Cheers
Buffy was sitting in front of the television, dully watching a documentary about the wildlife of Papua New Guinea, when Dawn walked into the living room.
«So, did you make the cheerleading squad?»
Buffy shrugged.
«No... But actually, maybe it's better that way. When I see what obsessing over these kinds of activities can do to... some people... And all for what, really, having a dusty trophy with your name on it in a glass case in a hallway at school? At least Mom doesn't bother me about making her dreams come true by proxy; there are girls who aren't so lucky.»
Dawn frowned. Buffy had spoken nonchalantly, but her little sister was perceptive enough to guess that she was mostly trying to convince herself: she was obviously disappointed, and probably a little sad.
«I'm not surprised, Dawn retorted mockingly. No doubt they didn't want some kind of howling monkey as a cheerleader!»
– Hey!» Buffy cried indignantly.
But before she could protest, she found herself with a lapful of the little girl.
«You know, Dawn continued, I don't need you to be a cheerleader to admire you. You're beautiful, and strong, and brave, and kind, and if they can't see that, they don't deserve you. You're a leader, period. Even if you have atrocious taste in clothes.»
Buffy couldn't help but smile.
«Little brat!» she grumbled, tenderly stroking her sister's hair.
Dawn looked at her amusedly.
«Little? One day, Buffy, I'll be taller than you.»