Charmed: Another Halliwell

by Brenna's Urbangirl Projects

Summary: Buffy Summers is the daughter of Joyce and Hank Summers. Joyce was born Patience Joyce Halliwell she was Prue, Piper and Phoebe's aunt. When Joyce dies Buffy is left in the care of her cousins. Pairings: Prue, Piper, and Phoebe (and later Paige) canon pairings. Buffy/Dawn (Yes, Forbidden Sibling Love). A/U Set during and after Charmed Season 1 and Buffy season 1.

61. Chapter 61: We All Scream for Ice Cream

Author's Note: A guest reviewed (that I didn't approve) saying they wanted to see a Buffy/Cordelia pairing. Not happening. Only femslash will be Willow/Tara. Buffy pairings are canon till season 8 at which point she will get an OC pairing.

---

Chapter 61: We All Scream for Ice Cream

January 14, 1999 – Thursday

Payson's

The vibrant atmosphere of the dance floor filled the club with energy as people swayed to the rhythm of the music. In the secluded owner's alcove, adorned with dimmed lights and plush seating, Buffy, Phoebe, and Piper gathered, Buffy and Phoebe's attention captured by a particular interaction unfolding before them.

Piper, unable to resist her curiosity, peered around the curtain, stealing glances at a captivating man who reciprocated her gaze with equal intensity. Phoebe joined her side, intrigued by the secretive observation. "What's with the hide-and-go-peek?" she questioned, her curiosity piqued.

"That's what I'm wondering," Buffy chimed in, her eyes following Piper's line of sight.

Piper turned to Phoebe, her voice filled with a mix of excitement and uncertainty. "He's still staring at me," she disclosed, a hint of anticipation coloring her words.

Curiosity getting the better of her, Phoebe inquired further. "Who?" she asked, wanting to understand the source of Piper's attention.

Piper's eyes remained fixed on the guy at the end of the bar, a smile playing on his lips. "The guy at the end of the bar," she revealed, the anticipation in her voice mirrored by her expression.

Recognizing the signs of flirtation, Phoebe shared her insight with a playful tone. "Oh, no, honey, that's not staring, that's flirting," she remarked, her amusement evident.

Buffy, intrigued by the exchange, rose from her seat to catch a glimpse of the guy who had caught Piper's attention. "He's cute," she remarked, her observation aligning with Piper's interest.

Piper countered with a touch of humor, "You say tomato."

Phoebe interjected, dismissing any concerns. "No, I say relax-o," she countered, assuring them of the guy's seemingly harmless intentions. "He seems pretty harmless. I mean, he's clean-cut, innocent. The kind of guy that a girl could teach a few things to."

Piper, mindful of her committed relationship, emphasized the boundaries. "Hello? A girl that's in a serious relationship," she reminded them. "Besides, it's always the innocent-looking ones you have to watch out for."

Their conversation was interrupted as Prue entered the alcove, seeking their assistance. Taking a seat among them, she greeted them with a sense of urgency. "Hi, hey, alright, I need some professional help," she appealed to them.

Buffy, nodding in agreement, responded with a light-hearted quip. "No arguments here."

Prue rolled her eyes, recognizing their playful banter. "Ha, cute. Uh, where is your DJ?" she inquired, shifting the focus of their conversation.

Buffy directed her gaze towards Piper, clarifying their roles. "I'm just the owner, you're the manager, Piper," she reminded her, highlighting their respective responsibilities within the establishment.

Piper, with a hint of concern in her voice, responded to Prue's inquiry about the DJ. "Uh, he's on break. Why? What's going on?" she questioned, her curiosity piqued.

Prue, her expression reflecting the frustration of an incessantly repeating tune, nodded in agreement. "You know when you get a song stuck in your head and you can't seem to get it out?" she explained, seeking solace in shared experiences.

Phoebe, reflecting on her own lingering melodic obsession, chimed in with a touch of humor. "Yeah, tell me about it. I couldn't get The Facts of Life theme song out of my head for like three years," she admitted, evoking a playful eye roll from Buffy.

Recognizing the seriousness of Prue's predicament, Piper leaned forward, ready to assist. "Alright, well, I have absolutely no idea what this one is, and it's driving me crazy. And I thought that maybe your DJ might recognize it or something," Prue explained, her hopes resting on a potential solution.

Eager to lend a hand, Piper asked for a snippet of the mysterious melody. "How's it go?" she inquired, hoping to trigger a recognition.

Prue, initially hesitant, eventually relented. "I'm not gonna sing it for you," she declared, her reluctance evident.

Buffy, ever optimistic, encouraged the eldest member of their family. "Why not? Maybe we'll recognize it," she suggested, urging Prue to give it a try.

With a sigh, Prue succumbed to their requests and hummed the tune. "Anything?" she asked, her eyes shifting between her sisters.

Piper, shaking her head, offered a disappointing response. "Nada," she admitted, her inability to identify the song mirrored by the others.

Apologizing for their lack of assistance, Buffy added a touch of levity. "Sorry," she offered, her tone tinged with a hint of playfulness.

Phoebe, ever the creative thinker, couldn't resist a whimsical suggestion. "I'm thinking if you try it again with a little bit more oomph, you know, maybe some choreography, and Piper could back you up with some old-school beatbox?" she proposed, a mischievous smile gracing her face.

Prue, realizing the futility of seeking help from her eccentric family, shook her head in resignation. "Why did I know that I would get absolutely no help out of you crazy people?" she mused, her frustration evident as she began to walk away, followed closely by Buffy, Piper, and Phoebe.

However, Piper, ever the compassionate sister, couldn't let Prue leave empty-handed. "Oh, come on, wait a minute. Wait. We can't let you leave completely empty-handed," she insisted, extending a small card to Prue.

Curious, Prue inspected the card, her brows furrowing. "What is this?" she questioned, her voice tinged with intrigue.

Buffy, eager to share some positive news, revealed the card's purpose. "Well, it seems like you really reconnected with our friend Justin. He's inviting us to his big annual family barbecue," she explained, her words infused with excitement.

Piper, joining in on the anticipation, added, "Sounds like fun," her voice filled with enthusiasm for the forthcoming gathering.

Prue's brows furrowed with concern as she contemplated the invitation before her. She voiced her reservations, frowning slightly. "For who? I mean, you know, Justin and I are still in the flirtatious banter stage in the relationship. I think hanging out with the folks might put a dampener on it," she explained, her voice laced with uncertainty.

Phoebe, ever insightful, sensed there might be more to Prue's hesitation. "Is that all?" she probed, her gaze fixed on her sister.

Prue nodded, a hint of confusion in her expression. "Yeah, what do you mean?" she inquired, genuinely curious.

Phoebe, always attuned to emotional undercurrents, gently pushed further. "I mean, are you sure it's not because it's a big family gathering?" she ventured, her voice filled with empathy.

Prue let out a sigh, feeling the weight of her sister's observation. "Okay, if you're gonna go with the 'Prue's got parental issues' card, let me save you some time," she responded, her frustration tinged with a touch of resignation.

Buffy, understanding the complexities of family dynamics, shook her head in sympathy. "Oh, Prue, it's not like we blame you. I mean, seeing complete connected families is hard on all of us, but we can't spend our lives avoiding what bothers us," she reasoned, her voice filled with compassion.

Prue shook her head, a mix of emotions coursing through her. "The only thing bothering me right now is that I cannot get this stupid song out of my head, alright? So I really appreciate your concern, but you know what I would appreciate even more? Five minutes with your DJ," she expressed, her tone laced with a combination of frustration and longing. With those words, she walked away, the melody still humming softly on her lips, a constant reminder of her elusive quest for answers.

Halliwell Manor

Buffy's room was cloaked in darkness, the only source of light emanating from the moon peeking through the window. Restlessness consumed her as she tossed and turned in her bed, trapped in the clutches of a haunting nightmare. Within the confines of her dream, she found herself transported to a wintry playground. The biting cold pierced the air as snowflakes danced around her.

In the midst of her eerie dream, a child's desperate screams pierced the silence, reverberating through the desolate playground. "Help me!" the little girl's cries echoed, pleading for salvation. Fear gripped Buffy's heart as she watched the child race across the snow-covered terrain, her small frame filled with terror. Her tiny feet carried her toward a figure in the distance.

As the nightmare intensified, Buffy's body twisted and turned, a physical manifestation of her inner turmoil. The disorienting dream held her captive, blurring the lines between reality and the realm of subconscious fears.

January 15, 1999 – Friday

Halliwell Manor

Suddenly, the shrill sound of Buffy's alarm pierced through the darkness, jolting her awake from the unsettling dream. Disoriented and breathless, she glanced at the clock beside her bed. The numbers glowed in the early morning light, revealing the time to be 7:00am. The remnants of her nightmare lingered, casting a shadow over her thoughts as she wrestled with the remnants of fear and confusion.

0 – 0 – 0 – 0 – 0

The morning sun painted the front porch with a gentle glow as Prue stepped out, her hand reaching out to collect the morning newspaper. The stillness of the neighborhood was interrupted by a faint melody that danced on the air, captivating Prue's attention. Her eyes scanned the surroundings, searching for the source of the mysterious tune.

0 – 0 – 0 – 0 – 0

In the kitchen, Phoebe was engrossed in her laptop, her focus fixed on gathering information about Cole. Determined, she urged the screen, "Come on, Cole. Talk to me."

Prue entered the room, greeting her sister with a playful tone. "Morning, sunshine." Phoebe remained absorbed in her task, seemingly oblivious to Prue's presence. "Okay, how about, uh, cloudy with a chance of showers?"

Phoebe finally acknowledged Prue's attempt at conversation, her tone slightly distant, "I'm sorry, did you say something?"

Buffy strolled into the kitchen, her movements fluid and purposeful. She made her way to the refrigerator, extracting a can of soda with a sense of ease.

Curiosity piqued, Prue inquired, "Nothing pressing. You pull an all-nighter again?"

"Yeah, uh, subject matter's been elusive." Phoebe, still preoccupied, explained just as an instant message notification appeared on her laptop screen, capturing her attention.

Curiosity getting the better of her, Prue asked about the identity of the sender. "Caught by the bell. Who's the instant message from?"

Sitting beside Phoebe, Buffy observed the interaction, her gaze shifting to Prue. Something tugged at her as she stared at the eldest Halliwell.

Phoebe quickly closed the laptop, dismissing the message as insignificant. "Oh, it's nothing."

Sensing there was more to it, Prue pressed on, linking the mysterious message to a potential romantic interest. "Alright, well, nothing usually means something, and something usually means a boy, so..."

Interrupting their conversation, Piper entered the kitchen, bringing a touch of peculiarity to the atmosphere. "Alright, I don't know what you guys are talking about, but what I've got is better... at least bizarrer."

"Bizarrer?" Prue questioned, her curiosity piqued.

Piper nodded in affirmation, a mischievous glimmer in her eyes. "Mmm hmm."

Buffy continued to stare at Prue. It was then that things began to click within her mind. As she stared she realized that Prue could be the little girl all grown up.

"Is that even a word, Piper?" Phoebe questioned.

Piper shrugged. "Whatever. Anyway, Cara called last night, and she had a meeting in the Bay Tech Building yesterday, and she swore that she saw Victor walking through the lobby."

Unfazed, Piper shrugged dismissively, replying, "Whatever. Anyway, Cara called last night, and she had a meeting in the Bay Tech Building yesterday, and she swore that she saw Victor walking through the lobby."

Buffy's eyes widened with disbelief as she sought clarification, "As in Uncle Victor?"

Piper affirmed her suspicion with a solemn nod, adding a touch of frustration, "As in we haven't spoken to him in a year, and now he's probably in town, and he hasn't even bothered to call us. Yes, that would be the one. Now you see my need to share?"

Phoebe interjected, her curiosity piqued, "But wait, Cara hasn't seen him since what?"

Piper nodded, acknowledging the rarity of the encounter, "Like the first grade, I know, but she sounded very sure. Why do you think he's here? Should we go and try to find him? I mean, what if it has nothing to do with us?"

Prue, maintaining a composed demeanor, shook her head, her resolve unwavering, "Well, I, for one, am not going to go out of my way to find out."

Phoebe's voice carried a tinge of longing, "Wait, you're not even curious? Come on, Prue. I mean, he is our father."

Buffy, recalling her disappointment after Victor's departure, shook her head, "I know I'm not. After what happened last time and him skipping town." Victor had told her that despite being her uncle that he wanted her to think of him as her father, that if he had been around he would have asked Joyce for the privilege of adopting her as he didn't think much of Hank. After that she, Prue, Piper, and Phoebe hadn't heard from or seen him again. She had come to the belief that Prue had been right back then and she had found herself distancing from him.

Prue nodded, her words tinged with acceptance, "Like I said before, I've come to terms with our lack of parental involvement. You know, some people just weren't meant to have the Rockwellian porch with the house, the two-car garage, the picket fence, the Golden Retriever, and the doting mom and dad."

Piper, ever the mediator, reminded them of the familial bond, "Okay, so we're not the typical family, but he is all we have, Prue. He is your only uncle, Buffy."

"I don't care if he's my uncle, Piper," Buffy retorted. "He burned that bridge when he proved Prue right by not coming around."

Prue's head shook slightly, affirming her perspective. "No, Piper, we have each other, okay? And we have other people that love us, too, and very full and busy lives. Speaking of which, I got to dash. If you want to have lunch, I'll be up on Knob Hill in the park for... doing a shoot, okay?"

Phoebe nodded, understanding Prue's need for space, "Okay."

"Okay," Prue echoed, ready to move forward.

Buffy, seizing the opportunity, sought a private conversation with Prue. "Prue, can I ride along? I need to talk to you."

Prue, acknowledging Buffy's request, offered a reassuring response. "Sure, Buffy."

"Hey, can I walk you out?" Piper asked.

"That would be so nice," Prue agreed as she, Buffy and Piper headed for the front door.

Streets of San Francisco

As Prue skillfully maneuvered the car down the street, leaving the familiar sight of the Manor behind, she turned her gaze towards Buffy, her eyes filled with genuine curiosity. "What is it you wanted to talk to me about?" she inquired, her voice carrying a mixture of attentiveness and anticipation.

Buffy took a deep breath, her words laden with a sense of significance and uncertainty. "I had a dream last night. I think it might have been a premonition," she confessed, her voice tinged with a hint of wonder.

Prue's eyebrows furrowed slightly, her attention fully captured by Buffy's revelation. "I thought you no longer got premonitions in your sleep anymore," she remarked, her voice reflecting both surprise and intrigue.

Buffy nodded, her eyes fixed on the road ahead. "I thought so too," she acknowledged. "See, the thing is, I think my premonition was of a past event with you on a playground surrounded by snow," she explained, her words chosen carefully to convey the gravity of her revelation.

Prue's head tilted slightly, her expression thoughtful. "Rings no immediate bells," she mused, her voice tinged with a touch of uncertainty. "But you will let me know if you have another premonition, though?" she asked, her words a gentle reminder of their shared responsibility to protect and support one another.

Buffy nodded, her resolve unwavering. "Of course," she replied, her voice carrying a note of determination. "While we're here, did you forget that I passed my written and driven tests?" she added, her words a subtle shift in the conversation, a reminder of her personal achievement.

Prue's lips curled into a knowing smile, her eyes glancing briefly at Buffy. "And you're reminding me of what I offered to do last month, take you car shopping," she remarked, her voice filled with a mix of fondness and sisterly affection.

Buffy's face brightened with delight, her smile infectious. "You know me so well, Prue," she expressed, her words a testament to the depth of their bond.

Prue's nod conveyed a sense of understanding and agreement. "We'll talk about it later, okay," she assured, her voice carrying a sense of promise and commitment.

415 Magazine Offices

Trapped within the confines of a cramped elevator, Buffy and Prue found themselves caught amidst a sea of people, all bustling and jostling for space. Impatience gnawed at them as they anxiously awaited their chance to escape the claustrophobic enclosure. Prue's watch glinted on her wrist, a constant reminder of the ticking seconds slipping away.

Amidst the murmur of conversations and the shuffling of feet, a faint, familiar tune danced through the air, tickling Prue's senses. Her head turned instinctively, searching for the source of the melodic hum. Her eyes scanned the faces of their fellow captives, curious and alert.

Then, like a scene unfolding in perfect synchrony with the tune, the elevator doors creaked open, revealing an unexpected sight. A little girl, no older than five, stood outside the elevator, her voice continuing to carry the haunting melody that had occupied Prue's thoughts. The child's innocent hum resonated in the air, weaving through the surrounding chaos.

Realizing their need to exit the elevator, Prue mustered her polite tone and spoke, her voice tinged with courtesy. "Oh, excuse us," she uttered, her words accompanied by a subtle, apologetic smile. Pulling Buffy behind her, they attempted to make their way out. They maneuvered through the crowd, their progress hindered by the influx of people now entering the elevator.

But time proved merciless, and the elevator door slammed shut before Prue and Buffy could make their escape, sealing their fate within the confined space once more. Disappointment etched across Prue's face silently acknowledging the setback that had befallen her.

Trapped yet again, the familiar hum of the little girl's tune echoed in Prue's ears.

Bay Tech Building

Approaching the receptionist's desk, Piper couldn't help but feel a tinge of sympathy for the woman who seemed burdened by the task of fielding inquiries from countless visitors. With a mixture of resignation and a touch of self-awareness, Piper initiated their interaction.

"Hi. I'm, uh... you don't really care who I am, do you?" Piper's voice carried a hint of empathy, recognizing the monotony of the receptionist's role. She understood the countless mundane questions the receptionist had likely answered throughout the day, posed by individuals who probably had no business asking them in the first place.

The receptionist, unfazed by Piper's commentary, responded professionally, her tone hinting at a touch of impatience. "Can I actually help you?" she inquired, her words cutting through the slight tension in the air.

Piper, realizing the need to get to the point, wasted no time in delving into the purpose of her visit. "Yeah, right," she acknowledged, her voice shifting to a more focused tone. "Um, I'd like to know which company Victor Bennett is with."

Without missing a beat, the receptionist diligently typed Victor's name into the computer, her fingers dancing across the keyboard. After a moment, she delivered the unexpected news. "He's not," she stated matter-of-factly, leaving Piper momentarily bewildered.

Piper's brow furrowed in confusion as she sought clarification. "Excuse me?" she questioned, her voice tinged with a mix of surprise and disbelief.

The receptionist, ever efficient, sought further confirmation. "Bennett, comma Victor?" she inquired, her eyes scanning the screen. "He's not listed in any office in the building," she affirmed, her words extinguishing any glimmer of hope that had flickered within Piper's heart.

Refusing to accept the response at face value, Piper reached into her purse and retrieved a photograph, weathered by the passage of time. She extended it toward the receptionist. "I, uh, I have a picture. It's from about a decade ago, but have you seen him around?" she questioned, her voice filled with a mixture of desperation and longing.

The receptionist, after a quick glance at the photograph, shook her head, signaling the absence of recognition. "No, I haven't," she replied, her tone devoid of any trace of familiarity or recognition.

Piper's hopes momentarily wavered, her mind struggling to reconcile the truth before her. However, just as she was about to speak further, a man emerged from the nearby elevator, capturing her attention. Hope sparked within her, momentarily blinding her to the reality of the situation.

"Dad?" Piper's voice carried a tremor of anticipation and disbelief, her heart momentarily convinced that she had finally found the elusive figure she sought. The man turned around, his features momentarily resembling those she had longed to see.

"It's, uh, it's not you," she stammered, her voice laced with disappointment and a hint of embarrassment. As the man continued walking, Piper's words trailed off, her apology hanging in the air.

Golden Gate Park

Sitting at a weathered picnic table in the picturesque park, Buffy, Prue, and Phoebe indulged in a moment of respite, their lunch spread out before them. The gentle breeze carried the faint scent of blooming flowers, enhancing the serene atmosphere that enveloped them.

Prue, taking a bite of her sandwich, broke the silence with a hint of pride in her voice. "So, they say stick to what you know. So I pitched a piece about growing up in the city. Hopefully, it'll make the cover," she shared, a glimmer of ambition shining in her eyes.

Phoebe, ever perceptive, sensed a layer of evasion in Prue's words and shook her head gently. "You're dodging. Artfully, but it's still a dodge," she pointed out, her voice laced with a mix of concern and understanding.

Prue, feeling the weight of the conversation settle upon her, let out a weary sigh. "Right, did you ever consider that maybe I just don't want to go?" she responded, her words tinged with a hint of defensiveness.

Phoebe's head shook slowly, her eyes filled with sincerity. "It has nothing to do with the barbecue or the guy that asked you to go with him. It has to do with our dad," she expressed, her words carrying a gentle insistence.

Exasperation flickered across Prue's face as she struggled to comprehend Phoebe's unwavering focus on their father. "Why do you insist on pinning everything that I do on my feelings or lack thereof for our father?" she questioned, her voice betraying a mix of frustration and vulnerability.

Phoebe, undeterred, met Prue's gaze with unwavering conviction. "Prue, you say you're over it, but you say it so much that I have this feeling that the person you're trying to convince is yourself. And believe me, after what I went through with Cole, if anyone understands that, it's me," she confessed, her voice filled with empathy and understanding.

Buffy, interjecting with a touch of playfulness, couldn't help but offer her perspective. "Uhm, I don't think having a demonic boyfriend counts, Pheebs. If it did, I would win because of Angel," she chimed in, her voice carrying a mix of lightness and camaraderie.

Prue, resolute in her stance, nodded affirmatively. "My feelings for our father are in the past, which means it really has no place in the present," she declared, her voice carrying a sense of finality.

"So Justin gets penalized for it," Phoebe remarked, her voice tinged with intrigue and a touch of amusement.

As the conversation unfolded, a melodic humming broke the air and Prue's eyes lit up with recognition. "There it is," she exclaimed, her gaze focused on the source of the tune.

"What?" Phoebe asked confused at the sudden change of topic.

Curiosity piqued, Buffy interjected, her tone lighthearted. "The tune that's stuck in your head?" she inquired, her voice carrying a playful undertone.

Prue nodded. "That song." She glanced at her sister. "Don't you hear it, Phoebe? Somebody's humming it."

Buffy tilted her head as she picked up the sounds of humming. "I hear it but it could be because of my Slayer hearing."

Prue, with a sense of urgency, rushed towards a nearby little girl, with Buffy and Phoebe close behind. "Hi. Hey. I was wondering if you could tell me what that song is you're humming," she asked the young girl, her voice filled with genuine curiosity.

The girl pointed in the direction of an approaching ice cream truck, her innocent gesture providing the long-awaited answer to Prue's musical mystery.

"Okay, riddle solved. Now you can stop humming that stupid song," Phoebe teased, a hint of relief evident in her voice. "So, I think we were in the middle of you trying to make a strong argument of why you're not gonna go to Justin's barbecue," she continued, her words laced with a mix of playful banter and heartfelt concern.

Prue, still captivated by the passing ice cream truck, seemed momentarily lost in thought, her attention momentarily diverted from the ongoing conversation.

"Prue, if you keep ignoring me, my feelings just might actually implode." Phoebe's words hung in the air, carrying a lighthearted tone.

The girl raced toward the ice cream truck, her steps quick and purposeful.

Prue couldn't help but comment on the chilly weather as she watched the girl. "It's cold out," she stated, her breath visible in the crisp winter air.

Phoebe nodded in agreement, a playful response on her lips. "Yeah, it's a little thing we like to call winter here," she quipped, emphasizing the obvious contrast between the frozen climate and the allure of ice cream.

Buffy, always attuned to the details, shook her head in perplexity. "I see where you're going, Prue. Why would a child want ice cream when it's this cold out? And did you notice? There are no parents around," she pointed out, her voice tinged with a mix of curiosity and concern.

Phoebe furrowed her brow, seeking clarification. "Okay, connect the dots for me, please?" she requested, her tone reflecting a desire for a clearer understanding.

They began to walk, with Prue leading the way, and Phoebe and Buffy following closely behind.

"Uh, preferably standing still," Phoebe added, emphasizing the need for a momentary pause in their movement. "Prue, we're in the middle of a conversation, and considering your lunch hour ended, oh, five minutes ago, we should probably make this fast," she urged, her words laced with a hint of urgency.

Prue's intuition guided her, and she continued walking, a determined look on her face. Buffy nodded in agreement, acknowledging the gravity of the situation.

"Yeah, well, something's wrong," Prue stated, her voice carrying a mixture of conviction and concern.

Buffy, trusting Prue's instincts, silently affirmed the eldest Halliwell's observation.

Phoebe's voice carried a mixture of concern and frustration as she implored her sister, "Yeah, I know that. Why don't you talk to me about it?"

Prue shook her head, a sense of urgency coloring her words. "Not with me, Phoebe, with this, alright? I have a total déjà vu coming on," she explained, her tone indicating that she sensed something more profound at play.

Phoebe's confusion was evident as she questioned, "Okay, so first you're humming weird songs, now you're having flashbacks?"

As the conversation unfolded, the young girl approached the window of the ice cream truck, her innocent curiosity piqued.

"Would you like some ice cream, little one?" the Ice Cream Man addressed her.

Sensing the gravity of the situation, Buffy, Prue, and Phoebe hurriedly made their way to the truck, their collective instincts driving them forward. Just as they approached, the unexpected unfolded—the young girl started to get inexplicably sucked into the truck.

Amidst the chaos, Prue's voice carried a sense of urgency. "Alright, I mean, it's usually that my instinct is pretty much..." she began, her words cut short as the situation escalated.

Reacting swiftly, Buffy, Prue, and Phoebe acted as one, grabbing the girl's legs and pulling her back out of the clutches of the truck. However, the Ice Cream Man, realizing their intervention, poked his head out the window, a sinister presence in the midst of the unfolding events.

In an unsettling turn of events, Buffy, Prue, Phoebe, and the girl found themselves irresistibly drawn into the depths of the ice cream truck, sucked in by an unknown force.

The Playground

Buffy, Prue, and Phoebe found themselves transported to a wintry playground, its familiarity echoing Buffy's premonition with an eerie accuracy. The snow-covered surroundings created an atmosphere of both enchantment and trepidation.

As Buffy scanned their new surroundings, her sense of urgency heightened. "Prue!" she called out, her voice laden with concern and determination.

Prue scanned the area. "Alright, where's the little girl?" she inquired, her focus honed on the missing girl.

Phoebe shook her head, uncertainty etched on her face. "I don't know. I was holding onto her, and then..." Her words trailed off, emphasizing the mysterious nature of their predicament.

Realizing the urgency of the situation, Prue nodded in agreement with Buffy's assertion. "We have to find her," she affirmed, her determination unwavering.

Phoebe interjected, her words laced with a mix of frustration and pragmatism. "Well, first we have to figure out where the hell we are," she stated, the gravity of their circumstances evident.

Buffy's voice rang out, her conviction palpable. "Prue!" she exclaimed, capturing their attention. "I know where we are. This is the playground from my premonition," she announced, a mix of certainty and concern in her tone.

Seeking confirmation, Prue sought clarity. "You're sure?" she asked, her gaze locked onto Buffy's.

Buffy nodded resolutely, her belief unwavering. "Yeah, I'm positive. Which also likely means we're not in the ice cream truck," she concluded, highlighting the peculiar nature of their situation.

Phoebe's voice carried a hint of foreboding as she contemplated the worst-case scenario. "Or even worse, we are in the ice cream truck," she voiced, her concern deepening.

In the distance, the faint sounds of children reached their ears, adding an eerie layer to their surroundings. Phoebe's words hung in the air as she addressed Prue, her tone laced with apprehension. "Prue..."

Prue nodded, her senses heightened. "I know, I hear it too," she acknowledged.

Just as they began to grapple with their unsettling circumstances, a noise disrupted their thoughts, causing them to startle. Prue's resolve remained unyielding as she proclaimed, "Alright, if there's a way in, there's definitely a way out," her determination driving her to search for an exit.

However, their focus was abruptly interrupted as the ice cream man, now standing behind them, addressed them with an air of mystery. "Who are you?"

His sudden presence elicited a terrified scream from both Prue and Phoebe, while Buffy attempted to summon her powers, only to discover that they had been inexplicably stripped away. "No powers," she whispered, a realization that heightened the urgency and danger of their predicament.

Phoebe sighed with a mix of resignation and concern. "Why am I not surprised?" she muttered, expressing her lack of astonishment at the fact they didn't have any powers.

Suddenly a mysterious hole materialized above them, and the Ice Cream Man darted away, prompting their attention. Eerie sounds filled the air. "Okay, something tells me he was not running from us," Phoebe said referring to the Ice Cream Man.

Prue took charge, asserting their need to take action. "Okay, let's go." With determination, they began their escape, but their plans were interrupted by the sudden appearance of a young boy named Ari emerging from the bushes.

Desperation etched across his face. "Help! Please help me," he pleaded.

Confused, Buffy inquired, "Help you from what?"

Ari's response was haunting. "The Nothing."

"Is that the man that we just saw here?" Phoebe questioned.

Ari shook his head. "It's up there. It comes for you, for everybody. When it gets you, the only thing left where you stood is nothing. You never know when it's coming, and you never know who it wants. We try to hide, but it keeps finding us. Hurry, it's coming. In here." He sprinted toward the bushes, urging them to follow.

Buffy, Prue, and Phoebe trailed after Ari, seeking refuge within the dense foliage. They huddled down beside a sturdy tree, their senses heightened with a mix of fear and anticipation. As they settled into the hiding place, a girl emerged from the nearby bushes, desperately calling out to them.

"Wait for me!" the girl called after them.

Fear urged Prue to command, "Run!"

But before the girl could reach safety, she stumbled and fell.

"She's not gonna make it," Buffy said as she ran towards the girl.

In a state of shock and disbelief, Buffy rushed towards the fallen girl, only to be forcefully pulled back by Prue and Phoebe. "She's not gonna make it," she gasped, her voice filled with anguish and frustration.

Unbeknownst to Buffy the girl's fate had already been sealed and the girl was swiftly consumed by the engulfing Nothing.

Despairingly, Buffy's gaze lingered on the spot where the girl had vanished. "She was right there. I tried running at full Slayer speed, and it's like even that doesn't work here."

Phoebe, tried to console Buffy. "Buffy, it's not your fault. Our powers and your Slayer abilities don't work here, we know that now. We'll be better prepared next time."

Ari, still nearby, interjected with a note of vulnerability, seeking reassurance. "Does that mean that you're gonna save us?"

Prue's eyes widened in surprise. "Us?" she echoed, seeking clarification from Ari.

The young boy nodded earnestly. "There are others just like me, hiding, captured by the Ice Cream Man. If he doesn't want you here, that must mean you have the power to save us. We should go. The Nothing'll be coming back. It always does. Come on."

Payson's

Piper held the phone to her ear, her voice filled with a mix of frustration and concern. "Prue, it's me leaving you another message after leaving Phoebe and Buffy another message," she began, her words carrying a sense of urgency. "I tried you at work, but they said you never checked in after your shoot, so where are you guys?"

Her attention shifted as she noticed the guy who had been flirting with her the night before standing at the other end of the bar. With a hint of exasperation, she continued speaking into the phone, "Uh, look, so call me, or better yet, just show up and save me from having to perform an impending awkward rejection all by myself." She swiftly hung up as the guy made his way over to her.

"Hi, I'm Caleb," he introduced himself, extending his hand, which Piper reluctantly shook.

"Piper," she replied, introducing herself while inwardly longing for a way out of the conversation.

"I'm sort of new in town, and I'm looking to meet someone, someone special," Caleb expressed, his voice tinged with hope. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to interrupt your phone call to your..."

"Fiancé. Very large, very jealous fiancé," Piper interjected, quickly thinking on her feet as she moved around behind the bar.

"Really?" Caleb inquired, his curiosity piqued. "Does, does he ever come here?"

Piper chuckled lightly, trying to maintain her composure. "He-he, all the time."

"So he lives nearby?" Caleb probed further, seemingly undeterred.

Piper let out a sigh, her patience wearing thin. "Uh, look, I'm flattered and, you know, if this was another time or place, uh, maybe you'd like to meet one of my single sisters or my single cousin."

"You've got sisters and a cousin?" Caleb asked, his interest piqued once again. "Really? Well, maybe we could, all, uh, get together sometime. Does your fiancé like to hang out with your sisters and cousin, too?"

Piper groaned inwardly, feeling the weight of the situation. "Okay, uh, you know what? I don't know what kind of kinky stuff you're into, but there's a club down the street you might be more comfortable in. They've got cages and rubber floors, and a three for two special on Fridays."

Caleb's demeanor shifted, clearly taken aback by Piper's response. "I'm not looking for a club, Piper," he protested.

Piper let out another groan, growing increasingly frustrated. "And I'm not interested, Caleb, at least, in what I think you're interested in. So, if you don't mind, I have lots of stacking and stuff to do."

"I think you got the wrong..." Caleb began to say, but Piper narrowed her eyes, cutting him off. "Okay, okay, I'm gonna come back later when you're not, uh, stacking," he conceded, deciding it was best to retreat. He walked away, leaving Piper feeling relieved but still concerned about her Prue, Piper and Buffy's whereabouts.

Piper picked up the phone once again and dialed a familiar number. "Buffy, where are you guys?" she pleaded, hoping for a reassuring answer on the other end of the line.

The Playground

As they ventured forward, Phoebe couldn't shake off a sense of déjà vu. "Are we going in circles? This looks like the exact same playground," she observed.

Ari nodded, his expression filled with resignation. "In this place, everywhere you go looks the same. That's how the Nothing gets you. Only a few of us can find our way."

Phoebe playfully slapped Prue's arm, eliciting a gasp from her. "Why couldn't you get a boy-band song in your head like everybody else?" she quipped, trying to lighten the tension.

Buffy, however, was focused on the task at hand. "Alright, just tell us everything that you know about the mean Ice Cream Man," she urged.

Ari nodded, his voice filled with a mix of fear and determination. "Just that he's the one that put us here."

Prue sought further clarification. "Alright, so is he in charge of the Nothing?"

Ari shrugged, his young shoulders sagging with uncertainty. "I don't know. I guess. The others are gonna be so happy to see you. We've been wishing and hoping that someday someone would come and save us, and now you're here."

Phoebe reassured Ari with a warm smile. "Well, we're gonna do whatever we can to get you out of here. So why don't you take us to your friends?"

Ari nodded eagerly, leading the way. "Through here."

Phoebe's hand brushed against a swing, triggering a powerful premonition. She saw a vision of Prue as a little girl, her voice echoing from within the ice cream truck. The younger Prue rushed toward their father, who enveloped her in a tight embrace.

"What is it?" Prue questioned when Phoebe came out of her premonition.

Phoebe's eyes widened with realization. "I saw you here, as a little girl," she said, her gaze shifting between Prue and Buffy.

Buffy nodded, her expression mirroring Phoebe's understanding. "Exactly what I saw."

Phoebe turned to Prue, her voice filled with empathy. "You were here with Dad."

Buffy glanced at Phoebe, her eyes filled with curiosity. "Uncle Victor?" she asked, seeking confirmation from Phoebe, who nodded in response. "My premonition cut out before I saw his face."

Halliwell Manor

Piper's voice echoed with a mixture of frustration and worry as she called out for Leo once again. "Leo!" she exclaimed, her tone filled with impatience. She closed her eyes momentarily, gathering herself before trying again. "Leo," she repeated, and just as the words left her lips, Leo orbed in, causing her to open her eyes. "It's about time."

Leo offered an explanation, his voice tinged with a hint of defensiveness. "Piper, I was busy," he began.

"Well, don't you have orb-waiting?" she retorted, her annoyance apparent.

He sighed, attempting to clarify his situation. "Look, it's not fair to my other clients if I keep getting calls from you while I'm at work," Leo reasoned.

Piper met his gaze, her eyes filled with determination. "Look, I just have one teensy favor," she requested, emphasizing the urgency of her plea.

Leo raised an eyebrow, a hint of curiosity in his voice. "Why didn't you just call for Buffy?" he inquired.

Piper sighed, her worry spilling over. "Because she, Prue, and Phoebe never came back from lunch, and they haven't been returning any of my phone calls, and Buffy hasn't been answering those calls either."

Leo's expression shifted, his concern matching Piper's. "Buffy's not answering your calls?" he repeated, his voice laced with worry.

"No," Piper replied, her voice tinged with a mixture of frustration and anxiety. "I know I'm probably just being paranoid, but can't you do that check-the-supernatural-radar thing that you do?"

Leo's usual instinct to reassure Piper was overshadowed by his own concern for his daughter. He closed his eyes, focusing his energy on the task at hand.

"Leo?" Piper called out after a minute of tense silence, her patience wearing thin. He opened his eyes, his expression grave. "Not good?"

"I can't sense them anywhere, especially Buffy," he confessed, his voice filled with worry. "It's like they just..." He trailed off, the weight of their disappearance hanging heavily in the air.

"Disappeared," Piper finished his sentence, her voice barely above a whisper. The reality of the situation settled in, intensifying her sense of urgency and the need to find her missing sisters and Buffy.

The Playground

A group of children stood before Buffy, Prue, and Phoebe, their eyes filled with hope and desperation.

Prue took charge, addressing the children. "Alright, is that all of you?" she asked, her voice steady.

Ari stepped forward, his voice carrying a mix of sadness and resilience. "All that's left," he replied.

"Are you gonna save us?" A girl asked hopeful.

Phoebe interjected, her empathetic gaze fixed on the children. "We're going to try," she reassured them.

Buffy affirmed their commitment with a determined nod. "Alright, I think the only way out of here is to go through the person that..." Hers and Prue's eyes locked onto the Ice Cream Man standing nearby. "Put us here in the first place."

"The Ice Cream Man? But how are we supposed to find him?" Phoebe questioned, her brow furrowing in contemplation.

Prue smiled, a glimmer of determination in her eyes. "Something tells me that's not gonna be very hard."

Phoebe looked puzzled. "Why not?" she asked.

"Because he's right over there," Prue declared, pointing toward the retreating figure of the Ice Cream Man. "Okay, you kids stay here. We'll take care of the good humor man. Let's go," she instructed, and together with Buffy and Phoebe, they sprinted after the Ice Cream Man.

"There he is, by the slide," Buffy exclaimed, catching sight of the Ice Cream Man's distinctive figure.

Prue nodded, her mind racing with possibilities. "Alright, hey, wait. Look at that," she said, her eyes landing on a hole behind the slide. "What does that look like to you?"

Phoebe's voice carried a note of recognition. "The street from the back of the truck," she answered, her intuition guiding her.

Prue affirmed Phoebe's observation. "That's right."

Buffy contemplated their next move. "The way out. Okay, all that we need now are the, uh..." Her sentence trailed off as the children approached them.

Phoebe's face lit up with relief. "Hey, we were just coming to get you. Come on, we're going home," she said, extending a hand to the children, ready to lead them towards the path of escape.

Prue's urgency was palpable as she encouraged the children to make their escape. "Come on, come on, come on," she urged, her voice filled with determination. A girl swiftly climbed up the slide and leaped out of the truck, landing safely on the ground.

"One down," Buffy remarked with satisfaction as she witnessed the successful escape of one child. A boy followed suit, leaping outside the ice cream truck and joining the girl.

The Ice Cream Man's eyes widened in horror as he noticed the children fleeing. "No!" he exclaimed, his voice laced with desperation.

"Hurry! Get out!" Prue shouted, her sense of urgency intensifying.

Ari seized the opportunity, leaping out of the truck and joining the rest of the children who had already made their escape.

"I'm going next," Phoebe declared, determination shining in her eyes as she prepared to make her own leap to freedom.

Buffy nodded, her trust in Phoebe evident. "Okay, but go. Prue, you're next," she instructed, keeping a watchful eye on their surroundings.

The Ice Cream Man's panic escalated as he realized that his captives were slipping away. "Get away from the door!" he shouted, his voice filled with frustration.

Phoebe made her daring leap out of the truck, swiftly followed by Prue, who leaped with agility and determination. Finally, Buffy took her leap, ensuring that they all made it out of the clutches of the Ice Cream Man and into the open air, liberated from the confines of their surreal prison.

January 16, 1999 – Saturday

Streets of San Francisco

As everyone moved away from the ice cream truck, Phoebe called out to Ari. "Ari, come on, hurry up."

But before Ari could make his way toward them, the Ice Cream Man snatched him by the shirt, his grip tight and menacing. Ari retaliated by grabbing the ice cream man's wrists, causing searing pain to course through the Ice Cream Man's hands. In a swift motion, Ari pushed the Ice Cream Man back into the truck and closed the door, sealing him inside.

A collective gasp escaped the lips of Prue, Piper and Buffy as they witnessed Ari's unexpected display of power. "Oh," Prue managed to utter, astonishment etched across her face.

"Something tells me he's a demon," Buffy remarked, her Slayer instincts tingling with the realization.

The truth sank in, leaving Phoebe in disbelief. "Oh, my God," she whispered, her voice laced with a mixture of shock and awe.

Ari, now wearing a mischievous smile, let out a sly remark, his voice morphing into a more demonic tone. "Actually," he said, his words laced with a hint of darkness, "quite the opposite."

Prue immediately recognized the need to protect the other children from the demon's influence. "Okay, we need to keep him away from the other kids," she declared, her voice firm and determined.

But Ari shook his head, a knowing expression on his face. "I don't think they'll listen to you. You're not the boss of them," he stated, his words carrying a hint of defiance.

Curiosity getting the better of her, the girl couldn't help but ask, "Did you do it?"

Ari nodded, a glimmer of pride in his eyes. "Say thank you to the witches and the Slayer," he instructed the boy and girl who had been rescued alongside him.

In unison, the boy and girl broke into smiles and spoke their gratitude, their voices blending into a harmonious chorus. "Thank you."

As laughter bubbled from their lips and they scampered off, Prue, Piper and Buffy realized that all three children were demons.

Halliwell Manor

Piper and Leo sat on the plush couch in the tranquil setting of the conservatory, surrounded by lush greenery and blooming flowers. Their expressions revealed a mixture of worry and uncertainty as they discussed the situation at hand.

Leo, attempting to maintain a sense of optimism, spoke softly, his voice filled with a hint of reassurance. "Why don't we try focusing on the positive? They're together," he suggested, his eyes reflecting a glimmer of hope amidst the uncertainty.

Piper, her face etched with concern and fear, turned her gaze towards Leo, her voice tinged with a mixture of desperation and anguish. "How can you be positive when your own daughter is missing alongside Prue and Phoebe?" she questioned, her words weighted with the weight of a parent's love and worry.

Leo's expression softened, understanding the depth of Piper's worry. He reached out and took her hand in his, offering a comforting squeeze. "I know, Piper. It's difficult to stay positive in times like these, but we have to believe that they'll come back to us safely. They're strong and resourceful. We've seen them face countless challenges before."

Piper's eyes welled up with tears, a mix of fear and love for her Prue, Piper and Buffy overwhelming her. "I just can't shake this feeling of dread, Leo. It's like a knot in my stomach, tightening with each passing moment they're gone."

Leo pulled her closer, enveloping her in a protective embrace. "I understand, Piper. I feel it too. But we have to trust in their abilities and the bond they share. They've overcome incredible odds together, and they'll find their way back to us. Any minute now they are gonna walk through that door with a perfectly good explanation."

Leo's eyes widened in surprise as he watched Prue, Piper and Phoebe walk through the front door proving his statement true.

Piper's heart skipped a beat, a mix of relief and astonishment washing over her. She looked at Leo, his stunned expression mirroring her own. "Prue? Phoebe? Buffy?" Her voice quivered with a blend of emotions as she hurried over to embrace them. "Where..."

"Were we? Oh, I would like to know the same thing," Phoebe interjected, weariness evident in her voice.

Buffy let out a weary sigh as Leo walked over and wrapped his arms around her. "All that we know is that we have to go back," she added as she returned his embrace. "I'm okay, Dad."

Piper's brows furrowed in concern. "Wait a minute, is this demon or sibling-related?" she asked, her worry permeating her words.

Phoebe offered a tired smile, her voice tinged with a mixture of exhaustion and determination. "A little bit of both. We thought the good guys were bad guys, and in trying to vanquish them, we helped the real bad guys, which were dead ringers for good guys."

Leo, still stunned by their sudden reappearance, found his voice. "Was that English?" he asked, his confusion evident.

"Phoebe-speak," Buffy chimed in, offering a hint of humor to the tense atmosphere.

Prue nodded in agreement. "How about we fill in the blanks as we climb the stairs to the big books in the attic?" she suggested, her eyes scanning the room for consensus.

"Good idea," Buffy agreed, her weariness momentarily overshadowed by the urgency of the situation.

Together, they made their way upstairs, their footsteps echoing through the hallways. In the attic, both Book of Shadows lay open, waiting for them.

Buffy and Prue made their way over to the books and began flipping through the pages, searching for any information that could shed light on their recent adventure.

"So, he's a demonic dog catcher, and he uses ice cream as bait? Great news for the lactose intolerant demons," Piper remarked, a hint of sarcasm lacing her words.

Prue shook her head in frustration. "Nothing in here on the demon kids who escaped," she reported, disappointment evident in her voice as she closed the family's book.

Phoebe sighed heavily. "That we helped escape," she added, a tinge of guilt coloring her confession.

"But there's a whole page dedicated to the Ice Cream Man," Buffy interjected as she found the Ice Cream Man in her Book of Shadows, her voice filled with a mix of intrigue and urgency.

Piper's eyes widened, her attention drawn to the new revelation. "What?"

Together, they gathered around Buffy's book, eager to uncover the secrets it held.

"He is mortal," Buffy stated, her voice laced with certainty.

Phoebe's voice was filled with frustration and confusion as she questioned the changing nature of demons and innocents. "What? Do you remember when demons look like demons and innocents look like innocents? Who changed the rules on us?" Her curiosity piqued, she couldn't help but ask another question. "Wait, if he's mortal, how does he do it?"

Leo shook his head, signaling that there was more to the story. "It's not him," he stated firmly.

Prue, deep in thought, examined the contents of Buffy's book. Her eyes widened in realization as she made a significant discovery. "Bingo. It's the song. It says, 'The Ice Cream Man plays the Devil's Cord,' which is a series of notes that when sounded together specifically attract demon kids like moths to a flame."

Phoebe nodded in agreement, piecing together the puzzle. "More like moths to nothing. That's what's inside the truck, nothing. That's why he pulls them in there. The Nothing is the only thing that can vanquish them."

Piper chimed in, acknowledging the formidable nature of the demon kids. "So they might be pint-sized, but they're badasses."

Leo, seeking clarity, posed a question. "Alright, but if they couldn't get out on their own, how did you guys?"

Buffy revealed the unexpected twist. "Because he led us out. He tried to save us."

Phoebe added to Buffy's explanation. "And that is all she wrote, literally. The Nothing doesn't discriminate. Good or evil, tastes the same."

Piper sighed, realizing the dire situation they were in. "Now the only person who knows anything about the escaped meanies is stuck on the playground and is in serious danger of becoming lunch himself."

Understanding the limitations of their powers in this particular scenario, Prue acknowledged the futility of their attempts to reenter the truck. "Right, and our powers and Buffy's Slayer abilities don't play, not in this situation. I mean, Pheebs, Buffy and I tried everything to get back in, but the door wouldn't budge. And when I say it wouldn't, I mean it wouldn't budge. Buffy tried using all of her Slayer strength to force the door."

"Well, not everything." Phoebe reminded Prue and Buffy.

Curiosity sparked, Piper pressed for more information. "Hmm? Mind sharing with the room?"

Prue revealed the premonition Phoebe and Buffy had experienced. "Buffy and Phoebe had a premonition of me."

Buffy confirmed the details. "On the playground."

"Except in mine, Dad was also on the playground," Phoebe added.

Piper's curiosity grew, and she couldn't help but ask for further clarification. "You were there?" she asked glancing at Prue. "How? When?"

Phoebe had an idea of how to find answers. "Only one way to find out."

Prue interjected, acknowledging the potential usefulness of their father. "Right, but we don't even know where he is, never have, not even now, when he might actually come in handy."

Phoebe's smile hinted at a revelation. "He's here. Dad's in San Francisco. He's been here for the last three months." She glanced at Piper. "So it was him that your friend Cara saw. And it was an email from him that I got yesterday that I didn't tell you guys about. He's here, an instant message away."

Buffy expressed her surprise. "Wow."

Piper nodded, processing the information. "Phoebe, this is..."

Phoebe acknowledged the significance of the moment. "Huge. I know, and I'm sorry I didn't tell you guys that I've been keeping in touch with him, but I wanted to. It just never seemed like the right time. So I guess now is the right time. What do you think?"

Buffy's question summed up their options. "Do we have a choice?"

Phoebe retrieved her laptop, preparing to take action.

Payson's

Piper stood behind the counter, serving drinks to Buffy, Prue, and Phoebe. The atmosphere was tense, with a hint of sarcasm in her voice as she addressed the situation. "Welcome to Club Switzerland," she remarked, her tone laced with irony.

Prue, sitting at the bar, expressed her reservations. "Alright, could we just sort of cut the sarcasm there? I just didn't really feel like inviting him to our home for tea and cookies."

Phoebe interjected, emphasizing the importance of family. "He's our father, Prue... Buffy's uncle. This is family."

Prue shook her head, making her stance clear. "This is business, alright? And don't even think about giving me that look. If he gives us any useful information about the playground, I will be the very first one to thank him."

Phoebe nodded in understanding, adding her own perspective. "And then send him packing."

"These must be the sisters and cousin I've heard so much about," Caleb said as he approached the bar.

Piper acknowledged him. "Caleb, uh..."

Caleb acknowledged the situation with a nod. "And to think I almost didn't swing by today."

Piper's frustration became evident as she stood her ground. "Okay, you know what? I've tried, I really have, and you're not a bad guy, but obviously, the part of your brain meant to take a hint wasn't wired together properly because you're not taking any." Leo appeared behind Caleb, offering support. "This is a really bad time."

Caleb, undeterred, sought clarification. "Oh, okay, when would be a good time?"

Piper turned to Leo. "Help me," she pleaded.

Leo responded with a smile. "You got a phone call, it's in the office. Why don't I show you where that is?"

Caleb accepted the suggestion. "Uh, okay, do you mind if I ask you something?" As they walked away, his question remained unanswered.

Piper let out a sigh of relief. "Thank you." Prue, still trying to grasp the situation, looked confused. "Hey, you're just lucky nobody got killed, okay? You hear what I'm saying?"

Just then, Victor descended the stairs, catching the attention of the girls. They stared at him, unsure of how to react. "Well, would it be too much to ask for a hug?" he inquired, his tone filled with hope.

Phoebe, moved by the presence of her father, stood up and embraced him. "It's good to see you, daddy."

Victor acknowledged the warmth of the reunion. "Oh, baby, you have no idea." He looked around before glancing at Piper. "Wow, what a place. This is yours, Piper?"

Piper shook her head, redirecting the credit to Buffy. "Hers."

Victor furrowed his brow, clearly puzzled. "How?"

Buffy offered a reassuring smile, ready to explain the situation. "It's a long story. Unofficially, the club is mine. Officially, I don't get it until I turn 21 because of the liquor license. And as for how I can be in here, Piper managed to obtain permits that allow teens to enter while still selling alcohol."

Victor's face lit up with approval. "It's terrific. The four of you together. I hardly know where to begin."

Prue, always direct and focused, made a suggestion. "Well, I have a suggestion. How about we just cut to the chase?"

Piper, wanting to temper the urgency, interjected. "Uh, Prue, he just got here. Can't that wait, like, five minutes?"

Prue, embracing her practical side, defended her approach. "He's a businessman, Piper. I would think that he would appreciate that. We can do the whole family-bonding thing once the work is done, alright? So, how about you just tell us everything that you know about the playground?"

Victor, still trying to catch up, questioned, "What playground?"

Phoebe let out a sigh, trying to convey the urgency of the situation. "Dad, Buffy and I both had a premonition. We know you were there."

Buffy nodded in agreement. "And somebody's hurt, so we need to get back inside."

Victor, with a dismissive tone, replied, "Oh, let it go."

Prue, determined to rectify their mistake, shook her head. "That may be your motto, but we made a mistake, and we would really like to fix it. So just tell us how you got in, and we can handle it from there. We are big witches now."

"Yeah, but you're still my girls. And Buffy is still my niece," Victor affirmed, his voice filled with a mixture of love and regret.

Prue's expression turned stern as she addressed him. "Victor."

"Prue," Victor responded, a note of understanding in his tone. The room fell into a brief silence before he mustered the courage to continue. "Alright. Yes, I was there. I went in after you, and it was the last thing I ever did as your father. You were home with a cold. You must've been about six. Your mom had some errands to run, so she took your sisters with her and left me home in charge of you."

He paused for a moment, reflecting on the memories. "You had asked me to read you a story. You used to love that. But the cold was too much for you. You only lasted a page or two. When I left your room, you were still sleeping."

Prue listened intently, her gaze fixed on her father.

"I never heard you come downstairs," he continued. "You must've been looking for a glass of water or me. And that must've been when you heard it."

Understanding dawned on Prue's face. "The song."

Victor nodded, his voice tinged with remorse. "I mean, I heard a truck drive by and stop a few doors down, but I didn't think anything of it. It was an ice-cream truck. How was I to know? But somehow you did. And you must've gone into the living room, following that song. And that's when you saw it happen. A little boy, not much older than yourself."

Prue's memories aligned with her father's account. "Yeah. He was standing by the truck, and something pulled him in. He was so scared."

"And you ran out to help him," Victor acknowledged, his eyes filled with a mix of sorrow and admiration.

Buffy chimed in, drawing parallels between the past and present. "Just like yesterday."

"When I saw your bed empty, I lost my mind. The door was wide open, there was a truck parked outside. I mean, I had no idea what I was getting into, but I just had to go," Victor confessed, his voice filled with genuine remorse.

Piper couldn't help but smile, her heart touched by the revelation. "You saved Prue."

Victor nodded, acknowledging the truth. "But I lost the three of you. And, of course, it's the reason I didn't know about Buffy till two years ago."

Phoebe nodded, interjecting with her own recollection. "You said that you left because Grams wanted us to use our powers, and you didn't."

Victor nodded, confirming her statement. "That's the truth. And now you know the whole story. I mean, when your grandmother and Patience found out, I had just brought Prue back, but being your father wasn't good enough. But how could I protect you from something like that happening again when I didn't have powers?"

Buffy picked up on a crucial point. "Okay, so the Book said the Ice Cream Man is mortal. That's why he can go through the door and we can't, right?"

Piper turned to her father, making a heartfelt plea. "So, what do you say, Dad? We need your help."

Streets of San Francisco

Buffy, Prue, and Piper walked down the street, with Phoebe and Victor walking a few steps behind them. The tension in the air was palpable as Prue voiced her concerns.

"You know, if this doesn't work, I can look back and pinpoint the exact moment where it all went wrong," Prue expressed, her tone filled with apprehension.

Piper shook her head, attempting to bring some perspective. "And that moment's name would be Dad? Prue, you've got to admit, if he can open the door, then we kind of need him."

Prue let out a weary sigh, understanding the practicality of the situation. "It's all about word choice, Piper. We don't need him; we need his utter lack of power, right? He opens the door, we save the day, and we get on with our lives. It's a one-time group effort."

"Glad to see you have a healthy handle on the situation, Prue," Buffy couldn't help but interject, sensing the underlying dynamics at play. She looked back at Victor, contemplating her own feelings of resentment toward him. While some of which was her disappointment of losing a potential father-figure before she had a chance to really get to know him. She was also sure that some of it may have actually stemmed from Prue's strong dislike of Victor.

"I think I do," Prue replied, her voice laced with a hint of determination.

0 – 0 – 0 – 0 – 0

Phoebe raised an eyebrow, seeking clarification. "So, yeah, I was surprised to hear from you, but why did you think I wouldn't write you back?"

Victor nodded, a tinge of remorse in his eyes. "Because as far back as you can remember, I've done very little right by you. I mean, if a guy, let alone your own dad, walks out on you once, maybe you'll give him a second chance, but he appears to make a habit of it..."

Buffy joined them, taking her place beside Phoebe, curious to hear the conversation unfold.

"I never thought you left by choice, Dad," Phoebe reassured him, her voice filled with compassion.

Victor's smile grew warmer, touched by her understanding. "Thank you, Phoebe."

"Uncle Victor," Buffy interjected, wanting to express her own thoughts.

Victor playfully wagged his finger at Buffy, a mix of fondness and seriousness in his eyes. "Do you remember what I said when last we saw each other?"

Buffy nodded, a genuine smile spreading across her face. "I remember. I didn't know if you still felt that way."

"I do," Victor affirmed, his voice resolute. "You may not be my daughter by blood. And I may be officially through my marriage, before the divorce, to Patty, your uncle. But I stand by what I said. I want you to think of me as your father."

"Okay," Buffy conceded, her heart touched by his words. She hoped that Leo didn't mind, she didn't want to hurt his feelings, knowing he was her biological father. She reached under her shirt, retrieving a locket hidden beneath it. "Recognize this?"

Victor's smile widened, a nostalgic gleam in his eyes. "I gave it to your mother for Christmas one year."

Buffy nodded, her eyes glinting with emotion. "I haven't taken it off since I saw that video you left for me last time you were here. Mom must have really liked you."

Victor's nod carried a mixture of pride and nostalgia. "Of all of Patty's boyfriends in high school and up until she met me, I was the one Patience actually approved of the most. Of course, your Grams didn't approve because I was a mortal. But Patience did, and she actually chipped in to pay for mine and Patty's wedding when your Grams didn't."

A warm smile spread across Buffy's face. "That's nice. I wish you had been around more. I'm sure you have lots more stories of my mom."

Victor's eyes sparkled with memories. "I do. You know what, when we're done here, give me your email address. I'll write to you just like I do with Phoebe."

Buffy's smile grew, touched by the prospect. "I'd like that."

As they walked into an alley, the surroundings appeared devoid of any signs of the truck they were pursuing.

"Okay, well, this is it," Prue stated, her voice tinged with uncertainty.

"But there's nothing here," Piper observed, her brows furrowed in confusion.

Phoebe's voice carried a hint of worry. "Wait, we lost the truck?"

Suddenly, the demon kids emerged from behind them, forming unexpected company.

"Yeah, but we gained company," Buffy remarked, her tone laced with determination.

Without warning, the demon girl unleashed a powerful blast, sending the group flying backward. Laughter erupted from the demon kids, reveling in their superiority.

"Oh, those kids so need to be grounded," Prue grumbled as the mischievous youngsters scampered away. "I don't get it. Alright, why pick a fight and then run?"

Piper's urgency broke through. "Speaking of running, we should run because they're getting away."

Prue held her ground, her eyes fixed on the missing truck. "No, we can't do that because we have to get back into the truck."

Phoebe disagreed, shaking her head. "Not all of us. Come on, Piper."

Buffy nodded, her determination unwavering. "I'll stay with you, Prue, and Dad."

Phoebe and Piper swiftly took off, their footsteps echoing in the distance.

"Nice work," Victor complimented, acknowledging their efforts.

Prue sighed, her frustration evident. "Alright, lost modes of transport are definitely not my forte. So..."

Victor offered a comforting nod. "Prue, sometimes things in life happen for a reason, no magic involved. The truck's been towed."

Their eyes landed on a prominent No Parking/Tow Away sign, realization dawning upon them.

Buffy shook her head, a mix of disappointment and self-reflection. "Why didn't I see that?"

Impound Lot

Prue exerted herself, struggling to remove the stubborn chain from the gate that led into the impound lot. Victor, concerned for his daughter, approached her with a gentle offer of assistance. "Need a hand?" he asked, his voice filled with genuine concern.

Buffy, aware of the tension between Prue and Victor, held out her hands, offering an alternative solution. "Prue, I could just flame us over," she suggested, hoping to alleviate some of the strain.

Prue's stern expression conveyed her mixed emotions as she glared at both her father and her cousin. "No, I don't need a hand, I don't need anything," she declared, her words laced with a touch of bitterness.

Buffy let out a sigh, understanding that Prue's rejection was primarily aimed at Victor, but it still stung her a little. She knew the weight of the strained relationship between Prue and Victor.

Finally, after a persistent effort, Prue managed to remove the chain, and they proceeded into the impound lot, passing rows of parked cars as they made their way toward the foreboding Ice Cream Truck.

Buffy positioned herself beside the truck, her gaze fixed on the traditional serving window that was typically used by ice cream vendors. "This is where he pulled us in, but since he's still trapped inside, I'm guessing the only way in is through the exit," she reasoned, stepping to the rear of the truck. With her Slayer strength, she attempted to open the door, but it remained resolute, denying her entry. Realizing that Victor had been right and that his presence was crucial, Buffy looked at him with a nod. "No go. Okay, your turn."

Prue let out a sigh, her focus shifting to Victor, who stood nearby. She studied his face, seeking reassurance as she voiced her doubts. "You can do it, right?" she inquired, hoping for a glimmer of confidence.

Victor hesitated, uncertainty flickering in his eyes. "Well, let's just say that chasing demons is not exactly my day job," he confessed, acknowledging his limitations.

Prue offered a supportive smile, placing her hand reassuringly on his arm. "Alright, it helps if you specifically focus on the task," she advised, her voice gentle yet firm. "Don't think about what's behind the door; that'll only distract you. Picture yourself opening the door. See yourself opening the door, then just do it."

Victor absorbed Prue's advice, taking a moment to gather his resolve. With determination, he directed his attention to the door. His hand hovered over the handle, and he summoned the strength to open it. "Thanks for the advice," he expressed his gratitude, appreciating Prue's guidance.

"Just doing my job," Prue replied nonchalantly, offering a casual shrug. She took the lead, fearlessly leaping through the door. Buffy and Victor followed closely behind.

The Playground

The snow-covered playground served as the battleground for Buffy, Prue, and Victor's urgent mission to locate and rescue the Ice Cream Man before the engulfing Nothing consumed him. The air crackled with an eerie energy, a tangible reminder of the supernatural forces at play. Their eyes darted across the wintry landscape, scanning for any sign of their quarry, their determination shining through.

Buffy, Prue and Victor arrived on the snow covered playground coming down the slide from the portal. The air crackled with an eerie energy, a tangible reminder of the supernatural forces at play. Their eyes darted across the wintry landscape, scanning for any sign of the Ice Cream Man, their determination shining through to find him before the Nothing consumed him.

Buffy's gaze locked onto the spot where they had last seen the Ice Cream Man, a knot of worry forming in her stomach. "This would be a lot easier if things stopped moving. We left him right here. Unless…" Her voice trailed off, anxiety seeping into her words as she considered the dire possibilities.

Victor's voice pierced through the tense atmosphere, his realization hanging heavily in the air. "The Nothing," he declared, meeting Prue's and Buffy's eyes in a solemn connection. "Even mortals have memories. I saw what it did to those children. I know what it could've done to him and to us if we don't act quickly."

Prue nodded, her expression a blend of determination and concern. "Yeah, well, at least we agree upon one thing," she remarked, her voice carrying the weight of their shared mission and the urgency to set things right.

As they continued their search, a voice shattered the stillness, causing their attention to shift. "Make that two and get out while you still can," the Ice Cream Man's voice echoed, laced with a mix of warning and resignation. His presence, previously unnoticed, sent a jolt of surprise through the trio.

Buffy's face contorted with remorse as the realization of their mistake washed over her. "Oh, my Goddess. I am so sorry. We didn't know," she apologized, her words dripping with genuine regret and compassion.

The Ice Cream Man's expression softened, understanding shining in his eyes. "The mistake was mine," he admitted, his voice carrying a tinge of regret. "I accidentally took the Charmed Ones and the Charmed Slayer. You thought you were saving innocents. How could you know they weren't?" His words carried a bittersweet truth, acknowledging the complexities of their predicament.

Prue's brows furrowed, her curiosity ignited by the Ice Cream Man's enigmatic words. "How did you know?" she inquired, her voice carrying a sense of intrigue mingled with urgency.

A wry smile graced the Ice Cream Man's lips, a glimmer of knowing in his eyes. "Let's just say we both have friends in high places," he replied cryptically. "The moment I mistakenly pulled you, your sister, and your cousin in, I was alerted and sent to save you."

Buffy let out a sigh filled with regret, realizing the debt they owed to the Ice Cream Man. "And you get this in return," she acknowledged, her voice laden with remorse for the unintended consequences of their actions.

Victor's words interrupted their momentary exchange, his eyes scanning their surroundings for any sign of the encroaching threat. "It's getting closer," he alerted them, his voice laced with a sense of urgency that propelled them into action.

Determined, Prue extended a hand towards the Ice Cream Man, offering support and assistance. "Alright, so you got us out of here once, now it's our turn," she declared, her resolute tone reflecting her unwavering determination as she and Buffy aided the Ice Cream Man, their resolve unwavering.

Gratitude and urgency mingled in the Ice Cream Man's gaze as he looked into Prue's eyes. "The children, you must get them back inside the playground," he implored, his words resonating with a profound sense of urgency.

"We will, and you're going to help us do it," Buffy asserted with unwavering confidence, embodying the strength and determination of her multiple roles as a witch, a Whitelighter, and the Slayer.

But the Ice Cream Man's eyes conveyed a mixture of acceptance and sacrifice. "I disabled the truck," he confessed, his voice weighed down by the gravity of his decision. "You'll need to fix it, play the song."

"Don't you dare. You stay with us," Prue pleaded, her vulnerability breaking through her resolute facade as she desperately clung to the hope of preserving the Ice Cream Man's life.

The Ice Cream Man's words echoed with selflessness as he defied her plea, his voice filled with a sense of finality. "Inside..." he murmured, his voice trailing off. Prue nodded in understanding, her determination steeling her resolve as she retrieved a small glass tube from the Ice Cream Man's shirt pocket. "It's for the truck," he confirmed.

Prue's grip tightened around the small glass tube, her mind racing against time.

"It's almost here," Buffy warned, a sense of urgency lacing her words. "You go first, okay?"

"I can be replaced, you two can't," the Ice Cream Man responded, his voice imbued with an unwavering bravery. With a final act of self-sacrifice, he pushed Buffy, Prue, and Victor away from him, willingly offering himself as a sacrificial lamb to the engulfing Nothing.

"No!" Prue and Buffy's anguished cries pierced the air, their hearts breaking as they bore witness to the Ice Cream Man's ultimate sacrifice.

Victor's voice cut through their grief, his urgency breaking through their sorrow. "Prue, Buffy, it'll be back," he warned, his tone filled with a desperate plea. "We've got to get out now! You two didn't fail. The only way either of you fail is if we don't get back and do what he asked. Come on." His words resounded with a sense of urgency, jolting Prue and Buffy out of their grief-stricken stupor, reminding them of the imminent danger that awaited them.

Streets of San Francisco

On the dimly lit sidewalk that snaked its way toward the impound lot, Piper and Phoebe moved with calculated stealth, their forms melting into the shadows cast by the faint glow of streetlights. The air crackled with tension, the weight of their mission pressing down upon them, amplifying every sound and every heartbeat.

Piper's voice sliced through the silence, a tinge of exasperation lacing her words. "Why don't they ever run into a well-lit room with nowhere to hide?" she quipped, frustration etched into her tone as she lamented the perpetual advantage the demon kids seemed to possess.

Phoebe's eyes gleamed with unwavering determination as she retorted, her voice infused with a mixture of confidence and anticipation. "Well, we know they're somewhere, and I know what's gonna give them away," she declared, her words carrying a sense of certainty and excitement.

And then, the moment arrived. Piper and Phoebe's gazes locked onto the group of demon kids, their presence sending a shiver down their spines. The shadows seemed to deepen around them, as if the darkness itself aligned with their sinister purpose.

Ari conversed with the two who had escaped alongside him, his voice laced with a sinister allure. "How badly did you want to get off that playground? And now we're free," he taunted, his words dripping with a twisted sense of satisfaction. "Don't you want to stay free?"

Piper's brow furrowed, a glimmer of empathy seeping into her voice. "Why do I get the feeling these kids weren't looking to pick a fight with the Charmed Ones or the Charmed Slayer?" she pondered aloud, her words tinged with a mixture of curiosity and concern. "They were just looking for the truck, and we crashed their party."

Phoebe's eyes widened as realization dawned upon her. "But we're like a mile ahead," she exclaimed, a flicker of relief coloring her words. "I mean, we know where it is."

Ari's evil smirk revealed his cunning. "It's in the junkyard," he disclosed, his voice dripping with dark satisfaction, reveling in the revelation that shattered their momentary respite.

"Oh. Did I say a mile?" Phoebe grimaced, her previous relief giving way to a renewed sense of urgency.

Piper, ever the strategist, assessed the situation. "Okay, so they know, but it's four of us versus three of them," she reasoned, her voice filled with determination, determined to find strength in their numerical advantage.

They watched as three more demon kids arrived.

Phoebe's voice dripped with irony as she responded to Piper's optimism. "You were saying?" she retorted dryly. "It's now four of us against six of them," she noted, the reality of their outnumbered predicament settling heavily upon her.

Ari's voice carried an unwavering resolve. "All that's left for us to do is destroy the truck," he affirmed, his words brimming with a malevolent determination.

Piper and Phoebe exchanged a knowing glance, the gravity of their next actions weighing heavily upon them. Prue, Buffy, and Victor's safety hinged on their success.

"Let's go," Phoebe declared, her voice resolute and unwavering, ready to face the impending danger head-on.

Impound Lot

Within minutes, Piper and Phoebe stepped foot into the impound lot, the scent of rusted metal and discarded vehicles permeating the air, a tangible reminder of the desolate setting they found themselves in. The moon's pale glow cast long shadows, creating an eerie ambiance that heightened their senses.

Piper's voice quivered with a hint of apprehension as she surveyed their surroundings, her eyes darting from one dark corner to another. "Do you think they're here already?" she asked, her voice laced with caution, the tension coiling within her.

Laughter, eerie and haunting, pierced through the stillness, reverberating off the metal carcasses. A chill ran down their spines as the sound echoed around them, a twisted symphony of malevolence.

"I would definitely say yes," Phoebe replied, her voice tinged with a mix of determination and concern. She scanned the area, her gaze wary of hidden threats. "Do you think they know that we're here already?" she pondered aloud, her words hanging in the air like a silent challenge.

"Probably," Piper answered, her tone a mixture of vigilance and anticipation. Her eyes narrowed as she tried to discern the source of the laughter, the unnerving echoes taunting them. "Okay, do they do that because they think it's funny, or just to freak us out?" she wondered aloud, her voice resonating with a blend of curiosity and unease, mirroring the strange atmosphere surrounding them.

Phoebe nodded, acknowledging the possibility. "Probably both," she agreed, her voice firm with resolve. "We have to hold them off until Dad, Buffy, and Prue get out."

Piper's voice brimmed with a mix of cautious optimism. "Okay, I think they're surrounding us," she warned, a sense of urgency seeping into her words, their impending predicament closing in on them.

However, Phoebe refused to succumb to fear. Her voice carried a steadfast determination. "No, don't say that," she urged, her tone unwavering. "We're not surrounded until they're all around us." Drawing strength from their shared power as witches, she reminded herself and Piper of the formidable force they embodied. "Okay, how bad could the odds be?" she questioned, her voice infused with a blend of bravery and hope. "I mean, sure, there's a whole bunch of them, but you and I are witches, right?" she reaffirmed, seeking solace in their abilities.

Their confidence, however, was abruptly shattered. Without warning, a demon kid launched a barrage of car parts, striking Piper with precision, sending her spiraling into unconsciousness. Panic welled up within Phoebe as she rushed to her sister's side, the weight of concern etched on her face.

Cradling Piper against a nearby car, Phoebe's voice quivered with worry. "Piper! Are you okay?" she pleaded, her words a mixture of genuine concern and underlying fear. With delicate care, Phoebe propped Piper against the cold metal, her determination unyielding despite the setback. Her voice quivered with a defiant edge as she addressed her adversaries. "Alright, you little brats. Bring it on," she challenged, her words dripping with unwavering determination, refusing to let fear dictate their fate.

The Playground

Victor, Buffy, and Prue found themselves standing at the base of a towering slide, its metallic surface gleaming faintly in the dim light that permeated the surreal playground. Prue's eyes scanned the towering structure, her voice resolute as she raised her hand, pointing upwards. "Up at the top, that's our way out," she declared, her words carrying a hint of unwavering determination.

As Buffy and Victor turned their attention towards the slide, their eyes widened as Prue's voice cut through the air. "Daddy! Buffy!" she shouted, her voice carrying the weight of imminent danger.

Buffy and Victor swiftly pivoted to face Prue, their hearts pounding in their chests as they recognized the gravity of the situation. The swirling force of the Nothing threatened to engulf Prue, its insidious pull tugging at her with relentless persistence, as if eager to consume her entirely.

Reacting with instinctive speed, Buffy and Victor extended their hands, their fingers gripping onto Prue's arms with unwavering determination. "Hold on, Prue!" Victor urged, his voice brimming with steadfast resolve and protective love.

"Daddy, I need you," Prue pleaded, her voice trembling with a mix of fear and dependency, her eyes shimmering with unshed tears.

"We've got you," Victor reassured Prue, his voice resonating with an unshakeable sense of commitment. "We're not leaving without you," he affirmed, his words carrying the weight of his unwavering dedication to his daughter's safety and well-being.

"Dad," Prue cried again, her voice laden with desperation and a profound need for reassurance.

"We've got you. Oh, Goddess," Buffy responded, her voice a firm yet tender echo of reassurance. Together, she and Victor exerted their combined strength, their grip on Prue solidifying as they pulled her back from the precipice of the engulfing Nothing, their determination to keep her safe shining through.

Prue's gaze locked onto her father's, gratitude and appreciation gleaming in her eyes. In that silent exchange, she conveyed her profound thanks for his unwavering presence and the sacrifice he made to protect her from the clutches of the encroaching darkness.

With renewed determination, the trio embarked on their ascent, their movements swift and purposeful as they scrambled up the metallic slide. The adrenaline coursing through their veins propelled them forward, propelling them towards the pinnacle of their escape. As they neared the apex, their hearts pounding with a mixture of anticipation and exhilaration, they mustered their strength for one final push. In unison, they leaped through the awaiting portal, their bodies propelled by a surge of willpower and determination, leaving the perilous realm of the playground behind them.

Impound Lot

Prue, Buffy, and Victor leaped out of the back of the truck, their arrival met with a chilling sight. A menacing circle of demon kids surrounded Phoebe, who had been forcefully knocked off her feet by the powerful demon girl, her body sprawled on the ground.

Reacting with lightning speed, Prue extended her hand, tapping into the depths of her telekinetic abilities. With a surge of focused power, she sent the demon girl hurtling backward, creating a safe space around her vulnerable family. Her eyes locked with her father's, a sense of urgency in her gaze. "Alright, any ideas on what to do with this?" she inquired, her voice infused with a fierce determination, referring to the glass tube she had retrieved earlier.

Victor, drawing from his years of experience tinkering and fixing his ex-wife's car, rallied his thoughts. His eyes flickered with concentration as he formulated a plan. "Eight years of fixing your mother's car has given me one," he replied, his voice laced with a mixture of confidence and concentration. He held the glass tube in his hand, ready to put his plan into action.

Buffy, aware of the peril they faced, glanced at Prue and then turned her attention to Victor. A sincere expression of determination crossed her face as she spoke with unwavering resolve. "I'll protect Dad," she declared, her voice carrying the weight of her commitment to keeping Victor safe.

Prue nodded, her eyes reflecting the profound bond she, Piper and Phoebe shared with Buffy, recognizing the strength of their sisterly connection. "Alright, we'll buy you two sometime," she proclaimed, fully aware of the dangerous task they were about to undertake. She extended her hand towards Phoebe, offering support. "Hey, need a hand?" she asked, her voice laced with concern and determination, ready to lift Phoebe back onto her feet and stand by her side.

Phoebe smirked in response to Prue's remark. "I need about ten," she quipped, her voice carrying a mix of determination and playful banter.

Prue, refusing to allow the demon girl a chance to regain her balance, swiftly intervened. With a focused gaze, she raised her hand, her fingers slicing through the air with precision. "Oh, you need a little time out, missy!" she exclaimed, her power surging forth as she sent the demon girl soaring through the air once again. The force of Prue's attack left the demon girl momentarily incapacitated, providing a temporary respite in the midst of the chaotic confrontation.

Meanwhile, Victor and Buffy worked in tandem, their attention fixed on the front of the van. Opening the hood of the truck, they meticulously searched for the proper location to insert the glass tube. Their eyes scanned the intricate machinery, seeking the rightful place where the tube belonged.

Amidst the chaos, a sudden burst of flame erupted from the demon boy's hand, hurtling towards Prue and Phoebe. Reacting with lightning speed, they sought refuge behind a nearby car, narrowly evading the fiery attack. Prue's urgency and concern were palpable as she urged her father, "Oh, Dad, hurry!" Her voice carried a sense of urgency, emphasizing the need for swiftness and precision.

As Ari approached Victor and Buffy, a fireball formed in Buffy's hand, ready to be unleashed. With a determined flick of her wrist, she flung the fireball towards Ari, sending him hurtling through the air. The force of the attack momentarily incapacitated him, providing a brief respite in their battle.

Undeterred by the perilous circumstances, Victor continued to work with unwavering focus. With deft movements, he secured the glass tube in its designated position, ensuring its proper connection. As the tube found its rightful place, a haunting melody filled the air, its ethereal notes carrying a sense of both foreboding and hope. The tune signaled the imminent convergence of forces, beckoning Ari and the demon kids towards the truck.

Drawn by the music, Ari and his companions approached the vehicle, their steps synchronized with the enchanting melody. Without warning, they were suddenly pulled into the depths of the truck, their forms vanishing into the swirling vortex of the portal.

As Victor and Buffy made their way around the truck, joining Prue and Phoebe, Piper began to stir, slowly regaining consciousness. Victor expressed his gratitude to Buffy, his voice filled with appreciation. "Thanks, Buffy," he said, a genuine warmth resonating in his words.

Buffy, in turn, leaned over and placed a kiss on Victor's cheek. "You're welcome, Dad," she replied, the bond between them evident in her affectionate gesture.

Phoebe observed her father, her expression a tapestry of emotions. A soft smile curved her lips as she spoke, her voice infused with warmth and acceptance. "Welcome to our world, Dad," she said, her words extending an invitation to him, a recognition of their shared journey.

Fully awake and reoriented, Piper let out a sigh of relief as she regained her footing. Her eyes met Buffy's, and she instinctively reached out, grasping her hand for support as she stood up. A playful glint sparkled in Piper's eyes as she spoke, her tone lighthearted. "When I decide I want to have kids, you remind me of this day," she mused, a touch of humor coloring her words.

Buffy chuckled in response. "Don't worry, I won't," she assured, their exchange reflecting the unbreakable bond they shared.

At that moment, Leo and Caleb entered the impound lot, their arrival raising eyebrows and prompting questions from the group. Piper directed her inquiry to Leo, seeking clarification. "Leo, what are you doing here? Why did you bring him here?" she asked, her voice tinged with curiosity.

Leo maintained his calm demeanor as he offered an explanation. "He's supposed to be here, Piper," he responded, his tone carrying an air of certainty that left no room for doubt.

Caleb, wearing a grateful smile, interjected with heartfelt appreciation. "You fixed my wheels. Thanks," he expressed, acknowledging the assistance they had provided, his words resonating with gratitude and sincerity.

"Caleb's the new Ice Cream Man," Leo clarified, shedding light on the unfolding events, his voice carrying a sense of revelation. "He filled me in back at the club. Everything has happened the way it was meant to. He was sent here to take over. It's his time."

Piper's curiosity heightened, her inquisitive nature compelling her to seek further understanding. "So, your interest in me..." she trailed off, leaving the question hanging in the air, her eyes locked on Caleb, awaiting his response.

Caleb, his tone sincere and straightforward, dispelled any uncertainties. "Strictly professional," he clarified, his words carrying a reassuring tone. "I was lost, but until I was sure who you were, I couldn't just come up and say, 'Hey, are you a Charmed One?' Because I need you to take me to my demon-catching truck. Speaking of which, I'm running kind of late as it is, so, uh, thank you. All of you."

Leo offered his well wishes to Caleb, acknowledging the unique path that lay ahead of him. "Good luck," he conveyed, his voice filled with genuine goodwill and support for the newly anointed Ice Cream Man.

With his mission clear, Caleb entered the truck, ready to embrace his newfound destiny. As he disappeared into the vehicle, Phoebe couldn't help but inject a hint of humor into the situation. "Something tells me I'm never gonna look at a Creamsicle quite the same way," she quipped, eliciting a chuckle from Buffy.

January 17, 1999 – Sunday

Halliwell Manor

Prue, Phoebe, Piper, and Buffy stood in the foyer, their expressions a reflection of the bittersweet moment that unfolded before them. The atmosphere was charged with emotions, a blend of sadness and hope, as Victor prepared to bid his goodbyes. The air held a mix of closure and anticipation for what lay ahead.

"Well, I guess this is goodbye again," Victor acknowledged, his voice carrying a touch of melancholy.

Phoebe held onto him tightly, expressing her heartfelt gratitude. "Thanks, Dad. Keep writing," she encouraged, her words filled with warmth and appreciation.

"You don't have to keep secrets anymore, Phoebe," Victor stated, his voice holding a sense of relief and understanding.

Phoebe nodded, meeting her father's gaze with a newfound sense of freedom. "I know," she affirmed, her voice resonating with a mixture of confidence and self-assurance.

Victor's concern extended to Piper, and he embraced her in a heartfelt hug, their connection evident. "What's the story with this Leo character anyway? How much does he know about you?" he inquired, his curiosity shining through.

Piper's smile revealed her deep affection for Leo as she responded. "Uh, just about everything," she confessed, her voice carrying a sense of contentment and happiness.

The depth of their connection did not go unnoticed by Victor, and his expression softened. "Oh, so he's..." he began, leaving the unspoken words hanging in the air.

Piper's smile widened, her voice filled with joy as she completed his thought. "He's a wonderful man, yes," she affirmed, her words resonating with love and admiration.

Victor's protective instincts emerged as he contemplated his daughter's happiness. "Well, still, I think I should have a little chat with him sometime," he suggested, his tone both lighthearted and sincere.

Piper interjected, feeling a mix of amusement and embarrassment. "Dad..." she trailed off, her cheeks slightly flushed.

Victor's smile grew wider, his words reassuring. "It's a father's prerogative," he stated, his tone conveying familiarity and acceptance. He then turned his attention to Buffy, his niece and surrogate daughter.

Buffy wrapped her arms around Victor, her voice filled with a touch of longing. "Do you have to go, Dad? After all, my birthday is only a couple of days away," she expressed, her words carrying a mix of affection and a desire for his continued presence in her life.

"I wish I could stay," Victor expressed with a touch of longing, his embrace with Buffy filled with warmth and affection. He extended a wrapped gift to her, holding it out in his hands. "Open it after I leave. It's for when I return. Till then, like Phoebe, keep writing, okay?" he requested, his voice carrying a sense of anticipation.

"It will be my pleasure, Dad," Buffy affirmed, her voice resonating with sincerity.

Drawing closer, Victor leaned in and pressed a gentle kiss on Buffy's forehead, his love for her evident in the tender gesture. Finally, he turned his attention to Prue, their bond holding a special significance.

"I'm not saying goodbye," Prue declared with determination, her voice filled with unwavering love and optimism.

The immediate reactions from Buffy, Piper, and Phoebe were a mix of surprise and affection. "Prue!" they exclaimed simultaneously, their voices expressing a range of emotions.

Prue reaffirmed her words, her voice carrying a sense of hope and assurance. "I'm saying see you soon, Dad," she clarified, embracing Victor tightly, their connection reflecting the deep bond they shared.

Touched by Prue's heartfelt declaration, Victor felt a renewed sense of purpose and fulfillment. "Thank you. You know, that's sort of why I came to town," he confessed, his voice tinged with vulnerability. "For this job interview, and although it would entail some travel, I'd be based here in San Francisco. And if you guys think that occasionally this town is big enough for the five of us, I'd like to accept their offer."

Piper pondered his words, her expression thoughtful as she considered the potential implications of Victor staying in San Francisco. "Hmm."

Victor, filled with hope and eager for a positive response, looked to his daughters and niece for confirmation. "Could I accept that as a yes?" he inquired, his eyes gleaming with anticipation, seeking validation for his decision.

In perfect harmony, Prue, Piper, and Phoebe voiced their agreement, their voices intertwining with a shared sentiment. "Yes," they responded simultaneously, their words carrying the weight of acceptance and love.

Buffy, ever enthusiastic and eager to join in, added her own exclamation of agreement. "Heck yes," she chimed in, her voice reflecting the excitement in the room.

Outside, a car horn blared, signaling the arrival of Victor's cab. The realization of his imminent departure spurred him into swift action, gathering his belongings. "That's my cab. Alright," he acknowledged, his voice filled with a mixture of emotions. "We've got so much catching up to do."

Piper, understanding the bittersweet nature of their reunion, reassured him with genuine warmth. "It's okay. It's different now," she stated, emphasizing the changed dynamics of their relationship, knowing that their bond had evolved and deepened.

Victor's eyes locked with Piper's, gratitude and love shining in his gaze. He acknowledged the truth in her words, appreciating the growth and transformation that had occurred. "It is, isn't it?" His gaze then shifted to Buffy, his voice filled with pride. "Besides, I believe I owe someone some stories about her mother," he said, a tender smile gracing his lips. "You know, she would be very proud of you, Buffy."

Buffy's response was filled with certainty. "I know," she affirmed, her voice carrying a mix of confidence and love, grateful for the opportunity to learn more about her mother from someone who knew her well.

With a nod and a hint of a smile, Victor bid his final farewell, walking towards the front door. "See you soon," he said, his voice filled with a sense of hope and promise, recognizing that this was not truly the end but the beginning of a new chapter in their lives. With each step he took, he carried with him the cherished memories and the anticipation of a future where he was in their lives.

0 – 0 – 0 – 0 – 0

In her bedroom, Buffy held the wrapped gift in her hands, excitement and curiosity bubbling within her. With eager anticipation, she carefully tore open the colorful paper, revealing the contents nestled inside.

As the wrapping fell away, Buffy's eyes widened in delight. Before her was an elegant dress, its fabric shimmering with a hint of glamour. The dress was a perfect fit for her, a stunning ensemble that seemed to radiate a sense of celebration and elegance.

Her heart swelled with gratitude and joy as she noticed a folded letter tucked alongside the dress. Buffy unfolded the letter, her eyes scanning the heartfelt words penned by Victor. The words held warmth and love, assuring her of his affection and commitment.

In the letter, Victor expressed his desire to take her out to dinner as a belated birthday celebration. He mentioned how proud he was of the person she had become and how he wanted to create a special memory together. He wrote of his excitement to catch up and share stories of her mother, emphasizing the importance of their bond.

Tears of happiness glistened in Buffy's eyes as she held the dress and the letter close to her heart. The thoughtful gesture from Victor touched her deeply, reminding her of the love and support she had gained from her family.

With a smile that lit up the room, Buffy whispered a heartfelt thank you to Victor, promising to cherish the dress and the upcoming dinner as a treasured memory. She felt a renewed sense of connection and anticipation, knowing that the belated birthday celebration would be a beautiful moment shared with someone who cared deeply for her.