A/N: Well, here is the last chapter in the story. I am so happy you all
have enjoyed reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it. I know I've said
it many times, but once again thank you all for taking the time to let me
know what you think. You guys are the best!!!!
Chapter 6
Phoebe was sipping her third cup of tea. Ever since last night, she couldn't seem to get warm. She woke up with several layers of blankets over her, and when she got up, she wrapped one of them around her. Heading straight for the kitchen, desperately wanting something hot to drink.
Having gotten up a bit earlier, Prue had already started the kettle and it started whistling as Phoebe entered. An hour later and several cupfuls down, she still felt cold.
"Any better?" Asked her older sister.
"A little, its like my bones are chilled."
Reaching over, Prue gave her sister a hug. "Well considering what happened last night its not surprising. How about today we stay home, cuddle on the couch and watch T.V."
The plan sounded like heaven to Phoebe. She liked the idea of staying in her flannel pj's and blanket. The two settled in on the couch and just turned on the T.V. when the doorbell rang. They both let out a disgruntled groan at the invasion. Prue reluctantly got up and answered it. Leo was not who she was expecting on the other side.
"Hey you! Come on in."
Walking past her, he turned before speaking. "I hope I'm not intruding. I know you all must be pretty tired."
"You're never intruding. So what's up?"
He followed her into the living room, and smiled at a blanket encased Phoebe. "You okay?"
Snuggling down into her cocoon even more she said. "I will be, once I stop feeling like a popcicle."
Putting his bag down, he sat on one of the large overstuffed chairs across from the girls. "Good job again on defeating the mist last night. Course, I never doubted you would."
"Yeah, all in a night's work." Phoebe stated with just a little pride.
When Leo had dropped his bag, Prue noticed it for the first time. "What's with the bag?"
"Umm. That's why I'm here. I just wanted to come and say goodbye. I'm leaving San Francisco."
Two shocked faces stared back at him. "Wha..what?" Prue stuttered.
"Yeah, what she said." Added the other sister.
Putting his hands together, he glanced down at the floor, before saying. "It's just something I have to do. You both were right, I need to move on with my life."
"Whoa, but we didn't say you had to leave town to do it!" Prue accused.
"Yes I do. Look Prue, I can't move on with my life here. I can't see Piper everyday, knowing she is nearby and I can't be with her. I went on that date the other night and all I thought about was Piper." His eyes pleading with them to understand.
They did understand, however they were not happy about it at all. "Are you sure you want to do this?" Questioned the youngest Halliwell.
"I don't think it's a matter of choice anymore. Me being around isn't fair to Piper or myself. I mean, she's got this whole new life with Dan and she's happy. I know I've made things uncomfortable for her. At first I really thought I could win her back, but it just isn't meant to be. Now I need to find my life and I can't find it here."
The conflict she saw in his eyes, filled Prue with compassion and she reached over and grabbed his hands. "We understand honey. We're so going to miss you though. You're like family."
Her words touch his heart so deeply, and for a second time today, his eyes misted over. "You are my family and I'm going to miss you guys so much."
"I assume you already told Piper?"
"Yeah. I just came for P3. I wanted to stop by here before I head to the bus station." Knowing there was no sense prolonging the inevitable he rose to his feet. "I better get going."
Prue rose to her feet as well, and Phoebe shed her cocoon and rushed over to give him a big bear hug. "I hate that you're leaving you know."
The first genuine smile came to his lips. When she let go, Prue stepped closer and also gave him a huge hug. "You'll let us know where you are right?"
"Absolutely, as soon as I can. If you ever need anything,..."
"We know. So how you getting to the bus station?"
Picking up his bag as she stepped back, he said. "Trolley, then city bus."
Prue shook her head. "No way. I'll drive you." He made to protest, but she cut him off, having none of it. "Give me five minutes to get dressed, and she raced up the stairs.
Ten minutes later, they were pulling out of the driveway, heading for the station. They both insisted Phoebe stay home and take care of herself. She had agreed reluctantly.
Piper must have dozed. Her eyes popped open and it took her a few moments to realize where she was. Everything came flooding back to her. Sitting up, she took a moment to collect herself. It was amazing. Her mind was cleared of all the conflicting emotions of earlier. It was if a mist had been cleared from her head and all had been revealed.
Rushing into the main lobby of the club, she looked up at the clock. "Oh my God, am I too late?" Snatching her purse, she sprinted out of the club and made for her car. "Please don't let me be too late." Wheeling the vehicle out onto the street, she sped for the manor. She just couldn't be too late.
Prue pulled into the parking lot of the bus terminal. "You want me to come in?"
"No, I'm fine. Thanks for the lift." His hand already on the door handle.
"You're sure about this? Do you need any money?"
Tossing her a smile, he replied. "Yes I am and no I don't. This is the right thing to do Prue."
Leaning over she gave him another hug and a quick kiss on the cheek. "Call."
"I will." He promised as he returned the hug. Opening the door, he jumped out.
She watched until he disappeared into the main building. Letting out a sad sigh, she put the jeep in gear and drove off.
The drive to the manor seemed to take forever. The whole time she went over it all in her head again. All the emotions, she had been feeling at Leo's departure. It was his drastic move, which revealed a place in her heart, which she had locked away from everyone, including herself. She loved Leo! Had always loved him. He was her soul mate in every way. It was his kisses that left her breathless and wanting more. It was his encouraging words, which had gotten her through so many difficult times. The love he felt for her, for who she was. All of it made her feel alive. She cared for Dan, but it was not the same. Only Leo made her feel this way. Now she had to pray she wasn't too late. She kept seeing the pain in Leo's eyes as he told her goodbye. Stepping on the gas, she whispered to herself. "Please be there."
Prue returned to the manor a short time later. Neither of the girls felt like talking, each lost in their own thoughts. Each depressed at Leo's leaving. The front door slammed open and both of them jumped at the unexpected clatter.
"Leo! Leo!" Piper came flying in, head frantically searching for her quarry. Spotting her sisters, she cried. "Where is he? He's still here right?" The desperation in her voice surprised Prue and Phoebe.
The latter answered first. "No honey, he's gone. Prue dropped him off at the station a little while ago."
Piper felt as if a knife had been plunged into her heart. Collapsing on to the floor, tears fell from her eyes. "Oh God, I'm too late."
Rushing over, Prue and Phoebe knelt down beside her. "Piper, I don't understand?" Questioned a confused Prue. "This is a good thing isn't it? Now Dan and you..."
Piper didn't let her finish. "I don't love Dan. I love Leo." She sobbed. "I was such a stubborn fool, and now I've lost him. What am I going to do?"
Looking over their sister's head, Prue and Phoebe's eyes met in understanding. "It might not be too late." Offered Phoebe. "We don't know when his bus is leaving."
A flicker of hope entered Piper's eyes and she swiftly rose to her feet. "I've got to go!"
Witnessing her state, Prue said. "Wait, I'll drive."
"Fine, but we're going. Now!"
Having purchased a ticket for Salt Lake City, which would take him on to Billings Montana, Leo found a seat to wait. Where he was going, was as good as any place. It was far enough away to hopefully give him the space he desired. Looking at his watch, he had about an hour before his bus left. It had been an emotional and tiring couple of days. Leaning his head back against the seat, he let his mind wander. The first thing to pop into his mind was Piper's beautiful face. Remembering the last time he saw her and the feel of her sweet lips beneath his own. He allowed himself to enjoy the thought, then scolded himself for dwelling on things that would never be again. It was these thoughts that he had to put to an end. He had to leave Piper, not just in body, but in mind as well.
Traffic was heavy this time of day and Piper cursed at the constant delays. They were never going to get there at this rate. Prue remained quiet, knowing there was nothing she could say to soothe her sister's anxiety. After what seemed like forever, they entered the parking lot. Piper didn't wait for her sister to find a spot, instead she leaped from the car as it slowed and made for the main entrance.
Leo stood up as they announced his bus. With ticket in hand, he walked out onto the loading area. He kept his mind vacant, needing just to get on this bus and get it over with. Knowing, once he was on his way, it would be easier.
Piper pushed her way into the main lobby, swinging her head in every direction trying to find him. Her first scan revealed nothing. It was so crowded and she was having difficulty seeing over so many heads. Moving as quickly as the crowd allowed, she wove her way deeper into the lobby. Occasionally she would jump up to get a better view. She thought she had caught sight of him, but as she drew closer, she was disappointed. Precious minutes ticked by, and she hadn't the slightest glimmer him. Her heart was pounding so hard, she thought it might burst out of her chest. Desperation filled her. She could not have come this far just to loose him in the end. Feeling a body behind her, she turned expectantly, but it was only Prue.
Having parked the car, she managed to catch up with her younger sister. "No sign?"
Piper just shook her head and continued her quest. They had traversed the whole lobby twice and came up empty. Piper's anxiety increasing by the moment, to the point that Prue thought she might collapse on to the floor.
"Piper honey. I think we may be too late." She hated to voice those words, however it was becoming a real possibility.
"I can't loose him Prue. Not now."
"I know sweetie. I know, but we've looked everywhere." As she spoke those words an idea came to here. "Wait! We haven't checked outside, where you load the buses."
Eyes wide, Piper said. "Oh God, I forgot about that." Feeling like a lifeline had been thrown to her, she took off with renewed hope.
Leo stood in line by the side of the bus. The attendant smiled as she took his ticket and stamped it. A few more feet and he'd be on his way.
Outside, Piper moved like a woman possessed. Glancing down the line of waiting buses. Her heart stopped. She could have sworn she saw him or was it just her heart wishing it so. The crowd parted a bit and then she knew she did see him. He was waiting in line, a few buses away. Quickly she navigated her way toward him, bumping people along the way. She didn't care. He was almost on the bus, his booted foot on the first step. Running out of time, Piper knew she had to act quickly.
"Leo! Leo!" She called out as loudly as she could.
Thinking he heard someone call his name, he hesitated for just a second. Scanning the mass of people, he didn't recognize anyone. Giving his head a shake, he proceeded to step onto the bus.
Piper, her heart in her throat as she helplessly watched him take the first step onto the bus. With all her might, she burst through the last throng of people. "Leo wait! Please Leo!"
Again he paused and by this time, the people behind him were getting irritated. He knew for sure now that someone was calling his name. Stepping back down, he turned and spotted Piper. His heart skipped a beat. What was she doing here? The person behind him asked if he was going or not. Leo couldn't pull his eyes away from the approaching Piper, but did step out of line to let the other passengers board.
Breathing hard from her furious pace, she called out breathlessly. "Leo please don't go."
Standing there stunned, he shook his head in confusion. "Piper, what are you doing here?"
"Leo." She attempted to catch her breath. "Don't leave. I love you, don't leave me."
He knew this all must be some sort of dream, for those were the words he'd wanted to hear from her for so long. Had convinced himself he would never hear from her lips. "What? I don't understand."
Tears making their way down her cheeks, she pleaded with him. "Leo, I love you. I've always loved you." He didn't respond, but continued to look at her baffled. "I've been such a fool. Please tell me I'm not too late."
"But Dan....
Wiping the tears from her face, she shook her head. "I don't love Dan, I don't know if I ever did. At least not the way I love you. It's always been you." She let herself smile. His features held so much confusion, and he looked adorable. Unable to restrain herself further, she threw herself into his arms. "Please tell me it's not too late."
Unprepared for her actions, he instinctively wrapped his arms around her and held her close. Burying his face in her soft, silky hair, he allowed himself to feel the joy of her next to him. "Piper." He whispered emotionally.
They stood there motionless, relishing the moment. Finally she pulled back. "Don't go."
"Are you sure Piper? I mean really sure. There is always the possibility I'll get my wings back which means no normal life." He needed to make sure she had thought all this through. He could not go through loosing her again, because he knew it would kill him emotionally.
She knew he had a right to say what he said, but she had thought it all through and this was what she wanted. "As long as I have you, then I don't care. I love you so much, and nothing else matters. You're my world Leo."
Cupping her chin, his eyes full of affection, he replied. "I love you too. Always." Pulling her close, he lowered his mouth down to hers. Tentatively at first, with their lips brushing gently. Soon the kiss deepened as all the passion, which had been pent up, came flooding forth. Giving in to the moment, they let themselves feel.
Prue observed from a distance, tears shinning in her own eyes. She knew she was witnessing something amazing, something truly wonderful. True love and it made her feel warm inside.
Epilogue
Later that night, Leo and Piper lay in each other's arms, content. The bed coverings pulled up as they snuggled. Earlier, Piper had gone over to Dan's. It was not something she ever wanted to repeat. He was understandably hurt and confused. She had led him to believe so many things, the least of which was a loving relationship. Admitting he had been close to proposing, which magnified her guilt tenfold. Trying to make him understand it was not his fault, but hers. She should have been honest with herself from the beginning about her feelings for Leo and not led Dan on.
In the end it didn't matter. Dan did not understand when only yesterday they were together and happy. It was hard for him to come to grips that it all had been a lie. Piper didn't know how to make it easier for him. He asked her just to leave. Realizing there was nothing she could say to make it better, she did as he requested and left.
Her mood lifted the moment she walked into the manor and saw Leo. Standing there with his arms open and knowing just what she needed, which was his comfort and understanding. Not saying a word, he simply held her close. After a while, she felt better and pulled reluctantly out of his embrace. Taking his hand, she led him up the stairs and to her room. Hours later and completely contented, to be in each other's arms. Her head pillowed on his strong, warm chest.
Toying with the long strands of her soft hair, he asked. "You okay?"
"Perfect. You?" She purred.
Still fingering her hair, he looked down. "I never thought I could be this happy."
Lifting her head, she gazed into his eyes. "Me too." Leaning forward, her lips seeking his in a kiss, which he was more than happy to oblige.
As the kiss deepened, desire ignited once more. Rolling her onto her back, Leo looked down at her with passion filled eyes. There was no mistaking his intentions.
With a seductive smile, she asked. "Why Leo Wyatt. Are you planning to take advantage of me?"
"Every chance I get." He growled and she giggled.
Prue and Phoebe were walking down the hall when they heard a growl followed by a giggle come from Piper's room. Interlinking arms, and grinning from ear to ear, the two sisters continued onto their respective rooms. Happy to know things were as they should be.
Chapter 6
Phoebe was sipping her third cup of tea. Ever since last night, she couldn't seem to get warm. She woke up with several layers of blankets over her, and when she got up, she wrapped one of them around her. Heading straight for the kitchen, desperately wanting something hot to drink.
Having gotten up a bit earlier, Prue had already started the kettle and it started whistling as Phoebe entered. An hour later and several cupfuls down, she still felt cold.
"Any better?" Asked her older sister.
"A little, its like my bones are chilled."
Reaching over, Prue gave her sister a hug. "Well considering what happened last night its not surprising. How about today we stay home, cuddle on the couch and watch T.V."
The plan sounded like heaven to Phoebe. She liked the idea of staying in her flannel pj's and blanket. The two settled in on the couch and just turned on the T.V. when the doorbell rang. They both let out a disgruntled groan at the invasion. Prue reluctantly got up and answered it. Leo was not who she was expecting on the other side.
"Hey you! Come on in."
Walking past her, he turned before speaking. "I hope I'm not intruding. I know you all must be pretty tired."
"You're never intruding. So what's up?"
He followed her into the living room, and smiled at a blanket encased Phoebe. "You okay?"
Snuggling down into her cocoon even more she said. "I will be, once I stop feeling like a popcicle."
Putting his bag down, he sat on one of the large overstuffed chairs across from the girls. "Good job again on defeating the mist last night. Course, I never doubted you would."
"Yeah, all in a night's work." Phoebe stated with just a little pride.
When Leo had dropped his bag, Prue noticed it for the first time. "What's with the bag?"
"Umm. That's why I'm here. I just wanted to come and say goodbye. I'm leaving San Francisco."
Two shocked faces stared back at him. "Wha..what?" Prue stuttered.
"Yeah, what she said." Added the other sister.
Putting his hands together, he glanced down at the floor, before saying. "It's just something I have to do. You both were right, I need to move on with my life."
"Whoa, but we didn't say you had to leave town to do it!" Prue accused.
"Yes I do. Look Prue, I can't move on with my life here. I can't see Piper everyday, knowing she is nearby and I can't be with her. I went on that date the other night and all I thought about was Piper." His eyes pleading with them to understand.
They did understand, however they were not happy about it at all. "Are you sure you want to do this?" Questioned the youngest Halliwell.
"I don't think it's a matter of choice anymore. Me being around isn't fair to Piper or myself. I mean, she's got this whole new life with Dan and she's happy. I know I've made things uncomfortable for her. At first I really thought I could win her back, but it just isn't meant to be. Now I need to find my life and I can't find it here."
The conflict she saw in his eyes, filled Prue with compassion and she reached over and grabbed his hands. "We understand honey. We're so going to miss you though. You're like family."
Her words touch his heart so deeply, and for a second time today, his eyes misted over. "You are my family and I'm going to miss you guys so much."
"I assume you already told Piper?"
"Yeah. I just came for P3. I wanted to stop by here before I head to the bus station." Knowing there was no sense prolonging the inevitable he rose to his feet. "I better get going."
Prue rose to her feet as well, and Phoebe shed her cocoon and rushed over to give him a big bear hug. "I hate that you're leaving you know."
The first genuine smile came to his lips. When she let go, Prue stepped closer and also gave him a huge hug. "You'll let us know where you are right?"
"Absolutely, as soon as I can. If you ever need anything,..."
"We know. So how you getting to the bus station?"
Picking up his bag as she stepped back, he said. "Trolley, then city bus."
Prue shook her head. "No way. I'll drive you." He made to protest, but she cut him off, having none of it. "Give me five minutes to get dressed, and she raced up the stairs.
Ten minutes later, they were pulling out of the driveway, heading for the station. They both insisted Phoebe stay home and take care of herself. She had agreed reluctantly.
Piper must have dozed. Her eyes popped open and it took her a few moments to realize where she was. Everything came flooding back to her. Sitting up, she took a moment to collect herself. It was amazing. Her mind was cleared of all the conflicting emotions of earlier. It was if a mist had been cleared from her head and all had been revealed.
Rushing into the main lobby of the club, she looked up at the clock. "Oh my God, am I too late?" Snatching her purse, she sprinted out of the club and made for her car. "Please don't let me be too late." Wheeling the vehicle out onto the street, she sped for the manor. She just couldn't be too late.
Prue pulled into the parking lot of the bus terminal. "You want me to come in?"
"No, I'm fine. Thanks for the lift." His hand already on the door handle.
"You're sure about this? Do you need any money?"
Tossing her a smile, he replied. "Yes I am and no I don't. This is the right thing to do Prue."
Leaning over she gave him another hug and a quick kiss on the cheek. "Call."
"I will." He promised as he returned the hug. Opening the door, he jumped out.
She watched until he disappeared into the main building. Letting out a sad sigh, she put the jeep in gear and drove off.
The drive to the manor seemed to take forever. The whole time she went over it all in her head again. All the emotions, she had been feeling at Leo's departure. It was his drastic move, which revealed a place in her heart, which she had locked away from everyone, including herself. She loved Leo! Had always loved him. He was her soul mate in every way. It was his kisses that left her breathless and wanting more. It was his encouraging words, which had gotten her through so many difficult times. The love he felt for her, for who she was. All of it made her feel alive. She cared for Dan, but it was not the same. Only Leo made her feel this way. Now she had to pray she wasn't too late. She kept seeing the pain in Leo's eyes as he told her goodbye. Stepping on the gas, she whispered to herself. "Please be there."
Prue returned to the manor a short time later. Neither of the girls felt like talking, each lost in their own thoughts. Each depressed at Leo's leaving. The front door slammed open and both of them jumped at the unexpected clatter.
"Leo! Leo!" Piper came flying in, head frantically searching for her quarry. Spotting her sisters, she cried. "Where is he? He's still here right?" The desperation in her voice surprised Prue and Phoebe.
The latter answered first. "No honey, he's gone. Prue dropped him off at the station a little while ago."
Piper felt as if a knife had been plunged into her heart. Collapsing on to the floor, tears fell from her eyes. "Oh God, I'm too late."
Rushing over, Prue and Phoebe knelt down beside her. "Piper, I don't understand?" Questioned a confused Prue. "This is a good thing isn't it? Now Dan and you..."
Piper didn't let her finish. "I don't love Dan. I love Leo." She sobbed. "I was such a stubborn fool, and now I've lost him. What am I going to do?"
Looking over their sister's head, Prue and Phoebe's eyes met in understanding. "It might not be too late." Offered Phoebe. "We don't know when his bus is leaving."
A flicker of hope entered Piper's eyes and she swiftly rose to her feet. "I've got to go!"
Witnessing her state, Prue said. "Wait, I'll drive."
"Fine, but we're going. Now!"
Having purchased a ticket for Salt Lake City, which would take him on to Billings Montana, Leo found a seat to wait. Where he was going, was as good as any place. It was far enough away to hopefully give him the space he desired. Looking at his watch, he had about an hour before his bus left. It had been an emotional and tiring couple of days. Leaning his head back against the seat, he let his mind wander. The first thing to pop into his mind was Piper's beautiful face. Remembering the last time he saw her and the feel of her sweet lips beneath his own. He allowed himself to enjoy the thought, then scolded himself for dwelling on things that would never be again. It was these thoughts that he had to put to an end. He had to leave Piper, not just in body, but in mind as well.
Traffic was heavy this time of day and Piper cursed at the constant delays. They were never going to get there at this rate. Prue remained quiet, knowing there was nothing she could say to soothe her sister's anxiety. After what seemed like forever, they entered the parking lot. Piper didn't wait for her sister to find a spot, instead she leaped from the car as it slowed and made for the main entrance.
Leo stood up as they announced his bus. With ticket in hand, he walked out onto the loading area. He kept his mind vacant, needing just to get on this bus and get it over with. Knowing, once he was on his way, it would be easier.
Piper pushed her way into the main lobby, swinging her head in every direction trying to find him. Her first scan revealed nothing. It was so crowded and she was having difficulty seeing over so many heads. Moving as quickly as the crowd allowed, she wove her way deeper into the lobby. Occasionally she would jump up to get a better view. She thought she had caught sight of him, but as she drew closer, she was disappointed. Precious minutes ticked by, and she hadn't the slightest glimmer him. Her heart was pounding so hard, she thought it might burst out of her chest. Desperation filled her. She could not have come this far just to loose him in the end. Feeling a body behind her, she turned expectantly, but it was only Prue.
Having parked the car, she managed to catch up with her younger sister. "No sign?"
Piper just shook her head and continued her quest. They had traversed the whole lobby twice and came up empty. Piper's anxiety increasing by the moment, to the point that Prue thought she might collapse on to the floor.
"Piper honey. I think we may be too late." She hated to voice those words, however it was becoming a real possibility.
"I can't loose him Prue. Not now."
"I know sweetie. I know, but we've looked everywhere." As she spoke those words an idea came to here. "Wait! We haven't checked outside, where you load the buses."
Eyes wide, Piper said. "Oh God, I forgot about that." Feeling like a lifeline had been thrown to her, she took off with renewed hope.
Leo stood in line by the side of the bus. The attendant smiled as she took his ticket and stamped it. A few more feet and he'd be on his way.
Outside, Piper moved like a woman possessed. Glancing down the line of waiting buses. Her heart stopped. She could have sworn she saw him or was it just her heart wishing it so. The crowd parted a bit and then she knew she did see him. He was waiting in line, a few buses away. Quickly she navigated her way toward him, bumping people along the way. She didn't care. He was almost on the bus, his booted foot on the first step. Running out of time, Piper knew she had to act quickly.
"Leo! Leo!" She called out as loudly as she could.
Thinking he heard someone call his name, he hesitated for just a second. Scanning the mass of people, he didn't recognize anyone. Giving his head a shake, he proceeded to step onto the bus.
Piper, her heart in her throat as she helplessly watched him take the first step onto the bus. With all her might, she burst through the last throng of people. "Leo wait! Please Leo!"
Again he paused and by this time, the people behind him were getting irritated. He knew for sure now that someone was calling his name. Stepping back down, he turned and spotted Piper. His heart skipped a beat. What was she doing here? The person behind him asked if he was going or not. Leo couldn't pull his eyes away from the approaching Piper, but did step out of line to let the other passengers board.
Breathing hard from her furious pace, she called out breathlessly. "Leo please don't go."
Standing there stunned, he shook his head in confusion. "Piper, what are you doing here?"
"Leo." She attempted to catch her breath. "Don't leave. I love you, don't leave me."
He knew this all must be some sort of dream, for those were the words he'd wanted to hear from her for so long. Had convinced himself he would never hear from her lips. "What? I don't understand."
Tears making their way down her cheeks, she pleaded with him. "Leo, I love you. I've always loved you." He didn't respond, but continued to look at her baffled. "I've been such a fool. Please tell me I'm not too late."
"But Dan....
Wiping the tears from her face, she shook her head. "I don't love Dan, I don't know if I ever did. At least not the way I love you. It's always been you." She let herself smile. His features held so much confusion, and he looked adorable. Unable to restrain herself further, she threw herself into his arms. "Please tell me it's not too late."
Unprepared for her actions, he instinctively wrapped his arms around her and held her close. Burying his face in her soft, silky hair, he allowed himself to feel the joy of her next to him. "Piper." He whispered emotionally.
They stood there motionless, relishing the moment. Finally she pulled back. "Don't go."
"Are you sure Piper? I mean really sure. There is always the possibility I'll get my wings back which means no normal life." He needed to make sure she had thought all this through. He could not go through loosing her again, because he knew it would kill him emotionally.
She knew he had a right to say what he said, but she had thought it all through and this was what she wanted. "As long as I have you, then I don't care. I love you so much, and nothing else matters. You're my world Leo."
Cupping her chin, his eyes full of affection, he replied. "I love you too. Always." Pulling her close, he lowered his mouth down to hers. Tentatively at first, with their lips brushing gently. Soon the kiss deepened as all the passion, which had been pent up, came flooding forth. Giving in to the moment, they let themselves feel.
Prue observed from a distance, tears shinning in her own eyes. She knew she was witnessing something amazing, something truly wonderful. True love and it made her feel warm inside.
Epilogue
Later that night, Leo and Piper lay in each other's arms, content. The bed coverings pulled up as they snuggled. Earlier, Piper had gone over to Dan's. It was not something she ever wanted to repeat. He was understandably hurt and confused. She had led him to believe so many things, the least of which was a loving relationship. Admitting he had been close to proposing, which magnified her guilt tenfold. Trying to make him understand it was not his fault, but hers. She should have been honest with herself from the beginning about her feelings for Leo and not led Dan on.
In the end it didn't matter. Dan did not understand when only yesterday they were together and happy. It was hard for him to come to grips that it all had been a lie. Piper didn't know how to make it easier for him. He asked her just to leave. Realizing there was nothing she could say to make it better, she did as he requested and left.
Her mood lifted the moment she walked into the manor and saw Leo. Standing there with his arms open and knowing just what she needed, which was his comfort and understanding. Not saying a word, he simply held her close. After a while, she felt better and pulled reluctantly out of his embrace. Taking his hand, she led him up the stairs and to her room. Hours later and completely contented, to be in each other's arms. Her head pillowed on his strong, warm chest.
Toying with the long strands of her soft hair, he asked. "You okay?"
"Perfect. You?" She purred.
Still fingering her hair, he looked down. "I never thought I could be this happy."
Lifting her head, she gazed into his eyes. "Me too." Leaning forward, her lips seeking his in a kiss, which he was more than happy to oblige.
As the kiss deepened, desire ignited once more. Rolling her onto her back, Leo looked down at her with passion filled eyes. There was no mistaking his intentions.
With a seductive smile, she asked. "Why Leo Wyatt. Are you planning to take advantage of me?"
"Every chance I get." He growled and she giggled.
Prue and Phoebe were walking down the hall when they heard a growl followed by a giggle come from Piper's room. Interlinking arms, and grinning from ear to ear, the two sisters continued onto their respective rooms. Happy to know things were as they should be.