Expectations

Disclaimer: the Charmed Characters are the creation of Aaron Spelling and Constance Burge.. I've just borrowed them for your enjoyment

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Piper Halliwell looked out of the kitchen window she could just about see her younger sister she was sitting on the back porch step her back to the house. Even from this distance Piper could tell she was upset, she let out a deep sigh knowing before she even asked what the problem would be.

She quietly opened the kitchen door and observed her sister, her shoulders were slouched – always a bad sign, Piper sat down on the step next to her and put her arm around the young girls shoulder.

“What now?”

Phoebe looked into the eyes of her sister she was biting her lip trying not to cry.

“Prue”

“Yeah I guessed as much – what’s it about this time”

“Oh you know the usual – she accused me of being in her room and messing with her stuff”

“And where you?”

“No – course not!”

Piper raised an eyebrow “then why would she think you were?”

“I wrote my name in the dust on her dresser”

Piper laughed sometimes her sister could be so stupid!

“So what did she do?”

“Dragged me by the hair and used my face to clean it off, then smacked me really hard” Phoebe shifted her position so Piper could see the hand mark.

“Ouch!”

“I know she told me not to go in Pipe but I only went in to see if she had a pen I wasn’t messing with her stuff honest”

“Phoebe how many times have we been through this you know it winds her up – why didn’t you get one of mine”

“Didn’t think”

Piper resisted the urge to tell her she never did “in future will you try eh?”

“Yeah – but I just don’t know what the big deal is Piper – lately its just like, well”

Phoebe was faltering

“Like what?”

“Like she hates me” Phoebes voice was almost a whisper.

“Don’t be silly she doesn’t hate you, its just a phase you just wind each other up, you can be as bad”

“Only coz she’s so nasty”

Piper took a deep breath – how many times had she had this talk “It’s got to stop – one of you will end up hurting the other really bad if you’re not careful”

“Why should I care? She doesn’t”

Just as Phoebe finished the sentence Prue entered the yard.

“Little miss Whinge bag – finished moaning about me yet!” Prue glared at her youngest sister – as she passed her she smacked her hard on the arm.

“Prue! For gods sake was that necessary!” Piper kept a tight arm around Phoebe not wanting World War 3 to break out besides she knew Phoebe didn’t stand a chance after all at seventeen Prue was seven years older.

“Not really!” Prue laughed as she entered the house.

“See what I mean – she hates me!” Phoebe looked at Piper and Piper could see the hurt expression in her sister eyes.

“Forget it – come on its time for dinner lets go wash up”

“Erm – Pipe, Grams is away isn’t she?”

“Yeah why?”

“So Prue’s in charge” Phoebe sounded really down.

“Yeah she is but don’t worry I’ll protect you from the big bad Prue!”

“As if you can,” Phoebe sounded matter of fact and Piper knew there was an element of truth, although Piper was only two years younger than Prue she knew she was no match for her.

“Phoebe in here now! – Set the dam table and if I have to tell you again you’ll get smacked and sent to bed - you can forget about eating dinner!”

Phoebe jumped up and ran inside – normally she could retaliate but she knew with their Grams away it wouldn’t take much and Prue would kill her.

She set the table and sat down ready for dinner.

“Well isn’t that just typical – spoilt brat – who do you think you are waiting to be served on!”

Phoebe looked at her eldest sister she wasn’t sure what to do if she explained that Piper had told her to sit there Prue wouldn’t listen she’d just send her to her room for answering back and if she said nothing there was a good chance Prue would go off on one anyway.

“Well we’re not your slaves – and to prove it you can do the dishes”

Phoebe felt her heart sink – there was loads Piper had cooked a big roast and the dishwasher was broke.

“But Prue” the words were out before she realized

“But Prue, But Prue – Christ Phoebe do you realize how sick and tired I am of hearing your voice!” “You’re nothing but a moaning Minnie when you’ve done the dishes you can go straight to bed”

Piper had come in and heard the last of the exchange.

“Prue! Why?! What’s she done? It’s only 6.30!”

“Yeah well if she acts like a baby I’ll treat her like one – baby’s bed time”

It all got too much for Phoebe “I hate you! You can stick your dinner if that’s what you want I’ll go to my room now – anything’s better than looking at your ugly mug!”

“Right back at you” Prue’s hand shot out, she held her little sister as she slapped her hard across the legs. “And that’s for being so disrespectful”

Phoebe was running up the stairs her sisters voice following her “I’ll shout you when we’re done, don’t think for one minute you can get out of doing the dishes”

Phoebe threw herself on her bed she was determined not to cry her leg was sore from Prue’s slap she bit on her lower lip as she rubbed at Prue’s hand mark – sometimes she hated her big sister.

Piper looked across at Prue “Guess what Prue we’re done I’ve lost my appetite if you want to eat help yourself its in the oven”

“Piper”

“No Prue that was totally unnecessary you’ve been picking on her all day, you didn’t have to smack her – what’s your problem?”

“I haven’t got a problem she just needs to learn”

“Learn what? To do everything your way to turn into a mini me? What?”

Prue let out a laugh “Mini me – I don’t think so! She’s nothing like me she’s a selfish. Irresponsible, spoilt brat, I wish I’d had it half as easy!”

“What! So that’s your problem you’re jealous,”

Phoebe had come down the stairs and could hear her older sisters arguing.

“Jealous of what! – I really don’t think so. You really think I’m jealous of that – apart from anything else she’s as thick as a “

“Prue! That’s enough!”

“Well! She is, anyway I’m out of here and she’d better have those dishes done by the time I get back”

“Yeah right! Any more orders?”

Prue glared at Piper and stormed out the door, Piper took a deep breath. She loved both her sisters but she really couldn’t understand why her eldest sister treated the youngest so harshly. In Pipers opinion she had it hard enough without Prue ripping into her. Their mum had died years ago – long before Phoebe could form any memories of her and their Dad had left when Phoebe was tiny until recently Prue had looked out for them both now she only ever seemed to pick on the youngest finding fault and berating her at every opportunity.

Phoebe crept back to her room – so that’s what Prue thought – she was thick – that hurt more than the slap - the tears that Phoebe had promised wouldn’t come began to stream silently down her face. Why? Why did Prue hate her so much? She knew she wasn’t the brightest but she did try and she was good at some stuff it was just that Prue refused to see; if it wasn’t math or history it was worth zero in Prue’s book.

After a little while Phoebe crept downstairs hoping to find Piper and hoping that Prue hadn’t come back.

She was in luck; Piper had done the dishes and was sat on the sofa watching TV. She switched it off when she saw Phoebe hovering in the doorway, she held her arms out. Phoebe sat on Pipers lap and snuggled in finding comfort in her sisters embrace, neither girl spoke they didn’t need to, Phoebe was just about to drift off to sleep when she heard the front door shut, she jumped knowing that once again she would be in the firing line.

“Bed now!” Prue’s voice was harsh as she glared at her youngest sister

Prue had obviously forgotten that she’d banished her to her room earlier Phoebe didn’t want to hang around long enough for her to remember; she pulled Piper to her and kissed her “Night Pipe, I love you”

“Night honey I love you too”

Prue let out a snort “Oh stop! I feel sick! It’s just like the Walton’s!”

Phoebe glared at Prue “Don’t worry I won’t kiss you”

Prue smirked, “As if I’d want you too”

Piper noticed the hurt expression cross Phoebes face, Piper pulled her close, she kissed her cheek and gave her a squeeze “Night baby, don’t start just go to bed eh” Piper held her breath hoping that Phoebe would take her advice she knew that if she didn’t it would end in tears – and they wouldn’t be Prue’s.

Phoebe nodded and made her way back to her room.

“Did you have to?” Piper was furious “She was going to bed you got what you wanted why do you always have to hurt her?”

Prue shrugged.

“Prue! – Sometimes I really don’t understand you, have you ever stopped and thought about what your doing to her? She’s a little girl Prue she needs love and comfort not constant abuse. It’s cruel – you’re cruel”

“Yeah!!! Yeah!! - Night Piper, I love you” Prue’s voice was mocking as she headed to the stairs.

Prue threw her bag into the far corner of her bedroom; she let out a groan as she stretched her arms and loosened her neck. It had been a long day, she’d been up since 6 to finish off her homework, she’d gone to school, had a ruck with her sisters, worked at the diner and her day was far from over, she took out her books and set to work she hadn’t got very far when her phone rang.

“Hey Prue! How you doing? Missed you tonight babe”

Prue grinned, it was her boyfriend.

“Right back at you”

“So how’s it going? Did you fix it for tomorrow?”

“Not really, I’m sorry Andy; it’s all just a bit manic lately. I can’t get off work until 7.30 the earliest” Prue chewed on her lip waiting for the reaction; she knew he wouldn’t be pleased.

“Dam it Prue! You promised”

“Yeah Andy I know, it’s just not that easy, I’ve got to work tomorrow night straight from school, then I need to get back, Pipers taking some extra classes it can’t be helped”

“It’s everyone and everything else with you isn’t it Prue! You never think about me, us”

Prue ran her hand through her hair, “Andy, you know I have a lot on and that’s not true I do think about you”

“When?” Andy sounded really pissed “In between, school, work, study, your sisters?”

“Look how about you come over tomorrow night” Prue paused she could really do without it her finals were coming up and time was precious “Say 8ish, give me time to get rid of Phoebe?”

“No! For god’s sake Prue we never do anything anymore, we never go out, when I do see you you’re tired. If you think anything of our relationship you’ll come to the party with me tomorrow. You make me look like a right dork; I might as well not have a girl for all the times you come out with me”

Prue sucked her breath in; she was too tired to argue “Fine!”

“So, you’ll come?” Andy’s tone had completely changed

“Sure why not?”

“If I pick you up from work we could grab a bite then go straight to the party”

Prue hesitated slightly, it would mean leaving Phoebe.

“Prue?”

“Ok, but I can’t be late; I’ll have to get back”

Andy let out a frustrated sigh “Dam it Prue! They’re not your kids, they’re not your responsibility, just have fun for once in you life!”

“If Grams was here….”

Andy cut in “It would be just the same! I’ll see you tomorrow Prue”

Prue let out a sigh “Yeah, fine, night”

“Night”

Prue rubbed at her face, it was later than she’d thought picking up a book she threw it across the room giving vent to her frustration.

+++++++++++++++++++

Phoebe sat quietly at the breakfast table, Prue was in a foul mood she knew one wrong word and she’d cop it, she watched as her oldest sister picked up some papers and stuffed them into her school bag.

“Piper, I’ll be late tonight you’ll need to fix dinner for you and Phoebe”

“I’m at my class”

“Tough, I won’t be here”

“Prue! You know this is important!”

“Stop whining!” Prue glared at her younger sister “Come home fix her dinner then go to your dam class!”

“What about Pheebes?”

“I’ll be back not long after”

Piper frowned she didn’t like the sound of this they never left their baby sister in the house on her own.

“Will you be alright babe? Just for a little bit till Prue gets back?”

“Too bad if she’s not, not a lot of choice unless you want to miss your class”

Phoebe chewed on the inside of her mouth, she felt such a nuisance.

“Pheebes?”

Phoebe looked into the soft brown eyes of the middle sister; she knew how important the class was to Piper.

“I’ll be ok; I’ll just watch TV for a bit”

Prue snorted “That’d be right! Don’t think about doing something useful!”

“Prue!” Piper glared at her older sister.

“Can it Piper!” Prue threw a few more things into her bag.

“I’ve got to go, I’m meeting Kerry, I’ll see you later Phoebe, I’ll pick you up from school” Piper was already half way out of the door.

“Shift it” Prue threw the breakfast dishes into the sink “And wash those when you get in”

Phoebe picked up her school bag “Erm Prue?”

“What?!” Prue practically barked at her kid sister.

“Did Piper leave me any lunch?” Phoebe sounded quiet; her big sister was so unpredictable lately the slightest thing could set her off.

“For god’s sake! You leave it until now to ask?!” Prue grabbed hold of Phoebe by the arm and pushed her out the door “There’s no time now!” Prue sounded angry “You’re going to have to change your ways and pretty dam soon! We’re not here to wait on you and the sooner you realize the better. In future you can make your own dam lunch then you can be sure its done can’t you? Its time you took responsibility for some of the things that need doing round here”

Phoebe bit on her lip, she watched as Prue threw her own bag and then Phoebes into the back of the car, the sisters rode to school in silence, Phoebe stared out of the window, it was only 8 am and the day already sucked.

Prue drew up at Phoebe’s school, “Hurry up!”

“Sorry!” Phoebe quickly jumped out, “Bye”.

Prue looked at her kid sister and took a deep breath, pushing her hand into her jeans pocket she pulled out a couple of dollar bills “Here, just this once”

Phoebe gave her sister a slight smile “Thanks Prue, I’m sorry”

Prue hardly looked at her sister as she slammed the car into reverse and made her way to her own school.

Prue parked up and quickly made her way to her first class, her mind was whirling she had so many things to do, she began to run through her mental checklist.

“Hey Prue!...........Prue wait up!”

Prue looked towards the sound of the voice “Oh! Sorry Lori! Miles away”

“So I see! You look wiped”

“Cheers!” Prue gave her friend a sarcastic smile.

“Sorry Hun but you do”

“I’m not surprised these last few months have been really hectic and it isn’t letting up”

“Oh tell me about it! You know it was gone midnight last night before I finished my homework, they really seem to be piling it on”

Prue let out a low laugh “Try 2.30”

“What!”

“Look honey no offence but I wish all I had to worry about was homework”

Lori looked sympathetically at her friend “Sorry, I forgot, how’s it going anyway”

“Fine, I mean I get up at 6 do some schoolwork, run round the house like a mad woman, get my kid sisters up and ready for school, drop the little one off, come here for a few hours, straight to the diner, and before you say anything yes we do need the money, from there I go home, sort out any mess my sisters have either made or got in, do some housework, stick the laundry in, hit the books and before you know it I get to do it all over again!..............oh yes and some days I even squeeze in some shopping” Prue raised her eyebrows as she looked at the shocked expression on her friends face “Food of course”

“Geez Prue!”

Prue gave her friend a slight smile “So excuse me if I look a bit ‘wiped’……..”

“Prue I had no idea! I feel awful now, here’s me moaning about homework, I was only that late because I’d been out with some friends”

“Oh take no notice; I’m just a bit tired that’s all”

“No wonder!” Lori laughed “So what about Andy, where does he fit into your hectic schedule?”

Prue rolled her eyes “Don’t even ask”

“Prue?”

“Oh he’s been giving me a bit of grief lately, I think he’s feeling neglected”

Loris eyebrows shot up “Oh poor baby” she had never been that keen on Prue’s boyfriend she thought him to be self-centered and selfish.

“He does have a point, I mean we hardly go out, when we do I’m tired, you know I’m not exactly in the mood, then I usually have to get back, I can’t leave the girls to late, and well Pipers got a life too, its just….” Prue took a deep breath and let out a huge sigh.

“So? Andy helps how?”

Prue shrugged her shoulders “It’s just, well sometimes he can be so kind and thoughtful………….he’s my escape”

Lori shook her head, “He could help couldn’t he? Sounds like he’s not giving you much space”

Prue laughed at the concerned expression on her friends face “I don’t have space!”

“It just sounds a bit much Prue; I mean you need to do stuff for yourself as well you know?”

“I am, I’m going to Jodie’s party tonight”

“Great news! Its ages since you’ve been out with the gang”

“Andy’s idea”

Loris eyebrows hiked up, she could see the look of resignation on her friends face.

“Don’t you want to go?”

“Of course I do, it’s just hard to explain, I’ve got so much buzzing round my head at the moment, so much to do it’s hard to switch off. I know before I even get there I won’t relax, I’ll be thinking about all the text books piled up on my desk, or worrying that the girls are alright and that there’s enough food in and they’ve got clean clothes, or that Phoebe hasn’t pulled any stunts that I need to sort out” Prue paused “It’s just a lot, and I know what you think about Andy but he does have a lot to put up with, I mean” Prue lowered her voice “I’m not really in the mood for you know, and well I know he gets annoyed but I can’t blame him, he just thinks I put everything before him and to some degree he’s right”

“What so now we’re supposed to feel sorry for Andy because he doesn’t get his rocks off?” Lori sounded incredulous.

“No! Oh forget it! Forget I said anything!” Prue sounded annoyed she had enough on her plate without one of her closest friends finding fault with her boyfriend.

“Prue! Look I’m sorry” Lori could see Prue was on a short fuse “I’m just worried that’s all”

Prue took a deep breath “No, its ok……look I’ll see you at Jodie’s alright?”

“Yeah see you later” Lori watched as Prue rushed to her next lesson she couldn’t help but worry about her friend, she looked totally stressed.

++++++++++++++++++

Little Phoebe Halliwells day wasn’t much better than her sisters, she couldn’t concentrate her thoughts kept drifting to her oldest sister, she couldn’t understand why she was so mad at her all the time. Phoebe knew she was an extra burden on her big sisters already overloaded shoulders, but lately Prue was totally irrational. Phoebe was snapped out of her daydream by the annoyed voice of her teacher. – Dam! Dam! Dam! Dam! Dam! She hadn’t even heard the question!

Phoebe closed her eyes, she didn’t care what happened to her as long as Prue wasn’t called in, if she had to take another note home she’d be dead. This was the third time that day that Phoebe had been caught not paying attention; she knew she was skating on thin ice.

Phoebe felt herself blush as she stood up; all eyes were focused on her, as she made her way to the corner. Her embarrassment complete when the teacher told her to put her hands on her head. She felt like she was five years old! Phoebe took a deep breath and did as she’d been told, anything was better than a note to Prue! Phoebe hated to admit it but lately her big sister terrified the life out of her.

It was with some relief when the final bell rang signaling the end of the school day, Phoebe made her way outside to wait for her sister.

“Hey Pheebes! You look happy” Piper grinned at her kid sister, her shoulders were slumped she looked like she had the worries of the world.

“I am now” Phoebe grinned back, she loved Piper to bits she also knew Prue wouldn’t be home for a little while, dinner would be just the two of them.

“Hard day?”

“Mmmm”

“Pheebes?” Piper knelt down so she was level with her sister “What happened?”

“Nothing, erm….I had to stand in the corner for a bit that’s all”

Piper’s smile left her face “Why? What did you do?”

“Nothing”

Piper hiked her eyebrows up “See there’s that word again”

“I didn’t hear the teacher that’s all”

Piper groaned “Is there a note?”

Phoebe shook her head “No”

“You sure, because if there is and Prue finds out you didn’t tell her….” Piper left the sentence half finished.

Phoebe looked upset “No, Piper there isn’t honest, I didn’t get one”

“Ok, calm down, so what were you dreaming about?” Piper knew her little sister well her capacity to concentrate was limited she got bored easily and she’s drift off into her own little world.

“Prue”

“Come on” Piper held her hand out “You can tell me on the way”

“Pipe I’ve been thinking about why she might hate me”

Piper held her breath “Do you think it’s about Dad?”

“What?” Piper didn’t know how to react she wasn’t expecting this one.

“Dad, you know, do you think she blames me for him going?”

“No why would she”

“Someone in school said it was my fault that he left that he was happy till I came along and then he looked at my ugly face and ran away”

Piper was stunned “First of all you were the cutest baby ever, and secondly you can’t be held responsible for other people’s actions so get that out of you head straight away. Not even Prue would hold you responsible for Dad.”

Phoebe smiled “Cutest eh?”

“Yeah and I’m only a little bit biased – me and Prue had a huge fight when you were born as young as I was I can still remember”

“Why?”

“I said you should be my baby coz she had me”

“And?”

“Prue disagreed – she said we we’re both her babies”

Phoebe looked sad, Piper looked at her trying to fathom out what was going on in her head; it wasn’t long before she spoke.

“Pipe – what changed? I mean if she wanted me then why doesn’t she now? She still likes you so is it me?”

“No honey don’t think that – its just well Prue’s under a lot of pressure lately that’s all I guess it’s got to come out somewhere unfortunately you seem to be the target. I’m sure it will pass, things will work out you’ll see”

“I hope so Pipe – I miss her”

Piper ruffled the little girl’s hair “It’ll get better, just try and keep out of bother eh?”

Phoebe nodded “Yeah, I thought I’d tidy up a bit before she comes in”

Piper smiled “That’s good, I’m sure she’ll appreciate that. Now listen, I need to leave in an hour, Prue won’t be late she should be in not long after, will you be ok?”

Phoebe nodded “Yes, I’ll be fine, don’t worry”

Piper grinned at her kid sister “With you? I always worry!”


Prue sat down in one of the booths, she was beat, she felt absolutely worn out, she knew if she didn’t get moving soon she never would, an overwhelming tiredness had consumed her.

“Hey babes! You ready?”

Prue lifted her eyes to meet those of her boyfriend he could see how tired she was, her eyes looked watery, the rims were red, and she had dark circles under her eyes.

Andy sat next to her and put his arm around her shoulders.

“You look tired baby, why don’t you let me take care of you? I’ll soon have you feeling better”

Prue bit on her lip, she felt exhausted all she wanted to do was sleep.

“Come on Prue, you can’t let me down now, you promised”

Prue ran her hand over her face and slowly nodded, she watched the smile break out on Andy’s face as he helped her to her feet.

“I’ve got a surprise for you”

Prue held in the groan, she knew whatever it was would keep her from her sleep.

“I’ve rented a room”

Prue’s eyes went wide “You what?”

“Well, I was thinking, we’ve not had much time lately for one on one” he grinned at his girlfriend he knew she loved his smile it never failed to win her over.

Prue shook her head “We’re supposed to be going to Jodie’s”

“Chill babe! I’ve got it all figured out” Andy looked smug as he pulled Prue closer; she closed her eyes as she felt his mouth meet hers “See what you’ve been missing?” Andy pulled back slightly and smiled at his girlfriend, “I’ve got the room for the night, we can go there now have a bit of fun then head over to the party”

“Andy!” Prue sounded exasperated “You know I can’t be late! Phoebes on her own!”

“Phoebes on her own!” Andy sounded annoyed his mood quickly switching “How many times have I heard that?”

“Actually Andy never! I’m not in the habit of leaving her!”

“You know what I mean; it’s always one of them! Look come on Prue a few hours won’t hurt, its ages since we had some quality time together 10 minutes in the back of the car isn’t my idea of a great time”

Prue blushed “Nor mine” she felt close to tears, she was exhausted far to tired to argue, she felt Andy pulling her towards his car.

“Andy can’t we just go to the party?”

Andy didn’t even bother to reply, he slammed the door shut and revved the engine, Prue pushed herself into her seat, she closed her eyes, just hoping to block out the tension, she woke with a jolt, it took her a minute to realize she was outside a motel, Andy unbuckled her seat belt and got out “Come on! I’ve paid for this if you think it’s going to waste you can think again!”

Prue rubbed at her face, she couldn’t think straight, she felt dizzy and light headed as she followed him through the Motel door.

“Andy I’m shattered, I don’t feel so good, I’d just like to go home”

Andy was taking off his jacket “Later, first we have some fun”

“Andy I’m not in the mood”

“You never are!” Andy’s bad mood was rapidly returning his patience was wearing out “Apart from the odd fumble or quick screw in the car when was the last time we had sex?”

Prue’s eyes went wide Andy sounded to cold; she took a deep breath “I can’t remember”

“My point exactly, now we’re here we might as well make the most of it” Andy’s tone had changed yet again; he smiled as he took Prue’s hand “I’m sorry baby” he snuggled into Prue’s neck “But you’re just so dam sexy! I need you!” his hands began to roam across his girlfriend’s body “Come on baby you can feel how much I need you”

Prue bit on her lip and swallowed back the tears, she pressed her mouth to Andy’s and allowed him to undo her top, she offered no resistance as he pushed her onto the bed.

Prue pulled her jeans on, she felt worse than ever, apart from the overwhelming exhaustion her body ached. Andy had been rough, he’d pounded her body letting out his pent up frustration, she just wanted to get home, it was late she had work to do and she’d left her sisters much longer than she had intended.

“What’s the rush?”

Prue turned her angry blue eyes onto her boyfriend “You know dam well I have to get home!”

“Oh come on!” Andy rolled his eyes “Break out for once; loosen up, what can happen?”

“Andy they’re too young to be left all night, I might not like it but I have responsibilities, I have to get back for them, besides I’m tired I need to sleep!” Prue sounded exasperated she’d lost count of the number of times they’d had this conversation.

“How about we compromise?” Andy stood behind Prue and wrapped his arms around her he palmed her breast as he snuggled into her neck.

Prue tensed as she felt his warm breath in her ear, she’d had enough she just wanted to go home.

“Come on baby, how about we go to Jodie’s? Just for an hour or so?”

Andy nibbled on his girlfriend’s ear, totally oblivious to her discomfort.

“Just an hour?”

Andy smiled, he knew once more he’d got his way, he caressed Prue’s face turning her so he could reach her mouth, Prue slowly began to relax as she felt Andy stroking her back easing the tension.



Prue’s little sister was feeling quite pleased with herself, she’d done the dishes, she’d brought the laundry down ready to be put in the machine, she’d dusted the lounge, and tidied the bedrooms. She flopped onto the sofa, maybe tonight would be different? If Prue could see she was really making an effort, that she’d listened to her, then surely she couldn’t be mad at her?

Phoebe flipped the TV on, it was only now that she was no longer busy the fact that she was on her own began to sink in. Piper had called not long after she’d left to say she’d be late, her class we’re going for pizza, she’d made sure Phoebe was alright and reassured her that Prue would be home in the next half hour or so. That had been, Phoebe looked at her watch, three hours ago.

Phoebe was torn, she knew Prue would hit the roof if she wasn’t in bed, it was late and Prue was really strict about her bedtime, but Phoebe also wanted to see her big sister, she hoped for once that Prue would be pleased with her, also although she hated to admit it, Phoebe was a little scared, she’d never been on her own like this before. Phoebe jumped the house was old and prone to creaks and noises, Phoebe decided the best course of action would be to get ready for bed, then come down and wait on the sofa. Somehow she felt safer in the lounge than in her bedroom and if Prue was mad at her she’d only have to run upstairs.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

“Hey Prue! Almost given you up” Lori practically pounced on Prue as soon as she entered the door.

“Yeah well, let’s just say Andy can be full of surprises”

Lori narrowed her eyes Prue’s voice had held no trace of humor “You ok Prue?”

Prue nodded, it was all beginning to catch up, she felt such a mix of emotions, exhaustion, worry, but most of all she felt used. She looked across at Andy he was talking to some of his mates, his mouth wide open his laugh loud. Lori pushed a drink into Prue’s hand “Here, drink this you’ll feel better”

Prue looked down she was holding a bottle of coke “Nothing in it is there?”

“No” Lori laughed “Suspicious much!”

“Sorry,” Prue let out a growl “Dam it! I shouldn’t even be here!”

“Then why are you?”

Prue rolled her eyes “Why do you think?”

Lori shook her head “Get a grip Prue! Come on this just isn’t you!”

Prue handed the coke back to her friend “You’re right, I don’t know what’s got into me lately.”

Lori gave her friend a half smile; she was pleased that Prue finally seemed to be regaining her senses.

Prue gently put her hand on Andy’s arm “Andy I need to go”

Andy laughed “So go”

“Andy!” Prue sounded annoyed her boyfriend was obviously showing off, trying to look cool in front of his mates.

“Go! Don’t expect me to come with you” Andy let out a laugh “I’ve got what I needed” His grin widened as he turned his attention back to his friends “If you know what I mean?!”

Prue had never felt so humiliated it was obvious what Andy was referring to, his friends stood there laughing egging him on.

“Yeah?” Prue’s voice was shaking with temper “Pity I can’t say the same!”

Andy’s face dropped as his friends laughed even louder, Prue had a look of satisfaction on her face as she turned to Lori “Lori, can you do me a favour? Take me home please?”

Lori’s grin was wide “Sure thing Prue,” She leaned in closer to Prue “You go girl!”

Prue picked up her jacket and followed her friend to the car; she leaned against the car door for a moment taking some deep breaths.

“Prue you sure you’re ok?”

“Yeah, I’m just so mad!!! How could he?! I gave him what he wanted, I came to the dam party and this is how I get treated!”

Lori watched as her friend got into the car, Prue was fuming, she was shaking with temper, so worked up she could hardly speak, “Prue, look you’ve got every right to be mad but don’t you think you should try and calm down? You’ve been on edge for weeks this isn’t going to do you any good”

Prue was chewing on the skin along the side of her thumb, clearly still agitated.

“Prue look we’re here now, do you want me to come in with you? I’ll make you some tea or something we can have a talk”

“No, no, I’m fine.” Prue grabbed her stuff “Thanks Lori but I’ve got to study for a couple of hours then I’m straight to bed”

“Prue forget the studying get some sleep”

“Yeah, thanks again” Prue’s tone was dismissive as she waved to her friend.

Lori watched as Prue let her self into the house, she’d been worried for a while but she’d never seen Prue so worked up as she was that night.

+++++++++++++

Phoebe jumped at the sound of the front door slamming, she immediately sensed her sister’s mood and quickly got up ready to go to bed, she hadn’t got half way across the room when Prue started.

“What the hell are you doing still up?”

“I erm, I” Phoebe stumbled over her words, her big sister once again making her nervous “I was, err just going” Phoebe had decided the best course of action was to make a quick getaway.

“You should have been in bed hours ago!” Prue’s voice boomed across the room causing her little sister to flinch “Where the hell is Piper?”

“She’s, she’s out, she’s at her study group”

Prue was furious “Get to bed, I’ll deal with you in the morning”

Phoebe didn’t need telling twice she flew up the stairs.

Prue rubbed the bridge of her nose – one dam thing! One dam thing and she couldn’t even do that! Was it too much to ask? One night off and what happens? Piper bails! Prue was building up into frenzy all rational thought had flown out of the window; she let out a low growl as she made her way to her room.

Prue stopped in the entrance, she stared for a moment, and then looked around again, everything had been moved, her books were stacked her papers straightened.

“PHOEBE! GET YOU ASS IN HERE NOW!”

Phoebe was terrified, her sister sounded mad, there was no doubt she was going to cop it, not wanting to upset her further Phoebe very cautiously opened her bedroom door.

“You are dead! You are so dead!” Prue pounced on her little sister and dragged her to her bedroom “Is this your doing? Did you do this?” Prue wasn’t giving Phoebe any time to answer she had tight hold of her arm as she roughly shook her.

“I thought,” Phoebe was struggling to get her words out “You’d be pleased”

“PLEASED!” Prue shoved her sister into the corner “How many god dam times have I told you to keep out! You’ve ruined everything! EVERYTHING!”

Phoebe was shaking Prue was really freaking out and there was no escape Prue picked up a handful of books and threw them in the direction of her sister, Prue was out of breath, her breathing erratic, “I had them all ready! You’ve lost my pages! It took me hours!”

Prue grabbed her little sister and yanked her to her feet, she held her tight with her left hand while she started battering her with the right.

“Prue! No! No! Stop! Stop!” Phoebe was shaking she had never seen her sister like this, Prue’s eyes were wild.

Phoebe was crying trying to make her self small, trying to avoid her sister’s blows but there was no escape. Prue was furious; she picked up her little sister and threw her into the corner.

“ONE NIGHT! JUST ONE NIGHT!”

Phoebe listened to her sister screaming, she couldn’t make any sense of her words it was just one long torrent, she watched in horror as Prue unbuckled her belt and slid it out of the loops.

“PRUEEEEEE Noooooooo! Pleaseeeeee don’t!” Phoebe was desperate, scared and shocked – Prue had never taken a belt to her.

Phoebe lost count of the number of times Prue whipped her she was in agony – she had curled into a ball her head in her hands, arms covering her face.

Piper had never moved so fast she could hear Prue shouting and Phoebe screaming from the pavement, she took the stairs two at a time. She had no time to digest the scene she couldn’t get near to Prue she did the only thing she could think of she threw herself in between her sisters.

Piper yowled in pain as the belt caught her arm “Enough Prue! What the hell do you think you’re doing?”

Piper was shocked she could see the state Prue was in she was shaking still consumed by anger, Piper could feel the sting in her arm and she had a thick top on – she couldn’t begin to imagine how Phoebe must be feeling.

Piper glared at Prue she had never expected it to come to this Prue could be hard with Phoebe she’d given her a few hidings but nothing like this, she’d totally lost it. Piper could feel her own anger rising as she locked eyes with her older sister, she brought her hand back and slapped Prue as hard as she could Prue looked stunned – she looked first at Piper and then at Phoebe.

Prue’s hand went to her mouth “Oh god! What have I done? Oh god Phoebe!”

Phoebes was unable to move she felt as though she’d been run over by a truck she ached so much, she lay on the floor whimpering in pain and shock.

Prue put her hand out to pull her sister up but Piper smacked it back. “Don’t touch her! You’ve done enough damage! Leave her to me I’ll pick up your crap” Pipers eyes were blazing as she stared her sister in the face.

Prue was shocked she was truly horrified she looked on letting Piper sort out her mess.

Piper took a deep breath she gently lifted her baby sister up, Phoebe was shaking so much she couldn’t stand, Piper carefully carried her to her room and placed her on the bed, “Shh baby its ok honey Pipers got you you’ll feel better soon” Piper was scared Phoebe looked so tiny she had always been small for her age but Piper had never seen her look so vulnerable.


Piper stroked her little sisters hair, Phoebe was distraught the tears were pouring down her face, her small body curled into a ball. Piper could feel her own tears starting, her little sister looked so pitiful, Piper knew there wasn’t a nasty bone in the little girls body, whatever she’d done she’d done with good intentions. Piper fought back the tears as she carefully lifted her baby sister into her arms; she rocked her gently trying her best to calm her down

‘Phoebe honey are you ok can you say something?” Piper was getting desperate her baby sister was inconsolable; she almost wished Prue was there.

Piper felt Phoebes head move, she gently kissed the little girls forehead, “shh, its ok, it’s ok, you’ll be alright……….good girl, there’s a good girl” the words came automatically, she didn’t know what else to say, no words could describe what she was feeling, how Phoebe must be feeling. Eventually managing to subdue her little sister Piper became aware of someone else in the room she knew it had to be Prue. Phoebe sensed it too the trembling resumed as she clung to Piper for all she was worth.

Piper held the little girl to her she could see Prue over Phoebes shoulder she looked awful, her face was ashen she’d been crying her eyes still full of unshed tears.

“I’m sorry – I’m so sorry” Prue’s voice was almost unrecognizable it was thick with emotion – she reached a hand out to touch Phoebes hair “So sorry…I’m so sorry” Phoebe screamed at her sisters touch and slammed herself further into Piper.

“Leave us Prue”

“Piper I can’t we can’t I mean we need to sort this I’m so sorry”

Piper was still furious and Phoebe was her priority even so she knew Prue was right they did need to sort this. Prue knelt in front of her little sisters.

“Pheebes I’m so sorry I don’t know what else to say – I’m so sorry I don’t know what happened, I’m sorry, I’m really sorry, I’m going to get help honey this won’t happen again I promise you – I’ll never hurt you again” Tears were streaming down Prue’s face – Phoebe stared blankly at her.

“Phoebe I mean it – I’m so so sorry I swear I’ll do anything it takes, I’ll get help, I promise I won’t ever hurt you ever again” the tears were still pouring, Prue’s voice was shaking with emotion, desperate to put things right.

Phoebe was clinging to Piper she could feel her little sister trembling on her knee.

“Go away! I hate you! I HATE YOU!” The loudness of Phoebe’s voice was distilled by the tremor - Prue looked at Piper she moved forward intending to stroke Phoebe’s hair but this just made Phoebe more distraught, her face was panic stricken “GO AWAY!”

Prue turned to Piper tears falling down her face “I’m sorry, I’m so sorry please Piper I’m sorry tell her I’m sorry”

“Just leave Prue” Piper didn’t sound unkind she had started to calm down she had listened to her sister and realized she’d needed help for some time. Prue had been out of character lately, unpredictable, worst thing of all was her temper especially with Phoebe. Piper should have realized something was wrong, Prue had been desperate Piper remembered her pleading with their Grandmother not to go, that it was too much, all her cries had been ignored, today had tipped her sister over the edge it was a cry for help and Piper felt guilty; she should have spotted it she should have done more to prevent it.

“Its ok just go Prue”

Prue nodded in defeat and returned to her own room.

Phoebe was still shaking on her knee – for all her brave words she was obviously still scared stiff of their big sister she looked heartbroken as she sobbed into Pipers shoulder.

“Shh, shh honey its ok – it will be ok. Prue’s sorry honey she really is, she needs help baby”

“She hates me Piper” Phoebe was sobbing the tears pouring down her face.

“No you’re wrong she doesn’t she’s just a bit confused lately that’s all but she does love you I know that much”

“She hurt me”

“I know, and that was wrong I’m very angry with her for that but Prue needs help its like she’s sick do you understand”

“No”

“She’s been under a lot of pressure everything’s just got too much for her, she reached breaking point, but she’s going to get help - babe I believe her she won’t do that again”

Phoebe was beginning to calm she sat in silence on her sisters knee she felt safe with Pipers arms tight around her, she snuggled in.

Piper stroked her hair Phoebe was a little calmer she knew she had to fix this.

“Do you hate Prue Phoebe?”

She felt Phoebe shake her head.

“How do you feel?”

“I don’t know Pipe” Piper could hear the upset in Phoebes voice Prue wasn’t the only one that was confused and upset.

“Ok baby don’t worry it’s ok” Piper gently rocked her emotionally worn out little sister, lulling her into a deep sleep, putting her to bed, she pushed Phoebes hair back and kissed her on the forehead, she just couldn’t believe it had come to this..

Piper went downstairs to try and get her thoughts straight but she kept going around in circles so much damage had been done she didn’t know where to start. Feeling an overwhelming need to be with her little sister she made her way back to Phoebe’s room quietly opening the door she looked in only to find Prue sitting next to the bed silent tears streaming down her face.

As angry as she was Piper felt something in her tear – she had never seen her big sister look so upset she went over to her and put an arm around her shoulders, Prue turned her face and buried it in Pipers stomach. Piper was shocked Prue was never good at showing her feelings she had never seen her in such a state, huge sobs wrecked through Prue’s body.

Piper gently pulled her up and led her away from Phoebe’s room, sitting on Prue’s bed Piper held her sister until the crying subsided.

“Piper how could I? How could I hurt her like that?” Prue looked defeated “You both must hate me so much”

“No Prue – I did I was so angry when I saw the state she was in – is in. But I’ve had time to think it’s not just you I should have realized things were to much for you Prue you’ve been so different lately especially with Pheebes – you’ve been so strict with her - I should have realized”

Prue shook her head “I wouldn’t have listened”

Piper hugged her sister “I’ll help you Prue I’ll do whatever is needed I promise – with Phoebe with whatever”

Prue nodded “I don’t see how things can ever be as they should – Phoebe must hate me – at best she’s scared of me. I should have listened – Piper I can’t see how I can ever fix this”

“Don’t try that’s part of the problem Prue its not just you who needs to fix this its all of us. I don’t know how we can do it but we can. You know what Phoebes like she wants to be loved she gets really upset when you shout at her – she’ll want to be alright with time – she might not think so know but I know how much she loves you. Give her time Prue she’ll come round – that’s our Pheebes; she’s so sweet natured”

Prue was crying again “I know! I know! That’s what makes this so awful - she’s so loving and I’ve been such a bitch, last week I gave her such a smack I can’t even remember what for Piper I hit her so hard her feet left the floor, she just ran to her room. But the awful thing is Piper she came to me later; she tried to sit on my knee for a cuddle but I pushed her away. Piper! I actually pushed her off my knee and sent her to bed – I can still see her face she looked so hurt she’d been crying her face was all red and blotchy and I felt nothing! Nothing! Not till later - but it was too late then she was in bed whimpering in her sleep. What sort of a person am I?”

“Listen Prue, something’s wrong but at least we know this now – we can’t change what’s happened but we can try and make her understand”

“Even the next day I was horrible, I knew what I was doing, I knew I was hurting her, and I didn’t care, I didn’t care” Prue was rambling everything was closing in on her. “How can she? How can she understand? I can’t, I’m supposed to look after her, I’ve hurt her so bad Piper how can she understand that?”

Piper shook her head, she didn’t have the answers, the only thing she could act on was instinct.

“I don’t know Prue” Piper looked into the tormented eyes of her oldest sister “I think we need time to calm down and think things through, there’s so much that we need to work out” Piper hesitated “Do you think we should ask Grams to come home?”

Prue slowly raised her eyes and met those of her younger sister “I don’t know, I “Prue hesitated “I rang her the other night, I told her that I wasn’t really coping”

Piper bit on her lip, she’d heard some of the conversation, she knew how hard it had been for Prue to make that call, she had also heard Prue’s pleas they appeared to be falling on deaf ears.

“I heard some of it” Piper felt guilty, she’d heard it and ignored it.

“She wasn’t interested; she said she had bigger problems at the moment than my whining”

“Prue?!” Piper was shocked

“I” Prue was struggling to form the words “I understand, really, I mean it’s her sister Piper, she’s really ill I can’t expect her to be thinking about anything else”

“So where does that leave us now?”

“I don’t know,”

Piper felt sorry for her big sister she looked so lost and defeated.

Prue took a deep breath “Maybe we should ask Phoebe, maybe Phoebe would feel better if Grams came home”

“Do you think that’s fair?”

Piper looked on in dismay as Prue’s face crumbled “No, but” Prue covered her face.

“Prue its ok” Piper reached out and put a comforting arm around her sisters shoulders “You’re not alone, come on we just need to talk things through we’ll get there Prue, I promise, things will get better. Why don’t you go to bed, we’ll talk more tomorrow…..ok”

Prue nodded, she doubted if she could sleep, every time she closed her eyes the vision of Phoebe battered, and shaking on the floor came flooding back.

“Do you want me to stay?” Piper could see her sister was far from alright her hands were shaking the tears wouldn’t stop.

“No,” Prue took her sisters hands “Thanks” she choked as she tried to continue “Phoebe, Phoebe needs you, go to her, I’m ok” Prue was nodding her head as she spoke as though to emphasize her words “Look after Phoebe”

Piper was torn but she knew Prue was right, both her sisters were in a state, but the little one was devastated.

“You sure?”

Prue nodded “I’m sure, tell her I’m sorry” Prue choked again as the tears started pouring down her face “Tell her I love her”.

Piper leaned forward and kissed her big sisters cheek “I’m sorry too Prue, I love you”

Piper left one distraught sister and went to the other, relieved to find Phoebe asleep she pulled back the covers and gently lay beside her baby sister; placing a protective arm around her shoulders. Piper closed her eyes eventually giving in to the overwhelming tiredness.

+++++++++++++++


Piper groaned as memories of the previous evening started to flood back, she turned on to her side surprised to see her little sister wide awake the massive brown eyes staring at her.

“Hey babe, how you feeling?”

Piper watched in dismay as Phoebe’s eyes filled with tears, she pulled the little girl to her and held her close, she couldn’t speak, Piper was at a loss for words instead she stroked the little girl’s hair waiting for her to calm down.

“I ache”

“I’m sure you do, how about I go and make you something to eat then you can take some painkillers?”

Phoebe shook her head “No, don’t go”

“Pheebes, you need to eat honey, do you want to come down with me?”

Piper watched the fear flash across her little sisters face “Phoebe she won’t hurt you, I promise”

“Noooo”

“Ok then, but I have to go and get you some breakfast; I won’t be long, ok?” Piper was already disentangling herself; Phoebe knew it was pointless to argue Piper sounded firm.

“Be quick”

Piper smiled as she kissed her little sister on the top of her head “I will”

Piper let out a deep breath as she closed the bedroom door there was no doubt in her mind that today was going to be emotionally draining, she wandered downstairs lost in thought only to be snapped out of her reverie by the sound of her oldest sisters muffled tones. She found Prue on the phone in the lounge; she didn’t look any better than last night she was still crying as she held a choked conversation.

“Grams….I know, I’m sorry…..I’m so sorry” Piper stood for a moment taking in the scene before her “I can’t………….you don’t understand I can’t” Prue was sobbing clearly distraught “I can’t do everything, I’ve tried…………I tried…….I really tried”

Piper had heard enough, she’d ignored this type of scene once before it wasn’t going to happen again, she leaned over and grabbed the phone of her sister; Prue didn’t even try and stop her she slumped to the ground huge sobs wracking her body.

“It’s down to you Prue, you pull yourself together! I don’t want to hear this, you’ve got responsibilities, things may have got out of hand but you need to pick yourself up and get on” Piper held the phone away from her ear, she could hardly believe the harsh tones of her grandmother.

“Grams its Piper”

“Thank heavens! Now maybe I’ll get a bit of sense!”

“Did Prue tell you what happened?”

“She said she hit Phoebe”

“Battered”

“Yes, yes she did say that, but well, Piper these things happen she needs to pull herself together and get on with it”

“Grams! You’ve got no idea have you?! Prue needs help, she’s crying out for help, she has been for months and you just ignore her! Not just you all of us!” Piper’s words came out in a flood her anger and frustration at her Grandmothers lack of understanding clearly evident “She warned you! She told you! I heard her! Well I hope you’re satisfied, she finally snapped! You expect too much! She’s SEVENTEEN!” Piper was screaming down the phone “You expect her to go to school, study, work, run a house and bring up her little sister, she’s not Super BLOODY Woman!”

“PIPER!” Penny Halliwell sounded just as annoyed as her Granddaughter “Somebody has to do it! I can’t do everything!”

“I know that! I dam well know that and neither can Prue! Are you coming home?” Piper cut to the chase.

“No, I can’t” for the first time Piper detected some emotion in her Grandmothers voice “Things aren’t looking good here”

Piper took a deep breath “Fine. I mean I understand its ok, but things are going to change Grams whether you like it or not, there’s no way Prue can go on like this, no way any of us can. You expect too much from her and Phoebe got the fall out. First thing to go is Prue’s job”

Prue looked up from her position on the floor Piper sounded so forceful, so in control.

Prue was shaking her head “We need the money, we need the money”

“Like hell” Piper barked at her sister before turning her attention back to her Grams “Like I said the first thing to go is her job, its unreasonable she can’t be expected to go to school and work and run a house and study for finals its too much!” Piper was on a roll “You can take money out of the estate, give Prue what she would have earned she spends it on us anyway”

“Your mothers money is there for emerge”

Piper cut her grandmother off “What do you think this is?! Can I not get through to you Prue is sick!”

There was silence over the phone lines as Pipers words penetrated Penny’s brain “Ok”

Piper let out a breath she didn’t know she’d been holding “Good”

“Piper,” Penny’s voice was softer “Tell Prue I’m sorry, do what you need to do I’m sorry I can’t come back, and look after Phoebe”

“I will” Piper was still annoyed but she realized that her Grandmother was having a rough time taking care of her invalid sister “Grams, take care we’ll be ok”

Piper hung up the phone and looked at her oldest sister she looked awful, she clearly hadn’t slept her face and eyes were swollen from crying Piper reached out and pulled her to her feet “Come on, breakfast then bed”

Prue’s face crumbled again she just couldn’t get a grip of her emotions “I’m sorry”

Piper gave her sister a half smile “So I hear”

Prue shook her head “I am”

“I know” Piper felt tears pricking the back of her eyes as she pulled Prue to her “I know”.

“What about Phoebe?”

“I’m going to talk to her try and make her understand a bit then I’m going out – you stay and look after her ok?”

“If she’ll let me”

“Just take it slow – Prue don’t push her she’s scared, let her come to you”

“She’s more than scared Pipe”

Piper nodded – anyway I’ll talk to her just be gentle – now bed!”

Prue gave a cynical smile, “Thanks Piper, I love you”

Piper had taken Phoebes her breakfast; she gave her some painkillers hoping that once she’d settled down she’d have a good long sleep. Piper needed time to think, up until now Prue had always made the decisions, and it seemed strange to Piper to suddenly find herself in charge she sat in the lounge trying to think through the best way to handle Phoebe; she hadn’t been there long when she heard a thumping on the stairs. She looked around to see her little sister coming down obviously in a great deal of pain.

Phoebe made her way to Piper and gingerly sat on her knee, she cuddled in tight wrapping her arms around her sister’s neck, relishing in the comfort of Piper’s arms.

“You ok honey?”

“I hurt”

“I know, you can have some more painkillers in a bit that will help”

Phoebe nodded content for the moment on her sister’s knee.

Piper took a deep breath “Phoebe, erm I spoke to Prue before she’s ever so upset”

Phoebe didn’t respond.

“She meant what she said you know about getting help”

Piper felt Phoebe shrug.

Piper knew it was a dirty trick but she knew her sister well she hated people being upset

“Pheebes I’ve left Prue crying in her room she was so upset about what happened”

Piper heard Phoebe sniff but she still didn’t say anything.

Piper waited a moment “Why don’t you go and see her?”

Phoebe turned around to face her, her big brown eyes showing exactly how she felt – scared.

“She’s sorry Phoebe she won’t shout at you or smack you it’ll be alright I promise”

“I don’t know what to do Pipe, I don’t like her anymore, and that makes me sad - I don’t know how to fix it”

Piper smiled almost the same words Prue had spoken.

“We’ll all fix it baby it’ll be ok”

“But why Piper? Why did she hurt me?’ Phoebe’s eyes were welling with tears.

“It’s like she’s not been well Phoebe she hasn’t been herself lately”

“But she’s going to get better?”

“Do you want her to?”

Phoebe slowly nodded as Piper brushed her tears away “I miss her Pipe” the tears began to stream down her face.

“Then you’ll have to help her honey”

Phoebe chocked back a sob “How?”

“Just be you baby just be yourself, follow your instincts”

Piper made Phoebe something to eat and gave her the tablets kissing her on the forehead she explained that she was going out.

Phoebe looked panic stricken.

“Pheebes trust me – Prue won’t hurt you you’ll be alright – there’s no way I’d leave you with her if I had the slightest doubt, you know that”

Phoebe nodded but looked unconvinced, “I’m going back to bed then.”

Piper frowned but let her be, her little sister had been through a lot she didn’t want to push her.

Phoebe was tired she went back to her room and carefully lay down but she couldn’t sleep, as tired as she was she couldn’t get Pipers words out of her head – Prue was upset, Prue was ill.

Phoebe was confused but she knew whenever she was upset or ill it was always Prue who made her better. Prue would sit up all night with her if necessary, she bought her favorite food and comics she kissed her, held her tight, rocked her.

Piper had known exactly how to manipulate her; Phoebe loved both her sisters with all her heart Phoebe couldn’t get Prue out of her head she very quietly tiptoed to Prue’s room. Prue was asleep, Phoebe stared at her making no effort to wake her, she could see she had been crying something she never did Phoebe felt like crying herself she was so confused.

Prue opened her eyes and immediately sensed someone watching her – she was shocked and surprised to see Phoebe standing on the other side of the room staring at her.

Prue couldn’t help but notice the fear in the little girl’s eyes as Prue looked across.

“It’s ok I won’t hurt you……………… I’m sorry”

Phoebe continued to stare – Prue sat up.

“Are you ok?”

Phoebe shook her head ever so slightly but didn’t break her gaze.

The sisters stayed that way for quite sometime eventually Phoebes broke the silence.

“Are you?”

Prue shook her head as she did the tears began to fall “No where near”

Phoebe bit her lip. “Are you sick?”

“I don’t know I think I must be, I never meant to hurt you”

Phoebes moved ever so slowly towards the bed.

Eventually Phoebe was within touching distance of Prue – Prue was remembering what
Piper had said – take it slow she’ll come to you. Prue looked more closely at the little girl she looked awful, she had black circles under her eyes and she looked so pale, Prue buried her face in her hands – what had she done?

Phoebe watched in silence, after a few minutes she tentatively reached out a hand and touched Prue’s arm.

Prue looked up at her little sister.

Phoebe was still confused she loved Prue with all her heart but she’d hurt her so much.

“Do you want anything?” Phoebe’s voice was quiet.

Prue was shocked her little sister wanted to look after her! She shook her head then she paused she gave Phoebe a half smile, “There is one thing”

Phoebe raised her eyebrows.

“But I don’t know if you’ll do it for me”

“What?”

“I could do with a hug”

Phoebe didn’t say anything silence filled the room as the sisters locked eyes then Phoebe did what Piper had told her to do she followed her instincts………...she shook her head.

Prue felt as thought she had a heavy weight pressing on her chest, Phoebe had never no matter what rejected affection from either of her sisters.

Prue nodded “Ok. It’s alright”

Phoebe’s eyes were full of tears.

“Do you want anything – can I do anything to make you feel better?” Prue looked at her little sister longing to hold her tight but knowing she couldn’t Phoebe wasn’t ready and Prue really didn’t blame her.

“No – I’m going to sleep now, I’m tired”

Prue nodded “Me to” Prue hesitated she knew she risked another rejection but she had to try, “Want to stay here? Sleep with me?”

Phoebe shook her head again, two tears falling slowly down her face.

“Oh Pheebes?” Prue’s voice was full of compassion she could feel the tears in her own eyes her little sister was so upset and there was nothing she could do to make it better.

Phoebe sniffed and turned around, deep down she wanted nothing more than to climb into Prue’s big bed and snuggle close to her sister but she couldn’t not yet she was still too confused. Phoebe went back to her room and lay down trying to get as comfortable as she could – eventually the tiredness won she was soon breathing deeply fast asleep.

Unable to settle Prue made her way downstairs intending to make some tea; she smiled as she read the note from Piper:

‘Prue – given Phoebe some painkillers due again at 5 – she’s not eaten much, tread carefully remember she loves you. See you later Pipe’

Prue looked at the clock it was nearly 5, she looked in the cupboards and the fridge hoping to find something that she knew her sister would eat, she couldn’t help smiling again when she found two plates already prepared by Piper with another note attached.

‘Prue just heat these up for 30 minutes – even you can’t ruin this! Enjoy!’

Prue carefully opened the door to her sisters bedroom – She bit her bottom lip when she saw her little sister Phoebe was still laying on her tummy but her eyes were wide open, Prue had never known the youngest Halliwell to stay still for any amount of time it nearly broke her heart to see her youngest sibling so quiet and sad.

“Hey Pheebes, Piper left some food for us, you hungry?”

Phoebe carefully rolled on to her side.

Prue couldn’t help but notice the look of fear on the little girls face.

“It’s ok if your not – I won’t force you, but you might feel better if you eat something, will you try?”

Phoebe nodded; Prue gave her a slight smile “It’s almost ready are you coming down now?

Phoebe nodded, she rolled over trying to get up off the bed Prue heard her suck her breath in in pain.

“Phoebe can I do anything?”

Phoebe had rolled back on to her tummy letting the pain subside her breath was coming in gasps. Prue realized her sisters painkillers were wearing off and she’d probably stiffened from lying in one position.

Phoebe couldn’t answer she was too busy trying to control her breathing, Prue decided to push it a bit she couldn’t bear to see her kid sister like this. She sat on the bed and carefully moved the covers down, as she did she felt Phoebe push herself deeper into the bed in an effort to put distance between them. Prue took a deep breath and gently put her hand on Phoebes back; Phoebe was whimpering scared Prue was going to hurt her.

“Shh, baby its ok, shh I just want to help – let me rub your back it’ll take the stiffness away shh, shh”

Phoebe was rigid Prue could feel the tension in her little sisters body; she continued to make soothing noises while she rubbed the little girls back eventually she felt Phoebe relax.

“Is that ok honey does that help?”

Phoebe hadn’t spoken the entire time she’d been there once again she nodded, Prue continued with the back rub easing the tension that had built she was careful to avoid the welts. Prue could see her sister had begun to calm down “Wait here sweetie I’ll go look in the bathroom see if there’s anything that might help”

Phoebe didn’t move she hadn’t wanted Prue’s help but she felt so much better, she closed her eyes and waited for Prue to return, she hadn’t heard Prue come back she jumped when she felt Prue’s hand touch her head.

“Its ok Pheebes, I’ve found some gel it should help” As she was talking Prue was gently pulling Phoebes nightshirt up, she closed her eyes and held her breath when she saw the extent of the damage she’d done. Her little sisters body was a mass of angry red welts and bruises, Phoebe tried to crawl away but Prue held her firmly.

“Its ok honey I’m not going to hurt you I promise this will help” Prue held her sister down whilst she gently rubbed in the cold, soothing gel, once again she felt her sister’s tension once again she felt her begin to relax as the soothing began to take effect.

When she had finished she carefully lifted Phoebe so she didn’t have to roll over and placed her on the floor in front of her.

Prue gently reached out and lifted Phoebes face so she could look her in the eyes. “Phoebe I’m sorry, I’m so sorry” Prue felt the tears stinging threatening to fall, she could still remember how Phoebe had flinched as she had rubbed the cream in.

Phoebe still didn’t speak.

Prue stood up and looked at the sad face of her sister – she held her hand out – “Dinners ready now”

Phoebe nodded her head but didn’t take the offered hand she followed her sister down to the kitchen.

Prue looked at the little girl she was fidgeting standing near the kitchen chair, Prue knelt down in front of her “Do you want to sit on the sofa would that be better?”

Once again Phoebe nodded.

“Go on then, go through I’ll bring the tray in”

Prue took a deep breath and ran her hands over her face – so much damage had been done and she knew it wasn’t just physical – her little sister was frightened of her, so scared she couldn’t bring herself to trust her.

Prue went through and placed the tray on Phoebes lap.

Phoebe looked up at her “Thanks”

It was Prue’s turn to nod.

The sisters ate in silence when they’d finished Prue took the trays out and returned with a drink and Phoebes tablets, she sat next to her sister and handed them to her.

“Prue?”

“What?”

“Can I ask you something?”

“Course you can”

“It’s just that well; it’s just that I’ve been trying to think you know what I’ve done?”

Prue looked puzzled.

“What did I do Prue? Why don’t you love me anymore?’ there was a long silence Prue felt like she’d choke if she opened her mouth.

It was Phoebe who broke the silence

“When did you stop loving me? What did I do?” Phoebe’s big brown eyes were brimming over with tears as she looked at her big sister.

Prue still couldn’t speak her little sister sounded so hurt so broken and worst of all she was blaming herself, she felt like she had a big lump in her chest, she could feel her heart thumping her little sister looked so small and vulnerable – she had hurt her so much.

Prue looked down at the floor overwhelmed with guilt the tears fell uncontrollably her voice was almost inaudible when she answered.

“I have loved you from the minute I saw you, I have always loved you, I always will love you, I’ll never stop loving you” Prue lifted her head and looked straight into Phoebes eyes, Phoebes eyes were a mirror of her own full of pain and confusion. “Its not you Phoebe its me – its me its not you you’ve done nothing wrong I can’t explain it I just know I treated you so badly I screwed up big time but if you’ll let me I’ll make it up to you I promise. It won’t be overnight honey I need help I know that now but trust me I love you always have always will”

Phoebe didn’t answer the air was full of emotion.

Phoebe looked at her big sister she could see the pain she was in she had never seen Prue so upset – this was her rock her protector – once again she did what Piper had told her to do she followed her instincts. Phoebes loved her sister with all her heart she couldn’t bear to see her so broken. She carefully slid across and climbed on her knee she put her arms around Prue’s neck.

Prue could feel Phoebe trembling she felt so guilty.

“Pheebes I’m sorry I’m so sorry”

Phoebe sniffed “is ok”

“No baby its not it’s far from ok” Prue gently drew her sister closer, “I love you Phoebe, I love you so much”

Tears were streaming down both sisters faces, this was a huge step forward but they both knew there was still a long way to go to restore their relationship but for now Prue was content to hold her baby, and her baby was content to be held.

As Prue held the little girl in her arms, her feelings were all over the place, first relief that Phoebe had let her back in, secondly and probably most strong was the feeling of guilt. She couldn’t get it out of her head all the times she’d vented her anger and pent up rage on her little sister. She kissed Phoebe on the top of her head, her voice almost a whisper “I’m sorry, I’m so sorry”

Phoebe didn’t say anything but Prue could see the pain and confusion still evident in her eyes.

Phoebe continued to follow her instincts, she closed her eyes and lay her head against her big sisters shoulder, for the first time in months she felt safe, she’d missed this Prue, she’d missed the sister who could make things right, the sister who kissed her better when she hurt, the sister who gave her great big bear hugs just because she wanted to, the sister who protected and cared for her. An involuntary tear ran down the little girls face, she’d missed this so much.

Prue closed her eyes and gently cradled the little girl she loved with all her heart, the little girl she’d hurt so badly.

++++++++++++++++

The sound of the door closing told Prue her other sister was home, Piper peered cautiously around the corner a slight smile on her face when she spotted her sisters.

“She asleep?”

Prue nodded “Has been for the past hour or so”

“Poor lamb, do you want me to take her up?”

Prue shook her head “She’s fine”

“You worked things out then?”

“As much as we could”

“Meaning?”

“I don’t know Pipe; it’s not that simple is it. I can’t do what I did, say sorry then expect everything to be alright again”

“It’s Phoebe we’re talking about, she’s got a massive heart Prue, trust her”

“Anyway, what have you been up to?”

“Subject changer”

Prue grinned “So?”

“I’ve been to see a few people, I had a quick chat to the school counselor, you’ve got an appointment on Monday”

“No”

“No?!”

“Piper I can’t just start telling all my inner feelings to some stranger”

“Don’t even go there Prue!” Piper’s voice had an edge to it “If you think for one minute this is over you can think again! You need help, and like it or not you’re going to get it!”

“But”

“No buts! Forget it Prue you honestly think I’m going to sit back and let this go. This is serious”

“I know that, but it’s a one off it’ll never happen again”

Piper shook her head in annoyance “Give her to me, I’m taking her to bed then we can talk about this properly”

Prue bit on the inside of her mouth this was a side of Piper that didn’t come out often but when it did………….

“Right! Let’s get some things straight” Piper had quickly tucked the youngest Halliwell in and had come back down for round two. “First of all – there is no way on this earth I would ever trust you with her again if you didn’t get professional help.”

“You left us today”

“Oh for god’s sake! You’re full of it!” Piper was really pissed now “At the moment you’re on one huge guilt trip I know you wouldn’t hurt her but what happens when that wears off and it all kicks in again”

“It won’t, I promise”

“Yeah? That’s what people who batter their wives say, I’m sorry, I’m so sorry I don’t know what came over me blah! Blah! Blah!”

“What?!” Now it was Prue’s turn to be pissed “You think I’m as bad as that?”

“Prue get real!! You kicked the crap out our baby sister! You’ve been building up to this for months it doesn’t just go away!”

Prue held her head in her hands she knew Piper was right but she didn’t want to admit it.

“Prue that kids scared stiff of you, you need to put your money where your mouth is you told her you’d get help now dam well get it!”

Prue met her sisters gaze, she could see the genuine concern in her younger sisters eyes she gave a slight nod.

“So is that a yes?”

Prue’s mouth was set in a tight line “yes”

“Good…..now the other thing you need to do”

“Piper!”

“Don’t Piper me! I haven’t finished yet! I’ve made an appointment at the Doctors”

“What! Why?”

“I don’t believe you! Jesus Prue! You need to tell him what happened it’s obviously stress related maybe he can offer some suggestions on how to get it under control”

The silence was deafening as Prue considered her sisters words.

“It’s not up for debate, you owe it to Phoebe, you owe it to yourself”

“I’ll go”

Piper gazed at her big sister “I know you don’t like it Prue but it’s got to be done, I’ve got to look after Phoebe”

Prue nodded as the tears started again – she felt so useless, so out of control, Piper melted, her big sister looked utterly defeated she put an arm around her shoulders and drew her near, “And you” Piper kissed her sisters forehead “I’ve got to look out for you”.

“I know, you’re right”

“When will you learn I’m always right” Piper grinned at Prue in an effort to lighten the mood.

“I’m beginning to believe that” Prue smiled back “I love you Piper”

Piper nodded the emotion starting to get to her “I know you do, and I love you”

Phoebe waited anxiously for Prue to come and pick her up from school, things had been better these last few weeks. Prue had done what she’d promised, she’d got some help, even so Phoebe couldn’t help but worry. Things had been alright before and then everything had gone bad. Phoebe no longer felt secure; she’d often wake up in the middle of the night scared and anxious. Previously she would have gone to Prue but now she’d sneak into bed with Piper, she couldn’t help it the image of her angry sister refused to fade.

As soon as Prue rounded the corner she could tell Phoebe was worried, she stood for a moment and watched her little sister, she looked agitated, she was wringing her hands and taping her foot. Prue knew from previous experience this was not a particularly good sign.

“Hey! You ready?”

Phoebe nodded quickly and picked up her bag.

“Want me to carry that? It looks heavy” Prue had been really trying to win back Phoebes trust, she wanted her little sister to feel safe and cared for but she knew it would take time. The therapist had said to take it slow, small things first then see how it went. It was easier said than done, Prue Halliwell was not one to take things slow and she was getting frustrated at the apparent lack of progress. She knew Phoebe was trying but she also knew Phoebe couldn’t help being scared.

Prue frowned “Give it here”

“It’s ok”

Prue put her hand out and took the bag “What’s up with you? Normally you moan and groan if you have to carry heavy bags”

“Nothing”

“Pheebes?”

Prue stopped for a minute she heaved Phoebe’s bag onto her left shoulder and reached out for her sister’s hand.

Prue watched as Phoebe hesitated slightly then took the offered hand.

“You going to tell me what’s up”

“What makes you think something’s up?” it was Phoebes turn to frown.

“Big sister intuition” Prue grinned “Thought you knew that by now, I know everything”

“Ugh hmmm”

Prue raised her eyebrows Phoebe was definitely hiding something.

“Can I tell Piper first?”

Prue felt something akin to a pain in the middle of her chest “Sure”, she knew it was a lot to expect but she couldn’t help but feel hurt at her little sisters rejection, she took a deep breath and decided to change the subject; it was then that Prue noticed Andy running towards her.

“Hey babe!”

Prue gave her boyfriend a half smile, things between them had been even more strained lately, she was starting to see him in a different light. She bit on her lip as she remembered the conversation where he’d had the arrogance to tell her he had forgiven her for what happened at Jodie’s party.

Andy leaned in and planted a kiss on her cheek “How about we catch a movie later, you know” he motioned with his head at Phoebe “Have some fun, just the two of us”

Prue let out a deep breath “I can’t. You know I can’t. You know I’ve been instructed to take things easy, I’ve got enough on with finals and the girls”

“Phoebe take a walk” Andy didn’t even bother looking in Phoebe’s direction.

“No Phoebe” Prue tightened her grip on her little sisters hand and turned her attention to Andy “If anybody’s taking a walk it’ll be you”

Prue suddenly felt calm, she watched as Andy took a deep breath she couldn’t help but think how predictable this was becoming he made no effort to hide his anger.

"Dam it Prue – what the hell is that supposed to mean?!”

Prue suppressed a smile – what else could it mean!

“You're always so dam busy - busy that is with everything and everybody but me!"

It was Prue’s turn to take a deep breath she was getting bored with this! "Oh for gods sake Andy change the record"

"Change the record! I've put up with this long enough – it’s always about your crappy job, your sisters or your studies what about me where do I come in? I thought things would be better once the job went”

"I'm sick of this Andy – do you really think I gave up my job just to see more of you? You know how things have been! I've been almost dead on my feet some nights but I still made the effort to see you"

"Nice oh yeah real nice - didn't realise I was such a chore!"

"You know what I mean!"

"Yeah I know all right - what's first with you Prue come on what's the order - is it college, job, study, sisters - me come on tell me!"

"You've pushed me too much Andy - for god's sake I've hurt Phoebe because of the pressure I’ve been put under - I practically half killed the poor kid now you're still not content you want more!"

"Don't lay Phoebe on me!"

"Why not! You were the one always nagging always pressuring me - can't she look after herself? Can’t she make her own way home? Can’t she get her own dinner? It’s all ME! ME! ME! ME! ME! …………….you're nothing but a selfish arrogant pig!" Prue took a deep breath "The answer is no she dam well can't and even if she could she shouldn't. I really lost it for a bit I blamed her for everything - well guess what - she's the child in all this but she's not the big kid - that would be you!" Prue was on a roll all her anger and frustration began to pour out "I've put her second for too long - she thinks she's a pain in my ass well guess what Andy she's not you are! She's only a baby but she's gone out of her way to give me space! …………What do you do? - You dam well fill it and more - you're still not satisfied! Well guess what Andy……………….. My world does not, can not and never will revolve round you!"

"Well I guess I know where I stand!"

"Yeah - and that list - Phoebe 1st 2nd and 3rd! - Everything else can and should look after itself including you!"

Prue stood for a few moments and watched the retreating back of her ex it was then that she felt the slight pull on her hand, she let out a low groan, she’d actually got so wrapped up in the argument she’d forgotten about Phoebe! Lowering her gaze she felt like kicking herself Phoebe looked pale her eyes were brimming with tears.

“It’s ok” Prue dropped the bag and knelt down in front of her little sister, she tried to lighten the atmosphere “I can do better” Phoebe still looked upset as Prue reached out and pulled her little sister near “No? You don’t think I can?”

“I’m sorry Prue”

“Hey! Now you can stop right there! You’ve got nothing to be sorry for!”

Two big tears rolled slowly down the little girls face, Prue picked her little sister up and hugged her tight.

“Nothing at all babe, nothing at all.”

“I’m so sorry” Phoebe was repeating the words over and over as Prue rocked her.

“You’ve done nothing to be sorry for”

“I havvvveeeee” Phoebe was getting more and more upset.

“Baby you haven’t I promise you you haven’t”

“You’ll be so mad, I’m so sorry, I’m oh so sorry”

“Phoebe talk to me” Prue pulled back so she could see her little sisters face she gently rubbed away some of the tears.

She watched as Phoebe tried to control her breathing, it gradually dawned on Prue what the problem could be.

“Are you frightened?”

Phoebe let out a sob as she stared back at her big sister.

“Oh baby!” Prue rocked from one foot to the other just as she had done many times before “Don’t be frightened, I’m sorry if I’ve made you scared”

Phoebe was still sobbing.

Prue moved across to a bench and sat down with her young sister straddling her lap.

“Talk to me honey, just talk to me…………….I promise not to shout, I promise to stay calm” it was Prue’s turn to hesitate she hated to acknowledge the extent of what she’d done “I promise I won’t smack you”.

Prue watched as Phoebe lowered her head.

“Hey! None of that! Look at me Pheebes come on…………you can see I’m calm, it’ll be ok I promise”

Prue watched her little sister, she could see the signs she knew it wouldn’t be long before she began to open up.

“That wasn’t right Prue”

Prue’s eyebrows shot up, this wasn’t the opening she’d expected.

“Andy’s right you should put him first”

“Phoebe Andy’s a lot of things but right isn’t one of them”

Prue smiled as she watched the grin cut through the tear stained face.

“But………I….” Phoebe took a deep breath “Piper was saying how hard it’s been you know for you”

Prue resisted the temptation to interrupt and question she let her little sister ramble on.

“You know, like with the house and us and school and your job and friends and Andy and well………………I didn’t think…………..I didn’t know, I heard you the other night crying”

Prue felt the tears brimming in her eyes as she listened to the upset child trying desperately to put her thoughts and deepest feelings into words. Never easy at any time Prue knew it must be particularly hard for a ten year old to make sense of everything that had been going on.

“I, I should have helped you more I should have done more stuff. And I never said anything and I, well you’re not my Mum and you do so much and I never say nothing”

“Anything” the correction came automatically.

“Anything. But I well I’m sorry and now you’ve gone and put me before Andy and you don’t even know …………….” Phoebe’s voice trailed off.

“Know what?” Prue felt her little sister squirm “Is this what you were worried about when I met you?”

Phoebe nodded.

“Well tell me. I’m sure it’s not as bad as you think”

Phoebe sniffed the tears once more ready to fall, Prue watched as her little sisters lip trembled her mouth moved and no words came out.

“Deep breaths” Prue gently rubbed the distraught child’s back.

“I got a note”

“Go on”

“I…….I” Phoebe faltered “I didn’t mean it”

“Just tell me”

“I got sent to the corner”

“Why?”

“Not listening”

Prue fought the urge to respond, once again she allowed her sister to continue.

“I couldn’t help it……… I” Phoebe burst into tears.

“What?”

“I keep thinking about you and I miss Grams and I’m” Phoebe frowned and closed her mouth tight.

“Carry on”

“I’m scared” Phoebe’s voice was low.

Prue didn’t respond for a moment she knew she had to pick her words carefully, this was the first time that Phoebe had really opened up, the note from school was paling into insignificance.

“I know you are” Prue pulled her little sister even closer “And I don’t blame you. All I can do Phoebe is tell you how I feel. How much I hate myself for what happened, for what I did” Prue paused “There is no one else to blame Phoebe, I did it. I was the one who lost it, I was the one who hurt you, its nobody else’s fault but mine”

Phoebe looked up into the deep blue eyes of her sister; she could see the pain the emotion.

“I lost it Phoebe, I lost it big time. The most important thing in my life is my two little sisters, I lost sight of that I let everyone down, you, Piper, Mum, Grams, myself” Prue’s voice had gradually become more and more emotional “I……I” Prue was beginning to sound like her little sister “You said you heard me crying”

Phoebe’s eyes went wide, she had thought it a mistake to say that, as soon as the words had left her mouth she regretted it; she knew Prue would hate for her little sisters to know that she’d been crying.

“Do you know I cry every single night?”

Phoebe shook her head the tears once again threatening to fall.

“It was unforgivable Phoebe, unforgivable. I will never be able to forgive myself” Prue felt the slow tears trickling down her face then she felt the kiss land on her right cheek.

“I can. I can forgive you”

Prue smiled through her tears as she hugged the little girl tight “I love you, oh you have no idea how much I love you!”

Phoebe smiled at her big sister “I love you”

The sisters sat in silence for a few minutes eventually Prue felt Phoebe move on her lap

“What about the note?”

“What about it?”

“Well it’s not exactly for not paying attention”

Prue suppressed the smile, this was more like it, this was the little girl she knew and loved.

“So what was it for?”

“Well…………….the kids were laughing, coz I was in the corner like a baby”

“So?”

“So I tipped the fish tank over Tommy Banks head”

“Oh god! Phoebe!” Prue rubbed her hand over her face

“So what are you going to do?”

“How about I go in and explain why you’ve been so distracted lately, that might get the teachers off your back”

Phoebe’s eyebrows shot up “What else?”

Prue suppressed a smirk “Was there any fish in it?”

Phoebe nodded “Two, one of them went down Tommy’s shirt”

Prue put her hand over her mouth as Phoebe continued “He was bawling like a baby, and the teacher pulled his shirt off so she could get the fish. One of the other boys had filled a bucket but he slipped on the wet floor and it went all over the teacher”.

“Oh Jeez!” Prue couldn’t help it she felt her mouth twitching

“She just stood there like she couldn’t speak or something, then she started shouting at Bailey the boy with the bucket”

Prue let out a little snigger

“She thought he’d done it on purpose, her face was bright red” the seriousness of Phoebe’s voice was making it even more difficult for Prue to control her laughter.

Phoebe felt Pries shoulders shake “Prue?”

Prue couldn’t hold it back any longer her laughter was released, Phoebe sat stunned for a moment and stared at her big sister, tears were pouring down Prue’s face this time they were tears of laughter “Did they……did they……did they” Prue couldn’t get her words out “Save……save the……………..FISH” Once again Prue was off this time her laughter was joined by that of her little sister.

“Yes! This is the best part…………..” Phoebe was nearly as bad as Prue, “One of the girls had already saved them! They were swimming around quite happily in the sink!”

It took a while for the sisters to regain their composure the release had been a long time coming; Prue planted a kiss on top of her baby sisters head “I’ve missed this babe!”

Phoebe snuggled in “Me too!”

++++++++++++

“I can’t believe you just sat there and laughed!” Piper sounded incredulous, Phoebe had been in bed for a few hours and Prue was recounting the tale.

“What else could I do?” Prue was smiling at the expression on Pipers face.

“Oh I don’t know! Tell her off…..ground her……take away her stuff!”

Prue pulled Piper in for a hug “I hear you Piper, but it wouldn’t be right, not this time, she got into trouble because of everything that’s gone on, she knows she did wrong” Prue paused “she knows its not acceptable to tip a fish tank over another child’s head” As Prue finished the words she burst out laughing again “Anyway teach that Tommy Banks to laugh at my little sister! And serves the teacher right for picking on her in the first place!”

“Picking on her!”

“Well she didn’t do anything to find out why Pheebes wasn’t concentrating!”

“Ughhh Prue! You know as well as I do if it wasn’t one thing it would be another she never can keep her mind focused”

“I know, Piper relax, I’ve got it. I’m going to see the teacher tomorrow and I’ve talked to Phoebe it alright”

Piper looked at her big sister and grinned “Welcome back!”

+++++++++++++++++++

It was a few hours later that the creaking floorboard alerted the eldest Halliwell that she had a visitor, she felt the slight dip in the bed and the shift of the duvet.

Prue could hear Phoebe trying not to breath she was doing her best not to disturb her big sister.

“So you can be quiet” Prue whispered as she reached over and pulled her little sister close, she felt Phoebe snuggle in.

“Love you Prue”

“Love you too honey”

Prue smiled in the darkness – it was good to be back.



THE END