In the two weeks that I had been back here in San Francisco, back here with my love, a lot had happened. Once again, I was starting over with a new life, which meant I had to find a new job. I wanted to do something worthwhile, something I would enjoy. I wanted a job that I would be happy to get up and go to every morning. It was by pure chance that I'd come across this particular position. I had been out running some errands, and while patiently waiting in line at the market, I started chatting with the guy in front of me. It turned out that he was a social worker than ran a local drop in centre for kids and teens. He mentioned how busy he was getting, the centre was a real success. He had requested extra funding from the state department, and had just found out that morning that it had been granted. He wanted to find someone to help him run it.

I had rushed home after chatting with him, more excited than I had ever been about a job. I couldn't wait to tell Piper. I rushed through the house looking for her, and finally made my way up to her bedroom. I burst through the door without thinking, and found her standing by her closet in her bathrobe, and a towel wrapped around her head. I stopped short, surprised at what I saw, but at the same time, realising I may have stepped over a line. I quickly apologised and went outside, closing the door quickly behind me, and heading downstairs again.

I was sitting in the solarium when she came in, fully clothed this time, her wet hair hanging down her back..



I'm so sorry Piper. I wasn't thinking. I should have knocked. I felt as though any words I said were not enough. Nothing I could do would be enough. She sat down beside me on the loveseat, holding up a hand to stop me.

Leo, it's ok, you just surprised me. I'm not mad. I let the breath out that I'd been holding. She knew just what to say. She always did. Did you have something to tell me?

I explained what had happened that morning, meeting the social worker at the store, hearing all about the drop in centre. I told her how much I wanted to be able to help people again. Becoming mortal had put an immediate stop to that two years ago, but now that I was back here, I needed to find a job that would allow me to do that. I told all of this to Piper, and she was smiling back at me, sharing my enthusiasm.

So, what can I do to help you get this job? she asked.

Well, I don't have a resume. I was wondering if you could help me fix one up. It's been a long time since I interviewed for a job.

But what about when you were in Boston? Didn't you interview then?

No, I was working at a restaurant, bartending, waitering. I just walked in off the street when I saw a sign in the window. I had experience from the last time I was mortal, and working for you, so they hired me on the spot.

Ok, so we need to write down all the things you have experience in, and tell a few white lies.

What do you mean?

Well, you can still say you started med school, but we'll say you were there ten years ago, instead of sixty.

So we set to work, and a couple of hours later, it was looking great. She had a real talent for finding the best qualities in people, and presenting them in a manner that would make anyone believe them.

Needless to say, I went down to the drop in centre the next day, and came home, newly employed.

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March 29, 2003. 11:23am.

I was sitting in the living room, deep in thought when Phoebe walked in.

I know that face. What's up Leo?

Nothing, just thinking. I lied. She curled up in the chair opposite me, and stared at me, completely unconvinced.

Come on, out with it.

I was just thinking that I should probably start looking for an apartment. I know what Piper said, about not worrying about overstaying my welcome, but I am worried about crowding her, and you guys too. The sooner I'm out of your hair, the better.

Leo, stop it. You were completely gone from our lives for 2 years! You've been back all of two weeks now. There is no way that any of us, least of all Piper, is going to feel like getting you out of the house. We are all so happy to have you back! Piper hasn't smiled so much in all that time. I'm happy that she's getting back to her old self. I'm happy that you two are slowly working through things, and I know Prue would agree with me. Please don't feel like you should move out as soon as possible. To be honest, I think it would be better for you to stay here, make it easier to get to know Piper all over again.

Phoebe has such words of wisdom, for someone so young. Just then, Piper walked into the room, having just come downstairs.

Hey you two, she greeted us, coming to sit beside me. Whatcha doing?

Ohh nothin'. Phoebe replied, then checked her watch, Ohh, actually, I have got to get going. I have a lunch date. She jumped out of her chair and went to grab her bag.

See you later guys. I love you! she called before disappearing out the door.

I decided to take advantage of the time I had alone with Piper, and turned to face her.

Do you have plans for tomorrow night?

Nope, not a thing. I've taken to leaving the club to the assistant manager on Sundays and Mondays, so that's kind of my weekend these days. Why, do you want to do something?

I'd like to take you out for dinner. I replied hopefully. Tomorrow would have been our three year anniversary. I had been thinking about it all week, and had finally decided that I wanted to make it a day to remember again, rather than one to forget. I could see that Piper had realised the date herself, and looked back at me, a little surprised.

I want to make some more good memories with you. I explained further. At that, she smiled.

It's a date. What time should I be ready?

I'll make reservations at 7:30, so say about 7?

Sounds good.

It does, doesn't it? I replied, staring into her eyes. I paused a moment, and then moved to get up. Ok, well I have some things I need to take care of. I'll see you later?

I leant over and kissed her cheek. I was still wary of how intimate she would let me be. I was so worried that I would scare her. She caught my face in her hands, holding me close.

I do love you Leo, it's just.. it's hard. It's been so long. I want to let you near me, but I just need a little more time.

It's ok Piper, I understand. I'll wait for as long as it takes. Don't be afraid to tell me what you're feeling. She nodded in response, and briefly wrapped her arms around my neck.

she whispered in my ear. I pulled away, and brushed a strand of hair behind her ear.

You're welcome.