CHARMED "Secrets"
By J. B. Tilton email: Rating: G

Disclaimer: "Charmed" and all related characters and events are the property of the WB television network, except for those characters specifically created for this story. This is a work of fan fiction and no infringement of copyright is intended.

(Authors note: This story takes place between season 6 episodes "Soul Survivor" and "The Sword And The City".)

Piper's latest date since her breakup with Leo is with a man who may be hiding a secret of his own.

ONE

Piper breezed into the manor without a care in the world. Even though it was well after midnight she wasn't the least bit tired. The form-fitting dress she was wearing testified that she had not been out fighting warlocks or vanquishing demons or anything "work" related.

"Well, look who finally decided to grace us with her presence," said Phoebe as she and Paige came out of the kitchen, each holding a bowl of ice cream.

"Ice cream again?" Piper asked. "What's that, four night in a row? You two are going to become diabetics."

"So, how was your date?" Paige asked, ignoring her older sister's snide remark.

"It was wonderful," Piper said. "We had dinner at one of the better five star restaurants. Then we took a trolley car ride down Main Street. And he topped it off with a romantic boat cruise in the moonlight."

"How romantic?" Phoebe asked, smirking. "I noticed you aren't wearing a bra."

"This dress isn't exactly cut to accommodate a bra," Piper giggled. "But it was nothing like that. Darren is a perfect gentleman. He hasn't made even a single advance in the two dates we've had."

"He's probably gay," Paige giggled.

"He is not gay," Piper said, mock anger in her voice. "He just wants to take it slow. And so do I. After the last few fiascos I've had I want to make sure he isn't going to get spooked."

"You mean by Wyatt orbing his eyes?" Paige asked. "By the way, have you told him about Wyatt yet?"

"No," Piper said. "I told you. I'm not telling anyone about him until after the honeymoon."

"I'm pretty sure that's something most men would want to know before they say 'I do'," Phoebe smirked.

"Well, maybe not the honeymoon," Piper said. "But I want to make sure he's comfortable with the idea before I say anything. For a while there I thought there was something wrong with me."

"Well, this Derwood sounds like a perfectly charming fellow," Phoebe said, a slight laugh in her voice.

"Darren," Piper said. "His name is Darren."

"I know," Phoebe said. "It's just that whenever I hear his name I'm reminded of the old 'Bewitched' reruns on television. Endora always insisted on mispronouncing Darren's name. Actually, it's kind of fun."

"Well, stop it," Piper said. "Like I said, Darren is a perfect gentleman. We have another date tomorrow night."

"So soon?" Paige questioned. "I thought you were taking it slow?"

"It's just a date," Piper protested.

"Yeah," Phoebe said, "the third one in five days. That's not exactly slow."

"Listen," Piper said, "I know I'm seeing a lot of Darren. But there are no demons attacking right now and I'd like to enjoy myself a little if you don't mind. Of course, that means I'm going to need a babysitter again tomorrow night."

"Don't worry about it," Paige said. "We're just having a little fun with you. Actually, it's nice to see you acting like a normal person for a change. And I for one have no problems with babysitting my nephew."

"Hey, you're not alone," Phoebe said. "I love it just as much as you do."

"What about Richard?" Piper asked. "Isn't he upset you're spending so much time at the manor instead of with him?"

"Oh, we see plenty of each other," Paige said coyly.

"No wonder you don't mind me watching Wyatt for a good part of the evening," Phoebe said. "You've been orbing over to his place."

"Guilty," Paige said. "Why should Piper have all the fun?"

"That just gives me more time with my nephew," Phoebe said.

"Well, it's late," said Piper. "And I should really spend some time at the club tomorrow before my date with Darren. Think I'll go to bed."

"Good night, sweetie," Phoebe said, kissing Piper on the cheek. "I really am glad you found someone you like. Just don't wait too long before you introduce us to him."

"In time," Piper said as she headed for her room. "In time."