Chapter 1

Till death do us part

“With this ring I thee wed,” Xander said.

God, he was the luckiest man in the world. Dawn Summers was so beautiful. So sweet. She was the woman of his dreams. He still couldn't believe it had happened. And so fast. They'd only met a month ago. And yet with every fibre in his being, Xander felt they were perfect for each other.

“With this ring I thee wed,” Dawn replied.

“You may now kiss the bride,” the priest said.

Xander and Dawn shared a sweet little kiss. Xander's friends and family broke into a big round applause in the tiny little church they'd rented. Xander felt a tiny bit of relief when he remembered his parents didn't come. And then he felt guilty for that thought. When Xander looked over he saw Buffy Summers grinning from ear to ear and clapping.

When she gave him a wide smile, Xander felt a strange sensation in his chest. No, Xander thought. He couldn't be attracted to her. For one thing it was wrong. She was his wife's mother.

No matter that she looked like a perfectly preserved twenty five year old blonde goddess, Xander thought. Oh god, he was staring at her wasn't he. A sharp elbow in his stomach confirmed his worst suspicions. He braced himself for the worst. His new wife at caught him ogling her mother, after all.

But when Xander looked back at Dawn, she only shook her head as if to say 'you totally spaced out dummy' and gave him a sweet smile. God. Her eyes were so innocent. Pure. Guileless.

I trust you Xander, her eyes told him. I love you.

And Xander felt a pang of guilt in his chest.

I'll never hurt you Dawn, he promised himself.

Xander spent the rest of the evening at Dawn's side. He couldn't help but notice how copiously his new bride was drinking. Or stop himself from looking at Buffy. She was the life of the party. Every man wanted to dance with her. Almost every woman was giving her jealous looks. She almost looked like she was the bride.

“Sweetie,” he whispered in her ear. “Don't you think you're overdoing it a little.”

“Sorry,” Dawn said, giving him a shy smile that made his stomach flutter. “Just nervous you know.”

Xander could see Dawn's hands shaking. He clasped them in his.
“Nothing to be nervous about,” Xander soothed, kissing Dawn's hand. “We're husband and wife now. I'm never going to leave you.”

“It's not that,” Dawn whispered, ducking her head.

“What is it?” Xander asked.

“I,” Dawn whispered, then looked around. “I've never done it before. You know.”

“Done what sweetie?” Xandre frowned.

“Sex,” Dawn whispered.

“Oh,” Xander said, his eyes widening. And then it all made sense.

As much as Dawn had told him she'd loved and wanted him. Why she stopped him everytime they'd even begun to go in that direction.

“Oh sweetheart,” Xander murmured. “This will be a night you never forget. I promise.”

“I know,” Dawn said. “Just a little while longer. And then we can be together.”

It was only many hours later when Xander and Dawn finally made it back to their beautiful Hawaiian suite.

“God you're beautiful,” Xander whispered, kissing her neck. “I love you.”

“I love you baby,” Dawn slurred. “I want you so much.”

Xander shook his head. She'd had so much to drink. Xander had tried to calm her down and to keep an eye on her, but to no avail. Everytime he'd laid eyes on her she'd been taking a nervous sip of her champagne. Xander knew he shouldn't. She was drunk. But he wanted her so much. He couldn't hardly think straight.

Xander began undoing Dawn's wedding dress. She tried to undo his buttons, then began giggling drunkenly when she fumbled with the buttons.

“Let me,” Xander said, carrying Dawn and placing her onto the bed.

“Come here,” Dawn giggled, her words slurred. “Husband.”

“Be right with you wife,” Xander grinned, shrugging off his shirt.

“Wow,” Dawn sighed, touching his muscles. “You have such a nice body.”

“Thanks,” Xander said sheepishly, almost shyly. Dawn pulled his lips to her neck and fell back onto the bed.

“I love you,” Dawn muttered. “Xzhander.”

“I love you so much,” he mumbled, kissing her neck as he fumbled with undoing her dress.

Come on. Come on come on come on.

Aha, Xander thought, when the back of her dress finally came undone.

He grinned as he began rolling it down her body. Which is when he heard it.

Dawn was snoring. Right in his ear. Her head on his shoulder.

No, Xander thought. No. God. We were so close. I want her so much. He shut his eyes hard, praying for the courage to do the right thing.

Xander sighed heavily. And then he gently placed Dawn's head onto the pillow and covered her body with the bedcover. His wife
mumbled something in her sleep and then turned over to the side,
snoring even louder.

Xander buried his head in his hands. Oh god.

“It's okay,” Xander said under his breath. “It's okay. Waiting another night won't kill me. It's just one more night. We have the rest of our lives together.”

I need a drink, Xander thought, sighing heavily. He reached towards the bottle of cold champagne kept by the bedside, then realised it was empty.

“Son of a bitch,” Xander swore, keeping his voice down in order not to wake his slumbering wife. He snuck a hopeful look at Dawn. She was still sleeping. Knocked out cold, it seemed.

He looked towards the mini bar, then decided against it. He
considered going to sleep, but he really wasn't sleepy. No, he felt antsy. Amped up. His motor was running.

I need a walk, Xander thought. Yeah, that's it. A nice walk on the beach. That'll clear up my head.

The big head, Xander thought wryly. Not the small one. Sorry big guy, Xander thought. Looks like you're sitting on the bench tonight.

Xander dressed quietly, constantly sneaking looks at his wife.
She looked like an angel, he thought. She was so beautiful.

Xander felt himself throbbing inside his pants. God he was so hard. But no. He wasn't about to go wank alone inside the bathroom. Not on his wedding night. Like some loser. He could just imagine Dawn drunkenly stumbling in on him. God he'll never live it down.

Xander got into his slippers, collected the room key.

“Night,” he whispered, then quietly closed the door.

Xander had only taken about ten steps when he heard a familiar voice.

“Stupid door,” he heard her say. “Open up. Ow!”

He spun around. She was at the far end of the hall. Banging on her
door. Kicking it. Trying to get it to open.

“Ms Summers?” he asked. “Do you need any help.”

“Xander,” Buffy said, in a surprised tone. “Hi.”

“Is everything allright?” he asked.

“Stupid door won't open,” Buffy said, rattling the handle as she tried to jam in her keycard. “I'm locked out.”

“Oh,” Xander said. “Here let me.”

Buffy handed him the card, then stepped aside. Xander examined it, saw that it was upside down.

“Here,” Xander said, putting the keycard in and turning the door.

“Here you go.” The little light turned green and Buffy let out a victorous whoop.

“Go Xander,” Buffy cheered. “Who knew you could be so handy.”

“I do run a construction company you know,” Xander chuckled. “Glad I could help.”

“Wait,” Buffy said, frowning. “What are you doing out here?”

“Dawn,” Xander began, trying to come up with something that didn't make his wife seem like total boozehound. “She's tired. She wanted to get some rest. And I felt like a walk.”

“Oh,” Buffy said. And then something seemed to occur to her.

“You know,” Buffy began. “You and Dawn got together so quickly. It kinda caught me off guard.”

“You're not the only one,” Xander admitted. “Sometimes I think this is all just a dream.”

“I know,” Buffy said, shaking her head disbelievingly. “Right?”

“Yeah,” Xander said. “It's been....crazy”

“Crazy,” Buffy said, at the same time he did. They both laughed at that.

“I'm sorry your parents couldn't make it,” Buffy said. “I would have liked to meet them.”

“Trust me,” Xander said, his mood darkening. “Things are better off this way.”

“Oh sweetie,” Buffy said. “I didn't mean to...”

“It's okay,” Xander said gruffly. “I should probably get out of you hair.”

“Actually,” Buffy said. “I just realised something. This is the first real conversation we've had.”

“Seriously?” Xander said. He reflected on that for a moment. “I guess you're right. Things were so crazy with the wedding.”

“Yeah,” Buffy said, letting the silence linger for a moment too long.

“Do you want to come in?” Buffy asked.

Xander froze. What? Did she just invite me into her room?

Xander felt like he was having an out of body experience. His wife's gorgeous mother had invited him into her room. This was like one of his teenage porno movie fantasies come to life. He felt himself throb in his pants.

“I feel kind of weird just standing here,” Buffy said, sheepishly. “It's nice ya know. Actually talking to someone.”

And then Xander came back to reality and realised what an idiot he was being. She wanted to talk to him. Of course, Xander thought.
Xander Lavelle Harriss, you are an idiot.

Dawn had got him all worked up. That was all. His overactive imagination had combined with all the pent up sexual feelings over the last month. Which is why Xander knew he should scoot away. Before he made a fool of himself.

“Actually,” he began. He saw her face fall. Saw the disappointment in those beautiful green eyes.

“It's okay, Xander,” Buffy said, giving him a winning smile. “Who wouldn't prefer hanging out on the beach with the young folk than chatting it up with an old lady.”

Xander's jaw dropped. Buffy thought she was old? He couldn't believe that. She was drop dead beautiful.

“No,” Xander spluttered. “That's not...”

“It's okay,” Buffy soothed. “Really. I understand. Go. You're young. Have fun.”

But her smile couldn't mask the pain he saw in her eyes. She was lonely, Xander realised. Despite her youthful looks, she was lonely. Hungry for some conversation. He remembered Dawn telling him about what a piece of shit her father was. And what a bigger piece of shit Buffy's father was. And his heart hurt for her.

“You know,” Xander said. “I'd love to come in.”

“You don't have to humour me,” Buffy said. “Really.”

“I insist,” Xander said. “Please.”

She hesitated, considering whether or not to send him on his way. And then her face broke out into another heart stopping smile.

“After you,” Buffy said, opening the door wide. Xander walked in and Buffy followed, shutting the door behind them.

And before Xander knew it, it had been almost an hour. They'd been sitting on the couch. Talking. Laughing. Swapping stories about Dawn. About growing up. He couldn't believe it, but their families came from the same small town. Sunnydale. Or Sunnyhell as they called it together, laughing.

Xander shook his head impercetibly. God he'd been such an idiot earlier. What had he been thinking. Buffy was such an amazing woman. Incredible really.

“So what happened?” Xander found himself asking.

“About?” Buffy quirked her head to one side in a manner very similar to Dawn.

“Your ex-husband,” Xander said. “I mean after. You know.”

“Nothing happened,” Buffy said. “He ran off with the secretary. Harmony. Leaving me to raise Dawn.”

“Bastard,” Xander swore. “Sorry.”

“It's okay,” Buffy smiled. “He is a bastard. And I heard Harmony got
fat.”

They broke out into uproarious laughter again. When they had settled, Xander couldn't help but pursue the inquiry.

“I meant,” Xander said. “Why didn't you ever. You know. Remarry.”

“I guess,” Buffy began. “I didn't want to get hurt you know. Not
again.”

Xander nodded. He knew all about hurt.

“Besides,” Buffy said. “I never met anyone I really...”

“Clicked with,” they both said together, laughing again.

“We click pretty good don't we?” Buffy said, flicking her hair over her shoulders.

“Yeah,” Xander said. “We do.”

For the first time since they'd walked through the door, they said nothing. They just looked at each other. Suddenly Xander found his throat parched. His stomach was fluttering. His breathing was heavy. He knew he was imagining things. The tension in her body. The question in her eyes. The slightest quiver of her lips.

“Do you want a drink?” Buffy asked, breaking the spell. “I could use
one.”

“Sure,” Xander said, licking his lips. God, he was thirsty. So thirsty.

You're just imagining things, Xander told himself. Stop it. She's just being nice. Buffy returned with a bottle of champagne and a champagne glass.

“Wow,” Xander said. “That looks...”

“Expensive,” Buffy giggled, settling in. “But I'm treating. So hush up.”
Xander saw her place the champagne glass on the table.

“Sorry,” she said. “Could only find the one.”

He shrugged as Buffy began struggling with uncorking the bottle.

“Need some help?” he asked, amused at her struggle.

“I'll manage,” Buffy said sardonically. “Thanks.”

She struggled for a long moment, before giving in, petulantly handing the bottle over to him and picking one of the glasses.

Xander uncorked the bottle with one smooth motion, directing the mouth of the bottle towards the glass even as it popped. Their eyes met when the white fizzy liquid filled the glass to its brim.

Xander felt his overactive imagination go into hyperdrive. Buffy's smile was knowing, but Xander knew she would absolutely have a meltdown if she knew what was going through his mind right now.
Xander felt his hands shake and he put the glass down on the table.

“Mmmmm,” Buffy said, bringing the glass up to her lips, taking a tiny sip. “That's good.”

Xander's eyes flickered to her lips. They were so pink. So perfect. They looked petal soft. He just knew they would taste like heaven.
God, he thought. Stop it. Just stop.

“My turn,” Xander said, holding out his hand, for the glass, hoping it wasn't trembling too much.

Buffy held out the glass, but then seemed to change her mind. She downed the entire glass in one quick gulp, then stuck out her tongue
at Xander and laughed. Xander reached for the bottle, but Buffy moved quicker than he'd expected and she'd snatched that up as well and moved to the other side of the table.

“Oh I'm sorry,” Buffy said. “Is there something you want?”

“Buffy,” Xander said. “Give it to me.”

The booze he meant. He wanted the booze. Of course. What else could he mean.

“If you want it,” Buffy said, backing away. She crooked her finger before she disappeared out of sight. Come and get it.

I'm just thirsty, Xander told himself, as he rose to his feet. Yes, Xander thought. That's all. I'm thirsty.

And the image of the champagne glass, poised at Buffy's lips flashed through his mind. Those soft pink lips. He swore he could see her little pink tongue swiping at the champagne.

Thirsty, he thought, wetting his lips. So fucking thirsty.

When he stepped into the bedroom his jaw dropped. Buffy was lying on the bed in a heart attack inducing lingerie. Her silken outfit was deadly, the colour of ivory with rich black lace at the fringes.

“Is there something you want Xander?” she asked again provocatively stroking the champagne bottle next to her with slender fingers. Xander just stared at her. She was perfection made whole. The sight was enough to unmake any man. And Xander was only a man.

“Yes,” he whispered.

“Good.” Buffy said, appraising him with bold eyes. “Then strip for me.”

Xander undid his shirt. His pants. His earlier words were forgotten. They were only words. Only vows. At this moment, they meant nothing.

“Nice,” Buffy said, inspecting his physique. When Xander's hands strayed to his underwear, Buffy stopped him.

“Not yet,” Buffy said. “Now come here.”

Xander settled in besides Buffy, who raised the champagne bottle.

“To us,” she said, holding it to his lips. Xander drank deep of the bottle.

“To us,” he said, wiping his mouth, then poured it on Buffy, who squealed. Xander kissed her neck, lapping up the champagne he'd
spilled on her neck, then began kissing lower.

“Xander,” Buffy moaned. “God.”

“Oh god,” he heard her say. “Xander.”

But this voice was outraged. Horrified.

Xander looked over his shoulder to see his wife standing there. Holding her hand over her mouth.

“Dawn,” Xander said. Oh no. No, no, no, no, no.

“How could you?” Dawn said. “With my mother!”

Xander opened his words, but no words came.

“Dawnie,” Buffy began desperately. “Sweetie. I swear this isn't what it looks like.”

“Shut up,” Dawn screamed. “I hate you.”

“Sweetie,” Buffy said, beginning to rise. Xander winced when Dawn slapped Buffy hard enough to make her fall back onto the floor.

“Dawn,” Xander began, his voice miserable. “I don't know what....”

“I never want to see you again,” Dawn said. She took off her ring and dropped it on the floor. “Either of you. Have a happy life.”

And with that Dawn walked out of the room.

1 month later

Xander sat across from Dawn. His lawyer talking to her lawyer.

“Dawn,” he began. His wife stubbornly avoided his eyes.

“Ask your client to address all his queries to me,” Dawn's lawyer chastised.

“Xander,” his lawyer hissed. “Be quiet. Let me handle this.”

“We're filing for divorce,” Dawn's lawyer announced. “We'll have half of everything.”

“Don't be absurd,” Xander's lawyer said. “They were married for five minutes.”

“Do you want everyone to know why?” Dawn's lawyer said. “Somehow I don't think you'd want all your friends to know all the sordid details.”

“Look,” Xander said. “I messed up. I know that. I just.....”

“Don't say another word,” Xander's lawyer hissed. “Now. What will it take to make this go away?”

An hour later, Dawn was boarding a flight to Chicago. First class.

“Champagne?” the airhostess offered.

“No thanks,” Dawn said.

“You should try it,” a voice said. Dawn looked up. Buffy was standing right besides her wearing sunglasses, glass of champagne in her
hand. “It's not half bad.”

Dawn shook her head, then scooted over to the side.

“So?” Buffy asked.

“Five hundred grand,” Dawn grinned. “Not bad for a month's work.”

“Nice,” Buffy chuckled. “Minus the dental work.Did you have to hit
me so hard?”

“It had to look real,” Dawn said, rolling her eyes. “Stop being such a baby,”

“You're the baby,” Buffy muttered, gingerly sipping her drink.

“Very mature,” Dawn said sarcastically. “Mom.”

And with that the girls burst out laughing. Buffy beckoned to the airhostess, who poured a drink for Dawn.

“What took you so long anyway?” Dawn whined. “I was out there for an hour.”

“You have to know when to make the move,” Buffy said, shaking her head. “Haven't I taught you anything?”

“Only how to be a big ho,” Dawn said snidely.

“Har har har,” Buffy said. “A toast?”

“To Xander?” Dawn asked.

“To men,” Buffy smiled. “For making it so easy.”

And their glasses clinked together as the plane soared into the sky.

Riley Finn was losing his damn mind. The forty-year-old real estate developer owned Florida. He could have anything he wanted. Cars, apartments, hotels. But all that was on his mind was a piece of ass. And what an ass it was. The only catch? It was attached to his new wife's 19-year-old daughter.

God, he hated himself for those thoughts. He loved his wife Buffy so much. She was so pure. So good. So tender. They made love slowly. Achingly. Tenderly. She was a lady. The best thing that happened to him. Their two months of marriage had been pure bliss. Riley had never been happier. Until that moment.

“Riley,” she'd told him, as they lay in bed together. “I got a call from Dawn today.”

“Your daughter?” he asked, frowning.

“She needs a break from her father,” Buffy said. “She wants to visit. Is that okay?”

“Of course,” Riley said. “Honey. I'd love to meet her. You know that.”

Buffy had regaled him with stories of Dawn so often. How she loved stuffed animals. How she brought home creatures she'd found abandoned. Riley wanted to meet the kid.

“She's a bit much,” Buffy warned. “She never liked me dating. Ya know?”

“Don't worry,” Riley had assured her. “She's family now.”

“I love you,” Buffy said, placing her head on his chest.
“I love you too,” Riley said, kissing her head. He never saw the wicked self-self-satisfied smirk on Buffy's face.

When Riley came home the next day, Buffy was waiting for him.

He'd never seen his wife so happy before.

“She's here,” Buffy grinned, giving him a big hug.

“Where is she?” Riley said.

“In the kitchen,” Buffy said. “Probably getting herself a nice warm glass of milk.”

Just then Buffy's phone buzzed.

“Oh,” she said, looking down. “I have to take this. Why don't you go ahead honey?”

“Okay,” Riley said, giving his wife a quick peck.

“Play nice,” Buffy warned, even as she cupped the phone to her ear.

Riley walked into the kitchen with a large grin. Maybe he could take her out for an ice-cream. He'd bet that would score him some major brownie points.

“Dawnie?” he began, looking around. “Honey? Are you here......”

His words died in his throat. She was leaning over the kitchen island, facing away from him. His eyes fixated on her heart shaped bottom, which was highlighted by perhaps the tightest hot pink dress he'd ever seen. Not to mention the shortest. It cut off an inch below her panties and showed a glorious amount of her tanned golden thighs. Riley's eyes ran down her shapely golden legs, at the end of which dangled white strappy heels. Riley was befuddled. Where was little Dawnie?

He took another step to the side. She was gorgeous. Her skin sun-kissed, flawless cheekbones, tiny nose. Her lips were glossy bubblegum pink and matched here dress. She was perusing some girly magazine with a bored expression. One hand was idly playing with her honeyed hair. His eyes darted down to her slender neck, then to her magnificent breasts, the swells of which were on glorious display.

“Dawn?” he whispered, his voice hoarse.

The girl in question crooked her head sideways. She appraised him for a moment. A slow smile spread over her face.

“And you must be Riley,” Dawn said, making no effort to shift her position, flipping her hair over her head. He saw her raise one of her heels and rub it against her calf, letting a thin bead of sweat trickle down her leg.

“Hi,” Riley said, undoing his tie. “It's.....nice to meet you.”

God it was sweltering in here. Why was it always so damn hot in this wretched house.

“Mmmmm,” Dawn purred, biting her lip a little, as she looked him up and down. “Very nice indeed.”

Riley let out a false, nervous laugh.

Buffy crept towards the kitchen. She couldn't help but peep. She almost let out a derisive snort. Riley was drooling. Pathetic. Men were all the same. Always wanting the new shiny toy.

“You don't mind do you?” Dawn said, pushing off and approaching him. “Me....staying here?”

“N....No,” Riley spluttered. “I have....so many....ideas. About how we could spend time together.”

“I see,” Dawn said, her eyes amused.

“The three of us!” Riley blurted out. “You, me and........”

And for the life of him, Riley couldn't remember his wife's name. It was the heat dammit. It was hot. Way, way, way too hot. And she was close. Too close. Way, way way too close.

“Buffy,” Dawn said, looking past Riley to greet her mother. “I was just saying hello to Riley.”

“Now Dawn,” Buffy said, rolling her eyes. “You know its 'mom and stepdad' to you.”

“Whatever,” Dawn said, rolling her eyes back. “I'm going to my room.”

“I'll see you later,” Dawn said flirtatiously, directing her attention to Riley. “Riley.”

And with that Dawn walked away. Riley's eyes were fixed on that peach of a bottom all the way up the stairs of his home.

“I know what you're thinking,” he heard his wife say.

Uh-oh, Riley thought. His wife had just caught him perving after his stepdaughter. There was going to be hell to pay. He had dare not look at Buffy right now.

“I'm sorry,” she said suddenly, giving Riley a big hug. “I know Dawn isn't exactly what you signed up for.”

Riley frowned. What?

“She's my daughter,” Buffy said. “I guess I always just think of her as my little girl you know.”

“It's okay,” Riley managed to say, squirming inside.

God. If she only knew how okay I really was.

“I want the two of you to spend some time together,” Buffy said. “Get to know each other. You'll do that for me, won't you?”

Riley gulped. Spending time with Dawn was a bad idea and deep down inside he knew it. But it's what his wife wanted.

What type of a husband would I be if I didn't, he argued.

“I will,” he promised. “But only for you.”

“Thank you,” Buffy said, lightly kissing him on the lips.

Thank you indeed, Buffy grinned. For half of everything you're worth Mr Finn.

2 weeks later....

Riley hadn't touched his food. He just stared down at his dinner plate. God, could his life be any worse? She was driving him crazy. It seemed like everytime he turned around, there she was. Wearing her tiny little clothes, staring at him with seductive eyes.
Dawn, Riley thought, his grip tightening on his fork. He stabbed his food, moving it around, but he refused to eat it.

Riley knew it wasn't right. Not even remotely close. He was infatuated by her. Her youth. Her beauty. She seemed so open. Buffy was shy, even reserved. She dressed like a 1950s house wife. He didn't think he'd actually ever even seen her naked. And their sex life wasn't much beyond straight up missionary position with the light off. Speaking of which....Riley shook his head. He hadn't been laid in, what a month? Buffy was always too tired, she wasn't in the mood.

Riley looked at his wife. Buffy was chattering on about
something. A bake sale with the other women of the
neighbourhood or something. Riley wasn't really paying attention.

God, would she ever stop talking? Was she always this annoying?

He snuck a peek at Dawn, who was enjoying her dessert. No, she was practically fellating the dessert spoon. Her eyes screwed shut. Making delicious little sounds.

'Mmmmmm.......tasty......so good.....' Dawn was mumbling, between little licks.

Riley found himself staring at her mouth. Stop, Riley thought.

Don't go there. But it was too late. Riley was already imagining what it would feel like to be taken between those luscious lips.

He couldn't ever imagine Buffy doing that. She had so much class. She was always so proper. But Dawn on the other hand. She was just so eager to please. Her beautiful blue eyes always seeking approval. So very eager...

“God, I swear I could just......”

Riley abruptly slammed his fist down on the table. Too much. It was too much.

“Sorry,” Riley said, apologetically.

God. He was losing his mind.

“Honey?” Buffy said, rubbing his shoulder. “Is everything okay?”

“Fine,” Riley said, a tight smile on his lips. “I'm just......tired. That's all.”

Suddenly, Riley stood, trying very hard not to look at either of them.“I should get to bed. Goodnight.”

And with that he abruptly spun on his heels and left. Buffy gave
Dawn a look that said 'wait for it.' Dawn waited until she heard
the door slam at the top of the stairs.

“What?” Dawn said. “Too much?”

Buffy gave Dawn a patronising look.

“Oh honey,” Buffy sighed. “You have so much to learn about men.”

Dawn rolled her eyes and took another bite of the icecream.

“Seriously,” Dawn said, pointing to the tiny bowl. “This is delish.”

“You'll get fat if you keep eating that,” Buffy said.

“Bite me,” Dawn said, glaring back at her 'mother'.

“You know he's going to be waiting for you,” Dawn remarked.

“Then he'll be waiting a long time,” Buffy said. “Besides, he has
an early morning meeting. I give it a half hour tops.”

“When do I make the move?” Dawn said.

“When the time is right,” Buffy said. “Trust your instincts.”

“My instincts say I want more ice-cream,” Dawn said.

Buffy scowled.

“Don't worry,” Dawn said scowling right back. “I'm going to go throw it all up anyway.”

That weekend......

Riley stood outside his door. He almost didn't come home that night. His wife told him she'd be gone for the weekend. Some charity benefit or something. Which meant that it was just the two of them. Riley had seriously considered going to a hotel. But then that thought made him angry.

It was his house dammit, Riley thought. He was the man. This was his castle. His manor. He was the lord. And it was time he started acting like it. Riley let out an exhale when he found the house empty.

Dawn wasn't home. Good.

Riley threw his leather suitcase onto the couch, then climbed up his stairs and into his bedroom. He took a long hot shower and got into a T-shirt and some pants, then went to the kitchen and
made himself a sandwhich.

When he was making his way back to his room he saw a flicker of light escaping the guest bedroom.

Dammnit, Riley thought. Dawn.

Riley made up his mind. He was going to walk straight past the guest bedroom, get into bed and call his wife. Which is why he didn't understand how he ended up standing in the doorway of Dawn's bedroom. She was lying on her stomach, on the bed. A cellphone camera was in her hand, and she was taking her own picture. Again and again and again. She was flipping onto her back now. Positioning herself against the pillows. Riley just watched, like the voyeur that he was. Until Riley felt a sudden onslaught of guilt.

God, what he was he thinking. She was his step-daughter for christ's sakes!

Riley shook his head, then walked all the way down the hall to his den and got himself a strong brandy.

Dawn turned towards where he'd been standing and let out a frustrated exhale. She picked up her cellphone then dialled Buffy.

“It's time for plan B,” she said. And with that, she disconnected the call. Dawn flung open her wardrobe, running her fingers through all her dresses until she hit upon just the right one. And then she smiled.

Riley sat in his den, nursing his drink. Enjoying the fire that was spreading through his chest. He must have been out of his mind, he decided. But he couldn't let her stay. No, Dawn had to go. Tomorrow. First thing. Riley took another long drink of brandy.

Suddenly, the door flung open. And then she was standing there. Wearing a tight little blue dress that showed a whole lot of cleavage. Her makeup was smoky. She was wearing four inch high heels. A little cross dangled between her chest. Riley was a good man. A believer. The sight of it, settled between her the swell of her breasts inflamed him. He took another long sip.

“I was just heading out,” Dawn said.

“Out?” Riley said, gritting his teeth.

“Yeah,” Dawn said. “Thought I'd hit a few clubs. Take in the night life.”

Dressed like that? Riley poured himself another drink. There was only one reason a woman dressed like that. Why did she have to dress like that? Put herself out there. For anyone to just gape at her. To undress her with his eyes.

“I don't think that's such a good idea,” Riley said.

“Why not?” Dawn said. “Do you have a better idea?”

Riley gripped his glass so hard it almost began to crack in his hand. A few better ideas flashed across his mind. Most of them involving him and Dawn on this table.

“It's just,” Riley began. “We haven't really....talked you know.”

“Oh,” Dawn said. “Well. I guess I could spare a minute.”

Dawn waltzed towards the chair, looking all around the den. Her nimble little fingers touching everywhere she went, Riley noted. Dawn ignored the chair, instead sitting on the side of Riley's desk, dangling her long legs off it.

“Is it hard?” Dawn asked, leaning over slightly to afford Riley a magnificent view of her breasts and the cross nestled safely between them.

Riley's jaw dropped. He had never imagined she'd be so.......brazen.

“Being married,” Dawn said, bouncing up and down a little, inadvertently drawing Riley's attention to her cleavage (or so he thought). “Is it hard?”

“Oh,” Riley said, forcing himself to look away. “Sometimes.”

“It's just,” Dawn said. “I wonder you know. What it would be like.”

“You'll make someone a very happy man someday,” Riley remarked.

As a mistress, Riley thought darkly.

Riley knew that was just his tight ass midwestern upbringing speaking. As much as he'd tried, he couldn't get away from the mores. Where he came from a lady behaved in a certain kind of way. It was all he knew.

“You think so?” Dawn said, fingering the cross in a way that Riley found to be just obscene.

“I know so,” Riley said, forcing himself to smile.

“I know I haven't been here that long,” Dawn said. “But I've already heard tons of stories from Buffy.”

Riley frowned in confusion.

“About you,” Dawn said. “And other women.”

Riley's jaw twitched.

“Those days are over,” Riley said. “Forever.”

A long moment passed between them.

“Right,” Dawn said, stepping off and taking two steps back. Never did she stop stroking the cross between her bosom. Riley couldn't take his eyes off it. Off of her.

“Oh shoot,” Dawn said suddenly, as it snapped off and fell on the plush carpeting, somewhere out of sight. Dawn dropped down on the floor, crawling on her hands and knees to find it. Riley froze as she turned around, putting her pert, heart-shaped ass on display. And when her dress bunched up ever so slightly, Riley saw she wasn't wearing any panties. That seemed to snap something inside of him.

Slut, he thought.

“Let me help you with that,” he heard himself say. As if he were someone else. And then he was on his feet and he was making his way to kneel in front of her.

“Do you see it?” Dawn asked.

“No,” Riley whispered, his lips dry.

Yes, Riley thought. I see it. As clear as day.

They stared at each other for a moment. And then Riley was launching himself at Dawn. His hands were on her face and he was smashing his mouth to hers. Dawn for her part, flailed her hands in the air, protesting into his mouth.

As if she doesn't want it, Riley sneered to himself. Whore

“Riley!” Dawn said, as she fell back, her eyes wide when he grudgingly let go of her.

“Sorry,” Riley said, more out of practiced politeness than any real feeling. “I'm just....things have been so crazy. And I'm just......I'm just...”

Dawn just stood there, watching him explain himself. Until she suddenly jumped into his arms and encircled his waist with her legs. She kissed him this time. As voraciously as he'd been kissing her. Letting him hold her up. Until somehow they were both standing again and breaking apart, both of them apologising
to each other.

“Married,” Riley muttered, pointing to the ring on his finger as he made his way to his desk. As if he were trying to remind himself.

“I'm married.”

“Sorry,” Dawn mumbled, making her way to the door. “I'm sorry.”

“Oh screw it,” Riley swore. He marched to Dawn, grabbing her in a fierce kiss. She wrapped her legs around his waist, holding on as he walked them back to his desk, still kissing.

“Chair,” Dawn mumbled mid-kiss.

Riley plonked down on the chair. Dawn stood up, breaking the kiss. Riley attempted to pull her down, but Dawn swatted away his hands. Instead, she dropped to her knees in front of him.

“Dawn,” Riley gasped. Would she really do this? Want to do this?

“Shhh,” Dawn said. “It'll be our little secret.”

Riley shuddered. Oh god. Why was he so weak? Why was he such a sinner?

“I bet Mommy doesn't even offer to do this,” Dawn said, undoing his belt. “Does she Daddy?”

Riley shook his head. Never. Not once.

“Well,” Dawn said. “I just love blowjobs Daddy.”

Dawn saw Riley's face transform into something nasty.

“I knew it,” Riley said, his face contemptuous, his eyes gleaming with ardour. “I knew you were a little slut.”

Riley enjoyed the shocked look on Dawn's face. As he'd enjoyed the look on the faces of all the escorts he'd hired over the years.
To do things he'd never have asked any of his ex-wives to do.

“My, my” Dawn said, chuckling slightly nervously. “I guess I'm not the only one with a deep dark secret.”

“Enough talk,” Riley said, grabbing Dawn's head a little too forcefully and lowering it so that she was at eye-level with his pants. “I don't want to see anything but my dick in your mouth for the next hour.”

Dawn was taken aback, but only for a moment.

“Then lay back,” Dawn said. “And let your little girl take care of you.”

Riley put his hands over his head and sighed as Dawn began unzipping his pants.

At last, he thought. Some relief. This is exactly what I needed.

“Ouch,” Dawn said suddenly. Riley opened his eyes, frowning.

“My hair!” Dawn said. “It's stuck in your zipper.”

“What?” Riley began. And before Riley could say another word, the door flung open.

“Hi honey,” Buffy said, grinning. “I'm home.”

Riley's eyes widened to comical proportions.

“Buffy,” he squeaked, his voice high and unnatural. It was all

Dawn could do to stifle a giggle.

“Surprised?,” Buffy said.

“I.......” Riley began. “Surprised. Yes. Definitely.”

“I missed you so much I just had to cut the trip short,” Buffy said, approaching him. “Did you miss me?”

“Of....of course,” Riley stuttered. “Very much.”

“I'm glad,” Buffy said, leaning over the front of the table to kiss her husband.

Riley forced himself to rise, straining to meet Buffy's lips with his. Dawn's head seemed to weigh him down though and Riley let out a little grunt. The table let out a slight clunk as Dawn's head hit it.

“Ow,” Dawn whimpered.

Buffy frowned. Riley froze.

“What was that?” she asked, looking around. “Did you hear that?”

“Sounded like an owl,” Riley said.

“An owl?” Buffy said, raising an eyebrow.

“Yeah,” Riley said nervously. “Good old owl. Ow. Ow.”

Riley tried imitating bird noises for a moment, but stopped at the incredulous look his wife gave him.

“You know,” Buffy began, slowly coming around the table. “I know it's been a while for us. But I can't wait to pick up where we left off.”

Riley pushed his chair further under the desk, further cramping Dawn in the already minimal space as Buffy put her hands on his shoulders, kneading them.

“That's great,” Riley said. “That's just great. You know what? I'm just going to finish up here. Why don't you head over to the bedroom.”

“Alone?” Buffy pouted.

“I'll be there in a sex...I mean sec,” Riley corrected himself.

Buffy pondered that for a second. “You better,” she said, backing off.

“I love you,” Riley said, sighing in relief.

“I love you too honey,” Buffy said, blowing him a kiss as she shut the door behind her.

“Get out,” Riley hissed as he sat up, dragging Dawn with him.
“I can't,” she whined. “I'm stuck.”

“Get up,” Riley said, attempting to separate his pants from
Dawn's hair, she'd made sure they were pretty well-stuck together.

“I'm trying,” Dawn whined. “Ow.”

“Get up you stupid bitch!” Riley screamed.

The door flung open.

“Honey. I thought I heard...” Buffy began. And then she gasped. Her eyes widened as she took in the sight. “Dawn!”

“Buffy,” Riley protested. “This.....this isn't what it looks like. Her hair just got stuck in my zipper.”

Buffy clasped her hands over her mouth.

“Two months,” Buffy said, her lips trembling. “We've been married for two months. And with my daughter. You monster.”

“The best two months of my life babe!” Riley swore. “I've never
been happier.”

“You just lost the best thing you ever had,” Buffy swore, taking off her ring and flinging it at him.

“Buffy wait,” Riley said. He attempted to run towards Buffy and fell over comically, taking Dawn with him.

“Wow,” Dawn said. “She seems pissed.”

1 month later....

“My client has agreed to settle for a one time cash payment,”
Buffy's lawyer began. “Of 500,000 dollars.”

“For two months?” Riley's lawyer protested.

“Do I have to remind you of the irreparable psychological damage my client suffered to her self esteem?” Buffy's lawyer said, fixing
Riley with a stare. “Oh and she keeps the Mercedes.”

“Bullshit,” Riley snarled. “I love that car.”

“We could drag this before a judge Riley,” Buffy said. “See what he makes of your....proclivities. It would also put your business under scrutiny. All those deals. All those payoffs.”

For the first time, Riley's shoulders slumped. “Give her what she wants,” he instructed his lawyer.

Buffy exchanged her look with her own counsel, then rose from her chair and left the room. She was already running late. She had to meet Dawn for a celebratory lunch.

“I can't believe you wore the blue dress,” Buffy chided Dawn. “I distinctly remember telling you to wear the black one.”

“It worked didn't it?” Dawn snipped.

“You were lucky,” Buffy said dismissively.

“I was good,” Dawn said, chomping down on a piece of steak.

“Do you have any idea what that's doing to your arteries?” Buffy said.

“Haven't you heard. Cigarettes dissolve cholesterol,” Dawn said, blowing smoke in Buffy's face, who made a disgusted face.

“So how did we do?” Dawn couldn't help but ask.

“Two million,” Buffy grinned. “And I think we'll make way more in
our next one. I have my eye on this guy in....”

“Whoa,” Dawn said. “Our next one? Don't you remember our deal? There is no next one. This was it. Time for me to fly solo.”

“Oh here we go,” Buffy mumbled, shaking her head.

“It's happening,” Dawn said. “Embrace it. Accept it. If you love someone....”

“Poison them in their sleep,” Buffy finished.

“Let them go,” Dawn said.

“Same difference,” Buffy shrugged.

“I'm old enough to be on my own!” Dawn said.

“Oh honey,” Buffy said. “You have no idea what it's like to be all alone.”

“Here we go,” Dawn muttered, rolling her eyes. She knew it was coming. The speech.

“I'll tell you exactly what's going to happen,” Buffy said, studiously ignoring the fact that Dawn was mouthing the same words along with her.

“You'll go off. You'll get lonely. Some moron hunk will come along and you'll think it's true love. And then bam! He'll leave and then it's my life all over again,” Buffy finished, with a triumphant wave of her napkin.

“I'm not stupid,” Dawn whined, wilting under the stern look Buffy gave her.

“You know what I mean,” Dawn protested.

“You're right,” Buffy said. “I was stupid. And it left me. Scared and broken and alone. If Barbara hadn't taken me in and shown me how to con....”

“And you taught me!” Dawn exclaimed. “Ok? I'll be fine.”

Buffy stared at Dawn for a long time.

“Okay,” Buffy said finally. “If you've made up your mind. Let's divide everything up.”

Buffy waved at the waiter to bring the cheque, as she and Dawn got to their feet.

“Great,” Dawn said, grinning. “Now what's the best way to get a room?”

“I was thinking something traditional,” Buffy said. “The Flopper diver.”

“No way,” Dawn began, as they walked towards the washroom. “I'm not going to....”

And Buffy stuck her leg between Dawn's feet, tripping her.
Dawn crashed to the floor with a heavy thud.

“Oh my god,” Buffy shrieked, histrionically. “She's cracked her head open.”

That got the attention of quite a few patrons, including the worried-looking manager.

“Oh darling!” Buffy exclaimed, pretending to nurse Dawn. “Don't move. You may be paralyzed.”

Dawn at this point, had no choice but to go with it, rolling her eyes into the back of her head.

“Call a doctor,” Buffy said.

“I'm sure she'll be fine,” the manager said, licking his lips nervously and wiping a thin film of sweat from his bow and giving the women a gap-toothed smile. “Please let me know if there's anything we can do.”

Bingo, Buffy thought.

A half hour later, the manager was seeing them to their room.

“Now, since we seem to have lost your reservation we can only let you have this suite for one......”

Dawn let out a little shriek, holding her head and collapsing on the couch.

“Week,” the manager finished, looking utterly defeated.

“Thank you,” Buffy said, with a smile that was as sweet as poison. “Could you please let us rest now?”

As soon as he was gone, Dawn sat up and threw a cushion at Buffy's head.

“Hey,” Buffy protested, as the object bounced off her head. And suddenly, Buffy found herself being assaulted. With a soft, plush cushion.

“Don't. You. Ever. Flop. Me. Without. My consent,” Dawn said, punctuating each word with a thwack to Buffy's head.

“Get off me!” Buffy said, tearing the pillow out of Dawn's hand and flinging it away. “God! It had to look real.”

Buffy took a moment to collect herself, smoothening her hair.

“Besides. You fall lousy when you know it's coming,” Buffy snipped.

“I fall fine,” Dawn seethed.

“Of course you do sweetie,” Buffy said, fixing Dawn with a pitying stare and shaking her head. “Come on. Let's divvy it up.”

Dawn rubbed her hands together.

“So,” she began. “How did we do?”

“After expenses?” Buffy began. “350 grand.”

Dawn's face fell.

“Each,” Buffy added.

Dawn let out a little scream of joy.

“So what are you going to do with your share?” Buffy asked.

“I'm going to Boca for the next year,” Dawn said, doing a little shimmy. “Maybe I'll buy a nice little restaurant down there. Hook up with a guy called Emilio who doesn't speak a word of English.”

“You could do that,” Buffy said. “Or.....”

“Or?” Dawn asked.

“Or we could pull one final score. And never have to worry about working a day in our lives again.”

Dawn tried to resist. But she utterly failed.

“You have a plan?” Dawn asked.

“Always,” Buffy said. “But it involves taking a little trip. And I don't mean Boca.”

“Are you in?” Buffy asked.

Dawn sighed.

“I'm in,” Dawn said.

One week later.....

“Why are we in Florida?” Dawn asked. “And why is it so damn hot?”

“Relax,” Buffy said. “Look around.”

“I don't see anything but old farts,” Dawn said, looking around the hotel restaurant.

“You look,” Buffy said. “But you don't see.”

“Okay Sherlock,” Dawn said dryly. “Tell me. What do you see?”

“I see jackpots just waiting to happen,” Buffy said. “That man for example. By the water fountain.”

Dawn looked over

“Don't look!” Buffy hissed, jerking on Dawn's shoulder so hard it nearly popped out of the socket.

“You told me he was by the water fountain!” Dawn countered, rubbing her arm.

“He's on my list. Willard something. A multi-billionaire dealing in IPOs or EPA's or..... something. Still haven't quite figured out that part yet.”

Dawn looked this time. Out of the corner of her eye.

He looked to be around 35 years old. Bespectacled. Hunched over. He certainly didn't look like a billionaire. Nor did he dress like one. And he was reading a book.

“Nerd alert,” Dawn said. “Which is good.”

“Exactly,” Buffy smiled. “But.....there's a problem.”

“I don't see a problem,” Dawn said. “We're two smoking hot girls. I think we can handle one nerd Buffy.”

“Wait for it,” Buffy said.

“Mother!” the man exclaimed.

“Wilbert,” a kindly looking woman said. Dawn noticed a look flash across Buffy's face. One that she was unused to seeing. The slightest hint of sadness. Dawn looked back at the woman. The resemblance was faint. She had to squint to make it out.

“I missed you mother,” the man said, rising and hugging her.

“She lives with him,” Buffy sighed. “Mama's boy.”

“Tragic,” Dawn said. “But we can take him.”

“Nah,” Buffy said. “Forget him. Mothers are death.”

“Tell me about it,” Dawn said. “Can't argue with that.”

“Come on,” Buffy said. “Let's go see the others on my list.”
Buffy passed Dawn the binoculars.

“David Crenshaw,” Buffy said, pointing to a boat. “Not as rich.
Only 700 million. He owns an e-commerce website. Marriage number 3 just ended....”

“We can make that work,” Dawn said. “Downside?”

“Big on the ironclad prenups,” Buffy said. “And as you can see....the competition is fierce.”

For the first time Dawn noted all the hot, young women who were on the boat, sunning themselves.

“Again. We can take them.”

“We'd have to be into a group thing,” Buffy said.

“Menage a troi?” Dawn asked.

“And you'd be fine with that?” Buffy asked. This time, it was her eyebrows' turn to rise so high they were almost off her forhead.

“For 700 million dollars,” Dawn said. “I'd sleep with your mother.”

“Ugh,” Buffy said. “How about a menage e cinq?”

Dawn considered it.

“Pass,” she said, finally. “A girl has to know when to fold. You taught me that.”

“And last,” Buffy began. “And certainly the least...”

“Wow,” Dawn said. “Is that....”

“Rupert Giles,” Buffy said.

“Of Giles tobbaco?” Dawn asked. “That's old money.”

“Also just plain old,” Buffy said, wistfully.

“How much?” Dawn asked.

“A couple of billion. Give or take.”

Dawn considered it. “I don't know Buffy,” she began. “I guess I'm just not into necrophilia.”

“The older the better Dawn,” Bufffy said. “With any luck he'll die right after the wedding. And then you're rolling around in widow money.”

“I'm not kissing that,” Dawn said.

“I'd have to kiss that a lot more than you,” Buffy protested.

“Why can't we pick up someone who's kind of cute?” Dawn asked. “Will....whatever is kind of cute.”

“Xander was kinda cute...” she mumbled.

“Cute is dangerous,” Buffy reminded her. “Cute leads to feelings. Which leads to screwing. Which leads to...”

“Screwed,” Dawn finished. “I know. I know.”

“So,” Buffy said. “We agree?”

“I guess so,” Dawn said.

“Giles it is,” Buffy began.

“Willard,” Dawn said at the same time.

“Giles,” Buffy said.

“Willard,” Dawn repeated.

“Dawn!” Buffy said. “Did you not hear what I just said?”

“We can make Will...whatever and his mom work for us,” Dawn insisted. “Mothers love me!”

“Mothers hate you!” Buffy said.

“Well...” Dawn said. “Daughters hate you!”

And to make her point she stuck her tongue out at Buffy.

“We're going with Giles,” Buffy said. “And that's that.”

“That is not that,” Dawn said. “We both have to agree.”

“If you want to go with Giles, go with Giles,” Dawn said.

“I'm working Will.....whatever,” Dawn said.

“You don't even know his name!” Buffy said.

“You just want to be the primary,” Dawn said. “Admit it.”

“That has nothing to do with it,” Buffy said. “Besides, its my turn.”

“It is not!” Dawn said hotly.

“Is too,” Buffy said.

“You were the primary with Riley!” Dawn protested.

Buffy paused a moment, as she realised Dawn was right.

“You aren't ready to be the primary,” Buffy said, trying another tack. “Not on an operation at this level.”

“I can make men do whatever I want,” Dawn huffed.

“Boys,” Buffy said. “You can make boys do whatever you want.”

“Gas station workers. Bartenders. Migrant workers. That's child's play Dawn. Getting someone to marry you in two months...”

“You used to be able to get it done in one,” Dawn said. Snidely

“Excuse me?” Buffy said.

“I'm just saying,” Dawn said, throwing up her hands.

“That I'm slipping? That I'm losing it? That I'm getting old!” Buffy said, her voice rising.

“I didn't say that,” Dawns said. Unconvincingly. Purposefully so

“I'm in great shape,” Buffy fumed. “Better than ever.”

“Uh-huh,” Dawn said.

“Feel my butt,” Buffy dared.

“I am not going to feel your butt,” Dawn said.

“How about if I offer you 700 million dollars?” Buffy sniped.

“I'll tell you what,” Dawn said. “Let's play for it.”

“Great,” Buffy said. “Winner picks the mark?”

Dawn nodded.

“Let's cut cards,” Buffy said, rubbing her hands together.

Dawn snorted. “Like I'm gonna trust your cards.”

“So,” Buffy said. “How do we do it?”

Dawn thought about it.

“Let's let fate decide,” Dawn said.

“Excuse me?” Buffy said. “Fate? What are you, Ms Cleo?”

“First guy to leave the restaurant gets a free pass,” Dawn said.

“Deal?”

Buffy saw her victim smoking a long cigar. She noted how
Dawn's chosen victim had settled back into his book as his mother sipped tea.

“Deal,” Buffy said. Giles didn't look like he was going anywhere.

She figured Willard and his mother would leave soon. As soon as Buffy had the thought, Giles put down his cigar, stubbed it out, gathered his hat and left.

“Nooooooooooooooo!” Buffy hissed.

Dawn pumped her fists.

“I win,” Dawn said. “Bye bye old man. Hello cutie.”

“Fine,” Buffy said gritting her teeth. “But I'm still the primary.”

“Oh come on,” Dawn whined. “He's like 30. And you're.....”

Buffy cocked her head, daring Dawn to say another word.

“You're....younger than 30. A lot younger than 30,” Dawn said. “Way younger. Like way way way way....”

“Keep it up and you won't live to see 30,” Buffy said.

She cocked her head to one side and sighed, as she surveyed their victim.

“Come on,” Buffy said. “Let's go prep.”

“Yes mother,” Dawn said, in a mocking tone, then followd her out of the room.