A hundred thoughts ran Buffy's mind as continued to stare at Cordelia's nails. Was Cordelia in the challenge as well? Did this mean they could help each other? Could she actually trust Cordelia to help? And perhaps most importantly, did this mean she didn't
have to tell Giles about how she... did things.
"So it all started with this freaky dream-" Cordelia started which was all Buffy needed to hear. In a snap decision, she jumped off the table and grabbed Cordelia's arm.
"Don't worry Giles." Buffy called out as she practically pulled Cordelia out of the Library. "I'll deal with this."
A moment later, Giles stared as the library doors swung shut with some bewilderment. However, he just shook his head as he started to polish his glasses.
"I don't think I'll ever understand these Americans." He muttered to himself but paused for a moment. "Were Cordelia’s nails pink? Dear lord, is Buffy's setting trends now?"
***
Outside in the hallway, Buffy was able to drag Cordelia a few feet before the other girl yanked her arm away.
"God, keep your creepy tiger talons to yourself!" Cordelia screeched but stopped and blinked. "Wait, how long have you had those."
Before Buffy could say anything, Cordelia glanced down at her own nails and back at Buffy's. A moment later, her eyes widened in realization.
"You got one of those weirdo papers too!" Cordelia exclaimed.
“Yes I did.” Buffy replied as looked around to make sure no one was listening.
“But why can I remember you always having them and not having them yesterday? Harmony thinks I just got these and nearly drove me crazy wanting the name of my manicurist.” Cordelia asked as she held a hand but when Buffy only blushed in response, a wicked
smirk grew on her face.
“Oh so the high and mighty Slayer let some pervy possessed hands feel her up.” Cordelia said arrogantly. “What’s the matter, killing vamps not doing it for you anymore so you have to get your depravity elsewhere? I mean, I had no problem keeping them under
control so what‘s your excuse?”
Buffy scowled at Cordelia’s remarks but before she could respond, both of their bodies flushed with warmth making them gasp. As Buffy watched, with more than a little disappointment, Cordelia’s nails returned to a sensible length and hers remained unchanged.
However, before she could relive her shame at failing the first part of the challenge, she felt part of her body start to tingle.