want to, but I need to." He gently pushed her away so that their eyes could meet. No words were needed. Their eyes said it all, and silently, his lips brushed against her lips. They locked in a passionate kiss, and slowly rolled back onto the bed.
******
Hours later, the two people, lay awake, cuddled close to each other, tangled between the sheets, enjoying what could be their final moments together. Phoebe raised her head slightly from Kevin's bare chest to look at his face. "Let's watch the sunrise," he asked softly. I know where there's a great view," she whispered quietly. He pulled on a jeans and shirt over his boxers, as Phoebe slipped on some clothes as well. Kevin wrapped his arms around his wife as he felt the gentle rush of air and then the smell of salty sea air. Sure enough, Phoebe had teleported them to an amazing spot at Ocean Cliff. Huddled together, they gazed out to sea as the first rays of the sun began to cast its light over the waves. They watched in silence as the darkness gave way to light in the beautiful morning, but to them both, a heavy darkness hung over their hearts. This could be their very last moment together and neither wanted it to end. Finally, Phoebe dared to break the silence. "Its over," she said softly, but Kevin made no move or response to show that he had heard. She spun round in his embrace to face him, and saw for the first time, that his eyes shone with tears. "You're crying," she stated softly. He shook his head, forcing a smile. "No, I'm not. I don't do tears," he told her. "Sometimes tears help lift the weight in here that brings you down," she whispered, placing her head over his heart. "Its time to be with your sisters," he said, his voice thick with emotion, as he kissed the top of her head. Phoebe nodded, as she closed her eyes, and teleported them back to Haliwell manor.
Several hours later, it was time for Phoebe to leave. The only things she took with her were her journal, a pen and family photo taken on the day she and Kevin returned from their honeymoon. It was a picture of her, Prue, Piper, Kevin, Bane and Leo. These items were safely tucked away in the inside pocket of her jacket, and she told no one about them.
She hugged Leo and Bane first, requesting each of them to look out for her respective sisters. They vowed to do so, and wished her a safe return. "Don't let Piper shut down and stop living," she told Leo, and she said the same for Bane about Prue. She turned to her sisters, and she felt the tears she had tried so hard to contain, come gushing out. "Remember what I told you. We live forever in the hearts of those we leave behind. Believe in that, and one day, I promise you, I'll do anything and everything to come back." "Oh Phoebe." The three sisters embraced, Prue and Piper holding Phoebe in a near death grip, as if it would prevent her from leaving. "I love you, Piper. I love you, Prue. Always and forever," she whispered. "I love you too," Prue said, putting her hand against her sister's cheek. Phoebe turned to Piper, who cupped her chin, and did the same. Phoebe stepped back, taking in and memorizing every tiny detail, making sure it was embedded in her mind. "Promise me, that you'll continue to live. You have a life to live. A life to enjoy. Promise me you won't throw it away because of me." All Prue and Piper could do was nod tearfully, holding in the lump in their throat. Phoebe turned to Kevin. "I don't want to say good bye again," she said. "Then don't. Phoebe please. I'll do anything. I can't live without you," he said, struggling to speak. Phoebe's hand went to his cheek, and he nuzzled it gently. She felt his warm tears wet her hand and she looked at his eyes. "You said you don't cry." "I've never had to. It never felt so heavy here," he said, placing his hand over his heart. Phoebe placed hers on top of his, and leaned closer. Their lips pressed together in a soft kiss that announced the passion they shared. Their tears mingled together and Phoebe could taste the salt as it entered her mouth. She felt herself fade, and reluctantly broke the kiss, stepping away, as she felt a bright light engulf her, as she caught on final glimpse of the most important people in her life.