A/N: So this is really short…I don't really know how this came into existence, I just sort of found it hidden on my computer. I guess I wrote it, like, a year ago. At least I hope I wrote it and I'm not stealing someone elses story….*Gulp*
The Family Tree Test
"So why are we doing this again?"
Elle let out an impatient sigh, fixing Claire with a steely glare.
"I already explained this, I don't understand what part of this you don't get," she said, giving Claire the patented "why are you such a moron" look.
Claire fixed Elle with a glare of her own, angry at Elle's patronizing tone. "Because it's ridiculous. And stupid. And completely unnecessary. Did I mention ridiculous?"
"It's not ridiculous or stupid or unnecessary. In fact, it's sensible, smart, and necessary. I mean, okay I sort of understand that you think it is a waste of time, but I'm not dating you until we do it," Elle said in unwavering voice.
"So you do this with everyone you date then?" Claire asked, challenge in her eyes.
"Nope," Elle piped up happily, "just you…although, I don't really date that many people."
"That's besides the point," Claire growled, before taking a deep calming breath, "Okay, fine, I know you've already explained this, but one more time…why do we need to go over my family tree."
"Weeeeellll," Elle started, drawing out the word, "for the sixth time, I just one to make sure that we are absolutely, positively not in any way related to each other. The Petrelli family tree is more like a jungle and I never had any reason to really fine-tooth-comb it, but could you imagine how awful it could end up…" Elle trailed off as a far away gaze appeared on her face.
She softly continued, "Just imagine if you were dating somebody and were sure that they were going to be the one you spent the rest of your life, that was how much you loved them. You were so close that that person's sibling was your best friend and you were ready to take that final physical step. Then some horrible, sneering relative just tells you, 'guess what, she's your half-sibling.' How horrible would that be… and the break up, it would hurt her as much as it hurt you, so you just cut all ties, breaking up with her without ever talking. Painful, but necessary… and then even worse, what if you somehow took that final step, possibly because of liberal alcohol and moderate GHB…or something like that," she finished with a start, blinking rapidly.
"That's why we have to make sure none of that is a possibility, got it."
And Claire finally relented with a sigh. "Whatever, bring out the family tree."
Elle grinned.