General disclaimers can be found in the first chapter
Mackenzie is perched on a stool, pulled up to the kitchen island in Duncan's kitchen, eating a snack while Adam Pearson, a slim built unassuming young graduate student – who as it would happen to be a Watcher and the mysterious infamous immortal Methos, raids Duncan's fridge for another beer.
"I cannot believe that the school year is starting up again." His comment is more to the open fridge than to her, "and a brand spanking new batch of freshmen to boot." He cringes as he victoriously plucks a bottle from the shelf. Allowing the door to close on its own, he snaps the top and takes a swig.
"And that would be me," Mackenzie says with a smile.
"Oh right! I nearly forgot. You've always been so mature for your age." He amends.
"Thanks. Are you still going to be able to continue helping me with my ancient languages?" she inquires, tilting her head.
"Yes, of course, you know I well." He sits on the vacant stool beside her as Duncan enters the kitchen.
"So is it safe to assume that things between the two of you are okay?" he inquires, placing the paper bag of groceries on the counter and begins the process of putting things away.
"That was just an isolated incident," Mackenzie states innocently, biting into her apple.
"Yeah, Mac. A misunderstanding is all." Methos rolls his eyes. "I had no idea that she was associated with you. Had I known, I would never have thought to take her head."
"You and the whole behead first, and ask questions later philosophy." Duncan snorts while he closes the cupboard. "You had to have noticed how faint the energy signature level was. And still is."
"You can never be too careful," Methos interjects.
"He's right Mac." She interjects, defending her overcautious friend. "I mean, he didn't get to be what? Nearly five thousand and change without being careful." She adds and puts the apple core into the receptacle.
"So have you and that stuffy Englishman gone out on a proper date yet?" Methos inquires, changing the subject.
"Hey!" she squeaks.
"Mac's right then. There is something going on between the two of you." Mackenzie rolls her eyes in response.
"Not between us exactly." She adds and allows her manicured eyebrows to furrow slightly. "Besides, we never have a chance to be 'alone', if you will. Buffy, Willow, and Xander hang out at the library." She says with a quick glance at her watch, realising that the day has quickly slipped away. "I suppose that I had better get going. I have to hit the bookstore and purchase my books for this semester." She smiles brightly and makes her way towards Duncan, hugging him goodbye quickly.
"Don't I get a hug?" Methos puts on his best wounded expression, adding a solid pout for good measure. Mackenzie fake rolls her eyes and heads over to him and gives him a tight squeeze.
"Enjoy your bit of freedom before school starts." He whispers in her ear. Pulling away from him, she nods her thanks.
"I'll meet you tonight for training?"
"Yes, of course," Duncan replies casually as he leans against the island and watches as she enters the elevator. She pulls down the heavy metal cage door and presses the button. With a wave, she is slowly lowered to the first floor.
Makenzie can hardly believe the speed with which fall has flown by. Between the brief Thanksgiving break, her Watcher research position, exams, mid-terms, essays, and other assignments- Christmas is on her doorstep. Usually, she waits for the network to broadcast the Santa Claus Parade before officially putting up her tree, but for the oddest reason, in her flurry of busyness, she somehow managed to spend ample time in the Sunnydale High library helping with research on the upcoming ascension—she just happened on it. A quiet moment reading for class is interrupted by the telephone ringing.
"Holy cow!" startled, Mackenzie exclaims to the empty room, as she jumps off the couch running to the telephone.
"Hello."
"Hello, sweetie." Her mother's voice sounds wonderful in her ears. "Are you gearing up to put up the tree?"
"What day is it?"
"Is this a trick question?"
"Humour me." She replies waiting for the answer.
"Friday. Do you need me to be any more specific than that?"
"Oh no!" Mackenzie exclaims. "The parade was Sunday! I haven't started shopping, I have to bake, I haven't decorated. And to top it off, I still have to maintain my other obligations. And…" she trails off, not wanting to add that she has been overly preoccupied with thoughts about asking a certain Watcher out on a date.
"Kenzie, calm down." She can hear the smile in her mother's tone. "It's not the end of the world." She adds. Mackenzie takes a deep breath and almost finds herself laughing at herself for being so irrational.
"And what, dear?" her mother prompts, letting her know that she isn't letting her off the hook as easily as she thinks.
"Um, never mind mom. I did pack my tree right?" she inquires.
"Yes, of course, sweetheart. We put it in the basement along with the decorations. I also think I added your box and bags of wrapping paper, cards, tape, ribbons, and whatnot." She could picture her mother shaking her head a bit.
"Thanks, mom. It just wouldn't be the same without a tree, or decorations, or everything." Mackenzie looks at the television once more, only to see another advertisement. "Wow! We hardly get through Veterans Day and they're already pushing the season." She comments.
"When will you be home for the holidays?" her mother inquires.
"I have a few mid-terms to deal with. I think I'll be done by the eleventh."
"Are you planning on coming home with your car? Or will you be grabbing a ride with Joe?" her mother asks, trying to work out the plans for the visit.
"I haven't quite worked out the details of transportation as yet. Is Duncan coming along too? I mean, he doesn't really have anyone." She adds with a bit of a frown, recalling how happy he had been when he was in Paris with Tessa— her passing in a freak attempted robbery gone terribly wrong resulted in Duncan's moving to Seacouver in an attempt to move on with his life without the love of his. Richie happened to follow him as well as her uncle Joe, Duncan's Watcher.
"He knows he's more than welcome. Invite him, the more the merrier." Her mother adds happy to potentially have a full house for the holidays.
"I'll be sure to ask him then. I guess I'll talk to Uncle Joe and see what his plans are to settle the transportation. Perhaps I'll drive and they can come along with me, or we'll bring the extra car so they can do what they please while they visit." She muses aloud.
"Well, regardless of those details. I can't wait to see you." Her mother's enthusiasm is contagious and Mackenzie cannot wait to get her tree up.
"So are you watching the parade?" she inquires.
"Always, and as per tradition— with a cup of hot chocolate and homemade oatmeal raisin spice cookies." She replies and takes another sip. "But it's not the same without you."
"I love you too mom. I better not keep you. I'm going to decorate." Mackenzie says happily.
"Love you too sweetie. I'll talk to you soon."
"Sounds like a great plan," Mackenzie replies, "goodbye."
"Bye." Her mother says as she cradles the phone and snuggles further into the sofa with a soft blanket. Mackenzie takes a moment to cradle the telephone. Once she does, she looks about the space and decides that the tree has to go in the window. So she pulls the vacuum from the hall closet and sets about pulling the sofa away from the window— quickly vacuuming the exposed space and then placing it aside, knowing that she will be using it again once the tree is up— seeing that no matter how careful she is, she can never undo the boughs without the synthetic needles flaking off the flexible metal structure.
Wandering downstairs to the basement, Mackenzie easily locates the carefully labelled and stored boxes. Fantastic, she allows the grin that tugs at the corners of her mouth to form a full-fledged smile as she picks up the heaviest box, containing the pre-lit tree. Slugging the box upstairs and placing it in the living room, she goes back down to the basement for the rest of the decorations. She makes her way back up with the box and begins opening the first of the boxes, revealing the tree in three large pieces along with the sturdy stand. Carefully, so as not to break the pieces, she lifts the bottom piece from the box and sets it aside. Once she has the base setup, she carefully slips the metal pole into the awaiting stand, centred within the large window— she begins working on carefully opening the boughs and positioning them in such a manner that the tree appears natural and full.
Once the first sections appear the way she wants it, she turns towards the box and pulls the next piece out— this piece contains the chords, so she plugs them into each other and then plugs the lead in to check the lights. Then she adds the blinkers, waiting for the graceful flickering to begin. Great, she muses happily, they all work! I don't have to try and find the burnt out ones and replace them this year. Her smile widens as she finishes positioning the second section. Finally, she removes the treetop from the box and repeats the process. Once the tree appears the way she wants it, she turns towards another box labelled Christmas Decorations. She has always had her own tree, that way she could have the decorations that she wanted— it wasn't just that she didn't like her mother's taste in Christmas décor, rather she had always just loved having a tree in her room to enjoy.
Smiling at the memories as she pulls out the first box of delicate white and silver orbs then locates the hooks and begins threading the wires through awaiting wire hangers— she begins carefully and strategically placing the orbs on the tree. One box empty, she repeats the same process with the second. Realising that it was far too quiet for decorating, she looks further into the box for her Christmas CDs— it may still be considered early, but hey, one only has a finite time to enjoy Christmas music. Retrieving her Sarah McLachlan Wintersong CD, she places it into the CD player and presses play. As the quiet, soothing music fills her home, turning off the harsher lights, Mackenzie makes her way towards the kitchen to make of much-needed cup of tea. With a china mug in hand, she returns to the living room and tree decorating. Pulling another carefully packed box of decorations from the box, she begins re-hooking the ornaments before taking her time in placing them on the tree— making sure that all sides of the tree received ornaments, even the outside, as she knew she would want to draw the curtains and sheers open every now and then and if would look rather odd to see a Christmas tree in one's window have one side totally lacking in décor cheer. The tree starts to really take shape and she dims the lights in the room to get a better perspective.
Satisfied with her handy work, she returns to the box and retrieves the angel that will take her place at the treetop. Carefully, she places the angel and finds the plugs so that the small white lights that she holds and under her dress light up. Stepping back, Mackenzie admires her tree and lets her satisfied smile tugging at the corner of her lips win.
"Perfect." She voices her thoughts and quickly begins the process of cleaning the empty boxes and taking them back down to the basement. Once she returns, she quickly grabs the vacuum and runs it over the rug to pick up the plastic needles that did manage to fall from the metal boughs during her gently placing them where they would remain for the holiday. She places the vacuum back in the closet than sets about rearranging the furniture in the room so that the tree assumes the focal point of the room rather than the television. The music has stopped and she pulls a new CD from the binder, pops it into the CD player and presses play.
It's a wonderful moment, Christmas music in the background, another mug of steaming tea between her hands while sitting herself on the sofa Mackenzie sighs contently as she allows herself to sink in. No need to think of school, training, work, or researching. This moment is for her and she intends to just sit and watch as the lights twinkle on and off in the dimly lit room. Finally hearing a gentle tap on her front door, she glances quickly at the time and contemplates whether or not she ought to open the door. Maybe whoever it is will go away, she thinks to herself as she hears the tapping increases not only in rhythm but intensity. Fine! Her mind screams as she sighs and leans forward, placing her mug on the coffee table before rising to her feet. This better be good, she muses as she pads towards the front door and carefully checks the peephole to be sure that she actually knows whose on the other side of the door. Giles lifts his hand to his head and runs his fingers through his hair in frustration before bringing his knuckles to the door once more.
She opens the door just before his knuckles make contact.
"Good evening." She tilts her head quizzically. "At this hour, I trust this isn't a social call?" the addition causes him to shake his head. Damn! She steps aside to allow him into her home.
"Lovely tree." He comments causally as they head towards the living room.
"Thank you. Um, may I get you something? Coffee? Tea?" she inquires in an attempt to avoid the reason for his visit.
"No, thank you. I'm fine." He replies and pauses as he hitches his pants and sits on the sofa, Mackenzie follows sinking into an awaiting leather armchair. "Were you able to speak with your contact with regards to the upcoming ascension?"
"I have. I also forwarded the texts that you asked me to translate. Before I spoke to you about it, I wanted to be sure that my translation was correct. I wouldn't want to worry you about something big— if, in fact, it isn't a big deal." She shakes her head, places her hands on her thighs and rises. Stalking towards the fireplace, she turns off the background music and sighs loudly.
"So in your line of work, you don't get time off?" she turns back towards Giles, who has sat himself back on the sofa and now rests his left ankle on his right knee— she watches as he removes his glasses and twists them absently between his finger and thumb in thought and shakes his head.
"Afraid not." He replies, plucking his trusty handkerchief from his pocket, he quickly runs it over his lenses and returns them to their proper place on the bridge of his nose. She smiles at his actions and wonders if it's something he does on a regular basis, or just when he's nervous.
"That sucks almost as much as midterms." She comments under her breath.
"I suppose you'll be going home to your family for the holidays?" he inquires quickly changing the subject. She absently plays with a thread on her cardigan. She looks up at him before answering.
"My mother loves the holidays and insisted that I return home. Joe and Duncan will be joining us as well." She replies before stopping herself.
"I'm so sorry, how utterly insensitive of me." His expression changes to one of confusion.
"Insensitive?"
"Well, here you are in Sunnydale, away from home, your family, and here I go on about going home to visit mine." She twists her slender fingers that rest upon her lap.
"I've been in Sunnydale for three years now. Buffy and her friends have become like a family to me. We share a few, albeit odd, holiday traditions of our own." He smiles at the memories of holidays past, dinners at Buffy's with Buffy's mother Joyce, Xander and Willow and his lips turn up in a crooked smile. She finds that she likes it when he smiles— the smile not only plays with his lips but his eyes as well.
"I guess I hadn't thought about that." She muses and smiles in relief of his easy diffusion of her sudden discomfort. "I should have the translation for you in a couple of days. Adam said that he would go over it— in other words; he'll go over it as well as check my translation at the same time." She rolls her eyes.
"You do realise that the text is in ancient Sumerian?"
"Yes, of course." She replies.
"And how would you?" she smiles and lifts a hand to stop him.
"Let's just say that having a broad base of languages at one's fingertips is incredibly helpful when examining Watcher journals and primary source material written by the immortals themselves." She replies.
"What other hidden talents do you have?"
"Wouldn't you like to know?" she winks, "are you sure you wouldn't like a cup of tea?" he quickly glances at his watch and suddenly wishes he could spend hours with her, a good cup of tea, and conversation. However, he has to get back to his flat as Buffy is expecting him to be there after her patrol.
"Perhaps a rain cheque?" he saw something in her hazel eyes that he wasn't quite sure he could place, but she recovers quickly and stands to usher him to the front door. "Enjoy your evening." He nearly has trouble stopping himself from hugging her.
"You too." She replies and wishes she had the nerve to reach out to him, but she catches herself just in time— instead, she opens the door and he silently steps out. She watches as he crosses the courtyard, strong strides and closes the door with a loud sigh. Stupid girl! She chastises herself, making her way back to the stereo and puts the music back on before plunking herself on the sofa, and picks up her textbook.
Another afternoon finds the gang congregated at what Xander jokingly refers to as their headquarters— the Sunnydale High School library.
"Giles, are you sure you don't mind keeping an eye on my place while I'm gone?" Mackenzie inquires as she pulls another book from the shelf.
"No, of course not." He replies casually, looking up from another thick, leather-bound volume. "Buffy and Willow should be here any minute." He adds with a quick glance up at the clock over the large café style double wooden doors.
"Which reminds me," she stands and quickly stretches before walking to her bag and retrieving a text and a handful of pages. "Here," she holds them out towards him. He glances up at her and receives the text and pages, "Your translation." She adds. He quickly skims through the pages and sighs.
"Just what we expected isn't it?" she merely nods her ascent.
"Sorry about that. I was hoping for kittens and puppies and cute little bunnies." She walks back to her seat and sinks into it to return to her research.
"Well, had thought my Sumerian was horrible. I've been so out of practice that I thought I had it totally wrong. Now I'm wishing I had been." He sighs and wonders how they're going to head off the ascension.
"I guess you couldn't just kill the mayor." She looks up at him and he shakes his head.
"That would make things easy." He pauses. "That's just one of the difficulties we face. Technically, he's a public figure." He removes his glasses to polish them quickly.
"I see where you're going with this. If he were to say disappear, or get dead— it definitely wouldn't go unnoticed." She closes the book in front of her just as Buffy and the Willow enter the library chatting about Christmas dinner.
"Oh hey Kenzie." Willow, the red haired girl says, noticing the brunette sitting across from Giles with a thick volume tightly closed untouched, and clearly forgotten sitting in front of her.
"Hey Willow." She replies. "Did you trim you hair?" Willow nods and smiles brightly as she takes a seat next to Giles and Buffy takes the vacant seat beside her.
"Anything useful in this mess?" she inquires as she dumps her knapsack on the floor at her feet.
"Well, Kenzie finished with the translation." He pauses in thought as he rises from his seat and begins pacing. "It's as we fear."
"Great, so the only thing we can do at this point is plan and train?" Buffy injects rolling her eyes. Everyone who knows her; knows her to be action girl and sitting around on her hands isn't helping her.
"Oh crap! I have to go!" Kenzie springs to her feet and collects her things. "I have to get packed. I'm sorry Giles for bailing." He smiles his understanding.
"Thanks again for taking care of my place whiles I'm away. Oh drats! I nearly forgot to give you the key." She quickly retrieves a key from her knapsack and places it into the palm of his hand. Her fingers gently brush his palm and she can feel a bit of heat radiating from his body. Trying not to blush, she straightens her shoulders and makes her way towards the double doors, narrowly missing a collision with Xander, who is entering the library.
"Have a wonderful holiday. Merry Christmas!" she calls over her shoulder and is out the door before any of them have the chance to reply.
"What's up with her?" Xander states as he dumps his bag on the checkout counter, casually makes his way to the vacant seat next to Willow, and gracelessly collapses into it. Giles sighs and scratches the back of his neck gently as he reviews Mackenzie's translation. How useful it would be to have her working with them full-time rather than on a part-time basis. Her linguistical knowledge would be a definite asset to the Watchers Council, he muses turning back to the conversation of Christmas weekend festivities— a conversation he only picks up bits and pieces of- as his mind, entirely fixated on a young college student and the moment, while far too brief and innocent, shared between them.
Buffy immediately notices his far-off gaze and rolls her eyes— seriously? She thinks to herself and wonders why he doesn't just do them all the favour and ask Mackenzie out.
"Earth to Giles?" she waves a hand in front of his face and he snaps out of it. "So we're on for this weekend right?" he merely nods absently.
"An evening full of Christmas specials as we can manage accompanied by popcorn and other junk food with lots and lots of sugar!" Xander announces and they all laugh as they get back to the research and homework. Giles remains relatively quiet for the rest of their time together, in fact he doesn't seem to share his findings and Buffy merely sits back and observes him silently.
"Don't forget dinner at my place." Buffy adds as they collect their various books, papers, laptops, and other possessions. "Giles, I'm going home to have dinner with my mom tonight. I'll patrol when the sunsets and head over to your place to check in. Okay?"
"Yes, of course Buffy. Need I remind you…"
"I'm always careful." She punctuates her statement with a long look, before turning on her heel and heading out the double doors into the lightly lit now empty halls of Sunnydale High.
The weekend quickly arrives and one by one, they arrive at Giles' flat, sleeping bag, overnight bag, and plastic bags bursting with what Giles cringes at Xander's reference as sugary goodness. They set themselves up in the living room— his television may not have been a big or flat screen, but it had long ago been decided that it hardly mattered, when in reality it was truly just spending the time together as the gang. Giles receives another bag and heads to the kitchen to figure out the best way to put out their provisions.
"Everyone bring money to order pizza?" Xander announces in between biting and chewing what Giles can only deduce to be Red Vines.
"Yup!" they reply as they set their sleeping bags in their designated places. Giles, of course would have the sofa, but for the beginning of the evening, they would all pile onto the sofa shoulder to shoulder and enjoy the corniness of Charlie Brown's Christmas, followed by Frosty the Snowman, then a film about Rudolf the Red nosed reindeer. The last film would be Giles' favourite and the 1939 black and white A Christmas Carol with Reginald Owen.
With the pizza ordered, snacks set on the coffee table in front of them— Giles sits back and watches the predictable films with a smile caressing his lips as he enjoys his time with his American family. The loud knock at the door interrupts his thoughts and he stands to get the door.
"Money for the pizza is on your desk," Xander says over his shoulder. Giles nods and picks up the money before opening the door.
"Thank you." He says as the pizza guy pulls the boxes of pizza from the insulated bag with a big grin. "Keep the change." He adds.
"Thanks mister." His face lights up with his reply. Giles smiles to himself as he closes the door and heads back to the kitchen to set the food up for them. He pulls two pieces for himself and sets them on a plate, picks a knife and fork from the cutlery drawer, then finds the napkins and makes sure to pick one up on his way out of the kitchen, the rest of the family not far behind.
Forgetting something to drink, Giles sets his plate on the coffee table with a quiet sigh and heads back to the kitchen and the heard plucking pieces of pizza from the boxes, grabbing napkins, and drinks from the fridge. Xander and Willow make their way back to the couch as he enters the gully kitchen and finds Buffy still trying to decide which type she wants.
"One of each might help." He suggests with a wink. Startled, she turns to face him.
"Yeah, I guess." She replies as she pulls a piece from one box, closes the lid and then a second piece from the other box. "Why didn't you invite Kenzie to join us?" she inquires quietly. The others wouldn't notice them, Watcher-Slayer time and all.
"She's leaving to visit her family for the holidays. I think she'll be back just before classes resume at the university." He replies just as quietly. Buffy immediately notices an odd look that clouds over his emerald eyes— Not that she spent a great deal of time looking into his eyes, but it suddenly occurs to her that their hue tended to depend on his mood, or the way the light would play with them. In which case, they might shift from the lightest of emerald towards a deep, rich jade tone.
"Oh, I see." Appearing satisfied with his answer Buffy picks up her plate, a napkin and grabs a can of diet Dr. Pepper. Giles lets her scoot by and opens the fridge to see about a can of Ginger Ale.
The week before Christmas Eve flew by, everyone busy with getting ready— buying last minute gifts, planning social events to attend or host, and revising menus. Buffy, in fact sat at the dining room table with her mother discussing their menu, the table setting, seating plan, and inevitable slumber party— complete with more junk food then the grocery store could accommodate. Willow made sure that all her homework was completed, so she would have time to read the mountain of books she had purchased the week before break. Xander just made sure that the bare minimum of school work was done and decided to start his Christmas shopping on Thursday morning. While the week flew by for everyone— Giles found himself missing someone, which was only reinforced by house-sitting and the collecting of her mail. It isn't as though she would return such feelings, he scolds himself as he plucks her mail from the mailbox and heads back to his flat.
Meanwhile, Mackenzie snuggles into the sofa, tucking herself within the warmth of a fluffy blanket, a steaming cup of hot chocolate sitting on a coaster on the coffee table in front of her and a thick textbook open on her lap— only she finds herself distracted and re-reading the same paragraph once again.
"Kenzie, how would you like to join me for some retail therapy?" her mother inquires from the archway. She looks up from her textbook, glances at her hot chocolate and smiles widely.
"Sounds like a plan." She replies and lets the book close. Setting it on the coffee table, she quickly folds the blanket and sets it on the arm of the sofa, picks up her mug of hot chocolate to take to the kitchen.
"Are you all right?" her mother usually can tell when she's a bit melancholy and usually doesn't press the issue, but it's her favourite holiday and seeing her little girl out of sorts bothers her.
"Yeah mom, why wouldn't I be?"
"Oh I don't know honey, you don't appear to be yourself." Having already put her boots on, she plucks her winter coat from the coat rack, puts on her gloves and places her purse on her shoulder. Mackenzie follows and together they make their way out to the car.
Christmas Eve finds Giles home alone with a bottle of scotch, a glass, and his memories. The ringing of the telephone snaps him out of his thoughts and he quickly leans forward placing the tumbler on the coffee table and reaches across to the side table to the offending noise.
"Hello?" he removes his glasses and sets them aside.
"Merry Christmas Giles." Her voice is like music in his ears and he finds himself smiling like a fool.
"And a Merry Christmas to you as well, my dear— although isn't it a tad early?" he inquires and allows himself to sit back and sink into the sofa.
"Oh I know, but tomorrow will be crazy busy and if I recall you're going to be over at Buffy's for dinner and another slumber party?" he could hear the grin in her voice.
"We'll see about that." His reply, she laughs at his obvious discomfort.
"Did you not survive the movie fest slumber party last weekend?" she inquires enjoying the lightness and ease of their conversation.
"Yes. However, it wasn't a walk in the park by any means." It would have been bearable had you been here too, he keeps to himself.
"Sorry to turn this into a bit of a business call." She pauses, waiting to see if he stops her. "I wanted to ask you a quick question about the other text you asked me to translate."
"Yes?" despite the fact he would much prefer to discuss non-demonic activity, he coaxes for her to continue.
"I'm having a bit of difficulty with one passage. I can have Adam take a look at it, if that's okay with you. Or I can wait till I return and see if what I have is anywhere near what you can get out of it."
"I'm sure you have it. It occurs to me that you are quite the brilliant linguist— I only wish I had your talent." He compliments her and can sense her blush.
"Well I'll keep working on it." He can hear her running her fingers over what he thought might be the text. Almost wishing she didn't have to end the call, she takes a breath. "Well I really just wanted to wish you a Merry Christmas. I'll see you after the New Year." She adds.
"Thank you." He says in a quiet tone. "If you need anything at all, feel free to call anytime." He pauses. "And have a wonderful Christmas." He adds in a cheerful tone wishing for more than a telephone call.
"Thank you. For everything." She says and reluctantly pulls the receiver away from her ear and quietly cradles it in the base.
Sighing loudly, Mackenzie returns to the living room, her family and Duncan who are all sitting around a coffee table filled with odds and ends— a cheese tray, assorted crackers, candies, chocolates, nuts, fruit, spring rolls, and sausage rolls.
"You okay?" Duncan asks quietly as she takes her place beside him on the sofa. She shrugs her shoulders and nods.
"Sure, why wouldn't it be?"
"I don't know." He rolls his eye indicating that he thought he knew more than he was saying. They quickly and easily join the conversation. The lights are dim, the tree lights are gently flickering, a fire dances in the fireplace, and Christmas music plays quietly in the background. Save a few more clichés, this night was just like every other Christmas Eve in the Lamont household— family and close friends was the only way to spend the season.
Thankfully, Christmas at home is a wonderful mixture of goodly family togetherness, hanging out with her friends, training, and still finding the time to get some studying in as well.
"Hey, mom?" Mackenzie enters the kitchen, "do you need any help?" she inquires taking in her mother's apron, the pet mixing bowls, measuring cups scattered, and various baking tins line with parchment paper, or sprayed with olive oil.
"That wouldn't be an offer I'd pass on." She holds out an apron and returns to what Mackenzie deducted to be gingerbread batter. Quickly catching up on the treat menu, they blast the radio station that plays Christmas twenty-four hours till Christmas Day and continue their baking. Other preparations are also underway for their annual family and friend Christmas Eve party, as well as for the main meal. Mackenzie always wished she could be as amazingly organised as her mother— to the point where nothing could ruffle her feathers.
Mackenzie slowly awakens— still feeling hung over by all the food she recalls consuming over the past few days. Boy, will I ever be glad to be home, she muses as she pushes the blankets off her body, swinging her long legs over the edge of the bed and sits for a moment letting her toes dig into the plush carpet enjoying the softness underfoot before slowly making her way to the bathroom. Regardless of how 'off' she felt, she had decided that she was going to go for a morning run before breakfast. Quickly brushing her teeth, she places the toothbrush back in its place, she then sweeps her hair into a clumsy ponytail, and returns to her bedroom to dress. Quietly, she makes her way downstairs and sits on the bottom step to tie her running shoes.
"Morning run?" Duncan's voice is barely above a whisper and nearly causes her to have a heart attack. She nods as she stands.
"Looks like you had the same idea." She smiles and reaches for the doorknob. "Want some company?" he inquires. She nods and motions for him to follow. They run a familiar route towards the ravine and keep a steady pace. It isn't long before comfortable conversation begins.
"So Matt huh?" Duncan tilts his head and gives her an odd look that tells her he doesn't believe her.
"Yup. He asked me out for coffee before the holiday." She replies simply. Duncan can tell that she's not quite all Matt this and Matt that the way she has been with Giles, but he was happy to see her seeking balance.
"Are you sure that you're okay with leaving early with us before New Years?" Duncan asks to clarify an earlier conversation.
"Yes, of course. I was actually thinking that it would be good to get back to a routine before school starts back up again. Training and Watcher business, you know?"
"And Giles, I mean Matt." He amends and she can picture his raised eyebrow and tries not to let herself blush, smile, or give him any indication that the former might actually be the case.
"Duncan really?" she stops and he follows suit. A loud sigh escapes her lips as she attempts to put her thoughts into words. "What makes you think that there's anything or could be anything between Giles and myself? Why can't you just accept that I'm not serious, but I'm seeing Matt?"
"How shall I put this exactly?" he pauses with a bright smile, "aside from the fact that I've been around long enough to tell. Just for starters, the way that you two are with each other, especially in such a short period of time is an illustration that there is something brewing between you."
"But Duncan, you and I are very close. I mean, Buffy even assumed that we were far more than just training buddies."
"I have to say that there is difference." He interjects.
"Oh really?" she cocks a brow. "Let's see shall we? Could it be that I've known you since I was thirteen? I suppose that could potentially put a damper on things, wouldn't it?"
"What?" he stares at her taken aback by her blunt statement.
"Duncan, face it. You hardly see me as a woman— you will always see me as a young girl; and that's okay, I'm good with that. My friends on the other hand have always wondered about us— why we never developed romantic feelings." She exhales and her breath forms a soft cloud of condensed air against the cold. He tilts his head, stops in the middle of the bridge and leans against the railing. She stops and stares at the semi-frozen river for a long moment. "Duncan, it's way too early to know if there is anything between us anyways when we haven't had the opportunity to test those waters— and even if we wanted to, there are far too many complications that may inevitably result in a friendship, or none at all. Giles is working hard researching the upcoming ascension, which neither you nor Adam appear to have heard of, and all I've been doing is helping out with some translations. None of this is compromising my education, my Watcher researching position, or my training with you. Should this happen, you have permission to kick my ass." She pushes herself off the railing and he follows.
"Kenzie, I know you and I don't want to see you get hurt." Duncan puts a hand on her shoulder to reassure her that he isn't against her. "Just always remember that Joe and I are here for you. I know that once you make up your mind—whether its Giles or Matt, it's as good as made and the only thing I can do is be there for you— catch you when you fall." She smiles and pulls him into an embrace.
"Thanks for that." She whispers and breaking the embrace, than pulls him by his arm to resume their run.
"Besides, if I told you I didn't like him, you'd happily leave Matt in the dust and run towards him just to spite me."
"You really are terrible!" she calls over her shoulder as they race to the mouth of the ravine. The grey sky is almost colourless and the clouds are hanging low and no doubt filled to the brim with fresh snow waiting to fall. They pause at the top of the hill and catch their breaths before continuing home. About a block away she stops in her tracks and gently tugs on his arm to slow him.
"You're right." She states in her matter of fact tone, one Duncan knows all too well. They stop in their tracks.
"I'm right? About what?" he inquires, his Scottish accent soothing and calming her as she prepares for her big confession.
"Normally, I would tell my mother something like this." she pauses and he can sense the 'however'. Thank goodness it isn't terribly cold, she muses. "I will admit that a certain Englishman has caught more than just my attention." They begin walking at a comfortable pace. "It's just that." She suddenly feels as though she cannot say another word, "just a crush." More under her breath, but he catches it nonetheless.
"Kenzie, whatever you want to say will be in the strictest of confidence." He stops and tugs her arm for her to follow. She looks up into his chocolate brown eyes and sees his compassion, she smiles and takes a deep breath. "You haven't killed anyone? And even if you have, you know that you can come to me." He adds, although it is of some comfort, it truly does very little to put her at ease. However, what she has to say suddenly feels significant enough to share with someone. She knows that she can no longer stall, so she takes another deep breath.
"As you know, I've been helping Giles with researching various demons, spells, researching the ascension, and assisting with translations whenever I can." She recalls her conversation with her brother, and they pause once more, a comfortable moment. "Anyways, the extra hours spent at the library helping, while not entirely close quarters and not always private— as during the day and even into the evening hours Willow, Xander, and even Buffy are there." Her voice falters slightly. "It's probably just a silly romantic notion or something of the like, but there have been glances and times when our hands touch, you know when you're reaching for the same book, but neither realise that the other is reaching for the same book— there seems to be sparks. Having said that, I could be totally wrong and just imagining it." She looks down at her shoes as if they have become the most interesting thing next to the slushy pavement. "And if I've miss read, it could adversely impact the relationship itself and our established friendship." Her sigh is quiet and her eyes have darkened slightly to emphasise the seriousness of her contemplations.
Duncan reaches out and places a comforting hand on her shoulder. With a gentle squeeze he takes a deep breath.
"Kenzie, unlike Rupert I've had the privilege to have known you for several years now. From the rambunctious teenager, bloom into the beautiful, intelligent, young woman standing before me today. I'm fairly certain in the time that you've shared, Rupert sees you in the same light." He lowers his gaze and gives her one of his lopsided smiles. She exhales slowly and processes what he's just said and smiles back, still unsure if he's right. She gently reciprocates the gesture, placing her hand on his arm and nods. "Having said that, if Matt is the right now guy till the two of you figure things out. Just don't do anything stupid."
"Thanks for listening." She adds and they resume walking home. "Richie's been doing very well with all of his training." She comments, quickly changing the subject.
"I wish he was far more focused in terms of his future."
"How so?" she inquires lightly.
"He has the whole immortal thing down; however, I just wish he would continue his education. Go to college at the very least."
"Mac, school isn't for everyone you know." She says as they walk up the drive to the front door.
She unlocks the door and they step into the foyer, already removing their running jackets and shoes.
"Are you sure you're okay with leaving early?" he stops her before she heads upstairs for a shower. "From what I can tell, you usually do a family thing for New Years." She nods her response.
"True, but I really do have a lot of school work I want to get done. And there are a few texts that I'm still working on their translations— Adam has offered his help as well and seeing that he's on campus for the holidays, I thought I'd pop in and see if he can give me a hand with them." He nods.
"I just want to be sure." He winks and she shakes her head, feeling a blush slowly rising from her neck up to colour her cheeks. Turning away with a light huff, she heads upstairs to her room and the awaiting hot shower.
Driving back to Sunnydale, Mackenzie reflects on her visit home. Spending time with her family— dividing her time between her parents and brother. Hanging out with her friends— going to see the latest films, eating out at their favourite restaurants, and just chilling at each other's homes. It truly had been a jam packed two weeks and somehow while inviting as staying and ringing in the New Year with her family felt, getting home back to Sunnydale and her routine before classes resumed felt far more comforting. The car coming to a halt brings her from her holiday reflections.
"Kenzie, I thought you might be hungry," Joe says brightly as he cuts the engine and they remove their seatbelts and exit the car. Making their way to the small grill, she smiles to herself as they enter and she always has an idea what she's going to order.
They have a light lunch and get back on the road.
"So Kenzie, what's the first thing you're doing do when you get back?" Duncan inquires, already having a pretty good idea.
"I'll see what time we get back. I may just have some dinner and hit the books." She pauses. "I have been doing some Watcher journal research on Methos."
"Methos?" Joe catches her eyes in the rear view mirror.
"I've been trying to track him through the journals to see roughly how old he really is. At least in terms of what the Watchers actually know of him. I find it fascinating that he's been around for as long as he has. Has had a life that no one would believe and the Watchers only have him pegged at two thousand years old, when from the history he can recall he's probably older than the five thousand he estimates his age."
"This is personal research, not official Watcher research right?" Joe cocks a thick brow.
"Don't worry Uncle Joe— Methos is totally safe with me. He's helped me with so many aspects of my Watcher education, in particular with my language study, it's the least I can do. I couldn't imagine what the Watchers Council would do if they knew he 'joined' them." She laughs and Duncan even lets a quiet chuckle escape his lips.
"We live within the confines of a secret society Uncle Joe. And then with my situation, which is rather similar to his, in that if I become an immortal everything will change. What would the Council do?" she cannot help but wonder out loud. He takes a moment to contemplate her inquiry— in fact, he had never actually given it any thought at all of what could potentially be should she experience a violent death.
"Well, I actually don't know— what I do know is that there is no way I can discreetly find out. I would hate to see the aftermath should Horton find out." His response making Duncan wonder if there were other Watchers who had become immortal. It was one thing for Methos to be masking around as a Watcher named Adam Person— if found out, what would the ramifications be?
"None of us will breathe a word, and you know Methos. He's likely to do his thing and disappear for a century or something." Mackenzie says as she lets her head rest against the headrest with the hope she can just close her eyes and not think about it, nor ever have to be concerned with finding out the answer.
It's nearly five-thirty when they arrive in Sunnydale and Mackenzie is happy to be that much closer to home. The only thing she dreads is having to pop in the grocery store as she is sure that most of her perishables will have to be green binned. Her mind quickly creates a systematic to-do list as they turn down a familiar street leading to Duncan's home/dojo. Joe pulls the car into an empty slot beside Duncan's black Ford Thunderbird. They get out and help him with his bags.
"Want to come up and order something for dinner?" he inquires as he opens the side door and they step inside.
"I'm not sure about you guys, but I want to get to the grocery store and pick up a few things like milk and fresh fruit and veggies." Mackenzie almost stifles a yawn. Both Joe and Duncan smile. "Besides, no offence, but I just need a bit of me time. A nice hot bath, a good book— you know?" she adds as she quickly gives Duncan a hug. Joe shakes his hand and he picks up his bags and heads upstairs. Joe and Mackenzie return to the awaiting car.
Once home with her groceries, Mackenzie closes the door behind her and hears the lock before picking up her grocery bags and heading to the kitchen. She quickly unpacks the groceries and puts them away, tucking the plastic bags in a holder screwed to the inside of a lower cupboard door. She just makes her way back to the small foyer to pickup her bags from her holiday when, with a gentle smile, she thinks that she ought to head over to Giles' to pickup her mail and extra house key— but finds herself far too drained. I think I'll get myself sorted out first, she muses picking up her bags and dragging herself upstairs to unpack and answer the call of a long hot bath. Tomorrow will be the return to routine, training and study, and Watcher research. The hot water fills the tub—she tips a bit of vanilla scented bath wash into the stream and lights and places a vanilla scented candle beside the bathtub. Stripping out of her clothes, Mackenzie takes in the soft glow of the room and the relaxing scent.
Lowering herself into the water, she closes her eyes momentarily and sinks into the tub, the soft bubbles bobbing around her shoulders and she sighs in contentment. This is what I've needed all week she allows her head to rest against the air pillow. Her fingers find the washcloth and she tips a bit of body wash onto it and runs it over her body— she can feel any residual tension in her muscles slowly let go of her and she sighs once more. Washing her hair last, she pulls the plug and picks the plush towel, wraps it around her slender form and steps out of the tub. The remainder of her evening ritual is quick, flossing and brushing her teeth, putting moisturiser on her body and cream on her face— she heads back to her bedroom to select fresh pyjamas, navy striped men's style bottoms and a deep navy tank top, she slips the light blue housecoat on, places her feet in her slippers she heads back downstairs to make sure the house is locked up and the lights are turned off. I'll head over to Giles' to pickup mail and the spare key tomorrow, she muses heading back up to her bedroom to climb into bed and submit to sleeps embrace.
Turning onto her side, Mackenzie feels the Californian morning sun caress her face as it seeps in through the open curtain, spilling onto her bed. Well, there went my treat of sleeping in this morning, she sighs to herself and quickly selects her clothes for the day— hanging them on a hook and almost as quickly prepares herself for the day. Downstairs, she puts the television on to catch the news while preparing breakfast— she then sits herself at the breakfast bar to eat. With it being the week between Christmas and New Years, Mackenzie was quite sure of Giles being home— unless, of course, he was at the school library with Buffy, training or doing research. What was it with evil? She thinks while rinsing and placing her dishes in the dishwasher and wiping the counter with a damp cloth.
Arriving at Giles' doorstep, Mackenzie held a bag in her hand and brought her knuckles to gently brush the wooden door. Almost thinking he was out, she turns to head back to her place and get ready to head over to Duncan's when the turn of the lock and a creak causes her to remain planted in her spot.
"Ah Mackenzie! You're back early. Come in." He sounds surprised, yet the soft crooked smile sends a warm rush through her, as he moves aside to allow her access to his flat— is that a bit of heat? She wonders as she makes her way into the living room and sits on the sofa. I'm just imagining it, she scolds herself.
"Duncan and Uncle Joe wanted to head back early— and well, I have to admit that as great as the holiday is, it was a little much for me." She finds herself babbling. "Before I forget." She stands and holds out the festive bag. "I hope that I'm not overstepping any boundaries, but I wanted to give you something to thank you for making sure my home was still standing when I returned, which by the way, I'm sorry I didn't stop in last night— but I just really needed some down time."
He nods and smiles his ascent as he receives the bag from her and they sit while he politely pulls the tissue paper out of the way. He hadn't expected her to actually wrap the gift as well, as it appeared that once someone utilised a gift bag and tissue paper, the need to wrap the gift was moot. It warmed him that she had thought of him and had taken the extra time. Not wanting to rip through the paper, he carefully pulls the tape at the end and slides the box free. She watches as he lifts the lid from the top and spreads open the last barrier of tissue with his fingers. Nestled within the tissue a silver iPod Shuffle.
"I know its technology and you're really into the books, but." She pauses not stopping herself from reaching out and touching his arm to reassure him. "I managed to program it with most of your record collection."
"How did you?"
"Well, let's just say that I pay attention to you when you speak." She replies and he picks up the slim gadget and turns it between his fingers. His eyes rest on the inscription. In an old fashion scroll:
For Rupert Giles
An incredibly rare find
Kenzie
1998
He tilts his head as he places the Shuffle back in the box, setting it on the table he stands and closes the distance between them.
"Thank you." He sits next to her and wraps his arms around her. She smiles with relief. "Just don't tell the others." He chuckles lightly and they both find it difficult to part just yet.
"I have you mail." He finally says walking to his desk and the pile of envelopes.
"Oh yes, the dreaded bills." She reaches out when her returns and then decides to place it on the coffee table. "So how was your Christmas?" she inquires, tucking her stocking feet underneath her and leaning towards him, placing her arms on the sofa arm. He sits forward in the leather armchair and begins to recount the events from the movie night to dinner at Buffy and her mothers. They share some laughs and even enjoy the momentary silence that oddly isn't uncomfortable. Not that she wants to, but Mackenzie checks the time and nearly drops over.
"Oh my!" she exclaims standing abruptly. Giles also notices how quickly the time flew, but for him it was of little consequence, he would still be able to make it to the library and have time to spare before Buffy and her friends would arrive. "I'm sorry, I have to get going. Duncan is expecting me for training. How is the research coming along?"
"It's coming. I really appreciate your assistance. It has made it a lot easier." He watches as she picks up the mail from the coffee table and then reaches for her elbow to guide her towards his front door. "Will we be seeing you at the library?" he inquires with a touch of, what she wondered or hoped was, hope in his tone. She smiles and nods before happily making her way across the courtyard to her condo.
Quickly going inside, she places the mail on the table in the foyer, plucks her gym bag from its place beside the door, closes the door once again, checks that it's locked, and walks to her car to drive over to the dojo.
"I was wondering if you had forgotten our session." Duncan teases while Richie emerges from the change room.
"Hey." Richie says while running the towel over his red hair with a wide grin.
"Hey." She replies while setting her bag on a nearby bench, grabs her towel and water bottle and makes her way towards Duncan to begin their training— quick sprints to quickly warm up her body and then a quasi-yoga stretching session then they got down to the physical training. Today, hand-to-hand— Duncan wanting to be sure that no matter what situation she may get herself into, she would be perfectly capable of extracting herself from said situation. He pauses in the middle of a counter-attack and she too stops dead in her tracks, following his gaze towards the main doors. A sigh of relief as Methos enters, complaining under his breath once again.
"I thought we were meeting later today." Duncan states as they stand down completely and bow in respect to signify the end of their sparring match. Methos sits himself on a bench and observes for a moment before speaking.
"Kenzie, I've looked over your translation and its spot on. I just wish that it was good news." He states as she wanders to her water bottle and takes a much-needed gulp of water.
"So not what I wanted to hear." She huffs and sinks down on the floor at his feet, leaning against the bench for a moment in thought, feeling the wood dig into her mid-back. "Are you sure you haven't seen anything this hinky in all your years?" he thinks for a moment, considering her question.
"I suppose when you're just trying to ensure your own survival, you don't take much stock in what's going on around you." He replies calmly. "This isn't supposed to happen till June, right?"
"Right, Sunnydale Highs graduation isn't going to be anything like mine." She says darkly. "There's something wrong when you know that someone is bad and going to be doing something wrong that you can't stop them before things really get out of hand." Methos cocks a brow. "Is it so wrong when you would potentially be saving a bunch of high school kids?" she adds as she rests her forehead on her knees.
"This is why we need a really good plan."
"I agree, but Kenzie, this isn't your fight. As I recall, Giles states that it's the Slayer's and the Slayer's alone." She nods, but Duncan and Giles both know that she'll get as close to the action as she can without getting hurt or dead.
"I just want to be able to help."
"The best thing you can do is probably stay away. Should someone become distracted, things might not go according to plan." Methos rests a hand on her shoulder. She thinks about what he said and rolls her eyes.
"I can't believe that New Years Eve is the day after tomorrow, which means that school starts back up again and we have under five months to work out the kinks." She sighs and takes another sip of water. "I guess I better get going. I have Watcher research to tend to." She stands quickly, runs the towel over her face and drapes it over her shoulders. Methos observes her with a wide smile. She doesn't appear to notice as she stands and begins packing her gym bag. "We have a session this Friday?" she inquires, pushing her arm through the length of the jacket and zips it up nearly to her chin. He nods, "see you then, or before." She quickly gives him a hug, "And thanks again for your help Methos." She hugs him as well before heading towards the door.
On her way out of the dojo, Mackenzie's phone rings and she quickly checks the caller ID before answering.
"Hey there cutie." A distinctly male voice sasses her from the other end of the proverbial line.
"What's up Matt?" she walks to her car and clicks the rear door open, dumps her gym bag in, and closes it with a loud thud.
"I was hoping that you didn't have plans for New Years." His voice holds a tone of hope.
"Well if you mean have I been asked out yet, I haven't." she replies with a grin he can hear from his end.
"Oh really?" he pauses, "then consider yourself asked out." He says with confidence. With a laugh, she sighs and opens the driver's side door, climbs in and closes it. Turning the key, she lets it run long enough to get the heat going to take the chill off.
"What if I don't want to go out with you?" she teases him.
"Well, I was considering the kidnapping approach." He teases back.
"What are the plans?"
"There's a New Years party off campus that I thought would be the perfect setting for our first real date. I mean coffee, movies, and just sitting outside having lunch on campus is fun and all." Matt says casually.
"Mini-dates are just as fun as date, dates. Why haven't we had what you call a real date?"
"I was waiting for the perfect moment. And what better moment?" she can tell that he's just lying back either on a sofa or his bed and is comfortable.
"You know what?"
"What?"
"I'm in." she replies and jots a few notes on a scrap piece of paper before hanging up and driving home. Just because the person you have eyes for doesn't return the sentiment doesn't mean you have to spend all your time waiting for them to realise, she muses smugly as she drives home.
The Scooby gang agree to meet up at Buffy's to decide on an evening out and then to return for their annual slumber party. Xander enters with his overnight bag, a sleeping bag and pillow, and a plastic bag with some choice sugary treats. Willow arrives next with similar items, but her plastic bag of goodies consists of chips and various dips— and Buffy groans at the thought of more food. Her stomach protests the thought of more junk. At least they all agreed to go out for dinner instead of having pizza, she had even managed to trick Giles into joining them— he said that he had something to tend to prior to meeting them at the restaurant and they were satisfied with his lack of explanation, figuring that it had to do with grown-up stuff, research, or other Watcher business.
Mackenzie stands in front of her full-length mirror trying to decide if the dress she has selected for this evenings New Years party with Matt is the right one. She loves the colour, a deep crimson with lace overlay and glittered thread, to the knee. A strappy pair of matching shoes add length to her already long, lean legs. Her hair pinned up with some curls strategically pulled to frame her slender face. Large sparkly earrings dangle from her ears, and she pulls a black lacy shawl to grace her shoulders to ward off a possible chill. A gentle rap on her front door brings her from her fussing and she glances at the clock. Matt isn't supposed to be here yet? She muses, wondering who could be at the door. Perhaps its Joe with some New Years Eve advice, she carefully makes her way downstairs. Opening the door, she is surprised with who stands before her.
"Giles." She says with a smile. "Happy New Year." She moves aside to allow him access.
"I see I've come at a bad time."
"Not at all." She smiles, her lips matching the deep crimson of her party dress.
"You l-look lovely t-this evening." He adds with what she thought might be a slight blush.
"Thank you." She replies casually, noting the hold her dress appears to have over him. "Is there something I forgot to include with your translation?" she inquires hoping that Matt doesn't choose that moment to show up.
"Oh, no I wanted to thank you once again for your assistance in the matter. It has given us the upper hand." He says, as he shoves his hand in his pocket fighting the need to polish his always sparkling glasses.
"You're welcome. I'm glad that I could be of some help." She replies, "I would offer you something, but." She pauses.
"You are going out for the evening." He supplies for her.
"As a matter of fact, I am." She glances once more at her watch. "Well, if he doesn't chicken out on me." She adds with a sigh.
"If he has any marbles at all, he won't want to miss out on a lovely evening with a wonderful young lady." Giles smiles warmly and closes the distance between them.
"Happy New Years, my dear." He adds and without much thought catches her in a soft embrace.
"Thanks." She returns his embrace and when they gently break apart, the silence between them isn't awkward in the least.
"I suppose I'll be seeing you next year." He adds with a wink and makes his way towards the door.
"I hope you have a wonderful evening." She follows and watches as he makes his way over to his flat as Matt makes his way up the steps.
"My Mackenzie, you look amazing!" Matt exclaims, holding out a small bouquet of flowers. "I know, lame huh?" he adds as she smiles and smells them.
"Thank you— and lame? Not terribly." He steps over the threshold and she closes the door. "Is this okay for this evening?" she inquires as she makes her way to the kitchen for a vase to arrange the flowers in.
"Perfect." He replies simply. "I even tried dressing like a grownup." He opens his long raincoat to reveal an actual tux.
"Oh thank God!" she exclaims, "I thought I went a bit overboard and would have to change into my backup outfit."
"Which was?" he was legitimately curious.
"Oh, just a pair of black pants, boots, and a lace up top with a leather jacket."
"Really?"
"Really, really." She smiles as they make their way back to the front door and he helps her with a light coat. "Thank you." He then opens the door for her and she steps through.
They arrive at a two-story home off campus. The front doors are opened by a butler, and there is a catering company with servers in black and white uniforms holding trays of canapés and other goodies, while others have wine— saving the champagne for later, Mackenzie takes in her surroundings as she allows Matt to lead her through the maze of people.
"This isn't your average university New Years Eve event is it Matt?" he shakes his head.
"Nope, but I didn't think you'd agree to tag along if I told you that this is my families early event." He pauses, "I hope you're not upset with me." He adds, placing a hand firmly on her lower back to lead her to a quieter place to sit and talk. "I'm in no way, shape or form looking to take advantage of you this evening." He clarifies. She lets out the breath she unknowingly had been holding.
You could have told me." She tilts her head and a curl comes free from behind her ear. Matt reaches out to gently set it back.
"Believe me, I wanted to. But whenever I meet a girl," he stumbles trying to find the words. "They have these unrealistic expectations."
"Expectations?" her eyebrows raise nearly to her hairline.
"They see my family and assume that I'm a player. One of the reasons I couldn't bring myself to just call you for a simple cup of coffee."
"You thought to just lay this one me instead?" she supplies.
"Mackenzie, when we first met I knew you were different. Regardless of where we end up, I'm just glad to have had the chance to know you. If even for a moment." His words come more easily and she saw the sincerity behind them.
"I have a confession." She breaks the comfortable silence between them.
"What might that be?"
"Well, for starters, my world is rather topsy-turvy in the sense that I am usually so busy I hardly know what day it is."
"I actually noticed that." Her eyes widen slightly in disbelief.
"You have?"
"Yeah sure- when you're in class your all business like, when you're out of class I notice you spending quite a bit of time with that TA Adam Pearson and the guest professor Duncan MacLeod."
"You don't know the half of it."
"Try me."
Without being overly revealing, Mackenzie chooses her words carefully.
"Well, let's see. Adam Pearson has been helping me with some very complex translations."
"I recall you saying that you're a linguistic major." She only nods.
"And Duncan and I kind of have known each other since I was a teenager and I train in self-defence with him." She found how easy it was to be honest without being too honest. This explanation appears to satisfy his curiosity. And the rest of the evening is spent in compatible conversation and joining the main party to ring in the New Year— with tacky party hats, streamers, and loud noise makers. They didn't stay much later after midnight, Matt wanting to make sure that Mackenzie made it home safely, retrieves their coats and make a quick exit. Walking her into the courtyard, they stop at the fountain.
"This is actually quite a lovely complex." He comments as they resume their way to her flat
"Thank you. We were really lucky." She slips the key into the lock and opens the door. "Would you care for something? I have to warn you that I may not be the best company." She adds with a slight yawn.
"Perhaps we'll get out for that coffee another day?" he says hopeful. She nods and steps into his embrace, she kisses his cheek.
"Thank you for a lovely evening." She adds and he nods his understanding before turning and heading down the steps.
Closing the door, Mackenzie reflects on the evening and hopes that if nothing else, she and Matt can continue to maintain a friendship. Yes, she liked him, but it wasn't the same— they lacked sparks. She removes her coat and carefully hangs it in the closet, undoes and steps out of her shoes before double checking that the door is secure and turns off the lights on her way upstairs. Recalling her evening with Matt, she would admit to, at the very least enjoying herself between talking and dancing, she had been glad to have agreed to attend the party with him, yet she couldn't help but wonder what a certain Watcher had been up to that evening. God! I have to stop this! She scolds herself as she strips out of her dress, placing it on a hanger to go to the cleaners and makes her way to the bathroom to ready for bed, she emerges in her pyjamas. Once again, finding herself drawn to the window, she walks across the room, pausing and reaches out to the filmy curtains. Pulling them aside to glance down at the vacant courtyard, she then lets go of the material and it slips back into place. Turning from the window to climb into bed and as she closes her eyes, she recalls the party and the shiny New Year that lay ahead.