Disc: I don’t own anyone except for the character, Hope


A/N: Ok this is HUGE A/U. Paige lives with the sisters and this a story about how Phoebe feels completely left out because everyone pays attention to Paige. Ok just read on and you'll get it.
Music Note: All songs by Michelle Branch

Prue-18
Piper-16
Phoebe-13
Paige-11


Phoebe Halliwell sat in her room just sulking. Ever since her half-sister, Paige came to live with them, no one seems to notice she's alive. Paige was perfect. She had perfect grades, perfect behavior, perfect EVERYTHING. She had everything Phoebe wanted. Paige had Gram's pride, Piper's friendship, and Prue's love. Phoebe couldn’t help being envious towards her little sister. I mean who wouldn’t be? She had everything and Phoebe had nothing. Everyone always expected Phoebe to fail and it hurts Phoebe so much. She spends most of, if not all, her time in her room playing on her guitar. She recently got into it. She was joining her school talent show but she was sure no one would be there because it falls on the same night Paige's art work will presented in the Art Festival.
She picked up her guitar and started strumming a sad song she wrote for her talent show.



One less call to answer,
feeling full of despair,
don't think I can get through it,
just one last prayer.

And it's a leap of faith,
when you believe there's someone out there,
it's a leap of faith when you believe that someone cares
and when I call out to you,
will you be right there

Searching for the answer,
nobody seems to care,
Oh how I wish that you were here,
beside me
to wipe away my tears.

And it's a leap of faith,
when you believe there's someone out there,
it's a leap of faith when you believe that someone cares
and when I call out to you,
will you be right there

Waiting for the answer,
remembering times we would share,
somehow I feel you here beside me,
even though your not there.

And it's a leap of faith,
when you believe there's someone out there,
it's a leap of faith when you believe that someone cares
and when I call out to you,
will you be right there

Right there
And I'll be waiting by the window for your smile to come through
and I'll be waiting in the darkness when I call out to you,
and I'll remember when you told me,
I could trust in you

It's a leap of faith,
and I believe that you are out there,
it's a leap of faith and I believe you truly care
and when I call out to you,
I know you'll be right there,
right there
and it's a leap of faith.

Phoebe put her guitar down and wiped away a tear. She looked at the picture of her and her sisters on her dresser. She wished that they would at least acknowledge her prescence. Piper occasionally talks to her but it's really Prue who completely ignores her. Paige seemed to fulfill what Prue wanted in a little sister. Phoebe sighed and laid back on her bed. She was about to close her eyes when Piper called her name.

"Phoebe! Dinner's ready!"

Phoebe reluctantly got up and made her way downstairs. She was greeted by the sound of laughter from her sisters.

I don't even think they even noticed I've entered the room, she thought.

Prue was playing with Paige, teasing her because she was short and couldnt reach the plate Prue had over her head.

"Prue! Come on gimme the plate, I'm hungry!" Paige reached for the plate only to have Prue put it higher.

"Ok Ok you're so cute when you want something." Prue handed Paige the plate and ruffled her hair. Phoebe watched this with intense jealously. She sat in her usual seat away from Prue but next to Paige. Prue was on the other side of Paige.

Piper set the food on the table as Grams walked in through the back door. "Hmm smells good Piper, can't wait to eat." She took her seat at the head of the table.

"Thanks Grams," she said with gratitude. Piper took her seat and let her family serve themselves first. Of course, Phoebe was last. She rarely spoke now and she wondered if anyone noticed that. She's been quiet lately, only speaking when she was talked to.

She started eating as Grams started a conversation. "So girls, how was school?"

"It was fine," Prue commented. "Then again, I'm a senior so it's always fine. I don't need to worry about anything since I'm already accepted to a college and all my social dates are filled." She said with a smile.

"What about you, Piper?"

"Eh, it was ok."

"Ok? What? What happened? Did those jerks tease you again?" Prue asked getting into protective mode.

"No its nothing like that. It's just I got a C on my test and I could have gotten an A."

"Oh sweetie it's just one grade. You'll be fine."

"How about you Paige?"

Paige smiled when it was her turn to speak. "I got another A on my math test." Immediatly, Paige was praised by everybody as Phoebe rolled her eyes. She heard Prue praise her the most saying things like, 'Oh I'm so proud' or 'You're so smart my little angel.' Phoebe waited until Grams asked her how was her day was but she knew Grams would ask it as if it were the end the world.

"And Phoebe, how about you?" she said with no emotion.

Phoebe felt 4 pairs of eyes on her as she looked up from her food. The coldest were those of Prue. She was waiting for Prue to say something snide. "It was fine." She said barely audible.

"How do you think you did on your test?" Ever since Phoebe's been getting bad grades in school, her teachers sent her Grams letters of when tests are going to be so she could keep track of Phoebe.

The truth was, Phoebe been doing excellent in school. but nobody seemed to notice. She had been working extra hard just so somebody could be proud of her.

"I think I did fine."

"Psh! Yeah right! You probably got another F and if you're lucky maybe a D! Honestly Phoebe, do you think you can at least get a B-?"

Prue's words hit Phoebe like a million needles through her heart.

Why can't you just love me the way you love Paige?

When dinner was over, everyone went their own way. Prue and Paige went into the family room about to watch a movie. Piper cleaned the table, Grams went to the attic, and Phoebe went to her room.

Phoebe opened her door and noticed the mess her room was in. All her school books were scattered everywhere. Even though it was the weekend, Phoebe insisted on studying so she can get her GPA up to a 3.0. Prue thought it was impossible but she wanted to prove her wrong. She picked up her math book and started doing some extra work her teacher had given her. Her teacher thought it was odd that a student would ask for extra work especially Phoebe. She was about to do a problem when she heard a knock on her door.

"Who is it?" Phoebe asked quietly.

"It's me, Piper. Can I come in?"

Phoebe got up and opened her door. "Hey."

"Hey." Phoebe moved out of the way so Piper could come in. "So whatcha doin'?"

"Just some schoolwork." Phoebe sat back down and continued her work.

Piper sat on her bed and noticed the state Phoebe's room was in. All her schoolwork was decorating her floor and her music was on her bed. "Schoolwork? Phoebe it's Friday, and that's so not you." Phoebe remained silent and just kept on working. "Phoebe is there something you want to talk to about? Cause if there is, I'm right here."

Like you'll care, she thought. "No there's nothing wrong."

"Really? Then why have you've been quiet lately. I've known you all your life and that mouth of yours never closes. And I've also noticed that you spend all of your time in your room completely shutting the world out. And now you're doing homework on the weekend. So I'll ask again, what's wrong?"

Phoebe stayed quiet when she finally found her voice. "I didnt know you cared." She put her work down and sighed.

"Why wouldnt I care? Phoebe I love you, of course I care. Please tell me."

Phoebe turned around and looked at Piper. "You wanna know? Why do you guys hate me?" Piper was stunned by Phoebe's words. Before she got to say anything Phoebe continued. "Ever since Paige came to live with us, everyone thinks I'm the problem child. Everyone always expects me to fail or screw up. I mean I'm sorry if I can't be Paige!" Phoebe started pacing the room. "I know I'm not perfect but I try. I've been trying but everyone always sees the bad side. Especially Prue. I know she hates me the most. She'd rather Paige be her sister than me."

"Phoebe! Paige IS our sister!" Piper said angrily.

"See everything I do isnt right. Right now you probably think I'm selfish for being so jealous of Paige. Well you know what? I am!! Why wouldnt I be. You guys dont even know I'm alive!" At this point Phoebe had tears going down her cheeck. She's held that in for so long.

Piper was stunned. She never meant for Phoebe to feel that way. She stood up and tried to hug Phoebe only to have her pull away.

"No Piper, you can't make the pain go away." Piper's heart broke.

"Phoebe, I'm so sorry. I guess I was being stupid. Paige just came to live with us and I wanted her to feel a part of the family, I never meant for you to feel like you didnt belong." Piper reached out to Phoebe again but this time she accepted. Phoebe practically melted in her arms as she cried. "Shh, I'm so sorry baby." Phoebe just nodded her head. After Piper got her to calm down she decided to talk about it.

"Phoebe, do you want me to talk to Prue?"

"No!" She said immediately. "I mean she wouldnt care. She already made that point across me." Phoebe wiped her face.

"Ok, but Phoebe if I you ever need to talk. I'm always right here ok?" Piper looked into Phoebe's eyes making sure she understood that.

"Ok." Piper noticed all of Phoebe's music lying around and realize that she didnt even know Phoebe had a musical talent.

"You wrote all these songs?" She picked one up but Phoebe took it from her.

"Yeah, it's for my talent show." She gathered all her music and put it away.

"Talent show?"

"It falls on the same day of Paige's art thing."

"Oh." Piper realized that she already promised Paige she would come to hers. "Phoebe I'm sorry I cant make it--"

"No it's ok I already knew you were going to Paige's. It's ok, don't break your promise."

"Are you sure? Cause I think Paige would understand."

"No Piper she's 11, dont break her heart. I'm sure." She said firmly.

"Phoebe nobody's gonna be there."

"I know...I've already accpeted that."

Phoebe stared at her wall wondering what possessd her to pick out that wallpaper. Phoebe chuckled despite of herself. She felt good that she finally told Piper how she felt. She decided she wanted to talk to her.

On her way to Piper's room she heard a conversation in Prue's room.

"I'm telling you Prue, she told me."

"Yeah right Piper, what are you? Blind?" Phoebe wanted to find out what they were talking about so she stood outside her door.

"What do you mean I'm blind?"

"Phoebe's just trying to make you feel sorry for her. Come on Piper, you know she's just jealous of Paige." Prue sat on her bed as she waited for Piper to respond.

"Well maybe you're right she was being all dramatic." Phoebe was taken back. How could Piper not believe her. Nobody cares.

"Of course I'm right. Phoebe doing extra work? She was probably just saying that so it looks like she's making an effort in school. And the whole thing about being quiet, she just wants attention. She just cant accept the fact that she isnt the baby anymore."

"Come to think of it, it all makes sense now." Phoebe let the tears slip as she walked away from the door. She went downstairs, left a note saying she went for a bike ride, and left.

Phoebe let the wind caress her face as it wiped away her tears. She didnt know where she was going, she just wanted to get out. She finally found herself at the cementary. She parked her bike by a tree and picked up a few flowers growing by the grass and made her way to her destination.

She laid the flowers by the stone as she etched the letters with her fingers.

Patricia Hope Halliwell
Beloved Mother and Daughter

"Hey mommy," Phoebe began. "So I got a B on my math test but nobody knows about it." She sniffed and felt the new tears coming. "Why dont they love me? I try, I try so hard but it never seems to be enough. They all love Paige. I love her too mom but they dont seem to care if I'm there or not. Should I run away? Would they even care if I leave?"

The wind swept and blew away the flowers. Was that a sign? Phoebe looked up at the sky and saw the clouds rolling in. It was going to rain soon. She picked herself up and kissed the stone. "I'll be back later." Phoebe made her way to her bike as it started to pour. "Great, now I'm gonna get a cold. Smart move Phoebs." She pedaled her way home awaiting the lecture she'll get from Prue.

She put her bike in the driveway as she made her way to the front steps. She took a deep breath and opened the door. She was soaked to the bone because she didnt bring a coat. She tried to make it to her room but was stopped by Prue.

"Are you aware you are dripping everywhere?"

She doesnt even care that I could be sick. "Yes, I'm aware of that." She said a little too bravely.

"Dont get smart with me because Lord knows that will never happen. Go upstairs and get cleaned up for dinner." Phoebe didnt argue and made her way upstairs, making squishy noises from her wet socks. "And dont get the carpet wet."

"I love you, too." Phoebe said sarcastically under her breath.

"What was that?"

"Nothing."

Phoebe got changed out of her wet clothes. She looked at herself in the mirror and was disgusted with herself. "Stop feeling sorry for yourself, you weakling. You'll show them one day." Phoebe turned around and grabbed the picture of her and her sisters. She threw it to the ground and watched the frame crack. She sank to the floor and touched the frame where the crack was. She cut herself and watched her blood drop on the picture.

"You don't know what you got until it's gone."

I'm not just gonna stand around,
Waiting for my lips to be read,
falling through the cracks in the ground,
my feelings need to be said.

Phoebe went downstairs to eat dinner. She made a promise that she wouldnt feel sorry for herself and started acting herself again. She went to the kitchen as her family got situated.

"So Piper, what's for dinner?" Paige asked.

"Chicken with mushrooms." Piper set the food on the table as everyone was anticipating to dig in. Phoebe was the first one to grab the serving spoon.

"Phoebe, you could at least get let others come before you." Prue commented.

"Oh I'm sorry Prue, I thought it was first come first serve." She looked at Prue satisfied that she stood up for herself and not let Prue step on her like she usually did.

Prue gave Phoebe an evil glare but brushed it off as Paige was tapping her on the shoulder. "Prue, Prue!" Prue looked down at Paige.

"What sweetie?"

"Can I have the spoon now?" Prue didnt realize that she was holding the other spoon.

"Oh I'm sorry." She handed Paige the spoon as she watched Phoebe. What is up with her?

Phoebe was seething inside. She was so angry at her family for ignoring her and all her feelings were cooped up inside. She thought she was going to explode any second. To top it all, Paige made another reminder about her art thing that fell on her talent show. She didnt get it. Paige's art would be displayed all weekend and Phoebe's talent show is ONE night. She had practiced so hard for that show with all the music she wrote and made all by herself and nobody was going to see it. Probably her friends but family meant more. Phoebe took a deep breath trying to control herself from strangling Paige after the 10th reminder.

"Don't forget. It's next Friday. They'll have it up all weekend long."

"Of course we wont forget. We wouldnt miss it for the world." Prue assured her.

"I wont be there." Phoebe accidently blurted out. She felt the stares of her family on her.

"Excuse me? We already agreed that we would all go." Grams stated.

"No, you agreed to that. I never did." She shot back.

Grams was about to scold her when Prue interupted. "What do you expect Grams, Phoebe's being selfish like she usually is. She's going to miss her sister's big break. How can anybody be more selfish than that? Just what exactly are you gonna do next Friday?"

"Well, I had prior engagements before Paige even painted that piece of shit! And I never said I wasnt going to see it. I just said I wont be there Friday!!" Piper remained silent for she knew why Phoebe wouldnt be there.

"Ok that's it go to your room!" Grams yelled.

"No problem!!!" Phoebe violently pushed her chair back and stomped up her room. She was immediately followed by Prue who was pissed beyond words. Before Phoebe could open the door to her room, Prue grabbed her by the arm and spun her around.

"What the fuck is your problem?!?! Paige is almost in tears down there. Dont you care about her feelings?!?!"

"Why should I care?!?!?" Phoebe spat. "You guys dont care about mine!"

"What?!" Phoebe tried to break free from Prue's hold but she was holding too tight.

"Let me go!" Phoebe was thrashing uncontrollaby.

"No! Not until you tell me what the hell's the matter with you and you apologize to everyone downstairs!" Phoebe finally got loose and quickly got to her room and locked her door.

"Dammit Phoebe open the door!!" Prue started pounding on her door.

Phoebe had tears down her cheeks as she never felt so much anger. "No! I hate you!!" She started throwing everything around her room. She threw her books, her pillows, everything on her desk, and the picture of the three of them that already had a crack. This time it shattered.
"I HATE YOU!!" Then all was silent.

Prue heard all the commotion that went inside Phoebe's room. Then she the heard glass shatter. That scared her but when she heard the silence that followed, she was terrified. What did Phoebe do to herself?

"Phoebe! Dammit open the door!!" Prue practically screamed. "Ok that's it." Prue pushed the door open knowing that the house was very old and the locks were weak. When she got in, she found the room in total chaos. All of Phoebe's things were on the floor or turned over. She found Phoebe in the center of the room giving her an ice glare. "What the hell do you think you're doing? You scared the shit out of me!"

"Get out of my room." Phoebe said calmly but coldy not taking her eyes off of Prue.

"No. I'm not leaving until you tell me what the hell's wrong with you." She stepped towards Phoebe.

"Get out of my room!" This time she yelled and pushed towards Prue trying to push out of her room. Phoebe, being small and weak, was easily handled by Prue. Prue lifted her up and brought her to her bed. As this point, Phoebe was violently kicking and screaming. Prue practically threw her to her bed and pinned her down so she wouldnt get hurt. Prue pinned her arms down so she couldnt hit her. "Let me go!"

Prue grabbed her face so she would look at her but not hard enough to hurt her. "Ok I dont know what your problem is, but this behavior of yours is going to stop. You are grounded and that 'prior engagement' that you were going to, you're not."

"But-"

"NO! You will be going to Paige's art festival. Now you are going to stay up here until you learn self-control because I will not tolerate this kind of behavior!" Prue finally let go of Phoebe and headed for the door. "And clean this room up!" With that she slammed the door behind her.

Phoebe mentally kicked herself for losing control. She just killed her chance to go to her talent show. Now she has no choice. All that hard work was for nothing. She let a tear slip but realize it was useless to cry because it never did her any justice. Phoebe collected herself and started cleaning her room. She couldnt believe she exploded. I guess all those vent up feelings finally got the best of me, she thought. She cleaned her room in a hour and picked the remains of the picture frame and threw it away. She looked at the picture itself and realize that it will never be that way. She ripped the picture in a million pieces and chucked it in the trash. She fell on her bed staring up at the ceiling. "Life sucks." She declared. She was about to go to sleep when she heard a soft knock.

"Phoebe? It's me, Piper." Phoebe trudged to her door and opened it.

"Well if it isnt Brutus himself," She muttered.

"Excuse me?" Piper asked confused.

"Nothing. What do you want?" She said with no emotion.

"Um, I thought you would be a little hungry after the, um well here." She handed her a plate with a piece of pie. Phoebe took it and put it on her dresser.

"Thanks."

"So Prue told me what happened."

"Yeah, did she tell you what a big bitch she was." Phoebe made her way to her bed.

"Phoebe, can you blame her? The way you acted-"

"Can you blame her? What about me? Why should I be the bad guy when you guys can give a shit about me. So I'm sorry for telling you how I felt after all this time holding it in."

"Phoebe I didnt mean-"

"No Piper. Not this time. Just leave." Phoebe looked down because she couldnt stand looking at Piper. Piper sighed and left. Phoebe took her guitar out and started playing. Music always made her feel better. She started strumming the song she was going to play for her talent show. "One less call to answer, feeling full of despair. Don't think I can get through it, just one last prayer. And it's a leap of faith when you believe there's someone out there. It's a leap of faith when you believe someone cares. And when I call out to you, will you be right there?" Her voice cracked when she hit the high the notes. She chuckled because she sounded funny. She realized that was the first time she laughed in a long time. She changed the song to a more upbeat, happy song she wrote. "So I'm a little left of center. I'm a little out of tune. Some say I'm paranormal, so I just bend their spoon. Who wants to be ordinary in a crazy mixed up world? I don't care what they're saying as long as I'm your girl." Phoebe heard footsteps aproaching her bedroom and she quickly pretended she was asleep. She heard her door open and she immediately knew it was Grams checking on her because Prue would never check on her. When she heard the door close, she breathed a sigh of relief.

"Tomorrow is going to be interesting."



***


Phoebe woke up to the sound of Prue nagging her to wake. up

"Get up! We're going to the mall to shop for Paige." She opened her eyes just as Prue exited her room. She rubbed her eyes and got out of bed. She stretched and yawned and headed for the bathroom. She passed Grams, who was giving her a stern look. It was like she was warning her not to do anything stupid today. After everyone got ready, they all assembled in the car except for Grams.

"Prudence, your Aunt Gail is sick so I'm going to stay at her place for a couple of days. Would you look out for the house and the girls?"

"Sure Grams, you don't even need to ask. Send her our love."

"Thank you. And keep a careful eye on Phoebe."

"I will don't worry." Prue headed to the car where Piper, Paige, and Phoebe were already in. "Ok guys Grams is going to Aunt Gail's for a couple of days so you're stuck with me."

"Is she gonna be here for my-"

"Don't worry Paige, it's only for a couple of days." Phoebe was silent the whole time listening to her sisters' conversation. Who's being selfish now? She thought. They headed for the mall chit-chatting, but leaving Phoebe out of the conversation.

When they got there, Prue made Phoebe not go anywhere with Paige or Piper. "You are going to stay here until we're done. You understand me?" She said with firmness. Phoebe just nodded. "Good." Prue was about to leave when Phoebe spoke.

"Can I go into the instrument shop?" She asked timidly. Prue turned around and looked at Phoebe who seemed almost scared.

"Fine. But you stay there until I get you. Don't wander off." Phoebe nodded once more and headed for the store. Prue made sure she went into the store and left with Piper and Paige.

Phoebe looked at the guitars and searched for her favorite one. She always wanted a blue Taylor 614 ce, but she had to settle for a garage sale vintage one. She looked at the guitar and admired it's beauty. She looked at the price and realized that she couldnt make that much in a lifetime. $3,398. "Damn." She thought. A young, blonde girl, about Prue's age, was watching her. It looked like she worked there.

"May I help you?" She asked.

Phoebe turned around and immediately jumped to conclusions. "Don't worry I won't touch it." She said defensively.

"Oh no, it's just not a lot of people have an eye for this guitar."

"Are you kidding me? A Taylor 614 ce, I would do anything for one of these." Phoebe continued to look at the guitar.

"Wow! You sure know your guitars. How old are you?" The girl seemed interested in this young girl who knew what exactly the guitar was.

"13. I love guitars. I've just learned how to play it a couple of months ago." She said with pride.

"I started playing when I was 13 too." She smiled at Phoebe and Phoebe returned it. She liked this girl.

"I'm Hope." She held out her hand. Phoebe took it and shook it.

"I'm Phoebe."

"Well Phoebe, you wanna try it?"

"Are you kidding me?! Um, I mean I dont think I should. I might break it."

"No No, here." She took it off the stand and put it on Phoebe. "How does that feel?"

"Like $3,398." Hope laughed. Phoebe started strumming the guitar and the sound filled her hears. "Wow. That was so cool."

“Well if you come here often, maybe we can write a song together.” Hope suggested. A smile came across Phoebe’s face but quickly dissappeared. “What’s wrong?”

“Um, I’m grounded this is like a one time thing. Plus my family hates me so they wouldn’t take me if I asked.”

Hope felt sympathy for Phoebe because she knew what Phoebe meant. It looked like she was the kind of person who doesn’t get any attention at home that’s why she was all alone. “I don’t think your family hates you.”

“You havent met my family. I have 3 sisters, 2 older 1 younger. They all love my younger sister and they don’t really give a care about me. My oldest told me to stay here cause I wasn’t aloud to go with them. We got into a fight and I suddenly became the bad guy-“ Phoebe stopped short when she realized that she was ranting to a complete stranger. “I’m sorry I was just airing out my dirty laundry. You must think I’m crazy.”

“No I don’t. I would love a little sister. I’m an only chid.”

“Well you can have my little sister, I’m sure you’ll love her. Everyone else does.” Phoebe started fiddling with the guitar.

“No, I think I’ll like you as my little sister. We already have so much in common. First of all, our great taste in instruments.” She laughed and Phoebe joined her. Phoebe made a quick friend and soon they were talking about everything. They seemed like they knew esach other forever.

Phoebe told her about all her problems with her sisters and she completely understood. She was the one person that actually about her and her feelings. They talked for what seemed forever but only and hour. Prue came back to pick her up when she stopped dead in her tracks when she saw Phoebe laughing with some girl. It seemed like they were sisters because they were doing all these cute sister giggles. Then a feeling came across Prue that she thought she never feel, especially towards Phoebe. The feeling of jealously.

Prue made her way to Phoebe as she heard her and that girl talk about something like Billy and Sally Mae.

"Oh my God, I'm so in love with him."

"Oh me too, I mean the plot was ridiculous but Billy made up for it." Prue came up to them and Phoebe immediately became silent. Hope noticed this and wondered what kind of person Prue was that Phoebe stopped talking all of the sudden.

"Hey. You ready to go?" Prue asked giving a questioning glance to Hope. Hope took the liberty to intoduce herself.

"Hi, I'm Hope. I was just keeping Phoebe company while you were shopping."

"Oh thanks. We're gonna go now." Prue led Phoebe out.

"See you kid." Hope ruffled Phoebe's her and she smiled back at her. Prue noticed this and her jealously grew. "Let's go." She lightly nudged Phoebe forward to the exit. Hope couldnt believe the way Prue acted like she was some bad person who was harassing her sister. Hello! Maybe it you werent so mean to her she would take comfort in you, Hope thought. Phoebe had told her the way Prue treated her and how she wished that Prue would love her the way she loved Paige. Hope's heart broke when she heard all the stories Phoebe told her about her relationship with her family. They talked about everything. Phoebe told her things about her life and vice versa. Hope always wanted a sister and Phoebe seemed like she was fulfilling her wish.

On the way home, Prue kept on looking at the rearview mirror watching Phoebe. Phoebe was all smiley and happy and that bothered Prue. It's not like she didnt want her sister to be happy, it was just that Phoebe had that smile that she would only give her. Come to think of it, Phoebe hasnt given Prue the smile in like 'ever. She couldnt understand why she was feeling jealous towards this Hope girl when she barely knew her. At some level she felt like Hope was stealing away her sister. Prue shook off the feeling as they entered the driveway of the Manor. Everyone got out and went their seperate ways in the house. Phoebe, of course went to her room. While Prue went to talk to Piper.

"Hey Piper, can I talk to for you a sec?"

"Sure. What's up?" They made their way to the living room making sure that Paige was in the other room trying all her new things out.

"I saw Phoebe talking to this girl at the mall and I dont know I felt kind of...jealous." Piper gave her a confused look.

"What do you mean 'jealous?'"

"I dont know. It was like they were sisters the way they were laughing and talking. I mean she never does that with me."

"That's because she's scared of you."

"What do you mean scared of me?" Prue got really confused.

"Oh come on Prue, think about it. When was the last time Phoebe actually had a conversation with you let alone laugh with you. I know I havent been there for her a lot lately and that is part of the reason she's always like this. And dont tell me you dont see it. I mean I feel like I let her down. She even called me Brutus."

"Who?"

"Brutus. You know Caesar's best friend who stabbed him in the back, literally. She feels like I've betrayed her."

"And she told you all this?"

"She doesnt have to tell me. She's my sister and I know her."

"So what are you saying? That I dont know my own sister and that I dont pay attention?" She said defensively.

"No, what I'm trying to say is that, you have another sister who needs your love and right now she's feeling very much alone. I guess Hope made her feel loved." With that Piper left to leaving Prue with her thoughts.

I'm a good sister. She told herself. Then she started to think the last time she actually hung out with Phoebe. Or talked to her. Or hugged her. Then she realized that she's been completely oblivious to Phoebe and that's why she was so mad yesterday. "I'm a horrible sister."



***


Phoebe hung out with Hope all weekend. She thought it was weird when Prue ungrounded her. Hope took Phoebe to the park and they both bought their guitars. They played their songs and they even got $15 from it. They thought it was funny because they werent playing for money.

"Jeez Phoebs, are you sure you've playing for a couple months? You play better than me and I've been playing for 5 years." Phoebe smiled at the compliment.

"Well, I'm a quick study, plus I always put great effort in things I love doing."

"Are you mad that you're gonna miss the talent show?"

"Yeah, but hey what can I do about it? Paige always gets her way." Phoebe started tuning her guitar. She hated being reminded that she couldnt go to her talent show.

"I think that's so unfair. Why dont you just tell them that you have a talent show to go to. I mean you've been practicing for like 5 weeks on that. Paige's thing is all weekend and yours in only 1 night."

"I wanna tell them, but I dont think they would care. I mean they're still gonna go to Paige's and nobody will be there."

"I'll be there. I'll be your personal cheering section." Hope smiled at Phoebe.

"I wish you were my sister." Phoebe accidently blurted out.

"Phoebe you already have a big sister, and believe or not she loves you. When she saw me with you, she got that look of jealously on her face."

"Yeah right. Why would she be jealous? She never even makes an effort to hang out with me."

"Well you know that saying 'you don't know what you got until it's gone.' She's experiencing it right now. Me hanging out with you makes her realize that you're not going be the one looking up to her anymore. She was probably used to having her little sister always being her shadow. Now she doesnt have one. Didnt you see the way she acted when I picked you up. She had this evil look on her face like she was going to kill me. She probably thinks I'm stealing you from her."

"It's her own fault. She never even dropped a hint that she cared. She was taking me for granted."

"But Phoebe dont hate her. She is still your sister and she probably has a good reason for the way she acts. She loves you even if it doesnt show." Hope gave her a reasurring smile. Phoebe hugged her and nearly knocked her over. "Oof! I love you too babe."


Prue went into Phoebe's room looking for something she thought she lost. "Why would it be in Phoebe's room?" She asked herself. Prue started searching when she came across Phoebe's schoolwork. She unconsciously looked at her grades and was very surprised when she saw many B's and A's. Phoebe even got the student of the month award. Prue smiled with pride. Then she mentally kicked herself.

I never gave her a chance and she was always trying. God I am a horrible sister. I always saw the worst in her, and now she's turning to someone else for her problems. Can't say I blame her, I wasnt much of sister to her. That's what Piper meant when she said she was scared of me. Every time I talked to her I always seem to be yelling or insulting her for doing absolutly nothing. She was right I was always paying attention to Paige that I didnt even notice Phoebe. Now it's too late. She probably hates me right now and never will forgive me. I have to make it up to her. But how?

Prue walked into the kitchen while Piper was making lunch.

"Hey is Phoebe home yet?"

"No she's still out with Hope. I hope she didnt eat yet."

"What's up with this Hope character anyways. What do we know about her? Phoebe's been hanging with her like all week." Prue took a seat as she pondered over Hope.

"Prue it's not like she's an ex-convict. As a matter of fact, she attends Mission High School, she's your age, she's majoring in music when she goes to college, she lives like 2 minutes from here, she works at the The Note at the mall, and she's a really nice girl. Phoebe is in good hands." Prue stared at her wide-eyed. "What?"

"Did you research her or something?"

"No. Phoebe told me."

"Why didnt she tell me?"

Piper rolled her eyes for she knew where this was heading to. "Prue, we're not gonna get into this conversation again are we?"

"What conversation?"

"Dont be naive, Prue." She gave her the "you know what I mean" look.

"Piper, I just cant help it ok? Phoebe is being irrational and immature. I know she's trying to make me mad-"

"Wait a minute. What the hell are you talking about? Phoebe isnt trying to do anything but be noticed. And since you're not doing a really great job, she's turning to someone else. So deal with it! It's your own fault you feel this way and it's your fault for pushing Phoebe away!" With that Piper turned off the oven and left the kitchen.

Prue was taken back by Piper's words. It was true, I was pushing her away. It wasnt entirely my fault, Piper was pushing her away too so how dare she say it's my fault. Then again, Piper had been hanging out with her recently also. It's just me who doesnt do anything to show her I care. Prue heard the sound of laughter coming from the front door. Phoebe was home. With Hope.

"Hope, you wanna stay for lunch?"

"Um, I dont know. I dont want to intrude."

"Intrude? You're my friend there's no intrusion."

"'Intrusion?' Ok." Hope started laughing. Phoebe gave her an evil look. She stopped laughing but started up again. "I'm sorry, it's just such a big word coming out of your mouth."

"Ha Ha." Hope ruffled Phoebe's hair and hugged the top of her head.

Prue walked in not looking very happy. "Hey. Where have you two been?" She gave Hope an ice glare.

"We went to the park." Hope said calmly. Why the hell does she hate me? Hope thought. I've been nothing but nice to her.

"Again?" She said coldly. "Phoebe, it's a school day. Did you do your homework?" She asked sternly.

Phoebe was about to say something when Hope interceded. "Dont talk to her like that. She did her homework at the park."

"Dont tell me how to talk to my sister. You dont know me." This time it looked like Prue was going to kill Hope.

"Ok that's it, I have been nothing but nice to you so I'm just gonna say this. You dont know your own sister." She said snidely. "Because if you did, you would know that Phoebe always puts her studies first." Phoebe stepped aside and let Hope and Prue have their little argument.

"Ok just because you dont have a little sister, doesnt mean you can steal mine."

"Maybe if you havent pushed her away, she'd be hanging out with you. Face it Prue, you dont know your own sister."

"Get the hell out of house!!"

"No problem I was just leaving." She turned for the door but stopped by Phoebe. "See you tomorrow kid." With that she left.

"Why do you have to be so mean?" That was all Phoebe said as she ran to her room.

"Phoebe! Phoebe! Great! That's a hell of a way to make up to her." Prue put her hand against her head trying to calm herself. All those things Hope said were true but there was no way she was going to admit it. I know my sister. She kept telling herself. She's not taking away my sister.

Prue made her way to Phoebe's room because she wanted to apologize to her. {Whoa! Freeze Frame! Prue wants to apologize to Phoebe} Prue stood outside Phoebe's room. Her door was open and Prue watched her as she played with her guitar, strumming random chords. She lightly knocked at the door to get Phoebe's attention. "Knock Knock."

Phoebe turned around and saw Prue. Weird, she thought. Why is Prue at my room and knocking. Usually she justs barges in here and starts yelling at me.

"Can I come in?" She asked politely.

"Sure." She put her guitar down as Prue sat on her bed across from her.

"What are you doing?"

"Just practicing."

"Practicing? Practicing for what?" She asked confused.

"Why do you care?" She blurted out. "You never did before." Usually, Prue would have yelled at Phoebe for talking to her like that but this time Prue didnt say anything.

"Ok, I just wanted to say sorry for yelling at Hope. I was out of line. The truth was I was just angry with something else and I exploded."

"Whatever, you shouldnt be apologizing to me then, you should apologize to Hope. I dont even know why you hate her. She's such a great person and she always makes me feel like I'm someone." She said the last line with emphasis so it wouldnt get passed Prue.

"Ok if it makes you happy I'll apologize to her." At this point Prue did everything she could to prevent from yelling at Phoebe. It's not her fault she's acting like this, it's mine, she kept telling herself.

"Yeah that would be fine." Was all Phoebe said. There was an uneasy silence that fell over them and Prue couldnt take it so she just left. "I love you too." Phoebe couldnt understand why Prue was always hostile towards her. She never actually questioned it until Hope told her that there must be a reason Prue acts like this.


Prue went to the mall where Hope worked and went into the instrument shop. She found Hope behind the counter helping a customer out. When Hope saw Prue she told her customer she will be with her shortly and made her way to Prue.

"What are you doing here?" Hope asked. She crossed her arms above her chest waiting for Prue's answer.

"I wanted to apologize for earlier. You were right, you have been nothing but nice to me and I was being immature. The truth is I am jealous ok. There I admitted it. I'm jealous because Phoebe isnt at home anymore because she always with you."

"Well, if you hang out with her she would be with you more."

"Dont you think I know that! I just cant, ok!"

"You cant what?" Hope led them to somewhere in the back of the store so they wouldnt cause a scene with their conversation.

"I bet Phoebe has told you that we never had good sister relationship right?"

"She might of told me once. Or twice."

"Well I screwed up that and when Paige came to live with us, she was like my second chance. Paige gave me the oppurtunity to be the sister I always wanted to be to Phoebe."

"So you completely forgot about Phoebe? Prue she's still your sister, you could have patch things up with her. You dont know how much you've hurt her."

Those words were Prue's wake up call. "I've hurt her."

"Yes, and you never seem to notice. She told me one time, that she wished that you would at least say goodnight to her at night. She told me you always used to that before Paige moved in." Prue remembered that but it seemed like a distance memory. "She told me she waited all night for you to show up at her door and say goodnight but you never came."

Prue was silent as she stared at the ground. She now realized the extent of her actions had done. "How can I make it up to her, Hope?" She almost sounded like she was pleading for help.

"Well, you can start by letting her go to her talent show."

Prue's head jerked up. "What talent show?"

"She still hasnt told you. Phoebe has a talent show this Friday that she has been working for for 5 weeks, but you're making her go to Paige's art thing."

"Phoebe. Talent show? That's what she meant by practicing. I'll let her go then."

"I dont think that's going to be enough. She actually wants you to be there. I was going to buy her her favorite guitar as a good luck gift, but I dont have enough money."

Prue's face lit up. "I help pay for it. I have to start somewhere. And tonight I'll tell she can go."

"Ok but I gotta warn you, the guitar is really expensive."

"I dont care. It's for Phoebe and I'll do anything to make it up to her." Hope smiled and so did Prue.

"Prue, I think this could be the start of a beautiful friendship." She rolled her eyes when she realized what she just said. Prue laughed at her.


Later that night, Prue made her way up to Phoebe's room. She lightly knocked on the door. "Phoebe it's me, can I come in?" Phoebe opened the door and let Prue in. Phoebe didnt say anything and made her way to her bed. Prue closed the door and started walking towards Phoebe. "I talked to Paige and she doesnt really care if you're not there on Friday. She said as long as you see it on Saturday or Sunday, she'll be fine."

"I will."

"So that 'prior engagement' you had to go to, well you can now." Prue gave Phoebe a little smile waiting for her reaction.

Phoebe's face lit up like a light bulb. "I can?"

"Yup, you can."

"Thank you." She was still kinda bummed that no one will be there but at least she was going. Prue made her way to the door but stopped as she was about to leave.

"Phoebe."

She looked up at Prue. "Yeah?"

"Goodnight."

Phoebe smiled. "Goodnight."

Phoebe immediately called Hope the next day to tell her the great news. Hope of course already knew.

"Oh my God! Prue is allowing me to go to my talent show!" She practically screamed into the phone.

"Phoebe I'm really happy for you, but I need my hearing sometime this week."

"Sorry, I'm just so excited and happy."

"I can only imagine you jumping up and down on your bed."

"How'd you know?"

"Because I can hear the springs creaking in the backround." Hope started laughing.

"I better stop before I break it."

"So Prue had a total change of heart?" Knowing full well what the story was.

"Yeah it was really weird because she told me it was ok that I wont be able to go to Paige's art thing. Then you know what else she said?"

"What?"

"She said Goodnight. That was the first time in a very long time she had said that to me. You were right Hope."

"I'm always right Phoebe. No I'm just joking. See Prue does love you so you dont need to doubt her love."

"I dont understand you. You are so nice to Prue and she treats you like crap."

"Well I believe that she only acts like that because she feels like she was losing you. She's a really good person at heart."

"What about me?"

"What about you?" Hope asked confused.

"Why do you care about me? I'm sure you have your own problems and you deal with mine. You're 18 and I'm 13. I'm sure you wanna hang out with your friends and you hang out with me. Is this like a pity friendship?" Phoebe had been so insecure because of past experience. She wanted to know if Hope only hung out with her because she felt sorry for her.

"Phoebe you know that I love you as my own sister and you dont need to be insecure. This isnt a pity friendship. This a real friendship. Dont worry, I wont hurt you."

"Ok, I love you."

"Love you too sweetie." With that they hung up. Hope picked up the phone again and dialed Prue's work number. She knew she was working at this time.

"Hello?"

"Hey it's me. Is it all set?"

"Yeah I'll send it over right now."

"Ok I'll see you then." She hung up the phone and smiled at hers and Prue's plan.



***


Friday came sooner than Phoebe anticipated. She didnt have school that day because of the talent show and she was home alone as her sisters were at school. She got really nervous when she was practicing that she almost broke a string on her guitar.

"Ok Phoebe calm down. The talent show is going to be here in like," she looked at her clock. "7 hours!" Phoebe started panicing thinking she might mess up because she decided to do another song instead of the one she was originally going to sing because that song was just to depressing. She really wished she could call Hope to ask for advice on how to perform correctly but she too, was at school. "Ok she gets out at 2:30, I'll call her then." She was still upset that no one was going to be there but at least she was going. She also knew that Hope was going because she was the one that was going to drive her there. Phoebe took a deep breath trying to calm herself. She went downstairs in search for food. She went to the fridge and saw a note on it.

Hey Phoebs,
There's food in the blue container in the fridge. Just heat it up in the microwave. Good luck tonight. Sorry I cant be there.

Love,
Piper

Phoebe smiled. Even though Piper wasnt going to be there she at least knew where she was going tonight. Phoebe heated up her food and ate away. She was going to watch some television when she realized she had no idea what to wear tonight. She ran into her room and ripped open her closet. She searched frantically for her favorire top. It was a black sleeve-less shirt with a picture of the Golden Gate Bridge on it. It was really pretty because the bridge was decorated with silver rhine stones. She put that put along with her favorite pair of pants. There she was all set. All she had to do was wait for time to go by.


When her sisters got home, she stayed in her room just practicing until her fingers hurt. She realize that she shouldnt practice so hard just incase her guitar broke because it was so old.


As the the hour approached, Phoebe's family left early for Paige's art thing and left Phoebe alone until Hope picked her up. It was 6:30 and she had to be there at 6:45. "Where is she?" She asked no one in particular. Then she saw her car and she ran outside, guitar in hand.

"Sorry I'm late Phoebe. I had something to take care of." Hope apologized.

"It's ok, you're here now. Let's go." Phoebe had a huge smile on her face as they pulled away from the driveway.

When they got to the school, Phoebe opened the door before the car even stopped.

"Whoa there, tiger. Wait till I park."

"Sorry, I'm just so excited." Hope parked the car and they both got out and made their way to the entrance.

Phoebe led the way to the auditorium when she stopped dead in her tracks. She couldnt believe her eyes. She couldnt believe who was standing there.

Phoebe looked at the person standing there. She couldnt believe it. "Prue?"

"Hey, I was told that my little sister had a talent show tonight and I just had to be here." She said with a smile.

Phoebe, still dumfounded for words, managed to get a sentence out. "What about, Paige?"

"Oh, she's here too." She said casually. "Along with Grams and Piper." Phoebe turned to look at Hope who was standing behind her.

"Didnt I tell you, Phoebe? I'm always right." Phoebe's eyes glistened with tears as she hugged both Hope and Prue.

"Thank you."

"Oh dont thank us yet." Prue pulled out a guitar case with a red ribbon on it. "This is from Hope and I." She handed the guitar case to Phoebe whose eyes were nearly out of her head. She opened it and found a blue Taylor 614 ce.

"Oh my God! A Taylor!!!" This time she jumped on both of them and squeezed as hard as she could. "I love you! I love you!"

"Ok Pheobs, we cant breathe." Phoebe let go just as Grams, Piper, and Paige came.

"Hey!" Piper greeted. She lifted Phoebe up and spun her around.

"You're here." Phoebe said still disbelieving.

"Of course I'm here silly. Where else will I be?" She kissed Phoebe on the forehead and put her down.

"Grams," Grams walked over to her.

"Hello my darling." She too hugged Phoebe.

"Thank you." Then Phoebe walked over to Paige. "What about your art thing?"

"We can go tomorrow. If I knew your talent show was tonight I would have said we could go on Saturday instead of tonight."

"Thank you."

"Hey we're sisters." Phoebe hugged her.

"I better go and get ready." Phoebe picked up her new guitar and made her way backstage.

The Halliwells and Hope took a seat near the front row. Phoebe wasnt going to be on for a long time so they had to sit through all the other acts.

While backstage, Phoebe was tuning her new guitar. She still couldnt believe they came. She admired the guitar feeling the smooth wood. She just loved the velvet lined guitar case. She looked in it when something caught her eye. It was a note. She picked it up and read it:

Hey Phoebe,
Good Luck Tonight! I just wanted to tell you that I'm sorry for everything I've done. I just wanted to let you know that I've always loved you even it never seemed like it. All those times I'd never said goodnight to you, well I did. You were always asleep when I came in. I would kiss you on the forehead and say goodnight. Phoebe you are my baby sister and it's time I treat like that. This time will be different. I love you my little angel.
Love,
Prue

P.S. I hope you liked your present. It was Hope's idea. She's a great person just like you said.

Phoebe wiped away her tears as she finished reading the note. She put it in the back pocket of her jeans so it would be with her as she performed.

"Halliwell, you're next." The director of the program said. Phoebe picked up her guitar and made her way to the stage. She waited for the announcer to announce her name.

"Up next ladies and gentlemen is Phoebe Halliwell," Phoebe heard a lot of applause coming from the front row. "Phoebe's going to sing a song that she wrote accompanied by her guitar. Let's give her a warm round of applause. Phoebe came out and stood in front of the microphone that was on the middle of the stage. She put her guitar on and stummed the first chord. Then she began singing.

When you're all alone
And you need a light
Someone to guide you
Through the night
Just remember that I am here
To hold you close and dry your tears
Just when you thought you were falling
But you know I'll always be right there.

When you're all alone
And you need a friend
Someone to help you to the end
When you need someone
To catch you when you fall
I'll be there through it all
Just when you thought you were losing
But you know I'll always be right there

And I'll be there
Through the good times and the bad
And we'll be there for each other
Cause you're the best friend
I'd ever had

Oh just when you thought you were falling
But you know I'll always be right there
Oh whenever you need me
I'll always be right there

Phoebe finished her song as a roar of applause came. She looked out at the audience and saw her family and Hope. She found Prue who was crying and smiling at the same time. She saw her mouth, "I'll always be right there." Phoebe smiled.

Somebody cares.


THE END