CHARMED

"Love Is A Many Splendored Thing; Sort Of"

By Teri Thibeault (a.k.a. Tessalynne) and J. B. Tilton (a.k.a. PG (for mild language)

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

A/N: Just a little holiday fun for your enjoyment.

Summary: The Charmed Ones cope with a rather unusual holiday surprise.

ONE

The elevator doors opened and Cole and Phoebe stepped out. Behind them were Piper and Paige.

"Well, here we are," said Cole as they looked around.

The room was lavishly decorated. Mistletoe hung from nearly every office door leading off the main room. A large Christmas tree, replete with presents stood in one corner. A large buffet table lined one wall filled with a variety of holiday treats to tempt the palette. The strains of Christmas music provided a gentle counterpoint to the room that was nearly filled with people who were chatting and drinking and generally having a good time.

"So this is what a twenty dollar party looks like," said Paige looking around the room.

"It's for a good cause," said Cole. "Every dime goes to the shelters for abused and neglected children. They get a lot of money from these annual Christmas parties."

"Well, I think it's a good idea," said Phoebe, holding Cole's arm. "Everyone has a Christmas party anyway. Asking for a donation to give to the kids is a wonderful way make it more than just a social gathering."

"And I hear they've had a record turn out this year," said Cole. "I may be the newest member of the law firm but it's nice to know you guys would agree to do this for me. I really appreciate it."

"Well, we couldn't very well say no to the kids, could we?" Piper asked. "This is a way to help the innocent without having to fight demons to do it. I just hope Leo makes it in time. He didn't seem to think his charge in Russia would need him very long."

"I'm sure he'll make it," said Paige.

"Cole," said a man walking over to them. "Glad you could make it."

"Gerald," Cole said. "This is Phoebe, my girlfriend. And these are her sisters Piper and Paige."

"Well, it's nice to have all of you here. We have such a wonderful turnout at these events and it does help the children. I'm Gerald Barnes, the senior partner here. I appreciate you coming even though you don't know anyone here."

"Well anything for the kids," said Phoebe. "When Cole told us how you raise money for them we just couldn't say no."

"If I remember correctly," said Gerald, "didn't you have reservations for five, Cole?"

"Oh, yeah," said Cole. "Leo, Piper's husband will be joining us later. He was, uh, unexpectedly called away at the last minute."

"Oh, is he a doctor or something?"

"No, not a doctor," said Piper nervously. "You might say he's something of a counselor."

"Well, that's wonderful. I always like to see others helping when they can. There are far too many people who care only for themselves. If we had more like your husband perhaps those shelters wouldn't be necessary. Cole, may I have a word with you privately for a moment? I won't keep him long, Phoebe, I promise."

"Sure thing," said Cole. "I'll be right back, sweetheart."

"No problem," said Phoebe.

"He doesn't seem much like a lawyer," said Paige.

"Cole said he grew up a battered child," said Phoebe. "That's why he cares about those kids so much."

"Well," said Piper, looking around the room of people, "party's usually mean mingling. I guess we should mingle."

The girls moved into the room waiting for Cole to return.